Determinants of net sale average (NSA) of orthodox black tea factories in high elevation, Sri Lanka

Secondary data proved that high grown teas are losing their position as the highest Elevation Average (EA) recorded over the years. As EA is determined by the factory Net Sale Average (NSA), factors affecting NSA are responsible for fluctuations of EA. This study attempts to identify those factors which affect NSA of orthodox black tea factories in high elevation. Data were collected for tea factories representing agro climatic regions in high elevation. Fixed effect panel data regression analysis was employed for the econometric analysis. Results revealed that NSA is determined by main grade percentage, own leaf quantity, best leaf standard, quality certification of factories and number of brokers involved in the selling process. However, Udu Pussellawa sub region shows negative relationship for own leaf and best leaf standard whereas Uva sub region shows negative relationship only for the main grade percentage. The overall results indicate that high elevation factory NSA is determined by the quality of the raw material and final output.The Kelaniya Journal of Management, Vol. 3(1); 2014: 63-85</p

Diabetic patients; their knowledge, practices and attitudes regarding oral health

Objectives: To assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding oral health among patients attending the diabetic clinic at Colombo South Teaching HospitalMethods: A descriptive cross-sectional study among 427 patients attending the diabetic clinic was carried out using an interviewer administered pretested questionnaire.Results: Of the 427 patients, majority (74%) were females above 50 years of age. Of the patients 56% recognized an association between diabetes and oral health. Only 15% knew that they were more prone to oral fungal infections due to diabetes though 89% knew that diabetes resulted in delayed wound healing. Oral cancer (72%) was mainly recognized as a complication of poor oral hygiene but majority were unaware of the risk of endocarditis. Regarding attitudes, 98% believed that diabetics should be vigilant regarding their oral hygiene. While 29% believed that a dentist should be visited at least twice a year, only one patient practiced this. A majority (93%) was of the attitude that brushing teeth twice a day is important to maintain good oral hygiene and 92 % claimed to practice this. Overall study population had moderate knowledge (64%) good attitudes (77%) and moderate practices (73%) with regard to their oral health. All patients were willing to receive advice and information regarding oral hygiene or be directed to relevant dental clinics during their diabetic clinic visit.Conclusions: Educating diabetics regarding oral health is a timely need as diabetes is a major health burden in Sri Lanka.