ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
Development of sustainable nutrient management! strategy for oil palm (elaeis guineensis) nursery: neb and polyfeed evaluation

The responses of oil palm {Elaeis guineesis) seedlings to different fertilizer sources were monitored. Polyfeed and NEB sources were tested whiles the standard practice of the Oil Palm Research Institute and an absolute control were used as standard reference. The trial consisted of two parts with different treatments monitored over a period of ten and our months. The first trial consisted of nine treatments whiles the second trial consisted of five treatments, all replicated three times in randomized complete block design (RCBD). Growth parameters measured included plant height, number of leaves/palm, butt circumference, frond dry weight, leaf area and leaf area index. Leaf samples were analyzed for N, P, K, Mg, Ca. Soil chemical properties, microbial biomass and urease activities were also determined. Oil palm seedlings responded positively to the fertilizer « application. Thirty grams of polyfeed and standard practice per palm per month improved the vegetative growth and the soil nutrient content compared to the absolute control. Polyfeed + NEB-26, polyfeed + NEB-29, polyfeed + NEB-33, standard practice + NEB- 26, standard practice + NEB-29 and standard practice + NEB-33 performed equally well. Sole NEB-33, NEB-26 and NEB-29 did not improve butt circumference, number of leaves/palm and nutrient content of the leaves at the end of the trial. The total biomass production among the different fertilizer sources was more or less similar with the exception of NEB-26 and NEB-29. Monthly application of the treatments influenced the soil chemical properties to varying degrees. NEB-33 recorded the highest urease activity of 15.60 mg/kg with polyfeed and the standard practice accounting for the highest microbial N and P levels. While it costs GH0O.43 to produce a seedling without fertilizer, it costs GH01.15 and GH02.59 to apply NEB-26 and NEB-29 respectively for 12 months. Polyfeed and the standard practice amounted to GH^O.79 and GH0O.6O respectively for 12 months. The use of NEB-33 for 4 months accounted for GH0O.51. The performance of polyfeed treatment agronomically was good and would be more appropriately used to advantage than sole NEB for raising oil palm seedlings. Polyfeed has the potential to be used at the oil palm nursery. The standard practice treatment as observed was agronomically and economically the best treatment.

Source: KNUST
Development of Sustainable Nutrient Management Strategy for Oil Palm (Elaeis Guineensis Jacq.) Nursery: - Green-Gro and Polyfeed Evaluation

The Performance of oil palm seedlings grown in a compost-soil mixture (green-gro) medium and top soil with the application of three different formulations of fertilizer was evaluated. The study was conducted for a period of eight months at the Sapcoe President's Special Initiative (PSI) oil palm nursery located at Okyinso near Kade. Green-gro, a propagation medium was introduced for application by nursery operators participating in the production of oil palm seedlings under the PSI on oil palm programme. The trial consisted of eight treatments replicated three times in a mised complete block design. Both media were characterized before the experiment and is conducted during and after the experiment for physical and chemical properties and microbial biomass (N, P and C). Growth parameters measured over the experimental period were butt circumference, plant height, number of leaves, frond dry weight, leaf area and leaf area index. Destructive measurement was conducted at the end of the experiment. Plants were analysed for total nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium and magnesium at bimonthly intervals. Nutrient use efficiencies were computed and agro-economic appraisal calculated for all the treatments. Plant nutrients and organic matter accumulated more in green-gro medium than the topsoil during after the experiment. pH increased rapidly in the topsoil treatments than in the green-gro medium treatments. Vegetative growth in seedlings planted in bags filled with ordinary topsoil was rally better than their counterparts planted in the green-gro medium. Higher accumulation of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and calcium were observed in seedlings planted in bags with top soil than those planted in green-gro medium. Seedlings planted in topsoil produced dry shoot to root ratio than their counterparts planted in green-gro medium, However, lings planted in green-gro medium produced more dry root to shoot ratio than their counterparts planted in the topsoil. Seedling mortality rate was low among seedlings planted in bagsfilled with green-gro medium. Generally, nutrient recovery rate was low for phosphorus and potassium. The recovery rate was high for nitrogen in treatments with N P K Mg and Polyfeed + fertilization and high for magnesium in treatments with Polyfeed fertilization irrespective of the media. The cost of using green-gro medium was extremely higher than the use of topsoil for establishment and was aggravated when Polyfeed was used for fertilization. The quality of topsoil is an important determinant for seedling growth and survival and should be properly to reduce cost of production.

Source: KNUST
Development of techno-economic models for optimised utilisation of jatropha curcas linnaeus

This study sought to develop techno-economic models for the production and optimised utilisation of jatropha oil and its by-products. Jatropha oil and press cake briquette were characterised for physico-chemical properties. Four models were developed based on business cases for jatropha production and processing. Model 1: large scale plantation with export of oil. Model 2: large scale plantation and utilisation of oil for electricity and soap production and by-products for biogas and briquette production. Model 3: out grower scheme with export of oil and utilisation of cake for compost. Model 4: out grower scheme with utilisation of oil and by-products as presented in model 2. Economic analyses of the models were performed using NPV and IRR. Linear programming models were developed based on outcomes of the models to optimise the use of jatropha oil and by-products through profit maximisation. Results from the study revealed average oil, press cake and residual oil content of 30.89%, 65.51% and 3.60% respectively. Physico-chemical properties of the oil revealed iron content (62 mg/kg), iodine number (93), flash point (213oC), density (918 kg/m3) and acid value (29.75 mgKOH/g). The findings suggest that using the oil directly in modified CI engine require thorough filtering to remove contaminants to recommended levels. Results of the physico-chemical assessment of the briquettes revealed moisture content (8% dry basis), ash content (4.64%) and calorific value (7,115.7 kcal/kg) which meet recommended briquette characteristics. Findings from the techno-economic models revealed that model 1 was not financially viable. All the scenarios considered under model 2 were financially viable. Models 3 and 4 were financially viable from the processors’ perspective but not from the farmers’. Financial viability was achieved for both parties in models 3 and 4 at seed price of $0.1/kg and $0.085/kg respectively. Soap and biogas production were identified to be the most profitable use of oil and by-products respectively. The findings indicate that, valorisation of by-products and local utilisation of Jatropha oil produce financial viability. Optimising the utilisation of the oil resulted in annual maximum profit of $147,865. This required production of 140,135 kWh of electricity and 62,129 kg of soap. Maximising the utilisation of by-products resulted in an annual profit of $22,220 by producing 46,133m3 of biogas and 87,241 kg of compost.

Source: KNUST
Development of the art of glassblowing in Ghana: Prospects and challenges of selected glassblowing units.

The objectives of this study are to identify the existing operational glassblowing units in the country; to investigate and document their tools, materials, equipment and methods which are used by these glassblowing units; assess their strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of the glassblowing units. The multiple case study approach was adapted for the study. The target population was 175. The accessible population was 153. The purposive sampling method was used to sample 153 respondents which constituted 87.4% of the targeted population. Questionnaire, interview schedule and observation guide were the main instruments used. The study identified only three operational glassblowing units in the entire country namely, Glassblowing Unit - Industrial Research Division (CSIR) Accra; Glassblowing Unit - University of Cape Coast (UCC) Cape Coast and Glassblowing Unit - Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology Kumasi. The tools, materials and equipment used by the glassblowing units are of standardised quality however, the purchase of annealing oven and calibration machines would be an added advantage. The evaluation of the units revealed the strengths of the units as; good infrastructure, competent personnel, quality products and services, among others. The weaknesses exposed included; low publicity, low patronage, poor aesthetic finishing, etc. The opportunities also included; the abundance of local raw materials for glass blowing, total monopoly enjoyed by the glass industry in Ghana, the potential to diversify the glass industry in the country by introducing glass etching, glass incising, etc into their production techniques. Threats identified were aging personnel, high cost of training personnel, unfavourable institutional administrative impart and lack of awareness about the prospects of glass blowing in the country. It was concluded that the units have some enviable strengths that has to be consolidated and improved by taking advantage of latent potentials and resources. Equally the units have weaknesses if not addressed could lead to the units being totally extinct in the country.

Source: KNUST
Development of TiO2-based dye-sensitized solar cells using natural dyes extracted from some plant-based materials

The need for a green and more environmentally friendly energy production has led to recent research into the use of natural products in the production photovoltaic cells. In this study, TiO2-based dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) were fabricated using photo-sensitizers made from ten natural dyes extracted from different plant parts (i.e. seeds, stalks, peels and flowers) of some selected plants and using candle soot carbon as a counter electrode. The chemical composition of the materials was determined using basic phytochemical screening assays. The extracted dye materials were characterized using UV and IR methods after which they were used in developing DSSCs. The DSSCs were then characterized under AM 1.5 illuminations to measure their photoelectrochemical properties. The dyes containing carboxyl and hydroxyl functional groups showed weak to large absorption under the visible light (400-700 nm) irradiation. The photo-electrochemical performance of the various cells gave an efficiency of as high as 0.18% with open circuit voltages ranging from 0.28 to 0.45 V and short-circuits photocurrent densities from 0.26 to 1.69 mA.cm-1. Better efficiencies can be attained by improving the DSSC constructional parameters.

Source: KNUST
Development of Two Improved Agbozume Biscuits using Orange-Fleshed Sweetpotato Puree and Cowpea Flour

Agbozume biscuit is a gluten-free local delicacy made from cassava starch and coconut milk. In spite of its potential to meet the dietary needs of gluten-intolerant individuals, it is produced at the cottage industry level leading to variability in its production processes and quality. The study aimed to understudy the existing process for producing the biscuit and develop two improved forms of the biscuit. The nutrient content of the biscuit was improved by substituting cassava starch (C) up to 50% with orange-fleshed sweetpotato puree (OFSPP) and cowpea flour (CP). Different recipes were developed for the two improved biscuits. Separate consumer preference tests were conducted using a 5-point Hedonic scale to assess the acceptance of the two improved biscuits. Proximate, mineral and beta-carotene was determined for the most preferred improved biscuits. The most preferred formulations were: (80%C: 15%CP: 5% OFSPP) and (50% C: 30% OFSPP: 20% CP). Likeness for the improved biscuits was comparable to the traditional Agbozume biscuit. Biscuit with 50%C: 30%OFSPP: 20%CP had the highest amount of crude protein (7.78%), fibre (0.55%), moisture (6.45%), ash (0.89%), iron (22.5mg/100g), potassium (318mg/100g) and magnesium (74.5 mg/100g). Biscuit with 80%C: 5%OFSPP: 15%CP had the highest calcium value (61.5 mg/100g) and the traditional Agbozume biscuit (100%C) had the highest fat (17.69%) and zinc content (33.5 mg/100g). The biscuit with 50%C: 30%OFSPP: 20%CP had a beta-carotene content of 13.00μg/g and biscuit with 80%C: 5%OFSPP: 15%CP was 9.44μg/g. The biscuits being gluten-free, if promoted will serve as a good and healthy snack option for gluten-intolerant individuals, young and aged people. It will also enhance the use of orange-fleshed sweetpotato to help achieve food and nutrient security.

Source: KNUST
The development of total quality management model for the beverage industry based on Kasapreko Company Limited’s experience

The aim of this study was to explore the implementation of TQM in Kasapreko Company Limited (KCL) and model a TQM framework for the beverage industry. Data were gathered from a total of 54 respondents from KCL through a questionnaire survey. The respondents were selected using stratified random sampling within the KCL. The data collected was analyzed with descriptive statistics using frequencies and a Relative Index (RI) model for ranking responses on the Likert scale. The results of the analysis showed that all the respondents were aware of the TQM policy of the company. Furthermore, it was found out thatTQM policies are very effective in the company. This was indicated through relatively high RI values of statements such as “TQM policies have clearly defined scope” and “company’s TQM policies are consistent with workplace operation’s objectives” with RI values of 0.700 and 0.670. High RI values were found for statements on the business results of TQM processes at the KCL. For instance, “Increase Revenue” had an index of 0.948. “Increasing workers competency” and “Reduction of number of customer complaints” both with an RI of 0.915. Typical challenges of good TQM implementation were found to include “Lack of committed and skilled implementing officials” and “Poor Coordination and communication” which had RI values of 0.919 and 0.911. The framework was modeled to embody significant TQM processes such as clearly defining policy scope; making policy consistent with workplace and operational objectives as well as clearly defining responsibilities for all different departments. The study recommends the regular training of employees within the firms of the beverage industry to empower them.

Source: KNUST
Development of works procurement policy guidelines for a private tertiary institution: A case study of the Methodist University College Ghana

The large volumes of infrastructural works elevate to the fore the need to be particular about the procurement procedures for the acquisition of infrastructure. The private tertiary education industry in recent times has been financially challenged. One of such institutions is the Methodist University College Ghana. Low levels of student admissions have had a direct correlation with revenue projections and therefore the lack of a proper framework in the utilization of scarce funds toward physical development could have serious consequences. The study sort to develop policy guidelines for the Methodist University College Ghana to regulate the procurement of works. The specific objectives were to identify the procurement and contracting cycles in practice; and also to identify the construction procurement structures that exist in the University College. Data were collected through questionnaire survey involving key officers in charge of the procurement of works in the institution. An analysis of existing procurement documentation was also undertaken using seven new management tools. The study found that there was the lack of a regulatory policy for construction procurement. There was the absence of an open competitive tendering process because key tender boards had not been constituted. As a result, poor contract management/administration and supervision, procurement reporting, monitoring and evaluation were the challenges the institution was faced with. The study therefore makes recommendations for the rationalisation of the procurement structures in the institution by the introduction of tender boards and distinctly laying out the requisite roles and responsibilities of all procurement functionaries. Guidelines are also proposed to aid in the preparation of a policy that covers generic tendering procedures, risk management, contracting and contract administration.

Source: KNUST
Developmental Trends in Indigenous Pottery Making at Mfensi, in the Ashanti Region of Ghana

There are series of revolutionary changes occurring on indigenous pottery production technologies with respect to product forms at different periods of time. Mfensi, is one of Ghana’s indigenous pottery centres. The village is very dynamic in its pottery products and technological practices. This study investigated the developmental trends of the indigenous pottery at Mfensi to assess changes in pottery production technologies, forms, and factors driving the changing trends. The study was qualitative, based on historical research design. Purposive sampling technique was used to select potters for interviews; workshops for observation; and indigenous pottery wares from the 1960s- 1980s periods and 1990s to date were collected for analysis. Findings from the research revealed that indigenous pottery production at Mfensi continues to use wood fuel kilns, hand driven potter’s wheel; drying; packing, and firing techniques remain unchanged, except clay extraction method. In terms of pottery forms, traditional water storage pots and grinding bowls have been complemented by clay stove, incubators and crucibles; water coolers have declined to water jugs and eventually to clay water filters. Mfensi produced one form of flower pots which was smallish, v-shape and biscuit before the 1980s; but in contemporary times, they produce diverse designs: pot, tree, and drum-like shapes which are relatively bigger and tall, standard painting decorations with metal stands. However, changing trends in pottery making are driven by potters’ desire to gain market, modern ceramic technologies, customers’ specifications, and potters innovations and job experiences. The results underscore indigenous pottery being slow to the adoption of modern technologies and improved forms. There is thus the need for value addition, improved quality to meet contemporary standards and consumer needs; whilst government should spearhead the creation of pottery villages; and access to market, modern technologies and financial incentives.

Source: KNUST
Developng an instructional media (Digital Video) for Teaching Screen Printing in Senior High School an Colleges

The education system is fundamental in encouraging people to develop commercial awareness but our schools do little to nourish these skills (Gavron et al., 1998). Visual Arts for Secondary schools was introduced into Ghana's educational curriculum in 1987, to promote culture, increase education, equip the learners with employable skills and to meet the commercial and industrial demands of art in the country...

Source: KNUST
DFT Mechanistic Study on the Reaction of Benzenesulfonyl Azideswith Oxabicyclic Alkenes

The reaction of benzenesulfonyl azides with oxabicyclic alkenes to form aziridines, reported by Chen et al (J. Org. Chem.2019, 84, 18, 11863-11872), couldproceed via initial [3+2] cycloaddition to form triazoline intermediates followed by dinitrogen cleavage or via initial dinitrogen cleavage of the benzenesulfonyl azideto afford a nitrene intermediate followed by insertion of this species into the olefinic bond of the oxabicyclic alkene. Calculations at the DFTM06-2X/6-311G+(d,p) level showthat the initial [3+2] cycloaddition has barriers of 17.3 kcal/mol (endo) and 10.2 kcal/mol (exo) while the initial nitrogen extrusion step has a barrier of 38.9 kcal/mol. The rate-determining step along the former pathway isthe dinitrogen cleavage from triazoline cycloadducts which hasbarriers of 32.3 kcal/mol (endo) and 38.6 kcal/mol (exo) and that along the latter pathway isdinitrogen cleavage from benzenesulfonyl azide with an activation of barrier of 38.9 kcal/mol. The[3+2] addition of benzenesulfonyl azide with oxabicyclic alkene to afford endoandexotriazoline intermediatesis kinetically favoredover the dinitrogen cleavage from benzenesulfonyl azide by 21.6 and 28.1 kcal/mol for endoand exopathway respectively.Thus,the preferred pathway for the reaction of oxabicyclic alkene with benzenesulfonyl azide is via initial [3+2] addition followed by dinitrogen cleavage, contrary to the proposal by Chen et al. The lower activation barrier for the dinitrogen extrusion step leading to endoaziridine compared toexoisomer means that the endoproduct will be formed as the major product, confirming the 2experimental observation.The position of substituents on the benzene group of the benzenesulfonyl azide greatly affectsthe endo/ exodiastereoselectivity. Keywords: Aziridines, oxabicyclic alkene, benzenesulfonyl azides, triazoline, dinitrogen extrusion, cycloaddition

Source: KNUST