Abstract: This study investigates how a chemical used in water treatment, hexamethylenediaminetetra(methylenephosphonic acid) (HDTMP), can be broken down using ultraviolet (UV) light, manganese (Mn²⁺), and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂). The research finds that adding hydrogen peroxide significantly speeds up the breakdown of HDTMP, while manganese also helps but to a lesser extent. The study provides insights into how these methods can be used to treat wastewater containing persistent chemicals like HDTMP.…View details

Abstract: This review discusses how Near Infrared (NIR) spectroscopy can be used to quickly and accurately measure the quality of cocoa beans and cocoa products. NIR spectroscopy is a non-invasive technique that helps in evaluating cocoa beans for factors like chemical composition, origin, and quality, which are crucial for ensuring the best products. The study highlights how this technology can be applied to the entire cocoa production process, from the beans to the final products, offering a faster, more reliable way to assess cocoa quality compared to traditional methods.…View details

Abstract: This study explores three methods to enhance the quality of Ghanaian garlic before drying: basic ultrasound [sonication (US)], ultrasound with a soaking solution [osmosonication (US + OD)], and vacuum with ultrasound and soaking [vacuum-assisted osmosonication (V + US + OD)]. We looked at how these methods affect garlic’s antioxidants, phenolic and flavonoid content, enzyme activity, rehydration, drying time, energy use, and chemical makeup. The vacuum with ultrasound and soaking method was the best, improving most quality measures, shortening drying time, and saving energy. This method also preserved the garlic’s chemical integrity and had the highest allicin content. Overall, the results ranked the methods as V + US + OD > US + OD > US.…View details

Abstract: This study compared how well three different types of waste (sludge) produce methane gas at three very high temperatures (60°C, 65°C, and 70°C). We also looked at their performance at lower temperatures (37°C and 55°C). Using German guidelines, we measured the daily amount of methane produced. We found that cow manure at 65°C was the best, giving the most methane and breaking down waste the most effectively. On the other hand, the performance was the worst at 70°C for a different type of sludge. For large-scale waste processing systems, cow manure at 65°C is recommended.…View details

Abstract: This study explores how farming practices that adapt to climate change impact food security in Ghana’s Central Region. It finds that most farmers are using low to moderately sustainable practices, which affects their food security. While many households experience hunger, those who adopt more sustainable farming practices tend to have better food security. The study suggests that improving the sustainability of farming can help protect against the effects of climate change and improve food availability for farm households.…View details