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How does maize fodder maturity impact forage yield and nutritional composition?
Get PDFThis study was conducted to find maize germplasms that provide higher forage yield with a high
nutritional composition. Eight local maize landraces were cultivated with a control variety Badra in Agrotech
Park, Malwatta, Sri Lanka, with all recommended agronomical techniques. The nutritional contents and yield
characteristics of fodder maize were examined at 70, 80, and 90 days after planting (DAP) and the responses were
compared with Badra. The results revealed that SEU17 recorded the maximum fresh fodder yields of 95.71, 79.84,
and 73.14 at 70DAP, 80DAP, and 90DAP harvest, respectively. The total number of leaves and the number of
dry leaves of all maize fodder landraces increased with maturity. The highest number of leaves was observed at
90DAP in SEU17 (14.81) and SEU15 (12.35) had the lowest total number at 70DAP. With maturity, the total
number of leaves and the number of dry leaves of all maize fodder landraces increased. SEU17 (14.81) had the
highest total number of leaves at 90DAP, while SEU15 (12.35) had the lowest total number of leaves at 70DAP.
The dry matter of SEU15 was highest followed by SEU06 and SEU02 at 80DAP. Only the SEU17 had the
significantly highest ash content at both 70, 80 and 90 DAP. SEU16 reported the highest value of Ether Extract
(EE) and Crude Protein (CP) content at 70, 80, and 90DAP. At 70 and 80DAP of harvest, SEU02 and SEU15 had
the greatest fiber content of 27.23 and 30.65, respectively. The two-way interaction between landraces and harvest
stage caused significant (p<0.05) variation in fresh weight, dry matter and CP content. It is suggested that SEU16
and SEU17 landraces be grown forage production under circumstances similar to the current study. Therefore,
these landraces should be used in future breeding programs to generate improved fodder types
Child maintenance
Get PDFChild maintenance, a critical component of post-divorce arrangements, profoundly
impacts the well-being and development of children in Muslim families in Sri
Lanka. This paper examines the deficiencies in the current Muslim Marriage and
Divorce Act (MMDA) regarding child maintenance and analyzes how proposed
amendments aim to rectify these issues and their potential effects on Muslim
families. Based on a review of fiqh literature, Islamic Law categorizes maintenance
as Nafaqa, Hadhana, and Rida'a. Nafaqa refers to providing the essential needs of
the wife and child, including food, drink, clothing, and shelter. The amount of
maintenance is determined by factors such as the father's income, the child's age
and needs, and customary practices. Sections 35 to 36 of the Muslim Marriage and
Divorce Act outline the procedures for providing child maintenance. However,
reforming these provisions is essential to address current deficiencies and establish
fair, consistent, and effective mechanisms that prioritize the welfare of children in
Muslim families. These reforms should be implemented in accordance with Islamic
principles, promoting a more just and equitable legal framework for child
maintenance in the Sri Lankan context
Development of a seaweed-based vegan burger patty rich in protein
Get PDFSeaweed is a versatile plant used globally for food
and non-food applications, valued for its
nutritional and medicinal benefits. In Sri Lanka,
seaweed is abundant yet underutilized due to
limited awareness. This study developed a
vegetarian burger patty incorporating seaweed to
address micronutrient deficiencies. Ulva fasciata
(green algae) and Sargassum sp. (brown algae)
were selected for their high nutrient value. Fresh
seaweed was sorted, soaked in a 4% brine
solution, rinsed, washed, blanched, dried, ground,
and sieved into powder. Steam blanching was
selected to preserve seaweed's nutritional and
sensory qualities, enhancing the protein and
mineral content of burger patties. The proximate
composition (dry basis) of Ulva fasciata includes
24.07%±0.02
protein,
0.81%±0.00
fat,
42.14%±0.01 carbohydrates, 11.59%±0.06 ash,
21.37%± 0.02 fiber, whereas Sargassum sp.
contains 13.92%±0.03 protein, 0.79%±0.00 fat,
49.89%±0.01 carbohydrates, 26.97%±0.04 ash,
7.98%±0.00 fiber, highlighting significant
nutrient content, with Ulva fasciata showing
higher protein, fiber values. Burger patties with
varying
Ulva
fasciata
content
(50%,55%,60%,65%) were prepared with tomato,
onion, garlic, corn flour, and spices. Sensory
evaluation by a trained panel using a 7-point
hedonic scale assessed color, appearance, odor,
texture, taste, aftertaste, mouthfeel, and overall
acceptability. Proximate analysis of the seaweed
based burger patty revealed a moisture content of
32.45±0.013%, fat content of 10.86±0.042%,
protein content of 11.99±0.17%, carbohydrate
content of 30.50±0.14%, ash content of
4.79±0.01%, and fibre content of 8.94±0.03%.
Elemental analysis showed reduced heavy metals
like Pb and As in burger patties compared to raw
Ulva fasciata
Learner engagement in virtual learning environments: a qualitative case study among English teacher trainees
Get PDFPurpose: The objective of this research is to examine the learner engagement in
virtual learning environments and challenges face by the learners.
Design/methodology/approach: This reach is a qualitative case study adopts semi
structured personal interviews and focus group discussions (FGDs). 20 personal
interviews and 8 focus group discussions were conducted among Diploma in TESL
English teacher trainees in two private colleges.
Findings: This research found that though students prefer virtual learning, most of
the students skip online classes than physical lectures. However, they find virtual
learning is tedious and not motivating and they feel that face-to-face physical
classroom is much more effective than virtual since physical classes improve very
positive teacher- students’ rapport. This research also found that the students prefer
blended mode due to many
Practical implications: Most of the research conducted so far has focused on
emergency remote teaching and online learning during the pandemic and post
pandemic. Insignificant research has been done on exploring learner engagement in
virtual teaching and learning environment. This research finding may be an eye
opener for the institutes and teachers to think more about Lerner engagement in virtual
teaching and learning.
Originality value: This research is a one of the cutting edge research which highlights
the new perspectives on virtual learning context
Investigation of edible starch – based coating for the preservation of breadfruit during minimal processing
Get PDFBreadfruit (Artocarpus altilis) is a tropical fruit and it is a nutrient dense fruit
rich in carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins and minerals. Edible coating is a
versatile tool in the food industry to improve food quality and extend shelf
life. The aim of this study is to investigate the edible starch based edible
coating for the preservation of breadfruit during minimal processing. The
samples were cut and different starch based coated breadfruit samples were
prepared. Furthermore, the coated breadfruit samples were stored
refrigerated conditions (4 0C) and the qualities were determined once in two
(02) days. Physical, physicochemical and textural properties and sensory
attributes were determined. The data were analysed using SPSS Software and
they were interpreted at the 0.05 significance level. The physical properties
and physicochemical properties of the sample were significant difference.
When comparing fresh sample, physical properties of storage samples are
decreased and when comparing the salt content of fresh sample, the salt
content of the storage sample is significantly lower. However, the textural
properties of the sample were significantly not difference with fresh sample.
There are no considerable changes in Hardness and springiness of all starch
coated samples. The Corn coated breadfruit samples can be kept for a
minimum 12 days without significantly changing their qualities
Carbon accounting in Sri Lankan SMEs: challenges and opportunities
Get PDFMedium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in Sri Lanka, focusing on both the barriers and
opportunities they face. Despite being a critical component of the Sri Lankan
economy, SMEs encounter significant challenges such as financial constraints, lack
of technical expertise, and insufficient regulatory support. Carbon accounting is not
only crucial for environmental sustainability but also enhances operational efficiency,
risk management, and access to green financing, contributing to long-term business
sustainability.
Design/Methodology/Approach: A mixed-methods approach was adopted,
integrating quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews across various sectors to
provide a comprehensive understanding of carbon accounting adoption.
Findings: The findings reveal that although awareness of carbon accounting is
increasing, implementation rates remain low. Key barriers include limited access to
relevant technologies, inadequate financial resources, and a lack of expertise,
especially for domestically-focused SMEs. In contrast, SMEs involved in
international trade demonstrate a higher propensity for carbon accounting adoption
due to external regulatory pressures and competitive demands.
Practical implications: The study highlights significant opportunities for SMEs
adopting carbon accounting, including enhanced access to green financing, improved
market reputation, and better alignment with international sustainability standards.
These benefits contribute to operational efficiency and offer a strategic advantage in
competitive markets.
Originality value: This research provides valuable insights into the challenges and
benefits of carbon accounting adoption among SMEs in Sri Lanka, a relatively
underexplored area in the literature. The study concludes with actionable
recommendations for policymakers, emphasizing the importance of developing
sector-specific frameworks, financial incentives, and capacity-building programs to
help SMEs overcome existing barriers. These measures are essential for promoting
widespread carbon accounting adoption, thereby enhancing the sustainability and
global competitiveness of Sri Lankan SMEs
Job satisfaction and organizational commitment of administrative officers in state universities in Sri Lanka
Get PDFPurpose: The purpose of this research was to study the relationship between job
satisfaction and organisational commitment of administrative officers in state
universities in Sri Lanka.
Design/methodology/approach: Data collected from 136 administrative officers
working in 15 state universities employing a structured questionnaire were used for
the study. Data were analysed using mean and standard deviation, Pearson product
movement correlation, independent t-test, one-way ANOVA and multivariate
regression.
Findings: The results reveal that administrative officers are satisfied with their jobs
in general. Professional growth opportunities, opportunity for advancement,
satisfaction with benefits and satisfaction with salary were the lowest mean scorers
among the components. High degree of organizational commitment was found.
According to Pearson product correlation, there was a positive moderate relationship
between job satisfaction and organisational commitment. Job satisfaction components
such as recognition, professional growth opportunities, clarity of mission, work itself,
effective senior management, and presence of core values were found significant
predictors of organizational commitment. The administrators were satisfied and
highly committed in general.
Practical implications: The recommendation to policymakers was to increase
commitment levels by enhancing the significant contributors to organizational
commitment.
Originality value: This study improves understanding the levels of job satisfaction
and organisational commitment of the administrators of state universities in Sri
Lanka, identifying factors that can improve their job satisfaction and organisational
commitment
Sri Lankan marbles: geochemical and mineralogical insights into economic potential
Get PDFThe central region of Sri Lanka hosts extensive marble deposits with significant
mineralogical and geochemical variations across different locations. Understanding
these differences is essential for assessing the potential and practical applications of Sri
Lankan marble on a large scale. This study investigates the economic potential of
marbles from Naula, Matale, Digana, Ampitiya, and Balangoda, employing X-ray
Diffractometry, Thermogravimetric Analysis, Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry,
and Wavelength Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence analyses. The study identifies three
types of carbonate formations: (i) dolomitic marbles, (ii) calcite-rich marbles, and (iii)
monomineralic calcite deposits. Dolomitic marbles are prevalent in the studied areas,
whereas calcite-rich marbles and calcite deposits are concentrated in specific geological
areas. Both dolomitic marble and calcite deposits are sufficiently abundant for
economic mining. Dolomitic marbles have a CaO content of 30.5–34.24 wt% and MgO
content of 13.3–21.82 wt%, making them suitable for industrial applications MgO
extraction and precipitation of CaCO₃ (PCC) due to their high MgO and low impurity
levels (SiO₂: 0.48–2.31 wt%; FeO: 0.003–0.5 wt%). Calcite-rich marbles, with CaO
content ranging from 49.69–51.79 wt% and MgO content between 3.54–4.35 wt %, are
not economically viable for large-scale production due to their limited thickness and
restricted distribution. The calcite deposits in Balangoda primarily consist of coarse
crystalline calcite, with 94.18–98.73 wt% CaCO₃, and ball-milled calcite yields over
90% of particles in the 1–10 μm range, with low levels of impurities (MgO: 0.31–1.96
wt%; FeO: 0.05–0.25 wt%; SO₂: 0.3–1.15 wt%). This makes it ideal for use as Ground
Calcium Carbonate (GCC) in paper, rubber, and paint industries. These findings
highlight the substantial economic potential of Sri Lankan dolomitic marble and calcite
deposits, offering promising opportunities to reduce dependency on GCC, PCC, and
MgO imports
Consumer purchasing behaviour on spicy products in Matara District, Sri Lanka
Get PDFVarious factors influence the consumption of spicy
products, making it essential to identify their
significance for satisfactory consumption levels.
The purpose of this study is to identify the elements
that influence customer purchase decisions in the
Matara district, as well as their awareness of
available spicy items and future demand trends. A
semi-structured questionnaire was administered
to a sample of 384 spicy product consumers,
collecting data across eight dimensions: price,
quality, brand name, convenience, availability,
packaging,
nutritional
value,
and
recommendations. Descriptive and multiple
regression analyses revealed that quality,
nutritional value (16.15% for both), and price
(15.89%) significantly influence purchasing
decisions, while other factors were not statistically
significant at 0.05. Preference hierarchy among
consumers shows that chilli pieces are the most
preferred, followed by curry powder and chilli
powder. The study found high consumer
awareness of Freelan's spicy products, with
95.05% of participants familiar with the brand.
The most commonly used spices include chilli
pieces, curry powder, and chilli powder, with
awareness rates of 17.71%, 15.89%, and 15.63%,
respectively. Consumers primarily learn about
Freelan products through Freelan outlets and
supermarkets, which capture 23.96% and 23.44%
of awareness, respectively. This research provides
valuable insights for marketers and producers of
spicy products, highlighting the importance of
competitive pricing strategies and brand
development to meet consumer preferences and
enhance market share in the Matara district
Investigation of the growth of broiler chicken fed with azolla supplement
Get PDFBroiler chicken plays an important role to meet the protein requirement of
the growing population with low production cost. The study aimed to
enhance broiler chicken weight gain using alternative feed, specifically dry
Azolla supplement to contribute the sustainable feeding management. 90
chicks from Cobb-500 breed were randomly and equally divided into two
groups with three replicates and each consisting of 15 chicks for the
experiment. One group of chicks was given commercial feed (T1) and the
second group was fed with feed containing 90% commercial feed and 10%
of dry Azolla (T2). The feeding trial was conducted for eight weeks and the
data were analysed statistically. The results on weight gain showed that
weekly mean weight gain between T1 (54.50±44.32g) and T2
(54.67±43.36g) was not significantly different (p<0.05) throughout the
feeding trial. Similarly, weekly mean FCR between T1 (1.48±0.20) and T2
(1.46±0.19) was not significantly different (p<0.05). The results on sensory
evaluation of cooked broiler meat showed that chicken meat T2 group had a
greater appearance (7.03±0.85), colour (7.16±1.01), odour (6.8±1.42),
texture (7±7.17), tender (6.73±1.41), delicious (6.6±1.42), firmness
(6.13±1.79), uniformity (6.86±1.13) and overall acceptability (6.9±1.51)
than T1 group. Having the findings on the positive effects on sensory meat
quality of the birds fed with the Azolla mixed feed (T2), it is concluded that
the Azolla can be promoted in feeding broiler chickens even though no
effects were found on weight gain and FCR. It is recommended that further
studies are needed on the cost effectiveness of the Azolla feeding