Research Symposium-2015

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Analysis of combining ability and heterosis in tomato (solanum lycopersicum) using full diallel cross
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2015) Jayarathna, R.G.Y.H.; Alwis, L.M.H.R.; Fonseka, H.H.; Welegama, H.M.V.T.
Tomato (Solanumlycopersicum) is the second most important vegetable crop next to potato. Tomato being one of the popular vegetable crops in Sri Lanka is preferred by farmers due to high economic returns, export potentials and nutritive value. Tomato is a rich source of vitamin A, C and minerals like Ca, P and Fe (Dhaliwalet al., 2003). Tomatoes are major contributors of antioxidants such as carotenoids (especially, lycopene and β-carotene), phenolics, ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and small amounts of vitamin E in daily diets (Raiet al., 2012). In Sri Lanka, tomato is cultivated in more than 7137 ha, producing nearly 73917 t/year. (Department of Agriculture, 2010) The record lower yields are attributed to multiple of factors inclusive of elevated and frequent incidences of pest and diseases and inadequate accessibility to quality seeds (Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, 2011). Most improvement programmes of many crops use diallel analyses as they provide breeders information on the genetic value of varieties as parents and to assess the gene action which can be directed at improving yield and other related quantitative characters (Vianaet al., 2001). Therefore, an understanding of the genetic control of characters and role of non-allelic interaction is essential to the breeder when deciding of the selection method and breeding procedure to follow (Esmail, 2007). From diallel analysis, plant breeders are able to gather information on heterosis and effect due to maternal, General Combining Ability (GCA) and Specific Combining Ability (SCA) of parents in crosses (Glover et al., 2005). Materials and method Parents were obtained from the germplasm of the Plant Genetic Resource Centre (PGRC), Gannoruwa, Peradeniya.Seeds of the all possible crosses, reciprocals and Bhathiya were obtained from the Horticultural Crop Research and Development Institute (HoRDI), Gannoruwa from the maha season 2013/2014.
Analysis of Consumer Food Safety Knowledge and Practices in Rathnapura
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2015) Dharmasiri, G.D.H.P.; Sivashankar, P.; Hettiarachchi, I.C.; Mahaliyanaarachchi, R.P.
Food safety is a scientific discipline describing handling, preparation, and storage of food in ways that prevent food borne illness. Unsafe food is the likely vector of multiple biological, chemical or physical hazards and certainly of several nutritional problems. Consumers are the end-users of food chain. With their attitudes, knowledge, age, sex, income level and social status food safety knowledge and practices are different. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), up to 30% of the population of developed countries are affected by food borne illness each year; more than 75 million people get sick from food related illnesses in the USA resulting in 325,000 hospitalizations and 5,000 deaths annually (WHO, 2007). The problem is expected to be even more severe in developing countries. Now Sri Lanka is more concern about food safety and handling practices. There are many rules and regulations. Food Act No. 26 of 1980: This Act controls, manufacture, importation, transport, sale, distribution, advertisement labeling of food. Sri Lankan food & beverage products comply with international standards such as ISO 9000, ISO 22000, HACCP, Halal, Kosher, Organic etc. In Sri Lanka also have many of food borne diseases, but they are not reported often. But mainly diarrhoeal diseases are the prominent. This study assesses the consumer food safety knowledge and the practices among the Rathnapura households. Methodology A survey strategy was used in the research. Target population was the entire household in Rathnapura district 301,876 .Thought it was large to do an investigation within limited time period and inadequate financial budget, multi stage random sampling technique was employed to select appropriate sample to evaluate the objectives of this study. Eventually 120 household were selected as the sample size where can meet 95% confidential level. Five key principles of Food safety by WHO, are used to find out consumer knowledge level in food safety. The association between socio economic characteristics and knowledge on food safety was revealed by applying chi-square test. Prevailing food safety measures were identified by using significant measures like smell, appearance, special package, and price and quality certificates. Consumer food safety knowledge was evaluated with household experiences of physical symptoms associate with food borne illness. And also food preparation, purchasing and storage practices were used to identify food safety knowledge and practices of consumers. Analysis was done by using Minitab 14.0 software package and Microsoft Excel. Results and Discussion Descriptive statistics for the sample were produced using descriptive statistical analysis. The purpose of generating descriptive statistics was to describe the demographic characteristics of the sample.56% females and 44% males are in the sample. To prevent contamination of food with pathogens spreading from people, pets and pests, separate raw and cooked foods to prevent contaminating the cooked foods, cook foods for the appropriate length of time and at the appropriate temperature to kill pathogens, store food at the proper temperature, do use safe water and cooked materials. Majority of consumer’s (58%) food safety knowledge level was low. 30% of consumers were had high food safety knowledge level.12% had medium level knowledge on food safety. Food safety measures were identified by the study as smell, appearance, special package, and price and quality certificates. Among them 12% considered price, appearance and smell as important factors.7% were merely concern about one factor of them. Smell, package and special offer were identified by 10% of consumers. And also 10% of them were concerned about all measures. Among respondents 63% selected food items without considering about quality certification. The association between socio economic characteristics and knowledge on food safety was analyzed by using chi-square analysis. Income level had significant association with food safety knowledge of consumers. Education level did not show any association on food safety knowledge. 95% of respondents had experienced with any of the food borne illnesses. This shows that consumers have low confident on food safety and how to protect their family from food borne illnesses. Daniels (1998) verified that consumers who considered themselves knowledgeable make food handling errors. By considering food safety practices on storage and preparation, 53% of consumers agreed that peeled and chopped fruits and vegetables kept in open air for long time cause contamination. But 23% strongly agreed that before using vegetables and fruits, they should be soaked in salt water. Only 10% kept cooled vegetables and fruits in open air more than one hour. In purchasing fish, 8% of consumers observed red color gills, discoloration and brightness of eyes. Majority were concerned on one factor. And also 48% were concerned about cleanliness of preparation and operator. Storage period of fish and usage were not concerned by consumers of 36%.some consumers never keep cooked meat and raw meat at the same place in refrigerator (34%). Cleaning of food preparation area with soap and water was practiced by only 6%. Washing the cutting board with water, used to chop vegetables or cut raw meat was practiced by 8% of consumers (Table 01). Lack of knowledge is likely to lead to inappropriate food handling behaviors. Generally, consumer’s knowledge has been found to be inadequate to ensure that food preparation in the home minimizes the risk of food borne illness. Personal hygiene and cleanliness of surfaces where food is prepared were identified as practices that have to be developed. Nearly 48% consumers were concern on personal hygiene highly,
Analysis of factors affecting for Tea buyers’ level of trust on Tea brokers
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2015) Rathnayaka, L. P.; Rathnayaka, R. M. S. D.; Wedande, D.
The tea industry in Sri Lanka has paramount importance to country’s economy. In Sri Lanka, out of total quantity of bulk packaged tea, more than 95% is sold through public auction annually. The main participants of auction system are buyers and brokers. The most important concept, to carry out the business relationship between buyers and brokers is TRUST. All the transactions between buyers and brokers will confirm with the trust before complete the transaction by using monetary terms. In economic terms, trust can be defined as "the belief or perception by one party (e.g. a principal) that the other party (e.g. an agent) to a particular transaction will not cheat" (Paul J. Zak and Knack, 2001). In the case of buyer-broker relationship in the tea industry (relevant to buyers), trust can be defined as a belief of the buyer that the broker will efficiently provide good quality teas without any deceptions, while maintaining the goodwill. Therefore this research was carried out to identify major factors affecting for tea buyers’ trust on tea brokers. Methodology The selected population for the study was all the tea buyers who are weekly buying tea at the Colombo Tea Auction. The data were collected from a sample of 70 tea buyers selected using Simple Random Sampling technique and ranked according to their export quantity (Sri Lanka Custom Data, 2012). Data were collected through a questionnaire by individually giving it to the selected sample. The trust was measured by using ten point likertscales. Data were analyzed using Descriptive Statisticsmanner andbased on Ordinal Logistic Regression analysis techniques.Ordinal Logistic Regression is used to independent variables(ChristensenR.H.B.,2011). The SPSS statistical software, Minitab 16 software and Microsoft Excel were used for both descriptive and ordinal logistic regression analysis.
Analysis of technical efficiency of pepper growers in Kandy district
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2015) Jayalath, J.K.S.; Rathnayake, R.M.S.D.; Seneviratne, M.A.P.K.
Pepper is the second most important perennial spice crop, next to Cinnamon, in Sri Lankan economy, and the most important perennial spice for domestic consumption. The pepper growers have faced severe problems during the last decades. Some of these problems are prolonged fall in the production and productivity of pepper. Agricultural productivity refers to the output produced by a given level of input(s) in the agricultural sector of a given economy (Fulginiti and Perrin 1998). Technical efficiency reflects the ability of producers to maximize output for a given set of resource inputs (Chirwa 2003).The Department of Export Agriculture in Sri Lanka with the mandate of perennial spices launched several programmes to develop this sector, including subsidy schemes for new planting, replanting and infilling, fertilizer subsidy schemes and extension services. Despite such efforts, the performances of spice based agro-forestry systems are not satisfactory. The average yield of pepper is 350-500 kg per hectare, but target yield is 1000 kg per hectare (Department of Export Agriculture in Sri Lanka 2002). Farmers have less information on efficiency. In order to realize increased production and efficiency, farmers in Sri Lanka need to efficiently utilize the limited resources accessed for farm income generation. This research determined efficiency levels of pepper farmers and identified socio economic factors affecting efficiency levels. Methodology The study was conducted in Kandy District in 2014. Kandy district comprises with 6,982.8 ha of cultivated land of pepper. The total sample size was hundred (100) respondents from six selected extension office ranges. Multi Stage sampling technique was used. Primary sample data was collected from farmers using a survey method involving a structured questionnaire which was administered to the selected pepper producing farmers in Kandy District. The analysis of Cobb-Douglas frontier production function was tested by ordinary least square (OLS) and maximum likelihood estimation (MLE). STATA version 11 was used for the summary statistics and estimate coefficient of stochastic frontier and measure technical efficiencies.
Analyze the Histamine level in various positions of the Histamine developed Tuna fish
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2015) Kalubowila, K.S.H.; Liyanage, N.P.P.; Perera, A.
Sea food processing industry is a high income generating field in Sri Lanka and it brings high foreign exchange to the country. Big eye tuna (Thunnus obesus) and yellow fin tuna (Thunnus albacares) are the major tuna types which are exported by Sri Lanka to the international market. (FAO, 2014).However the presence of Histamine is the problematic factor inTuna fish processing industry which leads the industry to many health issues and income losses. Histamine is a chemical compound created from histidine and enteric bacteria are capable of transforming histidine to histamine by the enzyme decarboxylase. Once histamine is formed, it cannot be not destroyed by freezing, cooking, smoking, curing or canning. Histamine level of more 2012).Histamine level varies position of the tuna fish body. Hence this research was carried out to identify and analyze the Histamine level in various positions of the Histamine developed tuna fish. Methodology Survey was done to select the positions of taking samples from tuna fish. 15 fresh fish processing companies were selected and questionnaire was given. Three positions were selected based on the questionnaire filled by the fish processing companies. Three positions of the tuna fish were selected, beneath the pectoral fin of the fish, near the belly area and the tail end respectively and thirty tuna fish were subjected to Histamine test individually. ELISA method and histaminevertox test kit were used to analyze the histamine levels in the tuna fish.Sample preparation, sample extraction, sample dilution and Histamine testing are the major steps done in ELISA method. Collected data were analyzed by using Minitab 17 software.Highest mean values and variance values were taken from those positions. Non parametric Mann-Whitney test was done to find out the significant different among positions. Results and Discussion Highest mean values and variance values were taken from those positions. High Histamine was recorded in the belly area due to the most of the bacteria which responsible for converting Histidine to Histamine, lived in the gut of tuna fish. Through poor post-harvest techniques, low hygiene practices, bad catching method, bad killing methods and bad handling methods could expose the gut material to the fish muscles and so enteric bacteria easily release the Histidine decarboxylase enzyme to Histidine free specific amino acid and then forming Histamine (Koohdaret al., 2010).This reaction cannot be stopped and can only be controlled. Usually low histamine levels could be observed from gilled and gutted fish because gilled and gutted fish had low probability to contaminate by histamine forming enteric bacteria (Ebrahimet al., 2012).Very low Histamine level was recorded in the tail area because effect of enteric bacteria which lived in the tail was very low because of that ability to bacterial contamination also very low and histamine also very low.
Android mobile driving assistant for highway drivers
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2015) Iloshini, P.A.A.; Thambawita, D.R.V.L.B.
Mobile based driving assistant that always communicate with the driver in an interactive way, has not introduced yet. It assists the driver when he is driving on highways and driver can control the assistant through his voice command. Mobile Driving Assistant helps driver to clarify the way that he drives. In addition, the driving assistant carefully examines the facial expressions of the driver and if he is in a drowsy condition, assistant suggests alternatives to overcome from those situations. This is a friendly interactive guide for the highway drivers. Recalling the history, in 2002 Ji and Yang (2002) has presented a detection drowsiness system based on infrared light illumination and stereo vision. This system localizes the eye position using image differences based on the bright pupil effect. Brandt et al. (2004) has shown a system that monitors the driver fatigue and inattention. For this task, he has used VJ method to detect the driver’s face. Using the optical flow algorithm over eyes and head this system is able to compute the driver state. Tian and Qin (2005) have built a system for verifying the driver’s eye state. Their system uses Cb and Cr components of the YcbCr color space; with vertical projection function this system localizes the face region and with horizontal projection function it localizes the eye region. Once the eyes are localized the system computes eye state using a complexity function. Pallavi M, S. Gawali in 2012 their research paper demonstrated the new non-intrusive approach for monitoring driver drowsiness depending on the driver and driving data fusion. They use percentage of eye closure (PERCLOS) model for estimating driver status. The driving information such as lateral position and steering wheel angle also use for drowsiness detection. Multilayer perceptron neural network has been trained for optimal performance score in this research paper. Yong Du, Peijun Ma in 2008 published a research paper on effective vision based driver fatigue detection method. In this at primary stage, the inter-frame difference approach binding color information is used to detect face. Marco Javier Flores and Jose Maria Armingol in 2008 presented the basic model for drowsiness detection. For this they used Viola & Jones (VJ) method to detect the driver’s face. Once face is detected SVM is used to detect eye status from trained data. Methodology For implementation of the Mobile Driving Assistant application, Samsung Galaxy Core was used as the mobile device and the android version 4.1(API level 16) was used as the development environment. The internet and GPS services need to be activated in Mobile Device. The Mobile Driving Assistant is based on android platform supported mobile phones only. Java was used as programming language and common programming language to develop android applications. ADT bundle was handled as IDE for the implementation. Android voice recognition and android Text-To-Speech facilities were focused in order to maintain the voice discussion between the driver and the mobile driving assistant. Applications that available in Android platform can potentially make use of any speech recognition service on the device that's registered to receive a Recognizer Intent. Google's Voice Search application, which is pre-installed on many Android devices, responds to a Recognizer Intent by displaying the "Speak now" dialog and streaming audio to Google's servers. The Android platform includes a Text-to-Speech (TTS) capability. Also known as "speech synthesis", TTS enables an Android device to "speak" text in various languages. Face and eye blinking detection is the most important module of the mobile driving assistant. Haarcascade_lefteye_2splits.xml files, distributed with OpenCV package were used to detect eyes when eyes are opened. OpenCV 2.4.9.0 was used for the image processing purposes.
Anticoagulant activity, antibacterial activity and toxicity effect of selected plant in Asteracea family
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2015) De Silva, H.S.U.; Wijesekara, K.B.; Premathilake, S.N.
Traditional herbal medicine is used for maintain the health of people since ancient time. Herbal medicinal related drugs are safe and have fewer side effects. Due to that reason the usage of herbal medicine is popular in all around the world. Medicinal plants play major role in various types of medicinal activities (Ramya et al., 2009). Among those treatments medicinal plants have the wound healing activity and anticoagulation activity. Plants have the ability of management and treatment of wounds due to its antibacterial activity (Ukwueze et al., 2013). Various types of plant have the ability of anticoagulation and such plants claimed in the traditional system still remain to be scientifically investigated (Narjis, 2013). Among such medicinal plants Emilia sonchifolia, Ageratum conyzoides and Mikania micrantha have various medicinal activities. At the same time Emilia sonchifolia, Ageratum conyzoides and Mikania micrantha show some toxicity effect. Due to that reason it is necessary to identify toxic effect of these plants. Zebrafish eggs are used in toxicological and pharmacological activities due to its small size of fish and transparency of eggs and embryos. Changes in the morphology of development of zebrafish embryos can easily observed. Due to that reason zebrafish eggs is used as a toxicological model to test toxic effect of these three plants (Rahman et al., 2012). The aim of this research is to formulate and evaluate the antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus which is one of the major wound infective pathogen, anticoagulation activity and toxicity effect of these three plants. Methodology Plants were collected from university premises with the consideration of environmental conditions. Powdered plant materials were extracted with methanol, using Soxhlet apparatus at a controlled temperature. The extracts were concentrated to dryness under reduced pressure using rotary vacuum evaporator at 40°C. Various concentration of extract solution were prepared using stock solutions. Agar well diffusion method was used to test antibacterial activity. MIC was determined for extracts lowest concentration that showed more than or equal 7 mm diameter growth inhibition zone. Prothrombin Test (PT) was used measure coagulation time for test anticoagulation activity. Zebrasfish eggs were used as toxicological model for test toxic activity of three plants. Results and Discussion Highest amount of plant extract were showed by leaves part of each plant while roots were given lowest amount of plant extracts.
Antioxidative properties and Lactobacillus population in traditional Sri Lankan pickle during fermentation
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2015) Madusanki, K.S.; Liyanage, R.; Jayathilake, C.
In recent years, probiotic products have become a primary choice for the consumers because of their health attributes (Yen-Ping Tan, 2007). Pickle may be a suitable product of carrying probiotic bacterial strains to the host. Pickling is a method of fermentation of vegetables to extend their shelf life. That process consists with the basis of reducing the pH value due to conversion of sugar to acid by lactic acid bacteria (LAB). LAB are greatly important for human health as they help balance human intestinal flora, thereby boosting overall immunity (Amit et al., 2012). Antioxidant compounds in fermented foods play an important role as a health protecting factor. Scientific evidence suggests that antioxidants reduce the risk for chronic diseases including cancer and heart disease. There is no reported study done on evaluating the nutritional properties of Sri Lankan vegetable pickles fermented with coconut vinegar. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the population growth of Lactobacillus, pH, total phenols and antioxidant activity during fermentation of Sinhala pickle. Materials and Methods Sample preparation, determination of pH and Lactobacillus population The samples for the isolation of LAB included the fermented mixed vegetables which was prepared by mixing thoroughly, cleaned and diced vegetables (carrot, red onion, raw papaya, green chili) in coconut vinegar solution, and was allowed to ferment at ambient temperature (32 C±2). The microbial spread plate method was used to isolation of LAB in the MRS media from the pickle sample. The pH of the withdrawn aliquots at every 24h during the fermentation was monitored using a digital pH meter (HI 2211, USA) at 32 C (Shori et al., 2011). Determination of Antioxidant Activity and Total Phenolic Content Antioxidant activity (AOA) was measured by DPPH radical scavenging activity method according to the method developed by Adak et al. (2013) with little modifications. Total phenol content (TPC) was measured by Folin-Ciocalteu method with some modifications (Kriengsak et al., 2006). Results and Discussion Population of Lactobacillus in pickle Traditionally, the fermentation of Sinhala pickle is processed by the LAB. The results showed that the bacteria population increased from an initial number of 8.0997 0.56 Log10 cfu/g after 24 hours fermentation at 37 ⁰C. The maximum bacteria growth was observed after 48 hours fermentation which had significant difference with other ratios of bacteria except 72 hours bacteria count. After three days storage at 37 ⁰C, the bacteria population decreased but, no significant difference was observed among other storage time. In contrast, the numbers of LAB were much reduced at the end of storage (Table 1).
The Arduino controlled incubator to control temperature and humidity
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2015) Selvanigethan, S.; Wanniarachchi, W.K.I.L.; Ekanayake, R.M.T.C.B.
The incubator with the aid of a tungsten bulb to maintain the temperature and the water and a desiccator to maintain humidity was developed. The aim here is to enhance the ability of maintaining accuracy in temperature and humidity to keep them in desired value with bulb, water, and copper sulfate desiccator. Obtained results show a tolerance of 2% in temperature, and 3% in humidity inside the incubation area for a finite range. Incubators are widely used for hatching the eggs, food preservation, and laboratory purposes. Overall the incubator was made to study the ability to maintain humidity simultaneously with the temperature and also the accuracy of the both factors in relation to the expected output values. There were ways to maintain a temperature with a reduced error percentage but not clear ways exist to maintain the humidity with minimized error. The system is a closed loop one with feedbacks of the outputs time to time to check and reduce the error percentage. The controller is an on-off controller and the system is controlled by Arduino programming board (Arduino Mega – AT Mega 2560). Since the system is a simple on-off controller system the accuracy of the system is not perfect as well as a fuzzy logic controlled system or Proportional-plus-integral- plus-derivative controller system. Anyway the system suits for normal purposes in agriculture, food preservation, and egg hatching where a range of the temperature or humidity is only required. The system uses sensors to sense the temperature and humidity. The use of heat emitted from a bulb in temperature change is studied in this setup. The effect of exposure of water in adding water vapor to a space to increase the humidity, and the effect of copper sulfate desiccator in absorbing the water vapor to decrease the humidity are also studied throughout the research. Methodology A wooden box was made and the lower part of the box was separated by a wooden plate. In the separated lower part a water containing basin was fixed under the separation plate. The plate was drilled and an opening was created to make an interface between the face of water and the upper part of the area. The opening was closed by a plastic door and a 5.0 voltage gear motor was fixed with the door in order to control the opening and closing of the door. A tube like structure was created in the upper surface of the wooden plate and 100grams of dehydrated copper sulfate was added inside the tube. The opening of the tube towards the upper area of the incubator was closed by a plastic door and another 5.0 voltage gear motor is fixed with the door in order to control the opening and closing of the door. A 220 voltage, 100 Watts Tungsten bulb is fixed inside the upper part of the incubator which was the incubation area. Two sensors DHT22 humidity sensor, and LM35temperature sensor were fixed in the incubation area in order to measure the humidity, and temperature values. Adequate wirings were made to connect the motors, bulb, and sensors with the control circuit. The control circuit was created using PCB wizard software. A Relay (125VAC, 5VDC), ULN2003A integrated circuit, and L293D motor controller were used to create the circuit. The circuit was connected to an Arduino Mega development board and adequate wiring was made to connect the circuit board with Arduino Mega development board. The Arduino Mega development board was programmed to maintain the system with the desired values of temperature, and humidity.
Assessment of oil yield and quality in cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum Blume) leaves under different severity levels of two types of leaf galls
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2015) Daladawatta, N. P.; Chandrasena, G.; Weerawansha, A. N. R.
Leaf gall infestation in cinnamon, is one of the prominent pest damage found in cinnamon cultivations. In cinnamon, two conspicuous leaf gall types are available. They are upper leaf galls caused by jumping plant louse (Trioza cinnamomi), a homopteran and lower leaf galls caused by Eriophyes boisi, a mite belongs to family Eriophyidae. Two pests are plant sappers and form galls on leaf blade as their habitats. The feeding by Eriophyes boisi or Trioza cinnamomi causes abnormal cell development and formation of galls. Each gall type is identical and their dimensions are variable. The galls are solitary and widespread on the leaf blade but are not on the veins. These Gall forming pests generally do little damage to plants and its bark yield because the affected parts are able to carry out photosynthesis with near normal efficiency. But cinnamon leaf oil yield and its quality may be changed significantly due to gall forming (Perera et. al., 1985; Prematilaka and Dharmadasa, 1995). Therefore this study was conducted to determine the effect of two different leaf galls in cinnamon leaves under different severity levels on the leaf oil content and quality of oil. Methodology Cinnamon leaf samples infested with two types of galls, were collected from a field in Palolpitiya, Matara. Leaves only suffered from upper and lower gall infestations were harvested separately and categorized each of them into five pre-determined severity levels for oil extraction. Four severity levels of upper leaf gall infestation 1-50, 51 – 100, 101 – 150 and more than 151 galls per leaf and four severity levels of lower leaf gall infestation 1 -15, 16 – 30, 31 – 45 and more than 46 galls per leaf were compared with cinnamon leaves without galls separately. Five treatments were assigned in randomized complete block design with five replicates. 50 g of air dried cinnamon leaf sample taken from each severity level was weighed and all the galls in the sample were isolated and weighed. Weight of galls in each severity level was expressed as a percentage to the whole sample weight. Each sample was subjected to extract leaf oil by hydro distillation. Amount of the major chemical components present in the extracted oil samples were measured by performing Gas Liquid Chromatography (GLC). Oil content and quality were subjected to analysis of variance and regression analysis by SAS programme. Results and Discussion Thus it revealed that leaf oil contents were significantly different with the intensity of upper gall infestation (Table 1). It was observed that cinnamon leaf oil content had been lost from 10.48% at 25.62% severity to 74.26% at 97.26% severity. Same trend was observed in the case of lower gall infestation (Table 2), but oil reduction due to this infestation had been occurred from 25.87% at 22.7% severity to 96.45% at 99.63% severity. Experimental results showed that mite galls (lower leaf galls) had reduced the oil yield in greater than the insect galls (upper leaf galls). Both upper and lower leaf gall infestations were caused to reduce the oil yield in cinnamon leaves and those infestations showed a strong negative significant relationship with the oil content in cinnamon leaves (Fig. 1 and 2). Prematilaka and Dharmadasa (1996) reported about 35% of oil reduction could be made due to upper leaf gall infestation, but the current study revealed that loss of oil content has been varied on severity of infestation.
An assessment on the possibility of process modification for crumb products, from manual packing to a semi-automated packing mechanism
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2015) Fernando, H.S.S.; Wickramasinghe, I.; Lalantha, N.
Production management is an area of management concerned with overseeing, designing and redesigning business operations in the production of goods and services. Automation of a packing line will increase the productivity and will reduce contamination. Modern warehouses are called distribution centres, to emphasize that they only profit by moving goods. To a distribution centre, storage represents unproductive assets. In present era, fast food consumers are looking for readymade products and increased interest is shown in partial replacement of meat system with extenders/binders/fillers (Sohila, 2008). In recent times there has been a remarkable increase in demand for ready to eat meat products (Duxbury, 1989). Therefore food industry is now forced to develop a variety of convenience products with improved quality and lower cost to meet increasing demand for meat based food products (Thomas et al., 2007). The study evaluated the current packing mechanism with new, planned semi-automated mechanism relevant to the aspects such as overall labour effectiveness, warehouse utilization and etc. After analyzing the current and future scenarios, the study focused on the suggesting a vacuum packing operation for crumb products. Methodology The packing volume and the consumed labour hours were observed and noted in the data collection sheet as to evaluate the productivity difference between labour and machine. Then the chicken drumstick samples were subjected to a transport trial and the number of non- conformance units of chicken drumstick occurred in the transport trial was observed and noted regarding the current pack arrangement and new pack arrangement. Then two different arrangement methods were compared by using two sample T test to see whether there is a significant difference in defects/non conformances occurred during transportation (ISTA Guidelines). Also the number of non-conformance units of chicken drumstick occurred in the transport trial was observed regarding the new pack arrangement relevant to 310 gsm and 350 gsm pack densities. Then two different gsm packs were compared by using two sample T test to find out whether there is a significant difference in defects/non conformances occurred during transportation (ISTA Guidelines). The sample (10 g) was taken in to a 100 ml beaker and 25 ml of distilled water was added and mixed well. Then the pH measure was taken. About 5 g of the sample was weighed in to a moisture dish which was previously dried in an oven maintained at 105˚c and weighed. Once in every week TPC, E.coli count, Streptococci spp. count and fungus count were tested for each vacuum packed and non- vacuum packed samples. The sensory qualities of vacuum packed and non vacuum packed crumbed products (Chicken drumstick) were evaluated by a panel of ten panelists who were trained to familiarize with the sensorial attributes of fried chicken drumsticks using differentiating and descriptive tests. Result and Discussion According to One sample T test results, Labour packing productivity was significantly different (P<0.05) from the given machine packing productivity and unionized labour packing productivity was significantly different (P<0.05) from the non-unionized labour packing productivity. Also the “c” of cobb-dougles function was less than 1 and it reveals that non- unionized labour is more productive. According to the Two sample T test result, defects occurred in current packing arrangement was significantly different (P<0.05) from the defects percentage that occurred in new packing arrangement for 1kg and 300 g packs and defects occurred in 350gsm packs was not significantly different (P<0.05) from the defects percentage that occurred in 310gsm packs which are arranged in new packing arrangement for 1kg and 300g packs. Space saved by the new arrangement, for 1kg pack was 0.84 x 10 m and for 300g m . In the Two sample T test, vacuum packed chicken drumsticks and normal packed chicken drumsticks had a significant difference (P<0.05) in moisture levels measured in the consecutive storing weeks. Vacuum packed chicken drumstics have a less variation pattern compared to the normal packed chicken drumstics in moisture percentage. But there was no significant difference in pH variation (P>0.05) between the two samples. Salmonella, E.coli, Staphylococci. Spp., Yeast and mold were not observed during the 8 weeks of storing period (-18 ˚C) in both the vacuum packed and normal packed chicken drumstick samples. But the Total plate count increased with the storing period (-18 ˚C) according to the packing method. According to the Kruskal-Wallis test results colour, texture, taste and overall acceptability were significantly different in the vacuum packed (sample 622) and non vacuum packed (sample 351) chicken drumsticks. But odour was not significantly different between the two samples. Also the panelists more preferred the vacuum packed sample.
Awareness and adoption of recommended technologies and management practices by the Tea small holders
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2015) Karunarathna, W. A. B. S.; Mahindarathne, M. G. P. P.
Tea (Camellia sinensis) is the world famous beverage next to the water and having numerous health and socio economic benefits. Tea, the prominent crop of the plantation sector in Sri Lanka, grows in many parts of the country (Mendis, 1992).Tea growers who have lands less than 10 acres in extent are treated as “Tea small holdings” according the Tea Control act. The cultivation of tea is attractive to small farmers because tea provides work and income throughout the year, requires relatively little investment, and the risk of complete crop failure is small (Annual Report, Tea Small Holdings Development Authority, 2012).As well as the Contribution of small holders to the Sri Lankan tea sector is higher than the plantation sector and it is account for 71.4 % of the national tea output (TSHDA, 2012). Therefore, application of scientific agricultural knowledge and technology adaptation in the small holding tea sector is a vital investment to enhance the productivity and overall performance of the tea industry. Materials and methodology Data were collected through a sample survey by giving a structured questionnaire to 8 tea inspector’s (TI) ranges at Badulla administrative district and 150 small holders were randomly selected as the respondents. The questionnaire was mainly formulated to identify the awareness, level of adoption, and factors affecting to the level of adoption. The awareness was measured by percentage of aware respondents. The adoption level was measured by using “Adoption index” and “Confident interval method”. Adoption index was categorized in to three levels as low adoption, medium adoption and high adoption. To identify the factors affecting to level of adoption, regression analysis was conducted and “Adoption on Technology and recommended practiced” has been taken as the dependent variable and data were collected for dependent variable under five categories as Machinery usage, Planting materials, Field practices, Recommended tests and Extension services. For the independent variables data were collected under nine categorical variables as Gender, Age level, Education Level, Source of Income, Experience with Tea land, Land ownership, Land extent, Time spending with tea land and Yield. Data were analyzed using SPSS Software package and MS-Excel 2010 package. Descriptive statistics were done to analyze the independent variables and by using regression and correlation analysis factors affecting to the level of adoption was analyze and their strength was measured. Results and Discussion According to the study only 26 % of respondents have the awareness regarding machinery usage in tea plucking and from them, 48.7 % belongs to year 40 – 50 age group. 79.3 % of the respondents have awareness regarding the improved varieties. According to the study 64.7 % of the respondents have an awareness regarding recommended tests like pH test, starch test which use at the field. Extension services have been accounted under two categories as consulting services and E-consulting services and according to the study 100 % of the respondents have an awareness on consulting services while 36 % of the respondents have awareness on E-consulting services. According to the results of the study it shows that awareness on shade trees, pruning methods and soil conservation methods are respectively 95.3 %, 90.3 % and 93.3 %. Level of adoption was calculated using Adoption index and confident interval method. Data were collected under five categories and finally overall adoption level for the recommended technology and management practices was calculated
Balancing the benefits of protein content and the risks of trace metal toxicity exposure from Skipjack tuna (Katsuwonus pelamis) consumption in Sri Lanka
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2015) Mahaliyana, A.S.; Liyanage, N.P.P.; Jayamanne, S.C.
Fish is considered as an excellent source of protein that can provide immense health benefits to human being. Protein is the major nutrient in fish consumption and it is highly digestible and consist all the essential amino acids. However, recent claims that marine fish are contaminated with trace metals exceeding the recommended maximum allowable limits have raised concerns among consumers regarding fish consumption. This may lead to rejection of marine fish both by local and export markets (Liyanage, 2009) as fish contaminated with toxic trace metal can lead to acute and chronic effects in human being. In the present study, protein content and major toxic trace metal concentrations in skipjack tuna (Katsuwonus pelamis) which is a major commercial marine fish species were studied with the aim of assessing benefits and risks in consumption of skipjack tuna in Sri Lanka. Materials and Methods Samples of skipjack tuna fish (n = 44) were collected to represent all fish landing site areas around Sri Lanka during April-July, 2014. Concentrations of toxic trace metals Hg, Cd, Pb and As were analysed individually for all the samples while the protein content analysis was carried out for composite samples that were prepared based on gender and standard length of each fish. Crude protein content was analysed according to 928.08, AOAC 2000 standard method. Crude protein content was determined using UDK 132 (VELP Scientifica, Usmate, Italy) semi-automated Kjeltec system. All composite samples were analysed in triplicates. Hg, Cd, Pb and As trace metal concentrations were analysed by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS; Varian240 FS, Varian Inc., Australia) following the standard method in AOAC 1998. All analyses were strictly adhered with quality control procedures. Protein content of skipjack tuna was assessed in terms of benefits with reference to its Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) value whereas the toxicity of each trace metal was assessed based on the stipulated Provisional Tolerable Weekly Intake (PTWI) with the Probable Weekly Intake (PWI) values. Average consumption of skipjack tuna flesh in Sri Lanka was considered as 2.8 g/person/day (MFARD, 2013) and the average body weight of a Sri Lankan adult person was assumed as 55 kg. In addition, resulted mean toxic trace metal concentrations were compared with the established maximum allowable limits for toxic trace metals in Sri Lanka and European Union standards for skipjack tuna. Results and Discussion In order to determine the recovery percentage in crude protein analysis, spiked samples with (NH4)2SO4 were used and the recovery values were maintained within the acceptable range of 90- 110%. The method of trace metal analysis was evaluated for its suitability in terms of their respective Limit Of Detection (LOD) and recovery levels using spiked samples and certified quality control materials. Calculated recovery values for all the trace metals were within the expected recovery range of 80%-120%. The mean standard length of the analysed skipjack tuna fish was 47.4±3.9 cm and the range was 36- 56 cm whereas the mean total weight was 2.2±0.5 kg and it had a variation of 1.1 - 4.2 kg. Among the analysed specimens 24 were males and 20 were females.
Bio assay on effectiveness of the chemical hydrolyzation for denaturing agrochemical contaminated wastewater
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2015) Wickrama, G.M.G.M.M.; Rajapakshae, R.M.G .N.; Liyanage, N.P.P.
Pesticides provide the primary means for controlling organisms that compete with man for food and fiber, livestock and crops. Global insecticide use in 2007 has been estimated 404 000 metric tons of active ingredient (Grube et al. 2011). The agricultural sector is the primary user of pesticides, consuming over four million tons of pesticides annually (Chen et al. 2009 and Chevillard et al. 2012). Most agrochemicals imperviousness to microbial degradation and has tendency to bio-accumulate in the soil fauna and flora. Water contamination has turned into a significant danger to the presence of living life forms in aquatic environment and aquatic organisms are highly susceptible for the agrochemical lethality. Many studies have shown the toxicity effect of agrochemical, but few studies have done to investigate the effectiveness of those treatment methods. Since the usage of agrochemical cannot be banded, best thing is finding a suitable method to detoxify them and understand the effectiveness of the particular method. Hydrolysis is a chemical reaction in which natural constituents respond with water and break into more diminutive (and less toxic) compounds. Fundamentally, hydrolysis is a destructive technology in which the original molecule forms two or more new molecules (EPA, 1993). Hydrolysis could be a viable treatment technology for agrochemical wastewater. In this study the effectiveness of the alkaline hydrolysis was estimated by using field data which were taken from the effluent treated plant (ETF) of agrochemical formulation and repacking industry, and also a bio assay was used to analyze the effect to the aquatic species from the treatment method.
Blood bank management system
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2015) Ekanayaka, E. M. S. S.; Wimaladharma, C.
Requirement of blood for the National Blood Transfusion Service of Sri Lanka has increased in last three years. Hence it is essential to increase the number of blood donors and maintain efficiency and updated service. In the last 10 years, the number of voluntary donors has been increased compared to non-remunerated donors. Though, there is an increased voluntary blood donor, because of the lack of information relating to bold donation, many people become disentitle to donating blood. Because of this reason, National Blood Transfusion Service of Sri Lanka continuously loses a bulk of acquirable blood for a year from people who are willing to donate blood. To organize blood donation campaigns, organizers need to go to the nearest blood bank to inform and get necessary things to organize blood donation campaigns. It is more time consuming and difficult task. Emergency patients, who need blood immediately, request blood through advertising on televisions or social media. To make the matter worse, National Blood Transfusion Service of Sri Lanka gets island wide blood stock update once a month. It causes further difficulty in terms of making decisions. “The Blood Bank Management system” is a web based system that directly addresses above problems by integrating relevant functions. Blood donors can register on the system and continuously they will be notified about the campaigns via SMS (Short Message Service). Campaign organizers can organize campaigns online and get responses from blood donors. Patients can request blood via online or sending a SMS. Daily blood stock can also be handled through the system. Methodology Blood Bank Management System is a web based system with integrating SMS alert function that implemented using HTML, PHP, CSS, JavaScript and JQuery for web development and MySQL for database design. Blood donor can register on the system and it will provide with a donor an ID. Blood campaign organizers can organize a campaign through online. The request is sent to the particular blood bank officer and officer can approve or reject the request. Once he/she approves the campaign, donors may get SMS notification to their mobile by informing the campaign. Not only that, organizer informs with the approved status via SMS to the organizer’s phone. Patients can request blood via online or just by sending a SMS to the system. Then system will inform to all the relevant donors with the request. Blood stock will be handled day by day through the system. Blood bank officer can add or remove a donor to the system and from the system. Also he can add blood stock to the relevant blood bank. Blood Bank Management system has separate Admin panel. Administrator can view island wide blood stock either as blood group or branch. Furthermore, administrator can add a new bank to the system as well as a user to the system. Results and Discussions According to the literature, some online systems are used in some foreign countries. However, there is no proper online system available in Sri Lanka. Blood Bank Management system is an efficient system as it is integrating all the functions with a SMS alert facility. The main goal of the Blood Bank Management system is to gather all the blood donors into one place automatically and inform them constantly about the opportunities to donate blood via a SMS to the donor’s mobile phone. Also the system should have functions to organize blood campaigns online. It makes easier to organizers to organize blood donation campaigns. Also the system is capable of handling blood stocks. Through t he daily updated blood stocks, management can make decisions effectively. Further system facilitates with the function that emergency patients can request blood online or by sending a SMS to the system. Ultimately the system provides proper communication among the blood donors, campaign organizers and the people who need blood.
Bolster entrepreneurial attitudes and intention among post- graduates in India
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2015) Pretheeba, P.; Ponnmani, R.
There is a huge increase in youth unemployment compared to adult unemployment in many regions and persistently high throughout the world (ILO, 2013). Unfortunately, majority of youth labor force prevail in developing economies, where Asia takes the lead. Being the second largest country, huge number of youth domiciliate in India next to China. Large number of youth in India experiences the challenge of structural and frictional unemployment. The latest unemployment figures released by Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation showed a remarkable unemployment in India continued to rise. The entrepreneurship is one of the best career options to relieve from the challenges of unemployment. It plays a vital role in creating new, competitive markets and businesses which lead to job creation and have a multiplying effect on the economic development of the country (Christy & Dassie, 2000; Saini, 2001; UNDP, 2001; Lumpkin & Dress, 1996). Cognize the prominence of entrepreneurship, policy makers in India introduce several schemes to reduce the level of unemployment. Yet, the young generation in India recedes to take-up entrepreneurship as their career option. Becoming an owner of an enterprise could be an alternative for a young person who has an entrepreneurial mindset but needs a person to possess some basic requirements like skills, attitudes and knowledge. Individuals could exhibit varied level of skills, attitudes and knowledge, based on their education, personal traits, environmental and social influences. Hence there is link between education, personal traits, and entrepreneurial behaviour. Thus this research is aimed at providing additional insights and understanding of the relationship between educational differences, entrepreneurial attitude, intention and entrepreneurial behavior. This can help to develop interventions that will enable the individuals to channelize their efforts towards venture initiation. Methodology The empirical analysis has been carried-out on a sample of final year postgraduate students from science and humanities fields of study, during academic year 2013-2014 from non-autonomous colleges in India. The sample size consists of 701 postgraduate students from the various colleges affiliated to Bharathiar University which represents 77% response rate from the total of 900 in the targeted fields of studies. Study used stratified random sampling method to select the sample respondents for the questionnaire. The questionnaire consisted of two parts. The first part consist demographic profile of the respondents. Second part consisted of questions eliciting information about Entrepreneurial Intention, Entrepreneurial attitude and Entrepreneurial Behavior. The survey instrument was based on a five point Likert scale to determine the extent of the agreement or disagreement with the statements. the relationship between entrepreneurial attitudes, intention and behavior and the differences among respondents’ behavior towards entrepreneurial activity according to their domain of specialty variation. Results and Discussion The structural regression model is presented in Figure1. The model is formulated in AMOS, notation using Achievement, Innovation, Self-esteem, personal control, commitment, risk-taking, attitude, feasibility, desirability, motivation, inclination and aspiration for the observed variables, f1 to f12 for the error terms associated with the observed variables, and latent variables are known as entrepreneurial attitude, entrepreneurial intention and entrepreneurial behavior. The model on entrepreneurial behavior among postgraduate students.
Characterization of zero valent iron used for nitrate removal in drinking water
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2015) Shailaja, K.; Weerasooriya, R.
Nitrogen is one of the important pollutants present in drinking water are runoff from fertilizer use; leaking from septic tanks, sewage; and erosion of natural deposits. When nitrate is absorbed in to blood hemoglobin is converted to methemoglobin. Methemoglobin does not carry oxygen efficiently. This results in reduced oxygen supply to vital tissues such as the brain. Severe methemoglobinemia (blue baby syndrome) can result in brain damage and death. In recent years, considerable efforts have been made to remove nitrate in water. The use of zero valent iron to remove nitrate from water represents one of the latest innovative methods in the reducing .process. The major reduction product was ammonia. Zero valent iron in contrast with iron powder have some advantages of specific surface area, high active surface, which lead to a increased denitrification rate of nitrate. Materials and Methods Surface titrations Surface titration was carried out as a function of the concentration of NaCl to determine pH zpc(Point of Zero net proton Charge).Prior to commencement of a titration 10.0g/l zero valent iron was NaNO3) strength. The initial pH value is around 10.0 after equilibration by adding 0.101 mol dm NaOH .Then, surface titration was started from pH 10.0 to 3.0 while bubbling with N2 gas to prevent any interference from atmospheric CO2. All titrations were carried out in thermostatic bath at 25.0 °C. At each titration point the data versus HCl) were measured by an auto titratior. A reverse base titration with 0.101 mol dm NaOH was performed to return the suspension to the original starting pH under same experimental conditions. This titration was repeated for three different ionic strength NaCl).However, only the acid titration data were considered for the analysis.These data unit for surface charge density was calculated.
Classification of virtual learning environment
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2015) Pratheesh, N.
Virtual Learning Environments (VLEs) are more popular in e-learning atmosphere. VLEs are influential learning systems in higher education institutions. It also referred as learning management systems (LMS) and course management systems (CMS). Main function of the VLE is to streamline the course management aimed for various learner groups. VLEs are electronic platforms which can be used to afford and footpath to e-learning and enrich face-to-face education with online components. The functions of the VLEs are computerized the learning administration by helping and recording the learner’s bustle. Formal education and corporate training have different needs and these needs have to be satisfied using VLEs. Teachers are responsible to develop the learning contents in VLE. It provides flexible delivering materials, learning activities and support the tools to create and monitoring. Blackboard and Moodle are commonly employed system in current VLE. Sri Lankan higher education system emphasizes on learner-centric learning. In this concept learner plays a vital role in the learning process and learners are projected to actively involve in the learning process. They have more accountability for their learning process and teachers are accountable for learners’ learning and they frolic the protagonist of “facilitator” who directs the learning process instead of information provider. Learner-centric learning will bestow the learners a deeper and better off learning experience, as there is better participation and involvement in the learning process (Brown S., 2008). The learner-centric learning atmosphere uses the web 2.0 technologies such as blogs, wikis, and social software which helps to publishing the content over the internet (Alexander, B., 2006, Yang, S., 2009). This technology can improve the interactive communication and collaboration among teacher and learners who either possess associated learning resources, or help to discover and obtain it, or are willing to exchange and share with others in the online learning environment. Web 2.0 allows the learner to read and write in the web using create, publish, exchange, share and cooperate on information. This makes the learners become the consumers and producers of learning resources and satisfies the learner-centric learning concepts. Thus, web 2.0 offers a learning atmosphere and have the capability to fundamentally change the nature of learning and teaching, through the invention of learner controlled learning. Methodology VLEs are motivated as the platform for learner-centric learning in the present learning environment, because it helps the learners to control and manage their own learning activities. This comprises the support for learners to fixed their learning objectives, manage their material and communicate with others via learning groups and provides a suitable environment to practice social skills in the learning and accomplish their learning goals. To succeed learner-centric learning, institution have to employ the suitable VLEs according to their learning needs. VLEs are classified according to the architecture of the system. The first classified approach is web-based with loosely joined or tightly joined web services. ELGG and PLEX systems are located udder this category. Second classified approach is based on the platform that supports a rich facility for extension points. Moodle and Blackboard are located in this family. Final classification, highlighted the Social Software concept based system. Result and Discussion The classification of the VLE’s helps the educational institute to properly identify the system within the budget, existing resources, target groups and the needs. This classification helps to maximize utilization of the employed VLE. It motivates the learner-centric learning atmosphere especially in Sri Lankan higher education scenario.
Clientele satisfaction towards the services rendered by government to the tea small holding sector
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2015) Hangawatta, H. A. C. M.; Mahindarathne, M. G. P. P.
Tea is pre-eminent among Sri Lanka’s plantation crops and it is one of the most important industries in the country in terms of employment and foreign exchange earnings (Basnayake , 2002). Next to China and India, Sri Lanka is the oldest tea producing country in the world producing nearly for 150 years (Asopa, 2004). Over the years, the word Ceylon has become synonymous with quality tea. The entire economic base of the country was centered on the plantation sector at the time when Sri Lanka was gaining independence in1948; nearly 32% of GDP came from exports of plantation crops, which contributed 92% of the total export earnings. The development of the small holder sector, especially in the Low country helped to maintain the production level during the 1980’s despite the deterioration of the estate sector production. The smallholder sector expanded very rapidly and presently accounts more than half (76%) of the total production.(Annual Report, Tea Small Holding Development Authority, 2012) Small holders must receive current information and technology for effective management of their production, marketing and financial decisions. Individual characteristics of producers affect on the demand for information services while confidence in the information services is a central determinant of the frequency at which a producer refers to the services. (Yapa and Ariyawardana, 2005).Coupled with the information, financial support is vital to expand and maintain the tea production. This requirement is fulfilled through the subsidy policy of the government. Tea small Holding authority is the institute established as the main supportive body to the small holding sector. Other institutions that are responsible for tea are, namely, Tea Research Institute, Sri Lanka Tea Board and Tea Commissioner’s Department. So the research was conducted to identify the satisfaction level of the small holders towards the services rendered by the government, to identify major factors that cause to farmers satisfaction, to evaluate strong and weak areas of the government service procedure and to make suggestions to overcome the weaknesses in government services. Materials and methodology Data were collected through a sample survey by giving structured questionnaire to randomly selected 150 small holders in 8 tea inspector’s (TI) ranges at Badulla administrative district . The degree of satisfaction of the small holders was the dependent variable and it was measured with respect to five different dimensions of the present government service. The dimensions considered were quality of the service, relevancy of technologies/service, competency of extension personnel, general usefulness/effect and characteristics of extension agent. Responses were obtained from five point Likert scale with scores of 5, 4, 3, 2, 1. Coded and scored data were analyzed by Using SPSS software package. Based on mean and standard error, farmers were grouped in to three as less satisfied group, moderately satisfied group and highly satisfied group. The cut-off points for this categorization was derived by using the formula “mean (X) + or – 1.96 Standard Error (SE)” (V.S Sidhakaran, 2008). Descriptive statistical techniques were used to present the demographic features of the sample. Simple correlation coefficient values were worked out to find out the strength of association between dependant variable and independent variables. Multiple linear regression analysis was worked out to find out the contribution of independent variables to dependant variable. Age, Gender, Education level, farming experience, innovativeness, number of training attended, membership of a small holder association and contact intensity with an extension agent were selected as independent variables.
Cloud computing in business scenario
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2015) Pretheeba, P.; Pratheesh, N.
Cloud Computing has been recognized as a promising model to exploit the power of computer network and communications into business in cost effective way. It provides elastic capacity to all the sectors such as businesses, government and education with flexible price. Present multifarious business environment require organizations to respond quickly to the changes of the market to take advantage of opportunities. It can be achieved through contemporary information and communication technologies. Nowadays cloud computing considered as a resource that is readily available to organizations to attain their business goals promptly. Cloud computing offers a platform to use the collective computing resources. It assembles large number of computing servers and other resources and provides their combined capacity on an on- demand, pay per cycle basis. As per the definition of National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Cloud Computing refers to “pay-per-use” model which enable convenient, on demand network access to a shared pool of configurable computing resources that can be rapidly provisioned and released with minimal management effort or service provider interaction (Mell and Grance, 2009). This definition divulge that in cloud the end users can access the service anytime from anywhere, share data and pool resources more easily, and keep their data safely in the infrastructure. This model promotes accessibility and consists of five key characteristics: they are on-demand self-service, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity and measured service (David S. Linthicum, 2010). In cloud, organizations do not need to invest a huge amount on hardware and software even though the organizations may have geographically separated location. Organization can select the cloud depend on their budget and needs. If the organization prefer public cloud, can get the resources from the cloud service providers such as Amazon, Google, IBM, Yahoo, eBay, Microsoft, etc. or they may have their own cloud. Cloud would be most advantageous not only to the business but also in management of government, health care and education sectors. Business Implications of Cloud Computing One of the most obvious business implication of cloud computing is saves money. Adoption of cloud within the business eco system has the ability to decrease costs in several ways as hardware, software, maintenance, space, equipment, and energy needed to run the business. Hence the cloud enables businesses, the ability to provide regular product or services with lower cost. Cloud in business environment not only reduce the capital investment but also reduce the investment in human resource. Organizations can easily share data across their divisions with the cloud computing technology in the fastest and easiest way which helps the businesses especially in saves the time of the information acquisition. Another implication of cloud is that the organizations do not need to be in one specific location. The organization can be anywhere in the world and they can access the service whenever they need. Even the employees of the organization also do not need to be in their office all the time to complete their work assignment, they can complete the task in efficient manner at any time. Challenges of Cloud However the cloud helps to increase profit, and business value within short time frame while red uce cost, it still in its infancy. It associated with numerous challenges.

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