Browsing by Author "Perera, S."

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An Anthropological Analysis on the Present Face of Ancient Hydraulic Civilization in Sri Lanka: With Special Reference to the Socio Economic and Cultural Study on Kapirikgama Cascade of North Central Province
(University of Kelaniya, 2005) Perera, S.; Jayatilleke, Y.D.; Jayasiri, J.
A special feature of the Sinhala civilization of ancient Sri Lanka was its irrigation network. The purpose of this system was to impound the water in a reservoir during the rainy season and release it through channels to the rice fields during the dry season. The lands thus brought under rice civilization covered the whole of the vast plains of Rajarata, the realm of the earliest rulers of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruva that lasted from the latter half of the first millennium B. C. to the thirteenth century A.D. (Seneviratna 2002: 13). The present study of the ancient irrigation work is limited to the on going situation of the Kapirikgama cascade in North Central province of Sri Lanka. Present government (2004) has been paid its attention to the ancient Sri Lankan grandeur which has been lost from the captive of colonial rulers from 1505. This situation had become more worst under the British rulers (1796). However the Government (2004) has begun a massive irrigation project to reconstruct ten thousand damaged and devastated reservoirs which spread all over the country. Under this project we conduct a socio- economic and cultural research in Kaprikgama cascade during the month of March 2005. Kaprikgama cascade is consisting of three ‘gramaseva’ divisions which named Kaprikgama, Peenagama and Konakumbukwewa. There are more than twenty reservoirs available in the Kaprikgama cascade. Basically we collected two kinds of data named quantitative and qualitative. Through a questionnaire we gathered quantitative data. By using of interview method we able to collect ample of qualitative data. Thereby we explore various socio-economic and cultural aspects of the rural people in the area and also the culture and beliefs which pertaining to the reservoirs of the Kaprikgama cascade of North Central province in Sri Lanka.
The Burden of diabetes mellitus and impaired fasting glucose in an urban population of Sri Lanka
(Wiley-Blackwell, 2013) Pinidiyapathirage, M.J.; Kasturiratne, A.; Ranawaka, U.K.; Gunasekara, D.; Wijekoon, N.; Medagoda, K.; Perera, S.; Takeuchi, F.; Kato, N.; Warnakulasuriya, T.; Wickremasinghe, A.R.
AIMS: To describe the burden of diabetes mellitus and impaired fasting glucose in middle-aged residents (35-64 years) in an urban area of Sri Lanka. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in the Ragama Medical Officer of Health area, from which 2986 participants (1349 men and 1637 women) were randomly selected from the electoral registry between January and December 2007. The participants underwent a physical examination and had their height, weight, waist and hip circumferences and blood pressure measured by trained personnel. Fasting blood samples were taken for measurement of glucose, HbA(1c) and lipids. The prevalence of diabetes (fasting plasma glucose > 7 mmol/l) and impaired fasting glycaemia (fasting plasma glucose 5.6-6.9 mmol/l) and major predictors of diabetes in Sri Lanka were estimated from the population-based data. RESULTS: Age-adjusted prevalence of diabetes mellitus in this urban population was 20.3% in men and 19.8% in women. Through the present screening, 263 patients with diabetes and 1262 with impaired fasting glucose levels were identified. The prevalence of newly detected diabetes was 35.7% of all patients with diabetes. Among patients with diabetes, only 23.8% were optimally controlled. In the regression models, high BMI, high waist circumference, high blood pressure and hypercholesterolaemia increased the fasting plasma glucose concentration, independent of age, sex and a family history of diabetes. CONCLUSIONS: Our data demonstrate the heavy burden of diabetes in this urban population. Short- and long-term control strategies are required, not only for optimal therapy among those affected, but also for nationwide primary prevention of diabetes
Causes, complications and short-term outcome of acute Kidney injury in a resource-limited setting
(SAGE-Hindawi Access to Research, 2024-12) Herath, N.; De Silva, S.; Liyanage, P.; Kumara, S.; Devi, S.; Abeysekara, V.; Mallawarachi, R.; Perera, S.; Karunathilaka, I.; Samarasinghe, S.; Weerakoon, K.
AIMS The outcome of acute kidney injury (AKI) depends on causes, patient factors and care received. We studied the causes, complications and 90-day outcomes of patients with AKI at a tertiary referral centre in Sri Lanka. METHODS Patients aged 18 years or older with AKI referred to nephrology services were analysed retrospectively. AKI severity was assessed using the KDIGO classification. Information was gathered from hospital and clinic records. RESULTS Of the 464 patients studied, 262 (56.5%) were males. The mean age of the study sample was 57.04 (SD 16.85) years. The majority (212-45.69%) were discharged with normal renal functions, 173 (37.28%) were discharged with impaired functions, and 79 (17.03%) died during hospital stay. There were 377 patients at 3 months follow-up; 331 (87.8%) had normalised renal function, 40 (10.6%) had not recovered fully and 6 (1.6%) had succumbed. Progression of AKI to chronic kidney disease or death was significantly high in patients aged > 60 years (p=0.017). More severe AKI was associated with type 2 diabetes (p=0.0042), hypertension (p < 0.0001) and multiple comorbidities (p=0.0014). Persons with no comorbidities had less severe AKI (p=0.0004). Even in the early stages of AKI, there was significantly high mortality (11% in AKI stages 1 and 2) which doubled in stage 3 (22%). Mortality was low in patients with prerenal causes of AKI (OR: 0.59, 95% CI: 0.35-0.99 and p=0.047). CONCLUSIONS AKI in elderly and comorbid patients has high morbidity and mortality. Identification of individuals who are at high risk of developing AKI is important for its prevention, early diagnosis and proper treatment. Limitations in infrastructure, manpower, local research, reporting and recording of AKI are key challenges in providing optimal care for AKI in Sri Lanka.
Chracterisation of beta giobin mutations in Sri Lankan patients with betathalassaemia intermedia
(Sri Lanka Medical Association, 2013) Perera, S.; Silva, D.P.S.I.; Hapugoda, M.; Wickramarathne, M.N.; Wijesirwardhena, I.; Efremove, D.G.; Fisher, C.A.; Weatherall, D.J.; Premawardhena, A.P.
INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Patients with beta thalassaemia intermedia account for a third of patients attending thalassaemia clinics in Sri Lanka. They show immense phenotypic diversity, the genetic basis for which has not been identified so far. Objective were to characterise beta globin gene mutations in Sri Lankan thalassaemia intermedia patients and to determine how it to influences disease severity. METHODS: We identified 64 thalassaemia intermedia patients from the five main thalassaemia centers; Anuradhapura (n= 6), Kuruncgala (n= 4), Ragama (n= 42), Badulla (n=7) and Chilaw (n=5). Their beta globin DNA sequences were analyzed using ABI PRISM 313lx genetic analyser. RESULTS: Of sixteen patients identified to be homozygous for beta mutations, eleven carried mild beta alleles, IVSI 5 G_C (n= 10) and a rare homozygous promoter mutation - 90 C_T (N=l). Other five were shown to have different types of severe iputations in homozygous state. Nearly half the sample (n=39) was heterozygous for beta mutations. Of them 33 showed mild to severe mutation in one of the alleles IVSI-5 G_C (n=12), IVSI-1 G_A (n= 11) were the commonest. Two patients who were hetcrozygones for beta mutation had a highly unstable Hb variant haemoglobin Mizuho causing severe haemolytic anacma. Hb variants Hb G-Szuhu and Hb G-Coushatta were identified in two patients. CONCLUSIONS: We identified types of beta mutations in some patients with thalassaemia intermedia, which account for the clinical severity.
Clinical and molecular heterogeneity of β thalassaemia intermedia in Sri Lanka
(Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2016) Perera, S.
A third of all patients attending thalassaemia centres in Sri Lanka have non-transfusion dependent thalassaemia (NTDT). The majority of these have Hb E β-thalassaemia. The genetic basis of non-E β-thalassaemia intermedia (TI) was studied in an attempt to correlate their genotype with the phenotype. Fifty unrelated TI patients were identified from the main thalassaemia centres, assessed clinically and categorized into ‘mild’, ‘moderate’ and ‘severe’ groups. DNA analyses were performed using standard techniques. Seventeen patients were homozygous or compound heterozygous for β mutations. Five of the homozygotes who carried two mild β alleles had mild disease. Nine inherited two severe β alleles with either one or two α gene deletions; despite the α deletions, they had severe disease. Thirty three patients were heterozygous for a β mutation: IVSI-5 G>C was the commonest. Twenty eight of the heterozygotes carried excess α genes and had a mild-moderate phenotype. The clinical outcomes of this TI population were mostly explained by the genotypes linked to the α and β gene cluster. However, in a minority, the existence of other causative genetic determinants remains to be defined.
Comparison of urban diabetics with optimal and suboptimal control
(British Medical Association, London, 2011) Pinidiyapathirage, M.; Warnakulasuriya, T.; Kasturiratne, A.; Ranawaka, U.; Gunasekera, D.; Wijekoon, N.; Medagoda, K.; Perera, S.; Takeuchi, F.; Kato, N.; Wickremasinghe, A.R.
Introduction The prevalence of Diabetes Mellitus in Sri Lanka is increasing. We describe the characteristics of patients with optimal and suboptimal control of diabetes among known diabetics in a 35–64-year-old urban population resident in the Ragama Medical Officer of Health (Ragama MOH) area of Sri Lanka. Methods A cross sectional study was conducted among 2986 randomly selected 35–64 year olds in the Ragama MOH area from January to September 2007. A detailed history was taken and participants were subjected to a physical examination and assay of fasting blood glucose and HbA1C. A HBA1C <6.5 was taken as evidence of optimal control. Results There were 474 persons (194 males and 280 females) who gave a past history of diabetes. 9 males and 9 females were not on any treatment. 27 persons (9 males and 18 females) were on insulin. Of the 474 diabetics, 113 (48 males and 65 females) had a HbA1c <6.5. The average fasting blood glucose of diabetics with optimal control was 120+21 mg/dl. The mean fasting blood glucose level of the 361 subjects with sub optimal control was 190+70 mg/dl. Optimal glycaemic control was not associated with alcohol intake, smoking, obesity, central obesity and low physical activity levels. Conclusions Most known diabetics had access to treatment but only approximately 25% were optimally treated. The need to optimally manage these patients is highlighted.
Comparison of urban diabetics with optimal and suboptimal control
(BMJ Publishing Group, 2011) Pinidiyapathirage, J.; Warnakulasuriya, T.; Kasturiratne, A.; Ranawaka, U.; Gunasekara, D.; Wijekoon, N.; Medagoda, K.; Perera, S.; Takeuchi, F.; Kato, N.; Wickremasinghe, A.R.
INTRODUCTION: The prevalence of Diabetes Mellitus in Sri Lanka is increasing. We describe the characteristics of patients with optimal and suboptimal control of diabetes among known diabetics in a 35–64-year-old urban population resident in the Ragama Medical Officer of Health (Ragama MOH) area of Sri Lanka. METHODS: A cross sectional study was conducted among 2986 randomly selected 35–64 year olds in the Ragama MOH area from January to September 2007. A detailed history was taken and participants were subjected to a physical examination and assay of fasting blood glucose and HbA1C. A HBA1C <6.5 was taken as evidence of optimal control. RESULTS: There were 474 persons (194 males and 280 females) who gave a past history of diabetes. 9 males and 9 females were not on any treatment. 27 persons (9 males and 18 females) were on insulin. Of the 474 diabetics, 113 (48 males and 65 females) had a HbA1c <6.5. The average fasting blood glucose of diabetics with optimal control was 120+21 mg/dl. The mean fasting blood glucose level of the 361 subjects with sub optimal control was 190+70 mg/dl. Optimal glycaemic control was not associated with alcohol intake, smoking, obesity, central obesity and low physical activity levels. CONCLUSIONS: Most known diabetics had access to treatment but only approximately 25% were optimally treated. The need to optimally manage these patients is highlighted.
Development and assessment of psychometric properties of model medication adherence (MMA) questionnaire to measure adherence to oral medication among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
(College of Community Physicians of Sri Lanka, 2023) Perera, S.; Abeysena, C.
INTRODUCTION: Medication adherence among patients with type 2 diabetes (DM) is assessed in everyday clinical practice. OBJECTIVES: To develop a questionnaire to measure adherence to oral medication among patients with DM and to assess its psychometric properties METHODS: The “Model Medication Adherence (MMA)” questionnaire was developed using the evidence from literature review and interviews with key stakeholders and patients. Answers were set on a five-point Likert scale that scored from 1 to 5, with 15-73 as the possible range of the total score. MMA was drafted in English and translated to Sinhala language by forward- backward translation. A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among adult patients with type 2 DM who attended clinics in Gampaha District General Hospital (DGH). A sample of 150 patients was recruited consecutively. The construct validity of MMA was assessed by Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) through Principal Component Analysis (PCA) with Varimax rotation RESULTS: EFA yielded four factors; sick role behaviour, autonomy, forgetfulness, and barriers that explained 64.36% of the variance of the total score of MMA. Internal consistency was acceptable (Cronbach’s alpha 0.73). The testretest reliability coefficient was 0.85 (p=0.01). Acceptability of the MMA was established by non-response items (none) and the time taken to complete (20 minutes). CONCLUSIONS & RECOMMENDATIONS: MMA is a simple valid questionnaire that adds a novel concept to the adherence literature; sick role and autonomy. It has a good factor structure with established construct validity and is recommended to be used in the clinical setting.
Development of a low cost semiquantitative polymerase chain reaction assay for molecular diagnosis of williams syndrome
(Clinical Laboratory Publications, 2024) Ranaweera, D.M.; de Silva, D.C.; Samarasinghe, D.; Perera, S.; Kugalingam, N.; Samarasinghe, S.R.; Madushani, W.Y.; Jayaweera, H.H.E.; Gunewardene, S.; Muneeswaran, K.; Gnanam, V.S.; Chandrasekharan, N.V.
BACKGROUND: Williams Beuren Syndrome (WBS) is a well-recognized and common genetic cause of congenital heart defects, developmental delay, hypercalcemia, and characteristic facial features. It is caused by a 1.5 - 1.8 Mb heterozygous deletion of chromosome 7q11.23 with loss of around 28 coding genes. The aim of this study was to develop a low-cost, semi-quantitative PCR (sqPCR) method to detect the chromosome 7q11.23 deletion. METHODS: Twenty-four suspected WBS cases were recruited following ethical clearance and informed consent. Blood was obtained, DNA extracted and spectrophotometrically quantified using standard methods. To detect the deletion by dosage analysis, a target region within a gene located in the WBS commonly deleted region of 7q11.23 was amplified together with a control region in a duplex sqPCR assay. The control region was telomeric to the WBS commonly deleted region and was located in chromosome 7q31.2. The two target regions within the deleted region namely a locus within ELN and a marker in the intergenic region between FZD9 and FKBP6 and designated IFF, were amplified in separate duplex sqPCR assays. The Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) gene was used as the control for normalization. Included in the assay were a non-deleted and deleted individuals' samples. RESULTS: Nineteen patients were identified to have the deletion while five did not. All 24 patients' results were confirmed by whole exome sequencing and 11 also by fluorescence in-situ hybridization (FISH). CONCLUSIONS: The data obtained indicates the sqPCR assay developed in this study to be an accurate and reliable diagnostic test for WBS. Most Sri Lankan patients with WBS are diagnosed clinically, as many parents of affected WBS children are unable to afford currently available molecular diagnostic testing. This low cost sqPCR test is therefore likely to benefit Sri Lankan WBS patients, by enabling genetic testing for confirming or refuting a clinical diagnosis of WBS and may be of use in other low and middle income countries.
Dhala-Kota, the Tame Tusker
(Centre for Asian Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2016) Perera, S.
His name means "the elephant with short tusks." He broke it several times by trying to do things beyond the capacity of his tusks that he was blessed with. He was from the Saddhantha Cast of the ancient traditional elephant classification. He was strong, powerful, temperamental and naughty. Six points of his anatomy touched the ground when standing. Many times he had disobeyed his mahout and had run along main roads until he reached home, where he felt safe and secure. He felt very insecure if all his chains were removed. His first home was the Morawatta Waluwwa of the Mapitygama family in Ruwanwella. His second home was the Gangaramaya temple of Podihamudurwo at Hunupitiya. He was renamed Ruwanrajha, meaning the king of Ruwanwella. During this period he travelled by lorry on pilgrimages, from Katharagama to Jaffna through the then LTTE controlled area. A ceasefire agreement had just been signed between the present Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe and the LTTE leader late Prabhakaran and this lorry with RuwanRajha as live cargo was one of the first vehicles that cruised through the A9 road to Jaffna to take part in a Perahera organized by the Sri Naga Vihara of Jaffna. Having passed through about two kilometers of no-man's land we reached the gate at Omanthai. We were not sure if the orders of the leader had reached the anti-government sentries at the gate. However, when the gates opened we were surprised by the shouting of the sentries " PillayarPillayar " , the Tamil word for God Ghanesh or Ghana deviyo of the Sinhalese . They stopped our vehicle, abandoned their sentry post and disappeared, only to return with sugarcane, and fruits to offer to Ruwanrajha. We were relieved. Thereafter, we also shouted “Pillayar” when we were confronted and we got free passage through. They live within their beliefs. Dhala-kota or RuwanRajha's third home happened to be my home at Ruwanwella. During the two and a half year period he was with me, I was surprised and thrilled to hear him purring like a pussy cat but louder than my motor cycle. Contrary to the theory of animal lovers, even while being chained to two trees by their hands and legs, they purr if they are comfortablein the environment. I believe that they have the capacity to tap brain waves of humans-beings, the Pari-chitthagh`anaya. Love, hate, fear etc. of humans, they have the ability to sense. For the same reason there is no conflict between elephants and Veddas, our aadivaasi people. DalaKota had killed only one civilized human being during his life time when a Police officer at Ruwanwella had ordered the mahout to do some work at the time of coming to musk, the period of disobedience of male elephants. However, RuwanRajha's greatest achievement was to carry the casket of Dalada at the magnificent Kandy Perahera. In the year 2002 A.D. he was the cynosure at the annual Kandy Esala Perahera. In 2002, December 18th he took his last breath at Vihara MahaDevi Park (Victoria Park). Even at present, some people come in search of Dhala - pas (soil that has been disturbed by his tusks to enshrine in foundations of their new houses as pooja -vasthu for the Bhahirawa.
Examining the Role of Multitasking on Academic Performance of University Undergraduates.
(8th International Conference on Business & Information ICBI – 2017, Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2017) Perera, S.; Yatigammana, M. R. K. N.; Sarathchandra, K. S. H.
Nowadays, majority of the youth use more than one information and communication technologies such as smart phones, tablets and laptops. These devices allow them to do many activities simultaneously such as talk on the phone while check the Facebook account and listen to music while studying, or surfing internet with more than one site on the web. Thus, it is important to investigate whether this multitasking behavior of the undergraduates will effect on their academic performance. The purpose of this study is to examine the university students’ multitasking behavior and to determine the impacts of this multitasking on their university Grade Point Average (GPA). The population of this study was 3rd and 4th year undergraduates of the Department of Commerce and Financial Management of University of Kelaniya. A random sample of 100 is taken. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire. A pilot study with 30 students has done to check the reliability of the questionnaire. The data analysis showed that there is a significant negative impact of ICT Usage and Internet skills on GPA. Also, there is a significant negative impact of Multitasking behavior on GPA. Further, the multitasking is a mediating factor between Internet skills, ICT usage and GPA of the undergraduates. The findings of the study revealed that, concentrating too many activities at one time leads to decrease the academic performance of the undergraduates.
Fathers’ attitudes towards father-child interaction and how they interact with their children aged 2 - 2 ½ years in the home setting in the Puttalam District.
(University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Perera, S.; Hamsa, S.
OBJECTIVE/S: The general objectives of this study were to describe fathers’ educational level and socioeconomic status and their effect on their attitudes about father-child interaction, and the quality and the frequency of home-based language strategies used by them with their children aged 2 - 2 ½ years in home setting in Puttalam District. The specific objectives were; To determine whether fathers’ educational level affects their attitudes about father-child interaction and home-based language strategies used by them. To determine whether the fathers’ educational level affects the frequency of home-based language strategies used by them. To determine whether fathers’ socioeconomic status affects their attitudes about father- child interaction and home-based language strategies used by them. To determine whether the fathers’ socioeconomic status affects the frequency of home- based language strategies used by them. METHODS: A Quantitative Cross-sectional study design was conducted with 300 participants who were fathers of typically developing children aged 2 - 2 ½ years. Participants were recruited from MOH clinics in Puttalam District. Data collection of the study was done onsite through a self- administered questionnaire including 4 parts as family demographics, fathers’ educational and socioeconomic status (SES), fathers’ attitudes towards father-child interaction, and quality and frequency of father-child interaction. Data was analyzed using SPSS software. RESULTS: Most of the participants with good attitudes about father-child interaction are fathers aged 40-50 years and fathers whose educational level is from Advanced to graduate level. Most home-based language strategies are also used by fathers aged 40-50 but by fathers with educational levels below Advanced Level. A minority of the participants with good attitudes about father-child interaction are young fathers aged 20-40. Most participants in the self-employing sector have good attitudes about father-child interaction. Fathers who work less than 8 hours per day interact more with their children than fathers who work more than 8 hours per day. CONCLUSION/S: The findings of this study conclude that the educational level and the SES of the fathers affect their attitudes about father-child interaction and the quality and frequency of home-based language strategies used by them. The findings describe that attitudes are ‘good’ when the educational level and the SES are high. But, the quality and the frequency of home-based language strategies are ‘good’ when educational level and SES are low. The age level of fathers directly affects their attitudes and usage of 25 home-based language strategies. The findings confirm that mature fathers have ‘good’ attitudes and high quality and frequency of home-based language strategies than young fathers. Furthermore, the findings describe that fathers’ working hours per day affect their time of interaction with their children. It contributes to determining that the interaction time decreases when the working hours per day increase.
Genotype-phenotype association analysis identifies the role of α globin genes in modulating disease severity of β thalassaemia intermedia in Sri Lanka
(Nature Publishing Group, 2019) Perera, S.; Allen, A.; Silva, I.; Hapugoda, M.; Wickramarathne, M.N.; Wijesiriwardena, I.; Allen, S.; Rees, D.; Efremov, D.G.; Fisher, C.A.; Weatherall, D.J.; Premawardhena, A.
β thalassaemia intermedia (βTI) are a heterogeneous group of disorders known to be extremely phenotypically diverse. This group is more complex to manage as no definitive treatment guidelines exist unlike for β thalassaemia major (βTM). There are only a few studies looking at genotype phenotype associations of βTI outside the Mediterranean region. The reasons for the diverse clinical phenotype in βTI are unknown. We categorized fifty Sri Lankan patients diagnosed with βTI as mild, moderate or severe according to published criteria. DNA samples were genotyped for β thalassaemia mutations, α globin genotype and copy number and known genetic modifiers of haemoglobin F production. There were 26/50 (52.0%) in mild group and 12/50 (24.0%) each in moderate and sever categories. 18/26 (69.2%) classified as mild were β heterozygotes and 17/18 (94.4%) had excess α globin genes. 11/12 (91.6%) classified as moderate were β heterozygotes and 8/11 (72.2%) had excess α globin genes. In contrast, 8/12 (66.7%) classified as severe were β homozygotes and 7/8(87.5%) had α globin gene deletions. In Sri Lanka, co-inheritance of either excess α globin genes in β thalassaemia heterozygotes or α globin gene deletions in β thalassaemia homozygotes is a significant factor in modulating disease severity
GOD SAMAN - the earliest convert to Buddhism
(Centre for Asian Studies, University of Kelaniya, 2015) Perera, S.
Buddhism was introduced to Sri Lanka when it was it was losing ground in India. The very first vision of Lord Buddha in Sri Lanka was at Mahiyanganaya. Saman Rala, the veddha chief accepted Buddhism and attained the mental upliftment to Sovan and became the Divine Guardian Protector of Sri Pada. The rest of the clan who could not understand and did not accept Buddhism was subdued and banished beyond the waters. There had been unrest among the people who had faith in other established shrines. Two sub- kings had prepared for war but fortunately reconciled and had been averted by the intervention of God Dedimunda, who was the only god who stood with Prince Siddhartha when he was defeating the Mara, in his mental battle. Today along the Peace Line lie the devala of God Saman and Kuda-Katharagama devala of Murugan/Sanmukam or Skander. In the center lies a Buddhist Shrine interwoven into the rituals of the Uggal Aluth Nuwara Kuda-Katharagama Devalaya in Balangoda.
Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using five varieties of Mirabilis Jalapa flower extracts; evaluation of antioxidant, antimicrobial and photocatalytic activity
(Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Kelaniya Sri Lanka, 2022) Kandiah, M; Perera, S.
Nanoparticles are small molecules (1-100nm) with extra-ordinary physiochemical properties. Characteristic properties of metallic-nanoparticles have led to an upsurge of interest. This study aims at green-synthesis of silver-nanoparticles (AgNPs) using variants of Mirabilis jalapa flower extracts and evaluation of their antioxidant, antimicrobial and photocatalytic activity. In the process of bottom-up synthesis of AgNPs, water was used in extracting the biomolecules which function as reducing, capping and stabilizing agents. Several phytochemical tests including Molisch’s and Millon’s test were conducted to confirm the presence of phytochemicals. In the study, AgNPs attained within 24h at room-temperature depicted a dark brown color change, visually confirming AgNP synthesis. UV-visible spectrum gave an absorption maximum at 480nm that corresponded with the surface plasmon resonance of silver. SEM analysis showed needle and spherical shape AgNPs ranging from 50-70nm. Total Flavonoid Content (TFC), Total Phenolic Content (TPC) and Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC) were analyzed by Aluminum Chloride (AlCl3) colorimetric method, Folin Ciocalteu reaction, and Molybdenum reduction reaction respectively. DPPH assay was conducted to study free-radical scavenging activity. One-way ANOVA statistical analysis was used to analyze the TFC, TPC, TAC and antibacterial activity variance between water extracts and the AgNPs. Antioxidant activity of AgNPs were significantly higher than the water extracts. The relationship between TFC, TPC and TAC was expressed using Pearson correlation (correlation >0.90). The synthesized AgNPs were classified as semi-conductors and the photocatalytic degradation of methyl-orange using 4000ppm of W-AgNPs (Rate constant=0.2501) in the presence of NaBH4 was faster than 267ppm of W-AgNPs (Rate constant=0.0103). Antibiotic activity testing was carried out by following the well diffusion technique. The water extracts and W-AgNPs showed high antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. aureus, even though there was no significant difference. Thereby, AgNPs synthesized using varieties of Mirabilis jalapa flower extracts could produce promising results in medical research in developing treatment against free-radical induced diseases, antibiotic resistant bacteria and degradation of azo-dyes in industrial wastewater, to improve living standards.
Haemato-immunological and histological responses in Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus exposed to titanium dioxide nanoparticles.
(Sri Lanka Journal of Aquatic Sciences, 2012) Perera, S.; Pathiratne, A.
Increased industrial application of nanotechnology has potential to increase nanoparticle contaminations in aquatic ecosystems. However a large knowledge gap exists on influence of nanoparticles on fish populations inhabiting receiving waters. The present study reports the effects of exposure to aquatic suspensions of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs, anatase, particle size <25nm: 0, 1, 10 mg l-1, for 7 and 14 days) on some haematological/ innate immune responses and histological structure of gills, liver and intestine of Nile tilapia, an economically important freshwater fish in tropical regions. The results show that TiO2 NPs exposure conditions were not lethal to Nile tilapia but lead to blood parameter alterations and histopathological changes in the organs. Upon exposure of fish to both concentrations of TiO2 NPs for 14 days, erythrocyte counts, haemoglobin levels, total leucocyte counts and percent neutrophils in the peripheral blood were increased significantly (P <0.05) in comparison to the control fish. Despite increases in neutrophils, total phagocytic and myeloperoxidase activities of the blood of fish exposed to 10 mg L-1 TiO2 NPs were depressed significantly (P <0.05) whereas respiratory burst activity was not altered. Serum lysozyme activities in the fish exposed to 10 mg l-1 TiO2 NPs were elevated significantly (P <0.05) compared to the controls. Histological changes seen in the tilapia exposed to TiO2 NPs were epithelial separation, mucous cell proliferation, hyperplasia and lamellae fusion in the gills; hepatocytes with vacuolations, pycnotic nuclei, apoptosis and necrosis in the liver; eroded villi epithelium, reduction of mucous cells and degeneration of mucosa of the intestine. Although blood parameter alterations seen in Nile tilapia can be considered as physiological responses of the fish to cope up with the TiO2 NPs induced stress, observed organ pathologies could lead to serious health implications. Hence, detail studies with a range of environmentally relevant levels are warranted to investigate chronic effects of TiO2 nanoparticles on health of fish populations in the receiving water bodies. We recommend use of Nile tilapia as a tropical fish model for further studies on nanotoxicity.
Hemitruncus arteriosus: A rare congenital cardiac anomaly diagnosed and treated during the neonatal period
(Sri Lanka College of Paediatricians, 2023) Pathiraja, H.; de Livera, R.; Wickramaratne, S.; Perera, S.; Mugunthan, M.S.; Mettananda, S.
No abstract available
Marriage patterns in Sri Lanka and the role of consanguinity in thalassaemia: A cross sectional descriptive analysis
(Sri Lanka Medical Association, 2019) Goonatilleke, M.D.D.C.; de Silva, S.T.; Rodrigo, R.; Perera, S.; Goonathilaka, G.W.M.R.G.B.; Ramees, L.; Mettananda, S.; Weatherall, D.L.; Premawardhena, A.P.
INTRODUCTION & OBJECTIVES: Consanguineous marriages play an important role in the propagation of thalassaemia. There is a paucity of data on consanguineous marriages in modern Sri Lankan society and its effect on thalassaemia births. We studied sociological aspects of Sri Lankan marriages with emphasis on consanguinity, and the prevalence of consanguinity in the parents of patients with thalassaemia. METHODS: Three marriage registrars from each district were asked to record details about the partners of all marriages they registered for 6 months, from July 2009. Parents of patients with thalassemia were interviewed separately, to identify any consanguinity. RESULTS: A total of 5249 marriages were recorded from 22 districts. Average age at marriage was 27.2 9 years for males and 24.0 8 years for females. 3737/5249 (71.2%) of all marriages were Love Marriages, except in the Moor community where 89.2% were Arranged Marriages. Female literacy and education tier levels were higher than in males. Overall national consanguinity rate was 6.4% (337/5249). It was highest among Tamils (20.4%), but only 3.3% among Sinhalese and 3.1% among Moors. In the parents of 405 patients with thalassaemia, overall consanguinity rate was 11.1% (45/405): it was highest among Tamils (33.3%) and lowest among Sinhalese (9.4%). CONCLUSION: Consanguinity among patients with Thalassaemia was almost double the national average. Though not the dominant cause, more emphasis should be given to consanguinity when conducting thalassaemia prevention campaigns. Since they are older and better educated at marriage, female partners should be better targeted in such health education campaigns.
Molecular diagnosis of velo-cardio-facial syndrome among sri lankan patients with congenital cardiac defects
(Sri Lanka College of Paediatricians, 2015) Tevarajan, I.; Ranaweera, D. M.; Perera, S.; Samarasinghe, D.; Morawakkorala, R.; Silva, R. L.; de Silva, D.; Chandrasekharan, N.V.
Velo cardio facial Syndrome (VCFS) is caused by a 3 Mb deletion of chromosome 22qll.2. Its multiple clinical features include orofacial clefting, congenital cardiac defects (especially conotruncal),developmental delay and learning difficulties. Hypoparathyroidism and thymic hypoplasia are associated. Dysmorphic features include expressionless face, prominent nose, narrow eyes and long fingers/ toes. Clinical diagnosis is difficult due to its variability making molecular diagnosis essential but this is often too expensive for widespread use. We have developed a less expensive semi-quantitative PCR method for diagnosing VCFS and report preliminary results in congenital cardiac defect patients.OBJECTIVE: • Identify the 22qll.2 deletion syndrome among a selected group of children with typical cardiac defects • Describe clinical features of affected cases DESIGN, SETTING AND METHOD: TweIve children (6 males, mean age 3y lmo) with conotruncal congenital cardiac anomalies or cardiac defects associated with other clinical feature of VCFS were .recruited following informed consent from parents. Ethical approval had been granted for this study. A blood sample was obtained for DNA extraction and the clinical data recorded. Molecular diagnosis was performed using semi-quantitative PCR. RESULTS: Three cases were positive for the deletion. Their cardiac anomalies were an interrupted aortic arch,tetralogy of Fallot and right sided aortic arch. None had palatal anomalies and two (67%) had learning difficulties. None had a positive family history. Only one had facies that were typical. The negative cases included six with aortic arch anomalies, none with clefting and 4 with learning difficulties(44). Two had a family history suggestive of VCFS and two had typical facial features. CONCLUSIONS: Three out of the 12 children were positive for the 22qll.2 deletion.
Molecular diagnosis of Williams Buren syndrome in a cohort of Sri Lankan patients
(Sri Lanka Medical Association, 2012) Ranaweera, D.M.; de Silva, D.; Samarasinghe, D.; Perera, S.; Rajapaksha, N.; Chandrasekharan, N.V.
INTRODUCTION: Williams Bueren Syndrome (WBS) is a common genetic cause of congenital heart defects associated with developmental delay, hypercalcaemia and characteristic facial dysmorphism. It is caused by a 1.5 to 1.8 Mb deletion of chromosome 7qll.23 involving the loss of around 23 genes including the elastin (ELN) gene. This study reports the development of a semi quantitative PCR method to diagnose WBS. AIMS: To establish a molecular diagnostic test for WBS and determine the frequency of ELN deletions among clinically suspected cases. METHODS: Sixteen suspected WBS cases identified by two paediatric cardiologists were recruited following ethical clearance and informed consent. DNA was extracted and dosage analysis was carried out using semi-quantitative PCR. In a multiplex PCR reaction normal (N), positive control (with a confirmed deletion) and patients' (PJ DNA was amplified using 2 primer pairs which amplified regions within the ELN gene and the CFTR gene on chromosome 7 but outside the deleted region. Following agarose gel electrophoresis, the amplified products were quantified. A ratio of P:N of 0.5 indicated the presence of a deletion while a ratio of 1 indicated the absence of a deletion. RESULTS: Among sixteen suspected cases, 12 (75%) had an ELN gene deletion while 4 cases did not. CONCLUSIONS: This semi-quantitative PCR method was able to distinguish ELN deleted cases from the non deleted ones. The preliminary data supports this as a useful diagnostic test for WBS but validation is required before its clinical use.