R&P Entries
Articles in Journals
Essilfie, M. E., Dapaah, H. K., Ofosu-Anim, J., Blay, E. T. and Norman, J. C. (2016). Effect of Different Storage Methods and Fertilizer Rates on Quality of Sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas L.) Storage Roots. International Journal of Plant & Soil Science, 10,
Abstract
Storage of fresh roots of two sweetpotato varieties (Apomuden and Okumkom) for up to 12 weeks was conducted from January to March, 2011 (minor cropping season) and from August to October, 2012 (major cropping season) using three storage methods by pit, ash, and grass. Roots were harvested at week 16 after planting. Sweetpotato was previously amended by treatments of chicken manure (CM) and inorganic fertilizer (NPK). The experimental design was randomized complete block. The result shows that Apomuden grown under amended and control plots and stored in grass, ash or pit did not differ significantly from Okumkom grown under the same treatment. Okumkom applied with 15-30-30 kg/ha NPK + 5t/ha CM and stored in grass gave lowest pest infested roots in both seasons. There was a significant difference between Apomuden and Okumkom grown under amended and control plots and stored in ash, grass and pit in weight loss of roots in both seasons. There was no significant difference between Apomuden and Okumkom grown under amended and control plots and stored in pit in root sprout during the major cropping season storage. However, Okumkom and Apomuden stored in pit had higher root sprout compared with ash or grass during the major cropping season. Okumkom applied with 15-15-15 kg/ha NPK +5t/ha CM and 30 – 45 – 45 kg/ha NPK and stored in grass did not sprout at 12 weeks after storage in both seasons. Okumkom applied with 15-30-30 kg/ha NPK + 5t/ha CM and 15-15-15 kg/ha NPK +5t/ha CM and stored in grass produced the least pest infestation, lower root weight and root sprout compared with Apomuden on the same treatment. There was no significant difference between Apomuden and Okumkom grown under amended and control plots and stored in grass, ash or pit in rotten roots during both storage periods. However, for lower rotten roots, the amended roots should be stored in pit than in grass or ash.
Storage of fresh roots of two sweetpotato varieties (Apomuden and Okumkom) for up to 12 weeks was conducted from January to March, 2011 (minor cropping season) and from August to October, 2012 (major cropping season) using three storage methods by pit, ash, and grass. Roots were harvested at week 16 after planting. Sweetpotato was previously amended by treatments of chicken manure (CM) and inorganic fertilizer (NPK). The experimental design was randomized complete block. The result shows that Apomuden grown under amended and control plots and stored in grass, ash or pit did not differ significantly from Okumkom grown under the same treatment. Okumkom applied with 15-30-30 kg/ha NPK + 5t/ha CM and stored in grass gave lowest pest infested roots in both seasons. There was a significant difference between Apomuden and Okumkom grown under amended and control plots and stored in ash, grass and pit in weight loss of roots in both seasons. There was no significant difference between Apomuden and Okumkom grown under amended and control plots and stored in pit in root sprout during the major cropping season storage. However, Okumkom and Apomuden stored in pit had higher root sprout compared with ash or grass during the major cropping season. Okumkom applied with 15-15-15 kg/ha NPK +5t/ha CM and 30 – 45 – 45 kg/ha NPK and stored in grass did not sprout at 12 weeks after storage in both seasons. Okumkom applied with 15-30-30 kg/ha NPK + 5t/ha CM and 15-15-15 kg/ha NPK +5t/ha CM and stored in grass produced the least pest infestation, lower root weight and root sprout compared with Apomuden on the same treatment. There was no significant difference between Apomuden and Okumkom grown under amended and control plots and stored in grass, ash or pit in rotten roots during both storage periods. However, for lower rotten roots, the amended roots should be stored in pit than in grass or ash.
Essilfie, M. E., Dapaah, H. K., Tevor, J. W. and Darkwa, K. (2016). Number of Nodes and Part of Vine Cutting Effect on the Growth and Yield of Sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam) in Transitional Zone of Ghana. International Journal of Plant & Soil Science, 9,
Abstract
Two field experiments were conducted at the Multipurpose crop nursery of the University of Education, Winneba, Mampong campus from May to September, 2013 and June to October, 2014 respectively to investigate into the effect of number of nodes (4, 5 and 6) and vine part (apical and semiwoody) on the growth and yield of sweetpotato. The results from both seasons showed that many of the characters measured increased with increase node number up to 6 nodes and with apical vine part. The apical vine cuttings established earlier than semiwoody cuttings in both seasons. Node numbers did not have significant effect on any of the yield characters measured although the 5 and 6 node cuttings gave higher marketable tuber weight per plot, tuber length and marketable tuber number per plot than the 4 node cuttings during 2014 growing season. The 5 node apical cuttings produced significantly higher vegetative biomass than 5 node semiwoody and the 4 and 6 node apical and semiwoody cuttings.
Two field experiments were conducted at the Multipurpose crop nursery of the University of Education, Winneba, Mampong campus from May to September, 2013 and June to October, 2014 respectively to investigate into the effect of number of nodes (4, 5 and 6) and vine part (apical and semiwoody) on the growth and yield of sweetpotato. The results from both seasons showed that many of the characters measured increased with increase node number up to 6 nodes and with apical vine part. The apical vine cuttings established earlier than semiwoody cuttings in both seasons. Node numbers did not have significant effect on any of the yield characters measured although the 5 and 6 node cuttings gave higher marketable tuber weight per plot, tuber length and marketable tuber number per plot than the 4 node cuttings during 2014 growing season. The 5 node apical cuttings produced significantly higher vegetative biomass than 5 node semiwoody and the 4 and 6 node apical and semiwoody cuttings.
Essilfie, M. E., Dapaah, H. K., Ofosu-Anim, J., Blay, E. T. and Norman, J. C. (2016). Assessment of Changes in Beta-carotene Content and Sensory Attributes of Two Sweet Potato Varieties as Influenced by Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers and Storage Methods. Journal of Applied Life Sciences International, 4,
Abstract
Two field experiments were conducted at two seasons at the research fields of the University of Education, Winneba-Mampong campus from September, 2011 to January, 2012 and April to July, 2012 to assess changes in beta-carotene content and sensory attributes of two sweet potato varieties (Okumkom and Apomuden) grown under organic and inorganic fertilizers and three different storage methods in Ghana. Cooked samples of the harvested sweet potato roots were evaluated for their sensory attributes. In the storability studies, the harvested roots were sorted, cured and stored under three storage methods for 3 months. The beta- carotene changes in the stored roots were assessed. There was a significant difference (p<0.05) between Apomuden and Okumkom grown under amendment and the control in beta-carotene content at harvest and in pit store in both seasons. The beta- carotene content of Apomuden increased by 15-30% in pit store during the minor season than at harvest. Both varieties grown under amendment and the control and stored in pit was the most effective storage method in terms of beta-carotene over ash and grass storage in both seasons. There was a significant difference (p<0.05) between Okumkom and Apomuden in root texture and palatability at harvest and after cooking during the minor season. Apomuden differed significantly (p<0.05) from Okumkom in root colour and flavour at harvest and after cooking during the major season. The application of 30-45-45 kg/ha NPK to both varieties was more acceptable with regard to root taste, colour and palatability than the other treatments during the minor season.
Two field experiments were conducted at two seasons at the research fields of the University of Education, Winneba-Mampong campus from September, 2011 to January, 2012 and April to July, 2012 to assess changes in beta-carotene content and sensory attributes of two sweet potato varieties (Okumkom and Apomuden) grown under organic and inorganic fertilizers and three different storage methods in Ghana. Cooked samples of the harvested sweet potato roots were evaluated for their sensory attributes. In the storability studies, the harvested roots were sorted, cured and stored under three storage methods for 3 months. The beta- carotene changes in the stored roots were assessed. There was a significant difference (p<0.05) between Apomuden and Okumkom grown under amendment and the control in beta-carotene content at harvest and in pit store in both seasons. The beta- carotene content of Apomuden increased by 15-30% in pit store during the minor season than at harvest. Both varieties grown under amendment and the control and stored in pit was the most effective storage method in terms of beta-carotene over ash and grass storage in both seasons. There was a significant difference (p<0.05) between Okumkom and Apomuden in root texture and palatability at harvest and after cooking during the minor season. Apomuden differed significantly (p<0.05) from Okumkom in root colour and flavour at harvest and after cooking during the major season. The application of 30-45-45 kg/ha NPK to both varieties was more acceptable with regard to root taste, colour and palatability than the other treatments during the minor season.
Arthur,Y.D Oduro,F.T.& Obeng-Denteh, W. (2016). Statistical Analysis of Hourly Solar Radiation in Kumasi –Ghana: Bayesian Approach. Journal of Scientific Research & Reports, 10,
Abstract
The solar radiation has been known to have skewed distribution rather than normally distributed irrespective of how large the sample size. The Bayesian statistical analysis of the solar radiation sort to find out from the Bayesian perspective how solar radiation is distributed in Ghana. The paper assumed a beta distribution as the conjugate prior for the solar radiation. The posterior distribution for p where p is the probability of sunshine was determined using the Bernoulli probability distribution. In this paper the random variable X represents the event of having a high or low sunshine base on the threshold of 120kWhm-2.A randomly selected sample of size of 1500 from each month of the year was used in the analysis. Based on the threshold value the total number of sunshine hours was calculated to help in the computation of posterior beta distribution parameters. The Bayesian analysis from the month of January through December were found to converge both for the prior and posterior mean and variances at a tolerance level of 0.0001 and0.00001 respectively after twenty iterations. The paper confirms that there are two clusters of which the solar radiation can be placed and that these cluster all converges after twenty iteration. The prior means and posterior mean converges to 0.86000 and .76000 at the tolerance level of 0.0001 respectively while the prior and posterior variances for cluster one and two converged to 6.0E-06 and 4.0E-06 respectively at 0.000001 tolerance level. The papers finally conclude that the clusters have a greater possibility (.86000 and 0.76000) of sunshine. This is also an indication that Kumasi has higher possibility of sunshine.
The solar radiation has been known to have skewed distribution rather than normally distributed irrespective of how large the sample size. The Bayesian statistical analysis of the solar radiation sort to find out from the Bayesian perspective how solar radiation is distributed in Ghana. The paper assumed a beta distribution as the conjugate prior for the solar radiation. The posterior distribution for p where p is the probability of sunshine was determined using the Bernoulli probability distribution. In this paper the random variable X represents the event of having a high or low sunshine base on the threshold of 120kWhm-2.A randomly selected sample of size of 1500 from each month of the year was used in the analysis. Based on the threshold value the total number of sunshine hours was calculated to help in the computation of posterior beta distribution parameters. The Bayesian analysis from the month of January through December were found to converge both for the prior and posterior mean and variances at a tolerance level of 0.0001 and0.00001 respectively after twenty iterations. The paper confirms that there are two clusters of which the solar radiation can be placed and that these cluster all converges after twenty iteration. The prior means and posterior mean converges to 0.86000 and .76000 at the tolerance level of 0.0001 respectively while the prior and posterior variances for cluster one and two converged to 6.0E-06 and 4.0E-06 respectively at 0.000001 tolerance level. The papers finally conclude that the clusters have a greater possibility (.86000 and 0.76000) of sunshine. This is also an indication that Kumasi has higher possibility of sunshine.
Arthur,Y.D, Asiedu-Addo,S.& Annan,J (2015). Student Mathematics Interest in Ghana: The Role of Parent Interest, Gender, Basic School Attended and Fear of Basic School Mathematics Teacher. Advances in Research, 5,
Abstract
To ensure successful learning and advanced achievement, subject-specific interest is essential. While many factors and strategies may be important in building a student’s interest in mathematics, variables such as the type of basic schools attended, parents’ interest in mathematics as well as the fear of imposed on students by their basic school teachers have not be completely investigated in the Ghanaian education system. Towards this goal, the current paper addresses the effect of parent interest, the type of basic school attended, the fear imposed by basic school mathematics teacher on a student’s interest in mathematics. Using descriptive and inferential statistical methods, data collected from 260 post senior high school student through structured questionnaires was analyzed.The study found that parent interest and value for mathematics significantly influenced students interest and joy in solving mathematical problems. Moreover, we also observed that the fear imposed by basic school mathematics teachers was found to significantly influence students’ interest. The study further found that the type of basic school attended and gender are factors that do not influence students’ interest in mathematics. In addition to concluding that a student’s interest is influenced by both parent interest and the fear of basic school mathematics teacher, the study also showed that the type of basic school attended and gender does not affect the students’ interest in mathematics.
To ensure successful learning and advanced achievement, subject-specific interest is essential. While many factors and strategies may be important in building a student’s interest in mathematics, variables such as the type of basic schools attended, parents’ interest in mathematics as well as the fear of imposed on students by their basic school teachers have not be completely investigated in the Ghanaian education system. Towards this goal, the current paper addresses the effect of parent interest, the type of basic school attended, the fear imposed by basic school mathematics teacher on a student’s interest in mathematics. Using descriptive and inferential statistical methods, data collected from 260 post senior high school student through structured questionnaires was analyzed.The study found that parent interest and value for mathematics significantly influenced students interest and joy in solving mathematical problems. Moreover, we also observed that the fear imposed by basic school mathematics teachers was found to significantly influence students’ interest. The study further found that the type of basic school attended and gender are factors that do not influence students’ interest in mathematics. In addition to concluding that a student’s interest is influenced by both parent interest and the fear of basic school mathematics teacher, the study also showed that the type of basic school attended and gender does not affect the students’ interest in mathematics.
Arthur,Y.D, Asiedu-Addo,S.& Harris,E. (2015). Statistical Software Packages (SSPs) Integration in Teaching and Learning of Statistics in Ghanaian Tertiary Institution. Journal of Scientific Research & Reports 7(4): 257-265, 2015;, 7,
Abstract
The aim of the study is to address the impact of statistical software package integration in the teaching and learning of statistics by examining the effect of training lecturers in the use of statistical software packages SSP(s) on their intension to use the packages. The research used multi mode survey technique.The study site used were the University of Education, Winneba, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, University of Mines and Technology, University of Energy and Natural Resources, from January –February, 2015.In this study, quantitative research method was employed where 98 respondents made of lectures, demonstrators and teaching assistants were purposively selected from 4 public universities in Ghana. Data collected were subjected to Smart PLS second generation multivariate structural Equation Modeling (SEM) in the computation of relevant statistics.The results of the analysis indicate that there is a positive significant relationship between training programs university leadership organized for their lecturers in mathematics and statistical and the perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, attitude and assertiveness of the lecturers to uses the SSPs and lecturer’s intension to use SSPs.The finding of this paper has confirmed the previous research output on the effectiveness of Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) framework and has further extended the theory of TAM to help predict the lecturer’s intension to use statistical software packages in the teaching and learning of statistics.
The aim of the study is to address the impact of statistical software package integration in the teaching and learning of statistics by examining the effect of training lecturers in the use of statistical software packages SSP(s) on their intension to use the packages. The research used multi mode survey technique.The study site used were the University of Education, Winneba, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, University of Mines and Technology, University of Energy and Natural Resources, from January –February, 2015.In this study, quantitative research method was employed where 98 respondents made of lectures, demonstrators and teaching assistants were purposively selected from 4 public universities in Ghana. Data collected were subjected to Smart PLS second generation multivariate structural Equation Modeling (SEM) in the computation of relevant statistics.The results of the analysis indicate that there is a positive significant relationship between training programs university leadership organized for their lecturers in mathematics and statistical and the perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, attitude and assertiveness of the lecturers to uses the SSPs and lecturer’s intension to use SSPs.The finding of this paper has confirmed the previous research output on the effectiveness of Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) framework and has further extended the theory of TAM to help predict the lecturer’s intension to use statistical software packages in the teaching and learning of statistics.
Amankwah,O.,Danso,.K & Arthur,Y.D (2015). Stakeholders Perception of the Advantages and Hindrances to the Adoption of Off-Site Production in the Ghanaian Construction Industry. Civil and Environmental Research, 7,
Abstract
The overreliance on the traditional construction methods by stakeholders of the Ghanaian construction industry has over time failed to adequately meet the needs and aspirations of most clients. This is as a result of their inability to achieve value for money due to time and cost overrun, as well as poor quality of finished products among other problems. It is therefore necessary to study how incorporating Off-site production (OSP) into the Ghanaian construction industry will help solve these problems. The aim of the study is to assess the advantages and hindrances to the adoption of OSP by stakeholders of the Ghanaian construction industry. The scope of the study was limited to key stakeholders in the Ghanaian construction industry in Accra and Kumasi. Questionnaires were sent to 120 key stakeholders. The study established that the major hindrances are the generally low familiarity of the concept of OSP and the low level of mechanisation of the Ghanaian construction industry. Respondents however indicated the main advantages will be the reduction in construction cost and time as well as an increase in the efficiency and quality of the finished products (buildings).
The overreliance on the traditional construction methods by stakeholders of the Ghanaian construction industry has over time failed to adequately meet the needs and aspirations of most clients. This is as a result of their inability to achieve value for money due to time and cost overrun, as well as poor quality of finished products among other problems. It is therefore necessary to study how incorporating Off-site production (OSP) into the Ghanaian construction industry will help solve these problems. The aim of the study is to assess the advantages and hindrances to the adoption of OSP by stakeholders of the Ghanaian construction industry. The scope of the study was limited to key stakeholders in the Ghanaian construction industry in Accra and Kumasi. Questionnaires were sent to 120 key stakeholders. The study established that the major hindrances are the generally low familiarity of the concept of OSP and the low level of mechanisation of the Ghanaian construction industry. Respondents however indicated the main advantages will be the reduction in construction cost and time as well as an increase in the efficiency and quality of the finished products (buildings).
Annan,.J, Arthur Y.D * & Quanah,E. (2015). Modelling Transport Energy Demand in Ghana: The Policy Implication on Ghanaian Economy. British Journal of Economics, Management & Trade, 10,
Abstract
Aim: The study aims at modeling automotive energy demand in Ghana as well as predicting the long term energy demand and its implication on the Ghanaian economy.The research design deployed in order to achieve the aim was explanatory.The research form part of bigger research work which got started in 2012 and ended 2015. The study used secondary data of fuel demand collected from the ministry of energy, through Ghana statistical service. Descriptive statistics and inferential statistical methods were deployed. Various descriptive charts were used in the preliminary stages of the modeling and further modeling techniques such as quadratic, linear, logarithmic, cubic and exponential models were the modeling techniques used. The mean absolute deviation was also adopted.The result of the study reveals that the cubic model best predict the demand for both gasoline but the PMS best predicted by quadratic model in Ghana with p-value < 0.05. The plot of the forecast value further revealed exponential future demand for automotive energy in Ghana.The cubic model best fit the automotive energy demand in Ghana with exponential future automotive energy demand. The nation should put policies in place to ensure resilient public transportation system which will translate into a reduction in private car demand for fuel. The exponential demand for automotive energy will mean that the nation will need more funds in order to import such energy this will further put much pressure on the cedi since demand for the fuel will demand foreign currency for its importation.
Aim: The study aims at modeling automotive energy demand in Ghana as well as predicting the long term energy demand and its implication on the Ghanaian economy.The research design deployed in order to achieve the aim was explanatory.The research form part of bigger research work which got started in 2012 and ended 2015. The study used secondary data of fuel demand collected from the ministry of energy, through Ghana statistical service. Descriptive statistics and inferential statistical methods were deployed. Various descriptive charts were used in the preliminary stages of the modeling and further modeling techniques such as quadratic, linear, logarithmic, cubic and exponential models were the modeling techniques used. The mean absolute deviation was also adopted.The result of the study reveals that the cubic model best predict the demand for both gasoline but the PMS best predicted by quadratic model in Ghana with p-value < 0.05. The plot of the forecast value further revealed exponential future demand for automotive energy in Ghana.The cubic model best fit the automotive energy demand in Ghana with exponential future automotive energy demand. The nation should put policies in place to ensure resilient public transportation system which will translate into a reduction in private car demand for fuel. The exponential demand for automotive energy will mean that the nation will need more funds in order to import such energy this will further put much pressure on the cedi since demand for the fuel will demand foreign currency for its importation.
Olu Fagbemi E., Cowther,.S.& Arthur,Y.D. (2016). RECRUITMENT PRACTICES AND POLICIES OF HOTELS IN THE TAMALE METROPOLIS, GHANA. International Journal of Contemporary Applied Sciences, 3,
Abstract
This study sought to assess recruitment practices and policies of hotels in the Tamale Metropolis of Ghana. The authors argue that existing recruitment policies that often take on the one-size fit all approach overlook the contextual issues of employees resulting in unsuccessful recruitment practices. Using a descriptive survey approach major instruments were questionnaires. A sample size of 20 employees was obtained using simple random sampling technique. Data collected from questionnaires was analysed using descriptive statistics with SPSS version 21 as statistical package for the data analysis. The study revealed that a majority of the hotels in Tamale recruit staff with relevant past experience in hotel business and few graduates without work experience. The mode of attracting applicants was through advertisement. Further, a majority of hotels contributed to their employees‟ pension benefits through the payment of SSNIT and other insurance packages. The study concludes that hotel recruitment practices and policies that overlook employees‟ context, experience challenges in employee performance. The study recommends that recruitment policies for employees should provide options for customizing benefit packages to match individual employee needs. This ultimately leads to responsible employees.
This study sought to assess recruitment practices and policies of hotels in the Tamale Metropolis of Ghana. The authors argue that existing recruitment policies that often take on the one-size fit all approach overlook the contextual issues of employees resulting in unsuccessful recruitment practices. Using a descriptive survey approach major instruments were questionnaires. A sample size of 20 employees was obtained using simple random sampling technique. Data collected from questionnaires was analysed using descriptive statistics with SPSS version 21 as statistical package for the data analysis. The study revealed that a majority of the hotels in Tamale recruit staff with relevant past experience in hotel business and few graduates without work experience. The mode of attracting applicants was through advertisement. Further, a majority of hotels contributed to their employees‟ pension benefits through the payment of SSNIT and other insurance packages. The study concludes that hotel recruitment practices and policies that overlook employees‟ context, experience challenges in employee performance. The study recommends that recruitment policies for employees should provide options for customizing benefit packages to match individual employee needs. This ultimately leads to responsible employees.
Arthur,Y. D., Sekyere, F., Marlle,E. K. & Banuenumah,W. (2016). The impact of Service quality on customer satisfaction in Obuasi Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) - The customers perspective. International Journal of Contemporary Applied Sciences, 3,
Abstract
Globally several studies had been conducted using SERVQUAL model in different discipline and context. However, little had been discussed on comparing the impact of Service quality on customer satisfaction in Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) from the customer perspective. The study adapted the modified version of SERVQUAL model as a tool to measure the variables of the study. The study used convenience sampling method to select customer of ECG. The questionnaires were distributed and collected for analysis using SPSS and Microsoft Excel Software. Simple Regression was used to test for the impact of service quality on customer satisfaction. The result indicates that all the five dimensions of service quality performed poorly P >0.05. Furthermore the service quality had a negative impact on customer satisfaction and concludes that the service quality deserves improvement. The study finally recommends that staff should be engaged on regular basis to be trained on issues of costumer services and its effects on organizational performance. Further studies on SERVQUAL model using the five service quality dimensions can gradually close the gaps to bring success to the ECG.
Globally several studies had been conducted using SERVQUAL model in different discipline and context. However, little had been discussed on comparing the impact of Service quality on customer satisfaction in Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) from the customer perspective. The study adapted the modified version of SERVQUAL model as a tool to measure the variables of the study. The study used convenience sampling method to select customer of ECG. The questionnaires were distributed and collected for analysis using SPSS and Microsoft Excel Software. Simple Regression was used to test for the impact of service quality on customer satisfaction. The result indicates that all the five dimensions of service quality performed poorly P >0.05. Furthermore the service quality had a negative impact on customer satisfaction and concludes that the service quality deserves improvement. The study finally recommends that staff should be engaged on regular basis to be trained on issues of costumer services and its effects on organizational performance. Further studies on SERVQUAL model using the five service quality dimensions can gradually close the gaps to bring success to the ECG.
