Eastern University, Sri Lanka

Research on microgrids often overlooks the variations in price elasticity among different load categories within demand response programs (DRPs). Price elasticity indicates how the quantity demanded of a product or service changes in response to price alterations. In microgrid settings, various load types—such as residential, commercial, and industrial—demonstrate unique responses to changes in pricing. To effectively capture the dynamic responses of customers to variations in power prices, we employ a flexible elasticity model. This model is instrumental in reflecting the real-world behaviour of consumers, who may adjust their energy consumption patterns in response to price signals. By incorporating this model, we aim to provide a more realistic representation of demand-side responses, which is essential for the successful implementation of demand response strategies. Each of these models offers unique insights into how different types of loads respond to price changes, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation of their impacts on microgrid operations. The exponential model, for instance, may capture rapid increases in demand with price drops, while the hyperbolic model could illustrate more gradual changes in consumption patterns. To assess the effectiveness of these demand response programs, we conducted a series of case studies, each evaluated against a set of techno-economic performance metrics. These metrics include factors such as cost savings, energy efficiency, reliability, and customer satisfaction. By analyzing the outcomes of each case study, we were able to derive a prioritized ranking of the demand response programs based on their overall performance. The multi-criteria assessment method employed in this study allows for a holistic evaluation of the various demand response initiatives, taking into account the diverse impacts they may have on both the microgrid and its consumers. The results of numerical simulation show that energy cost and emission polluting are reduced by 15.3% and 11.3% with implementing DRPs.

Objective To confirm the presence of Culex ( Cx.) (Lophoceraomyia) cinctellus in Sri Lanka using morphological and molecular evidence. Methods From October 2019 to April 2020, mosquito surveillance was conducted fort-nightly in the Banduragoda Public Health Inspector area. Larvae were collected using standard siphoning methods, while adults were sampled using Cattle Baited Trap, Gravid Traps, Light Traps, Bird-Baited Traps, Dog Baited Traps, and diurnal human landing collections. Specimens were transported to the Entomology Laboratory at the Medical Research Institute for identification. Morphological identification was performed using standard taxonomic keys. Molecular confirmation was achieved through DNA sequencing of mosquito head and thoracic regions, followed by sequence analysis using NCBI BLAST and Geneious software (version 7.1.3). Results Adults of Cx. cinctellus were identified in Bird-Baited Traps and human bait collections. Unique morphological characteristics, including well-developed pulvilli, wing vein 1A ending before the apex of cross vein mcu, basal transverse pale bands on abdominal terga, and two labial basal setae on the proboscis, confirmed species identity. Morphometric measurements included mean thoracic length (0.58±0.02) mm, thoracic width (0.63±0.02) mm, abdominal length (2.15±0.03) mm, abdominal width (0.61±0.01) mm, and wing length (2.91±0.02) mm. Molecular analysis corroborated the morphological identification, affirming the species as Cx. cinctellus . COI sequences of the collected specimen (452 bp) were confirmed as Cx. cinctellus for sequence identity by BLAST and BOLD analysis. These sequences were subsequently deposited in GenBank under the accession number OR225623.1. Conclusions This study documents the first occurrence of Cx. cinctellus in Sri Lanka, highlighting the need to enhance entomological surveillance to monitor its dispersal and population dynamics.

The amount of fruits and vegetables produced in Uzbekistan not only meets the demands of the republic's citizens, but also exports its high-quality goods to other countries. The work displays the findings of the thermogravimetric examination and computation of the kinetic parameters of fruits (apricots and plums) and vegetables (carrots and potatoes). When studying the kinetics of the process, the Wahuski-Voboril and Erofeev models were used, and a calculation program was given. For the first period, corresponding to the stage of drying fruits and vegetables, the best accuracy of 7.8% is given by the Wahuski-Voboril model. For the second and subsequent periods of the thermal decomposition process, the Erofeev model gives the largest error of 5.9.

In this work, the results of the development of a general classification scheme, the main food processing processes are presented; It is well known that expanding the size of the working components of machines and installations and decreasing downtime are two ways to attain high productivity of these equipment and installations in food production. More efficient intensive techniques by speeding up procedures and so cutting down on their duration using methods of semantic-system analysis of food processing processes, such as fruits and vegetables, and a general classification scheme for the main food processing processes is obtained. Also, unified classification scheme for the main food processing processes used in the development of machines and devices for creating conditions that ensure the effective implementation of food processing processes has been obtained.

A number of climate change adaptation measures need to be in place through policy interventions to help Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to develop disaster risk-sensitive operation strategies. The purpose of this study was to analyse the implementation of disaster and climate risk-sensitive business continuity plans of selected SMEs in the post-COVID19 context in Sri Lanka. This study was carried out in the post-COVID19 period and in a context of multiple socio-economic shocks in addition to the existing climate and disaster risks. This case study identified flood/heavy rain, heavy wind, drought/water scarcity, and heat waves as climate change drivers for disaster risks to SMEs in the Northern and Eastern provinces of Sri Lanka. A number of key risk management strategies for potential disaster/climate risks in the SME sector were explored from this study. This study found that the level of awareness of such disaster risk-sensitive strategies, primarily the risk mitigation measures need to be systematically inculcated in the studied sectors of SMEs (handloom and food/vegetable processing) in Sri Lanka. The COVID19 pandemic and the post-economic crisis have created an opportunity to promote risk-sensitive SMEs operational plans.

Burnout, depression, anxiety, and stress are overlapping, yet distinct constructs. Mental health problems like depression and anxiety can occur as a consequence of burnout. Resilience, on the other hand, can potentially protect against burnout as well as its mental health consequences. This study aimed to explore the relationship between burnout, depression, anxiety, stress, and resilience among healthcare workers (HCWs), and to investigate the moderating role of resilience against the mental health correlates of burnout. For this purpose, using a cross-sectional design, 318 HCWs from various categories (nurses, midwives, doctors, etc.) recruited from hospital and community settings in two Districts of Sri Lanka during the COVID-19 pandemic were surveyed using the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory (CBI), Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21), and the Brief Resilience Scale. CBI assessed three domains: personal burnout, work burnout and client burnout. The prevalence of personal, work, and client burnout were 26.4%, 12.9%, and 7.9%, respectively. The prevalence of low, normal, and high resilience was 25.6%, 66.2%, and 8.6%, respectively. All three burnout domains correlated positively with depression, anxiety, and stress. Resilience correlated inversely with all burnout domains and DASS-21 scores. In moderator analysis, higher levels of resilience dampened the effects of client burnout on anxiety, but resilience moderated the psychological consequences of personal burnout in the opposite direction. Our findings indicate notable rates of burnout among Sri Lankan HCWs, and suggest a possible buffering role of resilience against burnout and its psychological consequences.

In worldwide Siddha system of medicine nowadays become most important medicine, it has fewer side effects in chronic usage. Therefore, in medicines of Siddha system should emphasis their Indications, Contraindications and cautions. The trial drug Saaranai chooranam has been mentioned in siddha literature of “Agasthiyar erandayiram – Part-III” for the management of Raththa kothippu (Systemic hypertension). Primary objective of study to evaluate the Hypolipidemic activity of saaranai chooranamagainst atherogenic diet induced hyperlipidemia in experimental rats. This Observational in vivo study carried out Arulmigu Kalasalingam College of Pharmacy, Tamil Nadu, India. The trial drug contains equal ratio of Saaranai Root and Inthuppu, with adjuvant Ghee or Jagarry. All animals starved for 18 hours and provided water ad libitumbefore the experiment. The animals were divided into five groups of six rats each. Group I served as normal control administered with 2% Carboxy Methyl Cellulose only, Group II served as hyperlipidemic control rats received atherogenic diet, Group III and IV served as test groups received Saaranai Chooranam 200mg/kg and Saaranai Chooranam 400mg/kg respectively. Group V served as Atorvastatin (10mg/kg/day) considered as standard. All the groups except the normal control group administered received atherogenic diet After inducing the hyperlipidemia, the respective treatment was continued for 7 days. Animals were given standard pellet diet and water ad libitum. The next day after the completion of experimental study, the blood was taken from the rats, Liver lipid extraction, Biochemical analysis, Histopathology. The data were statistically analyzed by one-way ANOVA followed by Dennett’s t-test, and value P < 0.05 was considered to be significant. The results obtained from the pharmacological screening have led to the conclusions that, Saaranai chooranam has significant antihyperlipidemic activity. Hence it can be exploited as antihyperlipidemic therapeutic agent or adjuvant in existing therapy for the treatment of hyperlipidemia. Keywords: Saaranai chooranam, Raththa kothippu, Hyperlipidemia, Akasthiyar erandayirum.

Yellow oleander (Cascabela thevetia, previously known as Thevetia peruviana) & Common oleander (Nerium oleander) contain a wide range of cardiac glycosides and their toxicity is similar to digoxin toxicity. It causes arrhythmogenesis by directly and indirectly influencing cardiac myocytes. Oleander poisoning leads to high morbidity and mortality, causing considerable healthcare burden worldwide. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to synthesize evidence from studies reporting the effects of electrocardiographic and biochemical changes following acute oleander toxicity. It will contribute to identifying the true incidence of electrocardiographic and electrolyte changes which will be useful in-patient management and clinical decisions. Electronic databases, Google Scholar, and reference lists of relevant articles will be searched. Human studies reporting electrolyte and electrocardiographic changes following acute yellow oleander and common oleander toxicity globally from 1988 onwards will be included. The eligibility of studies will be checked by two reviewers independently, and the risk of bias will be evaluated for each study using the JBI critical appraisal tool. The Rayyan software will be used for the systematic review while heterogeneity of studies will be assessed using I² statistics. In the case of I2 > 50%, meta-analysis will be conducted using a random effects model using STATA software. Publication bias will be assessed using visual inspection of funnel plots & Egger’s weighted regression. The incidence of electrocardiographic and biochemical changes following oleander poisoning will directly influence patient management and guide improvements in healthcare facilities. Although ethical approval is not required for the systematic review, it will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications, index journals, and scientific conferences. PROSPERO registration PROSPERO registration number for this protocol is CRD42023451171

This paper is devoted to the study of protein synthesis by selected basidiomycete fungi-producers Pleurotus ostreatus and Aspergillus oryzae using microbiological methods with the aim of increasing the amount of protein in feeds during the preparation of balanced, protein-rich compound feeds for fish farming. It was identified that Pleurotus ostreatus and Aspergillus oryzae mushrooms have been shown to increase the amount of protein by 32.18% in 7 days, while Aspergillus oryzae mushrooms have been shown to increase the amount of protein by 168% in 7 days. - by 29.66%. Considering that the fish's need for protein is 30-35%, the fish's need for protein can be met with feeds with an increased protein content of 32.18%. Macroscopic fungi predominantly exhibit protein and enzymatic activity from 5-7 days growth. Since feed products are mainly polysaccharides, the growth and development of microorganisms in them, as well as the production of products, takes a certain period of time

This research paper presents the results of studying the effect of hydrothermal processing on the technological properties of autumn "Vakhshskaya-116" rye grown in a dry climate. The research was carried out using the general and modern chemical and physico-chemical methods specified in the "Rules for organization and management of technological processes in mills". Hydrothermal treatment of "Vakhshskaya-116" rye grain grown in dry climate showed 14.5-15% moisture, 64.77-64.80% flour yield after 6-8 hours of soaking, and 177-179 units of amylolytic activity (fall number). The results of this experiment confirmed the results presented in Table 1, entitled Effect of hydrothermal treatment on the amylolytic activity of "Vakhshskaya-116" rye grain. During the preparation of autumn "Vakhshskaya-116" variety rye grown in dry climatic conditions for flour weighing, its moisture content is 14.5-15%; 6-8 hours of soaking time has been found to be the most effective.

The prediction of compressive strength is crucial, as it is influenced by various mix parameters such as aggregate size, aggregate-to-cement ratio, and compaction. Accurate forecasting of strength ensures optimized mix designs, enhancing both performance and material efficiency in construction projects. The novelty of this study lies in integrating machine learning techniques to predict the compressive strength of pervious concrete, incorporating these key parameters to improve predictive accuracy and facilitate more precise and sustainable mix design choices. For the experimental study, 600 samples were prepared with varying aggregate-to-cement ratios (3.0–5.0), compaction (0–60 blows from standard proctor rammer), and aggregate size (4.75–25 mm) and monitored for porosity and compressive strength. A modified Ryshkewitch model is assessed alongside experimental evaluations to improve mix design optimization. The effect of parameter variability on compressive strength is assessed to investigate the uncertainty propagation. Key uncertainties are highlighted by sensitivity analysis, and output distributions are produced by Monte Carlo simulations, reducing uncertainty is essential for practical applications, as it guarantees that compressive strength forecasts remain constant across a range of materials and environmental circumstances. In addition, machine learning and neural network models were analyzed for accuracy. Incorporating porosity in compressive strength prediction enhanced the R² of empirical and neural network models from 0.63 and 0.78 to 0.92, respectively, while uncertainty was comparable to experimental observations. Aggregate size-based models improved performance by more than 0.95 for all cases, insisting on the dominant impact of aggregate size on prediction models. The research concludes that the optimized mix designs not only improve compressive strength but also promote sustainability by reducing material waste and enhancing the durability of pervious concrete. These findings provide valuable insights for more efficient and environmentally friendly concrete mix designs in urban infrastructure projects.

Background Naphthalene is an aromatic hydrocarbon that potentially produces methemoglobinaemia but rarely causes hemolysis, especially in children with underlying glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency. Although ingestion of a single moth ball by an older child may not be life threatening, it can be fatal if ingested by a toddler. Case presentation A 2-year-old Singhalese boy developed acute severe hemolysis and methemoglobinaemia following ingestion of a mothball. On admission, the patient was ill and pale. The child was tachycardic and tachypnoiec with oxygen saturation of 76% on air. Blood investigations showed significant anemia, elevated reticulocytes, and evidence of hemolysis in a blood picture, along with elevated lactate dehydrogenase and indirect bilirubin. Child also had ST depressions on electrocardiogram examination with negative troponin-I. He was given four packed red blood cell (PRBC) transfusions and was successfully discharged in 3 days time following optimal supportive treatment. A glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase assay confirmed the diagnosis of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency in this child: 0.9 U/gHb (4.0–13.0 U/gHb). Conclusion This case report highlights a rare life-threatening presentation of naphthalene ingestion in a child with previously undiagnosed glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency. Ingestion of even a single moth ball can be fatal in vulnerable children given the altered toxicokinetics of naphthalene in children.

Objectives This study aimed to analyse the epidemiological patterns of paediatric snake bites in Sri Lanka over a 4-year period (2020–2024). Methods A multi-centre, retrospective observational study was conducted from June 2020 to June 2024 across nine governmental hospitals in seven provinces of Sri Lanka. Data were collected based on 757 children presenting with snake bites. The snake bites were analysed based on age, gender, and seasonal variations. Data on the type of snake involved, geographic variations and the temporal trends in snake bite occurrences were also analysed. Results The mean age of the 757 children recruited to the study was 10.3 years (SD—5.00, range—0.1–17 years). Males (57.7%) were significantly more affected than females (42.3%) (p < 0.05). Visual identification confirmed the snake species in 58.4% of cases. The hump-nosed viper (16.7%), Russell’s viper (14.7%), and common krait (12.9%) were the most common medically important snakes identified in the study. Seasonal peaks in snake bites occurred in May–July and November–December. An increasing trend in snake bite incidence was noted over the first three years, with a slight decline in the final year. Conclusion Paediatric snake bites in Sri Lanka show significant age, gender, and seasonal patterns. Targeted public health interventions are needed to mitigate the impact on children.

Context: Scopolin and scopoletin belong to the class of coumarins and have experimentally proven natural antioxidants. Natural antioxidants are crucial in mitigating the impact of oxidants in the human body through radical scavenging. Even though scopolin and scopoletin are proven antioxidants by experimental results, their antioxidant mechanisms still remained unexplained. In this study, Density functional theory (DFT) calculations were used to study the radical scavenging mechanisms of both scopolin and scopoletin using kinetic and thermodynamics parameters. The global parameters indicated that both scopolin and scopoletin have antioxidant properties. The band gap energy ( Δ E HOMO - LUMO ) revealed that scopoletin (4.18 eV) has strong antioxidant activity compared to scopolin (4.31 eV). These studies found that hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) is the primary mechanism for CH3OO• radical scavenging at the C-H bond in scopolin (91.98 kcal.mol-1) and the O-H bond in scopoletin (77.05 kcal.mol-1) due to their lowest bond dissociation energies. The calculated activation energy ( E a ) for the radical scavenging reaction, reconfirmed scopoletin ( E a =11.19 kcal.mol-1) performed as a better antioxidant compared to scopolin ( E a =20.91 kcal.mol-1). In this study, the results of DFT calculations confirmed that scopoletin exhibits a higher antioxidant capacity, and HAT mechanism is the most effective radical scavenging mechanism. Methods: The antioxidant activity of scopolin and scopoletin was determined by DFT at the B3LYP/6-31G(d) level of theory. Global parameter calculations and frontier molecular orbital analysis were conducted to assess these compounds' capacity for scavenging radicals. Hydrogen atom transfer (HAT), sequential electron transfer proton transfer (SETPT), and sequential proton loss electron transfer (SPLET) mechanisms were the three main mechanisms that were taken into consideration. The potential energy surface (PES) verified the most appropriate processes shown by the enthalpy calculations.

The study of the interactions of polyelectrolytes with organic ions, in particular bolaform ions, that is, having a mirror conformational chemical structural symmetry with respect to the centre of the molecule and exhibiting physiological activity, is particularly intriguing due to its potential for simulating biological processes and its implications for the development of novel polymer therapeutic systems. These systems possess unique features that distinguish them from low-molecular-weight medicines. Of the large assortment of polymers used for these purposes, the most convenient “substrate” is considered to be synthetic polyelectrolytes that are easily adjustable during production, possessing active functional groups for binding organic ions and the property of good solubility in water. The objects of research were an antibacterial agent, aethonium, and a drug, imidocarb, widely used in veterinary practice, which, when dissolved in water, forms complex bolaform cations and an industrially developed polymer, polymethacrylic acid. In order to develop a prolonged dosage form for veterinary medicine, the binding of these substances to a selected synthetic polymer was studied using physical and chemical methods. IR spectroscopy has proven the “soft” immobilization of the studied organic ions on polymethacrylic acid. Factors influencing the immobilization process have been established: the ratio of reagents, the nature of the solvent and temperature, and the thermodynamic parameters of the studied process.

In this article, polymerization processes are carried out under various physicochemical conditions. The reaction medium can be a solution of the polymer in a monomer or solvent with a viscosity from 10⁻³ to 10² -10³ Pa, a suspension of solid polymer particles in a hydrocarbon diluent or water with a polymer concentration from 10 to 60%, aqueous dispersions, gas systems solid. Thermodynamic conditions and kinetic characteristics can also vary within wide limits: temperature from 70 to 300 °C, and contact time from tens of seconds to several hours. Polymerization processes typically involve significant heat release (60-100 kJ/mol). In a number of cases, directly or indirectly, temperature and hydrodynamic (shear) conditions affect the molecular weight distribution or dispersed composition of polymer particles and, thus, determine the physical and mechanical properties of the polymer. Naturally, the implementation of the necessary temperature, concentration, and hydrodynamic conditions depends on the design and type of reactor.

The ongoing transformation of maritime transportation towards autonomous and remotely controlled ships is fueled by technological advancements like Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, Internet of Things, sensors, and robotics, coupled with the integration of 5G and other communication technologies. While the emphasis on port automation precedes that of autonomous ships, the prevailing trend in technology-driven industries has spurred ports to embrace innovations, leading to a growing inclination towards various forms of automation. Some terminals are purposefully designed and constructed as automated terminals, while existing terminals are also undergoing transformations to become semi-or fully automated. Despite the success of a few ports and terminals in implementing automation, such instances remain relatively scarce on a global scale. The knowledge derived from these endeavors is crucial for the overall enhancement of the port sector, providing insights to effectively address associated challenges. In light of this, the current study adopts an inductive research methodology, specifically grounded theory, to develop a case study centered around Busan Port to shed light on the unique challenges encountered while navigating this transformative landscape. As the largest container port in the Republic of Korea and a significant hub port in the East Asian region, the challenges associated with port automation in Busan primarily revolve around human resources and technology. Notably, most terminals in Busan are far from addressing futuristic challenges such as environmental sustainability and the facilitation of autonomous ships.

Background: Deliberate self-harm (DSH) by poisoning is a significant public health concern worldwide. This study aimed to analyze the demographic, socioeconomic, and psychological factors contributing to self-harm by poisoning in patients admitted to a tertiary care hospital in Sri Lanka. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 101 patients admitted to the hospital for poisoning-related self-harm. Data was collected through a structured questionnaire. Variables such as age, gender, educational background, employment status, income levels, substance abuse history, type of poisons used, sources of knowledge about self-harm methods, immediate stressors, and other few possible factors were analyzed. Results: The majority of patients, 55 (54.5%), were between the ages of 18 and 29. Fifty-five women (54.5%) slightly outnumbered 46 men (45.5%). More than half of the included patients had an educational background of up to ordinary level exam, while 58 were unemployed (57.4%), including dependents. Lower income levels were associated with higher rates of self-harm. Substance abuse, particularly alcohol, was prevalent in 34 (33.7%) of cases. The most commonly used poison was yellow oleander, reported in 38 (37.6%) of cases. The study also found that a majority, 53 (52.5%), learned about self-harm methods through community engagement. Immediate stressors, including arguments with parents, 29 (28.7%), and conflicts with spouses, 19 (18.8%), were significant triggers. Most patients, 76 (75.2%), were admitted to the hospital within six hours of poisoning. Half of the patients, 50 (50%), reported that immediate stressors directly related to the COVID-19 pandemic significantly influenced their decision to self-harm. Regarding patient outcomes, the study found that nearly all patients, 100 (99%), were successfully discharged from the hospital after treatment. Conclusion: This study provides valuable insights into the factors contributing to DSH by poisoning in a Sri Lankan context. Targeted interventions addressing the identified risk factors, along with broader public health strategies, are essential to reduce the incidence of self-harm.

This article explains the synthesis of three Schiff base Cu(II) complexes derived from 3‐hydroxybenzaldehyde and ethylenediamine using three distinct copper anionic salts, and it explores the effects of those salts on the properties of the complexes. Elemental analysis, electronic spectra, FT‐IR, ESR, molar conductance, magnetic measurement, thermogravimetric analysis and PXRD were used to characterize the compounds. The anionic salt has been demonstrated to exhibit distinctive characteristics on Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria in terms of structure, DNA binding, cell viability, DNA breakage and activity. Furthermore, this ligand L1 and its derivatives indicated positive antifungal efficacy against Aspergillus niger and Trichophyton tonsurans. The study elucidates the manner in which distinct anion salts impacted the properties of complexes and their antifungal, anticancer and antibacterial outcomes.

This research explores the impact of budget deficits on inflation in Sri Lanka from 1990 to 2022, examining both long-term and short-term effects. The study uses statistical methods like unit root tests and econometric models, including the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model and the Error Correction Model (ECM), to assess the reliability and stability of these relationships. Inflation is the dependent variable, with budget deficits as the primary independent variable, and money supply, interest rates, and unemployment rates as secondary variables. Findings indicate an inverse relationship between budget deficits and long-term inflation, while money supply and unemployment rates positively affect inflation. In the short term, previous year’s money supply, budget deficit, and unemployment rates are negatively correlated with inflation. However, the previous year’s budget deficit and the current year’s unemployment rate significantly increase short-run inflation. Interest rates do not significantly impact inflation in either the short or long term. This study, through historical data analysis and econometric techniques, aims to clarify these impacts, enhancing understanding of Sri Lanka’s macroeconomic dynamics and aiding policymakers in sustainable economic management.