Staff Development Center Research Forum

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Bile Reflux and Quality of Life after Retro gastric Retro colic Gastrojejunostomy in Whipple Procedure
(Staff Development Center, University of Kelaniya, 2015) Siriwardhana, R.
Introduction: Whipple surgery is a complex procedure done for pancreatic cancer. Main problem in long term survivors is delayed gastric emptying and bile reflux which is to cause chronic gastritis, gastric ulcers, reflux oesophagitis and Barrett’s oesophagus As our preferred technique we have adapted a technique of performing retro colic posterior gastrojejunostomy over the last 2 years. In this technique the small bowel loop is anastomosed to the posterior wall of the stomach. Then the distal stomach with the gastro jejunostomy is pulled through a window in the transverse mesocolon and anchored. This study was designed to assess the macro and microscopic outcome. Methods: All patients who had undergone Whipple procedure from June 2012 to June 2014 will be included. Patients with recurrence, ones who had chemotherapy within last three months, and ones who have undergone the surgery within the last 3 months will be excluded. Informed written consent will be obtained All will undergo endoscopy observing the appearance of gastric mucosa and severity of bile reflux objectively. Five punch-biopsy specimens will be taken from the stomach in accordance to the recommended biopsy sites. Specimens will be fixed and stained in H & E and modified Giemsa stains. Bile reflux index (BRI) will be calculated using a standard formula. Severity of dyspeptic symptoms will be calculated with the “Nepean Dyspepsia Index- Short form (NDI-SF)” Questionnaire. Based on the findings we will be able to objectively evaluate the clinical and histological outcome of the procedure.
A Critical Inquiry into the Concept of Art
(Staff Development Center, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2015) Piyananda Thero, Wilgamuwe
Art is the medium of entertainment which should be experienced within an awaken mind. There are various forms of art including drama, poetry, music, sculpture, dance, literature, films etc. The modern day scholars have classified all these forms of art into numerous categories such as Visual Arts, Auditory Arts, Verbal Arts, Mix Arts, Fine Arts and Applied Arts. All these forms of art used for the same purpose, i.e. providing an aesthetic experience in order to heighten the wisdom. Various factors and incidences in society make contributions for a production of art to be made. Among them, people's life styles, beliefs, religion, the need to address the mental excitements of artists and environmental as well as geo-political factors are of enormous importance. Hence, it could be safely argued that a production of art is inevitable a property of the whole society and that such productions of art should address the conditions of the contemporary society. Since, art is one of the most important moving factors of culture, any study of the historical background of any country could not disregard art. Even though the primary purpose of art is to enlighten the mind, it appears that in the present society, it is primarily used only for personal satisfaction and entertainment. Given this background, the present study seeks to inquire into the phenomenon of art in a comprehensive way especially with regard to the functions and purpose of art and the ways in which forms of art could be used for the betterment of the society.
The decline of Instrumental fields in music Education in Sri Lankan Universities
(Staff Development Center, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2015) Vaheesan, T.
Background: This survey is based on Swami Vipulananda Institute of Aesthetic studies. In university department of music subject like, Vocal music, Violin, Mruthangam and Veena are taught and special degree in the fine Arts is given in special (course) subjects and Bachelor of fine Arts degree is given to them. In these fields many students follow courses to these music fields about 70 to 80 students are admitted. Among them, most of the students choose vocal music instead of Violin, Miruthangam, Veena fields. When we consider the music field, the musical instruments also play a major role. Music is praised to be equal to God (PanchapakesaIyer, 1953) while considering Carnatic music, it not only includes Vocal music, it includes instrumental music as well. Any music which sanctifies it with swarams and varnams and give a pleasant feeling to the ear, is a sacred music (Ramanuja Iyangar, 1986)In today’s musical world instruments not only remain as helping instruments like veena and violin have become so popular as to conduct main music recitals Music is beyond language (Sundaraam1993). Its soul depends on composing music. Aim: Aim of this study is creating awareness among the students to take this subject as their main field and increasing number of students to select this field as well as Artist. Methodology: The first year music students who learn music at Swami Vipulananda Institute of Aesthetic students were selected for this research. The questionnaire was given to them and the answers got from them. Besides this discussions were conducted among them regarding the selection of subjects. Results: For this survey while having discussions with the students and giving questions to them and getting answers from them many students have showed their liking to select Instrumental music fields but while considering job opportunities they select vocal music even though it is against their course of study they expect to get jobs in vocal music fields. Conclusion: The Instrumental such as Violin, Miruthangam, veena subjects must be included in the school. That will be increase the Instrumental artists same as music artists.
Implementing Newborn Hearing Screening at the University Pediatric Unit of the North Colombo Teaching Hospital, Ragama
(Staff Development Center, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2015) Chandrasekara, J.M.A.U.; Jayasena, B.N.; Illeperuma, D.; de Silva, D.; Chathurika, E.
Background and rationale:Hearing loss is a multifaceted condition with profound medical, social, and cultural implications (Smith et al., 2005). If hearing loss is not detected in infancy, it can lead to delayed speech and language acquisition, impaired social and emotional development and poor academic performance. Adverse consequences of late detection is minimized when hearing is screened by as early as 1 month of age. However, very few state sector hospitals in Sri Lanka implement hearing screening. Hence it is essential that newborn hearing screening programmes are implemented in a wider scale. Aim: This study aims to initiate a newborn hearing screening programme at the North Colombo Teaching Hospital, Ragama by identifying hearing impairment among all newborn well-babies and the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) babies-University Pediatric Unit. Conceptual framework: The Joint Committee on Infant Hearing (JCIH) recommends a 1-3-6 benchmark on infant hearing. This includes screening hearing of all newborns no later than 1 month of age; those not passing screening to have a diagnostic hearing evaluation no later than 3 months of age; infants with confirmed hearing loss to receive appropriate intervention no later than 6 months of age(JCIH, 2007). Proposed Methodology: Hearing screening will be conducted using Otoacoustic Emission (OAE) for well-babies and a combination of OAE and Auditory brainstem Response (ABR) for babies admitted to the NICU. Those who fail the initial screenwill be rescreened at no later than 1 month of age. Those who fail the rescreen will be referred for detailed audiological evaluation by 3 months of age. The gathered data will be subjected to descriptive and inferential statistics. Expected outcomes: The proposed study will provide an initiative step towards including newborn hearing screening as a compulsory component to the hospital’s newborn care services.
Impact of Job Satisfaction on Job Performance with Reference to Public Banks in Sri Lanka
(Staff Development Center, University of Kelaniya, 2015) Jayarathna, S.M.D.Y.
To attain a competitive advantage and remain in the competitive market, organizations should focus on the employee job satisfaction and job performance. Job Satisfaction is one of the most significant attitudes of the employees of an organization and it describes whether the employees are happy, asserted, and fulfilling their desires and needs at work. The organizations are challenged, as they have to make the employee’s satisfied in their job. So, they will perform better and consequently organization will achieve their competitive edge. Thus, achieving job performance of the employees has been significant for both private and public organizations. Hence, it is needed to investigate how the satisfaction of the employees of the public banks affects the job performance of their employees. As such, the objective of this research is to investigate the impact of job satisfaction on job performance of the public banks in Colombo District. The independent variable of the study is job satisfaction and the dependent variable is job performance. The reliability of the instruments are to be tested against the survey data. This study focuses on hypothesis testing and is a correlational study. The research is to be conducted in the natural environment where work proceeds normally, with less interference of the researchers (non contrived setting). Data will be collected from individuals: employees of the public banks, and the study is cross sectional. The population of the study will be Managerial, Executive and Non Executive employees in the public banks operating in Colombo district of Sri Lanka. It is expected to collect data by distributing from 400 self administered anonymous questionnaires. Data used for the analysis will be primary data. The analysis will be done by simple regression models using the software SPSS 20.0.
Devolution of Power, Gender and Female Representation in Provincial Councils in Sri Lanka: Special References with Southern Provincial Council
(Staff Development Center, University of Kelaniya, 2015) Damayanthi, M.K.N.
Reduce or avoid gender based discrimination and gender issues, equity and high level of participation are some of key expectations of the power devolution. To fulfil the requirement of power devolution the Provincial Councils were established in 1987 in according to the Thirteenth Amendment to the Constitution of Sri Lanka. However, from the initial stage of the Provincial Councils, it shows that fewer number of female representatives were included in the nomination list and negligible number of females were elected. Major objective of this study is to examine the present scenario of the female representation in Provincial Council system and examine factors affecting on less female representation in Provincial Councils. This study limits to Southern Provincial Council election in 2014. Data collected through official sources of the Election Commissioner General, questionnaire survey on randomly selected voters in Gonapeenuwal Divisional Secretariat Division in Galle District and interviews with randomly selected politicians in Southern Provincial Council. Study results shows that, 9 percent of the female candidates were include in nomination lists of the number of parties and contest for the 2014 Provincial Council election in Southern Province. However, only 1.8 percent (01) female representative was selected as a member of Southern Provincial Council. As revealed by the field survey, proportional electoral system, political system, media campaign specially social media campaign, cultural and social barriers and image of the candidates were negatively influence in female representatives in Southern Provincial Council election in 2014.
Correlation of Ligand Donicity with Catalytic Activity in a Series of Gold (I) Carbene and Phosphine Complexes
(Staff Development Center, University of Kelaniya, 2015) Mathota Arachchige, Y.L.N.; Slaughter, L.M.
Catalytic activities of transition metal complexes are influenced by both steric and electronic effects arising from ancillary ligands. In the case of linear gold (I) complexes, the available evidence suggests that ligand electronic effects are more important. However, available methods to investigate the donor abilities of ligands are not easily conducted with gold (I) complexes. In this study, the donor abilities of selected carbene ligands, including N-heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs), abnormal N-heterocyclic carbenes (aNHCs), and acyclic diaminocarbenes (ADCs), as well as phosphine ligands, at a gold (I) center were studied. Methyl isocyanide adducts and 1,3- diisopropylbenzimidazolin-2-ylidene (i Pr2-bimy) adducts of a series of gold complexes were synthesized as IR probes and 13C NMR probes, respectively. The gold-catalyzed intramolecular cyclization of alkynes, which is known to be accelerated by strong donor ligands, showed an inverse relationship between the Δν of the MeNC IR probe and the reaction rate. The same trend was observed with the 13C NMR probe, but the MeNC IR probes gave a better correlation with catalytic rates. Explanations of the observed donicity trends in terms of bonding effects will be discussed.
Sri Lankan University Students’ Smartphone usage to enhance Their Educational and Skill Development and the Features (Apps) Used by them
(Staff Development Center, University of Kelaniya, 2015) Jayawardhana, K.G.L.A.N.S.
A smartphone (or smart phone) is a mobile phone with more advanced computing capability and connectivity than basic feature phones. By now, smart phone has become indispensable tool for university students as it facilitates and assists their learning process and the day to day life as well. The development of mobile wireless technologies has generated a considerable amount of excitement among university students and academics because it results in shifting the academic environment from traditional settings to mobile learning (m-learning) settings. So the researcher is going to conduct a research on “Sri Lankan University Students’ Smartphone usage to enhance Their Educational and Skill Development and the Features (Apps) Used by them” based on five research questions as How Smart Phone usage facilitate Sri Lankan University Students’ day to day life? To which extent Sri Lankan University Students use Smart Phones to enhance their Educational development? What are the features (apps) use to enhance their Educational development? To which extent Sri Lankan University Students use Smart Phones to enhance their skill development? & what are the apps use to enhance their skill development? And the objectives of the study is to find out how Smart Phone usage facilitate Sri Lankan University Students’ day to day life , to find out to which extent Sri Lankan University Students use Smart Phones to enhance their Educational Development, to find out what are the features (apps) use to enhance their Educational development, to find out which extent Sri Lankan University Students use Smart Phones to enhance their skill development, & to find out what are the apps use to enhance their skill development. To achieve these objectives, primary data will be collected through Questionnaires and the secondary data will be collected through books, newspapers, web sources and Publications. Three hundred (300) questionnaires will be given to randomly selected group (20 university students from each fifteen (15) State Universities in Sri Lanka (Eastern University of Sri Lanka, University of Colombo, University of Kelaniya, University of Peradeniya, University of Sri Jayawardhanapura, University of Moratuwa, University of Rajarata, University of Ruhuna, Open University of Sri Lanka, University of Visual and Performing Arts, Sabaragamuwa University, Wayamba University, South Eastern University of Sri Lanka, University of Uva Wellassa, and University of Jaffna.)
Characterization of the Temperate Phage vB_RleM_PPF1 and its Site-Specific Integration into the Genome of Rhizobium leguminosarum Strain F1
(Staff Development Center, University of Kelaniya, 2015) Halmillawewa, A.P.; Restrepo-Córdoba, M.; Perry, B.J.; Yost, C.K.; Hynes, M.F.
The presence of prophages in a genome can contribute in increasing the bacterial fitness and ecological success in an environment that contains closely related phages. The temperate phage PPF1 was isolated from a lysogenized strain of Rhizobium leguminosarum F1. The complete genome sequence of Myoviridae phage PPF1 was determined using 454-Pyrosequencing technology. PPF1 is the first available complete genome sequence of a Rhizobium leguminosarum temperate phage (GenBank accession no: KJ746502) and the integration site and possible mechanism of integration of this phage has been identified. PPF1 is capable of efficiently lysogenizing the R. leguminosarum strain F1, and can be induced from its lysogenized host using UV irradiation. The genome of PPF1 is 54,506 bp in length with an average G+C content of 61.9%. The ORF predictions of the PPF1 genome revealed the presence of 94 putative proteinencoding genes and 74.5% of these predicted ORFs share homology at the protein level with previously reported sequences in the database. However, putative functions could only be assigned to 25.5% (24 ORFs) of the predicted genes. The site-specific recombination system of the phage targets an integration site that lies within a putative tRNA-Pro (CGG) gene in R. leguminosarum F1. Upon integration, the phage is capable of restoring the disrupted tRNA gene, owing to the 50 bp homologous sequence (att core region) it shares with its rhizobial host genome. The predicted att site of temperate phage PPF1 share a sequence similarity with the targeted att site of previously characterized Sinorhizobium meliloti phage 16-3. In spite of phage PPF1's propensity for lysogenizing host strains, including strains on which it does not form visible plaques, there has thus far been no evidence of the presence of similar phages integrated into completed genomes of R. leguminosarum and related phages. The site specificity of insertion of this phage could be used to create single copy integration vectors for genetic work in R. leguminosarum.
Modeling snakebite risk in Sri Lankan community
(Staff Development Center, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2015) Ediriweera, D.S.
Background and rationale Snakebite is considered as a neglected tropical disease (WHO, n.d.). Sri Lanka has one of the highest snakebite incidence (SBI) rates in the world and according to hospital statistics about 37,000 patients are admitted to government hospitals annually as a result of snakebite (Kasturiratne et al., 2005; Kasturiratne et al., 2008). Incidence data are usually modeled with the use of generalized linear models. The aim of the present study is to develop a snakebite risk model for Sri Lanka. Methodology Incidence data was obtained from “National Snakebite Study”. Generalized additive and linear models were considered to model snakebite incidence. Individual-level variables namely gender, age, ethnicity, religion, income, education and employment were considered as explanatory variables. The goodness of fit statistics and standardized residuals of the fitted model were used to assess the model fit. Empirical variogram was calculated on standardized residuals to determine spatial dependence. Statistical analysis used the R programming language. Results In the fitted generalized linear model, age was considered in quadratic form; gender, employment, ethnicity, and income were considered as factor variables, with significant interaction was noted between ethnicity and income groups. The goodness of fit statistics showed fitted model is adequate to represent snakebite incidence data. According to the fitted model, highest snakebite risk groups were 30 to 59 years age group, males, field workers, low-income non-Sinhalese and Sinhalese compared to middle-income and high-income non-Sinhalese. Map of the standardized residuals of the fitted model, at each sampled locations showed, visually identifiable geographical pattern in the standardized residuals of the fitted model. Empirical variogram calculation on the standardized residuals showed the presence of spatial dependence. Discussion and conclusions Although the fitted model was good enough to represent snakebite incidence data, underline geographical distribution of snakebite incidence was not represented. Further spatial analysis is needed to be done to model snakebite incidence in Sri Lanka community.
A study on the usage of Facebook for propagation of Buddhism
(Staff Development Center, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2015) Pagngnaloka Thero, K. ubugoda Are
In the 6th century B.C The Buddha who attaint establishment propagate his philosophy for 45 years. The preaching method was used to spread at the philosophy by the Buddha and under of propagative methods was used to spread at Buddhism thereafter. At the present, communication in the world has been become to its top level and intents is one of the sophisticated gated tools of communication by now. According to the study Problems are Lack of responsibility, Wrong information through take accounts, Difficulty to regulate and limit. Therefore, It can be concluded that it will be effective to used Facebook to propagate Buddhism if the problems can be diminished Social websites has become more faster and wider communicative took and Facebook, created by monk shorebird in 2004, can be identified as a famous social network at the moment to more than 900 million members are there in face book by 1st December 2015 with 1.5 million Sri Lankan members approximately .About 24000Sri Lankan Facebook accounts was been considered as take ones Face book accounts related to Buddhism can be with the sensed of propagating Buddhism can be categorized into 3 groups 1. Fully functioning as Buddhist face book accounts 2. Moderately functioning as a Buddhist 3. Least functioning as Buddhist Furthermore, 7 major methodologies can be distinguished that are used to propagate Buddhism on Facebook, Posters or images, Videos, Auditors, Dhamma books downloads, Dhamma Articles, Comparative studies Scientific findings on Buddhism. This post on face seems very interesting and attractive. Numbers of such post are at high level. Therefor it is clear that Facebook is used for propagating Buddhism in Sri Lanka by now. Here, It is mentioned some suggestions problems encountered with any research following 01. Creating new Facebook accounts dedication to Buddhism 02. Creation English and Tamil medium accounts 03. Take the utmost opportunities to propagate Buddhism face book. After that Buddhism can be communicated though face book.
Value Relevance of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) in Sri Lankan Listed Companies
(Staff Development Center, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2015) Senani, K.G.P.
Background : Accounting was well known as a record keeping method and then evolved up to a decision making tool. Therefore information which is generated through a systematic process plays a vital role in decision making process, known as value relevance information. Accounting standards direct the accounting function and IFRSs were implemented to have consistency of that information around the world. Sri Lanka transformed from Sri Lanka Accounting Standards to IFRS since 01st January 2012. Studies from many countries have been focused to measure the value relevance with their transformation and concluded with different results. Hence this study will be a value creating study in Sri Lankan context. Aim : Accordingly this study attempts to identify the value relevance of IFRS adoption in Sri Lankan listed companies. Conceptual Framework : This study will evaluate the value relevance of IFRS adoption in Sri Lankan listed companies. Therefore accounting information is taken as the independent information and market price is considered as the dependent variable. Year-end book value per share and earnings per share are used as the value relevant accounting information and share price at the date of publishing annual reports to the public is taken as the market value. Size, growth and leverage of organisations are considered as control variables which could have an impact on share price other than accounting information. Proposed Methodology : Population of the study consists 294 companies which is the total number of companies listed in Colombo stock exchange as at 05th August 2015 and 167 companies are qualified for the sample. Study period covers five years from 2010/11 to 2014/15 which is divided into two namely pre-adoption period and post-adoption period to the IFRS implementation. Study will execute price model in valuation to express the impact of accounting information to the market value and the explanatory power of this model will be compared for above two periods. Expected Outcome : The findings of this study will be beneficial for the users of accounting information in common and specially for the investors who are mainly depend on available information. Further study will be useful for regulators to measure the effectiveness of this implementation in Sri Lankan context.
Culture in Translation: Shyam Selvadurei’s Funny Boy in Sinhala and French
(Staff Development Center, University of Kelaniya, 2015) Jayawardena, H.S.M.M.
Shyam Selvadurei is one of the better known writers in English of the Sri Lankan Diaspora. Funny Boy, his first novel was translated in to French by Frédéric Limare and Susan Fox-Limare in 1998. The Sinhala translation was published later in 2002, translated by Sugathapala de Silva. Selvadurei’s style of writing is heavily influenced by the variety of English spoken in Sri Lanka, his mother tongue Tamil, Sinhala and Sri Lankan culture which explains the necessity of the glossary included in the novel. The object of the present paper is to examine how these cultural elements are translated in to two different languages. Both translations were analyzed to identify strategies and techniques used by the translators. The French translators targeted an audience who are familiar neither with the Sri Lankan context nor its languages where as the Sinhala translator has translated a novel, though written in English is placed in a more familiar context. The translators have chosen different strategies in their respective translations. The French translators have attempted to make certain cultural elements explicit to its target audience, by including a glossary, footnotes, and strategies such as adaptation. Equivalence was a strategy used in both translations, especially in translating idiomatic expressions and proverbs. The Sinhala translator has not provided footnotes, glossary or explanations. Many terms were not translated but were given in English in the Sinhala translation. The translation reflects the bilingualism practiced by Sri Lankans. As a strategy, it also highlights the dominance of the English language and the Western culture in the Sri Lankan context. The French and the Sinhala translators ‘domesticate’ their work and however, their strategies vary depending on the chosen target audience and its linguistic context.
Clinical reasoning and its challenges at workplace: A qualitative study with novice medical graduates in Sri Lanka
(Staff Development Center, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2015) Karunaratne, W.C.D.; Chandratilake, M.B.N.; Marambe, K.
Background and rationale: Clinical reasoning is a major determinant of clinical competence among medical professionals (Barrows & Feltovich, 1987). However, even after 40 years of research, diverging opinions still persist on the diagnostic decision making process adopt by medical professionals proving the complexed nature of the phenomenon (Eva, 2004). Aim: This study aims to explore how novice medical graduates working at four main clinical specialties (medicine, surgery, paediatrics and obstetrics & gynaecology) learn and perform clinical reasoning during internship training and the challenges encountered. Theoretical underpinning: Theories of diagnostic decision making range from hypotheticodeductive reasoning described in 1970’s to the dual process theory, discussed recently in the medical education literature (Norman, 2005; Pelaccia, Tardif, Triby, & Charlin, 2011). Proposed methodology: Interpretive paradigm research using phenomenology will be conducted on novice medical graduates working in medicine, paediatric, surgery and obstetrics & gynaecology wards at the North Colombo Teaching Hospital, Ragama, Sri Lanka. The study will be conducted in two phases using purposive sampling (a combined total of 16) with gender balance and equal representation of specialties. During the study each participant will undergo three (3) interviews. The first interview will be on their experience of clinical reasoning as an intern and the challenges faced. The subsequent two interviews are based on audio-recorded patient encounters using the technique of stimulated recall. Two experts from each specialty will review the audio-recordings of patient encounters and determine the relevance of questions to the diagnosis. The interviews will be anonymised and transcribed verbatim. A coding framework will be developed using the five-stage process proposed by Ritchie &Spencer (Analyzing qualitative data, 1994). Thematic analysis of the data will be done using ATLASti. Expected outcomes: The study findings will provide meaningful insights in to organizing and re-structuring medical internship training to facilitate learning and on measures for improving clinical reasoning during undergraduate medical training.
Knowledge on effects of alcohol among medical undergraduates in Sri Lanka
(Staff Development Center, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2015) Perera, K.M.N.
Background: Alcohol is a major determinant of morbidity and mortality (WHO, 2004). Medical profession plays a key role in controlling alcohol related problems. Global evidence suggest medical undergraduates have inadequate knowledge on effects of alcohol, leading to impaired control of alcohol related problemsin thesociety and increasing riskforthemselvesto becomeaddicted(Jeremy et al, 2001; Smit et al, 2009; Odeyemi et al, 2014). Aim:Todescribe the level and gaps of knowledge on effects of alcohol among medical undergraduates of Sri Lanka Theoretical underpinning: It is documented that inadequacy of knowledge generates a vicious cycle resulting in poor knowledge and attitudes among medical professionals. This will lead to poor knowledge, skills and attitudes among teachers, resulting in inadequate curricula and lack of role models to the undergraduates in the profession (Miller et al, 2001). Proposed Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study would be conducted among 500 fourth year undergraduates registered in state medical faculties, recruited using a multi-stage cluster sampling method.A self-administered questionnaire, developed based onWorld Health Organization guidelines on expected competencies from medical professionals at primary health care level and expert opinions of a multi-disciplinary panelwill be used to assess the knowledge level.Prevalence of ‘good knowledge’ would be calculated and presented with 95% Confidence Intervals and knowledge gapswould be identified based on pre-determinedquestions. Expected outcomes: If the knowledge level is found to be low, it can be used as an advocacy tool to improve attitudes of the medical professionals. Identified knowledge gaps would be shared with the curriculum development committees of all the Faculties of Medicine. A model curriculum will be developed based on the findings, available literature and expert opinion and will be disseminated to the Faculties of Medicinein Sri Lanka.
Lexico-Syntactic Retrival and Cohesive Speech in Sinhala-English Speaking Bilingual Aphasics
(Staff Development Center, University of Kelaniya, 2015) Atapattu-Bakmeewewa, A.D.S.
Introduction: The asymmetrical effects on the languages of an aphasic bilingual and the subsequent patterns of recovery have continually questioned the underlying representation and control of language. The linguistic environment within which a word is recalled is thought a key determiner. Discourse analysis provides an unprecedented opportunity for a realistic assessment of word recall performance. Need: The akin and atypical lexico-syntactic features of Sinhala and English may indicate novel and distinctive patterns of bilingual aphasic language errors. Aim: To compare and contrast unit retrieval skills in naming and connected speech tasks in Sinhala speaking monolinguals and Sinhala-English speaking Bilingual, healthy controls and Persons with Aphasia (PwA). Methodology: The first phase of the four-phased study involves the preparation and translation of three, originally English, test material, the development of a Language Proficiency Questionnaire (LPQ) and pictorial stimuli for connected speech sample elicitation. A pilot trial is conducted in phase two and primary testing, in phase three. Based on phase-specific objectives of the study, monolingual (Sinhala) and bilingual (Sinhala- English) PwA and healthy controls are recruited. Participants will be sampled purposively and selected through stringent eligibility criteria. Accessible information guidelines of the British Stoke Association are employed. The main test protocol includes a naming task, narrative discourse, procedural discourse and a conversational speech. The fourth and final phase would further analyze the findings in phase three. Analysis: Micro and macro-structural analysis of the speech samples; across groups and languages, for error patterns through various levels of language production, utilization of linguistic cues and methods of self-correction. Anticipated Implications: Findings are expected to challenge the wide spread practice of utilizing clinical data and material developed for other languages. Instead, it aims to highlight the need for tailor made assessment and treatment protocols, unique to the Sri Lankan clinical context.
Corporate Governance and Firm Performance: A Study of Sri Lankan Bank, Finance and Insurance Companies
(Staff Development Center, University of Kelaniya, 2015) Kawshalya, P.
Corporate governance is a highly discussed topic which received the attention of corporate world during the last decade due to the paramount importance embodied within it for the company performance and stability. Basically corporate governance means the set of rules by which management of the company is directed and controlled. It attempts to ensure that managers and other insiders of an organization take measures or adopt mechanisms to safeguard the interest of stakeholders. With the global financial crisis which affected many of the world business giants, now companies are highly concerned to improve their corporate governance practices and therefore today researchers also have a great awareness to carry out researches in this area. However currently in Sri Lankan context less considerable of researches available in Corporate Governance. This study focuses on “Corporate Governance and Company Performance” considering all Bank, Finance and Insurance companies listed in Colombo Stock Exchange as at December 2014. Data will be analyzed using the data of financial year 2013/14 using SPSS statistical software and hypothesis will be tested by performing descriptive statistics, correlation analysis and regression analysis for collected data.
Genetic modifier of Hereditary Hemochromatosis gene (HFE) in transfusion dependent thalassemia: phenotype genotype relationship in a Sri Lankan population
(Staff Development Center, University of Kelaniya, 2015) Padeniya, A.G.P.M.
Background and Purpose: Iron overload is a major complication in patients with transfusion dependant thalassaemia and co- existence of Hereditary Haemochromatosis (HH) aggravates this complication. Two common missence mutations in the HFE gene 845G>A (p.C282Y) and c.187C>G (p.H63D) are associated with HH. The aim of this study was to genotype c.845G>A and c.187C>G mutations in regularly transfused β thalassaemia patients and to correlate the association between these mutations with their serum ferritin levels. Method: 125 patients with β thalassaemia who were on regular blood transfusions referred to ward 2, 3, 4 and 9, Lady Ridgway Hospital, Colombo and who were at Thalassaemia center, Teaching Hospital, Anuradhapura were recruited to the study. HFE gene was tested for c.845G>A and c.187C>G mutations by Amplification Refractory Mutation System Polymerase Chain Reaction. Serum ferritin level was measured using electrochemiluminescense method. The C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation level (ESR), and Serum Glutamine Aspartate Transaminase (SGPT) levels were done to exclude coexisting inflammatory states and liver disease. The results were analyzed using Student’s t-test. Results: None had the p.C282Y variant. 23 were heterozygous for the p.H63D variant. Allele frequencies of the two variants; p.C282Y and p.H63D, were 0% and 9.2% respectively. There was no statistically significant difference (p = 0.865) between the mean ferritin level of carriers and wild type of the p.H63D variant; the levels were 4987ng/ml and 4571ng/ml respectively. CRP, ESR and SGPT were elevated in 9 (7.2%; c.187CC 4, c.187CG 5), 65(52%; c.187CC 50, c.187CG 15), 82(65.6%; c.187CC 64, c.187CG 18) respectively. The confounding effect of inflammation and liver disease on the serum ferritin level could not be analyzed due to small sample size. Conclusions: In Sri Lankan patients with transfusion dependant thalassaemia the p.C282Y mutation is rare and cannot be considered as a risk factor for iron over load. The p.H63D mutation may be a potential risk factor for iron overload; this needs to be verified using larger cohort studies.
Tamil Borrowings in Sinhala: a Linguistic Approach
(Staff Development Center, University of Kelaniya, 2015) Weerawardhana, V.
Background: Sinhala is an Indo - Aryan Language. Tamil is a Dravidian Language. Although these two languages belong to separate linguistic families they have interrelationships. The main reason for this situation is clear. Sinhala is an Indo- Aryan Language separated from the other members of her family by the Dravidian language belt. That means Geographically Sinhala language is used amidst Dravidian languages. Therefore these two languages have co-existed for centuries. As a result of this, number of language borrowings can be identified in both languages. This language contact has made changes in the structure of Sinhala language. Sometimes, these changes misled even Linguists: Few decades ago Sinhala was named as a Dravidian language because of structural changes. Therefore Tamil borrowings in Sinhala should be identified in a Linguistic background. Methodology: In this research, Results of Tamil language contact to Sinhala Language was analyzed linguistically. Morphological, syntactical and Lexical theories are applied to analyze borrowings. Finally, results show how Tamil borrowings have made changes in the major components of Sinhala Language. Results: No new phonemes have been added to the phonemic component of Sinhala language due to Tamil contact. Few changes can be seen in Sinhala Language regarding morphological component. Sinhala imperative suffixes are inspired by Tamil suffixes of that sort. As well several post positions in Sinhala also have a Tamil origin. Very few syntactical changes can be also be identified. . One such evidence is ''relative participles." In most of Indo Aryan Languages including Sinhala, usage of relative pronouns in complex sentences is a distinguish feature. On contrary, In Dravidian languages relative participles are used instead of relative pronouns. In modern Sinhala relative participles are a major syntactic category. This has happened due to Tamil contact. As well most of compound verbs in Sinhala have a Tamil origin. At the same time ancient Sinhala numeric compound pattern has also been changed by the inspiration of Tamil numeral compounds. The most prominent area of Tamil borrowing is the Lexicon. Today number of Tamil words can be seen in Sinhala Lexicon. Tamil words in Sinhala Language can be categorized as loan words, loan blends or loan shifts. Implications: The study provides a foundation for studies on Tamil language inspiration. to Sinhala language. Identifying structural changes due to borrowings will help to analyze genetical features of the language.
Internet-mediated Market Orientation towards Customer Perceived Value: Empirical Evidence from Hotel Industry in Sri Lanka
(Staff Development Center, University of Kelaniya, 2015) Gamage, T.C.; Ahsan, F.J.
Market orientation (MO) has long been stressed as an essential concept in the marketing discipline. Despite the emerging role of the Internet as a crucial topic in the marketing discipline, the nature of MO on the Internet remains an area of ambiguity. Drawing upon the MO theory and the consumption-values theory, this paper proposes a framework which addresses the mechanism underlying the relationship between MO and customer perceived value (CPV) on the Internet with a use of a mediator variable called information-based value creation (IVC). Adopting the pragmatism research paradigm and mixed method research design, face-to-face questionnaire survey is used as the main research strategy. Semistructured interviews are initially used to validate the measurement scales and at the end, to help explain the quantitative findings. Data stemmed from 116 manager- customer dyads are used to assess the proposed framework in hotel industry in Sri Lanka using the Partial Least Squares path modeling. The results indicate that the proposed framework explains 96.6% of the variance in IVC and 92.2% of the variance in CPV, providing strong evidence of its explanatory power. Moreover, the results demonstrate that IVC has a complementary mediating effect on the relationship between MO and CPV indicating that besides influencing CPV indirectly via IVC, MO also impacts CPV directly on the Internet. The significance of this study stems from theory and methodological triangulation. The findings may help hotels to deliver superior value to their customers through proper integration of the Internet into MO process.