PURSE 2011

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Agricultural risk index for chronic kidney disease of unknown origin
(University of Peradeniya, 2011-11-24) Jayasekara, J. M. K. B.; Dissanayake, D. M.; Gunaratna, M. D. N.; Thilakarathna, S.; Sivakanesan, R.
Chronic Kidney Disease due to unknown aetiology (CKD-U) is one of the growing health problems in Sri Lanka. About eight thousand diagnosed CKD-U patients are enduring treatment, largely in the North Central Region (NCR) 90% of the patients are farmers. The study is designed to estimate an agricultural risk index for an individual who lives in high risk areas of the country. The study is a case control study and 315 CKD-U patients and 321 normal healthy individuals were randomly selected from NCR. The age, sex and agriculture related risk factors were collected from both patients and controls. Multiple linear logistic models were used to calculate the risk index. The gender of the individual (male, female), age category «45, 45-60, 60>years), extent of land cultivated (>1, <1 hectares), exchange of labour (hiring labour, high or low), usage of agrochemicals (yes or no) protective measures against agrochemicals (law or high) were considered for the calculation of the index using the following formuia: In (π/1-π) = β0+ β1x age + β2X gender + β2 x (cultivated area x exchange of labour) + β4 x (usage of agrochemicals x protective measures against agrochemicals) (π = probability of the disease occurrence, βo=regression constant, βi = Regression coefficient of the i th variable). According to the multiple linear regression logistic models, the maximum and minimum risks were calculated as 1.0 and 0.0 respectively. The male individual > 60 years of age, low exchange of labour and poor protective measures against agrochemicals had the highest risk of getting CKD-U irrespective of the cultivated land extent (p =0.87). Females < 45 years of age with high labour exchange and using good protective measures had the lowest risk (p= 0.14) irrespective of the cultivated land area. The calculated risk index will be useful to identify individuals at risk of developing CKD-U and to implement preventive strategies for the disease in the high-prevalence area. The individuals > 60 years of age with poor agricultural practices had the maximum possibility of getting CKD-U probably due to long term exposure to the aetiological agents and risk factors in this area.
Algorithms for automated diagnosis of heart diseases using an electronic stethoscope
(University of Peradeniya, 2011-11-24) Wijesinghe, W. A. P. A.; Wijayakulasooriya, J.; Walgama, K. S.
Phonocardiography or heart sound signals acquired through an electronic stethoscope can be processed and analysed for the automatic diagnosis of heart related diseases, and thus used to provide a decision support system to assist medical professionals. Our aim is to develop an intelligent stethoscope, which is low cost and can be used in the same convenience of the normal stethoscope. This would provide an advanced device even for community level health care systems. At the core of this intelligent stethoscope is a set of algorithms. For the last two decades, a lot of work has been done to develop the automated electronic stethoscope. In addition to the investigation of heart sound signals using digital signal processing techniques, the available research has focused on segmentation of heart sound signals with or without using electrocardiography (ECG), and classification to diagnose heart diseases using the features extracted from the heart signals. In this research, the focus is to detect heart abnormalities without ECG, as using it would make the device expensive and inconvenient, and to extract as much features as possible through signal processing and other computational methods for classification. The proposed procedure basically consists of segmentation of the heart signal to identify the first and second heart sounds, the systolic and diastolic phases, and to identify heart murmurs (due to heart valve problems), according to its phase, the temporal position and distribution (as early, late and pan). In addition, heart rate variation is also estimated to diagnose heart rate related diseases. The segmentation algorithm is based on the Short Term Fourier Transform (STFT) or the spectrogram of the heart signal. Using the observations reported in the literature, that murmurs are of higher frequencies than heart sounds, the time-frequency spectrum is divided into two bands in the frequency domain, and the variation of energy in each of the bands with time is computed to obtain two functions: one to carry out segmentation and diastolic/ systolic phase identification; and the other to identify the temporal position and distribution of the murmurs within a phase. The algorithm was initially tested for a set of signals obtained from health-care training web sites, and has shown promising results for murmur detection. However, murmurs that overlap with the first and second heart sounds in the frequency domain posed a challenge for the proposed algorithm. As the algorithm is capable of computing the period of each heart cycle, heart rate variation can be estimated and diseases related to heart rate can also be diagnosed.
Allelopathic effect of prosopis juliflora (mesquite) on seed germination of native coastal dry forest species
(University of Peradeniya, 2011-11-24) Jayasinghe, A.G.C.S.; Perera, G. A.D.
Prosopis juliflora (Mesquite) is an evergreen tree species which had been introduced to Hambanthota district as a shade tree in the early 1950s. This species has invaded coastal dry forests of southern Sri Lanka and has become a threat to natural vegetation in these forests. Allelopathic compounds are found to be present in leaves, roots. pods and flowers of this species. This study aims to examine the impacts of allelopathic compounds present in P. juliflora on germination of seeds of six native dry forest species; Bauhinia racemosa, Cassia occidentalis, Drypetes sepiaria, Flueggea leucopyrus, Salvadora persica and Ziziphus mauritiana. Seeds of these species were kept in a concentration series of an aqueous root extract of P. juliflora (0%. 2%, 5% and 10%) for 48 hours and on soil collected from a natural forest and at a P. juliflora stand in Bundala National Park under in vitro conditions. Further investigations were done by adding activated charcoal to the soil collected from the P. juliflora stand. While the seed germination of B. racemose. C. occidentalis, D. sepia ria was significantly reduced (P<0.05) in the presence of the root extract of P. juliflora. germination was delayed only in C. occidentalis. The results imply that allelopathic compounds are present in the root extract of P. juliflora which affect seed germination of some native plant species. Percentage seed germination was lower on the soil collected from the P. juliflora stand than that on natural forest soil. however. addition of activated charcoal to the P. juliflora stand soil enhanced germination. These results imply that allelopathic compounds may accumulate in the soil. adversely affecting seed germination of some plant species. However. the responses to allelopathic compounds of P. juliflora may vary among native coastal dry forest plant species. Plant species that are very sensitive to allelopathic compounds are at a risk of being eliminated from the dry zone ecosystems where P. juliflora has invaded. Species that are less sensitive to these allelopathic compounds may be recommended to be grown as an attempt to restore P. juliflora invaded lands.
Analysis of blood parameters and RT-PCR results in Dengue suspected patients from Kandy and Padaviya
(University of Peradeniya, 2011-11-24) Ekanayake, D. B. G. M.; Perera, H. K. I.; Athauda, S. B. P.
Dengue Fever is currently considered the most important mosquito-borne viral infection in Sri Lanka with thousands of patients affected each year with a significant social, economic and political impact. Early diagnosis of dengue infection can reduce the numbers of cases of dengue haemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome. Primary diagnosis of dengue is usually based on clinical signs, symptoms and haematological testing. Single-step reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) offers a sensitive and specific diagnostic procedure for detection and serotyping of dengue virus. Objective of this study was to analyse the blood parameters and RT- PCR results in clinically suspected Dengue patients. Blood samples were obtained during the first 5 days of the febrile phase, from ninety eight (98) clinically suspected dengue patients who were admitted to Kandy (68) and Padaviya (30) hospitals. Following investigations were carried out at the Department of Biochemistry: RNA extracted from serum samples was subjected to single tube multiplex RT-PCR; haematological parameters included total white cell count (WBC), differential count, platelet count, haemoglobin concentration (Hb), pack cell volume (PCV), clinical chemistry parameters included aspartate transferase (AST) and alanine transferase (ALT) concentrations. Recommended quality control methods were used in al; procedures. Data were analysed using Student's t-test. Out of the 98 blood samples analysed, 42 (43 %) showed positive results with RT-PCR and all positive samples were of DEN-2 serotype (119 bp PCR product). Blood parameters, namely, WBC, platelet count, Hb, PCV, AST and ALT, showed significant differences (p< 0.05) between RT-PCR positive and negative samples. Among the parameters AL T level was the most significantly affected in relation to RT -PCR positivity More than 50 IU/ L of ALT level was observed in 90% of the RT-PCR positive patients. Similar increase of ALT was seen only in 3.6% of the RT-PCR negative patients. In conclusion, 43% of the samples tested were RT -PCR positive and all positive samples were of DEN-2 serotype. Positive correlation between elevated levels of ALT and RT -PCR positivity would be useful in identifying patients infected with dengue virus and to manage them accordingly.
Analysis of long-term climatic trends in selected locations representing different Agro-ecological regions of Sri Lanka
(University of Peradeniya, 2011-11-24) Karthika, S.; De Costa, W. A. J. M.
Significant variations in time series patterns of key climatic variables of a particular region over a prolonged time period provide evidence of climate change. The objective of this study was to demonstrate the long-term variation patterns of air temperature and rainfall and to show their magnitude of variation between different locations of Sri Lanka representing different agro-ecological regions. Fifteen locations (Anuradapura, Badulla, Batticaloa, Colombo, Diyatalawa, Galle, Hambantota, Jaffna, Kandy, Kurunegala, Mannar, Nuwara-Eliya, Puttalam, Ratnapura, Trincomalee) representing different agro-ecological regions of Sri Lanka were selected for this analysis. Annual mean temperature and annual total rainfall data from 1869 to 2009 were used. Different univariate non seasonal Auto-Regressive Integrated Moving Average {ARIMA (p, d, q)} time series analysis models were fitted to the data and predictions for the future were obtained. Different types of best-fitting models for the mean annual temperature were identified for different locations. These included: a first order moving average (MA 1) for Mannar, Colombo, Diyatalawa, Galle and Nuwara-Eliya; second order moving average (MA2) for Anuradapura and Kurunegala; and an autoregressive moving average with first order differentiated {ARIMA (1,1,1)} for Hambantota and Badulla. The predicted (2010 - 2020) mean annual temperature (Tam) of all Dry Zone locations was higher than their respective long term annuai means, with Tam at Anuradapura (DL 1b) expected to be higher by 0.95°C. For locations representing the Intermediate Zone, i.e., Badulla (IM1a) and Kurunegala (IL 1a). the predicted Tam was higher than the long term mean by 0.8°C. Among the Wet Zone locations, Galle (O.84°C), Nuwara-eliya (O.88°C) and Colombo (O.73°C) showed the highest increases (> 0.7°C) in predicted Tam in comparison to their respective long term means. The predicted Tamof Kandy (WM3b) and Ratnapura (WL 1a) were not significantly different from their respective long term means. Only three out of the 15 locations showed auto-correlation within their data series. ARIMA (0, 1, 1) model was the best-fitting model for Colombo and Nuwara-Eliya while ARIMA (2, 0, 1) was fitted for Mannar. An average increase of 6.2% in annual rainfall was forecasted for Colombo for the period2010 to 2020, while a reduction of 18.5% is predicted for Nuwara Eliya. Long-term variation in annual total rainfall in the other 12 locations showed random series and hence, simple linear regression was done. Interestingly, trends of annual rainfall in Batticaloa, Hambantota and Galle showed increasing trends while Badulla, Kandy, Diyatalawa, Kurunegala and Ratnapura showed decreasing trends. This analysis demonstrates significant vulnerability to long-term climate change in most areas of Sri Lanka with agricultural potential. Initiation of adaptive measures is most urgent in Annuradapura, Nuwara-eliya and Galle because of their greater increases in temperature and Significant decreases in rainfall. Adaptive measures need to be initiated in other areas as well in accordance with their respective magnitudes of climate change and vulnerability.
Analysis of the relationship between status of nodal metastasis, clinical stage and histological parameters of oral squamous cell Carcinoma
(University of Peradeniya, 2011-11-24) Siriwardena, B. S. M. S.; Rambukewela, L. K.; Tilakaratne, W.M.
More than 50% of patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity have lymph node metastases and histological confirmation of metastatic disease is considered the most important prognostic factor. Among the patients with a clinically negative neck, the incidence of occult metastases varies with the site, size and thickness of the primary tumour. The TNM (Tumour/ Node/ Metastasis) staging system allows clinicians to categorise tumours of the head and neck region to assist with the assessment of disease status, management and prognosis. Management of clinically negative neck is debatable in patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Although various therapeutic approaches are available, the data supporting any particular strategy do not appear to be consistent. The stage of oral cancer is one of the main prognostic indicators. The main aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between stage of tumour and the level of nodal metastasis and to analyse the relationship between primary site, pattern of invasion and extra capsular spread with the stage of tumour. During the study period of 1999-2008, 292 patients of OSCC with neck dissections were included in the study. Clinical details including the clinical stage of the tumour and histopathological features such as level of differentiation, nodal status and pattern of invasion were assessed. The M: F ratio was 2.8:1. The age ranged from 24 to 86 years (mean age of 57.8±9.98 SD years). The commonest primary site was buccal mucosa followed by tongue. There were 123, 144 and 25 cases of well differentiated, moderately differentiated and poorly differentiated cancers, respectively. Of the 292 patients, 110 cases showed microscopically positive nodes and 80 of them showed extracapsular invasion. Almost all stage 1 and 2 tumours showed negative nodes and all cases of stage 3 and stage 4 tumours showed lymph node metastasis and this association was statistically significant for each site (P < 0.001; chi-square test). There was a significant association between the stage of the tumour and extracapsular invasion (P < 0.001; chi-square test). Pattern of invasion was another reproducible prognostic marker which showed a significant relationship with metastasis and extracapsular invasion (P < 0.001, chi-square test). In conclusion, the present study provides valuable information with regard to treatment plan for patients with clinical stage 1 and 2 tumours (T1NO, T2NO). Tumours with stage 3 and 4 with pattern of invasion III or IV appears to be reliable predictors of metastasis and can be used as a tool to decide management of neck nodes. Therefore, clinical stage of the tumour should be regarded as a key factor in deciding the treatment of neck nodes in OSCC.
Animal bites and their management with reference to rabies prevention in a Sri Lankan rural population: A preliminary survey
(University of Peradeniya, 2011-11-24) Jayatilake, J. A. M. A.; Weerasinghe, I .E.; Jayatilake, J. A .M. S.
Rabies is a deadly viral infection transmitted by animal bites. More than fifty deaths occur due to rabies in Sri Lanka annually while a large number of animal bites are reported daily. Anti-rabies vaccination given to animal bite victims is costly for a developing country. Therefore, the aims of this preliminary hospital survey were to describe the types of animal bites and their management with reference to rabies prevention in a rural population in Sri Lanka. All animal bite victims presented on the same day of each week from January 6th to February 10th, 2010 (six consecutive Wednesdays) at Mahiyanganaya base hospital, a leading referral centre in Uva province of Sri Lanka, were interviewed using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Details of wound management with reference to rabies prevention also were recorded. Frequencies and associations were determined statistically. A total of 55 animal bite victims [32 (58%) males, 23 (42%) females] in an age range of 2 - 60 years were recorded during the study. Of them, 19 (34.5%) were below 16 years. There were 12 (22%) upper limb bites and 42 (76%) lower limb bites. One child patient had sustained a bite on the genital area. Moreover, 18 (33%) patients had past history of animal bites while 19 (34.5%) stated that at least one family member had experienced an animal bite. There were 43 (78%) dog bites and 12 (22%) cat bites accounting for 14 (25.5%) major wounds and 41 (74.5%) minor wounds. Dog bites showed an association with males (Fishers' exact test=0.04, P= 0.05). Furthermore, 37 (67%) were provoked bites. Only 14 {25.5%) animals had been vaccinated and 44 (80%) were observable. Eleven bites (20%) were caused by stray animals. Anti-rabies vaccine (ARV) was given to 54 victims. Both ARV and anti-rabies serum (ARS) were given to 06 patients. One person was subjected to post-exposure therapy (PET) delay. Notably, 36 (65.5%) patients presented to the hospital within 24h. All had cleaned the bite wounds with soap and water. In conclusion, males in this community are commonly affected by animal bites particularly caused by dogs. The commonest site affected by animal bites is the lower limb. Dogs and cats were the only animals that caused bites during this study. Experiencing animal bites in several occasions by the same patient and at least one family member of each patient receiving an animal bite may indicate that animal bites are a common problem in this community. In addition, many were provoked bites due to unvaccinated animals leading to ARV and ARS therapy. Although a big proportion seeks early medical treatment there are late comers. People should be educated on the importance of preventing animal bites, vaccinating animals and receiving early treatment for prevention of rabies.
Anti-Candidal activity of piper betle, Vitex negundo and Jasminum grandiflorum
(University of Peradeniya, 2011-11-24) Nanayakkara, B. S.; Abayasekara, C. L.; Kanatiwela, H. M. D. K.; Senanayake, M. R. D. M.; Panagoda, G.J.
With the evolution of resistance by microorganisms to prevailing antimicrobials and the potential health hazards of synthetic antimicrobial drugs, the need for the discovery of new antimicrobial compounds is evident. Several plant products have been proven to have a potential as antimicrobial agents. Betel leaves which are commonly used as a masticatory agent in some communities and two other oral medicinal plants were investigated for their anti-candidal activity in the current study. The objectives of the study were to determine the anti-candidal activity of young and mature leaves of Piper bet/e L., (,Bulath' [S], 'Vettilai' [T] ) collected from the dry zone and wet zone of Sri Lanka, leaves and roots of Vitex negundo L. ('Nika' [S]. 'Nir-nichchi' [TJ ) and leaves of Jasminum grandiflorum L. ('Saman-pichcha' [S], 'Kodimalligai' [T] ) and to determine their Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (MIC). Water and ethanolic extracts of the plant material were prepared and their anticandidal activity against standard cultures of Candida albicans (ATCC 90028), Candida glabrata (ATCC 90030), Candida krusei (ATCC 6258), Candida parapsilosis (ATCC 22019) and Candida tropicalis (ATCC 13803) was investigated by the agar well diffusion bioassay. Extracts which gave a zone of inhibition of ⩾3 mm radius were reckoned to be significantly active. The MIC's of the active extracts were determined. The ethanolic extracts of young leaves of P. bet/e showed significant anticandidal activity against C. albicans, C. glabrata, C. krusei, C. parapsilosis and C. tropicalis. Young leaves showed a' significantly higher anti-candidal activity compared to mature leaves (P < 0.05). The MIC values obtained for the ethanolic extract of young leaves of P. bet/e against the five Candida spp. were 1.6 mg/mL for C. albicans, 0.8 mg/mL for C. glabrata, 1.6 mg/mL for C. krusei, 0.6 mg/mL for C. parapsilosis and 3.2 mg/mL for C. tropicalis. There was no significant difference between the anti-candidal activity of leaves of P. betle collected from the wet zone and the dry zone (P > 0.05). The water extracts of leaves of P. betle and water and ethanolic extracts of leaves and roots of V. negundo and leaves of J. grandiflorum did not show a significant anti-candidal activity. It could be concluded that the ethanolic extract of young leaves of P. bet/e has significant anti-candidal activity, and therefore has the potential to be used as a health care agent.
Antioxidant activity of different varieties of bitter gourds (Momordica spp.) cultivated in Sri Lanka
(University of Peradeniya, 2011-11-24) Pratheepa, S.; Somawathie, K. M.; Sarananda, K. H.; Madhujith, T.
Bitter gourd is an important functional food crop grown in low lands of Sri Lanka. It has been well recognised that people consuming diets rich in plant food are at reduced risk of developing chronic diseases, such as coronary heart disease, diabetes mellitus, cancers and neurodegenerative diseases, among others. The bioactivities present in bitter gourd are partially attributable to the antioxygenic and free radical scavenging activities. The objective of this study was to assess the total phenolic content, total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and free radical scavenging efficacy of three varieties of bitter gourd (Mormodica charantia): Palee, Matale Green and Thinnaweli White and Momordica dioica variety Visal commonly known as Thumba karawila grown in Sri Lanka. Bitter gourd pods were obtained from registered farm fields in Wellawaya and Grain Legume and Oil Crop Research Station, Angunakolapelessa and cultivated in Yala season of the year 2011. The crops were cultivated under irrigation using recommended agronomic practices of the Department of Agriculture. Water extracts of each variety were prepared and total phenolic content of extracts was determined using Folin Ciocalteau colorimetry method and expressed as mg gallic acid equivalents per gram fruit weight on wet weight basis. Fee radical scavenging activity of water extract of bitter gourds was evaluated using 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and TAC was also assessed. Total phenolic content of bitter gourd varieties tested ranged between 12.39 ± 0.79 and 27.66 ± 1.84 mg gallic acid equivalents per 100 g fresh fruit. The highest total phenolic content was observed in M. dioica variety Visal while the lowest was observed in Thinnaweli White. The total phenolic content of Pa/ee and Matale Green was intermediate and not significantly different (p<0.05) from each other. The concentration of extract required to scavenge 50% of DPPH radical (ICso value) of bitter gourd extracts was calculated using data obtained from scavenging of DPPH radical. It was observed that the ICsovalues of different bitter gourd varieties tested ranged from 82.89±1.66 to 949.5±16.8 rnq/rnl. M. dioica showed the highest DPPH radical scavenging efficacy (ICso= 82.89±1.66 mg/ml) while Thinnaweli White showed the lowest (IC50=949.5±16.8 mg/ml). Total antioxidant capacity was determined by calculating the percentage inhibition after a lapse of 1 min. The TAC of bitter gourd varieties tested showed the following order: M. dioica variety Visal > Palee = Matale Green> Thinnaweli White. The total phenolic content and the IC50 value of all varieties tested were well correlated (W = 0.933). Furthermore, total phenolic content and TAC also showed a strong correlation (R2 = 0.8937). This study showed that bitter gourd varieties tested possess strong antioxidant properties. Of the varieties tested, M. dioica variety Visal (Thumba karawila) possessed the highest total phenolic content and exhibited the highest DPPH radical scavenging efficacy and total antioxidant capacity while Thinnaweli White variety belonging to M. Charantia showed the lowest total phenolic content, total antioxidant capacity and DPPH radical scavenging activity.
Antioxidant, Cytotoxic and Phytotoxic activities of Schumacheria castaneifolia, a plant endemic to Sri Lanka
(University of Peradeniya, 2011-11-24) Bandara, R. M. C. J.; Abeykoon, D. M. B.; Bandara, B. M. R.; Wickramasinghe, A.; Wijesundara, D. S. A.; Karunaratne, N.; Karunaratne, V.
Investigation of the bioactivity of plants and their constituents is an important step in the discovery of novel drugs. The genus Schumacheria belonging to the family Dilleniaceae is endemic to Sri Lanka and contains three species, S. castaneifolia, S. alnifolia and S. angustifolia. There has been no systematic search for bioactive agents from the genus Schumacheria. This paper describes antioxidant, cytotoxic and phytotoxic properties of S. castaneifolia. The plant was collected from Thummodara in the Sabaragamuwa Province. Air- dried leaves, root-bark and stem-bark were separately extracted into methanol and dichloromethane, and the extracts were tested for antioxidant activity using the 2,2- diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay, cytotoxicity using the brine shrimp (Artemia salina) assay and phytotoxicity using the lettuce (Lactuca sativa) seed assay. In the antioxidant assay the ICso values of methanol extracts of the stem-bark, root-bark and leaves were 11, 7.6 ppm and 9.2 ppm, respectively; the dichloromethane extracts had relatively low activity with the corresponding IC50 values at 212.2 ppm, 196.4 ppm and 210.5 ppm. The antioxidant activity of the known antioxidant, (±)-a-tocopherol showed an IC50 value of 11.4 ppm. Methanol and dichloromethane extracts of the stem bark, root-bark and leaves showed low cytotoxic activity having LC50 values for methanolic extracts at 903.8 ppm, 81.6 ppm and 66.0 ppm and for dichloromethane extracts at 74.4 ppm, 30.9 ppm and 340.1 ppm, respectively. A lactone isolated from a Hortonia sp. in a previous study was used as a positive reference control and showed an LC50 value of 0.14 ppm. Phytotoxicity assay revealed root inhibition of 80.2% and shoot inhibition of 83.9% for the dichloromethane leaf extract at 2000 ppm level while the corresponding values for the methanolic extracts were 28.7% and 35.5%, respectively.
Applicability of Zimmermann multi objective fuzzy linear programming model under large Vagueness
(University of Peradeniya, 2011-11-24) Seneviratne, S. M. N. S. K.; Daundasekera, W. B.
Problems related to agriculture that deal with nature often suffer from imprecision and vagueness. The most recent method developed in order to deal with these problems quantitatively, is Fuzzy Linear Programming (FLP). In 1978 Zimmermann developed a model to find a solution for the Multi Objective Linear Programming problem. This was done with the use of fuzzy decision theory presented by Bellman and Zadeh in 1970. In the present study, Zimmermann (1985) model was applied to three districts in Sri Lanka which are popular for vegetable cultivation, namely, Badulla, Matale and Nuwara Eliya. Badulla and Matale are in the Intermediate zone and Nuwara Eliya is in the up-country wet zone. These zones differ greatly with respect to temperature, rainfall and soil. This study was undertaken to find out the applicability of Zimmermann (1985) model when there is high vagueness within the system under study. Such a study has not been reported in literature. The applicability of Zimmermann (1985) model under such conditions was measured using how effectively the model chooses right crops for each district. The most appropriate crops for each district is selected by considering the respective profit which is recorded in the Department of Agriculture The most appropriate crops selected by the Zimmermann (1985) model were compared with the data obtained by the Department of Agriculture.
An assesment of the coexistance of humans and elephants in Sri Lanka
(University of Peradeniya, 2011-11-24) Ramethaa, J.; Wijekoon, P.; Santiapillai, C.; Wijeyamohan, S.
Sri Lanka has globally significant biodiversity that is currently threatened by deforestation, land degradation and unregulated exploitation of natural resources. With the increase in human population density and changes in land-use patterns, elephant habitat is being continuously reduced, and there is no longer much room for elephants to move about and adjust their densities to changes in the land-use. As a result, much of the present day elephant range extends into and overlaps with agricultural lands, hence aggravating the Human-Elephant Conflict (HEC). Mitigation of HEC requires a complete understanding of the problem and its specific causes. This study was conducted by Feld Entertainment, Inc. and the Ringling Center for Elephant Conservation (CEC) in Florida, USA. The main objective was to get a clear idea on the significant factors affecting coexistence of humans and elephants. Secondary data collected by the third and fourth authors were used for the analysis. The assessment of the HEC was carried out by them from July to December 2009 during which information on HEC was collected through the use of a designed questionnaire in 185 villages selected by using judgmental sampling technique from seven provinces (North, North Central, North Western, Eastern, Central, Uva and South) within the elephants range. An ordinal logistic regression model was fitted for the data by taking the "Severity levels of HEC" as the dependent variable. Independent variables such as elephant movement, group size, distance from the closest elephant habitat border and the availability of a water source were identified as significant factors affecting coexistence of humans and elephants. This model, with a logit link, appeared to be the best model in this study based on model fitting statistics, the accuracy of classification results and the principle of parsimony. It can be assessed whether coexistence of humans and elephants is possible or not in each area according to the predicted probabilities of the severity level of HEC from the above model. As elephants are incompatible with peasant agriculture at high densities, if they are to coexist with humans, then the level of conflict must be substantially reduced. Although it is unlikely that the HEC can be eliminated altogether, every effort must be taken to reduce it to tolerable levels.
Assessment of interests, attitudes, future aspirations and Socio- Economic background of first year students of the Faculty of Agriculture
(University of Peradeniya, 2011-11-24) Wijerathna, R. M. S
Students who are selected to the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Peradeniya to follow the Agriculture Technology and Management degree programme (AgTec & Mgt), may have different aspirations to reach at the end of the study period. The level of satisfaction and attitudes after getting selected to the Faculty of Agriculture, and their motivation to study can vary depending on the expectations they had when they sat for the Advanced Level examination (AIL). Students come from various regions of the country representing different socio-economic backgrounds. Under the AgTec & Mgt degree programme students need to follow the first semester at Mahailluppallama Sub Campus located in Anuradhapura District. This study was conducted to assess (i) the level of satisfaction of students on their selection to the AgTec & Mgt degree programme, (ii) their preference to stay at Mahailluppallama, (iii) socio-economic background of students and their future aspirations, and (iv) possible associations (i.e. number of times AIL attempted, level of satisfaction, and intension for migration) with gender. Students who entered in 2010 to follow the AgTec & Mgt degree programme were selected for the study (n = 180). Data were collected using a questionnaire survey and 151 students responded. There were more female students (62%) in the batch than male students (38%). Most of the parents of these students were AIL qualified (42%) and monthly family income of 74% was below Rs. 20,000. A significant association was found between gender and level of satisfaction after selection to the AgTec & Mgt degree program. Among male students, over 67% was 'highly satisfied' while 28% was 'satisfied' regarding selection to the AgTec & Mgt degree program. Among female students, only 41 % was 'highly satisfied' while 56% was 'satisfied' for their selection. Z scores of the students at the G.C.E. AIL examination was poorly correlated with their first semester Grade Point Average (G.P.A., r=0.182, p<0.026). Percentage of male students who entered the University through their first attempt was higher (18%) than that of female students (7%). Irrespective of gender, over 70% of the students liked the program at Mahailluppallama while the rest (-30%) had a neutral feeling. A significant association between gender and intention for migration was observed. Among male students, 66% preferred local jobs while 34% preferred to migrate. However, for female students only 25% preferred migration over local jobs. Majority of the students (59%) preferred employment in the government sector while 34% preferred the private sector and only 5% preferred self employment. Therefore; it is important to develop attitudinal changes towards the private sector employment in university students while encouraging them to acquire the necessary technical and soft skills. Since Z score of the students was poorly correlated with their first semester G.PA it needs further attention.
Assessment of nutritional status of elderly hospitalised patients according to their Co-Morbid conditions and educational levels using mini nutrition assessment tool
(University of Peradeniya, 2011-11-24) Jayalath, W.A.T.A.; Kumara, S. K. G. P .H.
Elderly patients suffering from various age specific and other diseases and vulnerability to those diseases increase with a higher risk of them being nutritionally deprived .Mini nutrition assessment tool (MNA) has been developed for rapid assessment of the nutritional status of geriatric patients. Data on prevalence of malnutrition in various disease conditions is not available in Sri Lanka. This present study applied the MNA tool to find the prevalence of malnutrition in hospitalised elderly patients according to their comorbid conditions and educational level. A cross-sectional hospital based study was conducted at the Medical wards 07 and 08, Teaching Hospital, Peradeniya in August to September 2011 using an interviewer administered questionnaire. All patients> 65 years old were included in the study. Maximum circumference of the left calf was measured. A total score of 0-7 points was considered 'malnourished', 8-11 'at risk of malnutrition' and 12-14 'normal nutritional' status. A total of 175 patients were included in the study. Thirty three patients had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (CaPO) and two of them (6%) had normal nutritional status, nine (27.27%) were at risk of malnutrition and 22 (66.66%) were malnourished. Numbers of hypertensive patients were 82 and 12 (14.63%) had normal nutritional status, 37 (45.12%) were at risk of malnutrition and 33 (40.24%) were malnourished. Diabetes mellitus group included 36 patients and six (16.66%) had normal nutritional status, 19 (52.77%) were at risk malnutrition and 11 (30.55%) had malnutrition. Twenty two patients had ischemic heart disease and three (13.63%) had normal nutritional status, ten (45.45%) were at risk of malnutrition, nine (40.90%) had malnutrition. Fourteen patients had bronchial asthma and one (7.14%) had normal nutritional status, ten (71.4%) were at risk of malnutrition, three (21.4%) had malnutrition. Thirty eight patients had no identified co-morbid conditions and three (7.8%) had normal nutritional status, 17 (44.73%) were at risk of malnutrition, 18 (47.36%) were malnourished. In the study population, 27 patients have not gone to school and none of them had normal nutritional status. Of them, 13 (48.14%) were at risk of malnutrition and 14 (51.85%) were malnourished. Out of 55 patients who were educated from grade 1-5, two (3.63%) had normal nutritional status, 18 (32.72%) were at risk of malnutrition, 35 (63.63%) were malnourished. Of 67 patients educated up to grade 6-11, 11 (16.41 %) were at normal nutritional status, 31 (46.26%) were at risk of malnutrition, 25 (37.31 %) were malnourished. Out of 26 patients with educational level at grade 12, seven (26.92%) had normal nutritional status, 12 (46.15%) were at risk of malnutrition, seven (26.92%) were malnourished. This study shows different co-morbid conditions affect nutritional status in different ways. capo patients had the highest prevalence of malnutrition (66.66%). capo leads to the development of malnutrition and vice versa. Bronchial asthma patients were at highest risk of malnourishment (71.4%). Diabetes and hypertension affect nutritional status in a more complex way because almost all were type 2 diabetes patients and a significant percentage of them were obese. As the educational level of patients increase, the prevalence of malnutrition decreased and normal nutritional status increased. Therefore, planning of nutritional intervention of patients should differ according to different disease conditions and educational levels.
Assessment of nutritional status of medical ward patients aged more than 65 years using mini nutrition assessment tool
(University of Peradeniya, 2011-11-24) Jayalath, W. A. T. A.; Kumara, S. K. G. P. H.
Mini nutrition assessment tool (MNA) was developed to rapidly assess the nutritional status of elderly people which can be used as part of a standard evaluation of such patients in the wards. This is a validated tool, already in practice in western countries which show the prevalence of malnutrition among hospitalised patients to be 20.5%- 21.5%. Currently MNA tool is not used for this purpose in Sri Lanka and data on prevalence of malnutrition in hospital settings is also not available. Early detection of patients who are at risk of malnutrition helps health care workers to take necessary preventive actions. This present study applies MNA tool to find the prevalence of malnutrition in hospitalised geriatric patients and also according to their age and gender. A cross-sectional hospital based study was conducted at the Medical wards 07 and 08 in Teaching Hospital, Peradeniya in August and September 2011 using an interviewer administered questionnaire. All the patients > 65 years were included in the study. Left calf circumference was measured instead of body mass index (8MI). Responses to the questions and the calf circumference were given different scores and finally the total score was calculated. If the total score fell between the range of 0-7 points patient was categorised as malnourished, 8-11at risk of malnutrition and 12-14 normal nutritional status. Of the total 175 patients (99 male, 76 female) included in the study, 20 (11.4%) were in the normal nutritional status, 74 (42.3%) were at risk of malnutrition and 81 (46.3%) in the malnutrition categories. Out of 99 males, 15 (15.15%) had normal nutritional status, 46 (46.46%) were at risk of malnutrition and 38 (38.38%) were malnourished. Out of 76 females, five (6.57%) had normal nutritional status, 28 (36.84%) were in at risk malnutrition category and 43 (56.57%) had malnutrition. Out of 95 patients in the 66y-75y age group, 14 (14.73%) had normal nutritional status, 46 (48.42%) were at risk of malnutrition, 35 (36.84%) had malnutrition. Out of 70 patients in the 76y-85y age group, 6 (8.57%) had normal nutritional status, 25 (35.71%) were at risk of malnutrition, 39 (55.71%) had malnutrition. In the age group of > 86y, none had normal nutritional status, 3 (30%) were at risk of malnutrition, 7 (70%) were malnourished. This study shows 46.3% of hospitalised patients were malnourished and 42.3% were at risk of malnutrition. These figures are much higher than the western figures. Female malnourished group contain more patients than their male counterparts, but male patients were at a higher risk of malnutrition than females. As the age increases, the number with malnutrition and risk of malnutrition increased. As admissions of malnourished elderly patients into medical wards are high in Teaching Hospital Peradeniya, it is a major health care problem. Health care workers should pay more attention to identify patients who are malnourished and at risk of malnutrition patients and take action to improve their nutritional status, which will lead to rapid recovery of patients.
Assessment of task specific kinetic finger tremor while playing carrom using surface Electromyography
(University of Peradeniya, 2011-11-24) Weerasinghe, V. S.; Kahathuduwa, C. N.; Perera, S. L. A. D. C. B.; Bandara, W. M. M.; Priyadarshana, H. K. R.; Dissanayake, D. H. M. A. L.; Leelarathne, A. Y.N.; Nawarathne, E. M. N. T.; Semini, K. A. I.
A tremor has been observed in the middle finger in one fourth of carrom players just before striking. The aim of this study is to describe the characteristics of the above tremor and to determine its effect on the performance of the carrom players using surface electromyography and spectral analysis. The details regarding carrom play, tremor and any conditions that could precipitate tremor in 150 otherwise normal young adults, who are carrom players, were obtained using a questionnaire. The real time recording of surface Electromyography (EMG) activity of the Extensor Digitorum Cominis (EDC) muscle of the dominant hand was obtained in a study group of 20 subjects who developed tremor and in a non-tremor control group of 20 subjects. The tremor group and the non-tremor controls were compared at 95% confidence on the frequency, power and performance. Out of the 150 subjects, 23.3% believed to have a tremor, of whom, 60% believed that the tremor was adversely affecting their performance. The mean frequency of the EMG activity of EDC while playing carrom were 8.310Hz and 8.605Hz for the tremor and non-tremor control groups respectively, showing no statistically significant difference (p=0.505). The power of the EMG power spectra of the tremor group was significantly superior to that of the control group (p=0.001). The comparison of the performance tested with a chi-square test of independence revealed that there is no significant difference in the performance of the tremor group and the control group. The power spectra of all the subjects were demonstrating 3 clear peaks at the ranges of 2-5 Hz, 6-11 Hz and 18-24 Hz. Similar peaks had been shown to occur in the power spectra of all subjects while pointing a laser beam into a circle in a previous study. The second peak was consistent with physiological tremor in both studies proving that carrom is an activity which enhances physiological tremor. The higher power of the tremor waves in the subjects observed to develop tremor, allowed the visualization of the tremor waves as opposed to the controls. This study therefore concludes that a tremor develops while playing carrom in approximately one fourth of carrom players. The frequency of the tremor was found to be within the range of physiological tremor, suggesting that this is an enhanced physiological tremor. Tremor was not found to affect the performance.
Association between egg production and body morphology of some village chicken ecotypes in Sri Lanka
(University of Peradeniya, 2011-11-24) Sanjeewa, M. N.; Liyanage, R. P.; Vidanarachchi, J. K.; Silva, G. L. L. P.
Village chickens, which are more adapted to local environment and management conditions, contribute 15% of the national egg production. Although they are poor egg producers, their potential in contributing to the rural poultry industry is yet to be determined. A study was conducted to evaluate the association between egg production and body morphology of different village chicken types, and to estimate the general egg quality and nutritional quality of eggs from different village chicken types in five selected villages in the Anuradhapura and Puttlam districts. A total of 138 birds representing four village chicken ecotypes, namely normal village chicken, naked neck, long leg and crown, were evaluated for body weight, pelvis width and breast width, body circumference, back length, wing length, keel length, comb type, body type, head type and egg production. Sixty eggs representing all ecotypes were investigated for egg weight, size, length and width of the albumin and shell thickness. Three eggs of each ecotype were taken for egg quality measurements at days 3, 5 and 10. The height of the thick albumin and yolk and area of albumin and yolk, yolk color, Haugh index, Albumin index, Albumin area index and Yolk index were calculated to determine internal quality of eggs. The external quality parameter, Shape index, was also calculated. Dry matter, crude fat, crude protein, and ash content were determined for nutrient quality analysis using three representative eggs from each ecotype. All egg quality parameters were also carried out with eggs from a commercial strain (ISA White) for comparison. Four ecotypes of chicken showed varying degree of relationships between body parameters and egg production. Pelvis width showed a positive relationship with egg production. Egg quality parameters were similar in eggs from all ecotypes and the commercial strain except for ash and fat contents. The ash contents of eggs from the four village chicken types were significantly high (P<0.05) compared to that of commercial strain, whereas fat content of egg yolk of normal village chicken was significantly higher (P<0.05) than that of commercial chicken egg yolk. Eggs from all village chicken ecotypes had a higher fat content than the commercial chicken egg. The internal egg quality declined with storage in both village and commercial egg while commercial egg showed a drastic decline during storage compared to village chicken eggs. The external egg quality remained unchanged in all egg types.
Association between plasma lipid levels and periodontitis: A preliminary analysis
(University of Peradeniya, 2011-11-24) Perera, W. K. L.; Amaratunga, E. A. A. P.; Mohotty, W. C.; Perera, N. P. M.; Kularatne, S.; Sivakanesan, R.; Tilakaratne, A.
Hyperlipidaemia and periodontitis are both highly prevalent chronic diseases in the world population, with periodontal disease being the most prevalent adult oral health problem in Sri Lanka. Literature reveals a bidirectional relationship between periodontitis and some systemic illnesses including atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases, metabolic diseases such as diabetes mellitus and dyslipidaemia. Dyslipidaemia is an established causative factor for atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases. Periodontitis could alter blood lipid metabolism, however treating periodontal infections improves the dyslipideamic status in patients. The objective of this study was to evaluate any possible relationship between presence of periodontitis and blood lipid levels. This is an ongoing study in the Division of Periodontology, Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya. The study consisted of a 'Test' group of patients (n = 47) diagnosed with periodontitis according to the established diagnostic criteria, and an age and sex matched 'Control' group (n = 22) with individuals free of periodontitis who attended the clinic for dental consultations. Full mouth periodontal assessments were done by a well trained practitioner, following intra-examiner calibration. Their lipid profiles were assessed within three days following recruiting subjects and prior to commencing periodontal treatment or oral prophylaxis. Results of the preliminary analysis showed that, there were significant increases in levels of Total-Cholesterol and Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol in the test group compared to the control group (p < 0.013 and p < 0.007, respectively; Students t-test). This preliminary finding supports the already reported trend by similar research studies outside Sri Lanka to describe the association of hyperlipidemia and periodontitis.
Attitudes of past students towards the complexity of advanced level Biology curriculum
(University of Peradeniya, 2011-11-24) Dedduwa, M. S.; Soortyapathirana, S. D. S. S.
The first detailed exposure in Biology for Sri Lankan students is through the Biology subject in the General Certificate of Education Advanced Level (AIL) curriculum. However, only a limited number of students are successful in getting selected to national universities through the highly competitive AIL examination. Students work hard to excel in this examination, which is an enormous stress for students. It is argued that increased stress and resulting problems are due to the complexity of the AIL Biology curriculum and that the content should be simplified. However, society has mixed feelings about simplifying the AIL Biology curriculum. Some believe simplification would alleviate the burden and stress on students while others think simplification would not allow students to develop the required competence in Biology and would make them unprepared for higher education and jobs, and not enable them to understand contemporary biological issues and biological problems in daily life. These diverse opinions on the current debate on Simplification of AIL Biology curriculum has not been studied adequately. Therefore, the present study was conducted to assess the attitudes of past-students of AIL Biology, who sat for the AIL examination after the year 2000, towards the complexity of the AIL Biology curriculum. A survey was conducted by using-questionnaire guided interviews with 100 past AIL Biology students; current university students in Biology related fields, professionals with degrees and professionals without degrees. The subject depth was considered adequate by majority of the respondents (80% or more) in all three categories. The extent of topics covered was also considered adequate by 75% of current university students, 63% of professionals with a degree and 67% of professionals without a degree. Around 70% of respondents in all three categories believed the complexity was at an optimum level. Thus, the general opinion of respondents was that they preferred the existing complexity of AIL Biology curriculum. More than 60% of the respondents were of the opinion that students face financial difficulties during their AIL studies. Ninety two percent of current university students felt stressed during AIL studies while only 47% of professionals with a degree and 55% of professionals without a degree felt stressed. More than 50% in each category enjoyed AIL Biology studies and around 40% had mixed feelings. Ninety percent of respondents in all three categories believed AIL Biology is helpful in their present careers and in daily life. Sixty percent of the respondents believed that there are job opportunities for people who have done AIL Biology. Ninety seven percent of professionals with a degree and all current university students were of the opinion that AIL Biology is very important for university education. Ninety nine percent of the past students used private tuition classes for AIL Biology studies and believed that extra support is essential to complete the syllabus and detailed learning. They were sarcastic about the role of government schools and teachers and suggested that the current system of teaching at schools should be improved. Majority of the respondents believed that it is not necessary to change the depth,extent and current level of complexity of the AIL Biology curriculum but it is important to include more applied aspects of Biology and practical sessions.
Bacterial isolates and in Vitro Biogram of milk collected fromcows with chronic mastitis in the Central Province of Sri Lanka
(University of Peradeniya, 2011-11-24) Thllakarathne, D. S.; Abeynayake, P.; Gunawardana, W. S. N.; Kottawatta, K. S. A.; Abeygunawardana, I. S.
Bovine chronic mastitis (CM) has been a common problem in dairy herds with serious and frustrating consequences. This exists in unnoticeable subclinical form for months, persisting from one lactation to another, with high tendency of being nonresponsive to therapy, resulting in intermittent flare-ups and ending up in sub-acute or acute form. Chronically infected cows act as carriers and they impose a severe economic burden. The present study was aimed at revealing the organisms involved in CM and disclosing their antimicrobial susceptibility. Two hundred and twelve cattle farms were selected through multistage sampling and 379 milking cows from these farms were screened by California Mastitis Test. Based on their history, 23 CM cows were identified and milk samples of these cows were cultured to obtain pure isolates. The bacterial isolates were identified on the basis of their cultural, morphological and biochemical characteristics. Susceptibility levels were determined by the disc diffusion method for seven commonly used antimicrobials in intra- mammary infusions. Prevalence of CM in cows was 6%. Bacterial growths were yielded from 20/23 samples (87%). Only two of them showed a single isolate of bacteria and the remaining were mixed cultures. Twenty four coagulase positive Staphylococci (CPS), nine coagulase negative Staphylococci (CNS). nine Gram negative rods, six Streptococcus spp. ten Bacillus spp and five Corynebacterium spp were obtained out of 63 different isolates. An in vitro biogram revealed that 11/24 were resistant to at least one of the antibiotics used. Moreover. 7/24 isolates exhibited multi-drug resistance for minimum of three antibiotics and four isolates were resistant to chloramphenicol. Cephalothin was the most effective antibiotic (96%) for CPS. Only one CNS isolate showed multi-drug resistance and others were susceptible for all chemotherapeutic agents tested. Ampicillin was the drug of choice for Streptococci (with 100% susceptibility). Six out of nine (67%) Gram negatives were either resistant or intermediate to neomycin whereas all were susceptible to gentamicin. As there appears to be an increasing tendency of developing resistance to commonly used antimicrobials, indiscriminate and frequent use of antibiotics should be restricted to control emergence and spread of resistance. Moreover. identification of causative agents and testing their susceptibility to antibiotics is recommended prior to selecting a treatment for CM as the causative agent and the type of antimicrobial to be used cannot be generalised.

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