International Conference on Sustainable Biotechnology [ICoSBi] 2025
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Publication Open Access Genome-Based Analysis of Mutations Driving Ciprofloxacin Resistance in Klebsiella pneumoniae(Department of Applied Sciences, Faculty of Humanities and Sciences,SLIIT, 2025-10-10) Akram, A.; Kawshalya, I.Klebsiella pneumoniae functions as a major pathogenic microorganism that causes pneumonia infections, urinary tract infections, and bloodstream infections. The advanced resistance of K. pneumoniae against ciprofloxacin presents medical professionals with significant management issues for treatment strategies.This research examined ciprofloxacin resistance-related genetic mutations and alterations in K. pneumoniae through detailed analysis of essential DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV genes: gyrA, gyrB, parC, and parE. The research analysed alterations between resistant and susceptible microbial strains through bioinformatics methodology. The scientific confirmation established that ciprofloxacin resistance exhibits a strong relationship with gyrA mutations at Ser83, along with Asp87 positions. Research confirms thatenzyme structure changes caused by these alterations lead to decreased ciprofloxacin binding effectiveness. The mutation of Ser359Ala and Ser367Thr in gyrB increased bacterial resistance slightly when compared to gyrA mutations. Ser80Ile and Glu84Val parC mutations showed a reduction in ciprofloxacin binding ability, thus causing an increase in resistance. The drug-binding site of ciprofloxacin became stronger through parE mutations that included Ile529Leu and Ser458Ala, which reinforced ciprofloxacin resistance. Genomic surveillance must remain active because these research results verify the contribution of these mutations to ciprofloxacin resistance. Research into K. pneumoniae resistance molecular pathways becomes vital for developing antimicrobial strategies as well as for stopping resistance strain proliferation.Publication Open Access Reduced Graphene Oxide-Based Hybrid Electrospun Nanofibers Doped with Green- Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles: An Antibacterial Wound Healing Scaffold(Department of Applied Sciences. Faculty of Humanities and Sciences,SLIIT, 2025-10-10) Sithumini, A. G. P. M.; Rajapakshe, D. N.; De Silva, N.This research focuses on the development of novel antibacterial electrospun fibers composed of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), hydrolyzed collagen (HC), and reduced graphene oxide (rGO), further modified with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) for potential wound healing applications. Green synthesis of AgNPs, using a tea extract, was verified by a colour change from yellowish-brown to dark brown and the appearance of a UVVis absorbance peak at 450 nm. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) revealed mostly spherical AgNPs with a primary size distribution between 10 and 50 nm. Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis confirmed the presence of Ag atoms (a characteristic peak at 3 keV). Particle size analysis indicated an average AgNP size of 133 nm, with a particle size distribution showing a high-intensity peak at 299 nm and a lower-intensity peak at 18.39 nm, and a polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.471. SEM images of rGO-containing mats showed well-preserved fiber morphology with uniformly distributed AgNPs, in contrast to mats without rGO, where significant AgNP agglomeration covered fiber visibility. This suggests rGO's role in preventing nanoparticle aggregation and enhancing dispersion. Swelling ratio analysis demonstrated superior swelling in rGO-containing mats, reaching 390.48% after 48 hours compared to 273.6% for mats without rGO. The incorporation of rGO improves the antibacterial performance and mechanical properties of the scaffold, while green-synthesized nanoparticles further enhance the antibacterial efficacy.Publication Open Access The Prevalence of β-Fibrinogen -455G/A Variant among Young Stroke Patients in Sri Lanka(Department of Applied Sciences. Faculty of Humanities and Sciences,SLIIT, 2025-10-10) Weerasinghe, D. D.; Wetthasinghe, T. K.; Kasturiarachchi, J.Stroke in young adults (< 50 years) is an emerging public health concern, with both environmental and genetic factors contributing to its pathogenesis. Stroke is the second most common cause of death in the world. A stroke can be caused by a blood clot in the brain, causing brain damage that leads to disabilities, diminishing the patient’s quality of life. The incidence of stroke in young patients is increasing in globaland Sri Lankan populations, making young stroke a common diagnosis. A patient’s genetic makeup can make them more susceptible to stroke, as the level of fibrinogen in the blood rises, increasing the risk of ischemic stroke. The β-fibrinogen gene (FGB), particularly the -455G/A promoter polymorphism, has been implicated in increased plasma fibrinogen levels, thereby enhancing thrombotic risk. This study investigates the prevalence of the β-fibrinogen -455G/A variant among young stroke patients in Sri Lanka and its potential association with ischemic stroke. Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood samples using the Qiagen QIAamp DNA Blood Mini Kit. The DNA was amplified using PCR then Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP) was carried out using Hae III restriction enzyme. The digested products were analysed using gel electrophoresis. Allele frequencies were calculated; the Wildtype allele (p) was 0.82, and the Mutant allele (q) was 0.18, and aligned with the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. These allele frequencies were compared to similar studies to conclude that there was a significant prevalence of the mutant allele in young stroke patients in the Sri Lankan population. The mutant allele in this polymorphism has been associated with an increased plasma fibrinogen level. This variation can be identified as a potential risk factor for stroke in young patients in Sri Lanka.Publication Open Access Influence of Climatic Factors on Dengue Transmission and Larval indices: A Comparative Analysis between Colombo and Nuwara Eliya districts, Sri Lanka(Department of Applied Sciences. Faculty of Humanities and Sciences,SLIIT, 2025-10-10) Selvaratnam, S.; Kawshalya, I.; Jayawardena, T.Dengue fever remains a major public health threat in Sri Lanka, with significant geographic and seasonal variability in incidence rates. This study investigated the impact of climatic variables - temperature, rainfall, and humidity- on dengue transmission dynamics in two ecologically contrasting districts: Colombo, alowland urban tropical zone, and Nuwara Eliya, a high-altitude, cooler region. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study analysed quantitative data from 2017 to 2023 sourced from the Dengue Control Unit and the Department of Meteorology, including monthly dengue cases, precipitation, temperature, relative humidity, and vector indices such as the House Index (HI) and Breteau Index (BI). Qualitative insights were gathered through expert interviews. Findings revealed consistently higher dengue incidence in Colombo, with peak outbreaks aligning with the Yala monsoon season (May–August). In contrast, Nuwara Eliya exhibited lower overall transmission, with occasional peaks during the Maha season (September– December). Elevated HI and BI values in Colombo (HI = 16.6; BI = 25.3 in May 2022) reflect more favourable conditions for Ae. aegypti breeding, while cooler temperatures in Nuwara Eliya generally suppressed vector development, though a notable rise in indices in late 2023 suggested emerging risks due to climaticanomalies. A statistical analysis between dengue incidence and climatic variables, particularly temperature and rainfall were conducted. The study underscores the importance of integrating climate-sensitive entomological surveillance into public health strategies. Tailored vector control efforts, especially in highrisk urban zones like Colombo, and continuous monitoring in emerging-risk areas such as Nuwara Eliya,are essential for early warning and prevention.Publication Open Access Biodegradation of Crystal Violet by Ascomycetous Fungi Isolated from Local Dump Sites: An Approach for Potential Mycoremediation of Textile Dyes(Department of Applied Sciences. Faculty of Humanities and Sciences,SLIIT, 2025-10-10) Piyumali, S. K. K; Manamgoda,D. S.; Udayanga, DDyes are integral elements used to impart colours to textile materials. The wastewater effluent generated from textile industries during the processing and treatment of the dye contains inorganic and organic compounds that are hazardous, thereby posing a serious threat to ecosystems.This study focused on the assessment of the decolourization capability of textile dyes using eleven (11) ascomycetous fungal isolates, obtained from selected local dump site habitats in Sri Lanka.Publication Open Access Biodegradation of Lignocellulosic Waste by Enriched Environmental Microbial Sources and Sequential Fermentation by Saccharomyces Cerevisiae(Department of Applied Sciences. Faculty of Humanities and Sciences,SLIIT, 2025-10-10) Alahakoon, A. H. D.; Rizvi, E. M. J. M.The increasing global demand for energy and the rapid depletion of fossil fuels have led to the search for alternative energy sources. Bioethanol is one option that can be produced from lignocellulose materials, which involves their biodegradation and fermentation. This study investigated the degradation of three lignocellulose waste materials by enriched microbial communities from three environmental sources andtheir sequential fermentation by Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The NaOH-pretreated lignocellulose substrates in a basal medium were inoculated with enriched microbial suspensions and incubated at room temperature. The extent of biodegradation was determined after 5 days of incubation by the gravimetric method. The bioethanol content was estimated by the solvent extraction & dichromate oxidation method after incubating another 3 days with S. cerevisiae. Both the extent of biodegradation and ethanol yield differed significantly among the different lignocellulose-microbial source combinations (p<0.05). The highest biodegradation (80.95%) was found in grass clippings by cow dung microbial consortium, while the lowest degradationwas in palmyra by compost consortium (19.46%). The ethanol yield ranged from 1.24 to 1.87% (V/V) substrate, which was comparable to reported values from similar studies, but it did not correlate with the extent of lignocellulose degradation (r = 0.0378 and P = 0.923). This could be either because microbial consortia, though they are good degraders they are poor saccharifiers, or the fermentation would have been limited by broth conditions. Microbial consortia with high lignocellulose-degrading potential may be formulated from natural microbial sources, but their contribution to ethanol production needs further studies.Publication Open Access Establishment of Micropropagation System for Mulberry (Morus alba L.)(Department of Applied Sciences. Faculty of Humanities and Sciences,SLIIT, 2025-10-10) Munasinghe, S.; Priyadarshani, S. V. G. N.; Chithramali, J.Mulberry (Morus alba L.) is an economically and ecologically significant woody perennial widely cultivated for sericulture, pharmaceuticals, and nutraceutical applications. However, conventional propagation methods are limited by low multiplication rates, genetic heterogeneity, and vulnerability to pests and diseases. This study aimed to develop a standardised and efficient micropropagation protocol for M. alba to support large-scale, uniform plant production. Explants (nodes, stems, and leaves) from healthy threeyear- old mother plants were subjected to ten surface sterilisation treatments using combinations of Clorox (10%), AgNO₃ (0.1 g/L), Tween 20, fungicides, and antibiotics. The optimised sterilisation method achieved a contamination rate of <5% and a survival rate >90%. Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 5.0 mg/L 6-Benzylaminopurine (BAP) and 0.2 mg/L Naphthalene Acetic Acid (NAA) yielded the highest shoot induction and shoot biomass across nodal and leaf explants. Significant callus formation was observed in nodal and stem explants, while browning -particularly in leaf cultures was mitigated using Woody Plant Medium and citric acid.Publication Open Access Identification of Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria in Processed Meat Products Available in Local Markets from Five Selected Localities in Sri Lanka(Department of Applied Sciences. Faculty of Humanities and Sciences,SLIIT, 2025-10-10) Jayakody, U; Vithanage, DThis study focused on identifying antibiotic-resistant bacteria in processed meat products available in Sri Lankan local markets, considering the potential risks caused by inappropriate packaging and storage conditions. Five processed meat samples were purchased from five localities in Sri Lanka and examined on Luria-Bertani (LB) agar medium using both homogenised and direct culture techniques. The Kirby-Bauerdisc diffusion method was used in the Antibiotic Sensitivity Test (ABST) to determine how bacteria responded to various antibiotics. Samples that were improperly packaged revealed the presence of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains, exhibiting resistance to both ampicillin and amoxicillin, while ciprofloxacin sensitivity was observed in every tested bacterium. DNA was extracted from the antibioticresistant bacteria. Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus sp. were confirmed using Polymerase Chain Reaction(PCR) and agarose gel electrophoresis. Although PCR identified many isolates, it was unable to confirm two bacterial species; after additional DNA sequencing analysis, these two unidentified organisms were determined as Enterobacter sp. and Psychrobacter piechaudii. These results demonstrate the significance of appropriate packaging in avoiding the foodborne transmission of bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics.The study additionally indicates that to improve food safety and decrease antibiotic overuse, public awareness and stronger regulations are required. This study improves the understanding of how antibiotic resistance can spread through regularly consumed food products, which helps protect public health.Publication Open Access Unveiling Genetic Diversity of Sri Lankan Avocados using SSR Markers and Morphological Traits(Department of Applied Sciences. Faculty of Humanities and Sciences,SLIIT, 2025-10-10) Wijesundara, V. G.; Divyanjalee, S. D.; Perera, U. I. P.; Niran, H. M. L.; Somaratne, L. H. M. Y. K.Avocado (Persea americana Mill.), a member of the family Lauraceae, is widely recognised as a healthpromoting fruit due to its high content of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which help lower LDL cholesterol levels. Although avocados were introduced to Sri Lanka nearly 200 years ago, the local avocado accessions remain largely uncharacterised. The present study was conducted to characterise 15 avocadoaccessions maintained in the ex-situ germplasm collection at the Fruit Research and Development Institute, Horana, using both molecular and morphological markers. Molecular characterisation was performed using four avocado-specific Short Sequence Repeat (SSR) markers. A total of 20 distinct amplification fragments were detected, with each locus showing four to six alleles.Publication Open Access Foliar and Postharvest Application of Phosphite Promotes Postharvest Resistance of Potato Tubers to Late Blight Caused by Phytophthora infestans(Department of Applied Sciences. Faculty of Humanities and Sciences,SLIIT, 2025-10-10) Mohammadi, M. A; Wang-Pruski, G.Postharvest losses due to late blight, caused by Phytophthora infestans, remain a significant challenge for sustainable potato production. This study evaluated the effectiveness of potassium phosphite (KPhi) applications during the growing season and postharvest in enhancing tuber resistance to late blight in three potato cultivars (Cv. Xinjia No. 2, Cv. Zhongshu No. 3, and Cv. Minshu No. 3). Whole tuber assays were conducted on four-month stored tubers inoculated with ASO and 1-12-25 isolates of P. infestans, revealing that foliar KPhi treatments significantly reduced the disease severity in tubers. Five foliar applications during the growth season provided more protection than three applications. Cv. Xinjia No. 2 displayed higher resistance, Cv. Zhongshu No. 3 has moderate resistance, and Cv. Minshu No. 3 is moderately susceptible. Half-tuber and slice assays confirmed these findings, demonstrating markedly reduced late blight development in KPhi-treated samples compared to the controls, particularly when challenged with the more aggressive ASO isolates versus the 1-12-25 isolates of P. infestans. The most pronounced protection against the 1-12-25 isolates was observed in Cv. Xinjia No. 2. While KPhi did not entirely inhibit rot development at all treatments, it consistently delayed symptom progression and reduced lesion size across all three cultivars. These results support the application of KPhi as an effective, cultivar-dependent strategy for managing late blight development in potato tubers, with the degree of protection positively correlated with the application frequency. Postharvest KPhi application is a promising strategy to reduce tuber late blight, prolong storage life, and limit disease spread.Publication Open Access Phylogenomic and Pangenome Analysis of Human Monkeypox Virus Strains in Recent Outbreaks Identifies Lineage-Specific Diversification(Department of Applied Sciences. Faculty of Humanities and Sciences,SLIIT, 2025-10-10) Batagoda, B. N. N. T.; Senanayake, K. S.Human monkeypox (Mpox) is a significant zoonotic disease that has seen a recent global resurgence, leading to a second WHO Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) declaration in August 2024. This study investigated the genomic diversity and evolutionary dynamics of MPXV using 197 novel complete genomes sequenced between December 2023 and April 2025, alongside two reference sequences. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that recent global outbreak strains predominantly cluster within the West African lineage, distinct from older Central African isolates. The tight clustering of newer isolates, particularly from the USA and Australia, suggests low mutation rates and localised transmission following multiple independent introductions. Pangenome analysis comparing the two reference genomes identified 189 core genes, with clade-specific genes highlighting their evolutionary divergence. The pangenome of the novel isolates contained 238 genes, including 181 highly conserved core genes, and a notable presence of accessory and rare genes. These findings provide insights into Mpox's genomic stability and ongoing diversification as well as lead to identifying potential targets for antivirals and vaccines, emphasising the importance of continuous genomic surveillance.Publication Open Access Identification of Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria in Ready-to-Eat Salads Available in Supermarkets in Thalawathugoda Area, Sri Lanka(Department of Applied Sciences. Faculty of Humanities and Sciences,SLIIT, 2025-10-10) Wanninayaka, P.; Wijeratne, B.The increasing demand for ready-to-eat (RTE) salads has raised concerns about food safety due to the potential for contamination by antibiotic-resistant bacteria. This study focused on the identification of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and their resistance profiles to discover resistant bacterial strains prevalent in RTE salads sold in supermarkets in Thalawathugoda area, Sri Lanka. To confirm the presence of pathogens, five different types of RTE salads were sampled and put through molecular analysis. These included Antibiotic Sensitivity Testing (ABST), DNA extraction, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), Agarose gel electrophoresis, and Sanger sequencing. Antibiotic-resistant bacteria were found in S1 – Greek salad (GS),S3 – Potato salad (PS), S4 – Fresh Mix salad (FS), and S5 – Chicken potatoes and pineapple salad (CS), out of the five samples, according to the results. Amoxicillin displayed the strongest resistance in several samples, while ciprofloxacin was the most effective antibiotic according to ABST sensitivity patterns.Bacteria isolated from S2 - Apple salad (AS) showed sensitivity to each of the three tested antibiotics, suggesting that it is a high-quality sample with little chance of contamination by antibiotic resistant pathogenic bacteria. Staphylococcus spp. and Escherichia coli were detected in tested samples using PCR and agarose gel electrophoresis. Klebsiella quasipneumoniae was identified in S4 through Sanger sequencing,indicating the need for careful handling. The research highlights the significance of maintaining proper hygiene and implementing monitoring practices across the entire food supply chain, from production to retail, to minimize the risk of contamination in RTE salads. Further research and regular microbiological testing are recommended to ensure food safety and protect the health of customers.Publication Open Access Phenanthrene and Naphthalene Biodegradation by Soil Fungi in Agricultural Fields using Mycoremediation Techniques(Department of Applied Sciences. Faculty of Humanities and Sciences,SLIIT, 2025-10-10) Dayawansha, I. P. S. S. M.; Dharmasiri, R. B. N.; Warnakula, S. T.; Prince, F. T.; Akber, F. A. A.; Rathnayaka, R. M. G. B. A.; Madanayaka, K. H.Mycoremediation is a sustainable and environmentally friendly biotechnological approach used to remediate the environment by eliminating organic contaminants such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), pesticides, and heavy metals. This strategy promotes soil health while improving crop productivity. The goal of this study is to identify the soil fungi that have the ability to degrade PAHs, particularly phenanthrene and naphthalene, and to evaluate the degradation efficacy and associated toxicity of identified fungi for sustainable food production. Soil samples were collected from Galle, Matara, Colombo, and Jaffna, among other urbanised areas of Sri Lanka. To isolate fungal colonies, the collected soil samples were serially diluted and plated using the spread plate method on potato dextrose agar (PDA)medium. The isolated colonies were subjected to primary screening in Bushnell Hass (BBH) medium to assess their degradation capacity. After demonstrating positive activity, colonies were selected to assess their capacity to degrade particular PAHs. Fungal strains that showed efficient degradation were identified at the molecular level. Ten morphologically different strains of fungi were identified in the first step. Nine strains showed better PAH degradation in primary screening.Publication Open Access Comparative Analysis of Starch Extracted from Banana (Musa spp.) Corms: Evaluation of Antioxidant Properties and Other Nutritional Properties(Department of Applied Sciences. Faculty of Humanities and Sciences,SLIIT, 2025-10-10) Dahanayake, T. M. W.; Priyadarshani, S. V. G. N.; Gammanpila, H. W.Banana corms are frequently regarded as agricultural waste globally, in contrast to the other parts of the banana plant. This study focuses on developing an optimal procedure for extracting starch from the banana corm and evaluating its antioxidant activity and nutritional composition to determine whether it has the potential to be used in food products. Starch was extracted from the banana corm using the wet milling method, and 1% Ascorbic acid was used to prevent browning. Three Sri Lankan banana varieties, Embul, Ambun, and Alukesel were used in the study. The starch yield ranged between 2.11% to 7.2%, with the highest obtained from Ascorbic acid-treated Embul (Embul-As). Ascorbic acid treatment significantly improved both starch yield and color (p < 0.05). The highest DPPH radical scavenging activity for Ascorbic free samples was given by Embul, which is 1.96 mg AAE/g. Nutritional profiling of Embul-As revealed favorable macronutrient content, including carbohydrate 82.2% and an energy value of 337 kcal/100g. These findings highlight banana corm-starch as a sustainable, underutilized resource with strong potential for innovative applications in food product development.Publication Open Access Development of Plant-Based Yogurt Analogue from Coconut Milk(Department of Applied Sciences. Faculty of Humanities and Sciences,SLIIT, 2025-10-10) Senevirathna, R.M.H.D.; Gunathilaka, R.M.S.; Abeysiriwardana, D.D.S.D.Z.Plant-based “yogurt” products are ideal alternatives to milk for ethical and health concerns. A coconut milk-based “yogurt” was developed in this study, and its physicochemical properties, microbial stability, and sensory attributes were analysed. Changes of coconut milk into “yogurt” involved major changes, such as a reduction of pH from 6.45 to 4.66 and an increase of acidity from 0.17% to 0.68, which suggests asuccessful fermentation. Moisture content was reduced from 83.79% to 70.20%; this improved the texture and consistency of the “yogurt”; total solids increased from 16.21% to 29.80%; these results contribute to a rich flavour profile. As a result, 100% coconut milk “yogurt” and vanilla-flavoured variants were identified as the most preferred by panellists through sensory evaluation. Over four-week shelf-life testing on proof batches revealed no microbial contamination, indicating the absence of yeast, mold, and coliform bacteria. Acidity of increased steadily with storage, necessitating fermentation optimization to strike an appropriate flavour stability and consumer acceptability. Comparative analysis with existing literature proved that coconut milk “yogurt” is nutritious and sensory beneficial but also revealed limitations like its low protein content and difficulty in maintaining consistent flavour over time. Optimization of fermentation processes, further study into alternative plant-based protein and functional additive formulations, as well as adoption of sustainable packaging solutions, are some of the recommendations mentioned. This study provides significant insights into the feasibility of coconut milk “yogurt” as a plant-based dairy alternative, which caters to consumer needs for healthy, low lactose, and more environmentally friendly dairy products.Publication Open Access Detection of Polymorphism in Ethyl Methyl Sulfonate Treated Cordyline fruticosa (L.) A.Chev. mutants using RAPD markers(Department of Applied Sciences. Faculty of Humanities and Sciences,SLIIT, 2025-10-10) Kondapperuma, C.; Hewagamage, H.; Pieris, S. E.Cordyline fruticosa (L.) A. Chev. is an ornamental plant with significant horticultural value but limited genetic diversity, which constrains breeding for improved traits. This study aimed to generate and evaluate genetic and morphological variation in C. fruticosa using Ethyl Methyl Sulfonate (EMS) mutagenesis. In-vitro plantlets were exposed to EMS at concentrations of 1%, 2%, 3%, and 4%, for 10 minutes and their growth was monitored over nine weeks. Key morphological parameters, includingplant height, leaf number, and leaf pigmentation, were recorded to assess the impact of EMS treatment. Genomic DNA was extracted from treated and control plants, and genetic variation was evaluated using Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers. The results demonstrated that EMS induced concentration-dependent changes in plant morphology, with 1% EMS producing the greatest reduction in plant height and leaf number, as well as lighter leaf pigmentation. RAPD analysis revealed increasedgenetic polymorphism in EMS-treated groups compared to the control, with the highest level observed in the 1% EMS treatment. Cluster analysis further confirmed the genetic divergence between treated and control plants. These findings indicate that EMS mutagenesis, particularly at lower concentrations, is effective in generating both morphological and genetic diversity in C. fruticosa. The study provides a foundation for future breeding programs aiming to enhance the ornamental and adaptive traits of thisspecies through targeted mutation breeding.Publication Open Access Formulation and Sensory Evaluation of a Herbal Tea Using Pomegranate Peel(Department of Applied Sciences. Faculty of Humanities and Sciences,SLIIT, 2025-10-10) Perera, S.; Kasturiarachchi, J; Mathangadeera, R.This study evaluates the sensory attributes and physicochemical properties of pomegranate peel-based herbal tea formulations to determine the most acceptable blend. Sensory evaluation was conducted with a semi-trained panel (n=36) using a 9-point hedonic scale to assess aroma, brew colour, taste, astringency, aftertaste, and overall acceptability across five formulations. Statistical analysis using the Friedman test indicated significant differences in sensory acceptability among formulations (p < 0.001). Formulation 567, containing a blend of pomegranate peel powder (PPP), lemongrass powder (LP), ginger powder (GP), and cinnamon powder (CP), exhibited the highest acceptability. In addition, a comparison was made between herbal teas prepared using pomegranate peel powder and those made with coarse pomegranate peel to identify the differences and determine which is most preferred. The findings suggest that formulation 567 offers an optimal balance of sensory qualities, supporting its potential for commercial herbal tea development. This study contributes valuable insights into the utilisation of pomegranate peel waste in functional beverage formulations.Publication Open Access Unveiling Genetic Diversity of Sri Lankan Avocados using SSR Markers and Morphological Traits(Department of Applied Sciences. Faculty of Humanities and Sciences,SLIIT, 2025-10-10) Wijesundara, V. G.; Divyanjalee, S. D.; Perera, U. I. P.; Niran, H. M. L.; Somaratne, L. H. M. Y. K.Avocado (Persea americana Mill.), a member of the family Lauraceae, is widely recognised as a healthpromoting fruit due to its high content of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which help lower LDL cholesterol levels. Although avocados were introduced to Sri Lanka nearly 200 years ago, the local avocado accessions remain largely uncharacterised. The present study was conducted to characterise 15 avocadoaccessions maintained in the ex-situ germplasm collection at the Fruit Research and Development Institute, Horana, using both molecular and morphological markers. Molecular characterisation was performed using four avocado-specific Short Sequence Repeat (SSR) markers.Publication Open Access In silico Analysis of Clinically Significant TP53 Mutations: Implications for Sustainable Cancer Diagnostics(Department of Applied Sciences. Faculty of Humanities and Sciences,SLIIT, 2025-10-10) Senarath, W. C. S.; Nandasena, R. M. I. M.The TP53 tumour suppressor gene is one of the most frequently altered genes in human cancers. Several of its missense variants display distinct clinical relevance. This study aimed to characterise the structural and functional consequences of three well-documented TP53 mutations (R175H, R248Q, and R273H). These mutations remain underexplored in terms of computational evaluation. Variant pathogenicity wasassessed using SIFT and PolyPhen-2, while protein stability changes were predicted with I-Mutant 3.0. Homology models were generated through Swiss-Model, and structural perturbations were analysed and visualised using PyMOL. All three variants were predicted to be deleterious (SIFT ≤ 0.01; PolyPhen-2 ≥ 0.999) and destabilising, with ΔΔG values of −2.11 kcal/mol (R175H), −1.45 kcal/mol (R248Q), and −1.22 kcal/mol (R273H). Structural modelling revealed notable disruptions in the DNA-binding region, with R175H causing the most pronounced conformational alteration. The integrative in silico pipeline effectively revealed potential pathogenic mechanisms of these TP53 variants. This underscores the role of computational approaches in sustainable cancer diagnostics while reducing reliance on resource-intensiveexperimental studies.Publication Open Access Investigating Nicotine’s Role in In vitro Seed Germination and Seedling Growth of Tomato(Department of Applied Sciences. Faculty of Humanities and Sciences,SLIIT, 2025-10-10) Perera, R.; Priyadarshani, S. V. G. N.Nicotine is an addictive alkaloid found primarily in tobacco plants. Nicotine can be leached out into the soil through discarded tobacco products and can be taken up through the roots of plants and accumulated within them. Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is one of the major crops in the world that also contributes to the Sri Lankan economy. To study the effect of nicotine on plant growth and development, crude nicotine was extracted from dried tobacco leaves using the solvent extraction method. The study was conducted in vitro conditions. Tomato seeds were exposed to 20 μL/L, 50 μL/L, 100 μL/L, and 200 μL/L of crude nicotine (CN) in two types of media (media supplemented with 0.1 mg/L IAA and 2 mg/L BAP, and the other media without hormones). The seed germination rate and the growth and development of the seedlings were observed over a period of 8 weeks. The seed sprouting rate was highest in 100 μL/L CN in the media supplemented with hormones. The seed sprouting rate was highest in 50 μL/L CN in the hormone-free media. In the hormone-supplemented media, CN inhibited the growth of seedlings, especially in the 200 μL/L CN, where even the root growth was severely stunted. In the hormone-free media, some seedlings that were exposed to CN showed nutrient deficiency symptoms, and adventitious roots were observed coming from the leaves of some seedlings. This study provides insight into how nicotine from tobacco and nicotine products can affect seed germination and seedling growth.