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Item Development of Natural Flavor Enhancer for Tastemaker Spice Mixture of Instant Noodles from Tomato (Solanum lycopersium) and Evaluation of its Quality Parameters(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2016) Thilakarathne, R.M.D.C.Mono sodium glutamate (MSG) is one of the widely used flavor enhancer which gives characteristic umami flavor. It is mainly used for the spice mixture of instant noodles as a seasoning ingredient. But it is identified as highly carcinogenic substance thus it is essential to find an alternative to MSG. Tomato is a good source of glutamic acid, which provides a natural umami flavor. So that it could be introduced as an alternative to MSG. Therefore, objective of this study is to evaluate the quality parameters of fresh tomato pulp and develop a natural flavor enhancer for tastemaker spice mixture of instant noodles from micro-encapsulated tomato powder. In this study, Padma Fl hybrid tomato variety was selected and two different freeze dried tomato powdered samples were prepared. First sample was prepared by using microencapsulation with 10% Gum Arabic (GA) and other sample was freeze dried without GA. Proximate composition, antioxidant activity and lycopene content of fresh and freeze dried tomato samples were analyzed by using AOAC 2000, 2,2- diphenyl- 1 -picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay and the physio¬chemical properties (pH 5.126+0.00, TSS 4.533+0.05, Titratable acidity 0.4906+0.01, moisture% 6.50%±0.00, color, texture, water activity 0.4979+0.00, antioxidant content 1.49 mg/ml) and proximate analysis (Ash content 0.072733+0.000, crude protein 0.117567+0.00, crude fat 0.104450+0.00) were analyzed for the product according to standard AOAC methods. The GA coated powder sample which shows the highest antioxidant activity was chosen as the best freeze dried powder sample. Then four recipes were developed using different amounts (0.25, 0.5, 1, and 1.5 g) of GA coated powder sample, while all other ingredients remained constant. Sensory evaluation was carried out for 25 untrained panelists by using hedonic and ranking tests and spice mixture containing 1.5g of GA coated tomato powder was selected as the best recipe. It can be concluded that microencapsulated freeze dried powdered tomato could be effectively used as a flavor enhancer for the spice mixtures used in the instant noodles industry. However, further studies should be needed to evaluate the shelf life of the final product in order to ensure the stability of the final product. Key Words — Mono sodium glutamate; Umami taste; Tomato powder; Micro-encapsulation; Gum ArabicItem Optimization of Direct Organogenesis Protocol for Dendrobium Orchids(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2016) Aluthmuhandiram, R.I.Dendrobium is one of the largest genera of Orchidaceae, having high demand in Sri Lankan floriculture trade due to their unique features. The aim of this study was to develop a direct organogenesis protocol for Dendrobium orchids with efficient sterilization protocol and to study the best explant stage along with different combinations of growth regulators on shoot and root induction as a cost-effective method for commercial in vitro propagation. The multiplication study was conducted using six different media in two factor factorial Completely Randomized Design with six replicates. Shoots of the variety V9 and NWST of Dendrobium were successfully established with minimum contamination by following the protocol developed for surface sterilization, using stepwise rinsing with several disinfectants. In multiplication study, the liquid MS basal medium supplemented with 1.0 mg LI 6-Benzyl Amino Purine (BAP), 0.5 mg L' Naphthalene Acetic Acid (NAA) followed by MS + 1.0 mg LI BAP + 0.5 mg NAA + 1.0 mg L- Indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) was reported as the best medium for both shooting and rooting for variety V9. In variety NWST, MS +1.0 mg LI BAP+0.5 mg LI NAA media composition reported as the best shooting as well as rooting medium (p<0.05). The above stated effective sterilization procedure along with shoot multiplication and rooting protocols could be used in commercial in vitro prolfagation of V9 and NWST. Keywords: BAP, IBA, In vitro propagation, NAA, Surface sterilizationItem The Evidence of Agriculture Related Self- Employment Decisions Making in Sri Lanka(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2016) Bogodage, J.N.Development of self-employment in agriculture sector is one of the critical pathway to achieve sustainable economic growth and alleviate poverty in Sri Lanka. Current government's policy framework is designed to supports the domestic agricultural sector especially, agricultural self-employment. However, the employed worker population in non-agriculture sector has surpassed the agriculture sector by absorbing the agriculture workers to both industry and service sectors. Consequently, there is a potential for these policies promoting agricultural self-employment that it might fail to generate the expected results. Therefore, this study was designed to determine factors influencing choice of occupation in agricultural & non-agricultural self-employment. A sample of 9,531 self-_employed individuals were isolated from the nationally representative, Household Income Expenditure Survey in 2016. A multinomial logit model was estimated to analyze different occupational choices of agriculture self-employment. Results revealed that males highly tend to be self-employed in farming, fishery & service sector while females are in animal husbandry, value-added food processing and industrial sector. Well-educated individuals are less inclined to choose agricultural self-employment with the aim of engage in high-paid non-agricultural employments. Moreover, household size inversely influenced on choice of agricultural self-employment. Married women are more likely to be self-employed in value-added food processing. Lack of tenure ownership caused to reduce relative investment of tenure on agricultural self-employment. Lack of land holdings eliminates the basic requirement to be self-employed in agriculture. Moreover, insufficient credit facilities and inability to obtain loans are the main.hurdles to be faced in agricultural self-employment. Therefore, the study suggests that the priority given for the agricultural self-employment when implementing national policies is limited despite the overarching considerations and should consider enhancing access to agricultural lands, rehabilitation of left alone agricultural lands and facilitating credit especially to the new labor market entrants. Keywords: Agricultural self-employment; Choice of occupation; Determinants of agricultural self-employment; Multinomial logit modelItem Effect of Different Potting Mixtures on Crop Growth and Yield of Lanka Sour Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2016) Chathurika, D.J.G.K.Tomato is one of the widely cultivated vegetable crops in the world. Lanka sour tomato is a traditional tomato variety in Sri Lanka. Various potting media use for tomato cultivation with a combination of organic and inorganic substrates. There are significant issues with inorganic substrates. There are many waste products available in Sri Lanka which has the potential to use as organic potting substrates. Therefore, this study was performed to identify the most effective potting mixture for Lanka sour tomato. Five different potting media were used including(T1) Topsoil+ compost (control), (T2) Topsoil + compost + coir dust, (T3) Topsoil + compost + Half bum paddy husk, (T4) Topsoil + compost + sawdust, (T5) Topsoil +compost + Tea waste. The experiment was conducted at Uva Wellassa University under controlled environment conditions. The experiment was laid out in a Completely Randomized Design with five replicates. Relevant treatments were mixed with a 1.1.1 ratio (w/w) respectively. Growth parameters such as number of leaves, number of branches, plant height, stem girth, chlorophyll content, root length, and root weight were measured. Number of flowers, number of fruits, fruit yield, fruit Brix and fruit pH were recorded as yield parameters. The highest number of leaves (523.40±117.38), stem girth (3.38±0.04cm), plant height (70.24+5.42cm), and chlorophyll content (64.09+11.09) were recorded in the T3 potting mixture. Furthermore, the number of fruits (14.80+5.02), fruit yield (1007.2±252g), fruit Brix (4.9±0.12), and fruit pH (5.37+0.12) were also higher in T3 than other treatments. T4 showed the,.highest root weight (17.60±4.56g) and root length (33.50±8.77cm). T5 had the highest electrical conductivity (395 p,S cm-1). T4 had the highest water holding capacity as a percentage of 67.99%. Half burn paddy husk incorporated potting mixture gave highest growth performances and yield of Lanka sour tomato. Paddy husk is an agricultural waste that has great potential .to utilize as an organic substrate for tomato cultivation. Keywords: Lanka sour tomato, Potting mixtures, Growth, YieldItem Effect of Different Fertilizers on Growth Performance and Yield of Lanka Sour Tomato (solanum lycopersicum L.)(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2016) Meegallage, G.M.S.P.Tomato cultivation in Sri Lanka is an intensive and highly commercialized system. The continuous application of inorganic fertilizers leads to a decline of soil characteristics, accumulation of heavy metals in plant tissues, and harm to human health. Application of organic fertilizers a noble and eco-friendly practice to maintain sustainable soil fertility. Currently, there is an emerging trend towards the consumption of organically produced fruits and vegetables. The present study was performed to study the effect of different fertilizers on the growth and yield performance of Lanka Sour tomato, a traditional tomato variety, which has been poorly studied in Sri Lanka. Tomato was cultivated inside a protected house at Uva Wellassa University, Sri Lanka. The experiment was laid out in a Completely Randomized Design with five treatments and five replicates. The treatments consisted of control (No fertilizer) (To), inorganic fertilizers (Urea, TSP, and MOP according to Department of Agriculture recommendations) (T1), compost (T2), poultry manure (T3), and cow dung (T4). Topsoil and sand (1:1) were used as the potting mixture. The pH, electrical conductivity, available nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and exchangeable potassium (K) were analyzed in the potting media. The compost consisted of cattle manure, green manure, coir dust, dolomite, hay, and Gliricidia. The highest nutrient composition (N-3.3%, P-4%, and K-3.1%) was recorded in compost. Und6r growth parameters, plant height, number of leaves, number of branches, stem girth, chlorophyll content of leaves, root dry weight, and root length were measured. The number of flowers per plant, number of fruits per plant, fruit weight, fruit pH, and total soluble solid of fruits were taken as yield parameters. Significantly (p<0.05) highest growth performances {plant height (81.10+3.83cm), number of leaves/plant (841.4+81.0), stem girth (3.86±0.15cm), and root weight (28.04±10.12g)} were observed in compost treated plants. Moreover, the application of compost significantly (p<0.05) increased the number of flowers/plant (27.8+6.6) and fruit yield/plant (731.8±55.6g) in tomatoes. Results of the study indicated that Lanka sour tomato well responds to organic fertilizers, and compost application had promising effects on both growth and yield performances. Therefore, the present study suggested that there is a high potential to cultivate Lanka sour tomato under organic fertilizers. Key words: Compost, Fertilizers, Growth, Organic, Tomato, YieldItem Labor Migration, Remittances and Entrepreneurship: Evidence from Sri Lanka(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2016) Kumara, R.D.S.S.This research aims at determining the impact of Migration and Remittances on entrepreneurship in Sri Lanka. Migration is considered to increase income of the household by receiving international remittances and local remittances and thus it may affect for the start new business. As remittances are supposed to help solve most of household constraints by even affecting the commencement of new businesses. At the initiation of the business, the entrepreneurs face financial problem which could be solved by remittances from migration. Thus, this study examines the determinants of migration and remittance using Household Income and Expenditure Survey (2016) data of Department of Census and Statistics of Sri Lanka. Data were analyzed descriptively and using probit regression model. We used Stata software for Analysis part of this study and . we applied probit regression model in this study for estimate major three factors. Such as migration, remittance receive and entrepreneurship which are consider as dependent variables in this study. Also most of the variables were statistically significant at the 10% significant level. Based on these results and finding we have concluded that migration helps to start new business but remittances not. Also we found some household and household head characteristics which affect on migration, remittance receipt and entrepreneurship. Finally end of this study, we can suggest that Government can implement some action to resolve the financial problems and enhance the business knowledge of people by lending loans under low-interest rates and organizing business knowledge development programs. we can increase business ownership percentage by implement properly above mentioned action. Key words: Migration, remittances, entrepreneurship, determinants, probit regressionItem Developing an Agriculture Information System (Ais) to Uva Agriculture: Determining The Information Needs of Different Stakeholders(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2016) Samarawickrama, N.N.Agricultural information plays a vital role in the agriculture sector. All stakeholders required right information at right time in the right format to make correct decisions in their activities. The study facilitated the identification of required information needs and the involvement of sources and channels for farmers and officers. To do that the study employed a survey for data collection. In the study, findings revealed that farmers need information throughout the farming life cycle and officers need the information planning and management activities. Further, the study collected data analyzed through descriptive statistics and regression analysis. The results indicated that farmers need more information about related crop production. For that, they used multiple sources and channels. Among them, self-knowledge ranked as the most used information source. Also, interpersonal channels are considered the most used information channels. As officers' results indicated that production and farmers-related information are important for them to do their activities. To acquire the information, they mostly used interpersonal and scientific meetings. The study results emphasized that all stakeholders need information according to their own condition rather than in a general manner. As a solution for that the study recommends ICT mediated AIS that can connect all stakeholders and provide information according to their own context-specific manner.Item Taxonomic Identification, Population Variation and Damage Assessment of Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum Blume) Leaf Miner in Sri Lanka(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2016) Samarasinghe, W.D.Cinnamon leaf miner is a common minor pest in cinnamon cultivations of Sri Lanka. Present study was undertaken to identify the larval taxonomy and adult morphology, population variation and damage assessment of cinnamon leaf miner. For the identification, the insects reared both under field and laboratory conditions were observed and published standard taxonomic keys were referred to identify the larva and external morphology of the adult was compared with the previous reports of the experts. In order to study the population variations one hundred number of tagged plants were selected with new flush and counted the number of infested leaves over a period of time until the leaves of the selected cinnamon plant were matured. For damage assessment progressive expansion of the mine created by the leaf miner was measured using grid sheets. Image J software was used to calculate infested area and for both, graphical representations were formed. The initial instars of the larva were transparent, whitish in colour and it changed to a glittering red towards the pupation. Larva was characterized by the strong and sclerotized mandibles which enable it to vigorously devour leaf tissues. Antennae were short, three segmented and located towards the front of the head. Unequal, five stemmata were located laterally and posteriorly to the antennae. Four segmented strong thoracic legs ended with a claw. Abdomen consisted of 8 segments while pseudo legs were located on the iii, iv, v and x abdominal segments. Equal crochets were in a complete circle. The larva made an irregular shaped tunnel inside the immature leaf of cinnamon and continued to grow up to a length of 5mm inside the mine before pupating in a semitransparent external cocoon of 6mm. The adult was a greyish moth of 3 to 5mm in length with a wingspan of 7 to 9mm. Wings are entire, scaled, lack stigma on front wing between C and R. Hind wings are fringed. Filiform antenna not knobbed at the tip with more than 41 segments longer than forewings. Proboscis coiled. Tibial spurs are conspicuous. Basal segment of antennae enlarged forming an eye cap. Present study confirmed that the Cinnamon leaf miner belongs to the Acrocercops spp. under Order Lepidoptera, Family Gracillariidae and Subfamily Gracillariinae. The leaf miner population correlated with the availability of immature leaves in the field and resulted considerable damage for Cinnamon plants both quality and quantity wise. Keywords: Acrocercops spp.; Cinnamon zeylanicum; Damage assessment Gracillariidae; Population variation; TaxonomyItem Effect of Spacing, Gibberellic Acid, and 1%1:P205:K20 Ratio on Growth and Yield of Potato Variety Royal(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2016) Ruwanpathirana, C.H.Potato variety ROYAL is suitable for French fries which require long-oval shaped tubers to minimize wastages in processing. Tuber yield and quality depend on N:P205:K20 nutrient ratio and their amounts. Two field experiments were conducted in Nuwara-Eliya using variety ROYAL (a) to evaluate the possibility of changing tuber shape by manipulating spacing and gibberellic acid (GA3) application and (b) to identify the best N:P205:K20 ratio to optimize growth and tuber yield. The first experiment was conducted as a two-factor factorial randomized complete block design (RCBD): factor 1 was intra¬row spacing (15, 20, 25, 30, and 35 cm) and factor 2 was GA3 concentration (0, 150, 200, and 250 ppm; foliar-applied at bulking stage). Inter-row spacing was constant as 45 cm. In the second experiment, Agriculture Research Station, Seetha-Eliya recommended N:P205:K20 ratio (8:3.5:8.5) with organic manure (T1; Control) and the same without organic manure (T2) were compared with three other N:P205:K20 ratios (T3 - 12.5:21:12, T4 - 9:19:12 and T5 - 9:10:16:1 with MgO) in a RCBD. Organic manure was applied at the rate of 25 t ha-1. In both experiments, 4 replicates were used. Spacing and GA3 interaction was not significant (P>0.05) for tuber yield and shape. The yield per plant increased as intra-row spacing increased but the yield per unit land area decreased with increasing spacing. GA3 effect on tuber yield was insignificant (P>0.05). GA3 at 200 ppm recorded the highest number of long-oval shaped tubers (62% increment). The ratios of N:P205:K20 considered had no (P>0.05) significant effect on growth, yield, and quality. Therefore, a fertilizer ratio with low nutrient input (T5) will be a better option as it is cost-effective and environmentally friendly. Moreover, closer intra-raw spacing (15 cm) with 200 ppm GA3 can be recommended for higher yield per unit land area with more long-oval shaped tubers. Keywords: Growth hormone, Plant density, fertilizer, long-oval shape, GA3Item Isolation of Natural Colourants from Crude Green Tea Extracts for Food Applications(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2016) Liyanage, S.P.A natural food colourant is any dye, pigment or any other substance obtained from a natural source. The demand for natural food colours in the international market is increasing rapidly due to the increasing public awareness on harmful effects of synthetic food colourants. Hence this study was aimed at isolating food colourants using green tea based refuse tea and dust grade as a value added product. Accordingly, colour extraction of refuse tea (8 % moisture, 5.58 % ash, 15.51 % crude fiber, 2.06 % fat and 19.68 % protein) and green tea dust (6.06 % moisture, 5.63 % ash, 14.55 % crude fiber, 2.07 % fat and 15.57 % protein) was initially done by sonication and simple water bath techniques. The most desirable samples were then selected based on the colour intensity values (b*) and absorbance values. The selected samples were stabilized with 3 % carrageenan which converted the filtrate into a gel. The stability of the colourants was studied against pH, concentration and time-temperature combinations. The consumer preference for the products were studied using a structured sensory evaluation. According to the results yellowness (5 Y8/10 to 5 Y8/12) could be expected in 3 to 4 pH range in refuse tea based colourant and yellowness (5 Y8/6 to 5 Y8/10) could be expected in 3 to 6 pH range in the green tea dust based colourant. It was observed that with the increase of the temperature darkness of the colourant significantly rises, especially from 60 °C and above, resulting in a hue approximated to caramel black. Both colourants showed yellow hues from 0.3 to 2 % v/v concentration level. Moreover both colourants are having considerable levels of polyphenol content, antioxidant activity and caffeine content, which contribute to human health promotion. Therefore, it can be inferred that developing colourants using crude green tea extract to be sustainable and safe alternative for synthetic colourants used in the food industry. Keywords: Dust; Extraction; Green tea; Natural food colour; Refuse teaItem Improvement of the Growth Performances of Gerbera (Gerbera jamesonh) Through Agronomic Practices(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2016) Jayalath, U.J.C.H.Gerbera (Gerbera jamesoni) is one of the top ten most common commercial cut flowers in the world according to global floriculture trends. In Sri Lankan export floriculture industry Gerbera plant has contributed in earning foreign exchange over the last few years. Therefore, this study was aimed to improve growth performances of Gerbera through modifying agronomic practices for the period often weeks from transplanting. Hence, potting media and irrigation schedule were modified and evaluated for the improvements of growth performances of Gerbera. The research was conducted as two experiments. In the first experiment, effect of three different media (Media A: Coir dust only, Media B: Coir dust: half burn paddy husk: sand= 7:2: 1 , Media C: Coir dust: paddy husk: sand: black soil: cow dung-- 4:2: 1 : 2:1) were tested under two different irrigation schedules (schedule X: 1 to 4 weeks,100 ml; 5 to 7 weeks,120m1; 8 to 10 weeks,135 ml in every two days, schedule Y:1 to 4 weeks,50 ml; 5 to 7 weeks,60 ml; 8 to 10 weeks,70 ml in every alternate day) as pot experiment in Completely Randomized Design with ten replicates. Combined treatment of Media A with irrigation schedule of X was observed as the best as it reported the significantly highest plant average leaf height (37.8 cm), plant average diameter (46.4 cm) and.percentage of flowering (46%).The second experiment was conducted to understand the differences in germination percentage of seeds which were subjected to storage condition and without storage and found the highest seed germination percentage (78.48%) in seeds which were subjected to storage conditions. Adopting to above practices in Gerbera cultivation will be benefited in quality flower production. Key words: Agronomic practices, Germination percentage, Irrigation schedule, Potting mixtureItem Study on Authentication of Palmyrah Jaggery Using Chemical Tests(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2016) Theivendralingam, I.Palmyrah jaggery industry is one of the ancient and large cottage industries in northern Sri Lanka. There is increasing consumer demand for jaggery due to its health promoting factors such as rich nutrient content and low glycemic index. Nevertheless, it is adulterated with substances like refined sugar and rice bran in order to increase the profit margin. Authenticity of jaggery is questionable in the market since there is no simple analytical methods exist to detect adulterations. This study focused to identify the authenticity of Palmyrah jaggery using chemical tests. Samples of genuine jaggery and jaggery adulterated with different levels of sugar and rice bran were prepared in triplicates. Samples were subjected to analysis of acidity and contents of sulfated ash, reducing sugar, non-reducing sugar, total ash and materials insoluble in water. Genuine _ jaggery had significantly higher contents of total ash (3.25±0.52-3.44±0.10%), matter insoluble in water (1.29±0.07-1.21±0.7%) and Acidity as acetic acid (0.14±0.03-0.18±0.03%) as compared to adulterated sample. Reducing sugar and non-reducing sugar contents of genuine jaggery were in the range of 2.74±0.12% -5.16±0.34 % and 77.1±0.50% -82.210.56% respectively. Adulteration of jaggery with different percentage of refined sugar influenced on reducing and non-reducing sugar contents. Reduction in reducing sugar content and increase in non-reducing sugar content were observed in jaggery samples with the increase in adulteration of them with refined sugar. Sulfated ash content of genuine jaggery (3.4610.53-3.650.35%) was significantly higher than that of adulterated jaggery (3.14±0.36-0.32±0.04%). It can be concluded that acidity and contents of sulfated ash, reducing sugar, non-reducing sugar, total ash and materials insoluble in water can be used as reliable parameters for authentication of Palmyrah j aggery. Key Words: Jaggery, Palmyrah, Adulterations, Sulfated ash, authenticationItem Morphological Features Identification and in-Vitro Screening of Chemical Fungicides Against Rigidoporous microporus the Causal Agent of Cinnamon white Root Disease(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2016) De Silva, N.S.W.T.H.Rigidoporus microporus is a wood invasion fungi that causes white root disease in cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum Blume) which is considered as a lucrative commercial crop in Sri Lanka. This pathogen has the ability to degrade wood by decomposing lignified cell walls using hydrolytic and oxidative enzymes. Rigidoporus microporus is able to survive in soil with the absence of wooden substrates. The white root disease has spread throughout the country's cinnamon growing regions by causing yield losses which eventually leading to economic loss. This disease was mainly identified in the cinnamon plantations where rubber had grown previously. Although this disease causes significant economic loss towards the cinnamon, information regarding the disease, causal organism and control measures are lacking. This study was conducted to identify the morphology of Rigidoporous microporous and in-vitro screening of inhibitory activity of selected fungicides against the causal agent. Sulfur, tebuconazole and hexaconazole were used as the fungicides. Rigidoporus microporus was isolated from the infected roots of cinnamon. Isolated fungus was cultured in PDA at 28±2 and the morphological characters were observed after seven days. White colour fibrous fungal mycelium was observed in infected roots which was firmly attached to the bark of the root. On cultured plate fully grown circular shaped, white color dense fibrous mycelium was observed with many branching like structures. Under the compound microscope, threadlike network was observed with a hyaline septate hypae and clamp connections. Under, in-vitro evaluation of the fungicides, maximum inhibition Of the fungal growth was observed in the tebuconazole & hexaconazole whereas minimum growth inhibition of the colony was observed in sulfur. In this study morphological features of Rigidoporus microporus, the causative organisam of cinnamon white root disease were identified and evaluated the effectiveness of systemic fungicides against the pathogen. . Tebuconazole & hexaconazole were highly effective against the causal agent (Rigidoporus microporus) of cinnamon white root disease.Item Evaluation of Growth and Yield Performances of Two Potato Varieties, CONNECT and MASAI Under Different Levels of Nitrogen Fertilizer(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2016) Dharmasena, W.G.C.P.Potato is extensively grown in Nuwara-Eliya and Badulla districts under Sri Lankan conditions. Although a fertilizer recommendation by the Department of Agriculture is available for potatoes, farmers do not comply with it. Instead, fertilizers are overused in up-country in many instances causing economic losses, and health and environmental issues. However, there are low-fertilizer responsive potato varieties such as CONNECT and MASAI that can produce optimum yield under lower nitrogen (N) but show abnormalities under higher N applications. A field experiment was conducted in Nuwara-Eliya to identify the effective N level to optimize the yield and quality of CONNECT and MASAI potato varieties. The experiment was arranged in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with five N levels (110, 150, 190, 230, and 270 kg ha 1) and replicated thrice. The N level of 230 kg ha-1 was the N recommendation of the Agriculture Research Station, Seetha-Eliya, while 270 kg ha-1 was a rate applied by some farmers. Phosphorus (100 kg ha-1) and potassium (250 kg ha 1) levels were kept constant with all treatments. Nitrogen level had no significant (P>0.05) effect on tuber yield or dry matter content in both varieties meaning that the yield was not affected even by the lowest N level used. The potato yield ranged from 22.54 to 25.67 and 13.62 to 19.66 t ha-1 in CONNECT and MASAI, respectively. In MASAI, 110 kg ha-1 of N recorded the highest number of tubers (6.5 plant-1), whereas 230 kg ha-1 recorded the lowest (4.1 plant-1). The N level had no significant (r>0.05) effect on the number of tubers in CONNECT. In conclusion, the lowest N level (110 kg ha-1) can be recommended for MASAI and CONNECT potato varieties as it is an economically and environmentally sound option without causing any yield or quality reduction in the present study and further research is suggested for confirming results. Keywords: CONNECT, Fertilizer, MASAI, Potato, Tuber yieldItem Chemistry and Bioactivity Studies of Horse Gram (Macrotyloma Uniflorum)(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2016) Madheeha, M.F.Horse gram is an underutilized pulse crop grown in wide range of adverse climatic conditions. It occupies an important place in human nutrition and has rich source of protein, minerals, and vitamins. The importance of horse gram was well recognized by the folk/ alternative/ traditional medicine as a potential therapeutic agent to treat kidney stones, urinary diseases, piles, common cold, throat infection, fever etc. The presence of nonnutritive bioactive compounds has shown a significant effect on physiological and metabolic implications in human health. It possesses potent properties to scavenge free radicals. In this article, research progress is presented on the Antioxidant properties, a-amylase inhibition activity, a-glucosidase inhibition activity, lipase inhibition activity, and total polyphenolic content of raw and roasted brown horse gram and raw and roasted black horse gram. Antioxidant activity was determined by DPPH radical scavenging activity using Ascorbic acid as standard, and various concentrations of the extract solutions were measured at 518nm. a-amylase inhibition activity was determined using Acarbose as standard, and various concentrations of the extract solutions were measured at 540 nm. a-glucosidase inhibition activity was determined using Acarbose as standard, and various concentrations of the extract solutions were measured at 415nm. Lipase inhibition activity was determined using Orlistat as standard, and various concentrations of the extract solutions were measured at 405 nm. TPC was determined by Folin—Ciocalteu colorimetric method using Gallic acid as standard, and various concentrations of the extract solutions were measured at 765 nm. Natural antioxidants present in several medicinal plants are responsible for inhibiting the harmful effects of oxidative stress. Plants contain polyphenols that act as free radical scavengers and reduce oxidative stress and may be an alternative remedy to cure various harmful human diseases. Also this study aims to calculate IC5o value of extracts and standards.Item Development and Quality Evaluation Of Avocado (Persea americana) Based Nutritious Supplement Food(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2016) Lionel, U.P.L.M.Postharvest loss of avocado (Persea americana) is very high due to lack of proper indices for maturity detection, seasonality, uneven ripening, and less attention for using product development. This study was aimed to develop avocado-based nutrient-rich supplementary food using dehydrated avocado powder. The avocado fruits in proper maturity were selected and dehydrated using an air dryer(55°C), heat pump dryer(40°C), and freeze dryer(-55°C) followed by blanching and without blanching. The pretreatments (1.5g/L) were used such as a citric, ascorbic, combination of citric and ascorbic, and control. The best treatment was selected based on Browning Index (BI). Supplement food was prepared using a different combination of avocado (40%, 50%, and 60% w/w). Proximate composition, physicochemical properties, and sensory properties of the avocado powders and initial physicochemical properties (as; pH, total soluble solids (TSS), lightness (L*), red/green coordinate (a*), yellow/blue coordinate (b*) for the final product was determined. Sensory data were analyzed by Friedman's non-parametric test using 7 points hedonic scale by 20 untrained panelists. Physicochemical properties were analyzed using the ANOVA test by MINITAB 17. The lowest moisture (7.57±0.01%) and highest ash (3.86±0.00%) were recorded by heat pump-dried samples, while the highest crude protein (14.84±0.00%) was recorded by freeze-dried samples, ''and the highest crude fat (20.31±0.00%) was given by the Sample dried using air dryer. A significant difference (P<0.05) was observed in all physicochemical properties. The TSS content was significantly increased while pH, ascorbic acid content, and colorimetric measures were reduced during the two months of storage period. Heat pump dried without blanching ascorbic acid-treated (B1=56.03±3.28) avocado powder was selected as a qualitatively and economically best treatment for product development based on its properties. Initial physicochemical properties of the product as pH, TSS, L*, a*, b* were 5.67±0.03, 1.53±0.05%, 63.86±0.26, -4.40±0.40, 27.32±0.13 respectively. Based on sensory evaluation the 50:50 avocado powder can be used for product preparation with oats, soybean, Centella asiatica, and vanilla in 25:15:5:5 ratio. The dehydrated avocado powder can be successfully used to develop avocado-based nutrient-rich supplementary food. Further studies are needed to evaluate its shelf life and select a suitable packaging. Key words: Supplement food; Avocado powder; Blanching; Citric; AscorbicItem Assessing the Potential of Using Selected Plant Species in Extracting Natural Fibers(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2016) Kaushalya, J.R.J.Natural fibers are becoming popular over synthetic fibers due to their outstanding properties such as biodegradability, renewability, stiffness and low cost. In this backdrop identification of potential plant species for extracting fiber is important. Plant fibers contain a substantial amount of cellulose that could be extracted and separated from other compounds such as lignin and hemicellulose. These by products also has a potential to be used in many industries in ecofriendly manner. Fiber bearing plants such as pineapple (Ananas comosus), Cyperus involucratus and Agave angustifolia are widely available in Sri Lanka but not well studied for potential uses. The aims of this study were to investigate the potentials of selected plant species in extracting natural fiber and to characterize the fibers. Fibers were extracted from stems of Cyperus and leaves of Agave and pineapple by carrying out mechanical (Raspador machine) and chemical extraction (2% NaOH). The experimental design was two-factor factorial complete randomized design with three replicates. Extracted fibers were characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffractometer (XRD) and texture analyzer. Interaction effect of plant species and extraction method on the extracted fiber amount was not significant (p>0.05). Dry fiber content was significantly higher in Cyperus (6.9±0.6%) followed by Agave (2.1±0.4%) and pineapple (2.3±0.5%). Mechanical method produced 74.4% higher fiber content compared to chemical method. Both FTIR and XRD conforms the cellulose structure. Chemically extracted fiber showed better crystallinity and Cyperus recorded the highest crystallinity index (64,2%). Agave recorded the highest tensile strength of 507g (4.97 N). Extracted fibers from different plants could be utilized in different industries depending on the final quality of the extracted fibers. Keywords: chemical extraction, crystallinity index, fiber content, mechanical extraction, tensile strengthItem Extraction of Natural Flavor from Mango (Mangifera indica L.) for Food Applications(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2016) Ubasinghe, S.P.N.P.S.Processed food products with natural mango flavor are rarely present in the market and they are with high cost as mango is a perishable and seasonal fruit. This study was carried out with the objective of extraction of natural flavor from mango fruit using a commercially applicable method. Four extraction techniques namely ultra sound assisted extraction, shaker extraction, steam distillation and clevenger apparatus were employed. Based on the preliminary studies, shaker extraction was selected as the best extraction technique while Tom EJC mango variety was selected as the best variety among the tested mango varieties. Samples were prepared using 40% (v/v) ethanol and water as the solvent systems by using 1:5 solute: solvent ratio and were extracted using shaker technique. A sensory evaluation conducted for extracted two flavors have indicated that organoleptic properties such as odor, flavor, after taste and overall acceptability were higher in mango flavor extracted using 40% (v/v) ethanol. This flavor was with pH value 5.04, total soluble solids 10°13x, titratable acidity 0.59+0.03% and 108.2712.8 g/L of alcohol. The best flavor selected from sensory analysis was used to develop mango flavored stirred yoghurts with four different levels; 5%, 7.5%, 10% and 12.5%. Another plain yoghurt was prepared without adding flavor as the control. Evaluation of the properties of each yoghurt by using complete randomized design and one way ANOVA for each property pH, total soluble solids, titratable acidity, syneresis, viscosity and color exhibited a significant difference among each flavored yoghurt. Grouping using tukey pairwise comparison and considering the properties with plain yoghurt have indicated 12.5% is most preferable level from the used levels for mango flavored yoghurt production. At this level most of the physicochemical properties were similar to plain yoghurt while maintaining the mango flavor and exceeding that level was not cost effective. Accordingly, mango flavor extraction using low fiber variety with characteristic flavor like Tom EJC mango with shaker technique using 40% ethanol can be recommended to extract natural flavor more efficiently for commercial applications. Keywords: Extraction techniques, Food applications, Mango flavorItem An Empirical Study on Understanding the Impacts of Start-Up Motives in Entrepreneurial Performance Among Small and Medium Scale Entrepreneurs (with Special Reference to Ampara District)(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2016) MOHAMED FAROZ, A.LSMEs play major role in the economy of a country, especially in GDP of the country. Therefore, Entrepreneurs are the backbone of the economy of developing countries and they ensure the well-being of their families and support their society through delivering job opportunities. This study aimed to investigate the relationship among motive factors and the Entrepreneurial Performance of small and medium scale business ventures in Ampara District. The research design was descriptive survey method where it sought to obtain information that describes existing phenomena by asking individuals about their perceptions, attitude, behavior, or values. Primary data were collected through structured questionnaires. The collected data was analyzed using inferential statistics, descriptive analysis, Correlation coefficient analysis and regression test. A sample of 98 entrepreneurs who were engaged with their own start-ups was drawn using systematic random sampling method. Then the researcher pre-processed the data to eliminate unwanted and unrelated data which could have been contradictory or ambiguous for the study. Moreover, the researcher developed a coding scheme by creating codes and scales from the responses which were then summarized and analyzed. The findings reveal that every entrepreneur is motivated by a combination of pull and push motives at the early stage and, in the growth stage, majorly,they have motivated with pull motives. Accordingly, practical implications and avenues for future researches are highlighted. The study would benefit stakeholders since it provides information that can be used for policy formulation. The study would be a source of reference material for future researchers on other related topics and it would assist other academicians who undertake related topic for their studies. Key Words: Entrepreneurs, Start-up Motives, Push Motives, Pull Motives, Entrepreneurial Performance.Item Development of Soursop (Annona muricate L.) Incorporated Probiotic Frozen Yoghurt Fermented by Lactobacillus Acidophilus(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2016) Silva, B.N.N.Soursop (Annona muricate L.) is an underutilized tropical fruit grown in Sri Lanka with the promising nutritional and therapeutic value. The study was conducted to develop soursop incorporated frozen yoghurt (SFY) and to determine its physicochemical properties. Two different wiped cream levels (5% and 10% w/w) and three levels (10%,20% and 30% w/v) of pasteurized soursop pulp was tested. The best product accepted from sensory evaluation, was tested against the control (without added fruit) for physicochemical, microbial, shelf life and therapeutic value. Results showed that 80% fresh milk, 20% soursop fruit pulp were the best combinations for SFY (p< 0.05). According to the proximate analysis moisture, protein, fat, fiber, ash and carbohydrate content of SFY were 71.82±0.4%, 4.36±0.2%, 6.29±0.2%, 0.91±0.1%, 0.93±0.1% and 15.84±0.2%, respectively. During storage, pH and titratable acidity of developed SFY were varied from 4.54±0.01 to 4.47±0.02, and 0.93±0.05 to 4.53±0.01 accordingly. Total soluble solid content, water holding capacity and syneresis of SFY contain 26.83±0.2%, 14.33±1.5% and 13±0.1 respectively. Yeast and mold count did not exceed the Sri Lankan Standard Institute (SLSI) recommended values during the 8 weeks of storage. By measuring probiotic count the therapeutic value was measured in SFY. Probiotic count of SFY was exceeded the minimum therapeutic value during the storage period. Incorporation of 20% (w/v) of soursop into frozen yoghurt is possible and the product can be safely stored for 8 weeks. Key words: Fermentation, Frozen yoghurt, Milk, Probiotics, Soursop