Symposia & Conferences

Permanent URI for this communityhttp://repository.kln.ac.lk/handle/123456789/10213

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 1901

Acceptance of ICT-Enabled Services Among Bangladeshi Farmers
(Department of Zoology, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2014) Quarmal, S.B.
This paper is aimed at presenting a proposed work that focuses on the decision-making process regarding the acceptance of ICT-enabled services among Bangladeshi farmers. For this purpose, an Artificial Society Model (ASM hereafter), introduced by the authors, is being used. This psychology-oriented ASM of decision-making deals with knowledge-based decision-making process. It consists of a set of agents that represents groups of people who respond similarly to certain problem. The agents are characterized by the extent of knowledge that they have on the problem. The knowledge of an agent is expressed by a mathematical function. Thinking process of the agent is simulated by using a linkage model of cognitive psychology. A message is formed by the agent, based on the knowledge function and the conclusion (decision) of the agent on the given problem, which is also expressed mathematically, and is transferred to another agent and modifies the knowledge function of the agent that receives the message. As a result, the model enables to simulate dynamics of decision making processes in society. Such modeling helps us to understand various natural and social phenomena such as the issue discussed in this article, i.e. decision-making process regarding the acceptance of ICT-enabled services among Bangladeshi farmers.
An Adaptive Histogram Equalization Algorithm for Enhance Mammograms
(Department of Zoology, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2014-06) Amarasinghe, A.S.; Abeysooriya, D.P.
Breast cancer is one of the leading cancers in the female population and most of them are lethal; to save lives breast cancer should be identified in its early stage. In Sri Lanka 25% of the detected cancers are recognized as breast cancers in each successive year between 2000 to 2005. Mammography is the most successful method to diagnose breast cancers. Mostly mammograms are poor quality images, and doesn‘t provide any hard evidence to diagnose cancers although it has the accuracy of 80% - 90%. And this is where the mammogram enhancement is essentially needed. Among various image enhancement techniques, histogram equalization is the most convenient method to enhance images. But unfortunately many prevailing histogram equalization techniques are not suitable for mammogram enhancement, because they can‘t accurately separate noise from the image. Detecting cancers in a Mammogram is rather delicate process which needs fairly controlled image enhancement with noise reduction. The proposed histogram equalization technique can control the amount of enhancement and it intelligently separates the noise from the interested regions and enhances the suspicious areas. Many histogram equalization methods are available to enhance images. But the common problem with all these algorithms is they did not concern about the actual intensities of the pixels at all. In fact, this leads the whole image enhancement into failures by over enhancing the images. However, lack of controllability is the major obstacle to use histogram equalization in mammogram enhancement. Actual intensities of the pixels must be contributed to the process of enhancement to control the amount of enhancement and prevent destroying the valuable information. The proposed algorithm uses a set of candidate intensities to pick the most appropriate intensity for the enhancement just like a genetic algorithm. Newly taken mammograms were used to experiment the power of enhancement of the algorithm. The image samples were taken from the Karapitiya hospital, Galle, Sri Lanka, with the authorization from the Director there. The major concerns were how well the algorithm can reduce the noise and highlight the cancerous areas of the images. Obviously this enhancement must assist the observers to find hard evidence to detect cancers. Following shows a mammogram image before and after the enhancement.Identifying a breast cancer is a tough job and it needs years of practice and some sophisticated technology. But still 10% of breast cancers are missed by radiologists. This happens mainly due to noise of the images and complex overlying and underlying structures in the cancer images. Almost every Mammogram is a poor quality image which doesn‘t provide enough hard evidence to pursue and diagnose cancers. This research led to produce an image enhancing algorithm which can be used to enhance mammograms to detect early stage breast cancers to support and assist in medical treatments.
Influence of Human Computer Interaction in Learning Management System
(Department of Zoology, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2014-06) Thuseethan, S.; Vasanthapriyan, S.
The word E-learning in many developing and developed countries is inseparable from the field of education and more common in nature. The usefulness of Learning Management Systems in e-learning lies not only in performing the academic task itself but also in sharing of knowledge between users, which includes academics and students. The current trend in developing Learning Management Systems is largely empirical, and academically sound learning experiences are still absent. At the first glance faster, more flexible, more natural, easier and more convenient means for users and Learning Management Systems to interchange information are required. In user‘s perspective, the use of Learning Management System is constrained by the human‘s perceptual and cognitive abilities. On the other hand, in computer side, it constrained only by devices used in the system and the limitations in software design. The best way to overcome both types of constraints therefore now totally lies in designing the user interface rather than the internal system design. In this research appropriate strategies for developing interfaces to Learning Management Systems at a national level were considered. The issues in designing interfaces for Learning Management System for academics are little different from the design standard of interfaces taken from the literature of Human Computer Interaction standards. These differences were considered with the help of a survey done in an academic organization and are described, explained, and clarified. Finally we came up with some modification of standards with the help of existing standards in Human Computer Interaction and with the research output. This type of Human Computer Interaction standards for Learning Management System can satisfy the desires of its intended academic users and deliver a suitable opening for advance research and development.
Role of Communication Technology and Indigenous Knowledge in Promoting Climate Change Adaptation in Sri Lanka
(Department of Zoology, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2014-06) Ambepitiya, K.R.
Climate Change and its impact are a growing concern of the modern world. Most of the present climate problems have occurred as a result of technological and scientific successes. Scientific mode of production and consumption has led to the problem of climate change because of the ignorance of morality and ethics of development as well as sustainable traditional knowledge. Modern scientific knowledge is trying to find a solution to the sustainable development, but at the same time it cannot be ignored the fact that the Traditional Knowledge is equally important to supplement the scientific knowledge. Climate change is an ecological problem so, the knowledge and people who are close to the nature will have potential solution and their involvement must come into policy discussion. To identify how information and communication technology (ICT) can use indigenous knowledge of people to promote climate change adaptation and to study the ways of using communication technology to create awareness of climate change adaptation among publics in Sri Lanka are the main objectives of this study. A descriptive research methodology is used for this study and administered to a selected sample from a specific population included with executives who are from private and public sector offices. The study was carried out for six months using a questionnaire as the survey instrument. This paper discussed the importance of acquiring the traditional knowledge of people and how the available information is being disseminated through ICT in Sri Lanka. Literature outlines the importance of applying traditional knowledge which leads to a sustainable living environment and the methods of ICT used to promote climate change adaptation in other countries. It can be concluded from the present study that ICT is a key to the modern world to promote indigenous knowledge to facilitate climate change adaptation and create awareness of its impact to Sri Lanka.
An Effective Model for Successful ICT Professionals in Sri Lanka
(Department of Zoology, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2014-06) Pathiratne, Shamitha
Information technology industry has become one of the primary indicators of economic outlook in any country. People who work and study in this field are the significant factors that drive information technology. The Ministry of Telecommunication and Information Technology has the important mission to promote ICT in Sri Lanka. Therefore, ICT labor should have enough resources with high potential, knowledge and skills.This research focuses on how inner characteristics and personalities affect IT professionals in Sri Lanka. The objective of this study was to find out the whether the 13 Kings Model which deals with thinking preferences and Big 5 personality can be used to find out the strength of an IT professional. A self administered psychology questionnaire consisting of 130 closed questions was used in the present study where the sample size used was 495. The ICT work force can be divided into two groups as high skilled and low skilled. The number of low skilled is about 50% higher than the number of high skilled. The 9 IT jobs can be separated as 6 high skilled jobs and 3 low skilled jobs. Findings of the Study reveals that the 13 Kings Model is an effective career path model which can be used to determine thinking preferences and personality of IT professionals enabling the identification of their strengths, thus contributing to develop the intellectual capital of an organization. If the professional knows their strengths, they can find the suitable or preferred job which can consequently improve their performance and career path.
Adoption for ICT and E-Commerce Services in Hospitality Industry - Challenges and Opportunities
(Department of Zoology, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2014-06) Damunupola, D.A.K.A.
Over the last six decades, tourism has experienced continued expansion and diversification with the rapid growth of technological advancements. Effective and high-speed Information and Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure and software applications are crucial for the development of hospitality industry as it offers great opportunity to increase customer value, enhance customer satisfaction and achieve business excellence and high profits. The Central Reservations Systems (CRS), Front-office information systems, booking information systems, hotel management information systems, Global Distribution Systems (GDS), property management systems and Destination Integrated Computerized Information Reservation Management Systems (DICIRMS) are some of the main information technologies that serve hospitality industry today. However, the development of ICT has also led to changes in demand and supply of the industry while offering personalized hospitality experiences for holiday makers. e – word of mouth publicity, online travel review sites and the social networking sites encourage travellers to share information and research on their dreamed travel destination. As a result, today tourists have become more demanding for ‗value for money and time‘ services. E-commerce has recorded a significant growth as a convenient way of buying and selling goods and services over the internet. Hospitality industry is one of those which is fully benefited from the e- commerce services. Hospitality industry ‗Information Technology Investments‘ are often made to improve performance. This study aims to examine the e-commerce usage and the implementation of ICT for hospitality industry. The findings of the research include number of factors which can be identified behind the immense growth of the ICT and e-commerce services usage. Further those would be beneficial for the hospitality industry policy makers and the stakeholders to design innovative, attractive tourist products to increase the guest satisfaction. The development of ICT and e-commerce offers competitive advantages such as, improved employee productivity and enhanced revenue generation, and also contributes to low labor-costs, cheap raw materials, improve the country‘s infrastructure, communication channels, legislation and so on. The revolution of ICT and e-commerce brought some challenges which influence at both microeconomic and macroeconomic environment levels. These include, lack of trust on online services, insecurity of personal information, lack of infrastructure and poor knowledge of its operation. The expansion of e-commerce services and demand will significantly change the labor market. Further high implementation cost, labor intensive certification process, lack of awareness, limited infrastructure facilities are some of the key barriers that delay adopting ICT and e-commerce services. ‗Broadband promoting Initiative‘, affordable prices, convenience, wide availability, instant connectivity and lifestyle etc also motivate people for online transactions. Hence it is essential to have legal policy where government and regulatory bodies are collaborating on a wider platform to ensure ecommerce law to protect the consumer. More over, awareness and training is needed for ICT at various levels of hospitality enterprises. Government policies and regulations, size of the establishment, financial capacity etc. are equally important factors affecting e -commerce adoption in hospitality industry.The Internet and the e –commerce has dramatically changed the entire hospitality industry while playing a vital role in promoting, integrating and building brand loyalty in tourism.
Combating with avalanche disasters using Google earth - a case study of Gyari sector avalanche in Pakistan
(Department of Zoology, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2014-06) Parvez, S hahid; Zafar, Zafar Iqbal; Imran, Hafiz Ali
Snow avalanches are highly lethal disasters due to their sudden occurrence and impacts. In Pakistan, a similar incident was occurred at Gyari Sector on 07 April 2012 at 2:00 a.m. killing 140 people. A study was conducted to monitor the major causes of such huge human losses, as well as to provide suggestions for future preventive measures. Pakistan, being Alpine glacier and Snowpack resource rich country, always requires proper monitoring, map ping and estimation of these avalanche prone areas for better planning and decision making. Environmental monitoring and mapping of all these very important areas of natural resources, can easily be addressed with advanced technologies of Remote Sensing a nd GIS. In the present study, free satellite images as well as DEM of Google Earth were utilized as the major data source to investigate Gyari Sector avalanche incident. Besides this, 3D Profiling utility of Google Earth was used for tracking potential ava lanche paths and their slopes. It was noted that the Gyari Sector infrastructure was established exactly in the line of an avalanche path. The path of this avalanche which had smashed out all the buildings, people, and other infrastructure, was thoroughly investigated using Google Earth utilities. The slope of this avalanche path was calculated to be 37.27 o , which falls under the maximum danger zone limit of avalanche occurrence. Alternate future options for installation of necessary infrastructure in the a djoining areas are also proposed in this study. Moreover, possible pre - emptive measures to retaining the existing site are also discussed. Remote Sensing and GIS techniques, in general, and Google Earth techniques, in particular, are found to be very usefu l in monitoring and mapping avalanche disasters as well as for their combatting efforts.
Evaluation of the trends in climate change with respect to severity and frequency of occurrence of wet and dry events of rainfall in Aththanagalu oya basin
(Department of Zoology, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2014-06) Udayanga, N.W.B.A.L.; Najim, M.M.M.
Socioeconomic aspects of life have changed due to alterations in the climatic patterns. Sri Lanka needs to pay more attention to the climate extremes as the available water resources are directly affected by these changes. Hence planning and management of water resources based on climatic patterns play a key role in sustainable development. Sustainable planning and management of water resources of Aththanagalu Oya that feeds many large and small scale multi-purpose water extraction schemes in Sri Lanka is vital in the event of climate change. Thus, an analysis of the shifts and trends of climatic patterns with respect to wet and dry events within the Aththanagalu Oya basin was carried out to evaluate the state and the extent of climate change using Standardized Precipitation Index(SPI). Daily rainfall data covering the period from January 1991 to February 2011 of Henarathgoda, Vincit, Chesterford, Kirindiwela, Nittambuwa and Pasyala rainfall gauging stations which are located within the Aththanagalu Oya catchment area were obtained from the Department of Meteorology, Sri Lanka. Two periodic intervals of years (1991-2000 and 2001-2011) were formulated and monthly accumulated rainfall for each month of the considered periods were used as the input to the SPI Model in Mat Lab R2007b (version 7.5). The events were ranked into five classes (normal, mild moderate, severe and extreme) based on the severity of each event and the variations in climate (with respect to SPI) were evaluated using Paired Chi-Square method. A decrease in dry events and an increase of the wet events in the climatic pattern of recent years (2001-2011) compared to the past (from 1991 to 2000) in Vincit, Kirindiwela, Nittambuwa and Pasyala could be observed in accordance with the SPI analysis while an opposite trend was observed in Henarathgoda and Chesterford. Unlike the predictions of many studies which expect significant alterations in climate patterns in the recent years than the past years, according to the SPI approach, only the wet events of Pasyala (a significant increasing trend of wetness) and the dry events of Vincit (a significant decreasing trend of dryness) indicate significant alterations in climatic patterns while the climatic variations indicated by the rest of the areas are statistically insignificant. Hence, a significant increase in wetness in Vincit and Pasyalain terms of both severity and frequency of occurrence with variations of rainfall seasonality could be predicted in accordance with the SPI.
Does Mangrove Function as Sink or Source Of Phosphorus for Its Adjacent River? A Case Study in Mangrove Disturbed by Typhoon in Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve
(Department of Zoology, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2014-06) Huong, Phạm Quynh; Uyen, Ho Phan Minh; Tran, Le Ngọc; Thuyen, Le Xuan; Triet, Tran
A vast area of mangrove in Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve was destroyed by a typhoon named Durian in December 2006. After the typhoon, trunks, branches and twigs were left on the spot. The decomposition of these materials was expected to affect the nutrient dynamics in the mangrove sediment and tidal creek. Therefore, this research was conducted to study the phosphorus dynamics in a tidal creek and test if this mangrove functions as a source or a sink of phosphorus for its adjacent river. The surface water and floating litter were taken during 24 hours on spring tide from a tidal creek connecting the mangrove and its adjacent river. The physicochemical properties of the creek water were measured directly in field. The content of soluble reactive phosphorus (SRP), total particulate phosphorus (TPP), and phosphorus (P) content in the floating litter were determined to calculate the amount of P exchanged between the mangrove and river. Map Info Professional was used to calculate the cross-section area of the creek and the data analysis was performed with SG Plus Centurion XVI. Most of the floating litter were twigs and small wood pieces from the mangrove (62% of the total weight of floating litter). The average amount of floating litter exported from the mangrove was 305.83 gh-1 . The average amount of P exported from the mangrove through the floating litter was 452.3 mgh-1 . SRP in the creek derived from the higher nutrient concentration pore-water from the mangrove sediment which came into the creek during the ebb. The amount of P entering the mangrove was 2013.56 gday-1 , while the amount of P exported from the mangrove was 2232.78 gday-1 . Due to the decomposition of trunks and branches remained on the mangrove floor after the typhoon, the disturbed mangrove functioned as a source of P for its adjacent river.
Environmental Flow Variation due to Mini-Hydro Diversion at Gurugoda Oya, Sri Lanka
(Department of Zoology, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2014-06) Munasinghe, D.S.N.; Najim, M.M.M.
Quantification of amounts of flows that could be diverted maintaining desired ecosystem conditions is difficult, and thus, water allocation among sectors including the environment, has emerged a growing concern in Sri Lanka. Therefore, this research focused on quantifying optimum flows that has to be maintained below the weir site of a mini-hydro power plant located at Morontota, Sri Lanka through Environmental Flow Assessment and to predict whether the flows of the Hungampola South/Morontota village section of Gurugoda Oya would be sufficient to sustain riverine biodiversity. The HEC-HMS 3.5 model was calibrated and validated for the Holombuwa catchment of the Gurugoda Oya basin. The GIS layers that were needed as input data for flow simulation were prepared using Arc GIS 10.0 and the calibrated and validated model was applied to the Alapalawela sub catchment located within the Holombuwa catchment, to generate flows for the past twenty three years (1991-2013). Simulated stream flows were characterized using thirty two different hydrological parameters. The Range of Variability Approach (RVA) targets to be maintained below the weir site were calculated using flows before hydropower diversions, and the rate of non-attainment of flows were determined for past scenarios (2011-2013). According to the RVA, Environmental Flow is not maintained at present in Gurugoda Oya below the weir. Mean rate of non-attainment of the flow of Gurugoda Oya after mini hydropower diversion is around 45% suggesting moderate level of hydrologic alteration due to impoundment. Rate of non-attainment of the indicators of hydrological alterations (IHA) group 1 parameters are in between 33% - 100%. Except for the magnitude and duration of rate of non-attainment of means of 90 day minima and all maxima values which attain a steady 0%, all other group 2 parameters vary between 33% - 67%. In the IHA group 3, timing of lower limit of annual extreme water condition could not be calculated because flow of Gurugoda Oya assumes the same minimal flow for several days, showing more than one annual minima. Annual maxima show a rate of nonattainment of 33%. Rate of non-attainment of the IHA group 4 and 5 both vary between 0% - 100%. Therefore, Hydropower diversions from Gurugoda Oya that deals with damming of the stream needs extensive analysis of environmental impacts due to changes in flow regimes. The RVA targets defined by this study could be of significance for ecosystem management and restorations plans, and could provide ecological operations for the weir.
Survey on Metadata Standards for an E-Teaching Environment
(Department of Zoology, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2014-06) Vasanthapriyan, S.
E--teaching is commonly referred to as the intentional use of networked information and communications technology (ICT) in teaching and learning processes. In order to be easily retrieved, shared and used by different users and for different purposes, the various types of e- teaching documents have to be described following common schemes and rules e.g. specifications or standards and metadata. But the web lacks a uniform organization scheme that would allow easy access to these e-teaching material. It means that there should be efficient accessibility and the recoverability of educational resources. This objective can be gained using the ―Metadata Standards‖. Several institutions and professionals have established Metadata Standards. In this research, a survey was carried out to find out the existing Metadata Standards and their characteristics to propose common Metadata standards to the e—teaching environment. Therefore, the retrieval of information of various types including print, images, animations, presentations, audio, and video in the environment can be easily done.
Application of Information and Communication Technology in Tourism Sector Development: The Case of Jaffna District
(Department of Zoology, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2014-06) Yoharajan, S.
Over the past decade, tourism has become the largest industry worldwide in terms of employment and share of global gross domestic product. In Sri Lanka, Tourism sector attracted a record one million tourists to the country for the first time in history in 2012. However, multiplicity of tourism sector agencies (Local Authorities, Provincial Councils and Line Ministry) has lead to fragmented and segmented system of plans, where each agency prepares a plan independently. Most decisions on development, even on local level activities, are made by bureaucrats. The main objective of this study was to examine the possibilities of community‘s involvement to develop the tourism sector with the application of Information and Communication Technology (ICT). This paper investigates the practical usage of ICT for the benefit of sustainable tourism development. For this purpose, it mainly concentrates on web based systems and Geoinformatics. This research mainly focuses on Jaffna district which has a good blend of aspects in tourism. Thousands of international and local tourists are visiting Jaffna area every year. This study highlights the present status of tourism sector in this area and also point out few drawbacks. It also recommends some future initiatives for betterment of this sector. In this methodology, the traditional vertical planning process is transformed into a horizontal planning process, where local government and other planning entities work together and explore the possibilities of tourism sector planning with indigenous knowledge. Sustainable tourism development has a lot to benefit from applying ICT. In Jaffna, application of ICT and Geoinformatics in tourism sector is still immature. Collecting accurate and updated data (spatial and aspatial) necessitates proper coordination among all stakeholders. Disseminating useful information regarding places of interest, cultural events, religious festivals, etc. to worldwide audience through websites and social media is an important step to be done professionally. Tourism management which includes suitable site selection, destination management, natural resource management, infrastructure facilities, market analysis, manage tourists flow, tracking tourist vehicles and future planning activities have a lot to benefit from using Geoinformatics. This is also considered as a tool for measuring, monitoring and forecasting tourism impacts as well as decision making. This can also be used to identify environmentally sensitive areas which should not be disturbed by tourism.
Suitability Assessment for Cultivation of Sugarcane in the Monaragala District, Sri Lanka Using GIS
(Department of Zoology, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2014-06) Samarasinghe, Y.M.P.; Wickramagamage, P.; Shanmuganathan, K.
Sri Lanka‘s total annual requirement of sugar is 550,000 tons and only 10% of it is produced locally. The necessity for self sufficiency in sugar is identified and the current extent of cultivation of sugarcane has to be expanded for the production of sugar while making use of other byproducts. This requires identification of suitable areas for sugarcane cultivation in the dry zone and intermediate zone of Sri Lanka without causing environmental consequences or influencing the production of other crops. This study attempts to identify areas suitable for sugarcane cultivation in the Moneragala district based on a set of criteria; Soil aspects, environmental aspects, legal aspects and climatic aspects. Boolean approach was applied for the suitability assessment assisted by GIS. Monaragala district extends up to 5659 km2 of area and belongs to both Intermediate and dry zones. Study revealed that 36% of the total extent is suitable for sugarcane cultivation with necessary management practices. Dry zone area within the Monaragala district encountered with water scarcity problem for both Yala and Maha planting conditions where the issue is severe in Yala planting. Feasibility for the usage of surface water resources has to be carried out for discovering solutions for this issue. The intermediate zone areas do not have issues of water scarcity for cultivation of sugarcane and therefore water availability criteria was excluded for this zone. The study can be executed for other districts for the expansion of sugarcane cultivation and the development of sugar industry in Sri Lanka.
E-Waste Generation and Management Practices in Jaffna and Nallur Divisional Secretariat Divisions, Sri Lanka – A Base Line Study
(Department of Zoology, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2014-06) Kayathiri, K.; Charles, E.Y.A.; Surendran, S.N.
The post-conflict development state of Jaffna District has resulted in increased e-waste generation and the problems associated with it. In this phase of development, Jaffna peninsula faces several environmental problems which need an urgent attention. This baseline study was conducted to estimate the magnitude and flow of e-waste generation and to understand the e-waste management practices in Jaffna district. It was conducted in the Jaffna and Nallur Divisional Secretariat Divisions in Jaffna District from February to August 2013 targeting households and corporate as key consumers. Using skip sampling method, random samples of two hundred households in each GN divisions were selected and interviewed. Six offices were selected to represent government, banks and telecom companies. Results of the household survey were compared with the usage of items reported in the 2004 – Consumer Finance and Socio-Economic Survey conducted by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka. The survey revealed that the usage of refrigerators has increased to 58% from 12.8% while the usage of washing machines has increased to 34% from 0.8%. The usage of televisions has increased to 98% from 43.9%. The survey at the corporate reveled that out of their total electrical and electronic equipments desktop computer shows high percentage (28%) of usage. Significantly greater percentage (22%) of LED/LCD screen monitors are used while the usage of CRT monitors is comparatively less (6%). A large number of (9%) air conditioners are in use. 80% of the households are keeping their e-waste at home and are reluctant to throw them as waste. Similarly all public offices keep e-waste until they are auctioned. Large enterprises send their e-waste to the head offices which are located in Colombo. There are no e-waste collection centers in Jaffna. Even though a large number of people can distinguish (70%) e-waste, 100% of households are not aware of what happens to the equipment they have discarded as general waste. Similarly the corporates are also unaware of it. The study also tried to estimate the increase of equipment usage through the electricity consumption. There is a high increase in electrical and electronic equipment usage in Jaffna district which will increase the e-waste dramatically. Also there is a severe lack of knowledge regarding e-waste. Establishing an e-waste collection centre in Jaffna district is an essential need. General public should be made aware of the negative impacts of uncontrolled disposal of e-waste.
Eutrophication Trends in Bolgoda North Lake, Sri Lanka
(Department of Zoology, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2014-06) Perera, B.D.C.; Wijeyaratne, M.J.S.; Dahanayaka, D.D.G.L.; Tonooka, H.; Minato, A.; Ozawa, S.
Chlorophyll-a (Chl-a) concentration in the Bolgoda North Lake (06.400 – 06. 480 N; 079. 550 -079. 580 E), which is a shallow brackish water body situated in the western coastal region of Sri Lanka, was determined through correlating Advanced Space-borne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER) optical sensor data with in-situ data measured from April 2013 to October 2013 in 05 sampling sites. ASTER band ratio of B1/B2 which gave the highest correlation with in-situ Chl-a data was used to generate 15 m resolution Chl-a distribution maps. Chl-a distribution maps generated using ASTER data indicated that most areas of Bolgoda North Lake were eutrophic. Some regions of the Weras Ganga which flows into the Lake showed very high Chl-a concentrations during April indicating hypereutrophic conditions while in June, September and October these areas indicated eutrophic conditions. Observations on land use pattern revealed that industrial zones border these areas. High Chl-a concentrations were also observed in the areas bordered by the lands with low income houses from which household waste as well as sewage are discharged directly to the lake. Chl-a distribution maps developed for 2005, 2008, 2010 and 2011 revealed that eutrophication of the Bolgoda North Lake has gradually increased in the recent past. This may possibly be due to the increase in the industrial effluents as a result of industrial development in the area and also due to increased population of low income groups that live in some areas bordering the lake.
Novel Approach for Analyzing Brahmi Scripts
(Department of Zoology, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2014-06) Bandara, D.; Warnajith, N.; Minato, A.; Ozawa, S.
Writing is one of the most important inventions of humankind. There are few main languages in the ancient world. Among these ancient languages Sanskrit was used in the Indo region. Brahmi script is one of the most important ancient letters in South Asia. It became the matrix of Debanagari character used for Sanskrit and Hindi. The people of Sri Lanka are fortunate that some of the writing of their ancestors is preserved on various inscriptions found throughout the country. These inscriptions have been discovered under the drip ledges of caves, rocks, pillars and slabs. Inscribed gold, silver and copper plates have been discovered as well. On the decipherment of these inscriptions, historical, linguistic and paleographical conclusions could be arrived at. The source data of this study is already published as gray scale images of early Brahmi script. These images are taken from the paper copies of inscriptions called as estampages (rubbed copy). Up to the present, reading and analyzing these inscriptions are done manually. The aim of this study was to develop algorithms based on image data of these estampages and implement a digital data repository. The process of this study can be divided into several stages as follows: (1). Producing precise alphabet fonts of early Brahmi scripts from photographic data, (2). Development of a precise method of identification of ancient letters with the aid of the alphabet fonts, which leads to automatic reading of ancient inscriptions by computers, (3). Database implementation for the analysis, (4). Development of web based interface for scholars over KISSEL network to share the knowledge and experience among the KISSEL users.
Flow Modelling in Nillambe Oya, Sri Lanka
(Department of Zoology, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2014-06) Gunawardena, M.P.; Najim, M.M.M.
Flooding and flow changes in rivers and streams due to anthropogenic activities are the major problems worldwide as well as in Sri Lanka. To address these issues, proper monitoring of flow patterns and prediction of flow changes are necessary; However, daily monitoring and data collection is greatly time consuming and costly. Therefore, development and application of models for accurate simulation of flow variations will be a vital requirement for the management of these ecosystems. In order to address these concerns, a study was done with the objective of calibrating and validating a model based on climatic, landuse and flow data and to determine whether the calibrated model could be applied to predict flow variations. HEC-HMS 3.5 model which was developed by the United States Army Corps of Engineers was used to simulate flow variation of the Nillambe Oya catchment which is located within the central highlands of the mid and upcountry wet zone. During the period from May 2013 to September 2013, flow was measured in nine selected days. Rainfall data, other meteorological data and flow data for eight years (October 1991 to September 1999) were obtained from the Environment and Forest Division of the Mahaweli Authority and the Meteorology Department of Sri Lanka. Daily flow data for five years (October 1991 to September 1996) were used to calibrate the model and another set of flow data for five years (October 1994 to September 1999) were used to validate the model. The flow values that were measured in situ during May 2013 to September 2013 were statistically tested with flow values simulated by the model. Obtained residual plots and calculated percentage residuals of the calibration and validation produced results with high R squared values (above 0.65) and residual percentages within ±1SD and ±2SD above 85% and 95%, respectively. The properly calibrated and validated HEC-HMS 3.5 computer model can be reliably used to simulate flows of Nillambe Oya. Snyder unit hydrograph method, as the transformation method, simulates flows reliably in the study catchment, along with initial loss method. Therefore, HEC-HMS 3.5 model can reliably be used to estimate flow volumes that are available to Hydropower generation, drinking water supply and agricultural purposes while maintaining ecological harmony with the riverine ecosystem.
Towards a SAARC Regional Convention on Sound E- Waste Management
(Department of Zoology, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2014-06) Dayaratne, P.R.K.
The accelerated rate of technological advancement has led to an increasing rate of consumption and rapid rate of obsolescence of electrical and electronic products. Thus, electrical and electronic waste (e-waste) has currently become the largest growing waste stream. In the year 2012, almost 48.9 million metric tons of e-waste was produced around the world, which is an average of 7 kg for each of the 7 billion world population. The current practices of e-waste management in South Asian Association for Regional Coorperation (SAARC) countries experience a number of dilemmas like health risk raised due to primitive disposal and informal recycling methods; lack of comprehensively documented data which make difficulty in realizing the magnitude of the problem; inadequate financial strength; lack of skilled and professional workforce with diverse management, organizational and logistical experience; lack of legislation or enforcement surrounding; and lack of objective to evaluate the alternatives in economically sustainable and environmentally sensitive management of e-waste. This study is an attempt to put forward a presumable regional approach to diminish the emerging problem of ewaste of SAARC countries. The methodology adopted was desk research techniques. The paper suggests possible course of action which is intended to address the e-waste problem of SAARC region covering; (1) undertake regional awareness campaigns on health risks associated with e-wastes; and implement and enforce regional minimum health standards to minimize the adverse effects of e-waste on the environment and human health; (2) create a regional database to develop a comprehensive understanding of the main sources of electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) imports, and the extent, status and trends of e-waste movement around the SAARC region; and establish regional minimum technical standards for major categories of imported EEE; (3) establish a funding organization to finance for inventory, collection, storage, recycling and removal of e-wastes and for research and development; (4) maintain a regional task force with experienced and expertise individuals in the management and operation of e-waste collection actions; and establish a regional training center to train the people engaged in the field; (5) establish a regional research center; and develop proper guidance on ewaste handling and best practice in Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and end of life management options. In order to make the approach reality, the paper emphasizes the obligation of a SAARC regional convention on sound e-waste management.
The southwest monsoon of 2013: its disastrous Impact on the balapitiya fishing population of Coastal southwest sri lanka and the urgent need For information communication technology (ICT) Application
(Department of Zoology, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2014-06) Ali, S.K.M.; Kumara, R.K.C.
Monsoon was traditionally defined as a seasonal reversing wind accompanied by corresponding changes in the precipitation but is now understood as the seasonal change in atmospheric circulation and precipitation associated with the asymmetric heating of land and sea. Sri Lanka is affected annually both by the southwest and northeast monsoons and shows marked variations from intensified disastrous situations to failure. The 2013 southwest monsoon brought disaster to the fishing population of the southwest quadrant especially Balapitiya Divisional Secretariat Division (DSD). Its impact peaked on June 8th with the sudden intensification of the system resulting in high wind and precipitation that led to human death and property loss. The highest number of deaths, missing and injured were reported from Balapitiya DSD. The main objective of the present investigation was to study the damaging effect of the southwest monsoon of 8th June 2013 on the fishing population of the most affected Grama Niladhari (GN) divisions of the Balapitiya DSD. Other objectives were to find out whether an early warning had been issued, the observations of the fishing community on the intensified monsoon situation, safety measures adopted by the community during the disaster, their traditional knowledge on identifying a severe weather situation and the nature of damages to vegetation. The study area covered Ahungalla, Weliwathugoda, Wellabada, Werathuduwa, Brahmanawaththa south and Brahmanawaththa north Grama Niladhari (GN) Divisions. The primary method used was a questionnaire survey on the affected fishing population. Random sampling technique based on the list of affected families provided by the GN of the affected divisions was used to select the sample. Forty questionnaires were administered to each GN division except Brahmanawatte north (39) totaling to 279 affected families in the study area. Other supplementary methods used were interviews, personal and group discussions and case studies. The study was under taken in July 2013. Simple statistical methods such as percentages were used to analyze the data. Result show that there were 24 deaths (out of 27 in Sri Lanka) in the study area. 35.06% said the most serious damage were to their fishing materials, 29.22% said they were unable to go fishing as a result of bad weather. 84.94% said that no early warnings were issued before the disaster and 56.90% have seen uprooted trees in the study area. As protection methods 56.48% had stayed inside the house. Use of ICT as an early warning measure could have saved many human lives if applied during this disaster situation.
Knowledge Sharing and Management Application for National Wildlife Training Center, Sri Lanka
(Department of Zoology, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2014-06) Wickramasingha, W.A.K.L.M.; Kudavidanage, E.P.; Vasanthapriyan, S.; Priyadarshana, T.S.
There is a critical need to share and manage biodiversity data for conservation purposes. A comprehensive inventory of biodiversity data on a location together with information on subjects such as habitat use, conservation status, availability of specimens and previous research can benefit both researchers and decision makers. The National Wildlife Training Center (NWTC) is located in the dry zone, close to Minneriya– Giritale Nature Reserve Block II. It is surrounded by well grown Tropical dry mixed forests and harbors a diverse array of fauna and flora including many endemics and nationally threatened species. The center provides compulsory training to staff of the Department of Wildlife Conservation and has facilities for researchers. It is currently being developed to become an International Training School. Therefore, there is a great necessity to have well documented information on the biodiversity of the locality that can be accessed by visitors, trainees and researchers. In addition an advance form of a database can assist to monitor the use of the specimen collection at the museum and help future development of the site that might affect some of the faunal habitats. Thus this project aims to provide knowledge sharing and management solutions using Information and Communication Technology. The objectives of the study are to provide knowledge sharing and management solutions for using Girithale National Training Center as a model, assist maintaining the specimen collection, provide remote access to users, to reduce barrier between researches and application, to simplify the data searching process and to promote data driven decision making. The project used both primary and secondary data. A biodiversity survey was conducted around the training center in the sanctuary since no previous intensive study on the site has been carried out. The field data as well records from the specimen collection was used as the primary source for project. The research reports at the center were used as secondary sources. The data sharing platform constructed is a web site developed using PHP and the Data base using MySQL. Maps were prepared using digital image processing, use queries, search engine or artificial intelligence agent to retrieve data. In addition a mobile web page was also created. The NWTC could host this web site as a knowledge sharing center. This system provides a knowledge sharing and management system that will help to protect rare and threaten habitats of Girithale and also will provide easy access to different studies conducted. Thus it finally will reduce the gap between conservationists, researchers, decision makers and public and will also facilitate more informed decision making and efficient use of resources.