ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
Screening of maize(Zea Mays L.) inbred lines for tolerance to drought

An experiment was conducted in the plant house at the mechanization department of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) to determine the drought tolerance levels of twelve maize (Zea mays L) genotypes as a basis for the development of drought tolerant maize hybrids. Eight inbred lines and four varieties with different genetic backgrounds were used in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with four replications. Water was withdrawn at six weeks after planting and resumed at ten days interval for the water stressed maize genotypes and the non stressed maize genotypes received water throughout the experiment. Data were collected on plant height, leaf moisture content, dry matter yield, root dry mass, and grain yield. Individual means of water stressed genotypes were compared to their corresponding non-stressed in a pairwise comparison analyses (t-test) and LSD was used to determine differences in treatment means at 5% probability level. There were significant differences among the maize genotypes as regards to the water treatments and the parameters measured (plant height, leaf moisture content, dry matter yield, root dry mass, and grain yield). Water stress decreased growth and development of maize genotypes significantly. An exception was Aburohemaa which did not show any significant difference between the water stress and non-stress conditions for plant height. Weak positive correlations were obtained between grain yield and leaf moisture content (r2 = 0.02), grain yield and root dry mass ( r2 = 0.03), grain yield and plant height (r2 = 0.142). However, there was a weak negative correlation between grain yield and dry matter yield (r2 = -0.159). With performance as regards to Drought Susceptibility Index (DSI) which is a measure of yield stability (DSI = (1- Yd / Yw) / D. Where Yd = mean yield under drought, Yw = mean yield under well-watered conditions, and D = drought intensity = 1- (mean yield of all genotypes under drought / mean yield of all genotypes under well-watered conditions), maize genotypes Tzeei 4, Tzeei 76, Tzeei 1 and Aburohemaa could be recommended to be used as source for drought tolerance in maize breeding programme.

Source: KNUST
Screening of six local sorghum varieties for their malting and brewing qualities

Six locally available sorghum varieties were assessed for their malting and brewing qualities. With the exception of Chere, all varieties had suitable 1000 corn weights (>25 g). The differences in corn weights were also significant (p<0.05). Analysis of Germination energy (GE) and Germinative capacity (GC) gave results of >90 % for each variety, signifying their viability. Nitrogen content ranging from1.67 %-2.03 % was obtained for the varieties studied in their unmalted state. Results obtained for malted samples ranged between 1.38 %-1.89 %. With the exception of Dorado (fat 0.96 %), other varieties studied gave high fat contents (i.e. >1.0 %) for the malts. Significant differences were obtained for the malting losses. This ranged between 15.75 % (for Kapaala) and 28.06 %( for Chere). Strong correlation existed between malting loss and Diastatic power (DP) (r=0.803). DP levels for varieties studied indicated that Kapaala (40.07 oWk) was the least modified whiles Chere (60.3 oWk) was the most modified. Differences in DP between varieties studied were significant (p<0.05). The mashing regime and results obtained for Cold water extract (CWE), hot water extract (HWE) and filtration rates showed that all the varieties studied need to be pre-gelatinised before being added to barley malt mash as none gelatinised within malt enzyme temperature range (i.e. 60 OC-70 OC). Results further showed that Kapaala had the highest potential extract (77.94 %) while Sample1 (71.01 %) had the least. In all, the HWE for all the varieties studied ranged between 71.01 % and 77.94 %. Response of mashes to starch check level showed that none of the varieties gelatinises at a temperature suitable for the endogenous amylases. Thus, use of exogenous enzymes or barley malt part mash is required to hydrolyse the sorghum malt starch during the brewing process.

Source: KNUST
Screening soybean germplasm for resistance to rust disease and pod shattering

Soybean production has suffered yield losses from 10 to 80 % due to rust disease. Host plant resistance has been found to be the best control strategy. These experiments were conducted to determine the presence of the rust resistance gene(s) and evaluate them on the field for P. pachyrhizi, pod shattering, lodging and yield potential. Thirty four soybeans accessions consisting of 32 breeding lines and two local varieties from Ghana were used. Screening for presence of rust resistance gene(s) was done using simple sequence repeat (SSR) makers. The field experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Soybean genotypes were evaluated for rust resistance under natural epiphytotic condition. Lodging was scored using IITA descriptors. Pod shattering screening was done using oven dry method in the laboratory. Days to 50 % flowering, nodule count, plant height, days to maturity, seeds per 100 pods, 1000 seed weight and grain yield were recorded. SSR markers revealed genotypes SIT-E TGx1990-3F, SIT-M TGx1987-91F, SIT-M TGx1989-45F and SIT-E TGx1988-5F to have multiple resistance genes Rpp1, Rpp2 and Rpp3, however genotype TGx1909-3F was identified not to have resistance gene. Out of the 34 soybean genotypes, SIT-M TGx1989-45F, SIT-M TGx1987-40F, SIT-E TGx1990-3F and SIT-M TGx1987-91F were found to be highly resistant to rust disease during phenotypic screening. It was revealed that 53 % of the genotypes showed erectness to lodging. Six genotypes, namely SIT-M TGx1904-6F, SIT-E TGx1835-10E, SIT-M TGx1987-40F, TGx1903-7F, SIT-E TGx1448-2E and ANIDASO were found to be moderately resistant to pod shattering. Genotype SIT-E TGx1989-45F was superior in terms of yield. Genotypes observed to have resistance gene(s) (Rpp1, Rpp2, Rpp3, Rpp4 and Rpp5) to soybean rust could further be exploited and used in breeding programme. Further studies should be conducted to verify the genotype or varieties known to have some level of resistance to rust, shattering and lodging is stable/durable or not.

Source: KNUST
Screening Tomato (Solanum Lycopersicum L.) Genotypes for Resistance to Root-Knot Nematodes (Meloidogyne Species)

The use of root-knot nematode resistant tomato cultivars is an attractive alternative for nematode management as their use does not require major adaptations in farming practices. These experiments were conducted to determine the effect of inoculum density of Meloidogyne spp. on the severity of root-knot disease on tomato and to evaluate different tomato genotypes for resistance against root-knot nematodes. Two pot experiments were separately conducted to determine the influence of five inoculum levels (100, 500, 1000, 1500 and 2000 nematode eggs/ 1.6liters soil/pot) of root knot nematodes on tomato and host evaluation for resistance to root- knot nematodes. The pot experiments were laid out in a completely randomised design with four replications. Root-knot nematode reproduction and host damage were both affected by the initial inoculum levels and the results revealed an increase in mean number of juveniles, galls and eggs/root system. Plant height, stem diameter, fresh root weight, fresh shoot weight and number of eggs, juveniles and root galling were measured. The field experiment was laid out in a randomised complete block design with three replications. Pot and field experiments revealed a considerable variation in response against Meloidogyne spp among the genotypes evaluated. Out of the 33 tomato genotypes, Tomato Mongal T-11 and Tomato Beef master were found to be highly resistant. They recorded the lowest number of eggs in both the planthouse and under field conditions. They also scored the least number of galls. Burpee Roma was found to be moderately resistant and Tomato F1 2026 was the most susceptible genotype to attack by root-knot nematodes.

Source: KNUST
Screening of pepper varieties and accessions for resistance to anthracnose and management of seed-borne pathogens of pepper

Three main studies including a survey was conducted in two pepper growing communities in the Ashanti Region namely Ofoase-Kokoben and Konongo-Obenemasi to assess farmers’ perception and knowledge of the anthracnose disease by the use of structured questionnaires. Laboratory experiments took place at the Plant Pathology Laboratories of Faculty of Agriculture, KNUST, Kumasi and Crop Research Institute, Fumesua. Detection of fungi on pepper seed samples from farmers in Ofoase-Kokoben and Konongo-Obenemasi communities was done by direct plating on moist blotters in the laboratory. The efficacies of three botanical extracts namely garlic, ginger and neem, were also tested alongside Mancozeb, a synthetic fungicide for the control of seed-borne pathogens of pepper. Resistance of pepper accessions (CRI OO5, CRI 007 and CRI K82) and varieties (Shito adope, Legon 18, Meko hwam, Ohene nsatea and African bird’s eye) were evaluated in an anthracnose disease hotspot both in the minor and major seasons. The African bird’s eye was used as the check. Analysis of the questionnaires showed that, 72.5 % of farmers in the studied communities perceived anthracnose disease as one of the major diseases affecting pepper production. The farmers do not use certified seeds; about 75 % used seeds saved from previous harvest, 20 % used seeds obtained from friends and 5 % obtained their pepper seeds from the local markets. They do not treat their seeds before sowing. Nine genera of fungi including 12 species were identified from the pepper seed samples collected. Colletotrichum capsici and C. gloeosporoides were found to be associated with the anthracnose disease in the studied community. However, C. capsici was found to be the most predominant. Soaking the pepper seeds for 24 h in garlic extract was very effective as mancozeb in controlling Colletotrichum species present on the seeds. The results gathered from the screening of the accessions and varieties on the field also showed that, all the accessions and varieties were not resistant to the disease. Breeding for resistance is, therefore, necessary to increase farmers’ income and to ensuring food security. Further research involving the evaluation of a greater number of varieties and accessions from breeding programmes is also necessary if resistant varieties are to be identified for pepper production in Ghana.

Source: KNUST
Screening ten varieties of maize (Zea mays L.) For resistance to The maize weevil (Sitophilus zeamais Motsch.)

ost-harvest maize insect pests are a serious constraint to food security and income generation in sub-Saharan Africa. Ten varieties of maize cultivated in Ghana were screened to ascertain their resistance to the maize weevil, Sitophilus zeamais L. to assist farmers select a variety that can withstand the attack of the insect during storage. The study was conducted at the insect laboratory of the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences of the Faculty of Agriculture, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, KNUST, Kumasi. The Dodie Index of Susceptibility was used to group the varieties. Abeleehi, Omankwa, Abontem, and Adikanfo had indices less than 4 hence were classified as resistant. Weevils placed on Abeleehi produced the smallest number of progeny, had the highest median development period and lowest percentage seed damage and weight loss. Obatanpa, Aburohoma, Aburohemaa and Pan 12 were classified as moderately resistant whiles 10C8446 and 12C7636 were classified as moderately susceptible. Abeleehi had the best germination percentage with 12C7636 recording the lowest germination percentage after 90 days of storage. The resistant varieties, particularly Abeleehi can be recommended for S. zeamais management in maize especially for smallholder farmers in Ghana, whose seed can also be saved by farmers for planting in the subsequent season

Source: KNUST
Scripture Union National Campsite Twindurasi, Ashanti Region

A lot of Christian Organisations have been springing up from the mother churches all with the aim of ensuring a better Christian life. This has been the aim of Scripture Union, Ghana; in it’s over hundred years of existence. Scripture Union has been dealing with people of all age groups especially, the youth in their physical and spiritual growth. Unfortunately however, Scripture Union, Ghana; irrespective of its immense valuable contribution to the society has no special facilities to support the good work being done. The scheme deals with the feasibility studies, the statistical data needed for projections, design proposals, phasing and costing for the development of a campsite, a facility which is very important in the activities of Scripture Union. It seeks to meet the convivial, Spiritual and some physical needs of the union. The emphasis is on children of different age groups, the youth, although adults can also use the facility. Feasibility Studies show that the development of such a campsite, will to a greater extent, help fulfil the aim of scripture union, Ghana; and thereby help transform the youth in the society, to ensure a better citizenship and a better nation at large in the near future. It is hoped that this report with all that is entails will be the first step towards the realisation of this pressing need of scripture union, Ghana.

Source: KNUST
Sculptural variables in stop motion animation

This study delved into new-media in sculpture, to produce a virtual sculpture rather than actual or physical sculpture. The objectives of the study were to create sculptures traditionally, and use them in a stop motion animation to divulge some sculptural variables apart from the mainstream canons of the art in stop motion animation. A story was generated from Ghanaian folklore to produce models or puppets, build sets and props, compose and produce musical scores and to make a stop motion animation movie accordingly; to complete the study. The actual sculptures became virtual sculpture with the aid of the video camera which captured the images into movie files. The study revealed that once the stop motion movie involved a story line, fantasy, relationship, mores, locomotion, mimesis and comedy were inevitable variables to consider though they may appear to be indefinite.

Source: KNUST
Sculpture from Re-Cycled Glass

Anything new is seldom easy to introduce .That aside; it takes a lot of research to become conversant with a new thing. Yet the results especially when positive make up for all the trouble. I dare say Ralph Waldo Emerson the renowned American poet, writer and philosopher knew exactly what he meant when he opined that . . . “They can conquer who believe they can” (Ralph Waldo Emerson: 1803 -1882.)’ This project seeks to introduce an unusual material onto the Ghanaian sculpture scene. This is because “The sculptor must at all times be free to manifest his ideas” (John W. Mills: 1965 &1976:7).2 There are many materials from which sculpture can be made. Whatever solid comes to hand can be manipulated into three-dimensional art. However, only the materials which have been able to stand the test of time have been favourites and seem to limit the range of materials for sculpture hence stone, bronze, fired clay and wood. Other materials such as Plaster of Paris and Wax have been used more as means to an end than as materials per se - that is to say, for moulds and marquettes. Today, however, in spite of the fact that some are biased towards appreciating more, those sculptures made from the age old materials; there are many new and interesting sculpture materials. Foam, fabric, leather, neon tubes, cements, polyester resins, all kinds of plastics, metal alloys, paper, fibre-glass, plexiglass, and glass are some of the new materials that modem art has greatly benefited from, especially, by way of the idiomatic freedom that contemporary artists enjoy today. The widening range of sculpture materials today, for sculptors wishing to undertake both three and two dimensional sculpture is what this project wishes to project.

Source: KNUST
Sculptural forms for emotional expression

“Sculptural forms for emotional expression” seeks to reveal the damage tourist or airport art has caused creativity, and also to show the potentialities of wood as a sculptural material for the production of sculpture. It also highlights on the power and supremacy of the artist over his material herein referred to as “sculptural forms”. This research indicates the spirit or life possession of a piece of wood or stone; but just as the spirit of the prophet is subject to the control of the prophet, so the spirit that indwells a wood or stone is subject to the control of the carver. It takes the emotional spirit of the sculptor to evoke this indwelling spirit of the working material to be made visible, and in this wise the artist actually dictates the composition and style, through a particular technique and finish. The application of distortions, exaggeration and elongations of the overall form in a semi- abstract expressionist fashion would be the domineering feature in the project for the achievement of full expression, in a personal way. The project therefore offers a platform to sculptors for the discussion and a possible expression of similar emotions in their works. Essentially, the thesis is divided into four main chapters; each dealing with a specific issue. There is an introduction which precedes the main chapters indicating the statement of the problem, the objective, justification of the objective, delimitation of thesis and research methodology. Chapter one reviews the related literature, whiles chapter two looks at five experiments using different sculptural wood forms to express emotions in a personal way as a prelude to the actual project works. These experiments discuss personal ways of expressing emotions of joy, pain, sorrow, fear, depression and love. Chapter three deals with the main project based on the experiences and findings in the experimental works into producing four additional works of varied emotions. Chapter four looks at the results, recommendation and conclusions, and ends with the bibliography

Source: KNUST
Search for alternate hosts of the coconut Cape Saint Paul wilt disease pathogen

Lethal yellowing disease, locally called Cape St. Paul Wilt disease (CSPWD), is the bane of the coconut industry in Ghana and is caused by a phytoplasma. Phytoplasmas are 'cell wall-less' prokaryotes belonging to the class Mollicutes. In Ghana, there are areas where the disease has resurged after a long period of dormancy. This brings »to fore the possibility of alternate hosts in the spread of the disease since the pathogen is an obligate parasite. The identification of alternate hosts will increase our understanding of the spread of the disease and help evolve sound integrated control measures against the spread of the disease. In this work fifty seven plant species sampled from Cape Three Points in the Western Region and Asebu in the Central Region were screened for their host status to the CSPWD pathogen. The presence of phytoplasmas in these plants was tested by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analyses using universal phytoplasma primer pair P1/P7 which identifies phytoplasmas of all types. A further test was carried out with CSPWD specific primer pair G813/GAKSR to verify the positives detected by the 'universal primers'. To confirm the PCR results, Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP) analysis was performed on samples which tested positive to the CSPWD specific primers. Whilst several species tested positive with the universal primers, only Desmodium adscendens samples tested positive with the CSPWD specific primers. RFLP analyses with EcoRl and Hind III produced patterns consistent with the profile of the CSPWD phytoplasma, but Rsa 1 and Alu 1 gave patterns different from the expected profile. Cloning and sequencing however failed to confirm the amplified organism as the CSPWD phytoplasma, but rather the organisms were found to be related to Bacillus megateruim and Rhodobacter sphaeroides. It is therefore imperative to clone and sequence in molecular experiments before making conclusions.

Source: KNUST
Seasonal nutrient cycling of Lake Bosomtwe

Seasonal nutrient cycling of Lake Bosomtwe was investigated from February-December 2008. Bimonthly samples were collected at both inshore and offshore zones of three selected sites namely Abono, Asisriwa and Dompa. Levels of the parameters covered (surface water temperature, transparency, pH, conductivity, phosphorus, nitrogen, organic carbon and primary production) were determined for contrasting seasons. A survey on attitude of fair use and conservation of the catchment area by farmers in the two inhabited sampling sites Abono and Dompa was also conducted. The results showed that lowest surface water temperature of Lake Bosomtwe was in August. Transparency from Secchi disk measurement was low in the dry season and the lowest was recorded at Abono and Dompa. Statistically insignificant correlation existed between transparency and chlorophyll-a at all the three study sites. Mean transparency during the study ranged from 0.64 to 1.49 m. pH of the lake was lowest in the dry season and highest in the main wet season. Organic carbon influenced pH in the inshore zones and mean pH range recorded during the study was 8.77-9.33. Conductivity was highest in October after the main wet season and lowest during the dry season. A correlation analysis between conductivity and all the nutrients (phosphorus, nitrogen and organic carbon) covered in this study revealed non uniform correlation. Mean conductivity recorded ranged from 1047.8 to1268.5 µscm-1. Phosphorus did not follow a marked seasonality and mean phosphorus recorded during the study ranged from 0.025 to 0.48 mg-1 with the highest recorded at Dompa in December. Organic carbon levels were high during the heavy rains in June and August at Abono and Dompa. Mean organic carbon levels recorded during the study ranged from 0.667 to 4.339 mg-1 with the highest at Abono. Highest mean total nitrogen determined as Total Kjedahl Nitrogen was recorded in June and August in Abono and Dompa. Mean nitrogen levels fluctuated within eutrophic status during the study and levels recorded ranged between 0.89 and 75.37 mg-1. Chlorophyll-a followed a strict seasonality with the highest chlorophyll-a in August. Seasonal nitrogen appeared influential on chlorophyll-a. Mean chlorophyll-a levels recorded during the study ranged from 1.65 to 16.1 mg-1. Primary production determined from the light- dark bottle technique did not follow a marked seasonality, however values from offshore zones were generally higher than inshore zones. The gross primary production (G.P.P) levels recorded during the study ranged from 3.49 to 21.722 mgCm-2d-1. Most of the inhabitants engaged in activities within the catchment of Lake Bosomtwe used slash and burn method of land preparation and were oblivious of the impact of their activities on the water body. Little information on conservational processes to sustain the lake was available to the inhabitants.

Source: KNUST