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A critical evaluation of the ownership and responsibilities of early childhood care, development and education in Sri Lanka
(University of Peradeniya, 2019-09-12) Abesooriya, L.
Early Childhood Care and Development and Education are considered crucial for human development (UNICEF, 2007 cited in Gallardo, 2009). The dearth of research in Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) and education indicate that less attention is paid to its advancement in Sri Lanka. Furthermore, the child related studies conducted in Sri Lanka are limited. This paper presents a critical evaluation of the policies related to the ownership and responsibilities of ECCD and education in Sri Lanka. A qualitative research design was used for this study. Interviews were done with responsible informants at the Children’s Secretariat and Provincial Councils. Furthermore, documents related to ECCD and education were analysed using thematic analysis in order to discover the emerging themes related to the policies of ECCD and education. The findings showed that there is no single designated authority who is responsible in maintaining the early childhood care and education in Sri Lanka. Furthermore, it was noted that the responsibility of ECCD and education constantly shifts from one authority to another. In addition, the contradictions in the policies regarding the responsibilities and ownership was noted. Hence, the requirement for stern and stable policies to establish authorities to maintain and also to share the responsibilities regarding the early childhood development and care and education is highlighted in the present study.
A rare case of stomach perforation inside the thoracic cavity due to a congenital diaphragmatic hernia in an adult
(University of Peradeniya, 2016-11-05) Ranaweera, R.K.M.D.C.D.; Gamage, S.M.K.; Edirisinghe, E.M.D.B.; Wasala, W.M.A.K.O.; Udayakumara, E.A.D.
Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a defect that occurs due to abnormal development of the diaphragm, with herniation of the abdominal contents into the chest. We present an extremely rare case of perforation of stomach which has herniated through the diaphragm in an adult, causing pleural effusion and an empyema thorax. A 40 year old male presented with a three day history of left side chest pain and dyspeptic symptoms. His heart rate was 124 beats per minute, blood pressure was 110/70 mmHg and the respiratory rate was 28 breaths per minute. Air entry was low on the left side. The abdomen was tense but not tender. Urine output was less than 1ml/Kg/hr. A chest X-ray revealed a left side hydro-pneumothorax and so a tube thoracostomy was performed. Following the procedure the patient had intestinal contents draining through the tube. Urgent non-contrast computerized tomography (NCCT) of the thorax was performed. It revealed intestinal contents inside the left hemithorax with pleural effusion. The left lung has collapsed due to a massive pneumothorax with mediastinal shift. An urgent left thoracotomy was performed. The stomach, part of the omentum and spleen were herniated through postero- lateral (foramen of Bochdalek’s) diaphragmatic defect. A perforation of 1.5 cm was found on the anterior surface of the stomach with gross contamination of the left hemithorax. The lower lobe of the left lung has collapsed. The pleural cavity was washed thoroughly. Perforation was repaired with 2/0 PGA interrupted suturing. A midline laparotomy was performed on lateral position. A congenital defect of the diaphragm was identified and repaired with 2 Nylon interrupted. A thoracotomy was closed with chest drain in situ. The peritoneal cavity was washed and closed over a drain in supine position. A post-operative chest X-ray revealed fully expanded left lung with the left hemi diaphragm located in the normal position. He developed empyema of the thorax and had full thickness burst of the upper abdomen which was managed accordingly. The patient recovered and was discharged from the ward after 14 days of hospital stay. Although congenital diaphragmatic herniae are seen among children, presentation in adults is rare. Perforation of viscera in such a case is even a rare occurrence where a high degree of suspicion is required to identify and manage the condition. Standard thoracotomy with laparotomy on lateral position gives optimum exposure for surgery for such cases.
A stringent eco-labeling scheme to rule out greenwashing from Sri Lanka: suggestions for a legal framework
(University of Peradeniya, 2016-11-05) Karunawardhana, U.
As present day consumersare remarkably inclined to make their purchasing decisions based on the product’s impact on the environment, labeling goods and services according to ecological criteria has become a popular practice around the world. Hence, among manifold policies formulated in furtherance of sustainable development, eco-labeling or green labeling has seized much attention. However, an eco-label which merely green-washes a product could mislead consumers who intend to minimize the adverse environmental impacts by purchasing environmentally preferable alternatives, even at a high price.Specially, the absence of a nationally accredited eco-labeling scheme could trigger a tendency of using self-claimed eco- labels as a marketing trick to lure the environmentally conscious consumers to the greenwashed products. Therefore, in order to protect the consumers who are inclined to make their choices more on ecological grounds than on price signals, introducing a well-regulated eco-labeling scheme is of utmost importance. This qualitative research is basically aimed at understanding the concept of eco- labeling and its positive outcomes. Moreover, it highlights the dearth of a legal framework on eco-labeling in Sri Lanka and the significance of introducing a nationally accredited eco- labeling scheme which operates there under. Further, based on a comparative study on Germany, India, European Union and Singapore which have respectively brought up nationally/regionally accredited eco-labels such as Blue Angel, Eco-mark, and EU-Flower, suggestions for a legal framework are brought up in order to indicate reliable information on the environmental impact of a product to the consumer. Thus, the propensity towards greenwashing can be ruled out of Sri Lanka and foster its sustainable development.
A study of startup motives and entrepreneurship tendency among small business operators
(University of Peradeniya, 2019-09-12) Kahathuduwa, K.K.P.N.; Kodithuwakku, K.A.S.S.; Jayaweera, V.W.
A person’s propensity to engage in entrepreneurship has a relationship with his/her level of entrepreneurial tendency, and a person’s motivation to start-up business may defer from opportunity to necessity. This research primarily aims to assess start-up motives and entrepreneurial tendencies (ET) of small business operators in rural Sri Lanka. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire from a sample of 100 respondents. The motivation type of the business operator was decided using a list of structured questions and ET was calculated using the General Enterprising Tendency Test (GET) (Caird, 1991). The hypotheses were tested using Pairwise comparisons and Kruskal Wallis Test. Findings revealed that men were more opportunity driven whereas women were more necessity driven. However, both men and women were found to be motivated to fulfill personal needs. Furthermore, younger people are more opportunity driven compared to older people, and the respondents with a high level of formal education are more necessity driven. People owning older businesses are more opportunity-driven, also with higher ET scores whereas older people were more necessity driven and showed a lower level of ET scores. All in all, men demonstrated higher ET scores compared to women. Findings also revealed that the higher the level of formal education, the lower the ET scores. Even though some researchers argue that the personality traits (i.e. the construct of ET) of a given person are constant over the time, the findings of this research reveal that there are significant differences of the ET of groups of people belonging to different demographic and business characteristics. Furthermore, the ET also changed with the type of start-up motives, and vice versa. However, the findings also revealed that the influence of the type of startup motivation on ET is more significant than the influence of ET on the type of startup motives.
Adoption of management accounting practices in health care companies listed in the Colombo Stock Exchange and factors influencing adoption
(University of Peradeniya, 2016-11-05) Williams, D.C.; Jayakumar, V.
Health care sector is a key player of a country’s economy, and there has been concerns regarding the efficiency of the public health care sector throughout the world. Therefore the involvement of the private sector in the development of the health care sector becomes important. The adoption of Management Accounting (MA) practices have the main benefits as cost saving, reaching new segments of the population, efficiency, enhancement of reputation and better customer service and satisfaction. According to Fonseka et.al (2005), the adoption of MA in Sri Lanka is low. For that study 47 companies listed in the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) from 6 industry sectors have been analyzed, but companies working in the health care sector have not been included in the sample. Further the factors influencing the adoption have been analyzed in general. Therefore this research attempts to use a structured framework to analyze the factors influencing the adoption of MA Practices using the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). The sample for this study is the Health care sector companies listed in the CSE. The whole population was selected and this includes six companies. Data was collected through structured questionnaires with 5 point likert scale and interviews. To measure the level of adoption, 20 MA Practices were selected and to measure the factors influencing the adoption, TAM & TPB have been used. This study follows a quantitative approach and the data was analyzed using descriptive analysis techniques. It was found out that the adoption of certain MA practices is low in health care companies listed in the CSE. i.e. Target Costing, Management by Exception, Process reengineering, Balanced Scorecard, Activity Based Costing, Responsibility Accounting, Total Quality Management, Kaizen costing, Differential Costing, Just In Time and Theory of Constraints. The reasons for the low adoption have been identified as the less perceived ease of use of MA Practices and less knowledge of ICT knowledge among the employees. In addition to that, MA Practices such as Cash-flow Statement, Budgetary Control, Variance Analysis, Variable Costing, Ratio Analysis, Standard Costing, CVP- Analysis, Absorption Costing and Segment Reporting have a high level of adoption. The reasons for the high adoption have been identified as Perceived Usefulness of MA Practices, Attitudes of the companies towards the MA practices, External pressure and Security of the MA practices. This research would help the companies to understand their awareness of MA practices and their benefits while identifying the reasons that influence the adoption of MA practices. It can contribute to the whole economy by enhancing the efficiency of the health care sector.
Agro tourism for rural development: creating a business model through an exploratory case study
(University of Peradeniya, 2019-09-12) Niroshana, S.; Eranda, N.
Tourism is increasingly diversified to be more competitive. Agro tourism is also such a diversified initiative aiming at the fulfillment of sustainable development goals by focusing on rural areas of a country. Recently, agro tourism has drawn attention in the international literature and which has not been researched extensively in Sri Lanka. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to identify the stance of agro tourism and to discuss its role in rural development. Further, this paper ends with a business model to enhance agro tourism by incorporating salient stakeholders. This study was conducted using single case study method based on interpretivism philosophy. Accordingly, Heeloya tourism village in Central Province was selected as the case study and the primary data was collected using participant observations and in-depth semi structured interviews. The key informants of this study were administrators, farmers, community and tourists in the village. Further, a pilot study was conducted with officials at the Agricultural Department to get initial insights. Data analysis was initiated using transcription and summary development which led the researchers to adopt the thematic analysis and cross-tab analysis. According to findings, agro tourism village has a diversified set of initiatives to attract the tourists based on its unique rural environment. However, agro tourism concept is still at infancy stage with several challenges including negative attitudes of community, lack of infrastructure facilities and entrepreneurial skills. Rural development is also evidenced through the means of enhancing income of rural farmers and supported community, jobs creation, and enhancing the competencies of the community. However, researchers need contend that it is important to identify the problems in the village and those should be properly addressed by collaborating with relevant stakeholders. This idea is incorporated in the business model presented at the end to effectively achieve rural development through agro tourism.
An analysis of livelihood and economic challenges of fireworks manufacturing community in Sri Lanka
(University of Peradeniya, 2019-09-12) Galapitage, D. G. C. M.; Prasada, D. V. P.
Manufacturing fireworks is essentially a low-tech, high labour-intensive industry in Sri Lanka. A large number of families in and around Kimbulapitiya in Katana divisional secretariat, Sri Lanka are engaged in fireworks manufacturing and many more depend on the industry indirectly. The fire crackers are made by females and children in those areas as self-employment apart from larger factories. The sustainable livelihoods framework, a tool developed to understand of livelihoods of people, to assess the continuity of working conditions in the fireworks industry was used. The method aims to identify various factors affecting livelihoods in terms of livelihood assets and vulnerability context. The transforming structures and processes are also taken into consideration. The 102 respondents from the families of fireworks manufacturing were interviewed. Factors affecting the likelihood of respondents remaining in the industry within next 5 years was studied and found that increasing market demand, job satisfaction and age reduce the likelihood of exit (P=0.05). Second, the factors affecting reported breathing difficulties and was examined and found that normal firecrackers, radiant wheels, and noisy crackers are associated with statistically significant levels of breathing difficulty (p =0.05) while the link is not significant for sparklers and skyrockets. Overall, results highlight the weak structures and processes in this risky livelihood. Addressing these factors is necessary to ensure sustainability of the cottage industry and to ensure decent work conditions for workers.
Analysis of genetic structure of non-descript local goat populations in Sri Lanka
(University of Peradeniya, 2016-11-05) Ariyarathne, H.B.P.C.; Ariyaratne, H.B.S.; Lokugalappatti, L.G.S.
The knowledge on genetic structure of organisms is important not only to understand the evolutionary processes it has undergone but also to realize the role of environment on this process. Population genetics and phylogenetic studies are important to provide opinions on effective conservation and reintroduction plans especially when the target population is under threat of extinction. Sri Lankan non-descript local goats represent a threatened population due to indiscriminate slaughter and cross breeding practices. Population genetic structure of these animals is unknown other than the fact that they were introduced by Arabian sailors. Therefore, this study was devoted to evaluate genetic structure of local goats aiming to provide information for conservation programs. The experiment was initiated with collection of blood samples from 61 goats in northern, northwestern, eastern and southern provinces of the country and DNA extraction from blood samples, polymerase chain reaction for exon 2-3 of alpha lactalbumin (LALBA) gene and DNA sequencing were performed subsequently. Phylogenetic trees were constructed utilizing Maximum Likelihood (ML) and Bayesian Inference (BI) methods in GARLI (v.96) and MrBayes (3.2.5.) software respectively. Parsimony networks were constructed in TCS (v1.2.1.). Within and among population genetic variabilities were calculated using AMOVA while pairwise mismatch distribution and selective neutrality were estimated in Arlequin 3.5. Both ML and BI produced the same tree topology with little genetic structure and lower bootstrap branch support while the parsimony network consists of four main clusters which were not representing the sampling locality suggesting genetically likenesses. The idea is strongly supported by AMOVA test where within population variability is greater (98.74%) than among population (1.26%) (Fst=0.012, d.f=98, P=0.18) which may be attributed to cross breeding and transportation of animals. However, observed heterozygosity is still lower than the expected value ensuing, significantly negative results in neutrality tests; Fu’s Fs (p<0/005) and Tajima’s D (p<0.5). This can be resulted from a resent population expansion followed by a bottleneck event. Uni-model distribution of the mismatch profile also supports the idea of expansion of population size. Results of this study reveal that local goat population is heterogeneous and contemporary population structure is highly influenced by anthropogenic activities. Therefore, immediate actions are recommended to conserve their genetic resources.
Analysis of physicochemical properties of Olu (Nymphaea pubescens Willd.) seeds and production of Olu seed-incorporated snack bars
(University of Peradeniya, 2016-11-05) Rajapaksha, U.; Arampath, P.C.
This study was conducted to determine the physicochemical properties of olu (Nymphaea pubescens Willd.) seeds and to develop an olu seed snack bar incorporating sesame seeds and peanuts. Olu seeds, sesame seeds, peanuts and other ingredients were used for formulating this snack bar. The best of four formulations of olu snack bars was selected using sensory evaluation (hedonic test). Olu snack bars developed using the selected formula was subjected to a shelf-life study. Olu seeds had an arithmetic mean diameter of 0.15±0.01 cm, geometric mean diameter of 0.18±0.02 cm, a sphericity of 0.61±0.01, a roundness ratio of 0.47±0.06, and a roundness of 0.52±0.01. Proximate analysis of olu seeds showed a composition comprising (dry basis) 81.24±0.16% carbohydrate, 2.5±0.08% crude protein, 0.65±0.03% crude fat, 0.65±0.03% crude fibre and 0.67±0.32% ash. The moisture content of olu seeds were 14.31±0.22%. Solubility of olu seed flour at 30oC and 100oC were 1.24±0.01 and 26.44±0.59 %, respectively. The pH value, water holding capacity and water absorption index of olu seed flour were 6.4±0.01, 1.39±0.02 and 2.05±0.08 g/g, respectively. Ni, Ca, Fe, Cu, and Zn contents were 0.07±0.005, 18.89±1.45, 1.06±0.04, 0.069±0.01, and 0.069±0.01 mg/100g, respectively. Cd and Pb were not present at detectable levels in olu seeds. The four formulations of snack bars significantly differed (P<0.05) from each other in odour, texture, and overall acceptability but not in colour and sweetness. Based on these results, the formulation comprising 60% olu seeds, 5% sesame seeds and 15% peanuts was selected. Proximate composition (dry basis) of the olu snack bar was 59.89±0.11%, carbohydrate, 13.48±0.33% protein, 12.53±0.69% fat, 2.59±0.09% ash while the moisture content was11.33±0.2%. Levels of Ca, Fe, Cu, Zn and Mg were 71.08±2.28, 1.611±0.255, 0.158±0.076, 0.788±0.118, and 27.05±0.57 mg/100g, respectively. The caloric value of the snack bar was 17.5±0.12 kJ/g. Total plate counts, yeast and mould counts and coliform counts were less than the maximum acceptable limit and moisture content not significantly (P>0.05) different after one month of storage. Thus, there is a high potential to produce nutritionally rich olu snack bars with sesame seeds and peanuts which have acceptable sensory properties and shelf-life.
Anatomical variations in the radial artery observed in its origin and course: a cadaveric study
(University of Peradeniya, 2016-11-05) Nanayakkara, T.D.; Alahakoon, A.M.B.D.; Wickramarathna, A.A.D.; Nasim, F.N.; Herath, P.P.B.; Ekanayaka, E.M.K.G.H.B.K.; Rajamanthri, P.S.; Dissanayake, J.K.
The radial artery is one of the main two branches of the brachial artery. It usually originates at the level of the head of the radius in the cubital fossa and courses along the forearm deep to the flexor muscles; then crosses the anatomical snuff box where it contributes to the formation of deep palmer arch and sometimes to the superficial palmer arch. Anatomical variations are observed in its origin, course, branching pattern, diameter and mode of termination. The radial artery has been described as a route of transcatheter coronary interventions and a site of arterial blood sampling. Therefore, understanding the occurrence and types of variations related to the anatomy of the radial artery would reduce failure rates of the above procedures and complications associated with them. During routine dissection, 28 limbs of 14 cadavers were examined for the origin course and branching pattern. Among the 14 cadavers, high origin of the radial artery was observed in two cadavers. One (J10) had a unilateral (left upper limb) variation with an origin on the arm 18cm above the medial epicondyle, whereas, the other cadaver (J4) had a bilateral variation with the origin 17 cm above the medial epicondyle. J10 and J4 radial arteries followed a superficial and deep course respectively. An aberrant artery originating from the second part of the axillary artery, which runs a superficial course, was observed in the left upper limb of one cadaver (J12). In addition to this, the aberrant artery, the normal radial and ulnar arteries were identified at their origin at the level of head of the radius. Out of 28 upper limbs dissected four radial arteries (14.2%) exhibit variations in origin and course or an aberrant artery. Anatomical variations of the radial artery are relatively common. It has clinically significant implications as the artery is considered one of the best routes for transarterial interventions. There is emerging evidence that imaging the artery for possible variations prior to the procedure can reduce the failure rates.
Antibacterial activity of selected seaweed extracts against some selected infectious pathogens
(University of Peradeniya, 2019-09-12) Maria Nimalini, M.; Vasantharuba, S.; Kapilan, R.
The antibacterial efficacy of methanolic extracts of marine algae, Caulerpa racemosa (Chlorophyta), Sargassum polycystum and Turbinaria ornata (Phaeophyta) against some selected gram-positive and gram-negative human pathogenic bacteria was studied. Dried and powdered sample (3g) of the seaweeds collected at the Nachchikuda and Keerimalai coastal area in the Northern region of Sri Lanka was diluted with 60 ml 70% methanol. This mixture was homogenized at different duration and then filtered by using whatsman No 1 filter paper to obtain clear extract. This extract was used to test the antibacterial activity against appropriately diluted Gram-positive bacterial species Enterococcus faecalis (ATCC 29212) & Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 29213) and Gram-negative bacterial species Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922) & Pseudomonas aeroginosa (ATCC 27853) using agar well diffusion method in triplicates. Results showed that significant amount of inhibition zone was obtained against all the tested bacterial species which was comparable with positive control streptomycin and negative control 70% methanol. Turbinaria ornata have significantly highest antibacterial activity against all test organisms followed by Caulerpa racemosa and Sargassum polycystum. The selected seaweeds showed their highest and lowest inhibition zone against Staphylococcus aureus (19.06±1.15mm) and Enterococcus faecalis (12.32±0.76mm).
Antioxidant activity and cyanide content of leaves of three different cassava varieties (Manihot esculenta Crantz)
(University of Peradeniya, 2016-11-05) Gunathilaka, D.M.; Perera, M.C.N.; Weihena, S.J.; Perera, H.K.I.; Wanigasekera, W.M.A.P.
Cassava leaves are commonly used as a vegetable among rural communities in Sri Lanka. They are nutritional as they contain different proteins, amino acids and vitamins as well as fibres. The aim of this study was to determine the antioxidant capacities and cyanide contents of three different varieties of cassava (MU-51, CARI 555 and KIRIKAWADI). Fresh cassava leaves were collected from the Department of Horticulture, Gannoruwa. Methanol extracts of air dried leaves were used for determination of antioxidant capacity using the 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazil (DPPH) assay. Ascorbic acid was used as the standard. The radical scavenging capacity of DPPH was expressed as the concentration of the sample which showed 50% radical scavenging capacity (IC₅₀). Fresh leaves were used to determine the cyanide content. Leaves were distilled in 0.5% phosphoric acid and the distillate was titrated against silver nitrate. For DPPH, the IC₅₀ values of methanol extracts of leaves of MU-51, KIRIKAWADI and CARI 555 were 40 ± 2.23, 47 ± 2.05 and 50 ±1 .78 mg/l, respectively. Ascorbic acid gave an IC₅₀ value of 5.4 ±1.28 mg/l. Therefore, the antioxidant capacities of methanol extracts of these three cassava varieties were about10-fold lower than that of ascorbic acid. The cyanide contents of the three varieties of cassava were approximately similar with KIRIKAWADI, CARI 555 and MU-51 having cyanide concentrations of 48.6 ± 5.4, 46.76 ± 6.23 and 44.93 ± 7.23 mg/Kg, respectively. The acute lethal dose of hydrogen cyanide for humans is reported to be 0.5 - 3.5 mg/Kg body weight. Therefore, a large variation in the lethal dose, ranging from 30 - 210 mg of HCN for a 60 Kg adult, has been reported. According to this study, approximately 45 mg of cyanide is present in 1 Kg of fresh cassava which will not be at toxic levels for humans.
Antioxidant properties of selected traditional rice varieties in Sri Lanka
(University of Peradeniya, 2016-11) Kariyawasam, T.I.; Godakumbura, P.I.; Prashantha, M.A.B.; Premakumara, G.A.S.; Abeysekera, W.K.S.M.
Rice is the major cereal crop as well as the main staple food in Sri Lanka and other regions of Asia. Previous studies on some of the traditional rice varieties of Sri Lanka (STRV) show higher nutritional value and bioactivity when compared with improved rice varieties cultivated in Sri Lanka. This study evaluates the antioxidant properties of extracts of selected STRV. Methanolic extracts of four STRV (Kalu Heenati, Pokkali, Kahawanu and Sudu Murunga) were used for in vitro antioxidant assays. Antioxidant properties of STRV were measured using total polyphenolic content (TPC), 1, 1- diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging, and 2-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS) radical scavenging assays. Methanolic extracts of selected rice varieties showed potent antioxidant activity. Mean TPC of STRV were in the range of 1.66 ± 0.08 – 7.66 ± 0.17 mg gallic acid equivalents/g. Mean DPPH and ABTS antioxidant properties were in the ranges of 0.56 ± 0.03 – 2.58 ± 0.15 and 3.83 ± 1.08 – 13.14 ± 0.90 mmol Trolox equivalents/ 100g flour, respectively. The order of mean TPC in the rice varieties was Pokkali > Kalu Heenati > Kahawanu > Sudu Murunga. Results show a difference among rice varieties in scavenging activity for DPPH and ABTS radicals. The order of scavenging activity for DPPH radicals was Kalu Heenati > Pokkali > Kahawanu > Sudu Murunga while for ABTS radicals, the order was Pokkali > Kalu Heenati > Kahawanu > Sudu Murunga. Accordingly the antioxidant power of the extracts was in the order of Pokkali > Kalu Heenati > Kahawanu > Sudu Murunga. Rice varieties having red pericarps displayed higher antioxidant activities when compared to rice varieties having white pericarps. The present study highlights the importance of STRV as potential sources of antioxidant compounds, especially the varieties of Pokkali and Kalu Heenati. These traditional rice varieties may be able to limit the risk of various chronic diseases associated with oxidative stress and this data will be useful to nutritionists for formulating therapeutic diets rich in antioxidants.
Assessment of landscape aesthetics of southern expressway (E01 road), Sri Lanka
(University of Peradeniya, 2016-11-05) Marasinghe, M.D.U.; Gunawardena, A.R.; Beneragama. C.K.
The Southern Expressway is the first experience in Sri Lanka of an E01 class road. It has been constructed mainly considering engineering and traffic related requirements without paying much attention to the landscape-related issues. In addition, there are several proposed expressways to the country. Although the concept of expressways is new to Sri Lanka, many studies have already been carried out in developed countries on the built environment with a sound scientific background. However, there are no particular guidelines/manuals developed for landscape and aesthetics design for the roadside of the Southern Expressway in Sri Lanka. Hence, this research explores the necessity of the landscape aesthetics assessment and a better way to construct expressways while achieving optimum use of land and improvement of scenic quality. Geographic information system and remote sensing were used to evaluate existing landscape land cover/use types and to identify environmental sensitive areas within 01 km buffer zone area along the expressway. The lush appearance of the buffer zone was evaluated by calculating the NDVI value, using “Landsat 8 imageries” and ERDAS imagine 2010 software. Initially, an attitude test was conducted to identify attitudes towards the existing landscape scenery and different landscape elements and to identify possible association between type of travel and attitudes. A visual preference survey was carried out based on the results of the attitude test. For that, nine photographs were selected after the field observation and models were developed using Real time Landscaping Architect® software, based on pre- determined different concepts. Results revealed that the Southern Expressway is surrounded by different land cover/use types, environmental sensitive areas, archaeological reserves and ancient protected monuments, landslide prone areas, hydrological areas, forest and wild life reserves. The greenness varies throughout the buffer zone. The results of the survey carried out to test the preferences and attitudes show that there is not much attention/awareness among the users of the Expressway on scenic quality of the Southern Expressway and on different landscape elements. Significant associations (p<0.05) were only shown between the type of travel and perception about evergreen plants. Results of the visual preference survey suggest the need of area-specific landscape designs and the importance of human perception-based methods in designing landscapes.
Association between perceived stress and the academic performance among undergraduate female students in the University of Peradeniya
(University of Peradeniya, 2019-09-12) Ekanayake, E. H. M. R. K.; Mudiyanse, R. M.
University students are particularly subjected to stressors. Student can be stressed due to different stressors such as academic, financial and health related issues and female students suffer considerably higher level of stress than male students. Stress is the bodies’ reaction both neurologically and physiologically to adapt to the new condition. Stress can either negatively or positively influence the academic achievement. This study explores the association between perceived stress measured by Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) with current Grade Point Average (GPA), up to previous semester. Scores ranging from 0-13, 14-26 and 27-40 would be considered as low, moderate and high perceived stress. This cross-sectional study conducted among 450 third year undergraduate female students of the University of Peradeniya. Stress level and its correlation with current GPA of the students were analyzed using Pearsons’ correlation analysis. The mean age of the respondents was 23.30(SD ± 0.89). The mean perceived stress score and the GPA were 18.92(SD ± 5.22) and 3.16 (SD± 0.33) respectively. The findings of the study showed that overall, the undergraduate students experienced moderate levels of stress (76.8%). The correlation between perceived stress and the GPA was statistically negative and not significant (r= -0.006, P>0.05). Better stress levels in the Peradeniya compared to local and foreign universities, probably indicating the psychosocial relief provided by this garden university. Although the recent finding shows that undergraduate students were in moderate levels of stress, related research is encouraged to be conducted. This is important for the discovery of the current state of psychological well-being among undergraduate students.
Association between taste sensation and dental caries experience among dental students
(University of Peradeniya, 2016-11-05) Gunawardane, S.; Ariyasinghe, S.; Rajapakse, P.S.; Aluwihare, S.; Perera, E.
High sugar intake is related to high caries experience. High sugar intake is found to be prevalent among individuals who have a preference for sweet substances. Sensitivity to taste has been implicated in the preference for or rejection of some foods. It has been shown that TAS2R38 gene strongly mediate bitter and sweet taste sensations as well as the sensitivity to compounds like 6-n-propylthiouracil (PROP) which is a known bitter substance. The objective of this study was to determine the association between coronal dental caries (Decayed Missing and Filling teeth) and the level of taste sensation as determined by 6- n-propylthiouracil among dental students. Coronal caries and restorations in permanent dentition were assessed in 78 healthy first year dental students aged 20-25 years. A filter paper containing PROP was used to determine the subjects’ inherent ability to perceive bitter and sweet taste sensations. Subjects were categorized in to three groups; super tasters (>60), medium tasters (12-60) and non- tasters (<12) based on the modified green scale which depends on the sensitivity to PROP. The data were analyzed using Shapiro-wilk and Kruskal- wallis tests. The mean DMFT of non-tasters, medium tasters and super tasters were 1.64±2.04, 2.38±3.24 and 1.96±2.31 respectively. The differences between the three groups were not statistically significant (P= 0.7). The findings of the present study are in agreement with some previously reported studies. However the presence of evidence to the contrary warrants further investigation using larger populations.
Association of the leptin receptor Q223R (Rs1137101) polymorphism with obesity in a sample population from Kandy
(University of Peradeniya, 2019-09-12) Illangasekera, Y. A.; Kumarasiri, P. V. R.; Fernando, D. J.; Dalton, C. F.
A very limited amount of data is available on the role of genetic factors in the development of obesity in Sri Lankans. The Q223R (rs1137101) single nucleotide polymorphism of the leptin receptor (LEPR) gene has been associated with obesity measures in various ethnicities globally. We investigated the association of the Q223R polymorphism with obesity measures and biochemical parameters in sample of adult subjects from the Kandy district of Sri Lanka. 535 subjects (age 18-70 years) from the general population were recruited through multi-stage random sampling. Body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC) and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) was obtained by standard methods. DNA extracted from whole blood was genotyped using real-time PCR and allelic discrimination. Fasting blood sugar (FBS) levels and lipid profile parameters were quantified. The LEPR variant ‘G’ allele frequency was 0.54. The LEPR polymorphism was associated with BMI (p=0.04) and WC (p=0.02) measures in obese (BMI ≥ 25 kgm⁻²) subjects with the variant allele conferring a greater risk of obesity. Residency in urban areas attenuated the protective effect of the non-risk genotype (AA) in the development of obesity. No significant associations were observed with FBS or lipid profile measures.The LEPR Q223R polymorphism is associated with BMI and WC and the effect of the variant is more pronounced in obese subjects. Area of residence (urban/rural) moderates the association between LEPR Q223R polymorphism and obesity in Sri Lankans.
Attitude of public health midwives towards prevention of mother to child transmission of HIV in Kandy Regional Director of health services area
(University of Peradeniya, 2019-09-12) Wijesuriya, W. M. N. K. L.; Jayasekara, A. A. I. N.; Rathnayake, B. S. A. K.; Rathnayake, S. J.
Transmission of HIV from mother to child (MTCT) is a major public health and social concern that the world must face today. MTCT can occur during pregnancy, delivery and through breast milk (AIDS.gov, 2015). Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission of HIV/AIDS (PMTCT) through integrated Maternal and Child Health service is an identified component of the reproductive health (WHO PMTCT guidelines, 2015).As Public Health Midwives (PHMM) are the community level key service providers in reproductive health services in Sri Lanka, well-trained PHMM with positive attitudes are prerequisites to implement the national strategy of HIV prevention (Beneragama, 1991). The objective of this study was to describe the attitude of public health midwives towards the PMTCT of HIV in Kandy Regional Director of Health Services (RDHS) area. A cross sectional descriptive study was carried out to assess the attitudes of PHMs towards PMTCT of HIV in Kandy RDHS area. A self – administered, semi structured and pre tested questionnaire was used to collect data. Information was obtained on demographic factors and attitudes of PHMM towards PMTCT of HIV. There were 6 questions to assess the attitude and cut off was taken as 3. The total PHM population of Kandy RDHS area (n= 423) was studied and the response rate was 79.2% (n=335). About 90% of PHMs were married and mean age was 41.8 years (SD=3years). 64.2% of midwives had qualification of G. C.E. (A/ L). Most of the PHMs (55.8%) had service experience of more than 20 years. 76.1% of PHMM had positive attitudes towards PMTCT service while 41.3% thought that PMTCT program will increase their work load.74.9% of PHMs were willing to assist in delivery of HIV positive mothers. There were no significant associations between socio-demographic factors and attitudes of PHMM toward PMTCT of HIV. Although overall attitudes of the PHMM towards PMTCT was good in Kandy RDHS area continuous professional development and further attitude development is needed for better outcomes.
Attitudes towards complementary and alternative medicine among second year medical, dental nursing and physiotherapy students at the University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
(University of Peradeniya, 2016-11-05) Gunaratne, B.R.R.N.; Alles, C.N.R.A.; Soysa, N.S.
Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) includes a broad range of therapies that fall outside conventional western medicine. With the introduction of western medicine, the usage of CAM has markedly reduced among Sri Lankans. The attitudes of students belonging to the health care professions have a strong impact on the way they ultimately practice medicine. The aim of this study was to assess the attitudes of 2nd year medical, dental, nursing and physiotherapy students of the University of Peradeniya towards CAM. A self-administered questionnaire consisting of 6 sections; general attitudes, barriers, effectiveness, personal use, sources of information, and importance of evidence to consider CAM was distributed among 317 2nd year medical, dental, nursing and physiotherapy students of the University of Peradeniya at the end of a lecture/meeting. Participation in the survey was voluntary and anonymous. The 15 attitude questions in section one used a 5-point Likert rating scale (5- strongly agree and 1- strongly disagree). Data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences, version 20. The response rate was 91.74%. The composition of the group was as follows: 2nd year dental (18%), medical (61%), physiotherapy (11%) and nursing (10%) students. In this study 64.2 % were females. The majority of nursing students (83.3%) agreed that CAM is useful as a supplementary therapy whereas only 77.8% of dental, 54.6% of medical and 81.9% of physiotherapy students agreed to this. 36.4% of physiotherapy students perceived CAM as a threat to public health. More than 60% of nursing students agreed that CAM should be discouraged unless it is scientifically proven. With respect to the effectiveness of CAM modalities, majority of students agreed that nutritional supplements and meditation were more effective than other modalities such as ayurveda, herbal medicine, and acupuncture. A majority of students (86.9%) used mass media as a source to gather information on CAM. 95.0% of students suggested that a proven mechanism is important for recommendation or usage of CAM therapies. Taken together our study indicates that the students have a neutral attitude towards CAM highlighting the importance of education on CAM for students of health care professions.
Auto resonant wireless power transmission system
(University of Peradeniya, 2016-11-05) Kumara, S.H.P.A.; Batewela, B.V.S.I.; Dharmasena, K.M.D.
In the 19th century, Nikola Tesla managed to transfer energy without wires over an air gap between two axially aligned coils using magnetic fields. This achievement marks the birth of the research and development of wireless energy transfer systems, a technology which has not seen a considerable growth during the last few decades though the researchers had their big eye on this topic. In this project the technique of efficient WPT over short distance, using resonance inductive coupling has been researched. It will be widely useful in EV charging, aerospace and structural health monitoring. Further, this research is conducted to eliminate the drawbacks of existing wireless technology while introducing the auto resonance WPT as a solution. As the resonance conditions of the two coupled system can vary with the geometries of transmitters, environmental conditions and the distance between transmitter and the receiver. Auto resonance is a better solution for these deviations in real world applications. Initially, the study on wireless energy transfer was conducted using resonance inductive coupling. The main steps carried out were implementing the resonance inductive coupling circuit, analyzing the circuit using different coil geometries, identifying the issues related to efficiency and frequency of WPT system and the solution to overcome the challenges in a practical environment. The planar spiral and helix coil geometries were tested with the capacitor coupled resonance inductive coupling circuit and the circuits were analyzed with the power transmitting and receiving capabilities for different loads with the air gap between the transmitter and the receiver. In the practical implementations, remedies were taken to minimize the variations between the theoretical and practical system the issues related to transmitting power, frequency range and efficiency. The efficiency of the helix coil is higher than the planar spiral coil along the distance. In the auto resonance system, the three resonant point indication methods are communication based indication, impedance based indication and variable capacitor based indication. The communication based indication was implemented by developing an algorithm to recognize the peak received power in kHz range (resolution up to two decimal points) and resonance frequency was found. This resonant frequency is chosen to transfer power in the available conditions. The communication is done through a different link until the resonant point of the system is verified. The theory based on impedance based method is, at the resonance point impedance of any system becomes real. Hence, phase shift between voltage and current waveforms is zero. This condition is checked using a phase lock loop circuit. Controller circuit is also used in the design. When the above conditions are satisfied, power is transmitted at the resonance. In the third method, the variable capacitor based indication; a variable capacitor at the receiver is adjusted according to the coupling with the transmitter. This method can be used to have multi receivers with a single transmitter. The capacitor changes it’s capacitance to match with the resonance frequency. This method will be significant in most industrial applications.

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