Faculty of Agricultural Sciences

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11951/929

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Draft genome sequence of solanum aethiopicum provides insights into disease resistance, drought tolerance, and the evolution of the genome
(Oxford, 2019-08) Bo Song; Yue Song; Yuan Fu; Elizabeth Balyejusa Kizito; Sandra Ndagire Kamenya; Pamela Nahamya Kabod; Huan Liu; Samuel Muthemba; Robert Kariba; Joyce Njuguna; Solomon Maina; Francesca Stomeo; Appolinaire Djikeng; Prasad S. Hendre; Xiaoli Chen; Wenbin Chen; Xiuli Li; Wenjing Sun; Sibo Wang; Shifeng Cheng; Alice Muchugi; Ramni Jamnadass; Allen Van Deynze; Huanming Yang; Jian Wang; Xun Xu; Damaris Achieng Odeny; Xin Liu
Background: The African eggplant (Solanum aethiopicum) is a nutritious traditional vegetable used in many African countries, including Uganda and Nigeria. It is thought to have been domesticated in Africa from its wild relative, Solanum anguivi. S. aethiopicum has been routinely used as a source of disease resistance genes for several Solanaceae crops, including Solanum melongena. A lack of genomic resources has meant that breeding of S. aethiopicum has lagged behind other vegetable crops. Results: We assembled a 1.02-Gb draft genome of S. aethiopicum, which contained predominantly repetitive sequences (78.9%). We annotated 37,681 gene models, including 34,906 protein-coding genes. Expansion of disease resistance genes was observed via 2 rounds of amplification of long terminal repeat retrotransposons, which may have occurred ∼1.25 and 3.5 million years ago, respectively. By esequencing 65 S. aethiopicum and S. anguivi genotypes, 18,614,838 single-nucleotide polymorphisms were identified, of which 34,171 were located within disease resistance genes. Analysis of domestication and demographic history revealed active selection for genes involved in drought tolerance in both “Gilo” and “Shum” groups. A pan-genome of S. aethiopicum was assembled, containing 51,351 protein-coding genes; 7,069 of these genes were missing from the reference genome. Conclusions: The genome sequence of S. aethiopicum enhances our understanding of its biotic and abiotic resistance. The single-nucleotide polymorphisms identified are immediately available for use by breeders. The information provided here will accelerate selection and breeding of the African eggplant, as well as other crops within the Solanaceae family.
Intraspecific crossability and compatibility within solanum aethiopicum
(Elsevier Ltd, 2021-07) Ruth Buteme; Mary Nakajiri; Newton Kucel; Pamela Nahamya Kabod; Godfrey Sseremba; Elizabeth Balyejusa Kizito
Understanding hybridization barriers is relevant for germplasm conservation and utilization. The prezygotic barriers to hybridization include floral morphological differences like pistil and stamen length, pollen characteristics and pollen-pistil interactions. This study sought to elucidate the reproductive biology of Solanum aethiopicum; its mating systems and compatibility barriers. Eight genotypes of Solanum aethiopicum were examined for differences in floral morphology, phenology and cross compatibility in a full diallel mating design, with assessment of fruit set, seed set and seed viability. In-vivo pollen tube growth was observed for failed crosses at 24, 48 and 72 h after pollination. All genotypes had heterostyly flowers, with predominantly small white petals. Incompatibility was observed in five out of 39 combinations. All selfed genotypes displayed compatibility implying the genotypes are self-compatible. Pollen–pistil incompatibility, which was exhibited in four out of the five failed cross combinations, occurred on the stigma, upper style and lower style, a phenomenon typical in Solanaceae. Solanum aethiopicum is self-compatible and majorly self-pollinating but has features that support cross-pollination.
Mode of Gene Action in Inheritance of Vegetative, Floral and Leaf Yield Traits in the African Eggplant (Solanum aethiopicum)
(RUFORUM, 2021) Ruth Buteme; Nahamya Pamela Kabod; Godfrey Sseremba; Kizito Elizabeth Balyejusa
Understanding gene actions and how they contribute in the expression of characters is of great importance when devising an efficient selection program through the use of a suitable mating design. This study sought to determine the mode of gene action involved in inheritance of vegetative and floral traits in Solanum aethiopicum. Specifically, to establish probable existence of dominance and combining ability of the studied S. aethiopicum genotypes. To do this, twenty-nine (29) successful hybrids from a partial diallel crossing design along with their parental lines were evaluated to determine the mode of gene action involved in inheritance of vegetative, floral and leaf yield traits of S. aethiopicum. A multivariate linear mixed model fit by REML was used to estimate variance components for general combining ability (GCA) and specific combining ability (SCA) in the incomplete diallele design. The specific combining ability (SCA) effects were significant (p>0.01) for all traits measured at 6 and 8 weeks after planting (WAP) except for Harvest Index. Broad-sense heritability (H2) values were generally high (>80%) for all traits compared to narrow sense heritability (h2) at both stages of harvest; moreover Baker’s ratio for these traits was low. The estimates of dominance variance were also higher in magnitude than corresponding estimates of additive variance. The cross N2xN14 had the highest SCA effects for majority of the vegetative traits and floral traits at both 6 and 8WAP. The results showed that non-additive gene action (dominant, additive × dominant and dominant dominant effects) takes centre stage in inheritance of petal colour, stem colour, relative style length, stem hairiness, plant height, number of leaves, plant canopy width, and stem girth, flowers per inflorescence and flowers per plant and harvest index. However, inheritance of leaf area is governed by additive gene action. Therefore, for improvement of the African eggplant, methods such as restricted recurrent selection in early segregating generations might be appropriate.
Amplicon Sequencing Identified a Putative Pathogen, Macrophomina phaseolina, Causing Wilt in African Eggplant (Solanum aethiopicum) Grown in Tanzania and Uganda
(Frontiers in Agronomy, 2024-01-03) Xiangming Xu; Ruth Minja; Elizabeth Balyejusa Kizito; Fekadu Dinssa; Greg Deakin; Pamela Nahamya Kabod; Asheri Kalala; Eliciana Kweka; Omary Mbwambo; Deusdedith Mbanzibwa; Hamza Msangi; Mildred Julian Nakanwagi; Tom Passey; Stuart Sentance; Godfrey Sseremba; Eleftheria Stavridou; Gerard J. Bishop
African eggplant (Solanum aethiopicum L.) is one of the most common traditional vegetables in Tanzania and Uganda, but its productivity is severely affected by wilt diseases caused by a number of pathogens. Plant stem and root samples were collected in several fields from many neighboring diseased and healthy plants of the Gilo group in Tanzania and from the Shum group in Uganda to identify putative pathogens causing wilt on African eggplants. Through amplicon sequencing of sampled diseased and healthy tissues, we identified putative causal pathogens for the wilt symptoms. Wilting of S. aethiopicum in Uganda is most likely caused by the bacterial pathogen Ralstonia solanacearum whereas, in Tanzania, wilt is most likely caused by the fungal pathogen Macrophomina phaseolina, infecting roots. Infection of stems by Fusarium solani may also contribute to the wilt symptoms in Tanzania. Further artificial inoculation under controlled conditions confirmed that M. phaseolina can cause typical wilting symptoms on S. aethiopcium genotypes. The discovery of different putative causal agents of wilt in the crop demonstrates the need for site specific etiological analysis of wilt before developing and implementing effective control methods. Further research is needed to confirm the results and develop appropriate management measures against specific wilt pathogens.
Trader Acceptability of African Eggplant (Solanum aethiopicum Shum) Genotypes and Effect of Bio-Control Treatments on Consumer Sensory Acceptability
(Institute of Food Science and Technology, 2022) Mulindwa Joseph; Sseremba Geoffrey; Bbosa Tom; Nakanwagi Mildred Julian; Musubire Brian Justus; Gerard James Bishop; Nahamya Pamela Kabod; Kizito Elizabeth Balyejusa
Application of advanced agronomic practices may affect the sensory attributes of plant products. The study determined the trader physical acceptability of farmer preferred African eggplant (nakati) genotypes (E11, E15 and E16); and later studied the impact of bio-control treatments; Trichoderma spp (TRI). and Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) on consumer sensory appeal of genotypes using standard sensory evaluation methods. The trader acceptability of genotypes based on leaf number, succulence, smoothness, colour, and shininess were significantly different; except for the hard-textured leaves of E11 (P ≤ 0.05). Leaf appearance (E11) and stalk-leaf quantity (E15 and E16) were preferred by high-end and low-end markets, respectively. Consumer sensory acceptability of bio-control-treated samples, above 85% of E15 and E16 was liked based on reduced bitterness (P ≤ 0.05). Using descriptive sensory tastes, results showed that soil bio-control treatment with TRI during the light rain season significantly improved the palatability of E15 and E16. Therefore, use of TRI during light or dry season improves sensory appeal of nakati.
Compatibility Barriers Affecting Crossability Between Solanum aethiopicum and Its Relatives
(Scientific Journals (Nature), 2022) Namutosi, Winnie; Bulyaba, Rosemary; Nakanwangi, Mildred Julian; Buteme, Ruth; Sseremba, Godfrey; Kizito, Elizabeth Balyejusa
Reproductive barriers are single most important impediment in conventional breeding of Solanum aethiopicum (Shum and Gilo) and its relatives. This study investigated compatibility barriers between S. aethiopicum and its relatives. A randomized complete block design and a full diallel mating method were used to evaluate floral phenology and compatibility of six genotypes at different floral stages. Parameters assessed include; anthesis, anther dehiscence, stigma receptivity, among others. Results showed that most flowers in anthesis per genotype were counted at 8:00am. Overall mean number of open flowers differed significantly (P<0.001) and was highest for N11(n=13) and least for E12(n=3). Anther dehiscence varied significantly (P<.001) among floral stages. However, there was no difference among genotypes. All genotypes showed high pollen viability (> 80%) although they differed significantly (P<0.01). Stigma receptivity averaged highest (3.31) for N11 and least (2.31) for In1. All genotypes exhibited self-compatibility; N11 averaged highest for fruit set (67.93%), seed per fruit (82) and F1 germination (79%). Crosses revealed moderate compatibility (50%); highest fruit were in N4xN11 (71.97%), seed N11xA1 (56) and F1 germination inN11x N4 (76.3%) respectively. In the crosses where In1 was a female parent 80% incompatibility was observed at fruit set whereas73% of crosses where E12 was a female parent set fruits without seed. Female functioning may be a major factor in observed incompatibility between S. aethiopicum and its relatives. To harness the potential of S. aethiopicum relatives, N11 and N4 can be advanced as female parents in wide hybridizations.
Farmers’ Selection Cues in Cowpea for Vegetable Use in Eastern Uganda
(African journal of food, agriculture, nutrition and development, 2022) Kizito, Elizabeth B; Kyebalyenda, T; Nakanwagi, MJ; Sseremba, G; Buteme, R; Kabod, PN1; Odeke; Amayo, R; Runyararo, JR; Egeru, A; Falk, T
A participatory cowpea varietal selection was carried out in Eastern Uganda in the Kumi district among farmers (n=30) in the sub-Counties of Ongino, Kumi and Kanyum. An arange of opinions were collected to identify farmers’ selection criteria based on different sensory attributes and their most preferred genotypes for vegetable use. A Apreference analysis was carried out to obtain quantitative preference scores of each plot. This was followed by organoleptic tests which included attributes like taste, aroma and texture of the genotypes at the vegetative and immature R4 stages. Focus group discussions (FGDs) were also held to find a consensus of the independent evaluations made by individual farmers. Data for sixteen (16) cowpea genotypes were collected at the different above-mentioned stages. Quantitative data were analyzed based on farmers’ scores made on the different evaluated attributes and ANOVA was used to provide mean differences between location, gender and genotype at a significant level of 5%. The preference score for each of the varieties tested was determined and presented. Data from FGDs were grouped, similarities and differences were later determined depending on their level of importance to the farmers. Significant differences (p<0.05) in farmer choices were observed for leaf taste, immature pod aroma, taste and texture; mature pod aroma, taste between farmer groups, age genotype and gender. Irrespective of age, gender, farmer group and genotype, farmers seemed to give more importance to the smooth texture, little hard leaves when chewing, sweet taste with a mild aroma (leaves) and a moderate aroma (pods). Majority (9%) of the farmers preferred Ebelat (landrace) at V4 stage; this was followed by Danila (8.7%). On the other hand, UCUCOW1 (13% at immature and 10.2% at mature cooked R4 stage) followed by Ebelat (9% and 9.8% for immature and mature R4 stage, respectively) were preferred by the majority of the farmers. In terms of sensory attributes, farmers preferred genotypes with a sweet taste, moderate aroma and tender texture. The information is a baseline for understanding key farmer selection criteria in the utilization of cowpea as a vegetable which can be used in generating a demand-led variety design for the crop.
Quantitative and Mechanistic Analysis of Impact of Novel Cassava-Assisted Improved Processing on Fluid Transport Phenomenon in Humidity-Temperature-Stressed Bio-Derived Films
(European Polymer Journal, 2016) Tumwesigye, Kashub Steven; Oliveira, J.C.; Sousa-Gallagher, Maria Jose
Bio-derived films’ realistic performance integrity is ascertained by their resilience in highly stressful storage conditions, a function of its ability to respond timely and manages fluid barrier appropriately. Bio-derived films’ moisture and temperature sensitivity often posed mass transport challenges, thus decreasing their lifespan. Quantifying bio-derived film mass transport behaviour has been limited to mass transfer representations, which can be imperfect to understand fully mass transport phenomenon. This study reported quantitative and mechanistic analysis of fluid-phase mass transport phenomenon in Simultaneous Release Recovery Cyanogenesis-produced intact bitter cassava (IBC) bio-derived films under stressful conditions. Films were tested for solvent solubility, swelling ratio, sorption and permeability to water vapour and oxygen at 10-40°C and 10-95% RH. Film’s structural alterations were characterised by their thermal and chemical properties. Modified-BET, Peleg, Oswin models best described sorption data. Temperature-dependence of film water vapour permeability was simulated best by Arrhenius model, while oxygen permeability was influenced highly by crystallinity and RH. Non-organic and organic film-solvent diffusion followed case II and Fickian diffusional patterns respectively. Solvents induced structural changes in IBC films with concentration-dependent diffusion. Cassava bio-derived films’ integrity will depend on the host environment, thus maximum care should be ensured to minimise environment impact during applications. Nonetheless, IBC films hold potential as biomaterials for broad range product use.
Novel Intact Bitter Cassava: Sustainable Development and Desirability Optimisation of Packaging Films
(Food Bioprocess Technol Journal, 2016) Tumwesigye, Kashub Steven; Oliveira, J.C.; Sousa-Gallagher, Maria Jose; Montañez, J. C.
Novel biomaterials and optimal processing conditions are fundamental in low-cost packaging material production. Recently, a novel biobased intact bitter cassava derivative was developed using an intrinsic, high-throughput downstream processing methodology (simultaneous release recovery cyanogenesis). Processing of intact bitter cassava can minimise waste and produce low-cost added value biopolymer packaging films. The objective of this study was to (i) develop and characterise intact bitter cassava biobased films and (ii) determine the optimal processing conditions, which define the most desirable film properties. Films were developed following a Box-Behnken design considering cassava (2, 3, 4 % w/v), glycerol (20, 30, 40 % w/w) and drying temperature (30, 40, 50 °C) and optimized using multi-response desirability. Processing conditions produced films with highly significant (p < 0.05) differences. Developed models predicted impact of processing conditions on film properties. Desirable film properties for food packaging were produced using the optimised processing conditions, 2 % w/v cassava, 40.0%w/w glycerol and 50 °C drying temperature. These processing conditions produced films with 0.3 %; transparency, 3.4 %; solubility, 21.8 %; water-vapour-permeability, 4.2 gmm/m2/day/kPa; glass transition, 56 °C; melting temperature, 212.6 °C; tensile strength, 16.3 MPa; elongation, 133.3 %; elastic modulus, 5.1MPa and puncture resistance, 57.9 J, which are adequate for packaging applications. Therefore, intact bitter cassava is a viable material to produce packaging films that can be tailored for specific sustainable, low-cost applications.
New Sustainable Approach to Reduce Cassava Borne Environmental Waste and Develop Biodegradable Materials for Food Packaging Applications
(Food Packaging and Shelf Life Journal, 2016) Tumwesigye, Kashub Steven; Oliveira, J.C.; Sousa-Gallagher, Maria Jose
Transforming waste cassava into a sustainable resource requires a new approach and redesign of the current processing methodologies. Bitter cassava cultivars have been employed mainly as an emergency famine food, but could also be used as a value-added material for packaging. Processing of intact bitter cassava can minimize waste, and produce low-cost added value biopolymer packaging films for targeted applications. This study developed an improved simultaneous release, recovery and cyanogenesis (SRRC) downstream processing methodology for sustainable reduction of waste and development of film packaging material using intact bitter cassava. SRRC approach produced peeled (BP) and intact (BI) bitter cassava biopolymer derivatives. BI showed significantly higher yields ensuring 16% waste decrease with no environmental impact caused by discard residues. SRRC was very effective in reducing the total cyanogen content to within Codex minimum safety limits, demonstrating that the peeling of bitter cassava process can be avoided. Transparent films were produced using the casting method from both BP and BI derivatives. BI films were more transparent and homogeneous, less soluble, less permeable to moisture, less hydrophilic, more permeable to oxygen and carbon-dioxide, sealable, lower cost, than the BP. Hence, intact bitter cassava and SRRC can be used as sustainable, safe, integrative process solution for high value-added product (e.g., packaging film) production from low-cost biobased materials.
Integrated Sustainable Process Design Framework for Cassava Biobased Packaging Materials: Critical Review of Current Challenges, Emerging Trends and Prospects
(Trends in food science and technology, 2016) Tumwesigye, Kashub Steven; Oliveira, J.C.; Sousa-Gallagher, Maria Jose
Background: Cassava represents a reasonable share in biobased material development globally. The production of its biopolymer derivatives using conventional techniques/methods is accompanied by significant wastes with potential negative environmental impact. Among the biopolymer derivatives, starch dominates as lone additive in cast matrices with packaging limitations, requiring other biopolymer derivatives, and/or external-source modifiers for matrix improvement. exploiting integrated sustainable engineering process design of all biopolymer derivatives, is a novel approch in deaigning efficient system of cassava biobased materials for food and non-food applications. Scope and approach: A critical review on the current and emerging techniques and methodologies to address cassava wastes and challenges of cassava research for application on biobased packaging are provided. The potential of integrated sustainable engineering process design framework for packaging system is discussed, and prospects for improvement suggested. Key findings and conclusions: Challenges of significant waste generated during conventional processing and on the application process aiming at tailoring materials to industrial needs are reported. These materials should be improved using a holistic approach reflecting the target products, variable environment, minimising production costs and energy. Use of novel material resources, eliminating waste, and employing a standardised methodology via desirability optimisation, present a promising process integration tool for development of sustainable cassava biobased systems.
Integrated Process Standardisation as a Zero-Based Approach to Bitter Cassava Waste Elimination and Widely-Applicable Industrial Biomaterial Derivatives
(Chemical Engineering and Processing Journal, 2016) Tumwesigye, Kashub Steven; Peddapatla, R.V.G.; Crean, A.; Oliveira, J.C.; Sousa Gallagher, Maria Jose
Integrated standardised methodology for biopolymer derivatives (BPD) production from novel intact bitter cassava was demonstrated by desirability optimisation of simultaneous release, recovery, cyanogenesis (SRRC) process. BPD were evaluated for yield and colour using buffer (0,2,4 % v/v), cassava waste solids (15,23,30 % w/w), and extraction time (4,7,10 minutes). Nearly all the root was transformed into BPD, with higher yield and colour in comparison to starch extrinsically processed. Maximum global desirability, predicted efficient material balance, buffer 4.0 %w/v, cassava waste solids 23 %w/w and extraction time, 10 minutes, producing BPD yield, 38.8 % wb Validation using buffer, 3.3% w/v, cassava waste solids, 30 % w/w and extraction time, 10 minutes, produced 40.7 % wb BPD. SEM, DSC, TGA, FTIR and moisture barrier analyses revealed a uniform microstructure and high thermal stability of BPD and film, thus demonstrating efficient performance of the standardised integrated methodology. Hence, processing intact cassava root as a standardised integrated methodology could be used to produce sustainable low cost BPD for a broad range of applications. Methodologies designed around standard integrated procedures, matching zero-based approach to contamination, are novel strategies, and if used effectively can eliminate cassava wastes and recover BPD resources as sustainable biomaterials.
Evaluation of Novel Bitter Cassava Film for Equilibrium Modified Atmosphere Packaging of Cherry Tomatoes
(Food Packaging and Shelf Life Journal, 2017) Tumwesigye, Kashub Steven; Sousaa, A.R.; Oliveiraa, J.C.; Sousa-Gallaghera, Maria Jose
Equilibrium modified atmosphere packaging (EMAP) technology offers the possibility to maintain produce postharvest quality and extend its shelf-life. However, EMAP stability depends on well-tuned packaging design parameters to match environmental conditions. This study defined the design requirements of a biobased film EMAP that can preserve the quality and prolong the shelf-life of fresh cherry tomatoes under recommended and simulated abuse supply chain conditions. Optimum EMAP was evaluated based on headspace gas composition at 10–20 °C, 75–95% RH and verified by determining quality changes of packed cherry tomatoes in using a continuous or micro-perforated (0.27 μm) bio-based intact bitter cassava (IBC) film. This was compared with a non-bio-based polymer film (oriented polypropylene, OPP). The IBC film attained equilibrium O2 (2–3%) after 180 h at 10 °C, with 0 and 1 perforation, for 75 and 95% RH while OPP film maintained a downward O2 fall. Continuous and micro-perforated IBC film did not show any major differences in equilibrium headspace O2, thus perforation can be neglected. Based on desirability optimisation results, biobased IBC film demonstrated a better optimized EMAP system in attaining recommended gas and stretching cherry tomato shelf-life as compared to non-biobased (OPP) film. The application of bio-based IBC film offers new possibilities in packaging fresh produce under an equilibrium modified atmosphere without compromising its quality.
Engineered Food Supplement Excipients From Bitter Cassava for Minimisation of Cassava Processing Waste in Environment
(Future Foods Journal, 2020) Tumwesigye, Kashub Steven; O’Brien, E.; Oliveira, J.C.; Crean, A.; Sousa-Gallagher, Maria Jose
Unchecked large-scale rudimentary upstream (sub-merged and solid state) fermentation processes of bitter cas- sava roots into alcohol have often contributed significantly to agricultural wastes into environment. Thus, the study explored a proven valorisation methodology, Simultaneous Release Recovery Cyanogenesis (SRRC) along with intact bitter cassava polysaccharide-rich derivatives (CWF), as an apt to find alternative materials for food supplement excipients. Triplicate CWF powder, peeled or intact bitter cassava roots, were produced and analysed to determine crit- ical properties suitable in tablet making. Exclusion approach, using SRRC and compaction, was performed to select desired powder properties for tablet formulation. Microcrystalline cellulose, with known properties for developing drug excipients, was used as a validation reference material. Tablets, for disintegration time and in- vitro dissolution rates studies were produced using wet-granulation, and their potential to release and bio-avail Iron-Zinc investigated in-vitro (pHs 1.2 and 6.8 solutions, 37 0 C). Morphology and Iron-Zinc dissolution-release mechanisms were examined. Kinetic models were used to describe matrix dissolution and Iron-Zinc release mech- anisms. Intact root powder compaction capacity, depicted by hardness, was 4.3, 4.4 and 4.6 KG at 200, 500 and 700 MPa respectively. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) showed Iron-Zinc inclusion altered tablet morphol- ogy. Efficient matrix dissolution and Iron and Zinc release were achieved, showing apex recovery efficiency (98%, 30–45 min). Fitted models well-explained dissolution and release mechanisms (mean R 2 = 0.95), demonstrating adequacy. SRRC-improved intact bitter cassava was confirmed as potential alternative excipient’s matrix for Iron and Zinc release and bioavailability. Thus, this approach is practical for indirect waste elimination, and can promote strategy for sustainable valorisation of agricultural wastes and alternative functional food supplements delivery system.
Effective Utilisation of Cassava Bio-Wastes Through Integrated Process Design: A Sustainable Approach to Indirect Waste Management
(Process Safety and Environmental Protection Journals, 2016) Tumwesigye, Kashub Steven; Morales-Oyervidesa, L; Oliveiraa, J.C.; Sousa-Gallagher, M.J.
An integrated process design, which can be applied in small-to-medium batch processing,was proposed. The process is based on the exploitation of intact (whole) cassavaroot, through optimisation of simultaneous release recovery cyanogenesis downstreamprocessing for sustainable wastes minimisation and packaging material development.An integrative seven unit process model flow was considered in the process design mod-elling. Using the release process models, it was possible to predict the maximum yield(45.8%) and the minimum total cyanogens (0.6 ppm) and colour difference (4.0) needed toavoid wastes and unsafe biopolymer derivatives. The process design allowed saving on theenergy and water due to its ability to reuse wastewaters in the reactions and release pro-cesses. Drying rates, Scanning electron micrograph, Differential scanning calorimetry, Watervapour transmission rate and Fourier transmission infrared spectroscopy analyses havedemonstrated the practical advantage of laminar flow hood air systems over oven-dryingheat for integrated process design.Thus, the integrated process design could be used as a green tool in production of cassavaproducts with near zero environmental waste disposal.
Cassava Biomaterial Innovations for Industry Applications
(Cassava Biomaterial Innovations for Industry Applications, 2021) Tumwesigye, Kashub Steven; Oliveira, Jorge C.; Namuwaya, Sheila; Sousa-Gallagher, Maria Jose
Breakthrough innovations can spur growth in the modern era industry to realise sustainability and high returns on investments. Nowadays, biobased innovations for application in diverse industry sectors are considered as future pillars to counter resource depletion and ensure positive environmental impacts. Cassava is a strong flagship biomaterial promoting solution for resource-efficient use and a green environment. Innovative industrial application of cassava biomaterials enriches literature, presenting cassava as a versatile and unrivalled crop that is cardinal for more sustainable environment and biodegradable industrial products. Work on novel cassava biomaterials, which are low-cost, unexploited and with zero competition for food supply, are included. Using an integrated sustainable process, it shows how to indirectly reduce waste streams, through their effective use, guaranteeing zero carbon footprints and acting as a non-traditional strategy for equilibrium atmosphere and active packaging systems. Applications of Cassava biomaterial in food, as food supplements and in packaging systems are also covered in this chapter.
Bean-Based Nutrient-Enriched Puffed Snacks: Formulation Design, Functional Evaluation, and Optimisation
(Food Science and Nutrition Journal, 2020-06-01) Tumwesigye, Kashub Steven; Natabirwa, Hedwig; Nakimbugwe, Dorothy; Lunga'ho, Mercy; Muyomba, John H.
School-age children frequently consume snacks. However, most of the snacks they consume are of low nutritional quality. The objective of this study was to develop a nutrient-rich and acceptable extruded bean-based snack, which could contribute to improve nutrient intake, especially for school-age children. Snack formulations developed from Roba1 beans, maize, orange-fleshed sweet potato, and amaranth mixtures and processed in a twin-screw extruder, were evaluated and optimised for nutritional, textural and sensory properties.
Effectiveness of Bylaws in Supporting Sustainable Crop Intensification: A Case of Potato Farming in Southwestern Uganda
(Journal of Agricultural Extension and Rural Development, 2021) Nampala, Paul; Kibwika, Paul; Makuma-Massa, Henry; Manyong, Victor; Yami, Mastewal
The study assessed the effectiveness of formal and informal bylaws in supporting sustainable crop intensification in potato farming regions of Southwestern Uganda. An exploratory case-study descriptive design was adopted, involving both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The study relied on data from the review of the existing formal and informal bylaws on sustainable crop intensification, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions. A total of 41 bylaws were assessed, involving key informants (22) and FDGs (6) respondents who participated in the study. The effectiveness of formal bylaws was high, because of the significant scores (7-8) on individual principles of effective institutions, with the highest principles being principle 2 (18%) and 7 (18%), and lowest being principle 8 (3%). The informal bylaws covered significantly only 2 principles of effective institutions from the total score 3 (100%). That is, principle 7 (37%) and 2 (33%), respectively. The coverage for 6 out of 8 principles was significantly very low. The study found greater levels of effectiveness significant for 7 out of 8 principles of effective institutions on formal bylaws more than informal bylaws (significant for principle 7 and 2 only), and most effective of the principles being principles 2 and 7 on both categories of bylaws. The study demonstrated the importance of both formal and informal bylaws in supporting SCI as both synergised each other in supporting intensification processes. The study recommends adapting existing bylaws to the eight designated principles of institutional effectiveness.
Farmer Preferred Traits and Genotype Choices in Solanum aethiopicum L., Shum Group
(Journal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine, 2021) Kizito, Elizabeth B; Bishop, Gerard; Nakanwagi, Mildred Julian; Buteme, Ruth; Waholi, Kenneth; Kyebalyenda, Tadeo; Rwothtimutung, Moses; Nahamya, Pamela Kabod; Sseremba, Godfrey; Nakyewa, Brenda
Background: Solanum aethiopicum L. is a nutrient dense African indigenous vegetable. However, advancement of its improved varieties that can increase productivity, household income, and food security has not been prioritized. Further still, studies on some of the crops that have been worked have indicated that it is not a guarantee that the improved varieties will be accepted by the end users and therefore there is need to identify and profile what genotypes are of interest to farmers and their preferred traits through inclusive participatory evaluations. Methodology: Farmer participatory evaluations were conducted to profile farmers’ traits of interest and preferred genotypes. A total of 24 genotypes were established in three replications in 6 farms in 3 districts; Wakiso, Mukono, and Luwero as these are the major producing districts of the vegetable in Uganda. A total of 177 sex-disaggregated farmers were engaged in scoring the genotypes for pest, disease and drought tolerance, general appeal, leaf yield, leaf texture, and seed yield for best 10 genotypes under each variable. Results: Non-significant differences in trait (p > 0.05) and genotype preferences (p > 0.05) were obtained between men and women. The most desired farmer traits were seed and leaf yield, followed by pest and disease resistance. The overall preferred genotype in terms of disease and pest resistance, leaf yield, leaf texture, and seed yield were E12 followed by E11. Conclusion: Gender does not seem to influence farmer choices for the S. aethiopicum, Shum group, indicating an opportunity for single variety prototype advancement by breeders and dissemination by seed companies.
Observations on the Nile monitor lizard (Varanus niloticus, L.) in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda
(African Journal of Ecology, 1983) Edroma, E. L.; Ssali, William Mamiima
The daily activity, feeding habits and intra- and interspecific relationships of the monitor lizard Varanus niloticus (L.) were studied from 07.00 to 17.00 h. The lizards basked in the mornings (07.0049.30) and afternoons (14.30-15.10). They are scavengers and predators.

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