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BIOTECHNOLOGY AND NUCLEAR AGRICULTURE RESEARCH INSTITUTE (BNARI)

ANNUAL REPORT

JANUARY – DECEMBER 2015

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1.0. A Profile of Biotechnology and Nuclear Agriculture Research Institute (BNARI)

1.1. Brief History

The Biotechnology and Nuclear Agriculture Research Institute (BNARI) was established in 1993 as one of

the research, and technology transfer institutes of the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, which was

established in 1963 by an act of Parliament (Act 204 of 1963). Under the Act 588 of 2000 (which replaced

Act 204 and PNDC Law 308), the Commission is empowered to create new institutes and commercialize

its research findings. The Biotechnology and Nuclear Agriculture Research Institute (BNARI) was

therefore established, in line with the new Act 588 of 2000, by upgrading the then Department of Biology,

Food and Agriculture of the National Nuclear Research Institute. The main objective of BNARI is to

peacefully apply nuclear and related biotechnologies for increased agricultural production, health, industrial

and economic development for poverty alleviation in Ghana.

1.2. Vision

To be Ghana’s leading public Institution that provides solutions to challenges in agriculture, health and

industry through exploration and exploitation of scientific knowledge in biotechnology and nuclear science.

1.3. Mission

BNARI exists to carry out research and development activities on safe applications of biotechnology and

nuclear science and transfer these technologies to end-users in order to enhance agricultural productivity,

health delivery and industrialization.

2.0. Centres of Biotechnology and Nuclear Agriculture Research Institute (BNARI)

BNARI is currently made up of five (5) Scientific Research Centres, namely:

Biotechnology Centre (BTC)

Nuclear Agriculture Centre (NAC)

Radiation Entomology and Pest Management Centre (REPMC)

Radiation Technology Centre (RTC)

Soil and Environmental Sciences Research Centre (SESRC)

In addition, a Technology Transfer Unit supports the socio-economic aspect of research activities as well

the commercial activities of the institute.

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Publication

Training

Library

ICT

Animal Biotech Lab

Food Biotech Lab

Plant Biotech Lab

Food and Medical

Lab

Polymers Lab

Dosimetry Lab

Animal science lab

Plant science lab

Soil science lab

Medical and

Veterinary Lab

Agric Ent. Lab

Socio - Economics

Extension Linkages

Commercialization

Administration

Accounts

2.1. ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE OF BNARI

GHANA ATOMIC ENERGY COMMISSION

BNARI MANAGEMENT BOARD

HEAD, FINANCE &

ADMINISTRATION INTERNAL AUDIT

AND

PROCUREMENT

MANAGER,

BIOTECHNOLOGY

CENTRE

MANAGER,

RADIATION

TECHNOLOGY

CENTRE

MANAGER,

NUCLEAR

AGRICULTURE

CENTRE

MANAGER,

TECHNOLOGY

TRANSFER CENTRE

MANAGER,

RADIATION

ENTOMOLOGY & PEST

MGT CENTRE

DIRECTOR

DEPUTY DIRECTOR

BIOSAFETY SUPPORT SERVICES

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2.3. Staff Strength

The staff of BNARI comprising of scientific, technologists/technicians as well as administrative

supporting staff are summarized in the Tables below:

Table 2.3.1. Directorate

No. Name Qualification Specialisation Designation

1 Prof. Kenneth E. Danso Ph.D. Tissue

Culture/Biotechnology

Director

2 Dr. Daniel K. Asare Ph.D. Agronomy/Soil

Science

Deputy Director

3 Mr. Theophilus Odame MA Labour Policy Studies

and Human Resource

Development

Administrator

4 Mr. Daniel Darko Asare MBA Accounting Accountant

5 Mr. Fidelis Dooda Derry MBA Finance Auditor

6 Mrs. Evelyn K. Duah BA Secretaryship/Human

Resource

Principal

Administrative

Assistant

7 Mr. Norbert Segbedzi BA Social Science Principal

Administrative

Assistant

8 Mr. Kingsley N. Asiedu RSA Stage

II/GCE-O-

Level

Accounting Senior Accounting

Assistant

9 Mr. Derek Appiah HND Accounting Senior accounting

Assistant

10 Mr. Moses Asamoah NAVET General Agriculture Senior Farm

Supervisor

11 Eunice Adomaa BA

(Information

Studies)

Library Library Assistant

12 Mr. Vincent Sackey City and Guild

(UK)

Electricals Technician

13 Mr. Kwadjo A. Okae Advanced Cert.

in Hardware

and Networking

Computer Hardware ICT Technician

14 Mr. John Boamah WASSCE Cleaner

15 Mr. David Otopeh M.S.L.C. Cleaner

Temporal staff

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No. Name Institution Position

1 Mr. Abubakari Suleman Accra Poly National Service Personnel

2 Mr. Timothy Wooley KNUST National Service Personnel

3 Mr. Jacob Lartey Blue Crest College National Service Personnel

4 Ms. Veronica Koranteng Accra Poly National Service Personnel

5. Ms. Elizabeth Avorgbedor UPS National Service Personnel

Biotechnology Centre (BTC)

Table 2.3.2.1 Staff

No. Name Qualification Rank

1 Samuel Amiteye PhD Senior Research Scientist

2 Vivian Oduro PhD Research Scientist

3 Wilfred Elegba MPhil Research Scientist

4 Elaine Azu MPhil Research Scientist

5 Andrew Sarkodie-Appiah MPhil Research Scientist

6 Nusrat Afful MPhil Research scientist

7 Jonathan Amponsah MPhil Assistant Research Scientist

8 Rosemary Kusi Adjei MPhil Assistant Research Scientist

9 Rhoda Gyinae Diawuoh MPhil Assistant Research Scientist

10 Abigail Asare MPhil Assistant Research Scientist

11 Doris Dzimega MPhil Assistant Research Scientist

12 Alex Asumeng Higher Diploma (U.K.) Principal Technologist

13 Christian Akama Diploma in Agriculture Senior Technologist

14 Clement Annor Diploma in Agriculture Senior Technologist

15 Prince Buertey Kpentey HND Technologist

16 Robert Appiah BSc Technologist

17 Solomon Otu BSc Technologist

18 Kwame Asare SSSCE Technician.

19 Seth Asare Bediako NVTI GD.II/Industrial

Electricity Part I

Technician

20 Elizabeth Amosah Stenographer Gd. II Principal Administrative Assist

21 Emmanuel Ofosu GCE ‘O’ Level Administrative Assistant

22 Vida Adu Afrakomaa SSSCE Production Assistant

23 Comfort Dzamesi SSSCE Production Assistant

24 Patience Asare SSSCE Production Assistant

25 Samuel Azure SSSCE Gardener

2.3.2.2. Staff on study leave

No. Name of Officer Date leave started Date leave ends Programme

1. Elaine Azu January, 2013 December, 2017 PhD Programme

2. Wilfred Elegba Sept., 2013 August, 2016 PhD Programme

3. Andrew Sarkodie-Appiah January, 2013 February, 2017 PhD Programme

4. Nusrat Afful September, 2014 October, 2018 PhD Programme

5. Patience Asare May, 2014 August, 2016 HND (Gen. Agric)

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2.3.2.3. Temporal Staff

No. Name University/Institution Position

1. Thomas Agyei Frimpong KNUST National Service Personnel

2. Courage Adobor UG Attachment

3. Blessing Esinam Kodjoe Accra Poly National Service Personnel

Nuclear Agriculture Centre (NARC)

Table 2.3.3.1. Staff

No. Name Qualification Rank/Designation

1 Godwin Amenorpe Ph.D. Senior Research Scientist

3 Mohammed Yaro M.Phil. Research Scientist

5 Emmanuel Q. Quartey M.Phil. Research Scientist

6 Joseph Nunoo M.Phil. Research Scientist

7 Wonder Nunekpeku M. Phil. Research Scientist

8 Matilda Owusu-Ansah M.Phil. Research Scientist

9 M. Quaynor-Addy SLT Higher Diploma Chief Technologist

10 G. Damnyag Gen. Cert. in Agric. (Vet.) Chief Technician

11 Joseph Kutufam Gen. Cert. in Agric Principal Technician

12 Maxwell Abive-Bortsi HND Principal Technician

13 Abraham Danso Cert. General Agric. Senior Farm Supervisor

14 Azure Akologo NIL Farm Overseer

15 Edward Aglago MSLC Farm Overseer

16 Samuel Donkor MSLC Farm Overseer

17 Kennedy Tetteh MSLC Farm Overseer

18 Nii Otu Lartey JSS Farm Overseer

19 Abraham Tettey Cert., General Agric. Farm Overseer

20 Nehemiah B. Naamie JSS Gardner

21 Jacob Azudaa - Tractor Operator

22 Yao Agbofa - Senior Headman

23 Fredrick Osae - Senior Headman

24 Beatrice Bayala Stenographer Gd I Senior Admin. Assistant

25 Emmanuel Gariba B.E.C.E Farm Hand 26 Francis Fendip B.E.C.E Farm Hand 27 Godfred Kudornu B.E.C.E Farm Hand 28 Isaac Afful B.E.C.E Farm Hand 29 Joseph Mensah B.E.C.E Farm Hand 30 Martin K. Sowah B.E.C.E Farm Hand 31 Moses Akwetey B.E.C.E Farm Hand 32 Moses Sogah B.E.C.E Farm Hand 33 Stephen Owula B.E.C.E Farm Hand 34 Paul Teye B.E.C.E Farm Hand 35 Sumaila Awudu B.E.C.E Farm Hand 36 Yussif Issah B.E.C.E Farm Hand

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Staff on study leave

No. Name of Officer Date leave started Date leave ends Programme

1 Mohammed Yaro October, 2014 September, 2017 PhD programme

2 Joseph Nunoo January, 2015 September 2016 PhD programme

3 Wonder Nunekpeku September, 2015 August 2018 PhD programe

4 Maxwell Abive-Bortsi September, 2014 August 2018 BSc (Animal Science)

Temporal staff

No. Name University/Polytechnic Position

1 Mr. A. K. Yeboah UCC National Service Personnel

2 Mr. W. Y. A. Soku Kpong-Tamale Vet College Voluntary Service

Staff promotions

Name New rank Previous rank Effective date

Edward Aglago Farm Overseer Farm Hand 1st January, 2015

Table 2.3.4. Radiation Entomology and Pest Management Centre

No. Name Qualification Rank

1. Prince Alexander Egyir Yawson PhD Senior Research Scientist

2. Michael Yao Osae PhD Senior Research Scientist

5. Selorm K. Ofori MPhil Research Scientist

6. Simon Yeboah MPhil Assistant Research Scientist

7. Dinah Marri MPhil Assistant Research Scientist

8. Kwabena Ekene Nwaefuna MSc Technologist

9. Francis Apaatah MPhil Technologist

10. Charles Asante G.C.E. O’ Level Principal Technician

11. Albert Nkumsah G.C.E. O’ Level Principal Technician

13. Ebenezer Tetteh Agbo HND/Diploma Technician

14. McDonald Akramah G.C.E. ‘O’ Level Senior Departmental Assistant

Temporal staff

No. Name University/Polytechnic Position

1. Augustina Ayitey HND Secretaryship National Service Personnel

Resignation

Dr. Prince Alexander Egyir Yawson, a senior research scientist reigned from the Commission

effectective 9th March, 2015.

Study leave

No. Name of Officer Date leave starts Date leave ends

1. Simon Yeboah August 2015 July 2019

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Table 2.3.5. Radiation Technology Centre (RTC)

No. Name Qualification Rank

1 Abraham Adu-Gyamfi, M. Phil Principal Research Scientist

2 Fidelis Ocloo PhD Senior Research Scientist

3 Franklin Apea Bah PhD Research Scientist

4 Selorm Agbamavor M. Phil Research Scientist

5 Mavis Owureku -Asare M. Phil Research Scientist

6 Joyce Agyei-Amponsah MPhil Research Scientist

7 Daniel Osei Ofosu M. Phil Asst. Research Scientist

8 Bernard Darfour M. Phil Asst. Research Scientist

9 Wellington Torgby-Tetteh M. Phil Asst. Research Scientist

10 Mr. Bernard Odai M. Phil Asst. Research Scientist

11 Adjoa K. Sarfo M. Phil Asst. Research Scientist

12 Leticia A. Twum M. Phil Asst. Research Scientist

13 Isaac K. Asare M. Phil Asst. Research Scientist

14 Isaaac Delali Kottoh M. Phil Asst. Research Scientist

15 Gabriel Kojo Frimpong M. Phil Asst. Research Scientist

16 Emmanuel K. Gasu M. Phil Asst. Research Scientist

17 Abena Akyaa Agyemang M. Phil Asst. Research Scientist

18 Dora Ofori Appiah M. Phil Asst. Research Scientist

19 Mr. E. Quarcoo B. Sc Asst. Research Scientist

20 Mr John Apatey B. Sc Principal Technologist

21 John B. Adom-Mensah HND Technologist

22 Daniel Larbi HND Technologist

23 Isaac Sylvester Adjei HND Technologist

24 Sylvester Annan HND Senior Technologist

25 Stanley A. Acquah HND Technologist

26 Jonathan Armah HND Technologist

27 Nii Odartey Mills Diploma Technician

28 Ms Comfort Mensah GS 1 Administrative Assistant

29 Ms Sadia Moro Diploma Senior Clerk

30 Mr. Robert Kumi BECE Dept. Assist. G.III

31 Mr. Micheal Asebogo Apany - Snr. Herdsman

Study leave

No. Name of Officer Date Leave Started Date Leave will end Programme

1. Bernard Dafour June, 2015 May, 2018 PhD

2. Mavis Owureku-

Asare

Aug, 2014 July, 2017 PhD

3. Bernard Odai August, 2013 July, 2017 PhD

4. Sadia Moro Sept., 2013 August, 2016 BA

Staff on fellowship

Name of Officer Date started End date Programme

Franklin Apea Bah August 2015 May, 2016 Collaborative Research

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Staff promotions during the year 2015

Name of Officer New Rank Previous Rank Effective date

Jonathan Okai Armah Snr Technologist Technologist January 2015

John Adom Bosco Snr Technologist Technologist January 2015

Sylvester Annan Snr Technologist Prin. Technologist January 2015

Soil and Environmental Science Resesearch Centre

Table 2.3.6. Staff

No. Name Qualification Rank

1. Emmanuel Ofori Ayeh MPhil Senior Research Scientist

2. Ebenezer A. Ewusie MSc. Research Scientist

3. Justice O. Frimpong MPhil Research Scientist

4. Samuel Nettey MSc. Assistant Research Scientist

5. Samuel Odei BSc. Admin. Princ. Admn. Assit.

6. Joshua Sintim BSc. Senior Technologist

7. Martin Dodobi BSc. Technologist

8. Rita Takyi Lartey BSc. Technologist

9. Ben Offei HND Lab. Tech Technologist

11. Kwasi Asare MLSC Labourer

12. Sampson Laar - Farm Hand

13. Amenope Stephen B.E.C.E Farm Hand

14. Gideon C.N. Bayor B.E.C.E Farm Hand

Temporal staff

No. Name University/Polytechnic Position

1. Richard Dwamena UDS National Service Personnel

Study Leave

No. Name of Staff Date Leave Started Date Leave will end Programme

1. Justice Okona Frimpong 12th September 2013 11 September 2017 PhD

2. Martin Tetteh Dodobi August 1, 2015 August 2017 MPhil.

Staff promotions

No. Name of Staff New rank Previous rank Effective date

1. Mr. Sampson Laar Farm hand Production assistant October 1, 2015

Table 2.3.7. Technology Transfer Unit

No. Name Qualification Rank

1 Kwamina E. Banson MSc. Research Scientist

2 Isaac Baidoo MPhil Research Scientist

3 Mr. Ebenezer Kondo B.Sc Technologist

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3.0 Summary Fiancial Report

3.1. Income and Expenditure

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5.0. RESEARCH ACTIVITIES AT BIOTECHNOLOGY AND NUCLEAR AGRICULTURE

INSTITUTE

5.1. BIOTECHNOLOGY CENTRE

5.1.1. Oil palm mutation breeding

Research Team: K.E. Danso, Rhoda Gyinae Diawuoh, Kwasi Adusei-Fosu, Wilfred Elegba, Christian

Akama, Wonder Nunepeku

Abstract:

Oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) is the source of the most sought-after edible oil in the world market.

Currently, all major commercial oil palms are F1 hybrids between pisifera and dura. The hybrids (tenera)

show high variations in oil yield with the best plants yielding 40% more than average. Mutations are the

main source of genetic variation and have the potential of producing desired genetic variants. Induced

mutagenesis through irradiation or chemical treatment has become a very important for plant breeding.

Since oil palm is a monocotyledonous perennial crop species that cannot be multiplied vegetatively. Tissue

culture has become the key method for multiplication of oil palm elite genotypes. An experiment was

conducted with the objective of determining the lethal dose at 50 of irradiated M2 oil palm nuts. This was

achieved by obtaining M2 nuts of oil palm and subjecting them to gamma radiation at different doses. The

doses used were 0, 10, 20, 30 50, 100, 200, 300, 400 and 600 Gy.

5.1.2. Mutation breeding in ornamental plants

Research Team: K.E. Danso, Samuel Amiteye, Abigail Tweneboah Asare, Elaine Azu , Clement Annor,

Stanley Annan, Jonathan Armah, Peter Davor

Abstract:

Mutation breeding has emerged as major and practical tool of plant improvement for decades and has

revolutionized the concept of plant breeding. Mutation breeding has been primarily used for the

improvement of cereals, pulses and other food crops. The introduction of this technique in improving the

ornamental crops has raised a hope of its application in the industrial and business sector. The release of

new mutant varieties in certain countries, Netherlands, Colombia, Kenya, India, Thailand, contributed

immensely to their economy growth. Both chemical and physical mutagens are used for mutation studies.

However, greater success has occurred with the use of physical mutagens especially gamma rays. Therefore

it’s use in this work. Stem cutting of immatured, semi-matured and matured parts of three different

ornamental plants; bougainvillea, izora and acarlypha has been radiated (50 and 100Gy). These were further

treated with rooting powder and planted in pots.

5.1.3. Heterotic studies and prediction of hybrid performance Research Team: Harry Amoatey, Samuel Amiteye, Abigail Tweneboah Asare, Elaine Azu

Abstract

Heterosis is a phenomenon that heterozygous first filial (F1) generation often has better performance than

their homozygous parents. Exploitation of heterosis is one of the most important applications of genetics in

agriculture. In this research, F1 hybrids obtained from artificial hybridization of several parent, which

performed better than their parents for yield components (number of roots per plant and total fresh weight)

has been planted to study the genetic basis heterotic nature and use both phenotypic and genetic data to

predict their performance.

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5.1.4. Development of somatic embryos for micropropagation of Khaya ivorensis (Chev.), Mahogany Research Team: Jonathan Amponsah, Nyantakyi Walnut, K.E. Danso

Abstract:

Khaya ivorensis, also known as African mahogany is a multipurpose timber species. Limited effort has

been made to mass propagate this species using modern biotechnology tools. This study therefore sought

to develop in-vitro techniques to mass produce plantlets of this species for cultivation through somatic

embryogenesis. Seeds harvested from freshly harvested fruits were cultured on Woody Perennial Medium

(WPM) supplemented with 2mg/l 2, 4-D and 0 – 4 mg/l BAP. Each treatment was replicated five times.

The cultures were incubated in a dark cabinet and monitored weekly, starting from the third weeks after

culture. Callus development was observed in all treatments four weeks after culture, by the sixth week the

highest percentage callus (40%) formation was observed on medium supplemented with 2 mg/l BAP and 2

mg/l 2,4 – D, with the least (25%) seen in 2 mg/l 2,4 – D with no BAP. The callus produced were bulked

and cultured on a medium supplemented with 2 mg/l BAP but no auxin, and incubated under low light of

about 1000 lux. Sixty percent of the cultures turned green by the third week after bulking. Four weeks later,

10% of the cultures with greening calli developed rosette plantlets with broad leaves.

5.1.5. Gelling potential of cassava starch in culture medium Research Team: Samuel Amiteye, Abigail Tweneboah Asare, Clement Annor, Solomon Otu

Abstract

Media for in vitro cultures are either solid or liquid. Gelling agents are added to culture medium to increase

viscosity and to prevent explants from submerging in medium. Most culture media use agar as gelling agent,

however agar is the most expensive media component. Cassava starch which possess the same gelatinous

properties as agar could be a much cheaper gelling agent. Cassava is the most cultivated crop in Ghana and

contains high amount of starch. Extraction of starch from cassava is not difficult therefore making it readily

available. Pure cassava starch forms a gelatinous matrix, odourless, paste clarity, stickiness and low

impurities like proteins and lipids. Due to gelling ability of cassava starch, its use was employed in the

micro-propagation of four crops: pineapple, sweet potatoes, plantain and cassava. Phytagel and cassava

starch were the two gelling agents that were used. Different amounts of starch were used while, phytagel

was maintained at standard concentrations. Inoculation was carried out in sterile laminar flow hood under

aseptic conditions. Data on in vitro plantlet performance was started two weeks after inoculation and on

two weeks intervals for six weeks. Data is yet to be analyzed.

5.1.6. Sources of microbial contamination in tissue culture laboratory of the Biotechnology Centre

(BNARI) in Ghana

Research Team: K. E. Danso, Samuel Amiteye, Vivian Oduro, Daniel K. Asare, Abigail Tweneboah Asare,

Adu-Gyamfi, Daniel Larbi, Isaac Quansah, Solomon Otu

Abstract:

Microbial contamination is a constant problem, which often compromise development of all in vitro

techniques. Plant tissues culture techniques have immensely contributed to mass propagation of plant from

very small pieces of ex-plant in relatively very short time. The nutrient media used in cultures are a good

source of nutrient for microbial growth. The presence of these microbes in these plant cultures usually

results in increased culture mortality, the presence of latent infections can also result in variable growth,

tissue necrosis, reduced shoot proliferation and reduced rooting. Usually the practices of tissue culture are

done under aseptic conditions to minimize contamination, yet contamination has been reported as constant

problem, which can compromise development of all in vitro techniques. Since these microbes adversely

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affect in vitro production of plants, there is therefore the need to study how they infect tissue cultures and

find solutions to cub them. Sampling involved tissue culture vessels, walls and working benches

(preparation, inoculation, and growth), the air in tissue culture rooms and skin swab of the laboratory staff

and culturing on four different media; Eosin methyl blue (EMB), Oxytracycline-gluocose yeast extract

agar (OGYEA), Plate count agar (PCA) and Peptone water. No bacteria or fungi were found, only yeast

cells were isolated.

5.1.7. Evaluation of sweet potato leaf curl virus on yield of five elite sweet potato varieties

Research Team: Jonathan Amponsah, Nusrat Afful, Rosemary Kusi-Adjei, Christian Ankamah, Clement

Annor

Abstract:

Sweet potato (Ipomea batatas) is gaining prominence as a food security crop. But this role is being

threatened by virus infestation. Notable among them is the sweet potato leaf curl virus (SPLCV) which has

been reported to reduce yield considerably. However, the extent of yield reduction in the local cultivars has

not been ascertained. Therefore, this work aimed at evaluating the effect of SPLCV on yield of two elite

local cultivars and three elite exotic cultivars. Field grown plants were tested in the laboratory for the virus

by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) using two sets of primers SPG1/SPG2 and SPG3/SPG4. Ten plants

of each cultivar were tested, out of which more than 80% of the plants sampled tested positive for the virus.

Mersitems of the infected plants were isolated and used to initiate callogenesis, the calli were then used to

generate somatic embryos, from which plantlets were developed. Less than 40% of all plantlets tested after

meristem culture were found to be virus free. This confirmed that meristem culture is able to eliminate

SPLCV from infected plants but the rate is low. Further work is ongoing on ascertaining the effect of the

virus on the yield of sweet potato cultivars and some biological studies of the virus in susceptible host

Ipomea setose.

5.1.8. Identification of begomoviruses naturally occurring in some weeds species in the Greater Accra

Region of Ghana Research Team: Rosemary Kusi-Adjei, Andrew Sarkodie Appiah, Abigail Tweneboah Asare, Robert

Appiah

Abstract

Weeds are distributed throughout the world and have high environmental adaptability. They are considered

as sources of new viruses and reservoirs of unidentified economically important viruses but are often

neglected during diversity studies. Many scientific reports suggest that weeds are the potential sources of

primary inoculums of begomoviruses and play an important role as reservoir or alternative host for the virus

survival and spread in the absence of the main crop. Thus, there is a pressing need for additional information

on the diversity and distribution of begomovirus associated weeds, which likely serve as reservoir. In this

study, seven farms around the Dome-Kwabenya environs were visited in September, 2014. Leaf samples

from weed species exhibiting typical begomovirus infection such as golden mosaic symptoms were

collected for DNA extraction and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). Ten plants each belonging to

different weed species were sampled from each farm. Total genomic DNA was extracted from the leaves

using the CTAB based method of extraction according to Lodhi et al., (1994). DNA extracted from the

weed species were used in PCR using five sets of designed primer pairs which amplified begomoviral DNA.

PCR amplifications using three of the primers in all the weed samples showed that four of the weed species

were natural reservoirs of begomoviruses and these could have major implications in disease spread on

most crops of economic importance in Ghana.

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5.2. NUCLEAR AGRICULTURE CENTRE

5.2.1. Development of high carotenoid cassava mutant Research Team: Amenorpe Godwin in collaboration with Cassava Breeding Unit, IITA

Abstract Eighty percept (80%) of total carotenoid content in yellow flesh cassava root is beta-carotene, a pre-cursor

for vitamin A production in consumers. Beta carotene also has anti-oxidant properties for prevention of

cancer and miscarriages in communities where access to Vitamin A supplement is a major challenge.

Vitamin A is needed by the retina for normal function. Lack of vitamin A causes blindness especially in

children and pregnant women. Hybridization is the main method for breeding cassava for useful traits but

higher levels of hybridization cause yield profile to plateau due to narrow genetic diversity. To increase

genetic diversity, 4,500 open pollinated yellow flesh cassava seeds were acutely radiated with 250Gy before

plating in June, 2014. After one year, M1V1 roots were analysed with colour chart and I-Check methods.

Two (2) putative mutants were discovered with at least 64% rise in carotenoid levels. The results showed

that mutagenesis has the propensity to 1. Increase the genetic diversity of yellow flesh cassava in Ghana;

2. Increase Beta carotene level through shutting down of β-carotene hidroxylase (b-HYD) which further

process β-carotene into other metabolites (that may end up producing absicic acid). 3. Shorten the varietal

release period because such discovery should have taken at least eight (8) years with a conventional

breeding method. Therefore, a target of 15ppm set by IITA and Harvest-plus for carotenoid contents in

cassava has been achieved through the first trial of mutagenesis.

5.2.2. IITA Regional clonal evaluation trial of elite yellow fleshed cassava genotypes Research Team: Amenorpe Godwin in collaboration with Cassava Breeding Unit, IITA

Abstract

Nuclear Agriculture Research Centre (NARC) at BNARI/GAEC, Crop Research Institute (CRI) and

Savannah Agriculture Research Institute (SARI) of CSIR received five cuttings each of the fourteen (14)

elite yellow fleshed cassava genotypes (IITA-TMS-IBA-11412; IITA-TMS-IBA-11797; IITA-TMS-IBA-

61635; IITA-TMS-IBA-70539; IITA-TMS-IBA-70593; IITA-TMS-IBA-82264; IITA-TMS-IBA-82461;

IITA-TMS-IBA-83594; IITA-TMS-IBA-83703; IITA-TMS-IBA-83724; IITA-TMS-IBA-83774; IITA-

TMS-IBA-85392; IITA-TMS-IBA-90090 and IITA-TMS-IBA-90151) for Regional Clonal Evaluation

Trials in June, 2014. National Agricultural Research (NAR) and PARTNERS in Africa are also

collaborating with IITA to evaluate incidence and severity of Cassava Mosaic Disease (CMD), Cassava

Green Mite (CGM), Cassava Bacteria Blight (CBB), Cassava Anthracnose Disease (CAD), yield and dry

matter of cassava roots across nations. The design used was RCBD with 1 x 10 m the plot size. The 14

genotypes were observed to be resistance to CMD from 3-12 MAP. There was no CGM, CBB and CAD

incidence and severity for the 14 genotypes at 3-12 MAP.

5.2.3. Radiosensitivity test of maize genotypes Research Team: Amenorpe Godwin in collaboration with School of Agriculture, UCC

Abstract

Maize streak virus Disease (MSVD) is economically the most important foliar disease of maize in Africa

which causes 30 to 100% yield loss. It is widely distributed throughout sub-Saharan Africa and a threat to

Africa’s subsistence farmers as many traditionally open-pollinated maize varieties are susceptible. Maize

streak virus is transmitted to maize plants by virus-infected leafhoppers. Mutation breeding which is the

ultimate source of genetic variations is being explored as a mean to create maize mutants with desirable

traits to breed against the MSVD. Radiosensitivity test was therefore carried on six (6) genotypes of maize

(Zea mays) widely cultivated in the Volta Region of Ghana to determine the effect of gamma radiation on

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germination percentage, seedling height, root length and % field survival.The result indicates that ionizing

radiation effect depends on maize plant genotype. Increasing doses of gamma irradiation above 350 Gy

caused severe physiological damage on germination % seedling height, root length and % field survival.

5.2.4. Development of Maize Streak Resistant mutants

Research Team: Amenorpe Godwin in collaboration with School of Agriculture, UCC

Abstract

A field survey was conducted in all districts of the Volta Region in 2014 and Nkwanta South District was

observed to be the hot spot for Maize Streak Virus Disease (MSVD). Mass irradiation of 5kg each of

Obatampa, Pannar 53, Dapango and Hunampa were carried out with an acute dose of 270 Gy to generate

M1 seeds. The M1 seeds were planted with controls at Kpong University Farm under irrigation in January,

2015. The selected variants were selfed at Kpong to generate 400 MSV resistant variant hosts with M2

seeds. The M2 seeds were tested at the hot spot (Agricultural Research Station in Nkwanta South District

of the Volta Region of Ghana) in the major season (June-Sept., 2015) and putative mutants were selected

as M3 seeds. The M3 seeds were re-planted and selfed for improved level of resistance and genetic purity at

the same hot spot station in the minor season (October - December, 2015). Elite maize streak resistant M4

plants were tagged for harvesting as M4 seeds in December, 2015.

5.2.5. Artificial chromosome doubling in very high carotenoid cassava

Research Team: Godwin Amenorpe, Doris Dzimega, Anthony Kwesi Yeboah

Abstract

Colchicine is a plant alkaloid that works as a mitotic inhibitor. Colchicine disrupts mitosis by binding to

tubulins immediately after one copy of each chromosome is made. In this way, the formation of

microtubules and polar migration of microtubules is inhibited. The result is a single cell with double

chromosome number. If a plant is a diploid, it becomes tetraploid when its chromosomes are doubled. Since

cassava has a total chromosome number of 32, a doubled chromosome number for cassava shall be 64.

Healthy cassava stem cuttings with about 6 nodes each were planted in soil in polythene bags and allowed

to sprout. One to two sprouted buds were treated per cutting using cotton swab with the colchicine solution.

They are then wrapped with parafilm and treated for 24 hours. Moistening was done at intervals. Buds were

washed with water using a wash bottle. The treated buds are later marked and left to grow. Signs of

induction were observed on two yellow flesh cassava sprouts after 21 days of treatment. The putative mutant

leaves shape became oblanceolate, broader and thicker than the lanceolate leaves of the control. Double

chromosome plant can perform better on the field. This is the first time double chromosome technology has

been successful in Ghana.

5.2.6. Evaluation of F6 breeding lines of tomato (Solanum lycopersicon L.)

Research Team: H. M. Amoatey, Wonder Nunekpeku, Joseph Nunoo, Rosemary Kusi-Adjei

Abstract

Tomato production in Ghana has been on the decline over the past decade. Production constraints have

largely been attributed to poor seed quality (which often leads poor fruit quality) and high incidence of

diseases. A hybridization programme was thus embarked upon to mitigate some of these challenges. Field

evaluation has been carried out to the sixth filial generation. The objective of the study was to evaluate

these hybrids in order to select pure lines for further assessment and multi-locational trials. Some selected

hybrid lines exhibited superior performance against control varieties with reference to earliness, fruit

colour, fruit shape and yield.

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5.2.7. Mutation induction in oil palm for high yield, drought tolerance and semi-dwarfism Project Team: Kenneth Ellis Danso, Vivian Oduro, Rhoda Diawuo

Abstract

Palm oil accounts for over 35% of the global edible oil production. Recently, there has been an increase in

the demand for low cost but high quality oil for both domestic and industrial use. This coupled with increase

in human population growth is steadily pushing palm oil production up. Though yield per unit area of oil

palm relatively higher than other oil crops, increases in production have mainly been obtained from

increasing total land area cultivated due to static varietal yields which range from 2-10 t/ha/year. One

suggested, principal means of increasing yield of oil palm is cloning, which involves identification of elite

genotypes and multiplying them in vitro for commercial production. Induced mutations also offer the

opportunity for developing mutants which exhibit superior agronomic performances. The general objective

of this proposed research is to induce variability in an adapted oil palm genotype and develop efficient

methods for in vitro screening and regeneration. In vitro irradiation dose optimization showed optimal

survival of in vitro seedlings at 10Gy and 20 Gy. Results are yet to be analysed to determine LD50 needed

for mass irradiation of nuts for screening.

5.2.8. Improving internal communication within the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, GAEC,

using social and mobile phone mediated strategies Project Team: Matilda Owusu-Ansah2, Sheila V. Gbormittah, Mr. Felix Adeku, Innocent J.K. Aboh,

Samuel B. Dampare, Emmanuel O. Darko, Daniel K. Asare, Rose Boatin, Francis G. Ofosu, Nana A.

Browne Klutse Browne, Clement Aboagye-Ampah, Caleb Owulah, James Kuofi, Emmanuel N. Tackie,

Raymond Agalga

Abstract

The Ghana Atomic Energy Commission recognizes 2015 and beyond as the years for smart internal

communication. Hence, the Commission is poised to collaborate technology into her internal

communication planning strategies. The Office of the Deputy Director-General working in collaboration

with the Human Resource Department, and the Information Technology Centre aspire to improve efficient

internal communication in the short-medium term (up to 5 years). Specifically, corporate GAEC has started

communicating using SMS alerts (text messaging) in addition to emails, memos, circulars and interactions

at quarterly durbars. The main objective of this internal communication strategy is to: improve efficient

internal communication in the short-medium term. In future, intranet, and group social networking would

be added to realize the full benefits of sharing information efficiently, creating smart impact, soliciting staff

participation and support. This paper reports on a preliminary survey conducted at the first durbar held on

10th April, 2015 by the Strategic Communication Planning Committee. The baseline information from the

preliminary survey suggested that, it is 100% likely for management to reach 91% of employees with their

messages through mobile phone devices.

5.2.9. Evaluations of Some Selected Dietary Supplements Research Team: Matilda Owusu-Ansah, Harry M. Amoatey, Daniel K. Asare, Ebenezer Kondo,Mavis

Owureku-Asare, Daniel Osei Ofosu, Abraham Adu Gyamfi, Nash Owusu Benstil, Eva Tabuaa, Michael

Ackah, David Kpeglo, George Y.P. Klu

Abstract

Food, drugs, and dietary supplements all have the potential of becoming contaminated. Some foods (e.g.,

poultry, soft cheese, meat, and fish) are particularly vulnerable. Although contamination of dietary

supplements is extremely rare, it is helpful to be aware of possible causes so that outbreaks are

prevented. Contamination can occur anywhere in the production of dietary supplement cycle.

Manufacturers’ practices such as testing of materials, regular cleaning of machinery, and tracking of

materials by lot number are used to ensure purity. Additionally, standardized good manufacturing practices

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(GMPs) which include guidelines for ensuring cleanliness are all means of ensuring that dietary

supplements remain uncontaminated. The objectives of this research were to assess the composition of

essential minerals, detect presence of heavy metals (minerals) which contribute to mineral contamination

in dietary supplements, evaluate the safety of consuming these supplements and to evaluate the reasons of

using the supplements among the workforce at Ghana Atomic Energy Commission. So far, the survey

questionnaire has been previewed, the samples (noni juice, noni nectar, trevo, greens-on-the-go, and

cellgevity) are undergoing analysis at the Atomic Absorption Spectrometry and Alpha spectrometry

laboratories of NNRI and RPI respectively. The results would be analyzed, interpreted and published.

5.3. RADIATION ENTOMOLOGY AND PEST MANAGEMENT CENTRE

5.3.1. Reproduction of protein hydrolysate bait using local brewery sources to alleviate fruit menace

for mango farmers

Research Team: Michael Osae, Ebenezer Ato Ewusie, Alexander Egyir-Yawson, Manya Krobo District

Mango Farmers Union

Abstract

The main objectives of the project were to: Design, fabricate, set up and produce protein bait to supply to

farmers and train farmers in the field application of the bait for effective control of fruit flies. The project

was originally scheduled to end in 2014 but several set-backs, chief of which was the under-estimation of

a major component of the plant (steam boiler) resulted in a delay of the project. Efforts through 2014 and

2015 have been geared towards sourcing additional funding to complete the project. Proposals were sent to

SDF/ COTVET and the Export Trade, Agricultural and Industrial Development (EDAIF) Fund for support.

In October this year, EDAIF responded favourably, granting an amount of Gh 369,523.11 to cover the

procurement of a 1100 kPa Steam Boiler, Bait Phase Separation System and Papain Enzyme. The

component for the procurement of the steam boiler was Gh 226,963.11, which falls short of the invoiced

amount of Euro 77,003.00 (Gh 320,124.57). The project team together with the Director of BNARI is in

consultation with EDAIF to reconcile the amount. Efforts are underway to ensure SDF/COTVET releases

the second tranche of the original funding and a new work plan is being developed to indicate the timelines

for implementation of the project. It is hoped that the project will run to a successful end by close of 2016.

5.3.2. Development of larval diet for mass rearing of African invader fruit flies, Bactrocera dorsalis

(Hendel) (Diptera: Tephritidae).

Research Team: Selorm Ofori, Simon Yeboah, Dinah Marri, Albert Nkumsah, Francis Apaatah, Michael

Osae

Abstract

The objectives of the study were to prepare fruit fly larval diets from different sources in laboratory

conditions and secondly to determine the effects of different larval diets on the developmental stages of

Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) (Diptera: Tephritidae). Two artifical diets (Standard Seibersdorf diet and

Soybean protein) were compared to three natural fruit diets (Matured Mango fruits, Ripe banana fruits and

Matured orange fruits). First instar larvae from a B. dorsalis colony being maintained at

REPMC/BNARI/GAEC was used to evaluate the diets. Each diet set up was inoculated with about hundred

(100) freshly hatched fruit fly larvae and labelled. The developing larvae were inspected daily and any

significant observation recorded. Fully developed larvae were counted and put in sand to pupate. The

number of days taken to pupate, number pupated, size, weight, colour and pupal weight were recorded. The

pupae were then transferred into emerging glass jars with mesh covering. The number of days taken to

emerge into adult was recorded and flies separated according to sex, into different cages. After ten (10)

days, adult flies were mated in cages. Eggs were harvested 3 days after mating. Adult morphometric (body

18

size, wing span and adult weight) was taken. Laboratory conditions were monitored and recorded

appropriately. Selected adult flies were put in a cage without diet (but with water) and monitored till they

die of starvation to determine their energy reserve carried over from the larval stage. Results show that,

Soybean diet produced the highest fruit fly pupae of 60, followed by mango fruit with 23 pupae. The

standard Seibersdorf diet produced the least pupae of 5.

5.3.3. Feasibility studies for the use of trap-irradiate-release strategy for the control of Bactrocera

dorsalis

Research Team: Dinah Marri, Selorm Ofori, Albert Nkumsah, Francis Apaatah, Simon Yeboah, Michael

Osae

Abstract:

Fruit flies remain a major constraint to the development of the fruit end vegetable components of Ghana's

agriculture. REPMC has been developing several control strategies based on sound scientific research. This

project aims at developing a novel approach to the control of fruit flies in line with the sterile insect

technique (SIT) called Trap-Irradiate-Release (TIR). Two different traps were evaluated for collecting live

B. dorsalis and assessing the survival of trapped flies in the laboratory. A well known standard fruit fly trap

(McPhail™ Trap) was evaluated against a novel eco-friendly trap (Ecoman™ Trap) on the BNARI mango

plantation. The traps were evaluated for their catch, survival of trapped flies in the field and life-span of

trapped flies in the laboratory. The results indicate that the Ecoman Trap performs better at collecting and

retaining live flies than the McPhail Trap. Flies collected in the Ecoman Trap also showed longer life-span.

It was also evident from the results that the morning and evening hours are best for collecting live flies than

the afternoon hours. With a survival of up to 50% of trapped flies for over a month, it is possible to carry

out the next phase of the project, which will focus on irradiation and performance studies on trapped male

flies.

5.3.4. Fruit fly Control Technology Dissemination and Capacity Building of West African Fruit Value

Chains Stakeholders

Research Team: Maxwell K. Billah, Millicent A. Cobblah, Akwasi Mensah-Bonsu, Michael Osae

Abstract This is a sub regional collaborative project that includes Benin, Burkina Faso, Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana,

Guinea, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, and Togo (with observer status and limited activities). With fruit

flies considered as quarantine pests, and more so because of their invasive nature, no single country in the

sub region can sufficiently fight the menace, and therefore the need to come together to have a joint front,

harmonize management strategies and share information for our common good. The objectives of the project

are (i) Identify best bet options to control fruit flies (“IPM package”), (ii) Build capacities of agents involved

in data collection in the implementation of a baseline study of the project, (iii) Design and fine-tune teaching

materials for adoption, Harmonize and share information for a common sub regional strategy, (iv) Ensure

Dissemination and adoption of methodologies to stakeholders in member states, (v) Draw value chain maps

and carry out focus group and individual surveys, with direct and indirect stakeholders of the mango value

chain and (vi) Understand indicators on Governance, Performance, Equity/Gender, Sustainability, Capacity

building and strengthening the environment. The Ghana component of the project is coordinated by the

Department of Animal Biology and Conservation Sciences and was officially launched on the 8th of April,

2015. Since the project launch, the team has trained ten (10) enumerators made up of national service

persons and graduate students and successfully carried out baseline data collection on fruit fly control

technology in five regions of Ghana. The data for the baseline studies is being analyzed and reports will be

submitted to the regional coordination unit (FSA-UAC) and also to national stakeholders. The next phase

of the project will involve training of mango farmers across the country on fruit fly control technologies

19

and linking major players along the mango value chain for sustainable fruit fly control technology

dissemination.

5.3.5. Perceptions and practices of herbicide use among peri urban vegetable farmers in selected hubs

of the Accra plains

Research Team: Selorm Ofori, Simon Yeboah, Francis Apaatah, Joshua Sintim, Emmanuel Ofori-Ayeh,

Michael Osae

Abstract

Three peri-urban farming zones in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana were surveyed. The survey was

conducted using questionnaires and interviews in the study areas to know the perceptions and practices of

herbicides use among peri-urban vegetable farmers. The herbicides used were Round up with Glyfosinate

ammonium as active ingredients, Kwatriqua with Paraquat as active ingredient. Majority of the farmers

observed precautionary measures such as wearing boots, overall and nose masks when applying the

herbicides. All the farmers agreed to using herbicides in the land preparation of their farms. About 70% of

the farmers make 20% economic returns after herbicide applications. Equal numbers of the farmers use

contact and selective herbicide in spraying their farms. Farmers select herbicides based on their quick action

and effectiveness in killing the weeds. The findings of the study show that the perceptions and practices of

the farmers on herbicide use still need to be improved, their attitude is also still negative.

5.3.6. Evaluating the Impact of Synthetic Herbicides on Soil Dwelling Organisms in Agro-Ecosystems Research Team: Osae, M, Ofori-Ayeh, E, Ofori, E. S. K, Okona-Frempong, J

Abstract:

The study was aimed at evaluating the impact of herbicides on soil-dwelling organisms. It was carried out

at the BNARI research farm, on a portion that had not been cultivated for at least three years. It is assumed

that three years is long enough time for the soil ecosystem to regenerate and maintain some level of

equilibrium. Three different herbicide active ingredients in commercial formulations were evaluated. Three

different types of herbicides namely Glyphosate, Paraquat Dichloride and Dimethyl ammonium containing

at least one of each of the common active ingredients were tested against manual weed control in completely

randomised design with three replications. The field was left to stand for three weeks after ploughing for

weeds to begin to grow and soil macro-organisms allowed to recover from the mechanical stress of

ploughing. A 10 cm corer was used to sample soil to the depth of 20 cm. The field was treated for weed

control using the different herbicides and manual weeding. The designated weed control method for each

plot was applied throughout the cropping season anytime weeds come up. Soil samples were taken for

assessment of soil dwelling organisms on weekly basis till the end of the season. The sampled soil was

spread on a clean tray for collection and identification of the different arthropod species. Any unidentified

arthropod/macro-organism found was collected into 70% alcohol in a vial and labelled. The sampled

arthropod/macro-organisms were identified to at least genus level using identification keys. At the end of

the study, the extent to which the evaluated herbicides affect soil dwelling organisms will be established.

This data will be useful towards the development of policies on herbicides use and biodiversity conservation

on agro-ecosystems.

5.3.7. Evaluating pollinator best practices in mango systems

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Research Team: C.E. Annoh, M.A. Cobblah, M. Osae, B. Boateng, E.A. Ewusie, P.K. Kwapong

Abstract:

This project is the final part of the Global Pollination Project Ghana. The overall aim of the project was to

assess the pollination needs of major crops in Ghana and to come up with a list of important pollinators of

those major crops as well as best practices to conserve those pollinators. The project focused on fruit crops

(mango) in the Dodowa/Somanya mango enclave, Vegetables stationed at Mankesim and Tree crops

(Cocoa) stationed at Tafo. I was part of the team that carried out the project in the Dodowa/Somanya mango

enclave. The final part which was carried out in 2015 focused on evaluating some pollinator best practices

vis: judicious use of agrochemicals, leaving natural reserves near farms, placing bee hives close to farms

and leaving undergrowth that will attract pollinators. Field work has been completed and the data is being

analysed. Meanwhile, it has been realised that mango produces so much flowers but very few are fertilized

and even with those fertilized, a lot more are aborted leaving a minimum that the plant can bear. Pollination

was highest on farms where bee hive were close and where insecticide spraying was avoided during the

flowering period.

5.3.8. Trypanosome prevalence in pigs and Tsetse flies from selected areas of Jomoro district of the

Western Region of Ghana

Research Team: Francis Apatah, , Alexander Egyir-Yawson, Ekene Nwaefuna, Michael Osae, Langbong

Bimi, Fred Aboagye-Antwi

Abstract:

This study was aimed at assessing the prevalence of trypanosomes in pigs and tsetseflies using molecular

techniques. An entomological survey was conducted using bi-conical traps for the collection of tsetse flies

in the study area. DNA was isolated from 300 flies and subjected to PCR for trypanosome detection and

identification. A total of 300 pigs were randomly selected from the study population. Two microliters of

blood was collected, Packed Cell Volume (PCV) of each animal was measured using a micro-haematocrit

reader. Fifty microliters of pig blood was spotted on a filter paper and trypanosomes detected using PCR.

An overall prevalence of trypanosomes in the study area was 4.33% and 0.77% for pigs and tsetse flies

respectively. Mixed infection between Trypanosoma congolense Forest and Trypanosoma vivax showed

the highest prevalence (46.15%) of trypanosome species followed by Trypanosoma vivax (15.38%), while

Trypanosoma congolense and a mixed infection of Trypanosoma congolense, Trypanosoma vivax and

Trypanosoma brucei gambiense were the least with (7.70%) each. Mean PCV of parasitaemic pigs

(29.33%) was significantly lower than that of aparasitaemic pigs (37.75%). The entomological survey

showed that Glossina palpalis palpalis was the only tsetse specie found in the area with fly apparent density

of 18.36 fly/trap/day. Detection of trypanosomes in tsetse or domestic livestock is a basic requirement for

epidemiological studies as well as for planning and implementing control measures. Therefore, this result

provides useful background information for further study to delimit the southern Tsetse zones of Ghana.

5.3.9. Salinity tolerance of Anopheles gambiae sensu stricto

Research Team: E. K. Nwaefuna, M. Osae, I B. Ibalafake and F. Gbogbo

Abstract:

Anopheles gambiae sensu stricto is a part of the Anopheles gambiae complex comprising of

indistinguishing mosquitoes of the Genus Anopheles. It is an important vector of malaria in sub-Saharan

Africa particularly of the most dangerous malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum. An. gambiae s.s

completes its life cycle in water and it is believed that a change in physicochemical parameter (salinity) of

water affects egg laying and perhaps the development of eggs to maturity. The laboratory population was

formed from larvae and pupae collected from different sites in Okyereko irrigation community and

21

Adawukwa in the central region of Ghana. It involved creation of an artificial environment using various

concentration of saline water for laying of eggs and development of larvae to adult. There was no significant

difference in the number of eggs laid across the various saline media (F=1.534, df =32, P value =0.193, F

crit. = 2.297). There was a significant difference in the number of eggs hatched in the various saline media

(F=3.389, df = 32, P value = 0.008, F crit= 2.297). An. gambiae s.s had no ovipositional preference to any

saline media but effect of salinity was evident in egg development and morphology of emerged adult. These

findings raise serious concerns vis–a–vis climate change.

5.4. RADIATION TECHNOLOGY CENTRE

5.4.1. Characterization and possible utilization of Spondias purpurea (Anacardiaceae) grown in

GAEC Research Team: Joyce Agyei-Amponsah. Mavis Owureku- Asare, Selorm Agbemavor, Mahami Tahiru,

Gabriel Frimpong, Emmanuel Gasu, Adwoa Sarfo, Franklin Apea Bah and Fidelis C.K. Ocloo

Abstract:

The main purpose of this research was to characterize Spondias purpurea (Anacardiaceae), growing wild

in the environs of Ghana Atomic Energy Commission and develop value-added products from the fruits.

The objective of the present study was to determine physicochemical properties of the pulps and peels of

the Spondias spp. Spondia spp were harvested, sorted, cleaned and separated into pulp and peel. The pulps

and peels were then analyzed for moisture, pH, Brix, TTA and colour using suitable methods. The pulp had

the highest moisture content of 86.83 % as expected. The pulp had values of 14.7 %, 3.31, and 0.72 % for

brix, pH and TTA, respectively. From the results obtained, the pulp appeared to be yellowish red whilst the

peels were more inclined to greenish red and less yellow hence the physical purplish red colour. In the

future, the pulp and peel will be freeze-dried, ground to the consistency of flour, stored and then analyzed.

The project is on-going.

5.4.2. Effects of gamma irradiation on functional and pasting properties of black fonio (Digitaria

iburua)

Research Team: 1Agbemavor W. S. K., 1Agyei-Amponsah J., 1Ocloo F. C. K., 1Owureku-Asare M., 1Torgby-Tetteh W., 2Afram Y., 1Apatey J., and 1Ayeh E. A., 3Tortoe C. 1Radiation Technology Centre (RTC), BNARI, GAEC 2School of Nuclear and Allied Sciences, GAEC 3Food Research Institute (FRI), CSIR

Abstract:

Fonio is a traditional cereal, which has often occupied a marginal position as far as research is concerned

in spite of its numerous nutritional qualities over other cereals. Though the fonio grains do not suffer insect

pest attack on the field, they are sometimes infested during storage; thereby reducing the crops nutritional

and market values. The main objective of this research was to determine the effects of gamma irradiation

on some functional and pasting properties of two varieties of fonio grown in Ghana. In the present study,

one variety of fonio grains (Digitaria iburua) was investigated. Fonio grains were milled, sieved, packaged

and irradiated at 0, 0.75, 1.00, 1.25 and 1.50 kGy. The samples were then analyzed for some functional and

pasting properties. With the exception of swelling power, gamma irradiation had significant (p

22

Research Team: 1Agbemavor W. S. K., 1Agyei-Amponsah J., 1Ocloo F. C. K., 1Owureku-Asare M., 1Torgby-Tetteh W., 2Afram Y., 1Apatey J., and 1Ayeh E. A., 3Tortoe C. 1Radiation Technology Centre (RTC), BNARI, GAEC 2School of Nuclear and Allied Sciences, GAEC 3Food Research Institute (FRI), CSIR

Abstract:

The main objective of this part of the study was to determine the effects of gamma irradiation on some

proximate, elemental composition and the gross energy values of two varieties of fonio grown in Ghana. In

the present study, one variety of fonio grains (Digitaria iburua) was used. Fonio grains were milled, sieved,

packaged and irradiated at 0, 0.75, 1.00, 1.25 and 1.50 kGy. The samples were analyzed for proximate,

some elemental composition, dry matter and the gross energy values. The gross energy values, dry matter,

crude protein, fat, ash, fibre and total carbohydrate contents of the gamma irradiated fonio samples ranged

from 216.55 – 237.52kJ/100g; 87.93 – 88.19%; 10.42 – 11.92%; 3.74 – 4.41%; 1.26 – 1.71%, 6.14 – 8.62%

and 74.84 – 76.72%, respectively. Gamma irradiation had significantly (p

23

Research Team: Fidelis C.K. Ocloo, Seth Agyakwah, Christopher Teye-Gaga, Ebenezer Ewusie, Benjamin

Ofie, Henry K. Hackman, Godfred K. Ofosu-Budu, Eric. Nartey, Kenneth Danso, Stamer Andreas and

Noah Adamtey

Abstract:

Animal feed production has been reported to strongly rely on protein and fat derived from forage fishery.

Research has shown that, about 46 % of fishmeal and fish oil are mainly used worldwide for intensive food

production for aquaculture. The stability of fish feed is critical during storage. Shelf life of feed could be

influenced by the composition of the feed, the packaging material and the storage conditions. It is therefore

imperative to evaluate the quality of the dried, milled and packaged black soldier fly larvae fish feed. The

nutritional composition of black soldier fly larvae, makes it a promising substrate for producing shelf-stable

fish feeds for aquaculture farming in Ghana. The objective of the present study is to determine the

appropriate method for drying black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) for the development of shelf stable protein-

rich fish feed for use in aquaculture farming. BSF larvae harvested and stored in a freezer were used for the

study. The frozen BSF larvae samples were carefully thawed, spread in petri dishes and dried in the oven

(70 °C), solar dryer(and under the sun separately for about 24 hrs. The dried BSF larvae samples were then

packaged and stored at ambient temperature (28°C) for future analyses. The dried BSF larvae samples will

be analyzed for moisture content, ash content, fat and protein contents. The laboratory analyses are in

progress. The project is on-going.

5.4.6. Effect of gamma irradiation on the microbial quality, phytochemical and nutritional

constituents of dates palm (Phoenix dactylifera) sold in Accra, Ghana.

Research Team: Isaac Delali Kottoh, Gabriel K. Frimpong, Bernard Darfour, Tahiru Mahami, Abenaa

A. Okyere, Akwesi Agyekum

Abstract:

Phoenix dactylifera is composed of a fleshy pericarp and seed. It is cultivated for its edible sweet fruit. The

fruit is a highly nutritious food product and rich in simple sugars. The aim of the study was to produce flour

from dates and to investigate the effect of irradiation on the pasting and functional properties, microbial

quality, phytochemical and nutritional constituents of dates palm flour in order to determine its potential in

food formulation. Processing of dates into flour revealed various challenges as the three drying methods

(oven drying, solar drying and freeze drying) were not able to dry the dates perfectly. This might probably

be due to its high moisture and sugary content. Milling of the dates after the various drying methods

produced gummy and sticky flour (product). This indicates that dates cannot be successfully used to

produce quality flour for baking etc. However it can be used to produce other products like dates juice,

candy, jam etc and this will be investigated in future research work. Analysis of the other quality parameters

of the fruit is still on-going.

5.4.7. Pre-treatment effects on some proximate parameters of peeled and unpeeled ginger powder

from two different sources in Ghana.

Research Team: Dora Duah-Bisiw, Abenaa A. Okyere, Isaac K. Asare, Bernard Darfour, Shadrach

Donkor

Abstract:

Ginger is the underground stem (rhizome) of a perennial herb, which is used as a spice and also as a

preservative. Traditionally, rhizomes are killed by a 10min immersion in boiling water, which also

inactivates enzymatic processes, then sun-dried. The peeled rhizomes may be bleached to improve

appearance. Pre-treatment effects on the quality of oven –dried peeled and unpeeled ginger, grown locally

from Kadjebi in the Volta Region and Nkawieh, in the Ashanti Region of Ghana was evaluated by

determining some physiochemical properties using conventionally accepted methods. The pre-drying

treatments under investigation were dipping in 10% citric acid solution, dipping in 10% ascorbic acid

24

solution, dipping in 10% sodium chloride solution and a control. Physiochemical parameters investigated

were pH, crude protein, vitamin C, TTA and moisture content. The pre-treatments resulted in varied results

in peeled and unpeeled samples from both Kadjebi and Nkawieh. No significant difference was observed

between citric acid treated samples from Kadjebi and Nkawieh for both peeled and unpeeled ginger. The

controls of unpeeled ginger from Kadjebi recorded a higher protein value of 7.18±0.13% than that from

Nkawieh (5.07±0.13%). A similar trend in protein value was also observed in the controls of peeled ginger,

with samples from Kadjebi recording 7.12±0.14% and 6.83±0.14% for that of Nkawieh.

5.4.8. Effect of time and temperature and material size on some physico-chemical parameters of

Sorghum bicolor stalk brews.

Research Team: Adjoa Kesewaa Sarfo, Mavis Owureku-Asare, Daniel O. Ofosu, Joyce Agyei-Amponsah,

John Apatey, Daniel Larbi, Ernestina Ayeh

Abstract:

The stalks of Sorghum bicolor are a common ingredient in “waakye”, a combination of cooked rice and

beans that originated from northern Ghana. The stalks are used mainly for the deep colour it imparts to the

food being cooked. It is generally known that the longer the stalks are cooked the more colour is extracted

from them. There is however no data available on how long the stalks must be cooked to obtain the best

colour from them and the effect of these long cooking times on the beneficial components of the stalks.

This study sought to provide baseline information for developing an improved product to replace the stalks

as used presently. In this study, sorghum stalks were purchased from Madina market, sorted to remove

those with visible fungal infection and trimmed down to the main stalk. The stalks were then cut into three

sizes: six inch long ‘whole’ stalks, coarsely chopped stalks and finely milled stalks. 15g portions were

added to 300ml of water and left to steep for 20, 40 and 60 mins at room temperature and in a water bath at

approximately 100°C. Ascorbic acid content, pH and l*a*b* colour were analysed for the various samples.

Ascorbic acid content increased with increasing steeping time and was significantly more effective at

100°C. Finely milled stalks steeped at 100°C for 60 minutes recorded the highest ascorbic acid content of

29.88mg/100g of brew while ‘whole’ stalks steeped at room temperature had the lowest content of

1.9mg/100g of brew. The pH of brews increased with increasing temperature ranging from 6.85 to 7.23.

Steeping the stalks at 100°C caused a significant decrease in the l* value of the brews. Decreasing material

size also caused a corresponding decrease in the l* value as well as the a* and b* values for brews steeped

at 100°C. From the results it was apparent that milled stalks produced brews with the deepest red-wine

colour (l*- 37.50) and extracted the most amount of vitamin C at 100°C within a relatively stable pH range.

5.4.9. Evaluation of some physical and chemical indices of forty-five accessions of Hibiscus sabdariffa

harvested from BNARI Farms.

Research Team: Isaac Delali Kottoh, Adjoa S. Sarfo, Wonder Nunekpeku

Abstract:

Roselle is an annual or perennial herb derived from the plant's calyxes which are the collection of sepals

separating the blooming flower from the stem. The leaves of Roselle are used as a substitute for spinach

and are very popular in parts of Africa and South America. The objective of the study was to investigate

the physical and chemical indices of forty-five accessions of Hibiscus sabdariffa harvested from

Biotechnology and Nuclear Agriculture Research Institute research farms in Kwabenya. The harvested

leaves were analysed for their moisture content, total titratable acidity, ascorbic acid and carbohydrate

content. The moisture content of the samples were found to range from 78.63% to 86.48%. Sob 9 had the

highest moisture content followed by S1, with Don 3 recording the lowest moisture content which was

followed by Don 4.shows The total titratable acidity of various Hibiscus sabdariffa accessions were within

the range of 0.45 to 1.87% hibiscus acid content.L50 recorded the highest TTA of 1.87, with Don 4

registering the lowest value of 0.45% acid. The ascorbic acid content of the various samples also fell within

the range of 1.00 to 2.79. L5 had the highest ascorbic acid content, while WHS2 recorded the lowest. The

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accession that gave the highest carbohydrate content was Don-3 which recorded 7.32%, followed by NI-

GF with 6.22% and Sob-3 recorded the lowest value of 1.73, followed by Sob-10, which also gave a value

of 2.09%. The research work is on-going.

5.4.10. Effect of Radiation on Some Quality Parameters of Peanut Butter Project Team: Abraham Adu-Gyamfi, Adjoa K. Sarfo, Wellington Torgby-Tetteh, Dora Duah-Bsiw,

Stanley Acquah, John Apatey, Ernestina Ayeh, Daniel Larbi

Abstract:

Peanut butter is an excellent source of plant protein and also supplies essential fatty acid that are needed by

the human body. In Ghana, Nigeria and other African countries peanut butter is used in preparing soup.

However peanut butter can be contaminated with pathogens such as Salmonella when it is not hygienically

prepared. This study investigated the bacteriological and sensory quality as well as the rancidity index of

irradiated peanut butter. The total viable count of the irradiated peanut butter ranged between 3.33 and 2.0

cfu/g. A dose of 1 kGy resulted in a 0.85 log reduction whilst maximum dose of 5 kGy used resulted in a

1.33 log reduction in the total viable counts of the irradiated samples. E. coli and Salmonella were not

detected in both the control and irradiated peanut. The Staphylococcus aureus count ranged between below

detection limit and 2.63 cfu/g. For this study there were no significant differences in colour between the

samples (p

26

would be good for infants. Banana composite flour formulation is cost effective and can help reduce post-

harvest loss of banana. This study has been submitted as a manuscript for publication.

5.4.12. Effect of Gamma Irradiation on the Microbiological, Nutritional and Physico-Chemical

Qualities of Egusi Seeds (Citrullus Lanatus (Thunb.)

Research Team: Torgby-Tetteh W., Adwoa Kesewaa Sarfo., Isaac Delali Kottoh., Stanley Acquah,

Joanathan Nii Armah and Abraham Adu-Gyamfi

Abstract: Egusi seeds (Melon seeds) are popular in parts of West Africa including Nigeria, Ghana, Benin and other

countries. Melon seeds contain good levels of crude protein which are similar to soybean and fluted

pumpkin. It is a high-energy, high-protein concentrate which might be ideal to complement Africa’s

prevalent diets based on starch-rich grains (sorghum and maize, for instance) and roots (notably cassava).

Very little is known about the effect of gamma irradiation on egusi and its properties. The objective of this

study was to evaluate the microbiological, nutritional and physico-chemical qualities of egusi seeds which

have been subjected to gamma irradiation. In this study egusi seeds were irradiated at doses of 0, 6, 8, 10,

12 kG. Results show that with the exception of the control, gamma irradiation at the applied doses was able

to eliminate all the microorganisms on the egusi samples. Moisture values obtained for all samples ranged

between 3.06% - 3.30% with no significant (P>0.05) differences being observed among samples. The

values for TTA ranged between 0.89 - 1.50 g/l. Total soluble solid (TSS) values ranged between 1.27-1.40

whilst values for pH, vitamin C content and ash ranged between 6.54- 6.68, 0.77-0.89 mg/100ml and 2.81%

- 2.87% respectively. With the exception of the pH no statistically significant (P

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Abstract:

Composite flour technology refers to the process of mixing various flours from tubers and cereals or

legumes with or without addition of wheat flour in proper proportions to make economic use of local

cultivated crops to produce high quality food products. This study investigated microbial load and sensory

quality of locally produced tigernut-based composite flour. Microbial quality such as total viable count

(TVC), presence of yeast and mold, E. coli, Salmonella spp and Staphylococcus aureus were determined.

These were comparing to microbiological specification for composite flours. The sensory quality of the

composite powders such as colour, taste, aroma, mouthfeel and overall acceptability were also determined.

These properties are considered to be very important in the attempt to formulate composite flours. Mean

counts of the TVC and Staphylococcus aureus counts ranged between 3.31 to 3.22 and 2.21-2.58 log10

cfu/g respectively. Salmonella, E. coli and yeast and molds were not detected in any of the samples

analysed. Mean sensory scores ranged between 3.2±1.32-1.8±0.63 for colour, 3.1±1.10-2.4±0.52 for taste,

3.2±1.32-2.3±1.06 mouthfeel, 3.1±0.99-2.1±0.57 for aroma and 5.5±1.96-3.5±2.17 for preference.

Significant differences were observed between the samples in terms of colour, aroma and preference. The

microbial quality of the tigernut-based composite flour falls within the acceptable standard, hence

guarantying the safety of the consumer. The use of composite flour would help to improve the nutritional

value of food at presumably cheaper cost since all the raw materials are locally available and does not

require special skill for the preparation. A Technical report has been submitted.

5.4.15. Effect of irradiation as a control measure on the fungal contamination of sorghum bicolour

stalks Research Team: Daniel O. Ofosu, Adjoa Kesewaa Sarfo, Mavis Owureku-Asare, Joyce Agyei-Amponsah,

John Apatey, Daniel Larbi, Ernestina Ayeh

Abstract:

“Waakye” is a rice and cowpea meal enjoyed by a large population in Ghana. Stalks of sorghum bicolour

are common ingredient for “waakye”. There is no data available on possible fungal contamination that

might arise as a result of the handling and storage of the sorghum bicolour stalks. This study sought to

provide baseline information on possible fungi that will be used to develop an improved product that can

replace the stalks as used presently. A total of forty (40) questionnaires were administered to traders in eight

(8) markets in Ghana. The peak season for the sorghum bicolour stalk to be available in the market was

determined to be during the rainy season. Majority of the respondents answered that the produce are

delivered to them in polypropylene or jute bags. 37.5% of the respondents stored the produce in rattan

baskets after sale. Some stored the produce in jute (17.5%), cartons (27.5%), polythene bags (10%) and

plastic bowls (7.5%). Most of the respondents believed they had no problem with the storage of produce.

Even though the market women did not count fungal contamination as one of the problems during storage,

the microbial analysis shows otherwise. Samples from Mallam Atta market were the most contaminated of

all the markets (1.12X106 cfu/10g). Prolonged storage means that any fungi present could potentially

produce mycotoxins. There is the need to irradiate the stalks and properly package it prior to storage to

prevent the production of mycotoxins. Research is on-going.

5.4.16. Preliminary study on the use of gamma irradiation in reducing quantity of pesticide residues

in vegetables.

Research Team: Gabriel Kojo Frimpong, A. Adu – Gyamfi, Kottoh I.D.Benard Darfour, Agyekum A.

Akomeah, Aryee Francis

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Abstract: The general population is exposed to pesticides on a daily basis through different means of which dietary

ingestion of contaminated food products is one of them. Fresh fruits and vegetables are important

components of a healthy diet, as they are a significant source of vitamins and minerals. Different types of

vegetables are consumed daily by locals in Ghana. Among them, salad crops are most common vegetables

used in various dishes. Therefore, monitoring pesticide residues in vegetables may indicate the extent of

pesticide contamination that may pose a possible risk to human health. Radiation is one of the most powerful

advanced oxidation processes, in which irradiation with a beam of accelerated electrons or gamma-

radiation can decompose various pollutants, such as pesticide residues. The aim of this study was therefore

to assess the effect of gamma- radiation on pesticide residue of some selected vegetables. The irradiated

lettuce was gas chromatographically analysed for carbamates, organophosphates and organochlorines.

Levels of the most of pesticides residues analysed for were either absent or below the detection level

(0.005). Apart from p,p'-DDT, cyfluthrin, ethoprophos, phorate, dimethoate, pirimiphos-methyl and

chlorpyrifos all the other residues were not detected in both the irradiated and unirradiated samples. The

low levels of pesticides residues recorded could be as result of the season of the years when sampling was

done since during the dry season pest infestation and weed control were minimal hence less pesticides were

used by the farmers on their crops. From the result obtained, the level of pesticide residues were below the

detectable limits therefore the effect of irradiation on the pesticides residues levels were inconclusive. There

is therefore the need to conduct comprehensive studies on effect radiation on pesticide residues level in

vegetables throughout the year. A technical report of the study has been submitted.

5.4.17. Potential effects of poultry feed contamination on the microbial safety of raw chicken carcass

Research Team: T. Mahami, Wellington Togby-Tetteh, Gabriel Frimpong, E.K. Gasu, Joyce Agyei-

Amponsah, Selorm Agbemevor and A. Adu-Gyamfi

Abstract:

Animal feed is at the beginning of the food safety chain in the “farm-to-fork” model and human illness has

been traced back to contaminated feed. This study investigated the microbial quality of poultry feed and

feed ingredients (milled minerals, milled soya beans, milled maize) from the BNARI farm. Standard

methods of microbiology were applied to samples from two batches of feed. Results obtained showed that,

the range of Total Viable Count (TVC) in samples tested was: log10 4. 68- log10 4.96 (Milled Minerals),

log10 3.95- log10 4.20 (Milled Soya), log10 3.86- log103.90 (Milled Maize) and log104.76- log10 4.99

(compounded feed). Coliform counts (CC) in all samples ranged from log10 3.20- log10 3.99 for milled

minerals, log10 2.76- log10 3.44 for milled soya, log10 3.02- log10 3.22 for milled maize and log10 4.12- log10

4.66 for compounded feed. Whereas Staphylococcus was detected only in compounded feed (log10 2.83-

log10 3.74) and milled minerals (ND-2.88), Salmonella, yeast and moulds were not detected (ND) in any

sample from both batches of samples. Compounded feed contained the highest TVC (4.76 -4.99) followed

by milled minerals (log10 4. 68- log10 4. 96) then milled soya (log10 3.95- log10 4.20) and milled maize (log10

3.86- log10 3.90). Coliform count (CC) was also higher in compounded feed (log10 4.12- log10 4.66) than

was found in any of the feed ingredients: milled minerals (log10 3.20- log10 3.99), milled soya (log10 2.76-

log10 3.40) and milled maize (log10 3.02- log10 3.22).

5.4.18. Human health risk assessment of airborne trace elements for human receptors in the vicinity

of the Diamond Cement Factory, Volta Region, Ghana

Research Team: M. A. Addo1, J. K. Gbadago1, F. Ameyaw1, E.O. Darko2, H. Affum2, S. Dzide2,C. Gordon3,

P. Davor4

1National Nuclear Research Institute, Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, Ghana 2Radiation Protection Institute, Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, Ghana 3Institute of Environmental Science and Sanitation Studies, University of Ghana, Ghana 4Biotechnology Nuclear Agricultural Research Institute, Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, Ghana

29

Abstract:

In recent times, the management and control of air pollution from industrial source is one of the most

environmental challenges facing the global community. Evidently, industries that employ thermal processes

principally those from cement manufacturing release enormous particle pollutants into the atmosphere.In

this study, total dust levels in the vicinity of the Diamond Cement (DIACEM) Factory, Aflao, Ghana were

measured and analyzed for As, Cr, Ni and Zn using multi-elemental technique of Instrumental Neutron

Activation Analysis. The primary objective of the study was to assess the human health risk of the trace

metals exposure for children and adult population in four stratified zones in the study area. From the results

the mean dust level (538.92 µg/m3) around the cement facility deviated completely from regulatory

specification (150 µg/m3) indicating massive air pollution in the area. The mean concentration (mg/kg) of

trace metals in the area were found in the order of Ni (44.38) >Zn (25.65) > Cr (15.26) >As (2.87). The

human risk assessment study indicated that carcinogenic risk was insignificant but the risk of cancer could

be probable. Ingestion exposure was the highest level of risk found for both adults and children population

in the area. The study encourages more work as it cautioned that the current results cannot symbolize a

general portrait of the cement industry in Ghana, explaining that similar facilities may differ in their

pollution cleaning strategies and environmental conditions. A manuscript has been submitted for

publication.

5.4.19. Characterisation of resultant flours from gamma irradiated locally-produced rice (Oryza spp)

cultivars in Ghana

Research Team: F.C.K. Ocloo1*, M. Owureku-Asare1, J. Agyei-Amponsah1, S.W.K. Agbemavor1, M.N.Y.H.

Egblewogbe2, F. B. Apea-Bah1, A. Sarfo1, J. Apatey1, H. Doku3, D. Ofori-Appiah1, E. Aryee1 1Biotechnology and Nuclear Agriculture Research Institute, Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, 2 Department of Physics, University of Ghana, Legon-Accra, Ghana 3 Crop Research Institute, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Kumasi, Ghana

Abstract:

Locally grown rice is not greatly patronized in Ghanaian diets because of its variable quality. The most

prominent factors causing the variability in rice quality are the poor sensory and physical qualities. These

quality defects arise mainly from inappropriate post-harvest handling, poor planting materials and poor

agronomic practices. Gamma irradiation has long been used to protect foods from insect infestation and

microbial contamination during storage. However, irradiation has been reported to cause changes in some

rice cultivars. The objective of the study was to determine the effect of gamma irradiation as insect

disinfestation technique on some physicochemical, functional and pasting properties of selected locally-

produced rice cultivars in Ghana with the aim of preserving and widening the utilization of the rice cultivars.

Four local rice cultivars, namely ‘Viwotor’ (VWR), ‘Viwonor’ short (VSN), ‘Viwonor’ tall (VNT) and

‘Balemi’ 1 (BAL) were bought from rice farmers in Kpong, Ghana, with one imported rice type, Jasmine

(JAS), purchased from a local market and used as control. All the rice samples were sorted, cleaned,

dehulled and packaged into low density polyethylene bags. Samples were exposed to gamma irradiation

doses of 0.0, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, 1.0 and 1.5 kGy with a dose rate of 0.63 kGy/hr. The X-ray Diffraction

(XRD)- (X’Pert-Pro PANanalytical diffractometer) and the Pasting Properties (Rapid ViscoAnalyser, RVA

Model 3D). All the rice cultivars (irradiated and un-irradiated) had major peaks at 2θ ≈ 15°, 17°, 18° and

23° (Fig. 1). These 2θ peaks have been attributed to the presence of A-type crystal starches. Gamma

irradiation did not change the crystal type (XRD pattern) of the rice cultivars. All the rice cultivars showed

varied pasting properties. Gamma irradiation significantly decreased the pasting properties of the rice

cultivars used in this study. These changes could be due to depolymerization of the rice starch molecules

through chain scission by gamma irradiation. All the rice cultivars exhibited A-type crystallinity pattern,

and varied pasting properties. Gamma irradiation did not change the XRD pattern of the rice cultivars. The

pasting properties (viscosity) of the rice cultivars were reduced by gamma irradiation. The study shows that

flours from gamma irradiated rice cultivars have potential in food formulations that require low viscosity.

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5.5. SOIL AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES RESEARCH CENTRE

5.5.1. Evaluating the Impact of Synthetic Herbicides on Soil-Dwelling Organisms in an Agro-Ecosystem: Identification and Quantification of Soil Micro-organisms

Research Team: E. Yaw Ofori Ayeh, Michael Osae, Selorm Ofori, Justice O. Frimpong, Joshua Osei

Sintim, Benjamin Offei and Martin Dodobi

Abstract:

The application of synthetic herbicides that are targeted mostly at pest and weed control, invariably, poses

adverse effects to the environment. The effects are greatest on beneficial non-target organisms such as

pollinators, insect natural enemies and decomposers. However, the extent and exact effect prevailing in

agro-ecosystems that rely on synthetic chemicals for weed control is not well understood. The objective of

this project, therefore, is to evaluate three different herbicide active ingredients, Glyphosate, Paraquat

Dichloride and Dimethyl ammonium, in commercial formulations against manual weed control method on

soil dwelling organisms as well as the physico-chemical properties of the affected soil in a 4 x 3 nested

factorial arrangement. The study was carried out at the BNARI research farm on a 3-year fallow field, after

the field has been ploughed and harrowed. Sampling of soil for microbial and macrobial analyses

(identification and quantification per unit area) included the soil bacteria, soil fungi, soil actinomycetes,

soil algae as well as arthropods and molluscs.

5.5.2. Maintenance of laboratory reared indigenous black soldier fly Hermetia illucens (Diptera: Stratiomyidae)

Research Team: Ebenezer Ato Ewusie, Godfred Ofosu-Budu, Peter Kwapong, Christoph Sandrock and

Noah Adamtey

Abstract:

Up until the second quarter of last year, laboratory rearing of H. illucens has been quite a challenge.

However, with the support of SNF of Switzerland, strenuous effects were made to trap wild BSF eggs which

served as the basis for a now