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Background: Early-life stress is associated with alterations in telomere length, a marker of accumulated stress and aging, and a risk factor for psychiatric disorders. Nonhuman primate maternal variable foraging demand (VFD) is a validated early-life stress model, resulting in anxiety- and depressive-like symptoms in offspring. Previous studies reported increased plasma glucagon-like peptide 1 (pGLP-1) along with insulin resistance in this model. We investigated whether VFD rearing related to adult telomere length and to these neuroendocrine markers. Methods: Adult leukocyte telomere length was measured in VFD-reared (12 males, 13 females) and non-VFD–reared (9 males, 26 females) bonnet macaques. Associations between adult telomere length and adolescent fasting pGLP-1 or insulin resistance in VFD-reared versus non-VFD–reared groups were examined using regression modeling, controlling for sex, weight, and age. Results: VFD subjects had relatively longer telomeres than non-VFD subjects (p = .017), and females relatively longer than males (p = .0004). Telomere length was positively associated with pGLP-1 (p = .0009) and with reduced insulin sensitivity (p < .0001) in both sexes, but not as a function of rearing group. Conclusions: Unexpectedly, VFD was associated with longer adult telomere length. Insulin resistance may lead to higher pGLP-1 levels in adolescence, which could protect telomere length in VFD offspring as adults. Associations between adult telomere length and adolescent insulin resistance and high pGLP-1 may reflect an adaptive, compensatory response after early-life stress exposure.

Turmeric (Curcuma longa Linn.) is an important medicinal and spice crop which belongs to the family Zingiberaceae. Rhizomes are the commercially valuable part of the plant, commonly used as planting material in conventional propagation. Normally large portion (20-25%) of good quality rhizomes must be allocated as planting materials from the fresh harvest. Higher susceptibility to soil borne diseases is also a problem in using rhizomes as planting materials. Therefore, development of novel propagation techniques is important. The in vitro propagation has been considered as an effective alternative method for rapid regeneration of turmeric. Based on the above facts it is important to review the in-vitro propagation studies conducted in worldwide in order to identify best in-vitro propagation protocol suitable for local condition. In this regard, explant sterilization is a crucial factor; 70% ethanol, Carbendazim (fungicide), mercuric chloride and Clorox (commercial bleach) are mainly used to sterilize sprouting rhizome buds. Hormones such as BAP (6-Benzylaminopurine), BA (Benzyl Adenine), Kn (Kinetin) alone or in combination with NAA (Naphthalene Acetic Acid) or IAA (Indole-3-Acetic Acid) are commonly used in shoot multiplication as they play a vital role in bud production (2.0-4.0 mg/l of BAP were found as best hormone concentrations for shoot initiation). Roots were mainly induced by auxins like IBA (Indole Butyric Acid), IAA and NAA (2.0mg/l IBA). When acclimatization was done properly with Sand: Soil: Peat (1:1:1) combination as the potting media 70-90% of survival rate could be observed from regenerated plantlets.

No abstract available

Introduction: Corona Virus Disease-19 (COVID-19) discovered in December-2019 soon became a pandemic and was declared a global public health emergency.Objectives: The study assessed the public awareness on COVID-19 outbreak among a group of Sri Lankan social media users.Methods: This cross-sectional survey was conducted in late March-2020, using a self-administered online-ques­tionnaire shared in social media.Results: Out of 174 respondents, 97 (55.7%) were male and the mean age was 36.1 years. Most were from western province (n=109, 62.7%) and with higher education (64.5%). All ofthe common transmitting modes were identified by only 141 (81%). Respondents identified fever (97.7%) and Cough-93.7% as features of COVID while 131, (75.3%) knew about asymptomatic patients. Even though170 (97.7%) knew the duration of quarantine pe­riod 24.6% had a misconception on indications for quarantine. Majority (158, 90.8%) thought the herbal drinks are beneficial. Majority (n=153, 87.9%) knew the indications for using masksand 165 (94.8%) were aware about social distancing. Majority (n=162, 93.1%) were satisfied about the initial COVID-19 control-measures by the government.Discussion: The level of overall knowledge on the COVID-19 was satisfactory among the participants with some deficiencies including all the modes of transmission. This shows the space for further awareness for controlling the virus better.

International audience; Mutations in profilin 1 (PFN1) have been identified in rare familial cases of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). PFN1 is involved in multiple pathways that could intervene in ALS pathology. However, the specific pathogenic role of PFN1 mutations in ALS is still not fully understood. We hypothesized that PFN1 could play a role in regulating autophagy pathways and that PFN1 mutations could disrupt this function. We used patient cells (lymphoblasts) or tissue (post-mortem) carrying PFN1 mutations (M114T and E117G), and designed experimental models expressing wild-type or mutant PFN1 (cell lines and novel PFN1 mice established by lentiviral transgenesis) to study the effects of PFN1 mutations on autophagic pathway markers. We observed no accumulation of PFN1 in the spinal cord of one E117G mutation carrier. Moreover, in patient lymphoblasts and transfected cell lines, the M114T mutant PFN1 protein was unstable and deregulated the RAB9-mediated alternative autophagy pathway involved in the clearance of damaged mitochondria. In vivo, motor neurons expressing M114T mutant PFN1 showed mitochondrial abnormalities. Our results demonstrate that the M114T PFN1 mutation is more deleterious than the E117G variant in patient cells and experimental models and suggest a role for the RAB9-dependent autophagic pathway in ALS.

Point-of-care ultrasound can be an effective tool for pediatric emergency medicine providers in the evaluation of soft tissue lesions. We present a series of 4 pediatric patients with neck lesions in whom point-of-care ultrasound identified the type of lesion, guided decision-making on the need for computed tomography imaging, and led to definitive management.

Introduction Change in bowel movement is a common complaint in frail patients, which can be indicative of conditions such as constipation, infection or malnutrition. Without prompt action, this can result in increased length of stay. The recording of stools can be variable. This quality improvement project was to improve stool chart completion rate and staff confidence. Methods We conducted two Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles over three months. We surveyed multidisciplinary staff confidence using Likert scales covering each element on the Bristol stool chart. We then reviewed patient stool charts. The first intervention was a poster. The second intervention was the addition of a sticker to the charts to help staff more easily identify them in the patient’s bedside notes. Staff-wide emails were sent to inform every one of the interventions and key stakeholders including ward managers were asked to hand this over. Results 44 multidisciplinary staff were interviewed and 217 individual stool charts assessed over a 3 month period. 43% of stool charts were not filled in as directed after the first cycle. Posters improved staff confidence in filling out the charts from 72.3% to 92.3% after the second cycle, while 61% of stool charts came to be filled in correctly - over the initial 57%. Healthcare assistants consistently scored the highest in terms of believing charts to be up to date being whereas doctors remained the most cynical. There was little sustained change in stool chart completion rates after three PDSA cycles. Eventually, after both interventions, completion rates returned to baseline. Conclusions Stool chart completion rates can be improved in the short term, but sustainability is a challenge. Factors contributing to this include the variable number of agency nurses. Further improvements include teaching at the nursing induction.

Introduction There are 191 foundation programme jobs in geriatrics in the North East.1 Students often don’t receive teaching sessions on the comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA). It is an assessment foundation trainees use on a daily basis on the geriatric ward and the acute take. Methods We designed a series of teaching sessions for fifth year medical students, delivered by different members of the multidisciplinary team. A pre- and post-session questionnaire assessed their understanding. Results Nine students completed the pre-session questionnaire:22% were able to define CGA11% identified the different components22% identified the target population, the benefits of CGA and the members involved44% offered solutions to obtaining a history from patients with confusion100% identified the barriers to carrying out CGA Seven students carried out the post session questionnaire; the table below represents the number that answered correctly. Conclusions The majority of foundation trainees will have at least one job in geriatric medicine and participate in the acute take. The average age of hospital admissions has been rising for years,2 highlighting the importance of being able to accurately and thoroughly assess the older population. The initial questionnaire demonstrated the limited understanding that fifth year students had on the comprehensive geriatric assessment. Following sessions by different members of the MDT there was clear improvement. The sessions covered: general overview of CGA; session by the frailty pharmacist; functional assessment by physiotherapy team; cognitive assessment by the dementia and delirium team; and life as an F1 on geriatric medicine. Positive feedback was received, emphasising the improvement in confidence in preparation for foundation training. References 1. Oriel website: https://www.oriel.nhs.uk/Web/FND. 2. NHS digital Hospital Admitted Patient Care Activity 2015–16.

Introduction: WHO Surgical Safety Checklist (SSC) was introduced to address the well-recognized global problem of lack of surgical safety. Although proper implementation of SSC reduces common adverse events occurring during surgical procedures, the practical implementation in some cases has been found to be less than optimal. Objective: To assess the user related factors in the implementation of the SSC at District General Hospital (DGH), Matara . Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out at DGH, Matara using a self-administered questionnaire among 76 doctors and 116 nurses who worked in operating theatres of DGH, Matara. A questionnaire based on the SSC and its implementation was used to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices of doctors and nurses. Results: On the average, the seniority and experience in working in the operating theatres of DGH, Matara had a significant association with the awareness of the SSC. Nurses were more familiar about the SSC compared to doctors. Even when the user of the checklist had good knowledge, favorable attitudes and interest for proper implementation of the SSC, only a minority (8.7%) was trained in SSC. Discussion: The complexity, uncertainty of the definition of the responsibility and frequent unavailability of checklists were the main perceived barriers. It is recommended to simplify and reformat the checklist to make more user friendly and designating a checklist coordinator, training and monitoring implementation for better compliance.

Over the past 20 years, there has been a drastically increased understanding of the genetic basis of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Despite the identification of more than 40 different ALS-causing mutations, the accumulation of neurotoxic misfolded proteins, inclusions, and aggregates within motor neurons is the main pathological hallmark in all cases of ALS. These protein aggregates are proposed to disrupt cellular processes and ultimately result in neurodegeneration. One of the main reasons implicated in the accumulation of protein aggregates may be defective autophagy, a highly conserved intracellular “clearance” system delivering misfolded proteins, aggregates, and damaged organelles to lysosomes for degradation. Autophagy is one of the primary stress response mechanisms activated in highly sensitive and specialised neurons following insult to ensure their survival. The upregulation of autophagy through pharmacological autophagy-inducing agents has largely been shown to reduce intracellular protein aggregate levels and disease phenotypes in different in vitro and in vivo models of neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we explore the intriguing interface between ALS and autophagy, provide a most comprehensive summary of autophagy-targeted drugs that have been examined or are being developed as potential treatments for ALS to date, and discuss potential therapeutic strategies for targeting autophagy in ALS.

This quality improvement study characterizes surgical oncology trials, analyzes growth, identifies associations with early discontinuation or results reporting, and evaluates proportions of trials involving each neoplasm site.

The objective of this study is to unveil an optimum and precise automated method to model S0 galaxies. Preliminary results of the study confirm that GALFIT—a two-dimensional image decomposition program—with a Sérsic profile can be used to model S0 galaxies. Since the input parameters affect the accuracy of the model, different combinations of parameters were tested to obtain the best-fit model. An automated GALFIT fitting process was developed using Python and Astropy module to increase the efficiency of the process. A sample of S0 galaxy images observed at the Kitt Peak National Observatory was used to test the precision of the implemented method. The accuracy of the created models was tested both visually and statistically. The new method will allow us to model a large sample of S0 galaxies accurately and determine their structure and properties.

The soil seed bank provides an indication of the regenerative potential of forest ecosystems following disturbances. The present study was conducted to examine the spatial and temporal distribution of soil seed bank in three different forest communities identified in an upper montane forest ecosystem (Dotalugala Forest Reserve) in the Knuckles Range, Sri Lanka. The three forest communities were upper-montane forest (UMF), mid-elevational wet face forest (MWF) and mid-elevational dry face forest (MDF), hereafter referred to as UMF, MWF and MDF, respectively. Ten surface soil samples were collected from five, 10 m × 15 m permanent plots (2 composite samples from each plot) established in each of the three forest communities. The soil samples were spread on seed beds in a glasshouse and emerging seedlings were counted and identified into different morphospecies. Two soil samplings were conducted during dry and wet seasons. Seed beds were maintained for nearly 3-4 months until no seedlings emerged. The results revealed higher number of germinable seeds in the wet season (1,157, 1,381 and 1,231 seeds) than in the dry season (507, 641 and 597 seeds) in UMF, MWF and MDF forest communities, respectively. The richness had similar trend between seasons (31, 35 and 34 morphotypes in the wet season and 24, 27 and 27 in the dry season in UMF, MWF and MDF, respectively). However, the density and richness showed no significant differences between forest communities during both seasons. Species composition differed between seasons and forest communities. Woody species dominated the soil seed bank during the dry season, while non-woody species dominated in the soil seed bank during the wet season. These temporal fluctuations in seed banks may possibly be due to site-specific (predation, senescence and germination of seeds) and plant-specific (phenology, dormancy of seeds) factors prevailing in these forest communities. Seeds of invasive species were represented comparatively less in all three communities, indicating no significant threat from invasive species to these forest communities. A number of pioneer species including Maesa indica, Acronychia pedunculata and Macaranga spp. were recorded in all three sites signifying their resilience and regenerative potential following a disturbance.

This study investigates the influence of gender on perception of landscape, with reference to the Viharamahadevi Park in Colombo. The exiting literature suggests that there is a difference in perception of landscapes in reference to the gender of the user. Perception theories with emphases on visual perception aspect were identified through a literature survey. The identified visual perception theories were further analyzed in order to develop concepts and indicators. In spite of the transformation of ‘green to grey’ of most of the spaces in Colombo, Viharamahadevi park has preserved its landscape environment. Its location in the central part of Colombo has contributed to attract many different types of city dwellers and visitors. The presence of different visual landscape characters such as complexity, visual scale, stewardship, coherence and image ability at the Viharamahadevi Park lead to the selection of it the case study. A questionnaire was used to collect data from the general public (15 males and 15 females)who patronized the park regularly, and second year undergraduate students (15 male and 15 female students) following the degree of landscape architecture at Moratuwa University. The data was analyzed under the likerts scale.The analysis of data indicates that there is no clear difference of preference in landscapes between the female and male gender with the public users. The male gender of public who patronize the park has intention to interact with it, such as spend their time with nature or for relaxation. However, majority of the females of public use the park unintentionally due to social requirements. There is a significant difference in order of perception according to the gender among the second year undergraduate students. The information processing theory of visual perception explains the difference of visual landscape perception among landscape students and the general public. Landscape students have a comparatively better understanding on landscape than the general public.The knowledge supports them to have a clear visual perception, which coupled with gender orientations make a strong difference with male and female students. But due to the lack of higher level of ability to appreciate and understand the landscapes, the public do not have clear sense or a perception and thus lacks clear gender differences. Keywords: Landscape, Visual perception, Gender

No abstract available

Euphorbia hirtacommonly known asTawa-Tawais a plant used in folklore medicine in the Philippines for the treatment of dengue. Though,E. hirtahas been extensively investigated for numerous bioactivities, limited studies have been conducted on the antidengue activity. Thus, the present study provides a comprehensive review of studies conducted on the antidengue activity ofE. hirta. A systematic literature survey was carried out in scientific databases, PubMed®, Scopus, and Google Scholar, for research carried on the antidengue activity ofE. hirta. The literature search identified a total of 867 articles: databases PubMed = 6, Scopus SciVerse® = 423, and Google Scholar = 437; one additional article was identified by searching reference lists. Eight full papers were entitled to the review; out of those, two studies focused on ethnobotanical surveys, three on animal experiments, one on human trial, and two onin vitroantiviral activities, and one was computational study. The available evidence conclusively demonstrates the potential ofE. hirtaagainst dengue as it holds significant antiviral and platelet increasing activities. However, the number of studies conducted to validate its antidengue activity was found to be inadequate. Hence, well-controlled clinical trials and contemporary pharmacological approaches including activity guided fractionation and elucidation of the mode of action are encouraged to establish the use ofE. hirtafor dengue.

Non enzymatic protein glycation and oxidative stress are the key molecular basis for the macro and micro vascular complications observed in chronic diabetics. Decoctions prepared with medicinal plants with antiglycation and antioxidant potentials therefore have therapeutic potential in preventing diabetic complications. Decoctions of five antidiabetic plants (parts) namely, Cassia auriculata flowers, Osbeckia octandra leaves, Syzygium cumini bark, Phyllanthus emblica fruits and Scoparia dulcis whole plant were analyzed for their DPPH and ABTS antioxidant potentials, antiglycation potentials and total phenolic contents. Decoctions of S. cumini, O. octandra and P. emblica had significantly high (p < 0.05) antiglycation potential ranges of 16.8–35.2, 23.0–28.5 and 37.4–82.3 μg/ml with correspondingly high antioxidant potentials and total phenolic contents of 851, 658 and 625 mg GAE/g respectively.

Background: This study evaluated the effects of an early stretching exercises programme on the range of motion of the shoulder joint and functional recovery in patients with burns. Methods: A randomized controlled study was conducted. Patients from 15 to 55 years of age with a total burn injury surface area (TBSA) of 10% to 45% involving the shoulder joint including axilla were eligible. Participants were randomized into two groups; intervention and a usual care control group, with 110 patients in each group. A standardized protocol was used in the management of intervention group for 14 days. The control group was subjected to usual protocol currently used. The range of Motion (ROM) was measured, and Functional recovery (FR) was assessed with the Quick DASH questionnaire and the Abduction Ladder. Data were obtained before and after the intervention phase and at 3, 6 and 12 months of post-burn period. Results: The mean (SD) age of intervention group and control group were 29.76 [9.81] and 30.31 [9.45] respectively. The mean (SD) TBSA% of intervention group and control group was 26.15[9.45] and 24.60[9.56] respectively. There is a significant beneficial difference (p=

Phyllanthus emblica L. is a commercially important fruit species and its plant parts are indispensable in indigenous herbal medicine. A total of 475 P. emblica drupes harvested from 66 trees in Anuradhapura, Kandy and Kurunegala districts of Sri Lanka were used for characterizing morphological features. For each drupe, seven morphometric data (height, width and weight of drupes, mesocarp thickness, width, height and weight of stones) were measured. Sixty one drupes were used for the quantitative analysis of the epicarp color of drupes. Bitterness, an organoleptic property was analyzed in relation to drupe size by using a taste panel of independent human subjects. The stone traits showed a lower correlation with other drupe traits suggesting that drupe and stone traits may be governed by two separate sets of genes. The cluster analysis based on drupe size traits characterized the P. emblica germplasm into four clusters. Number of cells in the mesocarp of smaller and larger fruits was more or less the same but the cell size was larger in larger fruits (p

Plant species in Dothalugala Man and Biosphere (MAB) Reserve were recorded in twenty six 10 x 15 m2 experimental plots, aiming to reveal the total species richness and, the richness of endemic and threatened plant species in the canopy and the understory of Tropical Montane Cloud Forests (TMCFs) and, to find out the impacts of cardamom cultivation on the plant diversity of the study area. One hundred and forty nine plant species (77 tree, 47 shrub, 24 climber and one herbaceous species) belonging to 106 plant genera and 54 plant families have been found from the study area. The study area possesses a high percentage endemicity of plant species (49.6%) with the presence of 74 (38 tree, 29 shrub, 6 climber and one hebaceous) species endemic to Sri Lanka. Similarly, 45 out of all plant species (30.2% species) and 45 out of all endemic species (60.7%) in these forests were either globally or nationally threatened. The endemic and ‘Critically Endangered’ dipterocarp, Stemonoporus affinis was also found in the area. Cardamom cultivation in the area had caused a tremendous reduction in the floristic diversity (species richness) and the conservation value of TMCFs in Dothalugala MAB reserve. Therefore, the cardamom cultivation and other related disturbances within or adjacent to Dothalugala MAB Reserve should be arrested for the conservation of plant diversity in this fragile and environmentally sensitive ecosystem and, this will eventually contribute towards the conservation of biodiversity not only in Sri Lanka but also in the globe as a whole. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/cjsbs.v42i2.6609 Ceylon Journal of Science (Bio. Sci.) 42(2): 55-70, 2013

TAR DNA binding protein 43 (TDP-43) is a major disease-associated protein involved in the pathogenesis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal lobar degeneration with ubiquitin-positive inclusions (FTLD-U). Our previous studies found a direct association between TDP-43 and heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein K (hnRNP K). In this study, utilizing ALS patient fibroblasts harboring a TDP-43M337V mutation and NSC-34 motor neuronal cell line expressing TDP-43Q331K mutation, we show that hnRNP K expression is impaired in urea soluble extracts from mutant TDP-43 cell models. This was confirmed in vivo using TDP-43Q331K and inducible TDP-43A315T murine ALS models. We further investigated the potential pathological effects of mutant TDP-43-mediated changes to hnRNP K metabolism by RNA binding immunoprecipitation analysis. hnRNP K protein was bound to antioxidant NFE2L2 transcripts encoding Nrf2 antioxidant transcription factor, with greater enrichment in TDP-43M337V patient fibroblasts compared to healthy controls. Subsequent gene expression profiling revealed an increase in downstream antioxidant transcript expression of Nrf2 signaling in the spinal cord of TDP-43Q331K mice compared to control counterparts, yet the corresponding protein expression was not up-regulated in transgenic mice. Despite the elevated expression of antioxidant transcripts, we observed impaired levels of glutathione (downstream Nrf2 antioxidant) in TDP-43M337V patient fibroblasts and astrocyte cultures from TDP-43Q331K mice, indicative of elevated oxidative stress and failure of some upregulated antioxidant genes to be translated into protein. Our findings indicate that further exploration of the interplay between hnRNP K (or other hnRNPs) and Nrf2-mediated antioxidant signaling is warranted and may be an important driver for motor neuron degeneration in ALS.

Defects in the RNA-binding proteins survival motor neuron (SMN) and TAR DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP-43) cause progressive motor neuron degeneration in spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), respectively. While low levels of SMN protein in motor neurons result in SMA, recent studies implicate abnormal SMN levels and function in ALS pathogenesis. Here, we determine that SMN protein is upregulated early and progressively in spinal and cortical motor neurons of male transgenic mutant TDP-43A315T mice. Cytoplasmic SMN aggregates that contain TDP-43 and HuR were identified in motor neurons of TDP-43A315T mice, consistent with the incorporation of SMN into stress granules. To test the impact of augmenting SMN levels in TDP-43 proteinopathy, we demonstrate that neuronal overexpression of human SMN in TDP-43A315T mice delayed symptom onset and prolonged survival. SMN upregulation also countered motor neuron degeneration, attenuated activation of astrocytes and microglia and restored AMP kinase activation in spinal cords of TDP-43A315T mice. We also reveal that expression of another factor conferring motor neuron vulnerability, androgen receptor (AR), is reduced in spinal cords of male TDP-43A315T mice. These results establish that SMN overexpression in motor neurons slows disease onset and outcome by ameliorating pathological signs in this model of mutant TDP-43-mediated ALS. Further approaches to augment SMN levels using pharmacological or gene therapy agents may therefore be warranted in ALS. Our data also reinforce a novel potential link between ALS and spinal bulbar muscular atrophy (SBMA), another motor neurodegenerative disease mediated by reduced AR function in motor neurons.

Purpose Stimulus luminance (L) and area (A) are related by the equation LxAk=constant. The authors evaluated the k value at 66 positions of the central visual field in patients with glaucoma, to modify L and A simultaneously in order to examine advanced glaucomas with a bigger dynamic range. Methods The luminance limitation of a computer screen with automatic photometric control was compensated for by increasing the stimulus area in the range between 0 and 17 dB, using the k topographic values previously calculated on normal subjects. Four initial series of 21, 12, 10, and 10 glaucomas were sequentially examined with the Octopus 311 in which the stimulus size cannot be freely changed during the examination, and with the experimental method (Pulsar-SAP) modifying stimulus sizes to equal the results. k Final estimation was verified in 60 new cases. Results k Values increase progressively with defect deepness. Values higher than those of the normal population with equivalent topographic differences were obtained. Correlation between indices was as follows: MD: r=0.94 (pConclusions k Value is higher in patients with glaucoma than in normal subjects, although the topographic features are similar. It is feasible to design a scale combining stimulus luminance and sizes to use screens with relative low brightness as surfaces for visual field examination.

Phyllanthus emblica L. (V. Nelli) is an important constituent of indigenous medicine and acommercially important fresh fruit species. The diversity of the P. emblica germplasm in SriLanka has not been studied in detail according to our knowledge. Therefore, the present studywas conducted to characterize the drupes of P. emblica gremplasm in Sri Lanka. A total of 475 P. emblica drupes harvested from 66 trees in selected areas of Anuradhapura,Kandy and Kurunegala districts of Sri Lanka. For each drupe, seven morphometric data;drupe height, width, weigh, mesocarp thickness, stone width, height and weight weremeasured. Also 61 drupes were used for the quantitative analysis of the epicarp colour ofdrupes using a colourimeter. An organoleptic property; bitterness was analysed in relation todrupe size by having a taste panel of independent human subjects. The data were analysedusing parametric and non parametric statistical methods. The cluster analysis based on drupe size traits clearly characterized the P. emblica germplasmin to four clusters. The means of drupe weight (Cluster 1; 5.98 g, Cluster 2; 3.59 g, Cluster 3;2.13 g, Cluster 4; 14.21 g) were significantly different (P

Background Pelvic floor hernias pose a diagnostic and a treatment challange. Neurofibromatosis is a rare systemic disease, and urinary tract involvement is rare. Case presentation Here we report a case of a 54-year-old female with multiple neurofibromatosis who presented with features of obstructed defecation and was found to have a large perineal hernia. At surgery, we found an unusual herniation of a large neuropathic bladder and rectum through a perineal defect. She underwent reduction cystoplasty and repair of the pelvic floor using a prolene mesh. Subsequent histopathological examination confirmed a large neurofibroma infiltrating the urinary bladder. Conclusion Neurofibromatosis of the bladder is rare it should be considered as a differential diagnosis in patients presenting with symptoms of obstructed defecation.

Soil nutrient status of moist-deciduous forests across a chronosequence of forest age wasdetermined at Sigiriya sanctuary, Sri Lanka to determine the patterns of nutrient build up ~with forest succession. Forty 20 x 20 m experimental plots were established at differentages of sucessional forests grown after swidden farming and in mature forests older than75 years. Two soil samples were collected from in each established experimental plots.Total carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus and mineralizable nitrogen, carbon, sodium,potassium, calcium, magnesium and clay contents were estimated. Results revealed that the total nitrogen content increases with the process of successiondespite the fact that fragmented soil litter results in exaggerating the total nitrogencontents. Fragmented soil litter accumulates in all forest due to high termite activity.Mineralizable nitrogen was found to be immobilized in the soil litter. Total carboncontent of the soils of young successional forests increased with the increase of forestbiomass and subsequent leaf litter accumulation with the process of succession. The hightotal carbon content in 10-15 year old forest soils is due to the incorporation of largeamounts of litter after the self-thinning of plant individuals at about 6-7 years of age.However, it takes a longer time to build up the labile carbon contents within the soil. Itseems that the clay content in the soil decreases with the increase of forest age, but it isactually due to the dilution of clay with organic matter. Both phosphorus and calciumcontents in the soils of young successional forests were lower but higher in 20-25 yearssuccessional and mature forests despite the fact that these were somewhat high in I yearold fallow forest. These fallow forests are the grazing grounds for domestic cattle andbuffaloes and this may cause to add some nutrients in the soil. Potassium content in thesoil is high in 10-15 years old forests and this may also be due to the incorporation ofJitter due to self-thinning of individuals. It seems that swidden farming practices result into reducing the soil nutrients but after10-15 years following swidden farming, the soil nutrient contents have increased at leaststarted building up. Therefore, forest degradation inevitably takes place if the rotationperiod of swidden farming is less than 15 years. The soil nutrient contents in 20-25 yearsold successional forests are some what similar to mature forests implicating that theseforests can be easily converted or rehabilitated into climax forests. Reference Anderson, J.M. and Ingram, J.S. 1993. Tropical Soil Biology and Fertility: a handbookof methods. Second edition, CABl Publishing, UK.

This study examines the vegetation succession of moist deciduous forests at the Sigiriyasanctuary and some factors affecting for this. Thirty eight 20x20m2 experimental plotswere established in sites ranging in disturbance history from areas abandoned for onemonth after swidden farming to forests not known to have been recently disturbed. Thevegetation was enumerated while the canopy openness, soil moisture and soil temperaturewere measured. Seed rain was monitored while the soil seed bank was enumerated threetimes over a year in four month intervals. Seedling bank was also enumerated in lx2m2quadrat in each experimental plot. Seed predation was examined by keeping seeds ofChloroxylon swietenia seeds in the experimental plots and by continuous observations. Succession appears to be a process of progressive change in species dominance and lossof less shade-tolerant subordinates rather than accumulation of new colonists. Both seedrain and soil seed bank in all these young successional forests contain many agriculturalweed species but the density of seeds of climax species is negligible. Consequently, theseedling bank is very poor and contains many agricultural weed and light demandingshrub species. The soil temperature in young successional forests is higher while the soilmoisture is lower than the older successional or high forests. After 18-20 years, the treesare released and shade-out light demanding species. This results in the death of most ofthe light demanding shrubs and as a consequence, root competition is reduced and morespace is available for the establishment of new immigrant climax forest species. The seedrain, soil seed bank and the seedling bank of 20-25 year old forests contain some seeds ofclimax forest species. High forests contain many climax forest tree ,IUd shrub species but seeds a.id seedlings ofvaluable timber tree species are rare in them. High seed predation is one reason for thissituation. Seedling bank is very fragmented and mostly contains individuals of climaxforest shrub species. It seems that the studied moist deciduous forests are somewhat degraded and thevegetation succession after a large scale disturbance is a slow process. Therefore,protection and rehabilitation of these forests are vital activities for their perpetuity.

The vegetation of dry forests at Bundala National Park, Sri Lanka is under a threat due tothe invasion of alien exotic species and poor natural forest regeneration. Since it isimportant to understand the effects of soil microorganisms in sustainable forestmanagement, this study attempts to find out how the mycorrhizal infections would favourdry forest plant species for their growth and survival. Fine lateral roots of seven naturalforest species (Cassia auriculata, Drypetes sepiaria, Dichrostachys cineria, Securenigaleucopyros, Salvadora persica, Zyzyphus oenoplia, Manilkara hexandra) and twoinvasive species (Opuntia dillenii, Prosopis juliflora) were collected from BundalaNational Park and examined for mycorrhizal infection in two different times (wet anddry) of the year. Processing and staining of root samples were carried out using themodified Philips and Heyman (1970) method. Muscular mycorrhizal infections were detected in fine lateral roots of all the studiedspecies except in Manilkara hexandra. Percentage infection of mycorrhizae in dry andwet periods was significantly different. There was an increased mycorrhizal infection inCassia auriculata, Drypetes septaria, Opuntia dillenii and Prosopis juliflora in the dryseason compared to the wet season and this would facilitate the absorption of water andphosphorus by these species and thereby help them to grow and compete with other plantspecies successfully. A non-cyst forming nematode has been identified in the xylem offine roots of Manilkara hexandra and this may be the reason for the die-back of matureindividuals of the species in the area during the drought periods.

Although, poor natural regeneration of tropical dry forest has been observed in Sri Lanka.India. Africa and in Latin America. the factors affecting this have not been well studied.In this paper. the physiognomy of dry deciduous forests at Sigiriya in the northern dry zoneof Sri Lanka and some major factors which affect their natural regeneration wereestimated. The vegetation was enumerated in six 20x20m experimental plots. The diameter 01' trees25cm at breast height (dhh) was measured. Seed rain was detected hy collecting seedsusing wooden trays. allowing them to he germinated and enumerating the germinants overa period of eleven months. The seed bank was examined by collecting ten soil samplesfrom each plot three times within a year. Seedlings were recorded in 2x2m quadrates ineach plot and their growth and survival was recorded throughout an year. Soiltemperature, soil moisture and the canopy openness were also detected. The species composition and dominant species were identified for dry deciduous forest inthe arca. The beta diversity of forests is high implying the importance of conserving largeareas of dry forests. Seasonality of seed production. seed predation. lack of a persistentseed bank, unfavourahle environmental factors arc found to be affecting the regeneration ofdry deciduous forest. Possibilities of sustainable timber production in dry deciduous forestand the participation of local people in forest management arc also discussed.

Although there are many fern species at the secondary forest of Upper Hantana area, theirdistribution and the diversity has not been studied adequately. In the Upper Hantana areamany of the habitats are under threat due to human activities and therefore, most of thesefern species are at a risk. Therefore, it is very importarit to conserve these fern species andfor this purpose, it is necessary to identify all the ferns in the area and their distribution.The objectives of this study were to find out the fern diversity in the Upper Hantana areaand to find out microhabitat requirements of these fern species. Forty-five, 2x4cm2 quadrates were established at different sites i.e, at the roadside,streamside and in the forest interior of the study site. All the fern species in these quadrateswere identified and recorded. Results revealed that the species, genera and family diversities were high at Upper Hantanaarea. A total of 29 species belonging to 17 genera and 13 families were recorded from thearea. Out of 29 species 53% were recorded from roadside while 34% and 17% wererecorded from streamside and forest interior respectively. With respect to the 13 familiesrecorded 48% were found at roadside, 35% from the streamside and 17% from the forestinterior. As there were more fern species at roadside, these may easily be disturbed with increasedhuman activities.

Purpose: To investigate in silico how calculation of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) is affected by image SNR, b-values, and the true tissue ADC. Methods: Diffusion-weighted (DW) images were generated assuming a mono-exponential signal model with two different b-values and known true ADC values. Rician noise of different levels was added to the DWI images to adjust the image SNR. Using the two DWI images, ADC was calculated using a mono-exponential model for each set of b-values, SNR, and true ADC. 40,000 simulations were performed for each parameter setting to determine the mean and the standard-deviation of the calculated ADC, as well as the percentage accuracy and precision with respect to the true ADC. In our study, we simulated two true ADCs (ADC 0.00102 for prostate tumor and 0.00180 mm2/s for normal prostate tissue). SNR was varied from 2 to 100 and b-values were varied from 0 to 2000s/mm2. Results: The accuracy (difference between known and calculated ADC) and precision (standard-deviation of calculated ADC) were increased with SNR. To increase SNR, 10 signal-averagings (NEX) were used. The optimal NEX combination for tumor and normal tissue was 2, 8, and the optimal b-value pair were 0, 1200s/mm2 and 0, 700s/mm2. The minimum accuracy and precision errors were obtained when low b-value is 0. For any choice of low b-value until 400s/mm2, the errors were minimized when b-value difference is approximately 1200 and 700s/mm2 for tumor and normal tissues respectively. For true ADC 0.00144 mm2/s, it is around 700s/mm2. Conclusion: Using the optimal choices of parameters for the prostate peripheral region both normal and tumor tissues were calculated with 99% accuracy and 94% precision. Suggestions for parameters choices could be made for any tissue ADC.