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A 40–100 MHz phase-locked loop frequency synthesizer with built-in self-test
(2012) Yankey, Jephthah
The Phase locked loop (PLL) is one of the most important devices in modern electronic systems. PLLs are widely used for clock generation or frequency synthesis in communication systems, computers, radio and other electronic applications. However, due to the use of expensive external equipment and amount of time involved, traditional VLSI testing methods are inefficient for testing of PLLs. In this thesis, a fully functional PLL frequency synthesizer which operates from 40MHz to 100MHz is designed. The designed PLL exhibits phase noise of -71dBc/Hz at 1kHz, which is low enough for a wide array of applications. To solve the testing problem, Built-In Self-Test (BIST) is employed. A BIST scheme based on a defect-oriented method of testing is proposed. A prototype adds BIST circuitry, a good part of which is derived from existing components of the original design. The PLL BIST scheme is generic and hence portable to similar PLL designs. One significant addition unit is a simple response collector that combines shifting and counting functionalities. The entire system is designed in a typical CMOS process using a 3V power supply which is commonly found in today’s portable products. Spectre® simulations of the PLL show that it is capable of synthesizing any frequency between 40 and 100MHz within a reasonably short acquisition time. The output waveform of the generated signal is clean and shows no spikes whatsoever. Experimental simulations also reveal that the BIST circuitry is capable of generating the exact test pattern needed. It also performs efficiently all the unique checks which make up the PLL BIST. The final test output is very consistent and produces the same results for a number of different runs of the simulation.
A Comparative Analysis Of Network Performances Of Ethernet, Token Ring And Fddi Protocols In Distributed Systems
(KNUST, 2018-06) Ayatey, Perfect Aku
Internet connectivity is growing with most enterprises shifting to the use of web-based services to satisfy the demands of clients in their organisations. The choice of suitable LAN protocols in network design is of great concern to individuals and organisations. Failure to make the right choice can lead to poor network performances that lower the speed to access information. How can organizations' LAN performances be improved? How fast is data or information transmitted to and from business organization? This research work was carried out to investigate a comparative analysis of network performances of Ethernet, Token Ring and FDDI protocols in terms of throughput and delay in a distributed system. In the study, three LAN protocols; Ethernet, FDDI and Token Ring were modelled and devices within the network were configured using Cisco Packet Tracer Version 7.1 to evaluate their network performances. Varied packet sizes were sent from one station to another workstation on each of the scenarios created. The simulation exercise was conducted after which the time it takes for a machine to receive a packet and sending machine to receive an acknowledgement is recorded and evaluated. The difference between the times a packet was sent from machine to another and the time to take acknowledgement of receipt of the packet was computed as delay. Several scenarios were evaluated through simulations using Cisco Packet Tracer Version 7.1 to show network performances of the three networks. The simulation was done 10 times each for the different scenarios using FTP and SMTP application of a constant packet sizes with varied time and vice versa. The time was recorded as well as averages computed. The general conclusion is that based on the perfomance metrics; delay and throughput used in the study, FDDI recorded the least values of throughput and delay in most of the scenarios according to the tables and figures. FDDI therefore have better network performance than Token Ring and Ethernet.
A comparative analysis of the effect of employees’ commitment on organisational performance (a case study of some selected private and public banks in Kumasi).
(KNUST, 2016-11) Kyei, Elvis
The world is in a dilemma as to the disparities in commitment among the private and the public sector. It is premised upon this backdrop that the study was conducted to undertake a comparative analysis of what determines employees commitment to work and its effect on organizational performance among the private and the public sector. The objectives of the study were to identify any difference in employees’ commitment between public and private sector employees and to assess the effect of employees’ commitment on organizational performance. The literature review looked at the types of commitment, commitment and work behaviour, organisational actions that encourage commitment and drivers of employee commitment as well as job satisfaction. A simple random sampling method was used to select a sample size of 100 in the administration of questionnaires. Primary Data was gathered through the administration of questionnaires from employees. Data collected was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The study found that there exists a statistically significant difference between the commitment of employees in public and private institutions. The study further revealed that there exist a positive but statistically significant elationship between employee commitment and organisational performance. Further, the study found that there exists a strong, positive and statistically significant relationship between employee satisfaction, employee commitment and organisational performance as well as job satisfaction. It was recommended performance based reward system be put in place to replace the current salary structure to encourage commitment among employees. Also, targets should be set for employees so that commitment can be channeled towards meeting targets. Lastly, intrinsic motivational factors should be implemented to boost employee self-motivation.
A Comparative Study Of Different Laboratory Storage Conditions And Dna Extraction Methods For Enhanced Forensic Analysis Of Soil-Human Blood Mixed Sample
(KNUST, 2018-06) Alexander Badu-Boateng
Crime scene investigation is an important step in the entire criminal investigation process because this is where evidence is gathered. Blood from the perpetrator or victim of a crime can be left at crime scenes or transferred to other materials such as clothing, knives and guns. Most often, this body fluid is contaminated with soil at outdoor crime scenes but this might be the only or the most important evidence in solving a crime. This study aimed at identifying the most appropriate method of storing crime scene soil-human blood mixed sample prior to analysis. The best DNA extraction method for this soil-blood mixed sample was also studied. Three commercial DNA extraction kits (PrepFiler Forensic DNA Extraction kit, Promega DNA IQ Kit, Blood Miniprep kit) that have been claimed by the manufacturers to be effective in extracting DNA from soil contaminated samples were used for the DNA extractions. Hemastix and Hexagon OBTI kits were used for the serological analysis in this study. Human blood was mixed with soil and stored at three different storage conditions (i.e., Room temperature/25℃, 4℃ and 20℃). Hemastix and Hexagon OBTI serological tests for blood and human blood, respectively were positive for soil-blood mixed samples at all storage conditions throughout the 12 week study period. Samples stored at room temperature saw significant reduction in DNA concentration as storage time increased (P=0.001 and 0.0055 for Prepfiler and DNA IQ extractions, respectively). Samples stored at 4℃ saw a drastic decrease in DNA concentration just after two weeks of storage. By the eighth week of storage at 4℃, there was no detectable DNA (P=0.000 for all extraction methods). Samples stored at -20℃ recorded no specific pattern in decrease or increase in DNA concentration for the entire 12 week storage (P=0.324 and 0.161 for PrepFiler and DNA IQ extractions respectively). The PrepFiler kit yielded more DNA than the DNA IQ and Blood Miniprep kits at all storage conditions with no significant difference between PrepFiler and DNA IQ (P=0.603). The PrepFiler kit and DNA IQ kit were successful at removing possible PCR inhibitors from the soil during DNA extraction with no significant difference (p=0.887). The Blood Miniprep kit performed poor in terms of removing possible PCR inhibitors. There were full STR Profiles generated for room temperature stored samples and -20℃ stored samples extracted with PrepFiler and DNA IQ kits throughout the study. There were no allele recorded for room temperature stored samples and -20℃ stored samples extracted with Blood Miniprep kit. There were full, partial and null Profiles generated for 4℃ stored samples extracted with PrepFiler and DNA IQ kits depending on the sample storage duration. There were no alleles recorded for 4℃ stored samples extracted with Blood Miniprep kit. In conclusion, the -20℃ and PrepFiler Forensic DNA extraction kit were identified as the best storage condition and extraction method, respectively.
A comparative study of the working capital policies of Goil and total company limited, Ghana.
(KNUST, 2016-08) TUTU, VIVIAN OSEI
The study mainly aimed at investigating the trend of inventory conversion period, receivables conversion period, payables deferral period, cash conversion cycle as a measure of working capital management and the working capital management strategy being followed by GOIL and Total Petroleum Ghana. The study mainly used secondary source of data studying the financial statements for a five year period from 2011-2015. The study revealed that GOIL had an average inventory conversion period of 5.76 days with receivables conversion period of 40.78 days. The payables deferral period was 53.87 days. Total Petroleum Ghana also had 4.36 days, 42.78 days and 53.15 days respectively for inventory, receivables and payables conversion periods. A negative cash conversion cycle was recorded both GOIL and Total Petroleum Ghana. The main types of products offered by GOIL are fuels and special products. Total Petroleum Ghana offers these same products apart from liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). The main customers of the companies were identified as dealers, consumers and resellers while the main suppliers are TOR, chase petroleum and Cyrus. The average current asset to total assets ratio for GOIL was 0.65 while that of Total Petroleum Ghana was 0.68.The current liability to total assets ratio was averagely 0.70 for GOIL whilst that of Total Petroleum Ghana was 0.68. Total Petroleum Ghana pursued a conservative and aggressive (mixed) working capital management policy (investment and financing respectively) due to its percentage of commitment of current assets and current liabilities to total assets. Similarly, GOIL pursue same strategies in terms of financing and investment policies but slightly ahead of Total. There are significant differences in the cash conversion cycles of two companies. However, there are no significant differences in the working capital management strategy or policy pursued by the two oil marketing companies listed on the stock exchange. The study recommended that the companies reduce the payables deferral periods in order to enjoy some trade discounts. Again, future research should look at more than one company for a longer period of time so that a regression analysis conducted to determine the effect of working capital management on profitability of firms.
A Framework for setting up effective procurement units in the MMDA, Ghana.
(KNUST, 2018-05) Sitsofe Kwame Yevu
Procurement in the public sector has garnered sufficient attention in public sector due to its magnitude on a country’s economic expenditure and this has led to attempts by stakeholders to drive efforts at making it effective. In Ghana, public procurement has been improved with the formulation of procurement laws and regulations which were recently reformed. The reform produced the Public Procurement Amendment which stipulated the formation of procurement units within the public entity to cater for the organizations procurement operations. The formation of procurement units is a good management strategy but the absence of guideline for setting up procurement units for it to be effective may cause the procurement unit to fail in its operations. The research study sought to answer the question of what factors are needed in setting up procurement units. This leads to the development of aim of the study thus developing a guideline for setting up effective procurement units in the MMDA in Ghana. To attain this aim three objectives were formulated and a mixed methodology approach was adopted in two stages. A review of germane literature was initially conducted to identify the factors required for procurement units to be effective. The first stage involved interviewing experts in public procurement which were purposively selected concerning information gathered from literature and were consequently used to guide the questionnaire for the survey at the second stage. The questionnaire were distributed to MMDAs in Ghana which were subsequently analysed using the confirmatory factor analysis, exploratory factor analysis, mean index score and one sample t-test. The first objective sought to identify the factors for setting up effective procurement units. The confirmatory factor analysis and the mean index score was used to identify the dynamics of the procurement structure with high levels of specialization, configuration and hybrid (de)centralization and this indicated that the procurement unit size should be large to accommodate its operations. Exploratory factor analysis using principal component analysis was used to identify the key requirements needed for setting up effective procurement units thus resource and operations management requirement, top management requirement, organizational structure alignment requirement and procurement law and regulations requirement. The second objective sought to identify the factors that influence the performance of the procurement units. The one sample t-test was used to produce eleven factors that influence the procurement units in public organizations. Subsequently the success factors needed for the procurement units to be successful and effective in the public entity were also identified using one sample t-test. To attain the third objective, a framework was developed using the findings from the study to provide a clearer view of these factors and their influence on the procurement units. Further studies is suggested in the areas of assessing the impact of these requirements on the performance of these procurement units.
A Macro-Micro Analysis of Stigma in Buruli Ulcer and Yaws in the Atwima Mponua District of Ghana
(KNUST, 2023-01) Tuwor, Ruth Dede
Stigma related to Neglected Tropical Diseases has been a global concern for several decades now. Notwithstanding, it has remained an issue, contributing to poorer health outcomes and posing a significant psychosocial burden on patients and their care-givers. However, studies have remained sparse and aimed at investigating stigma in selected singular diseases within limited social contexts. This study therefore aimed to holistically explore stigma associated with buruli ulcer and yaws. A concurrent mixed methods design was adopted. Three-hundred and eighty-four (384) community members from 16 communities within the Atwima Mponua district were surveyed to understand community knowledge, beliefs and attitudes reinforcing stigma. Additionally, in-depth interviews were conducted for 31 past and active buruli ulcer and yaws patients to explore the experiences, effects and coping strategies they used in managing stigma. Misconceptions in community knowledge were associated with stigmatizing attitudes towards patients. Levels and types of stigma however, varied between buruli ulcer and yaws. Common manifestations of stigma were exclusion from group participation, name-calling, teasing, discrimination and avoidance. Stigma experiences led to negative effects including psychosocial burden, academic underachievement and strained social relationships between affected people and social groups. However, increased health seeking behavior was also recorded as patients sought to overcome disease stigma attaining cure. However, patients coped with stigma through problem focused (concealment, confrontation, selective disclosure and information management) and emotion-focused strategies (religion and self-isolation), which contributed to mental health suffering among patients Education is required to increase community knowledge and awareness of skin NTDs. There is the need to incorporate and strengthen psychosocial measures in the management of affected persons
A Modal Approach To Price An Option In Continuous Time
(KNUST, 2018) Osei Antwi
Average value options or Asian options have been priced using geometric and arithmetic averages of the underlying asset. However, these methods do not give accurate results especially in very low volatility regimes. In this study, we develop a new option pricing model based on the modal average of the underlying asset to price options. Using data from the NASDAQ in the United States of America we use the proposed model to price options sold on some stocks listed on the exchanges using software. The results consistently showed that for volatilities less than 3% of the underlying asset, the modal average option pricing model gives a better option price when compared to existing average option pricing models. Moreover, the modal average consistently does better at all levels of volatility when compared to the Black-Scholes model. We further proved analytically that the modal average model indeed does better than the geometric or arithmetic average models especially for low volatility stocks.
A Model for the Development of Tender Price Indices in the Ghanaian Building Industry
(KNUST, 2017-11-01) Kissi Ernest
The pricing of construction resources has remained a critical challenge to project stakeholders for decades and the situation has exacerbated in recent times due to various economic recessions and fluctuations in both developed and developing countries. However, the quest of gaining value for money is hinged on an effective and efficient pricing regime. In Ghana, many project disputes can be attributed to ineffective pricing strategies that are not based on realistic data. Over the years, historical data have been perceived by researchers and practitioners as an effective basis for pricing of future projects. Although, historical data have been developed into various indices that are used in updating cost, cost planning, fluctuation analysis among others in developed countries such as United State of America (USA), United Kingdom (UK), Hong Kong, Finland, South Africa, developing countries such as Ghana are yet to take advantage of such a development. In addition, construction professionals in Ghana are faced with the challenge of determining the initial cost of projects at the early design stages due to lack of effective indices for such analysis. The motivation for this research is to develop a model for the development of tender price indices (TPI) that would facilitate easy and early prediction of the initial cost of building projects. Thus, the specific objectives of this study were to: determine the critical barriers to tender price indices development; key determinants that account for tender pricing; develop tender price indices; determine the effect of economic indicators on tender price indices and to develop a model for predicting the tender price indices. The research made use of mix method; both qualitative and quantitative methods. Through Principal Component Analysis (PCA), five factors were generated as critical barriers to tender price indices development; poor procurement and estimating, erratic external and project conditions, data unavailability, technological implications and weak knowledge base. The study used Partial Least Square-Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) which enabled the establishment of the relationship between tender price and tender price indices. Based on a conceptual framework, economic indicators that have effect on TPI were analysed using multiple regression analysis, which highlighted three significant indicators including Producer Price Index, Exchange Rate and Interest Rate. Further analysis which involved the use of excel spreadsheet in conjunction with the Laspeyres formulae helped in the development of Tender Price Indices and was later validated using fifteen projects. The validation of indices revealed that a margin of error (± 3%) and a deviation (5.32%) must be considered in its application. Subsequently, a model was developed using Autoregressive Integrated Moving-Average with Exogenous variables (ARIMAX) for continuous prediction. Generally, this study has shown the need to employ effective and efficient pricing systems in the Ghanaian building industry by developing an index which will facilitate the estimating of the initial cost of building projects. In addition, it has determined the barriers to TPI development and determinants that account for pricing which will contribute to construction management knowledge both in practice and theory. Furthermore, the study has therefore activated the need for policy makers and building industry professionals to take a critical look at pricing building projects due to the wider implications it has on the national economy and development. Notwithstanding the immense contribution the study makes to both practice and theory, the study is circumscribed by excluding prime cost and provisional sums. Lastly, the model will serve as a guide to practitioners in predicting prices of tenders. It is therefore recommended that further studies should be conducted to include both the prime cost and provisional sums. In addition, the study employed non-residential educational buildings in the development of the TPI. Hence, it is suggested that further studies should consider other types of buildings such as residential and commercial.
A principal component analysis on marketing 2.0 on business performance in ghana
(KNUST, 2023) Mensah-Aboagye Aaron
. The study analysed the impact of marketing 2.0 on business performance in Ghana. Marketing 2.0 has become an integral part of most business' communication strategies, and for a long time, marketing had been mainly focused on the traditional aspect, but has since adapted to ii new contexts such as online platforms, with the emergence of user generated content. Again, marketing 2.0, which involves interactive communication between consumers and businesses. Many supermarkets perceive social media as unprofitable, as they are unaware of its benefits in terms of customer relations and ROI. The study focused on a Principal Component Analysis of marketing 2.0 and its effect on business performance in Ghana. Questionnaires (Likert scale questionnaire was used for data collection) would be employed. Secondary data would be retrieved from journals and scientific reports, articles, academic papers. Data gathered was presented in tables and bar charts using Business Management Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 26 for hypothesis testing, correlation analysis, and regression analysis. Data was collected from 240 workers of Nestle Ghana Limited - Accra Metropolis. Convenience sampling method was used to select the respondents. Data was analysed quantitatively. The results revealed that there is very strong positive correlation between marketing 2.0 and supermarket performance. The correlation values were 0.00 denoting statistically significant relationship as marketing 2.0 is the latest trend in marketing that focuses on leveraging digital and social media platforms to reach customers and drive sales. It involves using a customercentric approach to engage with customers, personalizing content and messaging, and leveraging data to create more effective campaigns. Therefore, it was recommended that researching on how digital technologies can be used to boost supermarket performance is essential as technology develops further and new digital solutions become accessible. Key The study analysed the impact of marketing 2.0 on business performance in Ghana. Marketing 2.0 has become an integral part of most business' communication strategies, and for a long time, marketing had been mainly focused on the traditional aspect, but has since adapted to ii new contexts such as online platforms, with the emergence of user generated content. Again, marketing 2.0, which involves interactive communication between consumers and businesses. Many supermarkets perceive social media as unprofitable, as they are unaware of its benefits in terms of customer relations and ROI. The study focused on a Principal Component Analysis of marketing 2.0 and its effect on business performance in Ghana. Questionnaires (Likert scale questionnaire was used for data collection) would be employed. Secondary data would be retrieved from journals and scientific reports, articles, academic papers. Data gathered was presented in tables and bar charts using Business Management Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 26 for hypothesis testing, correlation analysis, and regression analysis. Data was collected from 240 workers of Nestle Ghana Limited - Accra Metropolis. Convenience sampling method was used to select the respondents. Data was analysed quantitatively. The results revealed that there is very strong positive correlation between marketing 2.0 and supermarket performance. The correlation values were 0.00 denoting statistically significant relationship as marketing 2.0 is the latest trend in marketing that focuses on leveraging digital and social media platforms to reach customers and drive sales. It involves using a customercentric approach to engage with customers, personalizing content and messaging, and leveraging data to create more effective campaigns. Therefore, it was recommended that researching on how digital technologies can be used to boost supermarket performance is essential as technology develops further and new digital solutions become accessible.
A principal component analysis on marketing 2.0 on business performance in ghana
(KNUST, 2023) Mensah Aaron Aboagye
The study analyzed the impact of marketing 2.0 on business performance in Ghana. Marketing 2.0 has become an integral part of most business' communication strategies, and for a long time, marketing had been mainly focused on the traditional aspect, but has since adapted to ii new contexts such as online platforms, with the emergence of user generated content. Again, marketing 2.0, which involves interactive communication between consumers and businesses. Many supermarkets perceive social media as unprofitable, as they are unaware of its benefits in terms of customer relations and roi. The study focused on a principal component analysis of marketing 2.0 and its effect on business performance in Ghana. Questionnaires (likert scale questionnaire was used for data collection) would be employed. Secondary data would be retrieved from journals and scientific reports, articles, academic papers. Data gathered was presented in tables and bar charts using business management statistical package for social sciences version 26 for hypothesis testing, correlation analysis, and regression analysis. Data was collected from 240 workers of nestle Ghana limited - Accra metropolis. Convenience sampling method was used to select the respondents. Data was analyzed quantitatively. The results revealed that there is very strong positive correlation between marketing 2.0 and supermarket performance. The correlation values were 0.00 denoting statistically significant relationship as marketing 2.0 is the latest trend in marketing that focuses on leveraging digital and social media platforms to reach customers and drive sales. It involves using a customercentric approach to engage with customers, personalizing content and messaging, and leveraging data to create more effective campaigns. Therefore, it was recommended that researching on how digital technologies can be used to boost supermarket performance is essential as technology develops further and new digital solutions become accessible. Keywords: marketing 2.0, business performance, social media marketing
A Proposed Framework / System For Online Assessment Of Students On Industrial Attachment Program In Technical And Vocational Institutions In Ghana: A Case Study Of Cape Coast Technical Institute.
(KNUST, 2018-08) Eyram Donne Kuenyehia
Assessment is a vital part of every institution, be it formal or non-formal. Students, teachers and education authorities rely on assessment to take important decisions concerning the grades and possible future of their students. Technical and Vocational Institutions as part of their curriculum engage in Supervised Industrial Attachment (SIA) programme for students. This Supervised Industrial Attachment (SIA) programme helps to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to buttress what they learnt at school. It also gives them the opportunity to practice on the field of work and to prepare them for the work environment. Students on Industrial Attachment are assessed on their performance in the various Industries where they are attached to. This research analyses the processes involved in the assessment of students on Supervised Industrial Attachment (SIA), and proposes ways to improve these assessment processes to make it more effective, efficient, well-structured and secured by means of an easily accessible electronic system that runs on all android systems. A survey was carried out with questionnaires in order to elicit from users their views, experience, and short comings of the current manual system of assessing students on industrial attachment the challenges faced with that system and the need for a new improved online computerized system which is a more efficient system and what the requirements of this proposed system should be. Some limitations of the current system of assessment from the survey showed that student’s assessment report can easily get lost or damaged, student can manipulate their assessment reports, and these reports sometimes get to their institution late. There is also the case of inadequate record or lack of records on industrial attachment of previous years in the institutions. The outcome of the survey focused on students, teachers, operational managers of some Industries in Ghana, some privately-owned construction companies and tailoring shops all in Cape Coast. The outcome of the survey revealed that most of these teachers, students and operational managers would rather prefer an online electronic computerized system to the currently used paper based manual system, which is secure, fast, convenient and easily accessible. From the survey conducted, most of these teachers, students and operational managers have the basic knowledge in Information Technology needed to use such an online system, they all have access to internet and computers in their various institutions needed to connect to the proposed system’s platform and fill out attachment assessment details and overall attachment assessment marks for the students. These marks can be accessible by both the student’s institution and the industries’ operational managers. Based on these findings a prototype of the electronic / online industrial attachment assessment system was proposed, designed and developed. There are few recommendations such as; Industrial attachment supervisors should be given inservice training on how to train students and assess them on industrial attachment, student’s marks from industrial attachment should be part of the term’s academic report, the online application be explored further to encompass all institutions that run industrial attachment program. Educational institutions and ICT industries also have the opportunity to improve the system and incorporate other modules that might be needed in educational and employment industry. Furthermore, mobile friendly versions of this online assessment system can be developed as future work.
A Proposed Framework For Interoperability Of Electronic Health Record Systems In Ghana
(KNUST, 2018-06) Anthony Kobina Emil Jnr
Electronic Health Record Systems (EHR’s) plays a major role in today’s health care delivery. Problems associated with patients’ records scattered across many different health facilities have become enormous. It has therefore become very necessary that these Electronic Health Records systemsare interoperable. This would enable health care providers to have comprehensive records about their patients in order to provide them with better care. This work proposes a framework that would enable interoperability of Electronic Health Records from different health facilities across Ghana. The framework underlines certain key requirements such as reliable internet connectivity, biometric finger print scanner and mapping of various tables of the individual databases from different EHRs to the adapter of the framework for interoperability to take place. A simulation and virtualization test about the framework was conducted based on connectivity,search for patients who has visited many facilities and those who don’t have their records in any of the facilities to examine how it would perform if used in the real world. The simulation results from the virtualized framework revealed that it does not require many resources such as high internet speed, one programming language platform for the EHRs, computer servers with high memory and CPU to allow interoperability of patients’ records. Therefore, the framework would highly help health care providers to care for their patients well, due to the vast amount of information they would have on their patients. As part of the recommendations, each EHR in the health facility needs a backup internet, electricityand standby sever for the framework in order to function effectively. Finally, further works could also be done on this study to generate trends reports
A Security Shield for Internet of Things (IoT) Devices
(KNUST, 2019-06) Justice Owusu, Agyemang
The Internet of Things (IoT) is a new paradigm that enables the convergence of smart objects and the internet. It is an intelligent network that connects all things to the Internet for the purpose of exchanging information and communicating through the information sensing devices in accordance with agreed protocols. Aside the various benefits IoT provides, it also presents challenges related to security and privacy. The direct connection of IoT devices to the internet makes them susceptible to several security threats. Some ongoing projects for enhancing IoT security include methods for providing data confidentiality and authentication, access control within the IoT network, privacy and trust among users and things, and the enforcement of security and privacy policies. However, even with these mechanisms, IoT networks are vulnerable to multiple attacks aimed to disrupt the network. For this reason, another line of defense, designed for detecting attackers is needed. Intrusion Detection Systems (IDSs) fulfill this purpose. Previous resarch works propose IDSs in relation to IPv6 over Low-power Wireless Personal Area Network (6LoWPAN). However, since IoT will be used in many application domains with different technologies (WiFi, BLE, NFC and Z-Wave), development of IDSs only for 6LoWPAN is insufficient to meet the security needs of every IoT system. This research work focuses on IDSs for IoT devices that use WiFi technology. No previous works address IDSs for IoT devices that use WiFi technology. The research proposes lightweight intrusion detection algorithms that addresses ManIn-The-Middle (MITM) and Rogue Access Points (RAP) attacks. It goes further to propose an orchestration framework for IoT devices which can be used to logically isolate these devices in instances where vulnerabilities are found on them.
A study of the factors influencing the performance of public basic schools in Ga West District.
(KNUST, 2018-11) Agyeiwaa, Mary Yaa
The main purpose of the study is to identify the factors responsible for the poor academic performance of public basic school pupils in the Ga-West District. The researchers adopted descriptive research design in order to analyze the topic thoroughly. In this study, the target population was made up of teachers and students of some selected public basic schools in the Ga-West District. Studying the whole population would have greatly enhanced the outcome of the study. The various students and teachers from the selected public basic schools in the district were selected using quatrain which convenience sampling was used to select the individuals who responded to the questionnaire. Both primary and secondary sources of data were obtained for the study. The used descriptive statistics such as mean, standard deviation, frequency distribution in analyzing the data. The study revealed that there is no adequate teaching and learning materials, there no ultra-modern library facility, there is no availability of good classroom building and also there is no availability of laboratory. Findings again revealed that parent related factors causing low academic performance are inability to provide textbooks and supplementary readers, family structure, and low parental involvement in Parent Teacher Association (PTA). Pupil related factors affecting low academic performance were indices of lateness to school and absenteeism, lack of assistance with studies at home and use of local language in the classroom. It is recommended that the schools administration should maintain a cordial relationship between teachers, parents, students so as to help students towards better or excellent performance.
A study of the impact of Akan intonation on English in Ghana.
(KNUST, 2018-08) Afrifa-Yamoah, Daniel
The aim of this research is to investigate the intonation patterns of English employed by theAkan speakers in Kumasi, Ghana. The researcher hypothesises that the intonation patterns Ghanaian speakers of English use varied from those of the L1 speakers of English such asBritons and Americans. It is further hypothesised that the intonation patterns of Ghanaian speakers of English are influenced by their L1 i.e. Akan for the purpose of this study. In finding out the validity or otherwise of these claims, the researcher studies the intonation patterns of Akan and Ghanaian English. Also, the intonation patterns of Ghanaian English and those of Akan, American and British English are compared. To achieve this objective, the researcher selects declarative and interrogative statements with intransitive, transitive and ditransitive verbs. The stress patterns are rotated among the initial and the final words of the statements in the data. Two males and one female participants having Akan as first language are selected from Kumasi, the Ashanti regional capital, Ghana. The data set is recorded and saved in wav. format. The sound files are run on PRAAT and operated to get rid of unwanted points in the speech contours of the statements recorded. Ending intonation patterns are kept in the form of images and later branded in accordance with the ToBI theory of intonation. Speech patterns of Akan and Ghanaian English produced by Akan speakers are then paralleled. The frequency of the patterns are created and tabulated. The outcomes of earlier studies relating to American and British speakers’ use of intonation patterns are used as a tool for comparing intonation patterns of Ghanaian English and those of the native varieties of English. In the end, I map the speech patterns of Ghanaian English on that of Akan, American and British English. The outcomes show that the pitch contour of declarative statements in Akan and Ghanaian English is similar. It similarly indicates that there is a vivid variation in the American, British and Ghanaian English speakers’ use of speech contours for declarative statements. Identical is the outcome for yes/no and wh-interrogatives since the influence of Akan on the intonation aptterns of English in Ghana is obvious. The discovery shows that the Akan speakers of English in Ghana transfer the first language’s speech contours to English which is a second language to them. The study again establishes that the speech contours employed by Akan speakers of Ghanaian English are poles apart from thoseof the Americans and Britons. The study highlights the importance for teachers of English in Ghana to incorporate an exhaustive discussion of speech patterns in teaching and learning to highlight the diversity between Ghanaian, American and the British speakers’ use of speech contours in English.
A study of the nomination of females as district chief executives in Northern Region.
(KNUST, 2018-06) Awuku, Kelly Etse
The historical subordination of women especially in public life has been widely discussed and efforts are being made globally to reverse this trend. Ghana for that matter Northern Region, is not insulated from this global trend. Thus, this study selectively focuses on patriarchy and participation of women in politics: a study of the nomination of females as District Chief Executives in Northern Region of Ghana. An attempt to find out factors accounting for the difficulties associated with the confirmation of females as District Chief Executives, the study adopted the mix research approach where quantitative and qualitative methods were employed; ninety (90) questionnaires were administered to 90 participants in a survey. Interviews and focus group discussions were also organized in Savelugu Municipality, Sagnarigu District and Tolon District. The findings indicate that, socio-cultural practices and beliefs hinder the confirmation of females as District Chief Executives in the region. Lack of commitment in implementing Affirmative Action as well as financial constraints are among the reasons why women‟s presence at the District Chief Executive positions are not being felt much. These factors, however, are not insurmountable. It is therefore a wake-up call on government, civil society, women groups and political parties to engineer the adaption of a national Affirmative Action policy which will have the endorsement of all political parties. It is believed that the adoption of this strategy and the establishment of a special fund to support women in politics or women seeking for District Chief Executive positions will reverse the trend.
A study on stakeholder activities in the cocoa industry: evidence from the western north region
(KNUST, 2023) TANDOH ERIC THEOPHILUS
Cocoa is a crucial commodity that confers several socioeconomic benefits to nations. The cocoa growing industry has many players or stakeholders who play specific roles to ensure efficiency and enhanced productivity within the industry. The aim of the current study was to explore the activities of the stakeholders within the cocoa industry in the Suaman District of the Western North Region. To achieve this goal, the study employed an exploratory research design and collected primary data to test the relationships of interest through the administration of questionnaires. A total of 100 participants comprising 50 local cocoa farmers and 50 staff of various lbcs were recruited for the study using the convenient and purposive sampling technique. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used for the analysis of the data gathered. Analysis of the results revealed that “planting shading trees or plants as protective cover for seedlings” was the most performed activity among cocoa farmers while “creating of fire belt around cocoa farms” was the least performed. In terms of activities of stakeholders, “in the event of accident your company shares risks with COCOBOD” recorded the lowest mean score while “your organization is affected by the overall outputs of cocoa farmers” had the highest mean score. The study recommends that future studies must use wider geographical area to explore the relations of interest. Future studies must also include other stakeholders within the cocoa industry to ascertain their roles in enhancing or disrupting the sustainability of the cocoa sector. Also, COCOBOD and lbcs must increase sensitization of local cocoa farmers to encourage them to use good farming practices. Finally, more agricultural institutions must be established to accommodate more extension officers who will facilitate the education and sensitization of stakeholders in the cocoa industry.
A Visual Documentation of Selected Akan Myths
(KNUST, 2018-11) Benedicta Efua Apprey
Social interactions have given proof to the many assertions and conclusions of both traditionalist, and academics of the receding nature of appreciation for the countless traditional precepts that define the Akan individual, in recent times. The study aims at giving greater insights and clarity to perceptions and attitudes surrounding the phenomenon, most importantly to provide a working document which can be used by cultural educators, researchers and other stakeholders in the field. Topics explored and reviewed includes, the field of mythology, its concept, and significance, also a comparative examination of some key Asante traditional symbols in relation to design thinking for illustrations. These topics were in line with the research objectives of; a) identification and description of myths, b) classification of diverse Akan myths c) creating visual illustrations of selected myths based on themes that emerge from findings. The phenomenological approach to research employed enhanced the depth of data retrieved from respondents as it dictates a flexibility and adaptive nature of the researcher in the exploration of the subject under study. The accessible population included community members and traditional leaders all within notable indigenous communities, made possible and effective through the purposive sampling methods used. The study revealed that Akans are highly spiritual people and this reflects in their mythical beliefs that influence their customs and practices; as it is relevant in some communities today. Five classifications of myths were identified: 1) myths about death and the afterlife, 2) myths about protection and social governance, 3) myths about births and children, 4) myths about gods and tutelary spirits, and 5) myths about creatures and beings. Further studies can be conducted into the individual categories of myths identified in addition to developing abstract visual documentation of the myths discussed in this study.
A-Signifying Allegory. Art as an Act of Folding and the Circulation of the Sensible
(KNUST, 2023) De Marchi, Rebecca
A-Signifying Allegory. Art as an Act of Folding and the Circulation of the Sensible is a wandering around the epistemic trope of how beings make experience and knowledge of the Earth, and how, consequently, a variety of worlds and ways of inhabiting and using them are conceived. Taking a generative, planetary, decolonial, and posthuman posture, the researchbased artistic practice is carried on under the double lens of the academic and materialspiritual cultures. The metaphor of the fold that Deleuze reads from Leibniz has been pivotal among the various means that connect the Leibnizian incompossible worlds animating the entire project. With Leibniz, it has been tenable to say that all incompossible worlds are possible, and though not together, shape a different scenario for a best possible world in common. The enquiry further interrogates the extraction-driven consumption of the neoliberal system. The approach is not a critique, complaint, or denouncing of situations; rather, it is to let the deep and hidden other voices arise as a form of dissent. So, the means of working and the artworks that emerge contribute to the fabrication of an allegorical archive of the future shaped by attentive listening to the organic libraries of ‘persons’, as centres of intentionality, living or not, organic or inorganic, which precedes and includes the concept of the human. The practice incorporates an experimental research process in collaboration with several actants and organisms, institutions including KNUST Departments, students, artists, practitioners, and more constituting a curatorial entity of mutual care, Zoe KɔKɔɔ, who does not generate a community. In its becoming and a-signifying results, the practice is taken open to the appropriation of whoever encounters it, who simultaneously participates in the circulation of the sensible. Consequently, there is no conclusion, if not this attitude of mild equivocation embedded in any form of translation, as the discovering of new ways of folding

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