Research Symposium-2013

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An Analytical Approach to Establish Specific Electrical Energy Consumption for Tea Factories in Sri Lanka
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2013) Udayangani, W.A.S.; Gunadasa, H.K.S.G.; Pathmasiri, M.M.R.
Tea industry is undoubtedly one of the most important industries with a substantial contribution to the national economy in Sri Lanka. Tea industry utilizes energy in the forms of thermal energy and electrical energy for its tea manufacturing process requirements. Analyze values that can be used as standard values for the comparing performance of industries, process, systems or equipments is essential to set the corresponding achievements. Average value, best value and baseline for electrical energy consumption for tea industry is a vital because the specific electricity consumption in terms of kWh per one kilogram of made tea is a good measure of understanding the effectiveness of electricity utilization in the tea industry. This research contributes to calculate the specific electrical energy consumption for tea factories in Sri Lanka because the calculated value of the specific energy consumption between the tea factories has large variation. There are 642 tea factories are operated in Sri Lanka. These tea factories are situated up country, mid country and low country respectively. From those tea factories 50 tea factories are taken as the sample size. From the above sample size about 25 tea factories, data are collected from up country/ mid country tea factories and other 25 tea factories, data collected from low country tea factories. Questionnaire survey was carried out for collecting relevant data from the tea factories and gathered information on monthly and annual made tea production (kg) and monthly and annual electricity consumption (kWh). Specific electrical energy consumption (kWh per kilogram of made tea) was the calculated data. Minitab software system was used to find out the best performance among a group of tea factories. The calculated average value was 0.7856 kWh per one kilogram of made tea for specific electrical energy consumption and it is named as the baseline of specific electrical energy consumption. The best case of the specific electrical energy consumption is 0.4 kWh per one kilogram of made tea. This calculated baseline for the specific electrical energy consumption allows the tea factories to know precisely where their operation ranks in relation to a direct competitor, further allowing it to identify major performance gap that need to be addressed through improved energy efficiency.
Android Based Accident Guider for Insurance Involvers
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2013) Hassan, K.M.I.; Ihalagedara, K.
Human beings are subject to encounter many consequences according to socio economic, political, cultural changes which affect their lives. Every human being is in need of security and care throughout the lifetime in order to accomplish their life goals. Hence, currently insurance plays a major role in recovering the discomforting situations in which humans are affected. There are several types of insurance policies which have been introduced for general public. In terms of insurance policy industry, vehicle insurance is one of the very important areas to manage accidental situations. In current scenario, when an accident occurs, people tend to call the nearest insurance agent, emergency places and garages as well. If the person is not aware of the exact location, he is unable to proceed with the relevant activities. After calling, insurance officer comes to the spot and collects the information manually. Policy holder enters accident details filling a form and hands over it to agent. However, policy holder cannot demonstrate visual representation of accident to the agent if he is far away. Moreover, policy holder encounters difficulties in ascertaining the nearest places, agent, and those contact details and as well filling the incident form. Therefore, mobile applications can be identified as more effective and user friendly in many situations as such and further we can make different applications for different users. Thus, this research was conducted to develop Android, Web and GPS based system to solve these kinds of problems. Policy holders, agents and insurance officers are connected by proposed system. The system facilitates to recognize current location, the nearest wanted places, policy alert, and creation of visual claim report in an accidental situation. Methodology Considering the requirements of introducing web based system to facilitate accidental situations, web applications, insurance applications, android applications and current vehicle insurance procedures were studied. Then the project proposal was developed for IT driven solution. Further, diagrams were designed, such as system architecture, flow charts and activity diagrams to clarify the requirements. Database was normalized and ER diagram was drawn. The databases and tables were created by using PHP MyAdmin and web interface was designed by using HTML, CSS and JQuery. Moreover, web application was created by using the technologies such as PHP, MySQL ,JQuery, JavaScript, Ajax and JSON. Android application interface was created by using xml. Android logical control was done by java in android and eclipse platform. The identification of current location was done through GPS and Google map API was used to access map. Data were retrieved from MySQL by Android through JSON and PHP. The system was tested by using several test cases and evaluated by collecting user evaluation comments. System was tested separately as two modules, Android and Web. Finally, integrating the whole system testing and demonstration were completed.
Antibacterial Efficacy of Mangrove Rhizophora mucronata Extracts on Aquatic Bacterial Pathogens
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2013) Bokalawella, S.H.K.; De Silva, D.P.N.; Jayamanne, S.C.; Gunasekara, A. J. M.; Piyadasa, H.T.N.I.
Medicinal plants contain components of therapeutic value and are used as remedies for human/animal diseases. They are environmentally friendly due to less toxicity and have minimal health hazards (Opara and Wokocha, 2008). Mangrove plant extracts and its major chemical classes displayed various levels of antibacterial, antifungal, antifouling, antiviral and free radical scavenging effects due to their bioactive compounds (Bandaranayake, 2002). Bacterial infections cause severe economic losses to the aquaculture industry which increased the use of antimicrobial agents significantly as a treatment (Alderman and Michel, 1992). Improper usage and presence of drug residues lead to the development of resistant strains of pathogenic bacteria. Therefore, novel antibacterial compounds of natural products which degrade easily need to be synthesized to overcome above consequences. Aim of this study was to find out the antibacterial efficacy of Mangrove Rhizophora mucronata extracts on aquatic bacterial pathogens, to be used as a remedy to treat fish diseases. Methodology Fresh matured leaves of six mangrove plant species (Avicennia marina, Lumnitzera racemosa, Bruguiera sexangula, Acanthus ilicifolius, Excoecaria agallocha and Rhizophora mucronata) were collected from mangrove reserve at Kadolkele, Negombo and were brought to the laboratory for making extractions. Initially, preliminary trials were conducted for identification of most suitable species with antibacterial properties against four aquatic pathogens Listeria monocytogenes) in vitro by well diffusion method. Upon identification of Rhizophora mucronata having the highest inhibitory zone for tested bacteria, further analysis were performed using various parts such as roots, barks, flowers and fruits of R. mucronata. The solvent was extracted by mixing 8 g of each part of mangrove in powder form, with 125 ml of 95% methanol and evaporating methanol using rotary flash evaporator (model 519-00000-00- 3). Antibacterial efficacy was assessed against all four species of fish pathogens, using was used as the positive control against Rhizophora mucronata extractions of 350 mgml each. After 24 hour incubation at 25 o C, the diameters of the inhibitory zones were obtained and statistically analyzed by using One way-ANOVA incorporated in Minitab version 16. Results and Discussion All six mangrove species showed antibacterial activity against Listeria monocytogenes, Pseudomonas fluorescens, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa significantly (p<0.05) but insignificant for Shigella flexneri (p>0.05). Highest inhibition zones were observed in Rhizophora mucronata leaf extract against all bacteria examined for the study (Table 1). Rhizophora mucronata extracts (root, bark, fruit and flower) also exhibited positive inhibition zones for all the tested bacterial species cultured in vitro. Root and bark extracts possessed higher antibacterial potential when compared to the fruit and flower extracts. Rhizophora leaf extracts showed highest inhibition for Listeria monocytogenes and Pseudomonas fluorescens while root and bark extracts were effective against Shigella flexneri and Pseudomonas aeruginosa respectively (Figure 1). The overall mean comparative evaluation on antibacterial efficacy of Rhizophora mucronata extracts displayed the highest in leaves followed by the root, bark and fruit extracts. The minimum antibacterial activity was observed in the flower extracts.
Antimicrobial Activity of Ageratum conyzoides against Staphylococcus aureus
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2013) Dilrukshi, P.A.D.M.; Premathilake, S.N.; Wijesekara, K.B.
Ageratum conyzoides is a native annual branching herb, which grows to approximately 1 m in height and usually found open and abandoned areas . This plant is commonly used in traditional medicine, especially for wound healing (Sing et al., 2012). Methodswhich are usedinhealing wound infections include debridement, antibiotics, tissue grafts and proteolytic enzymes. However, these methods have major drawbacks and unwanted side effects. Recently there is a tendency towards the uses of traditional medicines as it shows the better cultural acceptability and better compatibility with the human body and also fewer side effects (Parekh et al., 2005). Fresh plant materials of A.conyzoides were collected and washed using tap water .Then they were separated into flowers, leaves, roots and stems and were air dried in shade for 7 days and powdered using mortar and pestle. The powdered plant materials were sieved and stored in airtight containers. Plant material extracts were obtained with 95% methanol using the soxhlet apparatus. Each extracts were concentrated and solvents were fully evaporated, by rotary evaporator (150 rpm) at 40 C. The obtained concentrates were transferred to McCarthy glass vials and placed under room temperature for complete dryness. Then they were stored in airtight vials under refrigerated conditions. Staphylococcus aureuspure cultures were collected from the Medical Research Institute (MRI) Colombo and from them liquid cultures were prepared using Nutrient broth. Then they were incubated at 37°C for 24 hrs. The powdered plant materials were measured into separate McCartney bottles and appropriate volume of the extracts were added to make a stock solution of 200mg/mL. Sterile nutrient agar plates were prepared and allowed to solidify. A 0.1 mL of liquid culture of S. aureuswas spread equally on the solidified nutrient agar plate. After one hour five wells were dug in each plates using a sterile cork borer (5mm diameter).Concentration series of extracts (200mg/mL, 100mg/mL,50 mg/mL, 25mg/mL and 12.5 mg/mL) were prepared and from them 0.5mLof extracts were added to wells in appropriately labelled plates. As the control 95% methanol was used. The plates were left on the bench for few minutes for the extract to diffuse into the agar and later incubated at 37°C for 24hours. After the incubation the zone of clearance around each well was measured using a metric ruler by taking measurement of the inhibition zones. Minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) was determined for extracts that showed less than 7 mm(<7 mm) diameter inhibition zone.
Antimicrobial Activity of Seagrss (Cymodocea serrulata) from South West Coast of Sri Lanka
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2013) Arulananthan, A.; De Silva, D. P. N.; Jayamanne, S. C.; Dalpatadu, S.L.; Senaratne, S. G.
Sri Lanka has rich oceanic vegetation along its coastal water bodies. However, utilization of them is limited when compared to terrestrial plants which are used as natural alternatives especially in Ayurveda remedy. It is expected that marine vegetation also ensure the potential bioactivity. Marine plants derived natural products are known as secondary metabolites which are bioactive compounds responsible for antimicrobial activities. Documented results from most of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Ocean resultant macro algae exhibits broad range of biological activities. Some of these are antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral etc. On the other hand, few literature are available on the therapeutic values of seagrasses in Sri Lanka. Therefore, the objective of this study was to test the antimicrobial activity of some selected seagrass species collected from the Beruwela beach rocky platforms and Hikkaduwa coast of Sri Lanka. Methodology Collection and preparation of samples - The fresh seagrass species (Cymodocea serrulata) was collected by hand picking during the low tidal conditions from the submerged rocky platforms of Barberrian reef and in Hikkaduwa coast. The collected vegetation was cleaned well with tap water and distilled water. Then the samples were drained and spread on the filter paper to remove excess water. Samples were chopped into nearly 1cm length pieces prior to grinding using liquid nitrogen. Solvent extraction - Coarsely powdered samples were subjected to solvent extraction by using chloroform, methanol and water solvents. The powdered form of samples and solvents were taken (1:10 w/v) and kept for 24 hours at room temperature (27 °C) in the orbital shaker at 150 rpm. Later, the extracts were filtered through a Buchner funnel with muslin cloth followed by Whatman number 1 filter paper. The resulting filtrates were concentrated by using rotary evaporator. Test microorganism - Human pathogenic Gram positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, Gram negative bacteria- Escherichia coli, and a fungal species Candida albicans were used to defeat the antimicrobial activity of C. serrulata. Antimicrobial susceptibility test - Antimicrobial activity of extracts was performed by using the disc diffusion method and agar well diffusion method. The stock solution was prepared with extract of 100 mg/ ml concentration of respective solvents. Sterile discs of 6 mm diameter were prepared in three different quantities (1 mg, 2 mg, and 5 mg). Each plate contained discs with three different quantities and negative control. Agar well diffusion method was carried with all extracts in same concentration as 100 mg/ ml in three different quantities (5 mg, 10 mg and 20 mg). In positive control Kanamycin 10 µl (3µg/ µl) was used for bacterial species and Flucanozole (1.25 µg/ µl) was used as antifungal agent. The plates were incubated overnight.
Application of GIS to Identify Potential Areas for Aquaculture in Badulla District in Uva Province
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2013) Sandamali, M.A.N.; Rathnayake, R.M.C.W.M.; Liyanage, N.P.P.; Jayamanne, S.C.
Aquaculture is farming aquatic organisms including fish, mollusks, crustaceans and aquatic plants (FAO, 1990). The main intent of the present study is to highlight the role Geographic Information System (GIS) in identifying potential areas for aquaculture in Badulla district. The study was carried out in Badulla district in Sri Lanka by the geographical coordinates of longitude 80 .45 to 81 .15. Latitude 6 .34 to 7 .18. Data have been collected from secondary sources and used to generate maps to identify fresh water bodies in Badulla district. Map of seasonal tanks, reservoirs and tanks, stream network and rivers of Badulla district were developed. Water availability (proximity to rivers), soil texture, soil pH, rainfall, temperature and topography (slope, elevation) and land use factors were considered to identify potential areas for aquaculture (pond culture). Protected areas are considered as constraints. Water availability, soil texture, soil pH, slope, elevation, rainfall, temperature, land use/ land cover thematic layers were created using ArcGIS 10.1 software. All these thematic layers have been assigned the weights according to their relative influence on pond construction using Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and GIS approach. Finally, all thematic layers have been integrated in a ArcGIS 10.1 environment to generate an aquaculture potential map. Thus, four aquaculture potential areas have been Identified, viz. “Most suitable”, “Suitable”, “Fairly suitable”, “Unsuitable”. The north part of the Badulla district is identified as most suitable and the southern part of the Badulla district is identified fairly and unsuitable for aquaculture in Badulla district. Methodology Data collection: Secondary data were collected from secondary sources. GIS analysis: reservoirs and tanks, Rivers, Stream network of Badulla district were digitized using Arc View 3.1 software. GPS coordinates of seasonal tanks were stored & developed a map using ArcGIS 10.1 software to identify fresh water resources in Badulla district and all data were stored in ArcGIS 10.1 environment and factor thematic layers were generated to identify potential areas for aquaculture. Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) - AHP is a multi-objective, multi criteria decision making approach that employs a pair wise comparison procedure to arrive at a scale of preference among a set of alternatives (Dai et al., 2001). Thematic layers were evaluated using scores and each weighted according to their relative importance on the aquaculture using Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and GIS approach. Map Generation -Each thematic layer was evaluated using the scores that were obtained according to the weighted linear combination in ArcGIS 10.1 environment. Vector format was converted to raster format. To reject the constraints the final result was multiplied by absolute constraints. The protected areas were allocated a zero score. Finally, the potential areas for aquaculture map was created and categorized into four levels: Most suitable, Suitable, Fairly suitable, Unsuitable based on the total scores obtained from the weighted linear combination.
Artificial Neural Network based Signature Recognition and Verification System
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2013) Prabodith, N.P.C.; Wimaladharma, S.T.C.I.
The signature is an important biometric attribute of a person which can be used to authenticate the personal identity because of its uniqueness for each person. Now a day the personal signature has a significant value in day to day works. Because of its uniqueness there is a certain pattern which can be identified by extracting certain unique features. Though in present days signatures are using as the valid authentication mechanism, some peoples are trying to imitate another person’s signature to achieve some narrow goals. It is also common sight in Sri Lanka place like banks, government organizations, universities etc. Therefore, it is essential to introduce a high accuracy validation mechanism for personal authentication. The proposed system uses an efficient image processing and feature extraction methods as well as well-trained neural network system. Methodology Implementation of the system mainly based on two phases, Training phase and recognition phase. Several technologies, Programming languages and Libraries are used to design and implement the system. In the training phase there are several steps to be completed by the system before the training get started. In pre-processing activities, system is mainly focusing on background elimination, cropping (crop signature image according to the signature bounds), thresholding, thinning, and image width transformation (Abikoye et al., 2011). Feature extraction is one of the important parts of the system because powerful features directly affect to the accuracy of the final output. In here firstly, system will collect some global features such as pixel density, width to height ratio, maximum horizontal count and maximum vertical count. Then system will extract some unique points based on vertical splitting and horizontal splitting (Ashwiniet al., 2012). Those feature points are related with the image geometric centre point. After the feature extraction process is completed and then system normalizes all the features and added them to the input vector. Main purpose of the normalization is to convert values into an acceptable range for the neural network (range between 0 and 1). Then, the normalize data are used to train the Neural Network. In the Recognition phase, all the steps up to feature normalization are accomplished and those features are compared with trained Neural Network. Finally, the system will generate a unique value and which reveals the acceptance and rejection of the relevant signature.
Assessment of Sensory Profile and Shelf Life of Milk Based Rice Flour Biscuits
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2013) Pathmasiri, G.K.M.M.; Ranasinghe, M.K.; Gunawardena, L.K.A.
Most people prefer to consume ready to eat food products. Wheat flour is the most commonly used flour due to its high rising ability of dough gluten, but it contains certain health hazards. Rice flour is one of the most valuable nutritional foods with high wellbeing value. The study was focused on to development of milk based rice biscuit which is high nutrient and healthy. There were two preliminary trials to determine the best milk type and suitable stabilizer. Based on preliminary trials, pasteurized milk and xanthan gum were selected as milk and stabilizer for the product. There were five treatments with pasteurized milk ranging from 75% - 55% (v/w) and xanthan gum as 1.25% - 5.75% (w/w). Best levels were selected using 30 untrained panelists. Proximate analysis yeast and mold, coliform and E.coli were analyzed for the final product. Sensory data were analyzed by the Friedman test and physiochemical and microbial data were analyzed using t- test in MINITAB 16 software. The biscuit containing 65% (v/w) pasteurized milk and 0.25% (w/w) xanthan gum level was the best treatment. There is no significant difference between stabilizer treatments except with mouth feel and texture attributes (P>0.05). Selected best sample consists of 3%±0.02 moisture, 10%±0.04 protein and 23.5%±0.2 fat content and physiochemical and microbiological parameters were in accordance with the SLS standards during one month of storage at room temperature.This product can be produce easily and have longer shelflife at room temperature.
Assessment of the antibacterial activity and genetic diversity of three black pepper varieties (Piper nigrum Linn.)
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2013) Karunathilaka, K.A.S.; Pathirana, P.R.S.; Rajapaksha, I.G.M.; Thilakarathne, L.; Heenkenda, A.P.; Senevirathne, J.M.; Dunuwille, S.W.M.B.; Sooriyapathirana, S.D.S.S.
Piper nigrum (black pepper) is an important spice to enhance flavor, color, aroma and taste of food. Black pepper is also considered as a medicinal plant species which is used to treat asthma, chronic indigestion, obesity, sinus, congestion and fever (Ravindran, 2000). It has an antibacterial activity further highlighting its medicinal importance (Dorman and Dean, 2000). In Sri Lanka, black pepper is considered as one of the important export agricultural crops. However, neither medicinal properties nor the antibacterial effect of pepper in Sri Lankan pepper germplasm has been studied in detail. In neighboring India, there were reports on the antibacterial activity of pepper on Bacillus cereus and Bacillus subtilis (Perez and Anesini, 1994). According to Chaudhry and Tariq, (2006) “piperine, ([1-[5-[1, 3-benzodioxol-5-yl]-1- oxo-2, 4, pentadienylpiperridine), a pungent alkaloid present in black pepper enhances the bioavailability of various structurally and therapeutically diverse drugs”. The genetic diversity of pepper germplasm has been studied using Inter-Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) markers, microsatellite markers and Randomly Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers. The present study was conducted to assess the antibacterial activity of pepper oleoresin (an extract from pepper) from three varieties of P. nigrum in Sri Lanka and also to assess their genetic diversity using RAPD markers. Methodology P. nigrum samples: three P. nigrum varieties, Panniyur-1, MB12 and GK49 were used for the analysis. Seeds were collected from these three varieties to extract oleoresin and young leaves were picked to extract DNA. The samples were collected from Central Research Station, Department of Export Agriculture, Matale, Sri Lanka. Preparation of oleoresin: pepper seeds were ground into a fine powder using a mechanical grinder. Ten grams of powder was weighed and filled into a thimble. The thimble was placed in a Soxhelt apparatus and was exposed to several cycles of distillation. The concentrated solution was rotary evaporated to extract the oleoresin. Evaluation of the antibacterial activity: the antibacterial activity of pepper oleoresin against Escherichia coli (Ingerson-Mahar and Reid, 2011) and Staphylococcus aureus using agar well diffusion method. Mueller Hinton agar plates were prepared. The two strains of microbial solution were prepared with compared to the 0.5 McFarland solution and then they were spreaded on the agar surfaces. Wells were cut by using sterile cork borer and bottom of the wells was sealed with a little bit of medium. Pepper oleoresins were loaded in to the wells by using a micropipette and petri dishes were finally incubated at 37 C for overnight in an incubator.
Augmented Reality Based Advertising System for Modern Home Items
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2013) Wickramasinghe, A.A.M.W.; Wickramarathna, S.D.H.S.
The main purpose behind this project concept is take full advantage of the internet and mobile world as a powerful marketing channel for profitable and interactive shopping. The system is capable for the control of the shopping experience is placed firmly in the consumer’s hand with the advanced technological experience with Augmented Reality concept. The basic goals of the research can identified as augmented reality for usable business model (Schwald et al., 2003). The users can experience the virtual 3D object interactively with the real environment. Therefore it allows users to visualize how a certain concept would look like in their home even before buying it using 3D models and video augmented advertising. The system consists with mobile application and a web site. This system will be also useful as an advertising system between consumers and dealers .And also this system is a further step to introduce last technologies in the world of marketing. As a whole user can provide the image of maker in to the system, which used to identify the position to locate the rendered 3D object. Then the application should launch from the android phone and the focus the camera towards the marker. The system starts recognition process and then rendered the particular 3D view of the selected item on to the marker. After the rendered process completed the system options allowed the user to apply the system co functionalities such as 3D model resizing, rotation and transition based on user preference. Methodology Basic foundation of the whole system is augmented reality. Augmented reality, when classified (Milgram et al., 1994) can be placed in between a real environment and a virtual one .The developed system based on Android operating system and developed using java and xml. HTML and java script were used for the web development. AR Toolkit was the foundation for the system development which is an open source framework. The complex scenarios tracking markers and calculating transformation matrix like complex processes were handled using AR Toolkit. Initially the image marker tracked by the video capture and read the pattern related with the marker and the related capture parameters. Then the system detects the makers and recognized the patterns related with video input. Then calculate the camera transformations and render the 3D model on the detected pattern. In the scenario of the video playing the recognized the images within the video capture and then compared it with the inner storage gray scale images and render the relevant video output on the detected image. The system architecture is shown in the Figure 1. The system is relies on OpenGL for rendering purpose which is the main role of the whole developed system and GLUT which is responsible for creating OpenGL window. The marker It must be square in shape, borders must contrast well and the border must be a solid color. The image used for the video rendering should be gray scale and have identical edges within it. Due to the system performances based rely on the device capabilities the system testing was conducted over number of devices in the development process.
Automated Ceramic Tile Defects Inspection System Based on Texture Analysis
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2013) Rangana, G.D.S.; Wimaladharma, T. C. I.
The ceramic tile manufacturing process has now been completely automated. When it comes to the final stage of the production, there are different types of surface defects such as holes, dirty spots, color bleeding, etc. Some of the defects are difficult to distinguish with the traditional techniques such as visual inspection. (Boukouvalas et al., 1994) The proposed system is to develop an integrated system for the detection of defects on ceramic tiles based on image processing and embedded system. Methodology Instead of human vision, computer vision system is used to classify the tile. First of all a picture of the tile is taken and image processing steps are applied to image. This stage includes pre- processing, image enhancement and feature comparison techniques. After getting the data consisting of the frequencies of masks, RULES-3 algorithm (Aksoy, 1993) is employed to determine the level of defect of the tile based on the features extracted and then pattern recognition is performed. Based on the output produced by the image processing system, the microcontroller and the camera are controlled. In this process camera takes a picture of the tile and send it to the image processing program. After analyzing the image, relevant signal is generated by the system and passed to the microcontroller to control the production line. Due to the availability of pre-defined libraries for the implementation, Visual Studio framework has been used for implementation and 16F877A microcontroller is used as the controlling component. Result and Discussion The above automatic inspection procedures have been implemented and tested on a number of tiles using synthetic and real defects. Accuracy of color object recognition part depends on light condition of the environment and accuracy of the results of image processing program depends on the quality of the image. Further, the micro-controlling process (hardware component: figure 1) depends on the results produced by the computer system (application software: figure 2). The results suggest that the performance is adequate to provide a basis for a viable commercial visual inspection system.
Awareness of Tea Small Holders on Climate Change: A Case of Tea Small Holders in Badulla District
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2013) Rathnayaka, D.M.W.P.; Gunathilaka, R.P.D.
Climate change has emerged as one of the most devastating environmental threats. Impacts of climate change on human and natural systems are predicted to be severe. According to the Sri Lanka Country Report on Climate Change (Year), increase of temperature by 2070 will be 0.4 to 3 C. Rainfall increase, as precipitation, is expected by 10% in the wet zone for both dry and wet seasons. The possibility of 10% increase in length of the dry and wet spells in main plantation areas has also been indicated (Wijeratne, 1996). Since tea is primarily a rain-fed crop tea production will be particularly affected unless early efforts are made to help farmers adapt. There is an urgent need to sensitize the farmers regarding climate change and its effects and causes. They need to be supported to increase their resilience to the changing conditions (Pandve, 2007). Adaptation is largely dependent on the availability of information relevant to climate change (Semenza, Ploubidis & George, 2011). Awareness of climate change help tea smallholders plan their production activities and reduce risks and uncertainties associated with farming (Banmeke & Ayanda, 2011). Therefore, this research aimed to investigate the awareness and perception of tea smallholders on climate change. Methodology Hundred and fifty tea small holders were selected from Badulla district by using simple random sampling technique. A structured questionnaire and direct interview method were used to collect data. The questionnaire was pretested using 10 small holders. Identified social factors were age, gender, marital status, religion, farming experience, and education level. Awareness of climate change was achieved through main three criteria namely, awareness that climate change is happening, awareness of the causes of climate change, and awareness of the effects of climate change. These three kinds of awareness were ascertained by using a four point scales, unaware, slightly aware, moderately aware, and full aware. Perception on respondent’s awareness on climate change issues, adaptation methods and sources of information was identified. Data were analyzed descriptively and inferential statistically by using statistical package for the social science (SPSS). General characteristics of the sample were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Chi square test was used to examine the association between socio economic variables and awareness on climate change (happening), awareness of the causes of climate change, and awareness of the effects of climate change.
Biocoagulation and Its Potential Application for Graphite Bioprocessing
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2013) Jayarathna, S.P.B.L.; Peries, C.M.; Henegamage, A.P.
Sri Lanka is famous for Graphite industry since ancient times around the world. There are three major Graphite mines which are located in Kahatagaha, Bogala and Ragedara. Vein type graphite deposits in Sri Lanka are considered as a unique occurrence of graphite because of its high purity, extensive mineralization and restricted occurrence. Graphite with 95-99% of carbon and gangue minerals such as pyrite, chalcopyrite, calcite, biotite and feldspars are found in each structural type depending on the mode of occurrences and nature of graphite vein (Amarweeraet al., 2013). Hence, removal of impurities from the graphite can increase the economic value of graphite. Flotation cell is common in Graphite industry to upgrade its carbon grade by removing impurities and it can be used to upgrade over 80 % Graphite in Sri Lanka However, efficiency of the flotation cell separation is not effective for Graphite with small particle sizes (Karr et al., 1990). Biocoagulation is the promising method, practiced in all over the world for sorting of small sized mineral particles with the use of microorganisms (Kuyumcuet al., 2009). Therefore, this study is focused to increase the carbon recovery in Graphite through the separation of fine particles using the biocoagulation with microorganisms. Methodology Three different particle sizes (40µm, 53µm and 72µm) of graphite samples were obtained from Bogala and Kahatagaha mines. Isolation of fungi was carried out from the obtained samples using dilution plate techniques with Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) medium. Pure cultures of the isolated fungi were obtained using single spore isolation technique with the same medium. Isolated pure fungi cultures were inoculated in to 20 ml of Potato Dextrose Broth (PDB) and incubated for 48 hours at 30 C. Then the pH values of the each fungi broth cultures were measured separately. Two grams of each different graphite samples with different particle sizes were mixed with the incubated PDB and kept with continuous mixing for the coagulation. After four days of incubation, the number of coagulates in each broth cultures was counted using the light microscope and the fungal broth culture (F3) which was given the highest coagulates number was selected for the further processing. In order to determine the carbon grade of the sample, coagulates of the selected broth culture were carefully separated out from the broth medium and washed with distilled water for three times. Then the particles with the coagulates were kept in a muffle furnace at 500 C for two hours in order to remove microbial biomass from graphite particles followed by keeping the samples again in muffle furnace at 960 C for further digestion. Initial and the final weights of the sample were measured to calculate the percentage of carbon recovery. Three replicates were maintained for each treatment and data were analyzed using ANOVA with the confidence level of 95% using MINITAB statistical software.
A Biological Treatment for Color Removal in Distillery Effluents
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2013) Dilini, L.M.L.; Premathilake, M.M.S.N.; Udagedara, D.T.
Distilleries are one of the industries generating enormous amount of wastewater which is about 10–15 L of effluent for the production of 1 L of alcohol. The fermentation of carbohydrates present in molasses is carried out by yeasts, which yields ethyl alcohol. The pH of the raw molasses is adjusted to 4 - 4.5 to prevent bacterial growth and then fermented liquor containing alcohol is degasified and alcohol is separated, leaving behind the waste called “spent wash”. The spent wash is the major polluting waste of the distillery, which has very high Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) and Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) values. The COD often crosses and BOD reaches7×10 mgL (Goel, 2006).The waste is dark brown in color due to caremalization of some sugar. It also contains nearly 2% of the dark brown recalcitrant pigment called melanoidin, which does not get degraded easily by microorganisms, posing a great difficulty in its removal. Molasses has very high quantity of fermentable sugars. These sugars react with amino acids and undergo Maillard reaction and then polymerize to form melanoidin, which is a major color containing compound in the distillery effluent. Putrescible organics like skatole, indole and other sulfur compounds produces obnoxious smell in the effluent and when it comes in contact with high temperature, becomes more toxic to aquatic biota. The waste has substantial quantities of dissolved solids and suspended solids with high . The pH of spent wash remains in the acidic range varying from 3 to 5.4 (Goel, 2006). The distillery waste also has high quantities of potassium along with sulphates. Melanoidin containing distillery effluents require pretreatment before safe disposal into the environment, because the direct disposal causes serious soil and water pollution by inducing coloration and eutrophication problems in aquatic environments- which leads to reduction of sunlight penetration in water bodies. Additionally, it in turn decreases both photosynthetic activity and DO concentration affecting the normal life cycle of aquatic fauna and flora (Goel, 2006). Further, it causes reduction in soil alkalinity, inhibition of seed germination and damage to vegetation upon land disposal. Treatment of distillery wastewaters by physical or chemical methods was found not feasible due to the high cost and generation of secondary pollutants. But compared to them biological treatments are more economical and environmental friendly. Many fungi species have the ability of removing color from wastewaters. Especially white rot fungi exhibit extensive bioremediation activities that are mainly based upon their capabilities to produce extracellular lignin modifying enzymes (Pant and Adholeya, 2007). In this research we studied several white rot fungi activity towards decolorization of distillery effluents. Methodology Ten polyporusbasidiomycetes white rot fungi species were collected for distillery waste water treatment from Matara area.Effluent was collected from Pelwatte distillery inButtala. Effluent was dark brown in color, semi liquid and a dense material. About 5mm squares were cut from collected basidiocarps and placed on PDA plates and were incubated for 7 days. Among them, five fungal species were selected for the experiment due to their rapid growth. Above efficiently growing five fungal specieswere isolated using streak plate method. Streaked cultures were incubated again for 7 days.Then, using these cultures new plates were prepared by spread plate method incubatingagain for seven days.
Bone Crack Detector based on X-Ray using Fuzzy Logic and Neural Network
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2013) Abesinghe, K.A.W.P.; Wickramarathna, S.D.H.S.
An x-ray (radiograph) is a noninvasive medical test (Tian Tai Pengn, 2002) that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. X-Ray images are used by doctors to detect the crack and abnormal conditions of the bones. Doctors are analyzing thousands of X-Ray images at hospital day by day. That activity is monotonous and also consuming lot of time. Bones contain much calcium, which due to its relatively high atomic number absorbs X-Rays efficiently. This reduces the amount ofX-rays reaching the detector in the shadow of the bones, making them clearly visible on the radiograph. A recognition system has three parts; Image Processing and feature extraction, Fuzzy Logic based identification and Neural Network based verification. The main objective of this study is Computer-assisted decision-making system to detect the crack of the bone in X-Ray image. Image Preprocessing is applying for enhance the features of the image. Edges based filters apply for enhance the edges because edges perform the vital role for detecting the crack of the bone image. Then system detects the edges of the image using canny edge detector. Background of the image is eliminated as the next step. System is finally detecting the edges that could be a crack or not. System could detect the actual crack and also some specific features of the bone. Those specific features of the bone are smooth lines and cracks are rough line. Using that specific characteristics system separate crack lines form some features of the bone. Finally abstract the features information for Fuzzyfication. Fuzzy Classifier contains fuzzy inference engine, input output variables. Input variables are information about the edges. Output variables are the detected crack. System is using two fuzzy sets and three fuzzy functions for each fuzzy set. One fuzzy set is Fuzzy Multiplication and other is Fuzzy Ratio. The fuzzy rules calculate the output and those outputs send to Neural Network for verification. Neural Network (Davis et al., 1999) takes the input from the Fuzzyfication and specific some parameters taken from image. Eight neurons for input layers, ten neurons for hidden layer and three neurons for output layer use for Neural Network. Supervise training uses for trains the Neural Network. Output obtains as pattern. Finally Neural Network verifies the fuzzy output and correctly says crack or not a crack.
Comparative Analysis of Manual and Mechanical Tea Harvesting
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2013) Kanthi, G.M.P.; Gunathilaka, R.P.D.; Amarasingha, F.
Harvesting operation was critically defined as the most labour intensive and most costly field operation at a tea plantation and therefore the need of innovative strategies to setup for this step was highlighted by the economic evaluations. The setting for a new strategy in harvesting became more difficult and caused to more criticisms, because the economic profitability and quality of output were two different ends of a product or an output. Therefore, the developing of integrated approach to assure the better output requires great potential. The concept of mechanical harvesting was given an innovative potential to the plantations as the best solution for labour shortage at the harvesting operation. Therefore the plantation people were looking for a better harvesting approach from that. However, the leading solution from existing mechanical harvesting is not efficient to overcome the labour shortage and high cost of production. This research is to evaluate the impacts of mechanical harvesting using the experimental data obtained for harvesting with different mechanical devices against the manual harvesting. Methodology Second year Vegetative Propagated (VP) tea field was alienated and plot was made which included 3000 tea bushes. Uniformity of each bush was assured with the age, soil quality etc. Field experiment was conducted with the Completely Randomized Block Design that followed 3 treatments, 3 replicates and 3 blocks. There were 3 treatments namely machine (T1), shear (T2) and manual harvesting (T3). Three blocks were established in terms of the variability of slope at the land (A, B, C). Therefore the nuisance factor was the slope. Each block was divided into three plots that each had 333 plants. These plots were again divided into three sub plots that each had 111 plants. Plot which consisted of 111 plants was taken as one replicate and therefore one block contained three treatments and three replicates and altogether 09 experimental units. Three blocks contained total 27 experimental units. Randomization procedure was done by using the lottery method. Independent variable was the method of harvesting. Profitability of each method was reviewed by concerning the various aspects of output including the indicators for productivity and quality. Those dependent variables are the yield (Kg Ha Round Acceptable flush (%), Harvesting capacity (Ha Day Labour ), Productivity (Kg Day Labour ). Quality of harvested green leaves was monitored by concentrating on harvesting policies and shoot growth pattern. Data collection was carried out for 10 consecutive plucking rounds.
A Comparative Study on the Diversity of Seagrass Species in a Selected Area of Puttalam Lagoon
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2013) Ranahewa, T.H.; Jayamanne, S.C.; Gunasekara, A.J.M.
Seagrasses are aquatic angiosperms which are widely spread in shallow marine environment (Kuo and Hartog, 2000). Providing habitat grounds for large numbers of fish and shellfish species, act as a largest carbon sink, support a large number of epiphytic organisms, bind the sediment together and stabilizing sea bottom (Johnson and Johnstone, 1995) are the importance of seagrasses. Puttalam lagoon which is located in Puttalam district of Northwestern Province of Sri Lanka that covers 32700 ha (Johnson and Johnstone, 1995). There are fifteen species of seagrasses have been recorded in Sri Lanka including two families, 12 genera (Amarasinghe and De Silva, 2007). Main objective of the research is to compare changes of seagrass distribution from 1991 to 2013 where as to evaluate relationship between distribution of seagrasses with the states of water quality of selected locations of Puttalam lagoon and to compare the distribution of seagrass species according to salinity levels of each location are specific objectives. Methodology The present study was carried out in selected areas of Puttalam lagoon during the period of May to September in 2013. Kalpitiya, Kuringipitiya, Palliwasalthurai, Kandakuda, Palavi and Puttalam were the selected sites for the data collection (Figure 1). Geographic Position System (GPS) data of the site were recorded and point transect method was used for the sampling. Three line transects of each location were used. Typically transects were perpendicular to the shore and parallel to each other. Cover of seagrasses within a quadrant with 0.5 m * 0.5 m was measured at every 3 m mark of the 30 m by walking and snorkeling until transect was completed. Transects were selected and procedure was carried out in such a way that as same as Jayasuriya, 1991 conducted. Water quality parameters including water temperature (°C), pH, salinity (ppt), conductivity (mS/cm) and dissolved oxygen (mg/L) were measured at the middle of transect two at 10 cm below to the sea surface using Multiparameter meter (Orion Water quality testing was repeated at the same time in the same place once a month and average values were calculated. Same procedure was repeated in other selected locations. Average abundance of seagrass distribution of three transects were calculated. Diversity of seagrass species of each sites were calculated using Shannon - Weiner diversity index. Comparision was conducted using analysis of variance (ANOVA). Percentage abundance of each species were calculated by dividing six sites into two regions as Northwestern and Southeastern according to Jayasuriya, 1991 and compared with the values recorded by Jayasuriya, 1991. Linear regression was conducted to find out relationship between seagrass distribution and water quality parameters.
Comparison of Properties of Leather Made using Plant Oil and Fish Oil as Fatliquors
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2013) Dunukedeniya, D.M.H.E.; Samaraweera, A.M.; Tharangani, R.M.H.; Wickramasingha, W.
The skin of animal which has been processed to retain its flexibility, toughness, and water proof nature is known as leather (Deluca and Longley, 2008). Leather is a durable and flexible material created via the tanning of animal raw hide and skin, primarily cattle hide. In shoe making process flexibility of the leather is very important. In addition to that leather should be water proof to avoid wearing leather clothes, shoes, hand bags and etc. Major leather making processes involves soaking, tanning, retanning, fatliquoring and finishing (Anon, 2011). Among the steps, fatliquoring is the most critical step in the leather manufacturing procedure. Fatliquoring is the process of introducing oil into a skin following tannage but before the leather is dried (Sivakumar et al., 2007). Therefore, this research was carried out to introduce Castor oil and Gingerly oil as fat liquors as a replacement for high cost fish oil. Methodology This study was carried out at Ceylon Leather Products PLC (CLPLC). The laboratory analysis was done at CLPLC and Uva Wellassa University laboratories. For the fatliquoring purpose, castor oil and gingerly oil were selected according to the lubrication power and unsaturation level of the oil. Then, the selected oils were sulfated using 10% and 20% sulfation levels (Anon, 2011) and were used for the fatliquoring purpose, where fish oil was used as the control. The wet blue of cow hides were selected which used for manufacturing of cow tung lining leather. surface area were selected and divided into five samples. After fatliquoring, retanning, toggle drying and staking was carried out for all treatments with equal time and relevant chemical recipe. Finally, the finishing of leather was done by applying color using hand pad and wax using spray machine. Finally the tensile strength and distention were measured using a universal testing machine and a lastometer, respectively. Then sensory evaluation was conducted to evaluate the softness, fullness, loose grain, oiliness in leather surface and the overall acceptability using 10 trained panelists. The sensory data were analyzed using non-parametric procedure, using the Friedman test incorporated in MINITAB 16 software package. Complete Randomized Design (CRD) was used and data obtained were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) incorporated in MINITAB 16 with 95% confidence level (p=0.05). Results and Discussion There is no significant difference in distension of the leather versus different fat liquors used (p>0.05). However, the highest and the lowest mean values for distension were given by gingerly oil with 20% sulfation level (according to the weight of the oil) and castor oil with 10% of sulfation level (according to the weight of the oil), respectively (Figure 1). Higher sulfation levels in oil resulted in higher values in distension due to increased penetration ability of oil into the hide (Anon, 2011).
Comparison of Properties of Vegetable Tanned Leather made from Imported Mimosa and Locally Available Tanning Agents
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2013) Wijethunge, G.P.R.D.; Samaraweera, A.M.; Tharangani, R.M.H.; Wickramasinghe, W.
Leather is a product produced by skins and hides that have been treated to preserve them and make them suitable for use. Leather is a major by-product of meat industry. In Sri Lanka, buffalo, cow and goat hides are used mainly for leather industry producing leather products such as shoes, bags, belts. There are two methods of tanning used in leather production such as vegetable tanning and mineral tanning. In vegetable tanning, plant extracts are used as tanning agent/ tannin and mimosa, an imported product at a high cost is used. In vegetable tanning process there are two types of tannin as catechole and pyragallol (Reed, 1972). Mimosa and tea waste contain catechole tannin and king coconut contains pyragallol tannin. This study was undertaken to find out the properties of locally available tanning agents as an alternative for leather tanning compared to commercially used mimosa. Methodology This study was carried out at the Ceylon Leather Products PLC, Mattakkuliya. Laboratory analysis was done at CLP and Uva Wellassa University laboratories. Cow and buffalo hides were used separately for the leather tanning process. Three tanning agents, mimosa powder, tea waste extract and extract from king coconut husks were used as treatments with three replicates for each treatment. her production process (tanning, bleaching, fat liquoring, drying and plating) was carried ). Tannin extraction from both tea waste and king coconut husk was done manually. King coconut husk was chopped to get tannin extract and tannin density was increased by boiling. Tea waste was boiled to extract tannin from the waste and increased density using high amount of tea waste. During tanning period density and pH of tanning media were adjusted at four days intervals according to the requirement. Tanning penetration and pH changes of the media was measured. Yield, thickness reduction, water absorption, hardness, shrinking temperature and tensile strength were measured in final leather. The sensory evaluation for softness, fullness and overall acceptability of final leather was done using 10 trained panelists. The sensory data were analyzed using non-parametric procedure, according to the Friedman test using Minitab 16 software. Complete Randomized design was conducted and data from tannin absorption, pH changes and properties of leather were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) procedure of Minitab 16 software. Tannin absorption was different with treatments. Mimosa has the highest absorption rate both in cow and buffalo hides (Figure 1). However, absorption rate was low compared to other day. But considering tea and king coconut it absorption was low at the beginning and then gone high and again low with the time (Figure 2). That could be due to type of tannin and purity of them.
Comparison of the Effectiveness of Fertilizer Produced from Tannery Waste with Synthetic Fertilizer for Plant Growth
(Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, 2013) Asangika, H.L.T.; Samaraweera, A.M.; Herath, H.M.S.K.; Wickramasinghe, W.
Tanning is a process by which hides are converted into leather. There are large amount of waste generated during leather processing. Among them fleshing waste, the removed flesh parts from the limed skin during fleshing operation are produced in large quantities (Rach et al., 1997). Animal fleshing, generated from pre-tanning operations constitute about 50 to 60% among tannery solid wastes that are high in protein (50.9%) and collagen (3.5%) (Anim, 2013). Conversely, nitrogen is the most important nutrient which is required for plant growth (Abubakar et al., 2004). Therefore, animal flesh can be used as a good source of nitrogen for the plant growth and this research was carried out to produce liquid nitrogen fertilizer from fleshing waste generated in the tannery. Methodology Flesh samples were collected from Ceylon Leather Products PLC at Mattakkuliya in Sri Lanka. Enzymatic and Alkaline hydrolysis were done separately to hydrolyze the flesh using Erhavit DMC (a proteolytic enzyme) and carbide lime, respectively. Carbide lime (6%), Erhavit DMC (0.4%) and water (200%) were used according to the weight of the flesh (5 kg each) for hydrolysis at 11-13 pH and 37 C and 5 g of bactericide was added to each mixture. Three replicates were done for each treatment and liquid extracts were collected on day 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 to measure the Soluble N % using kjedhal method. Liquid extracts which gave the highest nitrogen content (%) were selected from each treatment as liquid N fertilizer. According to the trials liquid extract from day 6 alkaline hydrolysate and day 10 enzymatic hudrolysate were selected. Selected alkaline and enzymatic hydrolysates, urea (positive control) and without any N fertilizer (Negative control), were applied to 14 days old lettuce plants (Lactuca sativa) to check the effectiveness of fertilizer. Equal quantities of phosphorous and potassium were added to all treatments considering the nutrient requirement of the lettuce plant. Four treatments consisted three replicates including three lettuce plants per replicate. Complete Randomized Design (CRD) was conducted and data was analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and mean comparison was done by Tukey test. Results There is a significant difference among the four treatments and number of leaves of the plant (p<0.05). According to the Figure 1 treatment one was the best because it gave the highest mean value (12.967) compared to other treatments while treatments. Similarly, there is a significant difference among the four treatments and height of the plant in the experiment. According to Figure 2 treatment two was the best because it gave the highest mean value (22.600) compare to other treatments.

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