iPURSE 2021

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://ir.lib.pdn.ac.lk/handle/20.500.14444/35

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Knowledge, attitude, motivational factors and barriers for donating blood voluntarily among people aged between 18-55 years living in Manmunaipattu, Batticaloa
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2021-11-11) Kajenthini, K.; Madhuwanthi, L.D.M; Chandrika, J.P.M; Jayarathna, A.P.G.S.M
According to global data, there is a gradual decline in voluntary blood donations throughout the past decade. Increase in the life expectancy, rates of accidents and specialized surgeries have increased the rate of blood usage. It has become a global need to study on blood donation to obtain safe blood from the donors. The statistics available in the blood bank, Batticaloa number of voluntary blood donors are very less in all divisions. A cross sectional descriptive study was conducted by using an interviewed administered questionnaire, anonymous questionnaire to determine the knowledge, attitude, motivational factors and barriers among people in selected Grama Niladhari Divisions in Manmunaipattu. Simple random sampling method was used to select the sample. Validity of the study instrument was done by primary supervisor of our study, medical officer and nursing-in-charge attached to the blood bank. The ethical clearance was obtained from Ethical Review Committee, Faculty of Health care sciences, Eastern University. Data was entered, analyzed and interpreted using SPSS version 19. This study included 405 randomly selected participants with age range from 18-55 years with the mean age of 30(SD 7.8). Majority of them were females (52.1%), married (48.9%), Tamils Hindu (89.4%) and had secondary education (92.9%).33.1% of them had previous experience on voluntary blood donation. 51.36% had adequate knowledge on eligible criteria for blood donors.92.3% of them answered positively as blood donation is a healthy habit. Altruism, peer pressure was significant motivational factors, in which the majority accepted donating blood as social responsibility. 55% of them responded that fear of seeing blood, fear of needle pain and fear of gaining weight were major barriers for not to donate blood voluntarily. Motivating the individuals from the society for voluntary blood donation through conducting series of well-planned awareness programme is a novel finding of this study.
Effectiveness of yoga exercises to improve attention and concentration of athletes in Holy Angels Girls College, Kuliyapitiya, Sri Lanka
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2021-11-11) Piyumika, T.; Gunasekara, K.C.; Weerasinghe, S.
This study was conducted to explore the effect of yoga exercises to maintain attention and concentration of the school athletes during sports training. A sample of 60 athletes (netball/athletics/cricket) aged 13-15 years were selected using stratified random sampling and randomly assigned to control and treatment groups (n=30 per group). Participants of both the groups engaged in their respective sports training as usual. The treatment group underwent three yoga sessions per week for 03 months. All participants completed the Test of Attention and Concentration (TACL) before and after a training programme. TACL focuses on broad external attention (BET), broad internal attention (BIT), narrow effective focus (NAR), external overload attention (OET), internal overload attention (OIT), and errors of under-inclusion (RED). Paired t-test was used to compare between attention and concentration of athletes before and after training. According to results, pre- and post-test scores of the treatment group were significantly different (P<0.05) with respect to OIT (P=0.000), NAR (P=0.000), BIT (P=0.008) and RED (P=0.001) whereas no differences existed between scores for BET and OET. In contrast, pre- and post-scores of all tested traits did not differ (P>0.05) in control group. Thus, the proposed yoga session improved athletes‘ ability to concentrate on more than one task and effectively narrowed the attention/concentration focus, while reducing the difficulty of broadening attention focus and diminishing the tendency for internal overloading. In conclusion, the yoga training programme had a positive effect on concentration and attention of the sample.
Effect of cycling on albuminuria
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2021-11-11) Kodagoda, K.I.U.; Wickramarachchi, W.K.D.S.A.; Weerarathne, L.R.N.D.; Senarathne, U.D.
Albuminuria is a presence of abnormal amounts of albumin in urine that is considered as a sign of defective glomerular membrane. It can also be benign when present due to physical exercise; called ̳exercise induced albuminuria‘ which is reversible. Prime aim of this study was to identify the effect of cycling on urine albumin excretion. A quasi experimental research design was used for the study with an interventional approach. 12 –professional cyclists from Naval-base, Welisara were selected using total population sampling. Urine Albumin to Creatinine Ratio (ACR) was used to assess albuminuria before and after training sessions. Workout intensity was measured by calculations done using post training pulse rate. Hydration level was measured using the body weight loss, water intake and the urine volume passed. Paired t-test was used to analyze data from pre and post-test ACR levels. Pearson correlation test was used to identify the relationship between hydration level measured by sweating rate, and ACR increase, between intensity and ACR increase and between pre-test ACR level and post-test ACR level. There was a significant difference between pre session urine ACR and post session ACR (P=0.026). There was a positive correlation between the ACR difference and the intensity (p=0.002, r=0.793). There was no significant relationship between hydration level measured by sweating rate and the ACR difference (p=0.353, r=0.295)). There was a positive relationship between pre-session ACR and post-session ACR levels (p=0.000, r=0.987). The post exercise urine ACR was calculated to be 1.305 mg/mmol which was within the normal range according to the NICE Guidelines (2008) – UK though the amount had been increased. It was increased up to micro-albuminuria level. Testing urine albumin excretion 24-48 hours after training would be better to confirm recovery of athletes to ensure whether there is no negative effect of training on renal function.
Relationship between gym training and albuminuria among female gym trainees
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2021-11-11) Kodagoda, K.I.U.; Wickramarachchi, W.K.D.S.A.; Weerarathne, L.R.N.D.; Senarathne, U.D.
Albuminuria is presence of abnormal amounts of albumin in urine that is considered as a sign of defective glomerular membrane. It can also be benign when present due to physical exercise; 'called exercise induced albuminuria‘ which is reversible. Prime aim of this study was to identify the effect of gym training on urine-albumin excretion. A quasi-experimental research design was used for the study with an interventional approach. 30 female gym trainees in Gampaha divisional secretariat division were selected using proportionate stratified random sampling. Urine Albumin to Creatinine Ratio (ACR) was used to assess albuminuria before and after training sessions. Workout intensity was measured by calculations done using post-training pulse rate. Hydration level was measured using body weight loss, water intake and urine volume passed. Pearson correlation was used to identify the relationship between hydration level measured by sweating rate, and ACR increase, between intensity and ACR increase and between pre-session ACR level and post-session ACR level. There was a significant difference between pre-session urine ACR and post-session ACR (P=0.002). There was a positive correlation between ACR difference and intensity (p=0.003, r=0.521). There was no significant relationship between sweating rate and ACR difference (p=0.379, r=- 0.182)). There was a positive relationship between pre-session ACR and post-session ACR levels (p=0.010, r=0.473). According to the statistical analysis, the mean value of pre-exercise albumin level of the gym trainees was 1.147 mg/mmol indicating that their average urinary albumin excretion is within the accepted normal range. The post- exercise urine ACR was found as 3.293 mg/mmol indicating that urinary albumin excretion has increased to the range of micro-albuminuria following exercise according to the NICE Guidelines (2008) – UK. Testing urine albumin excretion 24-48 hours after training would be better to confirm recovery of athletes to ensure whether there is no negative effect of training on renal function.
Importance of radiographic measurements in diagnosis of megaesophagus in dogs and their association with hypothyroidism
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2021-11-11) Dharmaratne, G.K.; Gunathilaka, G.A.D.K.K.; Ranasinghe, R.A.V.S. J.; Abeykoon, C.; De Silva, D.D.N.
Megaoesophagus is a disorder of the oesophagus in human and other mammals, in which the oesophagus is enlarged abnormally. Lack of normal peristaltic movements, paralysis of oesophageal musculature or obstructions are the causes of this condition. Megaoesophagus could arise secondary to underline conditions such as hypothyroidism, immune mediated diseases, and congenital conditions etc. Plain thoracic radiography is useful in the diagnosis of megaoesophagus in dogs as the delineation of the oesophageal wall is well visualized. The objective of the current study is to find the association between the Relative Oesophageal Diameters (ROD) with proven cases of hypothyroidism. ROD is the ratio between Thoracic Inlet Diameter and average oesophageal diameter (OD). Medical records of twenty dogs with megaoesophagus admitted to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Peradeniya from 2020 to 2021 February, were reviewed. The OD was measured in each left lateral radiograph using the image processing software (FCR PRIMA V Console). The measurements were taken in parallel with a line drawn perpendicular to the midpoint of the body of each thoracic vertebra (T1-T10). Also, four radiographic findings, the triangular air column in cervical oesophagus, trachea-oesophageal stripe sign, diffuse oesophageal dilatation and aspiration pneumonia were assessed. In comparison, 6 cases of proven hypothyroidism (T4 levels < 1.0 μg/dL) showed severe oesophageal dilatation as evident in the radiographs. Two sample t test (α = 5%), showed there is a significant difference between the mean ROD values of hypothyroidism cases and non-hypothyroidism cases (P=0.0452). In addition, the radiographic findings, the triangular air column in cervical oesophagus and trachea-oesophageal stripe sign were also prominent. It is concluded that ROD could be used to confirm that megaoesophagus is caused by hypothyroidism.
Assessment of the burden of uncollected test reports at the laboratory of teaching hospital Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2021-11-11) Nimanthika, T.V.I.; Wijetunge, S.
Uncollected laboratory test reports are a major problem in clinical laboratories in Sri Lanka. Apart from the negative effects on patient management, this is a waste of financial and human resources. Although this is a well-known problem in Sri Lankan government hospitals, there are no published studies to assess the scale of the problem. Hence, a cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted intending to assess the number of uncollected laboratory reports and the reasons for non-collection in the Teaching Hospital, Peradeniya (THP). All uncollected test reports in all laboratory sections at THP during the year 2019 were included in the study. The total number of uncollected test reports at THP during 2019 was 25,716 (2.43%). The number of uncollected reports from biochemistry, haematology, immunology, microbiology, urine analysis, histology/cytology and serology sections were 15,591 (60.6%), 6,952 (27.0%), 1,066 (4.1%), 880 (3.4%), 832 (3.2%), 275 (1.1%) and 120 (0.5%), respectively. The highest number of uncollected test reports were observed for Full Blood Count (FBC) test (5,434, 2.78%) and the highest percentage was identified for Ferritin reports (161, 26.52%). The other tests with higher rates of non-collection were Serum Electrophoresis (19.76%), Free T3 (19.04%), HbA1c (11.48%) TSH (10.20%) and PSA (10.11%). Improper filling of the sample request form i.e. illegible hand writing, not writing the name of the patient properly, not including the sampling unit, and poor patient awareness on the importance of the clinical laboratory tests were some of the identified reasons for non-collection. In conclusion, 2.4% of the reports have not been collected and the highest percentages were observed for routine tests such as FBC test. Significant percentages of the non-collection were observed for more costly immunological tests. The establishment of an appropriate Laboratory Information Management Systems possibly will improve this problem.
Camp test versus Dc-PCR in diagnosis of group B streptococcus infection in pregnant women
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2021-11-11) Suranimala, W.M.D.H.; Karunarathna, H.M.T.K.; Kottawatta, K.S.A.; Kodithuwakku, S.P.; Weerasekara, W.G.N.D.; Premaratne, S.; Ratnayake, R.M.C.J.
Group B Streptococcus (GBS) colonizes in the gastrointestinal and genitourinary tract of pregnant women and infect babies during labor. Thus, prenatal GBS screening of pregnant women at term is recommended. Culture based Christie, Atkins, Munch- Petersen (CAMP) test has been using as gold standard in detection of GBS. However, it has drawbacks like longer turn over time and false negative results. Therefore, we aimed to develop a duplex colony polymerase chain reaction (DC-PCR) to detect GBS specific genes: atr (encodes protein amino acid transporter gbs0538) and cfb (encodes CAMP factor) for rapid diagnosis of GBS while comparing the outcomes with CAMP test. First using Streptococcus agalactiae ATCC 12386, the DC- PCR was established to detect the atr and cfb genes using gene specific primers. Thereafter recto-vaginal swabs were taken from women over 35 weeks (n=150) at term pregnancy who were admitted to Teaching Hospital, Peradeniya. Swabs were transferred to laboratory in Todd-Hewitt broth and cultured on blood agar plates supplemented with gentamycin. Suspected colonies were tested with established DC-PCR and CAMP test. Antimicrobial resistant profiles of GBS isolates were detected. CAMP test, DC-PCR:cfb, DC-PCR:atr identified GBS colonization as 21.33% (32/150), 28% (42/150) and 30.67 (46/150) respectively. Presence of atr gene and CAMP test results and presence of cfb gene and CAMP test results were used for calculation of sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive values separately; those values were 100%, 88.14%, 69.57%, 100% and 100%, 91.53%, 76.19%, 100% respectively. The GBS isolates demonstrated resistant to chloramphenicol (17.40%), ampillicin (41.30%), cefotaxime (43.48%), erythromycin (56.52%), and clindamycin (56.52%). Overall, results suggest that the use of atr gene detection is better than use of cfb gene in PCR and both targets can perform well over CAMP test. Further AMR data highlight the necessity of practicing prudent use of antimicrobials in the clinical settings.
Measuring the diameter of abdominal aorta using contrast enhanced computed tomography in relation to age and sex
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2021-11-11) Udupihille, J.J.K.H.; Amarathunga, M.M.; Arunodi, L.K.S.; Athukorala, A.E.S.; Bamunuarachchi, B.A.R.A.A.; Bandara, H.M.K.V.P.; Bandaranayaka, H.M.T.N.; Buddhika, N.M.T.; Chalangana, G.K.D.; Chandika, K.K.G.K.; Charukeshi, K.K.G.K.
This study is a descriptive type cross sectional study. This is aimed at evaluating physiological variation of the abdominal aortic diameter. Objectives of this study are to measure the abdominal aortic diameter of the study group in relation to age and sex and to find out the influence of the age and sex on the diameter of the abdominal aorta. This is a retrospective study which was conducted on 55 patients (25 women, 30 men) who underwent abdominal contrast enhanced Computed Tomography (CT) scans for various abdominal pathologies. Computer based entries of the patients‘ records were used to obtain data for the study. The internal anteroposterior and transverse diameters of the abdominal aorta were measured at the suprarenal and infrarenal levels. Mean age of the study group was 54.58 ± 16.75 years. Mean anteroposterior aortic diameter was 16.1±2.3 mm while mean transverse aortic diameter was 16.6±2.2 mm at the suprarenal level. Mean anteroposterior aortic diameter is 14.8 ± 1.9 mm and mean transverse aortic diameter is 14.8±1.8 mm at the infrarenal level. Independent t test was used to compare the mean value of the abdominal aortic diameter at the suprarenal and infrarenal levels between males and females. Mean anteroposterior suprarenal aortic diameter in males was 17.1 ± 2.1 mm while it was 15 ± 2.2 mm in females (p <0.001). Mean transverse suprarenal aortic diameter in males was 17.7± 2 mm while it was 15.4± 2 mm in females (p<0.001). According to the Pearson correlation coefficient, abdominal aortic diameter and the age was found to have significant correlation at 0.01 level (2-tailed). Abdominal aortic diameter has a significant correlation with age. Females have lesser abdominal aortic diameter than males. This pilot study can be improved by expanding into a multicenter study involving larger number of subjects.
Knowledge, practice and attitudes of pharmacists towards dispensing antibiotics in Sri Lanka
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2021-11-11) Waththuhewa, C.S.T.; Galpin-Lebreau, E.; Rajakaruna, R.S.
Antibiotic resistance is one of the biggest threats to global health today. Although antibiotic resistance occurs naturally, misuse is accelerating the process. Community pharmacists, owing to their role in dispensing antibiotics must be knowledgeable about the issue and actively involved in the solution. This study was designed to determine the knowledge, practices and attitudes (KPAs) of pharmacists towards dispensing antibiotics. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in eight districts (Anuradhapura, Gampaha, Kandy, Kurunegala, Kegalle, Matara, Matale and Puttalam) covering 80 drug outlets/pharmacies. A pretested semi-structured questionnaire gathered information from the pharmacists through interviews after obtaining verbal consent. There were 37 males and 43 females, among which only 36% were qualified pharmacists while the others who were involved in dispensing drugs were the owner of the outlet (17%), manager (5%), and sales associate (38%). Few (4%) claimed that they did not have proper status. Dispensing antibiotics without proper prescription was reported in all the outlets visited in the Anuradapura and Kurunagala districts while about half of those in the rest of the districts. However, in Matara district, only 10% of the respondents claimed that customers request antibiotics without a prescription. The majority of the respondents (60%) had scored 50% or more for the questions assessing KPAs. Level of education and years of experience did not have a relationship with the KPA score. However, the employment status of the respondent significantly contributed to the KPA scores (Fisher's Exact test, p=0.0025), designated pharmacists scoring higher. The observation checklist had noted that at some outlets, the guidelines for storage of drugs were not practiced. Survey results show that employing proper pharmacists in dispensing drugs is important in preventing misuse of antibiotics and maximizing the utility of available drugs. The importance of conducting pharmacist-directed antibiotic stewardship programs is therefore highlighted.
Factors affecting perceived stress: a study of first-year undergraduates of Eastern University, Sri Lanka
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2021-11-11) Alahakoon, A.M.S.S.; Arulanandem, K.; Savinthani, K.W.N.; Smarasinghe, S.P.E.G.; Ahamed, A.H.R.; Jayaweera, R.M.N.
Stress is associated with limitations in higher education and negatively affects academic performance, physical health, and psychological wellbeing of students. This cross- sectional study addressed factors that are associated with perceived stress (PS), their prevalence, and the correlation to PS. From the first-years, 333 were selected representing all 7 faculties of the Eastern University, Sri Lanka using a simple random sampling technique. A Self-administered questionnaire was used to gather data. Frequencies and correlations with PS with regard to academic, physiological, social, psychological, and environmental factors were analyzed using Pearson correlation coefficient. Among the participants difficulty to deal with academic problems (13.1%), and studying for long hours (23.5%), too much academic work load (24.1%), poor performance at lectures (5.2%), and boredom felt when attending regular lectures (8.8%) were identified as academic factors significantly correlating with PS. Frequent headaches (12.2%), problems related to gastrointestinal system (5.5%), sleep related issues (14.3%), respiration (2.1%), cardiac (1.5%) and urinary (3.4%) systems related issues, poor appetite (13.4%), and fatigue and tiredness (12.2%) were the physiological factors (p<0.05) that significantly correlated with PS. Lacking good relationship with family (10.4%) and friends (3%), inability to enjoy meeting people (9.1%), conflicts with others (4%) and lecturers (8.5%), desire to be alone (13.7%), insisting others on self-opinion (4.9%), poor conflict resolution skills (2.1%), financial problems (19.5%) were the social factors that significantly correlated with PS (p<0.05). Suicidal thoughts (2.1%), feeling inferior (5.5%), lack of clear vision on future (7.9%), low self-esteem (5.5%), problems with love affairs (5.2%), feeling lonely (4.3%) were the psychological factors that significantly correlated with PS (p<0.05). Lack of extracurricular activities (3.7%), changes in food and food patterns (14%), low quality health services (26.8%), and lack of well-equipped hostels (25.6%), were the environmental factors which significantly correlated with PS (p<0.05). There were many factors prevalent among first-year students which positively correlated with PS and were statistically significant. The university system should address these issues and take appropriate interventions to minimize them.
Prevalence and perceived factors for lower back pain among nursing officers at Colombo South Teaching Hospital, Sri Lanka
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2021-11-11) Dharamarathna, H.H.N.D.; Perera, A.C.H.; Ranjani, S.H.S.; Sanjeewani, M.D.N.; Vithana, V.K.G.; Wijerathna, W.S.V.M.C.N.K.; Wijesinghe, M.A.C.
Lower back pain (LBP) is one of the most serious work-related health problems among healthcare professionals around the world. This problem is associated with major consequences, including disability, activity limitation and frequent sick leave. Nurses are at a higher risk for developing LBP compared to other health professionals. The study aimed to assess the prevalence and perceived factors for LBP among nursing officers at Colombo South Teaching Hospital, Sri Lanka. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 218 nursing officers at Colombo South Teaching Hospital, Sri Lanka. A pretested self-administered questionnaire which was developed by the researchers was used for data collection. The questionnaire consisted of three parts profiling demographic data, assessing LBP and perceived factors for LBP. The severity of LBP was assessed by using a numeric pain scale (0-10). A systematic random sampling method was applied to select the study sample. Data were analyzed for descriptive statistics and SPSS version 25.0 was used as an analytical tool. Of 218 nurses, the majority of nurses (95%) were females and belonged to the age range of 24-55 years. Only 40% of nurses were within the range of normal BMI (18.5-24.9 kg/m²). It was reported as a rare practice among nurses (14%), to use a sliding board to transfer patients. The prevalence of LBP over the last twelve months was 59% and 54% of the nurses have reported this pain with moderate severity. The majority of the nurses (86%) who suffered from LBP used pain medications. The most-reported perceived factors for LBP were long-standing hours (44%), not having enough rest (42%), and heavy lifting (37%). Prevalence of LBP among nurses is high. Therefore, an effective management strategy for LBP should be implemented.
Effects of risk factors on prognostic determinants of female breast cancer patients at National Cancer Institute, Maharagama: a retrospective study
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2021-11-11) Uyanahewa, T.W.; Chathuranga, D.D.D.; Ranaweera, R.D.D.S.; Kamburapolage, S.R.; Jayasekara, J.K.M.B.
A gradual increase of breast cancer incidences among female population was observed in Sri Lanka and several features have been identified as risk factors for breast cancer. Prognostic determinants as Estragon Receptors (ER), Progesterone Receptors (PR), Human Epidermal growth factor Receptor2 (HER2), Ki67, lymphovascular invasion, sites of metastasis and Nottingham grading are exploited to estimate the growth fraction of the breast cancer mass. The aim of our study is to determine the effects of breast cancer risk factors on predetermined prognostic characteristics of female breast cancer patients. We conducted a retrospective analysis of 406 female breast cancer patients, registered from year 2016 to 2018, at National Cancer Institute, Maharagama. The correlations and association among risk factors as age, Body Mass Index (BMI), Body Surface Area (BSA), clinical history, family history and menopausal status and prognostic determinants of patients were evaluated. Age was positively correlated with ER expression (r=0.186, P<0.01) and PR (P<0.01), while over-expression of HER2 was associated with the menopausal status (P<0.05) of patients. BMI and BSA did not show any correlation with prognostic determinants. Compared with the year 2016, the distribution of Diabetic Mellitus (21.8% to 33.3%) and hypertension (30.4% to 38.3%) was increased. Post-menopausal category among breast cancer patients have been increased to 66.9% in the year 2018. Research based on Sri Lankan population in 2017 and 2018 have revealed that majority of breast cancer patients were found among 40–50 ages and post-menopausal category. The results of the current study indicated that female breast cancer patients at higher ages tended to express more ER and PR than young, aged patients and pre-menopausal breast cancer patients could be more aggressive in prognosis due to high expression of HER2 and low expression of ER and PR as they are in younger ages.
Awareness regarding sports first aid among newly appointed sports coaches in schools in Sabaragamuwa Province in Sri Lanka
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2021-11-11) Ranasinghe, U.G.L.G.; Perera, D.S.L.; Weerarathna, L.R.N.D.
The present study is directed to identify the awareness of sports first aid among newly appointed sports coaches in schools in Sabaragamuwa province. The association of chronological age, educational level, district and sex were investigated to measure the awareness of sports first aid. Under the survey research design, a questionnaire consisting of two parts was distributed to collect demographic information and awareness of sports first aid. Sample of 207 was selected using a stratified random sampling method. Minitab version 17 and Microsoft Excel 2013 were used for statistical analysis. One-way ANOVA test used to investigate the mean differences of chronological age with awareness of first aid. Two sample t-test used to investigate mean differences of sex and districts with respect to the awareness of first aid. The mean score of overall awareness of sports first aid was 48.4%. Male coaches mean score was 49.2% and female coaches mean score was 46.7% for awareness of sports first aid and it was not statistically significant (P=0.058). Coaches in Kegalle scored a mean of 49% and coaches in Ratnapura scored a mean of 47.8% respectively for the awareness with respect to the districts and the differences were not statistically significant (P=0.303). Regards to awareness of chronological age groups, coaches who were age 23 or below, 24 to 33 and over 33 scored 46%, 49.1% and 49% respectively and it was not significantly different (P=0.111). Coaches qualified in O/L were scored 47.5% and coaches qualified in A/L scored 48.6% respectively and it was not significantly different (P=0.056). In a conclusion, it was evident the awareness of coaches of sports first aid was not sufficient (<50%). The researcher recommends respective authorities to conduct programs to improve awareness of sports first aid of newly appointed coaches in Sabaragamuwa Province which is crucial in coaching athletes.
Knowledge about and attitude towards breast cancer and screening practices among female school teachers in selected schools in Batticaloa Educational Zone
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2021-11-11) De Silva, K.G.D.; Dahanayake, S.K.; Karshath, N.; Fayas, M.B.; Joseph, J.; Alahakoon, A.M.S.S.
Breast cancer is the most frequent cancer of women worldwide as well as in Sri Lanka. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the occurrence of breast cancer is increasing. Breast cancer is often curable, if detected early. However, Sri Lankan females are not aware of the state or tend to suffer from this. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitude of breast cancer and screening practices among female schoolteachers in selected schools in Batticaloa educational zone. A cross sectional descriptive study was conducted among 174 female teachers in selected schools in Batticaloa educational zone, including 3 divisions: Manmunai North, Eravur Pattu-1 and Manmunai Pattu. Simple random sampling method was used and self – administered questionnaires were used to collect the data. Frequencies and percentages were obtained through data analysis using SPSS version 19.A total of 174 participants were recruited for this study. Only 1.7% of participants had high knowledge on risk factors, signs and symptoms and treatment of breast cancer. Regarding knowledge on breast cancer screening, respectively breast self-examination 39%, clinical breast examination 25% and mammography 9% could identify correctly. The attitude of breast cancer occurrence was positive in the study population while attitudes about barriers for participation of breast cancer screening practices were poor. The knowledge on breast cancer and its screening were poor among the female teachers and it is recommended a greater focus on related education programs to improve the knowledge and to change misconceptions about breast cancer and to avoid barriers related screening practice of breast cancer as attitude regarding breast cancer screening is a major lacking part and should be attended and intervened.
Health-related quality of life among individuals receiving treatment at a selected drug rehabilitation center, Sri Lanka: a preliminary study
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2021-11-11) Jayamaha, A.R.; Ranadeva, N.D.K.; Dharmarathna, H.N.N.D.; Nawarathne, L.C.; Herath, H.M.N.D.M.; Buddhini, D.G.H.; Samarakoon, D.N.A.W.; Arachchi, A.M.P.S.; Senerath, S.N.; Samarasinghe, K.L.; Fernando, S.S.N.; Perera, S.S.S.; Priyadarshani, U.G.N.
It has been revealed that the quality of life (QOL) of the individuals with substance use disorders decreases as substance use progresses in the absence of appropriate treatment or rehabilitation. The current study aimed to fill the paucity of evidence in Sri Lanka and to further assess the health related QOL among individuals receiving therapeutic Community treatment at a drug rehabilitation center. A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out as a preliminary study among 50 individuals who are enrolled in residential treatment. Health-related quality of life was measured using pre-tested EQ- 5D-5L questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and paired sample t test were carried out using IBM SPSS version 26. All participants were male poly drug users. The age of the participants ranged from 19-40 years. The mean treatment duration was 8±5 months. All the QOL dimensions: Mobility (t=2.07, p=0.043), Self-care (t=3.28, p=0.002), Usual activities (t=3.85, p=<0.001), Pain/discomfort (t=4.29, p=<0.001) and Anxiety/ depression (t=4.31, p=<0.001) were significantly improved with the residential rehabilitation treatment when comparing baseline data before enrollment to the treatment. The self-reported mean EQ visual analogue scale score during rehabilitation was 83.56±14.20. As the QOL of the rehabilitees improved, "Therapeutic Community" residential rehabilitation can be recommended as a treatment intervention for individuals in Sri Lanka suffering from drug abuse disorders.
Herbal products, COVID-19 pandemic and consumption trends in Sri Lanka
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2021-11-11) Nipunika, M.L.D.; De Silva, D.A.M.
COVID-19, deadly virus claimed thousands of lives around the world including hundreds in Sri Lanka threatening to the mankind. The first era of the pandemic spread without treatment and the second stage or new normal moving with waiting for the vaccines, rumors on side effects of the vaccine. Ayurveda products are recognized and considered as remedy based on traditional practices of many Asian nations including Sri Lankans. Present study attempts to identify the consumption trends of herbal products during the COVID-19 pandemic and explore the consumer behavior. Special concerns were to find out the consumer knowledge and beliefs on consumption of herbal products for the prevention of COVID-19 infection. Study sample comprised of 134 participants aged above 18 years. Primary data were collected through self- administered structured questionnaire. Descriptive analysis used mainly to describe the dimensions. Study shows that 89% participants used herbal products during the pandemic period. Among them 41% reported that they prepared herbal products at their home. 50% who tried herbal products during this period are mainly motivated by the recommendations received from the family, friends or relatives. Before pandemic, herbal porridge (72%) was the most used herbal product. During the pandemic paspanguwa (83%) and steam inhalation (81%) was the most used herbal remedies. In addition, 2% of participants used herbal drinks introduced by Ministry of Indigenous Medicine. Of the sample, 72% participants had a general knowledge about herbal products while 90% participants were willing to know further. Majority, (67%) was concerned on the product manufacturer. Control and regulation mechanism on production of herbal products were key concern of 90% of the consumers while 88% highlighted the need of government intervention in public awareness of the benefits of the products. There was a significant increase in the consumption of herbal products among Sri Lankans, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the main factor influencing was immunity boosting capability of herbal products. Consumers highlighted the need of safety and quality control mechanism for herbal products available in local market.
Perceived sleep quality and predictiveness of sleep quality among shift working nursing officers in two government hospitals, Sri Lanka
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2021-11-11) Nawarathne, L.C.; Amarasekara, A.A.T.D.
Current research studies have revealed and defined various key determinants of sleep quality, that measure sleep quality of an individual instead considering the quantity, an individual actually slept. Major sleep/ wake imbalance and, ultimately, poorly dealt sleep deprivation occurs due to compulsory shiftwork that is being carried out in the healthcare sector. This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted through self-administered questionnaires, profiling demographic data and assessing Global Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) scores; cumulative scores of PSQI components indicating perceived sleep quality, among shift working nursing officers in two selected government hospitals. Correlation analysis, hierarchical multiple regression analysis and descriptive statistics were run using SPSS version 25.0. Ethical approval and permission to conduct the study was gained from Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenpura (Nur/13/19), Colombo South Teaching Hospital (Application number 792), and Homagama Base hospital. Participants reported a mean age of 33±7, majority (95%) being females, worked maximum 12 shifts with a mean 8 (SD ±2) shifts per average week. Mean values reported in two of seven PSQI components; sleep duration (1.07±0.85) and sleep disturbances (1.00±0.63), were comparatively high, where 60.9% gained a Global PSQI score ≥ 5, indicating poor sleep quality. Predictiveness of each PSQI component towards Global PSQI score was not significant for all the models analyzed. However, a significant correlation was evident (r = 0.14, p = 0.01) between total shifts reported per average week and the Global PSQI score. Studies are recommended in evaluating staffing strategies and policies related to shift work as well as exploring the aspects of employee turnover related to nurses‘ sleep quality, due to the majority reporting poor sleep quality. A more definite picture of sleep quality by actigraphy is warranted among nurses, as the current study was limited to PSQI, a self- evaluation.
A Review of erandadi nasa sheka (herbal nasal spray) in the management of nasal polyps
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2021-11-11) Gayashani, K.A.T.K.; Dahanayake, J.N.; De Silva, L.D.R.
Nasal polyps are mucosal lesions of the nasal or paranasal sinuses with a prevalence of 1% - 4% globally. Erandadi nasa sheka (herbal nasal spray) (ENS) is a traditional Sri Lankan modified herbal nasal spray used to manage nasal polyps without any reported adverse effects. The aim of the present study was to review the Ayurveda pharmacodynamics, Ayurveda and Modern pharmacological attributes of the ingredients of the ENS to find the effectiveness of the formula. Data were collected from Ayurveda, modern and traditional classics, databases as PubMed, Google scholar and index journals up to 2020 with specific key words. The retrieved data were tabulated and analyzed accordingly. The herbal ingredients of ENS are Ricinus communis, Asparagus racemosus,Madhuca longifolia, Embelia ribes, Cassia tora, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Zingiber officinale, Alpinia calcarata, Elephantopus scaber, Sahindhava lavana (rock salt). According to the results Madhura rasa (sweet taste) (33.33%), Katu rasa (pungent taste) (22.22%) and Kashaya rasa (astringent taste) (22.22%) were prominent which pacify the vitiated Vata and Kapha dosha of the nasal mucosa, relieving redness, oedema and congestion. The most prominent qualities were Laghu guna (lightness) and Snigdha guna (unctuousness) which reduce the size of nasal polyp which in turn cure dyspnoea. Anti-inflammatory property (16.98%) was prominent among the ingredients, relieving the inflammatory features of nasal polyposis, while analgesics (11.32%), antioxidant (13.21%) properties of the ingredients accelerate the healing process. The antitumor action was 5.66% which is a key factor in decreasing the size of the nasal polyp with curing the difficulty in breathing. Thus Ayurveda pharmacodynamics, Ayurveda and modern pharmacological attributes of the ingredients of the Erandadi nasa sheka (herbal nasal spray) hypothetically proved the efficacy in managing nasal polyps successfully.
Review of Madhuyashtikadi anjana (herbal eye liner) used in the management of timira (Ametropia)
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2021-11-11) Silva, M.A.P.H.; Dahanayake, J.N.; De Silva, L.D.R.
Visual impairment is a major health problem globally according to the WHO. The abnormal optical system causes visual impairment which is compared with Timira (Ametropia / refractive errors). Madhuyashtikadi anjana (MA) is a modified herbal Anjana (herbal eye liner) used in Sri Lankan Traditional Ophthalmology for a long period without reported toxic effects. The present study was focused to logically analyze the effectiveness of MA considering the Ayurveda pharmacodynamics and the modern pharmacological attributes. The literature was searched in authentic Ayurveda, modern, traditional texts, index journals and databases such as Pub Med, Medline and Google scholar with specific key words. The data were tabulated and analyzed by percentage. MA consists of nine ingredients viz. Glycyrrhiza glabra, Piper nigrum, Piper longum, Symplocos racemosa, Coscinium fenestratum, Curcuma longa, Terminalia chebula, Terminalia bellirica and Phyllanthus emblica. The prominent Dosha karma was Kapha Vata shamaka (44.4%) which clears the channels of the eye thus, enhance normal vision. The ingredients possess Katu rasa (pungent) (30%), Kashaya rasa (astringent) (25%), Tikta rasa (bitter) (20%), Madhura rasa (sweet) (15%) which collectively mitigate the abnormal eye function. The Shita virya (cold potency) was prominent (55.5%) which pacify the provoked Pitta dosha due to the cooling effect and maintains normal visual acuity. The most prominent Guna karma are Chakshushya (promote healthy vision) and Balya (strength) which consecutively improves the vision and strengthen the eye muscles, nerves and vessels. The herbal ingredients are possessed with the antioxidant property where the eye gain normal color, movements and vision. Considering the Ayurveda pharmacodynamic properties, Ayurveda and modern pharmacological attributes of the ingredients of MA, it is capable of managing Timira (Ametropia) effectively which will be beneficial for the patients. Further it is a need to conduct clinical trials to prove the effectiveness of Madhuyashtikadi anjana in managing Ametropia.
Effectiveness of karanjadi dhuma varti (medicinal smoking stick) in the management of peenasa (Allergic Rhinitis) – a review
(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2021-11-11) Subasinghe, M.D.S.S.; Kodituwakku, N.D.; De Silva, L.D.R.
Peenasa which can be compared with allergic rhinitis, is a disease mentioned in both Ayurveda and Sri Lankan Traditional Medicine with the clinical features of excessive sneezing, especially in the morning or on exposure to cold weather or dust. The prevalence of allergic rhinitis is approximately 10 to 30% of adults and 40% of children globally. The aim of the study is to logically find the effectiveness of Karanjadi dhuma varti (KDV): modified herbal smoking stick considering the Ayurveda pharmacodynamic properties, pharmacological activities and modern pharmacological attributes of the formula. The ingredients of KDV are Pongamia pinnnata, Caesalpinia bonduc, Madhuca longifolia, Coscinium fenestratum, Curcuma longa, Acorus calamus, Nigella sativa, Ferula asafetida, Apium graveolens, Cedrus deodara, Santalum album, Aquilaria agallocha, Ricinus communis and Cinnamomum camphora. The review was conducted by utilizing Ayurveda and modern texts, index journals and data bases as Pub med, Google scholar. The observations were recorded accordingly, and the results were analyzed by percentage. KDV consist of Katu rasa (pungent) and Tikta rasa (bitter) in equal percentage as 33.33%. Peenasa is a Kapha Vata predominant disease and majority Rasa and Laghu guna (lightness) (35.29%) in the ingredients counteracts with the Kapha dosha which in turn help to manage Peenasa. Sukshma guna (fineness) is 2.94% which enhances the efficacy of the formula. Ushna virya (hot potency) is prominent (73.33%) which pacifies both Kapha and Vata dosha while Katu vipaka (pungent) (80.00%) pacifies Kapha dosha. The modern pharmacological actions such as antioxidant, anti- inflammatory, antimicrobial, immuno-modulatory, anti-allergy, anti-histaminic, analgesic, and anti-spasmodic properties are fruitful in the treatment of Peenasa. Considering Ayurveda pharmacodynamics and modern pharmacological actions of ingredients of KDV, it is concluded that conceptually Karanjadi dhuma varti is a potent remedy for all types of Peenasa.

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