IPRC - 2019
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Item An Analytical Study on the Role of the Ministry of Public Administration and Management and Law and Order with Regard to he Ptopulation Right to Information Act(International Postgraduate Research Conference 2019, Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2019) Lakmali, H.A.N.The communication is conveying information and ideas.it is a featured inheritance for all beings including human. As a result of this the information access, transparency, responsibility, of the existing government and the participation of the community are expected through this act. The information act, No: 12 was establish in Sri Lanka on 3rd of August in 2016. One of such government institutions is Ministry of Public Administration & Management and Law and order Sri Lanka. in this study, the issues which affect the effective of the information act will be identified and the solutions will be presented. The steps which have been taken by the Ministry of Public Administration & Management and Law and order to enhance the community right to get the information of the secondary data are not in a satisfactory level Therefore the main objective of this study was to examine the community awareness, operations of the Authorities, challenges faced by them. The primary data and secondary data was collected. As a whole, although the awareness on information act was in a satisfactory level, the usage was not satisfactory. Hence, the awareness programs should be conducted through schools, universities, libraries, press media and social media. Both human and physical resources should be enhanced to promote the dissemination of information within the given community.Item Dressing of Sri Lankan Female School Teachers and Their Job Performance(International Postgraduate Research Conference 2019, Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2019) Jayasooriya, L.B.; De Silva, S.; Wanigasundera, P.Scrupulous attention is paid to the details of clothing at the workplace, where many organizations have strict rules and regulations regarding the dress codes of the employees. Previous studies show that the dress codes of the employees have an impact on professionalism, efficiency, productivity at work, communication, social distance, safety, economy and self-satisfaction. Nonetheless, the majority of these studies have been conducted in the western populations, whereas data in Asian countries, which have contrasting cultural norms to the western world, are sparse. Therefore, this study was catered to examine how clothing of Sri Lankan female school teachers affects their job performances. A mixed method integrating qualitative interviews and secondary data analysis along with quantitative data derived from a self-administrated questionnaire were used for the study. Quantitative data were obtained from 100 female school teachers from Kandy and Colombo districts in Sri Lanka while 15 in-depth interviews were conducted to obtain qualitative data. Results revealed that evolution and current practice of the dress of females were more into promote nationalism and culture. Though the current dress of Sri Lankan school teachers is the Saree/Abaya, the majority preferred to wear casual dresses (54%). Wilcoxon Signed Rank test showed that casual dress is significantly comfortable compared to their traditional dress (p<0.05). There was a significant difference between efficiency in performing given four tasks wearing casual attire over traditional attire as per Wilcoxon Signed Rank test statistics(p<0.05). Thirty percent of teachers in the sample have faced accidents due to their current dress. They suggested that they would be more productive in teaching and performing extra-curricular activities if they wear casual dresses. Hence, the findings of this study suggest that a change in the current dress of female school teachers into a more relaxing and a convenient one which is easy to maintain, wear and handle would help the teachers enliven their dynamic role while creating avenues for positive changes in the education sector in Sri LankaItem Ethics and Entrepreneurial Behavior; A Study based on Chartered Engineers in Sri Lanka(International Postgraduate Research Conference 2019, Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2019) Wijesinghe, D.P.S.; Jayawardane, V.P.T.; Dasanayaka, S.W.S.B.Many innovative-minded chartered engineers have become successful technology entrepreneurs around the world. Thus, a tremendous responsibility lies upon these engineers to behave and perform ethically in today’s competitive business world to create a sustainable world. Being professionally ethical does not always give positive results in businesses. Although the case is like that, as business leaders who manage their technological ventures, entrepreneurial professional engineers cannot neglect Engineering Ethics and perform entirely as pure business managers. But, novice engineers who just stepping to techno-entrepreneurship are showing a dilemma in adhering to Engineering Ethics from the beginning of their entrepreneurial journey. Hence, there is a blooming requirement for a deep study to ascertain the implications of Engineering Ethics on entrepreneurial behavior and corporate performance of professional engineers working as techno-entrepreneurs. The research literature also does not contain sufficient evidence of such investigation around the world. In this context, this study is designed to ascertain the implications of Engineering Ethics focusing on Chartered Engineers working as techno-entrepreneurs in the Sri Lankan industrial sector. The main methodology intended for the study will be qualitative with semi-structured face to face interviews with experienced chartered engineers working as techno-entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka. The main analysis methods will be based on grounded theory techniques. A framework, which can be developed from such a study to guide the impact of Engineering Ethics on entrepreneurial behavior and corporate performance of engineers working as techno- entrepreneurs will be helpful for current and future entrepreneurial engineers. This will assist them to make ethical decisions without a dilemma as professional engineers to create a sustainable business culture in technological ventures in Sri Lanka.Item Revival of Silk Route: Practicing China’s Economic Diplomacy(International Postgraduate Research Conference 2019, Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2019) Yapa, H.Ancient trade routes have played an important role in promotion economic ties and cultural linkages between nations. China, as one of the major trading partner in the world has established famous silk route to develop trade partnership between Europe, Middle East, Africa and Asia. After re-establishment of new silk route in 2003 which it consists of two most important projects called the ‘ New Silk Road Economic Belt ‘ and ‘21st Century Maritime Silk Road’ apparently paved the way for practicing China’s Economic Diplomacy. China’s investment, domestic growth by opening up new trade markets and the strengthening of the Chinese Yuan to become an international currency will improve the economic development and exchange between China and nations in this area are the major initiatives to taken up in recent years. The Silk Road induces developing unity among OBOR partners sharing its cultures by trade and now China is pursuing an insightful plan to revive ancient trading links with its neighbor countries, stretching South to North and East to West. This research paper is addressing new trends, patterns and prospects of OBOR initiatives taken up in the developing nations through building of New Economic Cooperation’s. Furthermore, this research paper examines the China’s economic behavior in the Silk Road project with implications for the developing nation’s special reference to Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka and China have practiced trade relations as a major center in the historical silk route over the last centuries and again China Sri Lanka have unprecedented economic and trade ties with after China’s significant influence in Sri Lankan market. The objective of this paper is to find out the impact of beneficial of OBOR projects conducted by host country towards developing economies. The research reveals the trade relations among China Sri Lanka and focus of its effect on our middle income index. The much more consideration goes to new projects executing in Sri Lanka particularly development and impact of port city in Colombo. The Chinese government has invested large amount to develop infrastructure and projects which consider as the Revival of Ancient Silk Route as a mutually beneficial program. Therefore, methodology of the study is derived from the analysis of trade statistics, literature reviews, document analysis and observations. Practical implications of the study are point out the challenges of China’s economic diplomacy to overcome US China trade war.Item Assessment of the Heavy Metals in Rice Grains Grown in Paddy Soil in CKDu Endemic Area in Eppawala, Anuradhapura(International Postgraduate Research Conference 2019, Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2019) Perera, W.P.R.T.; Dissanayake, D.M.U.C.; Kannangara, A.T.; Liyanage, J.A.Global public health attention is being focused on Chronic kidney disease due to significant prevalence and the enormous cost of the treatment process. It was revealed that longterm consumption of bioavailable metals in grains causes CKD in humans. Therefore, the present study was planned to assess the levels of heavy metals in rice grains grown in paddy soil in CKDu endemic area in Eppawala, Anuradhapura. The soil samples (n=30) were collected from paddy fields in Eppawala GN division. Rice plants with rice grains (n=30) were also collected from the same fields. Collected samples (soil, rice roots and rice grains) were digested using the microwave digester (MDS-6G). Concentrations of heavy metals (Cr, Fe, Cu, Zn, As, Cd, Pb) of the paddy soil, rice roots and ride grain samples were analyzed by ICP-MS (Agilent 7800). Based on the analyzed concentrations, Geo acumination indices were calculated to evaluate the heavy metal contamination conditions in the agricultural soil.The results indicated that the average concentrations of Cr, Cd, As and Pb in soil were 49.918 mg/kg, 0.107 mg/kg 5.033 mg/kg and 9.882 mg/kg respectively and they were 1.709 mg/kg, 0.027 mg/kg, 0.217 mg/kg, 0.566 mg/kg respectively in roots. Nevertheless, the lowest levels of metals were observed from rice grains (Cr, Cd, As and Pb were recorded as 0.342 mg/kg, 0.011 mg/kg, 0.035 mg/kg, 0.112 mg/kg respectively). According to the Igeo calculations, agricultural paddy soil in the Eppawala area has been moderately contaminated with Pb, As, Zn, and Cu. (Class 2). Nevertheless, Cd and Cr levels were between near to moderate contamination level. (Class 1). Although the levels of metals in rice grains were low, long term consumption of metal contaminated rice may contribute to chronic failure.Item A Study into the Attitude of L2 Learners towards Vocabulary Learning(International Postgraduate Research Conference 2019, Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2019) Nirmani, W.A.S.; Maithripala, W.G.S.Vocabulary learning is of paramount importance in the process of second language learning. Learning vocabulary helps the learner to enhance the competence and knowledge in English language. Thus it is very much essential for the teachers as well as the learners to understand the importance of vocabulary learning in the second language classroom in order to develop in their language skills as their attitude towards vocabulary learning will determine the effort the learners put forth to acquire new vocabulary. The present study explores the attitudes of L2 learners in the tertiary level towards the importance of vocabulary in learning English. It investigates the differences of attitude of 52 participants who are in the Basic level of English proficiency in the first year of the Faculty of Arts. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data which consists of two sections: Part A is comprised of 6 questions on the participant’s demographic data when Part B contains 7 close-ended statements on the attitude of the students towards the importance given to vocabulary in learning English. The study used descriptive analysis by using IBM SPSS 20 software. The results of the study revealed that the majority of the students have admitted that they can understand the sentences which are even grammatically wrong as they place importance in the vocabulary rather than in the accuracy of the sentence. Moreover they have placed more importance in expressive vocabulary which includes speaking and writing skills than on the receptive vocabulary that consists of reading and listening skills. In conclusion, the students showed a positive attitude towards the importance of vocabulary in English language learning. The findings of the present study conclude with the pedagogical implications that instructors can design vocabulary activities targeting expressive vocabulary to promote positive attitude in vocabulary acquisition and thus boost learners’ interest in the study of second languageItem Production, Optimization and Characterization of Thermostable, Halotolerant, Detergent Compatible Cellulase from a Bacillus sp using Agricultural Residues(International Postgraduate Research Conference 2019, Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2019) Jayarathne, J.A.J.C.; Kawan, A.; Prakash, P.Lignocellulose biomass is considered to be the most copious and renewable organic material on the planet. Agricultural residues are a great source of lignocellulose biomass which is inexpensive, renewable and environmentally friendly. Cellulose is the predominant constitute, while hemicellulose, pectin, and lignin are present as minor components. Cellulase is the key to achieve economically valuable high-energy molecules via effective enzymatic hydrolysis. Cellulases are adaptive enzymes which are synthesized by microorganisms during their growth in the media when cellulosic substrates are present. The current study was focused on optimizing the production conditions of cellulase-producing bacteria isolated from garden soil using inexpensive agro wastes as the sole carbon source. Furthermore, the cellulase enzyme was partially purified and characterized under different parameters. Bacterial strain, Bacillus clausii was manifested to produce extracellular thermostable, halotolerant and detergent stable cellulase. The culture conditions for the growth of the enzyme producer were optimized with respect to incubation time, pH, temperature, carbon sources and nitrogen sources. Cellulase production was instigated at 12 hours as soon as the bacterium entered the exponential phase and reached its maximum at 48 hours. The production of cellulase was active in a significant range of pH from pH 7 to 11. Optimal pH was recorded to be pH 11. The maximal cellulase activity was obtained between 30⁰C to 40⁰C. The yield of cellulase was enhanced nearly by 45% in the presence of agricultural residues including 1% of corn husks and jack fruit peel powder. Cellulase was partially purified by 60% of ammonium sulfate precipitation method followed by the dialysis. Partially purified cellulase was subjected to characterization. Maximum enzyme activity was recorded at pH 5 and 50⁰C. The enzyme was thermostable perpetuating 100% original activity at 60⁰C for 1 hour. The enzyme was active over a broad spectrum of sodium chloride of 2 % to 14% and the enzyme activity was induced by 8% of Sodium Chloride (NaCl). Cellulase activity was significantly inhibited by the presence of mercury (ii) ion. Detergent compatibility was varied with different types of commercially available laundry detergents. Cellulase depicted its apex of stability with respect to Surf Excel. In addition, cellulase rendered its stability in the presence of 1% Sodium Dodecyl Sulphate (SDS) and it might give an indication to be used as a potential additive in the detergent industry. We believe that the utilization of garden soil bacteria upon cellulosic waste is an inexpensive approach to reduce the enzyme production cost. And also, indirectly it helps to reduce environmental pollution. Besides, the production of cellulases that can actively participate in harsh environmental conditions is considered to be an important application from the industrial perspective.Item A Study on the Necessity of Implementing Online Programs for Higher Educational Institutes in Sri Lanka(International Postgraduate Research Conference 2019, Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2019) Muthugamage, C.D.; Deepani, E.A.T.; Hettiarachchi, K.S.T.Generally, education is considered as a factor which moulds an individual to a professional. Conventional education refers to long-established customs that society traditionally used in educational institutes. In Sri Lanka, education for both secondary and tertiary education still depends on routine physical attendance of students in classroom activities. When considering the higher education in Sri Lanka, in most of the situations, working professionals face various constraints in continuing their further studies. As a result of this issue, a knowledge gap is created. However, with the passage of the time and with transformation of the teaching and learning methods in education, technology received a high demand in the educational sector. Moreover, in the contemporary world, there is a trend for online programs which can fill the aforementioned gap. This research study examines the necessity of implementing online programs in Sri Lankan higher educational institutes. As the targeted population is considerably high sample has been selected from National Institute of Business Management and has been narrowed down to the students graduated from School of Computing and School of Business in the year of 2018. Due to complexity of studying, the sampling has been limited to 250 graduates. A questionnaire was circulated among randomly selected 50 (25 each) graduated-working professionals of National Institute of Business Management and using random sampling method. They are asked to recirculate the provided questionnaire among five colleagues in the same organization from different higher educational institutes in Sri Lanka. The data analysis method used in the research study is regression analysis. The results of the research study revealed that the demand for the online programs among the working professionals is high due to many advantages that they can fulfill. Moreover, the findings indicate the factors (independent variables); self-efficacy, social influence, user satisfaction, quality of information and academic relevance. Based on the factors the findings indicate that there is a strong effect on the demand for online programs in multi-disciplinesItem Prediction of Dengue Incidence Based on Time Series Modelling in the District of Colombo, Sri Lanka(International Postgraduate Research Conference 2019, Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2019) Udayanga, L.; Herath, K.; Gunanthilaka, N.; Iqbal, M.C.M.; Abeyewickreme, W.Timely implementation of intervention activities, is essential in controlling dengue epidemics. This requires the prediction of dengue epidemics, while respecting the spatial and temporal trends in dengue incidence. However, such aspects are limitedly focused in dengue epidemic management of Sri Lanka. Therefore, the current study was conducted to develop a temporal prediction model for dengue incidence in the district of Colombo in Sri Lanka. Dengue cases reported from 2000 to 2018 in the district of Colombo were collected from the Epidemiology Unit, Sri Lanka. Selected meteorological parameters such as number of rainy days, monthly cumulative rainfall, minimum and maximum relative humidity and temperature corresponding to the same study period were collected from the Department of Meteorology, along with the Oceanic Niño Index (ONI) from the National Oceanic and Administration (NOAA) Centre. All the data were arranged at monthly level. After evaluation of the normality, seasonality, stationarity and seasonal stationarity of the epidemic data, a Seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (SARIMA) model was fitted for the prediction of dengue by using the R statistical package. Subsequently, the meteorological factors and the dengue incidence was subjected to a cross correlation analysis to identify the most representative meteorological factors associated with dengue epidemic incidence and an Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average with Exogeneous Input (ARIMAX) model was fitted. The best fitted SARIMA (0, 1, 0) (3, 0, 0)12 model was characterized by an Akaike Information Criteria value (AIC) of -19.04, Bayesian information criterion (BIC) of -5.42, Mean error (ME) of 0.002 and Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of 0.518. According to the cross correlation analysis, number of rainy days (RD) and Oceanic Niño Index (ONI) denoted a significant negative association with the reported dengue cases in Colombo, while monthly cumulative rainfall (RF), maximum relative humidity (Max_RH), maximum temperature (Max_T) and minimum temperature (Min_T) shared a positive correlation (P < 0.05 at 95% level of confidence). The best fitting ARIMAX model (as indicated below) was characterized by an AIC of -15.74, BIC of -11. 2, ME of 0.006 and RMSE of 0.171. ARIMA (0, 1, 1) + [-0.0006 RDt-3 + 0.0008 RFt-3 + 0.0260 Max_RHt-3 + 0.0766 Min_Tt—4 - 0.0661 ONIt-5] Based on the performance, the ARIMAX model is recommended to be used for the prediction of dengue incidence in the Colombo district to ensure rational allocation of resources for vector control and dengue epidemic managementItem Germinability and Viability of Pollen of Selected Commercial Dendrobium Hybrids(International Postgraduate Research Conference 2019, Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2019) Kahagalla, T.H.; Herath, H.M.; Attanayake, R.N.; Senanayake, S.P.Dendrobium is one of the highly demanding ornamental orchid genera in Sri Lankan floriculture industry. The assessment of functional quality of the pollinium on the basis of germinability and viability is useful for the development of breeding programs for crop quality improvement and pollen storage protocols in conservation. This research was carried out to determine in vivo and in vitro pollen germinability and pollen viability of eight commercial Dendrobium hybrids (A-H). Percentage of pollen viability was studied by placing crushed pollinia on a cavity slide with 1% 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride solution and incubating at dark for 12 hours. Pollinia of Dendrobium flowers were placed on the stigma of the same flower on the second day after opening. After three days, pollinia were stained with lacto phenol cotton blue and percentage of in vivo pollen germination was calculated. In vitro pollen germination of the Dendrobium hybrids was studied in three different media. Pollinia were removed from the anthers on the second day after flower opening and placed in (i) 5%, 10%, 15%, 20% and 25% sucrose solutions and (ii) a semi solid medium containing 10% sucrose, 100 mgL-1 H3BO3, 300 mgL-1 Ca(NO3).2H2O, 200 mgL-1 MgSO4.7H2O, 200 mgL-1 KNO3, 8 gL-1 agar and stigmatic fluid of Dendrobium flower and incubated at room temperature. Pollinia of Dendrobium hybrids A, G and H placed in a (iii) semi solid medium containing 1%, 2%, 3% sucrose, 75 mgL-1 H3BO3 and 0.5%, 1%, 2% agar were incubated at 24 oC, 26 oC, and 28 oC. After 48 hours, percentage of in vitro pollen germination was calculated. Means were compared using one-way ANOVA with Tukey’s pairwise comparison test in IBM SPSS Statistics 22 software. As the percentage values of pollen germination and viability were not normally distributed, the values were transformed to arcsin square root values prior to statistical analysis. There was no significant deference in pollen viability of different hybrids which varied between 94% and 77%. The highest percentage of in vivo pollen germination was found in Dendrobium cultivar D (67%) and there was a significant deference in in vivo pollen germination among the hybrids. Correlation analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics 22 software to determine the relationship between pollen viability and in vivo pollen germination and found that there was no significant relationship (�= 0.237). The percentage of in vitro pollen germination was low and the highest in vitro pollen germination (7.2%) was observed in the semisolid medium containing 1% sucrose, 75 mgL-1 H3BO3, 1% agar and incubated at 26 oC for Dendrobium cultivar H.Item Entrepreneurship Development as a Strategy for Expansion of Employment Opportunities in the Rural Sector (With Special Reference to Kurunegala District)(International Postgraduate Research Conference 2019, Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2019) Bandara, H.G.K.N.Despite the fact that the past successive governments of Sri Lanka have been attempted to address the issue of rural unemployment through different strategies, unemployment and underemployment rates as well as the dependent population are still high in the rural sector of Sri Lanka. The salient feature of this problem is that the rate of unemployment and underemployment among the educated youth is higher than that of other groups. It is widely believed that Entrepreneurship development is a strategy that could support to overcome the persistent problem of unemployment in rural economies. Therefore, the present study focuses on the matter of how far successful Entrepreneurship Development programs that are being operated in Sri Lanka in coping with the problem of rural unemployment. The objectives of this study were, to identify the nature of unemployment in the rural Sri Lanka and to make a methodical assessment of the contribution of Entrepreneurship development programs with regard to the reduction of rural unemployment and underemployment. The relevant primary data for the study were collected through a field survey. Two structured questionnaires were employed to collect primary data from the selected sample. Secondary data were collected through a number of sources; mainly from the official publications of government departments and institutions. The sample was selected from the Kurunegala District and the sample included both unemployed and underemployed persons as well as young educated entrepreneurs who are in the Kurunegala District. Collected data were analyzed with the help of basic statistical methods such as percentages, tables, graphs and measures of central tendency. The study reveals that though there are many Entrepreneurship development programs have been implemented by the government of Sri Lanka, such programs have not been successful in dealing with the problem of rural unemployment due to lack of having proper awareness of the concept and insight into the matter. Therefore, Entrepreneurship Development programs should be designed in order to meet the needs of young, unemployed persons in the rural sector.Item Optimization of Irradiation Dose for Sterilization of Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus) Mosquitoes for Application of Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) Program in Sri Lanka(International Postgraduate Research Conference 2019, Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2019) Ranathunge, T.; Adikari, D.; Harishchandra, J.; Gunawardene, N.S.; Hapugoda, M.There is an increasing demand for exploration of the potential of applying sterile insect techniques (SIT) in area-wide integrated vector management (AW-IVM) in many countries. Sterility of male insects can be accomplished with ionizing irradiation and SIT focus on release of sufficient sterile male mosquitoes to induce sterility in the wild females which over time causes decline of the target mosquito population. Therefore, current study was focused on determining the effects of different doses of radiation on survival, flight ability and reproductive capacity of local strains of Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus) for SIT application in Sri Lanka. Adults Ae. aegypti were maintained under standard laboratory conditions at the Molecular Medicine Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka. Male pupae and female pupae were separated using a Fay and Morlan glass plate technique. A total of 100 male Ae. aegypti pupae were exposed to each different irradiation doses (40, 50, 60, 70 and 80 Gy) using Co60 source of gamma rays. Effects of irradiation on pupal mortality, flight ability, fertility and adult male survival were monitored under laboratory conditions. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to investigate the significance in the variations among observed factors. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was conducted to estimate the survival functions of irradiated males. The survival in relation to different radiation doses were compared using ANOVA followed by Tukey’s pairwise comparison. The survival of irradiated pupae was invariably greater than 90% in control- and in test groups and they did not differ significantly (P > 0.05). Irradiation had no significant adverse effects on the flight ability (capacity to fly out of a test device) of male mosquitoes, which consistently exceeded 90%. The fertility of female mated with irradiated male was significantly reduced in Ae. aegypti at all doses and zero fertility was observed at 70 and 80 Gy. Ae. aegypti, fertility in irradiated males mated with female was less than 1% at 50 and 60 Gy. The male mean survival time was reduced by irradiation in a dose-dependent manner. However, the mean survival time in control and sterilizing doses of 40, 50, 60 and 70 did not differ significantly (P > 0.05). Therefore, 50 Gy dose will be used as the optimal radiation dose Ae. aegypti population for future evaluations of SIT-based control. The results of the present study will be applied to studies of male sexual competitiveness and for stepwise evaluations of the SIT for suppression of Ae. aegypti population in Sri Lanka.Item Professional Development of Education Administrative Officers in Sri Lanka: A Sociological Analysis(International Postgraduate Research Conference 2019, Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2019) Jayaweera, S.; Karunathilake, K.The purpose of this paper is to investigate into salient features of professionalism which will be developed by Sri Lanka Education Administrative Officers in the government school education system and analyses causes and effects that can be identified among current education officers attached to Western Province in Sri Lanka towards a commonly accepted professionalism. Mixed methodology is used in this research study. Survey, Case study, Auto Ethnography, and Life stories are used as research methods. In addition, Traditional Model, Craft Model, Reflective Inquiry Approach, Mentoring, Reading and Journaling will be used as tools of assessing principal/ education officer professional development. Nature and constitution of the Sri Lanka Education Administrative Service (SLEAS) which comprises mainly recruitment procedure, pre-service induction training, capacity building training courses relating to the SLEAS officers and professional development of education officers in different countries will be considered as key variables in the investigation. A survey will be expected to be carried out in this research from quantitative perspective by using questionnaires, document surveys, and interviews will be employed to gather data. Furthermore, observation will be used throughout the data collection period being a member of SLEAS own experience earn for 15 years would be a valid ground for data gathering, analyzing and interpretation. The sample population consists of 110 education officers in Colombo, Gampaha and Kaluthara districts. The findings of the study will be urged policy makers and stakeholders of education system to revisit the concept of professional development programmes and leadership development in education administration officers who play a key role of education in primary and secondary education sector in Sri Lanka.Moreover, the overall results of the study will bring the intended benefits and to enhance the quality of education in Sri Lanka.Item Identification and Disease Assessment of Begomovirus Infecting Capsicum frutescens (Kochchi) in Minuwangoda, Sri Lanka(International Postgraduate Research Conference 2019, Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2019) Jayathilaka, S.A.S.D.; Wanigatunge, R.P.; Attanayake, R.N.; Edirisinghe, P.Leaf curl of Capsicum frutescens (Kochchi) is a common problem in many Capsicum growing regions of the country including Minuwangoda area in Gampaha. Water stress, poor soil drainage or viral infection are some of the potential causes of leaf curl. The main aim of the current study was to determine whether the leaf curl of Minuwangoda area is due to viral infection and to determine the disease severity and incidence of the region. A disease assessment key graded from 0 to 6 was developed for CLC disease of C. frutescens. Thirtytwo C. frutescens fields having more than 50 plants per field were selected. Disease symptoms, incidence and severity were recorded. Prominent symptoms of the disease were leaf curling, vein yellowing and leaf yellowing followed by severe chlorosis and stunting as the disease progressed. These symptoms were similar to the viral infection. The disease incidence varied from 0 to 100% in the selected fields and 71.88% of the fields in Minuwangoda area were affected. Disease severity in the selected fields ranged from 0 to 6, while the average disease severity of the fields in the area was 1.3. To determine whether the causal agent is a commonly reported virus of the family Begomoviridae, coat protein (CP) gene was amplified from the DNA extracted from infected leaves using CP specific primers and the sequencing was done using the Sanger sequencing method. Sequence alignment with the NCBI database showed a 95% similarity to Chilli leaf curl virus (Begomoviridae) isolate CL-14 from Nochchiyagama. Results indicates that Sri Lankan C. frutescens cultivation could be challenged by the viral infection and control measures should be implemented as soon as possible.Item Awareness of Rickettsial Infections (Typhus Fever) in a High Endemic Community in Hambantota District, Sri Lanka(International Postgraduate Research Conference 2019, Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2019) Ashani, M.L.S.; Chandrasena, T.G.A.N.; Gunathilaka, P.A.G.N.; Premaratna, B.A.H.R.Rickettsial infections are re-emerging in Sri Lanka with an average annual incidence of 1500 patients. Low awareness and the scarcity of proper diagnostic tools has resulted in delayed disease diagnosis and negligence towards the disease leading to extended morbidity in Sri Lanka. Community awareness of the disease is important for timely diagnosis and control. Hambantota district in Southern Province of Sri Lanka, which records the fourth highest incidence of typhus, was selected for the study. Households (n= 204) situated around index cases of typhus fevers were randomly selected for the survey. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to gather data on illness awareness (disease aetiology, symptoms, transmission, disease associations) by selecting a consenting representative from each household. Descriptive and inferential analysis of the data was carried out using SPSS IBM statistical software. Of the 204 interviewed, only one (0.5%) identified the illness as “typhus”. Majority identified the disease as “Peacock fever” (43.12%; n= 88) followed by “tick fever” (14.71%; n=30). It is interesting to note that 41.67% (n=85) of the households were not aware of the disease even though they are living in a disease endemic area. None were aware of the etiological agents of typhus fever. Among those with awareness, 65.55% (n=78), believed that infection was tick-borne and the vector ticks were harbored by peacocks. About 27.73% (n=33) believed that the transmission was directly from peacocks, followed by other birds (2.52%; n=3). Majority 82.35 %, (n=98) were unaware of symptomatology while only 1.77%, (n=14) recognized it only as a febrile illness and myalgia (4.20%; n=5). Of those who were aware, 73.95 %, (n=88) had received information through acquaintances, 25.21% (n=30) from health personnel and one through mass media. None were aware of preventive measures. The results of the present study highlight the lack of proper awareness of the disease condition, which may adversely impact on disease control effortsItem Using Logistic Regression to Estimate the Influence of Environmental Factors on Motor Cycle Road Crash Severity(International Postgraduate Research Conference 2019, Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2019) Liyanage, L.The field of transportation has undergone a massive growth with the immense development that occurred with the industrialization. But as a side effect, a huge increase in road accidents can be depicted. It has become one of the leading causes of death and injury in Sri Lanka. Nowadays, the rate of incidence of traffic accidents is increasing severely. Much against the popular belief, it is the light vehicles that are most often causing traffic accidents. Each year over 35752 road accidents occur in Sri Lanka, causing on average eight fatalities every day. In every year the highest numbers of deaths occurred with motorcyclists. There are various factors which are related to motorcycle road accidents. So this study was carried out to find the factors influencing the severity of the motorcycle accidents in Sri Lanka. This study was based on the records of the Traffic Police Head Office, Colombo. 171493 motorcycle accident cases were considered during the period 2008-2017. Logistic Regression was used to estimate the severity of factors related to road. The logistic regression model is the most common model for data analysis when the dependent variable is in binary nature. It is normally used to study the association between a binary dependent variable and a group of the continuous or categorical independent variable. The response can take the values 1 or 0. The variable “Nature of the Accident” (Fatal/Non-fatal) is considered as a dichotomous variable, and the factors road surface, weather condition and the light condition are treated as influencing factors on the accident severity. After a series of statistical analyses were conducted, all of the independent variables were identified as influential variables to the accident severity. But as none of the four variables was included in the equation, there were no coefficients for them. Rather, dummy variables which code for each and every independent variable are in the equation, and those have coefficients. Of the road surface variable, two categories namely wet road surface and the slippery road surface were found to be significantly associated with the outcome of the dependent variable. Dry road surface and the road flooded with water were not statistically significant. Of the weather condition variable, two categories were found to be significantly associated with the outcome of the dependent variable namely rainy weather and the fog/mist weather. Clear and cloudy weather was not statistically significant. Of the light condition variable, three categories were found to be significantly associated with the outcome of the dependent variable namely daylight, no light at the night and the improper light at the night. Dusk/ Dawn and good street light at night were not statistically significant. Results from this study reveal that the fitted logistic regression model can be used for the safety improvements against the motorcycle road accidents in Sri LankaItem Use of Chronemics: Ethical Considerations of the Process of Communication in the Family(International Postgraduate Research Conference 2019, Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2019) Jayarathna, R.N.H.M.D.Appearing for a one out of seven codes of non verbal signals, ‘chronemics, represents the use of time as a message system such as punctuality, amount of time spent with another and waiting time. As it is a component which is accountable to the quality of the process of communication, the use of ‘chronemics’ is substantially liable upon the emergence of ethics in the society. In an any social situation, one’s communication is massively influenced by related family. In this context, considering the process of communication in the family, this study aimed two objectives as the major one was to identify a common code of ethics in use of ‘chronemics’ and the other specific one was to identify attributed values of the use of chronemics. The mixed research methodology was applied though qualitative data were cared prominent. Interviews were used as the main instrument of data collection while the observation was present too. Only for this study, the families were categorized into five groups under a simple socio-economic criterion; by names the families represent ancient folk, rural elites’ ancestry, modern middle class, modern rural folk, and modern town folk. Allowing five families to belong to each group, sum of twenty five families in Kurunegala district were randomly selected as the sample. Two indicators of ‘chronemics’ namely ‘spending time with another’ and ‘waiting time’ were concerned. Likewise the both indicators equally proclaimed the extra ordinary complexity of the use of chronemics, they revealed that there’s an identifiable difference between the particular use within family members and with aliens. ‘Spending time with another’ is more effectively applicable when communicating with an alien but it creates ethical issues if use against the family members. Although ‘the waiting time’ for a family member is various due to intra family kinship, the lowest ‘waiting time’ in it is obviously higher than the ‘waiting time’ kept for any outsider. Both indicators show some variations in practice according to the family category but more families revealed even attitudes about the particular use of ‘chronemics’ though the practice doesn’t represent it properly. Conclusion made by the attitudes of the sample families as a qualitative analysis was done stating that there are more common ethics in the use of ‘chronemics’ where in the process of communication in the familyItem Evaluation of the Survival of Dendrobium crumenatum Swartz. Pollen Stored at Different Temperatures(International Postgraduate Research Conference 2019, Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2019) Silva, W.E.R.; Attanayake, R.; Ratnayake, S.; Senanayake, S.P.Dendrobiums have a high demand in the Sri Lankan floriculture industry as cut flowers and potted plants. Most Dendrobium cultivars found in the Sri Lankan market are imported from countries like Thailand, Singapore and Malaysia. Development of new cultivars and commercial cultivation of orchids has become a billion-dollar profitable industry in the world. In order to uplift the local orchid industry, cultivars with Sri Lankan identity should be developed. As Sri Lankan Dendrobiums have high floral diversity with economically important characters like fragrance, patterns and shapes, such characters could be introduced to the popular cultivars through breeding programs. Pollinia of these species and cultivars may not be always available throughout the year. Therefore, a suitable pollen storage method that maintains pollen viability and germinability, should be developed. The objective of this study was to develop a pollen preservation technique for Dendrobium crumenatum (E: Pigeon orchid, S: Sudu pareyi mal) by storing at different temperatures in order to use them in breeding programs. Pollen were collected into 0.2 mL tubes from fully opened fresh flowers at the onset of the anthesis around 7.00 – 8.00 am in July 2019. A set of pollen was dried in silica for 24 hours before storage and the other set was directly stored at -80 °C, -20 °C, -1 °C, 9 °C and 28 °C temperatures. Cryopreservation of pollen at -80 °C and -20 °C were also conducted in modified Murashige and Skoog medium (pH 5.7). Treatments were performed in triplicates. Samples of stored pollen were removed after 1, 3, 7, 14, 30 and 60 days and in vitro germinability and viability were tested in 10% sucrose and 2,3,5-Triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) respectively. To confirm pollen viability and germinability, pollen of D. crumenatum stored at 9 °C were used in controlled cross pollination with Dendrobium ‘Pink Stripe,’ Dendrobium ‘Sonia Red’ and Dendrobium ‘Pink New Splash’. D. crumenatum had 54.97±12.22 % germinability and 76.0±4.58 % viability prior to storage. Pollen stored at subzero temperatures or subjected to cryopreservation lost viability and germinability. Pollen stored at 9 °C without drying, were viable for 14 days and produced pollen tubes (8.63±0.71 %). Although, percent in vitro germination of D. crumenatum pollen reduced to less than 20% after 7 days of storage (19.57±6.55 %) at 9 °C, pollination of stored pollen resulted in fruit set in Dendrobium ‘Pink Stripe,’ and Dendrobium ‘Pink New Splash’. This study found that seasonally flowering D. crumenatum pollen can be stored for short periods at 9 °C while maintaining their viability and germinability and can be used for cross pollination in breeding programs. However, subzero temperatures and cryopreservation may not be appropriate for storage of D. crumenatum pollenItem Dengue Encephalitis with Concurrent Infections by Multiple Dengue Virus Serotypes(International Postgraduate Research Conference 2019, Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2019) Jayarathne, J.A.J.C.; Wijesinghe, W.A.T.A.; Mendis, S.; Waidyasekara, J.; Gunathilaka, P.A.D.H.N.; Gunasekara, D.Dengue is a serious public health problem caused by an arbovirus. Abnormal-neurological presentations associated with dengue infection is rare. Herewith, we report a case of a patient with dengue encephalitis who was concurrently infected with multiple serotypes. A 36-year-old, male resident from Poogoda presented to North Colombo Teaching Hospital with a history of generalized tonic-clonic seizures (GTCS) and unconsciousness. On admission, he displayed only a persisting headache. He had no significant illnesses in the past. Detailed history revealed that he has had a fever and left the hospital against the medical advice on the same day. On clinical examination, he was afebrile and blood pressure was 110/80 mmHg. He was well oriented with a Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) of 15/15 and there was no focal neurological deficit. The funduscopic examination was normal. His initial full blood count revealed a rise in white blood cells with a predominant elevation of neutrophils of 12.44 x 103/uL. His platelet count was reported to be 306 x103/uL and, he was treated for a bacterial infection. On the following day, the patient started developing a fever and GTCS. Aggressive behavior, confusion, and delirium were also demonstrated. Neck stiffness was not observed. Non-contrast computed tomography (NCCT) scan, contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) scan, chest X-ray scan and magnetic resonance image (MRI) of the brain were normal. Electroencephalography (EEG) revealed encephalopathy with non-epileptic discharge. Lumbar puncture was performed on the third day of admission and analysis of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was unremarkable. IgM antibody for the dengue virus (DENV) was detected in CSF. All the other viral and parasitological studies were normal. The patient was treated with anti-epileptic, anti-psychotic, antibacterial and antiviral drugs. High fever spikes and seizures were continued. GCS started to deteriorate from 9/15 to 3/15. Urine out-put started to decline. Ultra-sound scanning revealed mild ascites. Blood picture analysis showed evidence of having a severe bacterial infection. On day 9, both CSF and serum specimens were referred to Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, Ragama for dengue viral investigations. The presence of NS-1 antigen, IgM/IgG antibodies, and the occurrence of concurrent infections with serotype 2 and 3 in the serum sample confirmed that the patient was infected with DENV. The presence of IgM/IgG antibodies were observed in the CSF sample. On day 10, the patient was transferred to the medical intensive care unit and monitored thoroughly. As the condition was deteriorated, he was ventilated and incubated for 11 days in the intensive care unit. He started to recover gradually after the 31st day. On day 36, the patient was discharged without any residual neurological symptoms. The patient is currently being followed up at the neurological clinic. Dengue encephalitis is a rare and deleterious manifestation of dengue infection. It is believed that concurrent infections with multiple serotypes and serotype replacement may cause disease severity. Therefore, reporting uncommon cases will provide insights for the physicians in early diagnosis and effective managementItem Assessment of Awareness and Socio – Economic Status on Edible Oil Consumption among Housewives in Dehiwala Divisional Secretariat Area(International Postgraduate Research Conference 2019, Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2019) Manori, H.A.C.; Jayasekara, K.G.T.Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) prevail in the present-day society due to unhealthy food habits and inactive lifestyle of the people. Excessive consumption of edible oil is a cause for obesity which is a contributory factor for NCDs. Edible oils should be used in moderation by adopting proper methods of cooking to minimize their unhealthy effects. A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in Dehiwala divisional secretariat area to assess the awareness, socio-economic status on edible oil consumption among housewives and, the individual’s fat intake through edible oil consumption. Since, the total fat intake of an individual includes fats received from coconut kernel, processed coconut milk and coconut milk powder used in food preparations, in addition to edible oils, fats coming from these food items were also considered in calculating the daily per capita fat intake. The study sample consisted of 405 randomly selected housewives representing all the fifteen Grama Niladari divisions of the area including 27 housewives from each division. Data were gathered using a self-administered questionnaire. Results showed that daily per capita edible oil consumption was 59.75 ml. Only 31.50% housewives consumed edible oils, within the recommended level of fat and oil intake per person as in Food based dietary guidelines for Sri Lankans, prepared by the Ministry of Health. The daily per capita fat intake by consuming edible oil together with coconut kernel, processed coconut milk and coconut milk powder was 80.13 g. 77.75% housewives used edible oils and coconut products in food preparations to receive energy more than the amount of energy recommended to be received from fat (no more than 30% of the total energy coming from fat). Chi-square test results showed that there were significant relationships between educational level of housewives and the type of edible oil used (p<0.01) and monthly family income and the type of edible oil used (p<0.01). Since, the majority of the individuals consume more fat than the recommended level, there is a need for an intervention to educate people on healthy use of edible oil as to prevent from obesity, a contributory factor of NCDs.