Publications and Scientific Communications

2021

• D. Jayasena Kaluarachchi1, Paul M. Campbell, Rajitha Wickremasinghe, Shalindra Ranasinghe, Renu Wickremasinghe, Surangi Yasawardene, Hiromel De Silva, Chandrani Menike, M. C. K. Jayarathne, Subodha Jayathilake, Ayomi Dilhari, Andrew J. McBain& Manjula M. Weerasekera. Distinct microbiome profles and bioflms in Leishmania donovani‑driven cutaneous leishmaniasis wounds. Scientific Reports | (2021) 11:23181. | https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-02388-8
• Guruge Niluka Dilrukshi, Jananie Kottahachchi, Thushari Dissanayake, Manjula Weerasekera, Mudara Peiris, Sohani Medis, Neluka Fernando. In -vitro Biofilm Formation of Vaginal Isolates of Streptococcus agalactiae; Effect of pH and Culture Media. Brazilian Archives of Biology and Technology. Vol.64: e21210151, 2021
• Manjula Manoji Weerasekera, Gayan Kanchana Wijesinghe, Asanga Sampath, Ayomi Dilhari, Thilina Madhumal, Rasika Dilrukshi, Rajitha Willaddara , Sunil Karunathilaka, Chinthika Gunasekara, Neluka Fernando, Lakshman Samaranayake. The genotypes and virulence attributes of C. albicans isolates from oral leukoplakia. Med Oral Patol Oral Cir Bucal. 2021 Nov 1;26 (6):e786-94. doi:10.4317/medoral.24748
• Nadisha S Piyarathne, RMSGK Rasnayake, Randilini Angammana, Pushpika Chandrasekera, Samantha Ramachandra, Manjula Weerasekera, Surangi Yasawardene, Rasha Abu Eid, JA P Jayasinghe, Ekta Gupta Diagnostic salivary biomarkers in oral cancer and oral potentially malignant disorders and their relationships to risk factors-A systematic review. Expert reviews in molecular diagnosis. Published online: 12 Jul 2021https://doi.org/10.1080/14737159.2021.1944106
• Dilhari, M. Weerasekera, C. Gunasekara, S. Pathirage, N. Fernando, D. Weerasekara, A.J. McBain. Biofilm prevalence and microbial characterisation in chronic wounds in a Sri Lankan cohort. Letters to Applied Microbiology First published: 29 June 2021https://doi.org/10.1111/lam.13532
• Thilini Jayasena Kaluarachchi, Rajitha Wickremasinghe, Manjula Weerasekera, Surangi Yasawardene, Andrew J McBain, Bandujith Yapa, Hiromel De Silva, Chandranie Menike, Subodha Jayathilake, Anuradha Munasinghe, Renu Wickremasinghe, Shalindra Ranasinghe. Diagnosing human cutaneous leishmaniasis using fluorescence in situ hybridization. Pathogens and Global Health. 2021: 9^th March https://doi.org/10.1080/20477724.2021.1896265
• Samali Liyanaarachchi, Chayanika Padumadasa, Gayan Priyadarshana, Fransisco C. Robles Hernandez, Ayomi Dilhari, Manjula Weerasekera, Veranja Karunaratne, Zixing Wang, Meiyazhagan Ashokkumar, Nilwala Kottegoda, Pulickel M. Ajayan. Magnetite Functionalized Plumbagin for Therapeutic Applications. ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering., 2021: 9,3. Pages 1361-1372
• Yashodha Weerasinghe, Chinthika Gunasekara, Manjula Weerasekera, Surangi Jayakody, Bimalka Seneviratne, Deepaka Weerasekara, Chaturika Jayasinghe, Navoda Perera, Thilini Gamage, Neluka Fernando. Pyrin Gene Polymorphisms and H. pylori-associated Dyspepsia: A Sri Lankan Study. American Journal of Laboratory Medicine: 2021: 6,1 , pages 1-7
• Buddhika Gayani, Nilwala Kottegoda, Dilru R Ratnaweera, Manjula M Weerasekera, Reduced Crystalline Biofilms Formation on Superhydrophobic Silicone Urinary Catheter Material. ACS Omega April 2021ttps://doi.org/10.1021/acsomega.1c00560
• Chamalki Madhusha, Kumudu Rajapaksha, Imalka Munaweera, Madhavi de Silva, Chandani Perera, Gayan Wijesinghe, Manjula Weerasekera, Dinesh Attygalle∞, Chanaka Sandaruwan, Nilwala Kottegoda. A Novel Green Approach to Synthesize Curcuminoids-Layered Double Hydroxide Nanohybrids; Adroit Biomaterial for Future Anti-microbial Applications. ACS Omega 2021, 6, 14, 9600-9608
• Thilini Nisansala, Manjula Weerasekara, Nilantha Ranasinghe, Chamil Marasinghe, Chandika Gamage, Neluka Fernando, Chinthika Gunasekara Kidney Injury Molecule-1 (KIM-1) and Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein-1 (MCP-1) levels in patients with acute kidney injury due to leptospirosis: A Sri Lankan study BioMed Research International Volume 2021 |Article ID 1752904 | https://doi.org/10.1155/2021/1752904
• Thilini Nisansala, Manjula Weerasekara, Nilantha Ranasinghe, Chamil Marasinghe, Chandika Gamage, Neluka Fernando, Chinthika Gunasekara Contributing role of TNF-α, IL-10, sTNF-αR1 and TNF-α gene polymorphisms in disease severity of leptospirosis Medical Microbiology and Immunology volume 210, pages211-219 (2021)

2020

• Dilhari, A., Pathirage, S., Gunasekara, C., Fernando, N., Weerasekara, D., McBain, A. and Weerasekera, M., 2020. Salmonella enterica serovar Paratyphi A isolated from a hard-to-heal diabetic ulcer: a case report. Journal of Wound Care, 29(1), pp.12-15. 
• Buddhika Gayani, Dinusha Senarathna, Manjula M Weerasekera, Nilwala Kottegoda, Dilru R Ratnaweera. Improving superhydrophobicity of polydimethylsiloxanes using embedding fluorinated polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes cages. SN Applied Sciences
• J Mathanamohan, F Kaleel, H Hyderaly, I Imthiyaz, R Unais, T Nisansala, M Weerasekera, N Fernando, T Liyanage, C Gunasekara.Farmers’ occupational health, perception and practices towards leptospirosis: A cause for concern. Sri Lankan Journal of Infectious Diseases. 2020/4/30

2019

• Thilini Nisansala, Kanchana Bandara, Manjula Weerasekara, Chinthika Gunasekara, Chamil Marasinghe, Chandika Gamage, Neluka Fernando, Nilantha Ranasinghe. Clinical manifestations and disease outcome of leptospirosis during local leptospirosis outbreaks in high endemic districts of Sri Lanka Asian Pacific journal of Tropical Medicine 2019 doi: 10.4103/1995-7645.269904
• Ayomi Dilhari, Sujatha Pathirage, Chinthika Gunasekara, Neluka Fernando, Deepaka Weerasekera, Andrew McBain, Manjula Weerasekera. Case Report: An unusual wound pathogen, Salmonella enterica serovar Paratyphi A isolated from a diabetic chronic ulcer. Journal of Wound Care, 2018. SCIE
• Sampath, A., Weerasekera, M., Dilhari, A., Gunasekara, C., Bulugahapitiya, U., Fernando, N. and Samaranayake, L., 2019. Type 2 diabetes mellitus and oral Candida colonization: Analysis of risk factors in a Sri Lankan cohort. Acta Odontologica Scandinavica, pp.1-9. https://doi.org/10.1080/00016357.2019.1607547.
• Thilini Dilhara Jayasena Kaluarachchi, Manjula Manoji Weerasekera, Andrew J McBain, Shalindra Ranasinghe, Renu Wickremasinghe, Surangi Yasawardene, Nisal Jayanetti, Rajitha Wickremasinghe. Diagnosing Cutaneous leishmaniasis using Fluorescence in Situ Hybridization: the Sri Lankan Perspective. Review. Pathogens and global Health. 2019(1-11). https://doi.org/10.1080/20477724.2019.1650228
• M Peiris, N Fernando, P Jayaweera, M Weerasekera, C Gunasekara. Bacteria mediated silver nanoparticles: comparison as potent antibiofilm agents. Sri Lankan Journal of Infectious Diseases 2019 Vol.9 (1):13-23. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/sljid.v9i1.8227

2018

• Piyumali Sandareka Arachchi, Manjula Manoji Weerasekera, Bimalka Seneviratne, Deepaka Weerasekera, Neluka Fernando, Chinthika Prabhashinie Gunasekara. Imprint cytology: a useful screening test for diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori in resource poor settings. BMC research notes 201811:481. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13104-018-3592-2
• Buddhika Gayani, Ayomi Dilhari, Gayan Kanchana Wijesinghe, Sajeewani Kumarage, Gayani Abayaweera, Sameera R Samarakoon, Inoka C Perera, Nilwala Kottegoda, Manjula M Weerasekera. Effect of natural curcuminoids‐intercalated layered double hydroxide nanohybrid against Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterococcus faecalis: A bactericidal, antibiofilm, and mechanistic study. MicrobiologyOpen. https://doi.org/10.1002/mbo3.723.
• Gayan Wijesinghe, Ayomi Dilhari, Buddhika Gayani, Nilwala Kottegoda, Lakshman Samaranayake, Manjula Weerasekera. Influence of Laboratory Culture Media on In-vitro Growth, Adhesion and Biofilm Formation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. https://doi.org/10.1159/000494757. Medial Principles and Practice. Published online: October 23, 2018.
• Kanchana Bandara, Chinthika Gunasekara, Manjula Weerasekera, Chamil Marasinghe, Nilantha Ranasinghe, Neluka Fernando. Do the Th17 Cells Play a Role in the Pathogenesis of Leptospirosis? Canadian Journal of Infectious Diseases and Medical Microbiology 2018. https://doi.org/10.1155/2018/9704532.
• Piyumali Sandareka Arachchi, Manjula Manoji Weerasekera, Bimalka Senevirathna, Deepaka Weerasekera, Neluka Fernando, Chinthika Prabhashinie Gunasekara. Association of tumor necrosis factor alpha gene polymorphisms with Helicobacter pylori infection in dyspeptic patients in Sri Lanka. Microbiology and immunology. https://doi.org/10.1111/1348-0421.12597.
• GK Wijesinghe, PDTA Jayarathna, TDCP Gunasekara, N Fernando, N Kottegoda, M.M Weerasekera. Antibacterial and anti-candida activity of chlorhexidine gluconate, Triphala and Munamal pothu (bark of Mimusops elengi). Sri Lankan Journal of Infectious Diseases. 8(1), pp.25-31http://doi.org/10.4038/sljid.v8i1.8166
• GGT Nisansala, D Muthusinghe, T Gunasekara, MM Weerasekera, S. S. N. Fernando, K. N. P. Ranasinghe, M. G. C. P. Marasinghe, P. S. Fernando, N. Koizumi, C. D. Gamage, Isolation and characterization of Leptospira interrogans from two patients with leptospirosis in Western Province, Sri Lanka. 19 July 2018, Journal of Medical Microbiology 67: 1249-1252, doi: 10.1099/jmm.0.000800.
• Piyumali Sandareka Arachchi, Chinthika Prabhashinie Gunasekara, Manjula Manoji Weerasekera Bimalka Seneviratne, Deepaka Weerasekera, and Neluka Fernando. Expression of Gastrin -17, pepsinogen 1 and 11 and Helicobacter pylori IgG in a Sri Lankan dyspeptic patient population using gastropanel. World Journal of Phamaceutical Research, 2018. Volume 7, issue 5, 48-61,

2017

• Dilhari, A., Sampath, A., Gunasekara, C,Fernando N, Weerasekara D, Sissons C, McBain A, Weerasekera M. Evaluation of the impact of six different DNA extraction methods for the representation of the microbial community associated with human chronic wound infections using a gel-based DNA profiling method. AMB Express (2017) 7: 179. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13568-017-0477-z
• Weerasekera M.M, Jayarathna T.A., Wijesinghe G.K., Gunasekara C.P., Fernando N,Kottegoda N, Samaranayake L.P, The Effect of Nutritive and Non-Nutritive Sweeteners on the Growth, Adhesion, and Biofilm Formation of Candida albicans and Candida tropicalis. Med Princ Pract 2017;26:554-560 https://doi.org/10.1159/000484718
• Sampath A Weerasekera. M, Dilhari. A, Gunasekara. C, Bulugahapitiya. U, Fernando. N and Samaranayake. L. Comparison of duplex PCR and phenotypic analysis in differentiating Candida dubliniensis from Candida albicans from oral samples. AMB Express20177:141 https://doi.org/10.1186/s13568-017-0435-9
• Gunasekara CP, Sumaiha MHF, Damayanthi MKS, Weerasekera MM, Fernando SSN. Utility of a modified silver staining technique for detection of Leptospira. Sri Lankan Journal of Infectious Diseases 2017 Vol.7 (2):85-91 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/sljid.v7i2.814
• TDCP Gunasekara, NDM Radhika, KK Ragunathan, DPP Gunathilaka, MM Weerasekera, HGSP Hewageegana,L A D M Arawwawala,and SSN Fernando. Determination of Antimicrobial Potential of Five Herbs used in Ayurveda Practices against Candida albicans, Candida parapsilosis and Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Anc Sci Life. 2017 Apr-Jun; 36(4): 187-190. doi: 10.4103/asl.ASL_179_16
• Piyumali Sandareka Arachchi, Neluka Fernando, Manjula Manoji Weerasekera,Bimalka Senevirathna, Deepaka D. Weerasekera, and Chinthika Prabhashinie Gunasekara. Proinflammatory Cytokine IL-17 Shows a Significant Association with Helicobacter pylori Infection and Disease Severity. Gastroenterology Research and Practice. Volume 2017 (2017), Article ID 6265150, 7 pages https://doi.org/10.1155/2017/6265150
• ULNH Senarathna, SSN Fernando,TDCP Gunasekara, MM Weerasekera, HGSP Hewageegana, NDH Arachchi, HD Siriwardena and PM Jayaweera. Enhanced antibacterial activity of TiO2 nanoparticle surface modified with Garcinia zeylanica Chemistry Central Journal 2017, 11:7 SCI DOI: 10.1186/s13065-017-0236-x
• Manjula M Weerasekera, , Chris H Sissons , Lisa Wong , Sally A Anderson , Ann R Holmes , Richard D Cannon. Denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis profiles of bacteria from the saliva of twenty four different individuals form clusters that showed no relationship to the yeasts present Archives of Oral Biology. 2017, 82. 6-10. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.archoralbio.2017.05.014
• K.A. Sampath, M. M. Weerasekera, TDCP. Gunasekera, K.A.A. Dihari, U.Bulugahapitiya, S.S.N. fernando,. A sensitive and a rapid multiplex polymerase chain reaction for the identification of Candida species inconcentrated oral rinse specimens in patients with diabetes Acta Odontologica Scandinavica. (2016). http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/00016357.2016.1265146.
• Abeykoon AI, Gunasekara CP, Weerasekera MM, Fernando N. Awareness of occupational risks, infection control practices and HIV antibody status among funeral industry workers in Sri Lanka. (2017) Vol (1): 28-37. DOI : http://doi.org/10.4038/sljid.v7il.8127 2016
• Ayomi Dilhari, Manjula M. Weerasekera, Anusha Siriwardhana, Oshanthi Maheshika, Chinthika Gunasekera, Sunil kulathilaka, Ajith Nagahawatte, Neluka Fernando, Candida infection in oral leukoplakia; an unperceived public health problem: Acta Odontologica Scandinavica. (2016). August 19: 1-5.
• Kanchana Bandara, Manjula Manoji Weerasekera, Chinthika Gunasekara, Nilantha Ranasinghe, Chamil Marasinghe and Neluka Fernando. Utility of modified Faines criteria in diagnosis of leptospirosis. BMC Infectious Diseases. (2016). 16:446.
• Ajona Megalathan, Sajeewani Kumarage, Ayomi Dilhari, Manjula M. Weerasekera, Siromi Samarasinghe, Nilwala Kottegoda. Natural Curcuminoids Encapsulated in Layered Double Hydroxides – A Novel Antimicrobial Nanohybrid. Chemistry Central Journal (2016).10:35, 1-10
• Manjula M. Weerasekera, Gayan K. Wijesinghe, Thilini A. Jayarathna, Chinthika P. Gunasekara, Neluka Fernando, Nilwala Kottegoda, Lakshman P. Samaranayake. Culture Media Profoundly Affect Candida albicans and Candida tropicalis Growth, Adhesion, and Biofilm Development. Memórias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz. (2016) 1-6 doi: 10.1590/0074-02760160294
• Kanchana Bandara, Chinthika Gunasekara, Manjula Manoji Weerasekera, Nilantha Ranasinghe, Chamil Marasinghe and Neluka Fernando.Comparison of three rapid diagnostic assays for diagnosis of leptospirosis in a resource poor setting World Journal of Pharmaceutical research, (2016) 5(7) 1771-1780
• Thisuri De Silva, Manjula Weerasekera, Dhammika Edirisinghe, Chinthika Gunasekara, Asanga Sampath, Uditha Bulugahapitiya and Neluka Fernando. Patients with diabetes: their perception and practices towards oral health. World Journal of Pharmaceutical research, (2016) 5 (3):149-158
• Manjula Manoji Weerasekera*, Chinthika Gunasekara, Neluka Fernando, Janani Kottachchi, Tishani Methsala Wijesuriya, Achala Bogahawattha, Ramya Pathiraja vovaginal candidiasis in patients presenting with vaginal discharge in a Sri-Lankan setting. J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2016;8(2):1-4
• Piyumali Sandareka Arachchi, Chinthika Prabhashinie Gunasekara, Manjula Manoji Weerasekeraka, Nushka Lahiri Ubhayawarana, Deepaka Weerasekera, Kamani Samarasinghe, Bimalka Senevirathne, Neluka Fernando. Association between selected Human Leukocyte Antigen alleles and Helicobacter pylori infection among dyspeptic patients. International Journal of Enteric Pathogens 2016, 4(4):e37102

2015

• Nushka L Ubhayawardana, Manjula M Weerasekera, Deepaka D Weerasekera, Kamani Samarasinghe, Chinthika P Gunasekera, Neluka Fernando, Detection of Clarithromycin Resistant Helicobacter pylori Strains in a Dyspeptic Patient Population in Sri Lanka by PCR-RFLP. Indian Journal of Medical Microbiology, (2015) 33(3): 374-377
• Jayoda Perera, Manjula Weerasekera and Nilwala Kottegoda. Slow release anti-fungal skin formulations based on citric acid intercalated layered double hydroxides nanohybrids. Chemistry Central Journal 2015, 9:27
• Kanchana Kumari Bandara, Manjula Weerasekera, Chinthika P Gunasekara, Nilantha Ranasinghe, Chamil Marasinghe, Neluka Fernando, Molecular characterization and disease severity of leptospirosis in Sri Lanka. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro: 1-7, 2015
• M. Wijesuriya, J. Kottahachchi, T. D. C. P. Gunasekara, U. Bulugahapitiya, K. N. P. Ranasinghe,S. S. Neluka Fernando, M. M. Weerasekara . Aspergillus species: An emerging pathogen in onychomycosis among diabetics. Indian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism 2015 Vol 9 (6): 811-816
• l. Nushka L Ubhayawardana, Manjula M Weerasekera, Deepaka D Weerasekera, Chinthika P Gunasekera, S.S. Neluka Fernando, Proportion of Helicobacter pylori among dyspeptic patients detected by molecular methods in a Teaching Hospital in Sri Lanka. Int. J. Enteric Pathog, (2015) 3(4): 48-50
• Weerasekera, N. Fernando, T. Welgamage, K. Premarathna, T. Wijesuriya, N. Ranasinghe. Management of patients with clinically suspected pyelonephritis in a resource poor setting in Sri Lanka. Journal of Ceylon College of Physicians (2015) Vol 1&2 (46) 16-18

2014

• M Wijesuriya, M,M. Weerasekera, J. Kottachchi, U. Bulugahapitiya, MSS Disanayaka, S Prathapan, KNP Ranasinghe, TDCP Gunasekera, LD Guruge, A Nagahawatte, SSN Fenando. Proportion of Lower Limb Fungal Foot Infections in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Sri Lanka. Indian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism 2014 Vol 18 (1): P 63-69
• D Weerasekara, DMBT Dissanayake, GIDDAD Athukorala, MM Weerasekera, SSN Fernando. Antibiotic resistance in Helicobacter pylori: Recent insights. Review. Sri Lanka Journal of Infectious Diseases. 2014 Vol.4(1):2-8
• WPSSS Perera, RSR Rajakulasooriya, M.M Weerasekera, J Kottahachchi, TDCP Gunasekera, LBAE Bogahawatta , SSN Fernando. Proportion of superficial fungal infections among members of the cleaning staff at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura. Sri Lanka Journal of Infectious Diseases. 2014 Vol.4(1):38-47

2013

• Manjula M. Weerasekera, Chris H. Sissons, Lisa Wong, Sally Anderson, Ann R. Holmes, Richard D. Cannon. Use of denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis for the identification of mixed oral yeasts in human saliva. Journal of Medical Microbiology, February 2013 62:319-330
• PLR Gomes, S Hewageegana, J Kottahachchi, GIDDAD Athukorala, M.M Weerasekera, TDCP Gunasekera, DMBT Dissanayake, DFD Meedin, SSN Fernando. In vitro study to determine antimicrobial activity of selected Ayurvedic preparations against bacteria and fungi causing superficial skin infections. Journal of Infectious Diseases. February 2013 1:32-39
• L. N. L. Ubhayawardana, J. Kottahachchi, M. M. Weerasekera, I.W. M.P.Wanigasooriya, S. S. N. Fernando,M. De Silva. Residual bioburden in reprocessed side-view endoscopes used for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) Endoscopy International Open 2013; 1: E12-E16
• MHJD Ariyaratne, TDCP Gunasekara, M.M Weerasekara, J Kottahachchi, BP Kudavidanage, SSN Fernando. Knowledge, attitudes and practices of hand hygiene among final year medical and nursing students at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura. Sri Lankan Journal of Infectious Diseases 2013 Vol.3(1);15-25

2012

• D.C.P. Gunasekara, V.G.N.S. Velathnthiri, M.M. Weerasekara, S.S.N. Fernando, M.K. Peelawattage, D. Guruge. “Knowledge, attitudes and practices of Dengue fever among a suburban population in Sri Lanka” Galle Medical journal 2012. vol1791: 10-17.

2011

• Sissons, C., Wong, L., Weerasekera, M. M., Filoche, S. K., van Bekkum, M., & Gellen, L. (Person-specific microbiota responses to sucrose of the plaque microcosm development. Journal of Dental Research, 2011. 90(Spec Iss B), 154983. Retrieved from http://www.dentalresearch.org

2006

• Gomes PRL, Fernando SSN, Weerasekera DD, Velathanthiri N,Rizny MSM, Weerasekera MM, Mahendra R. Aerobic bacteria associated with symptomatic gallstone disease and their susceptibility. Galle Medical Journal 2006 Vol 11(1) 9-13

2003

• Deepal Weerasekera, Sirimali Fernando, Manjula Weerasekera., Susceptibility to rubella among pregnant women and serological evidence of congenital rubella in newborn babies at Colombo South Teaching hospital. Ceylon Medical Journal. 2003, June., Vol 48, No 2, 51- 5

Published Abstracts in Conference Proceedings

2020

• Jayasena Kaluarachchi TD, McBain AJ, Wickremasinghe R, Yasawardene S, Menike C, Jayathilake S, Ranasinghe S, Weerasekera MM. Development of a porcine skin model for the assessment of bacterial biofilms. 29^th Annual Scientific Sessions of the Sri Lanka College of Microbiologists (SLCM) “Facing the challenges of Multidrug Resistance
• T Jayasena Kaluarachchi, M. Weerasekera, R. Wickramasinghe, S. Yasawardene, C. Menike, S. Jayathilake, S. Ranasinghe: flluorescence in situHybridizatiori Ars”y tg Diagnose Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in Sri Lanka. ASM Microbe 2020
• GGT Nisansala, MM Weerasekera, KNP Ranasinghe, CD Gamage, MGCP Marasinghe, SSN Fernando, L Karunanayake, TDCP Gunasekara Microscopic agglutination test in determining leptospirosis seroprevalence in Western Province, Sri Lanka European Congress of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 18 – 21 April 2020, Paris, France
• MM Weerasekera, A Dilhari, T Madhumal, R Dilrukshi, R Willaddara, A Sampath, GK Wijesinghe, C Gunasekara, N Fernando, S KarunathilakaL Samaranayake. Virulence and Genotyping of Candida Albicans Isolated from Oral Leukoplakia. 13^TH INTERNATIONAL RESEARCH CONFERENCE. General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University Ratmalana, Sri Lanka. 15^th -16^th October 2020
• Edirisinghe EAST, Weerasekera MM, Rich A, de Silva H, Hussaini M, de Silva K, Goonasinghe R, Nisansala GGT, Yasawardene SG. Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor – 02 Expresion on oral squamous cell cancer. Sri Lanka Medical Association. 133^th Anniversary International Medical Congress 2020
• Edirisinghe EAST, Weerasekera MM, Rich A, de Silva H, Hussaini M, de Silva K, Goonasinghe R, Nisansala GGT, Yasawardene SG. Level of expression of selected genes in protein kinase RAF-MEK-ERK1/2pathway and its association with oral squamous cell carcinoma. APACPH conference Oral presentation 2020
• Weerasinghe, G.G.Y.H., Gunasekara, T.D.C.P., Weerasekera, M.M., Jayakody, S., Seneviratne, B.S, Weerasekara, D.D, Jayasinghe, C., Perera, M.H.N, Nisansala, G.G.T and Fernando, S.S.N. Does pyrin gene influence Helicobactor pylori-associated inflammatory changes in gastric mucosa? On 29^th Annual Scientific Sessions of Sri Lanka College of Microbiologists; 2020; p 14.

2019

• Jayasena Kaluarachchi TD, Weerasekera MM, Ranasinghe PHKIS, Yasawardene SG, Yapa PDBL, De Silva VH, Menike C, Wickremasinghe R Clinico-demographic characterization of Cutaneous leishmaniasis in patients reporting to two hospitals in Matara and Hambantota districts, Sri Lanka International conference on health sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura 2019, Colombo, Sri Lanka 17-18^th October 2019
• Dilhari KAA, Gunasekara TDCP, Fernando SSN, Weerasekara DD, MacBain AJ, Sissons CH, Weerasekera MM Chronic diabetic wounds: inter individual variation amongst microbial profiles International conference on health sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura 2019, Colombo, Sri Lanka 17-18^th October 2019
• Nisansala GGT, Weerasekera MM, Ranasinghe KNP, Fernando K, Gamage CD, Marasinghe MGCP, Fernando SSN, Gunasekara TDCP Kidney Injury Molecule-1 (KIM-1) in Leptospirosis Acute Kidney Injury International conference on health sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura 2019, Colombo, Sri Lanka 17-18^th October 2019
• Wijesinghe RDGS, Jayasuriya WPDK, Lenaduwe SLA, Gamage GGTN, Dilhari KAA, Bogahawatta LBAE, Gunasekara TDCP, Weerasekara DD, Fernando SSN, Weerasekera MM The impact of matrix metalloproteinases-2 (MMP-2) and metalloproteinase tissue inhibitor-1 (TIMP-1) for wound healing in patients with chronic diabetic wounds International conference on health sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura 2019, Colombo, Sri Lanka 17-18^th October 2019
• Sampath MKA, Weerasekera MM, Gunasekara TDCP, Dilhari KAA, Madhumal T, Dilrukshi R, Willaddara R, Fernando SSN, Karunathilleke S, Samaranayake LP Spectrum of the yeast identification, ABC genotyping and virulence factors of Candida albicans isolated from patients with oral leukoplakia International conference on health sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura 2019, Colombo, Sri Lanka 17-18^th October 2019
• Edirisinghe EAST, Weerasekera MM, Rich A, de Silva H, Hussaini M, de Silva K, Goonasinghe R, Nisansala GGT, Yasawardene SG Serum Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A (VEGF-A) protein levels and VEGF A gene expression in Oral Squamous cell Carcinoma International conference on health sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura 2019, Colombo, Sri Lanka 17-18^th October 2019
• Nisansala GGT, Bandara AWMK, Weerasekera MM, Gunasekara TDCP, Gamage CD, Marasinghe MGCP, Fernando SSN, Ranasinghe KNP Endemic leptospirosis in Sri Lanka: value of clinical presentation, laboratory data and suspected case definition for early diagnosis 11^th European Congress on Tropical Medicine and International Health-2019 Liverpool, UK on September 16 -20, 2019
• Edirisinghe EAST, Weerasekera MM, Rich A, de Silva H, Milne T, Hussaini M, de Silva K, Goonasinghe R, Yasawardene SG – Association of Smoking and level of Expression of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) gene with Oral Squamous cell Carcinoma – At the 19^th Congress of the International Federation of Associations of Anatomists, Excel, London, UK – 9-11 August 2019
• Edirisinghe EAST, Weerasekera MM, Rich A, de Silva H, Milne T Hussaini M de Silva K, Yasawardene SG – Association of Smoking and histological grading in patients diagnosed with Oral Squamous cell carcinoma: a case-control study – At – 132^nd Annual Academic Sessions SLMA – 2019

2018

• A.S.T. Edirisinghe, M.M. Weerasekera, S.G. Yasawardene Expression of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) Gene in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (DOI: http://doi.org/10.4038/slaj.v2i2.16) 2018
• Gayani, K.A.A. Dilhari, G.K. Wijesinghe, S. Kumarage, M.M. Weerasekera and N. Kottegoda. Antibiofilm activity and cytotoxicity of natural curcumin intercalated layered double hyderoxide nanohybrids: A mechanistic study. Proceedings of the Asian symposium on medicinal plants, spices and other natural products XVI-2018, 12-14^th December 2018; Oral Presentation.
• Samali L. Liyanaarachchi, Gayan Priyadarshana, Ayomi Dilhari, Manjula Weerasekera, Veranja Karunarathne, C. Padumadasa, and Nilwala Kottegoda. Plumbagin functionalized magnatic nano particles for potential therapeutic applications. Proceedings of the Asian symposium on medicinal plants, spices and other natural products XVI-2018, 12-14^th December 2018; Oral Presentation.
• A.A. Dilhari, B. Gayani, G.K. Wijesinghe, N. Kottegoda, and M.M. Weerasekera. Non-porous bamboo charcoal as a potential antimicrobial and antibiofilm agents: Activity against Enterococcus faecalis. Proceedings of the Asian symposium on medicinal plants, spices and other natural products XVI-2018, 12-14^th December 2018; Oral Presentation.
• Falon Kalutantirige, Buddhika Gayani, Ayomi Dilhari, Manjula Weerasekera, Nilwala Kottegoda, Dilru Ratnaweera. Preparation and Characterization of Silver Nanoparticle Incorporated Polydimethylsiloxane for Implanted Medical Devices. Bulletin of the American Physical Society. APS March Meeting 2018 Volume 63. Number 1
• Buddhika Gayani, Nilwala Kottegoda, Manjula Weerasekara, Dilru Ratnaweera. Improving Superhydrophobicity of PDMS by Embedding Fluorinated POSS Cages. Bulletin of the American Physical Society. APS March Meeting 2018 Volume 63. Number 1
• Mathanamohan J, Kaleel FF, Hyderaly H, Imthiyaz I, Unais R, Gamage GGTN, Weerasekera MM, Fernando SSN, Liyanage T, Gunasekara TDCP. Are farmers aware of Leptospirosis? A survey among farming community in Colombo district, Proceeding of Annual Scientific Sessions, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura. 2018 held at Waters Edge, Colombo, Sri Lanka 07-09 October 2018. PP 12
• Dilhari KAA, Gunasekara TDCP, Fernando SSN, Weerasekera DD, Pathirage S, McBain AJ, Weerasekera MM. Efficacy of three visualization techniques: Fluorescent In Situ Hybridization, Gram staining and Scanning Electron Microscopy in identifying biofilm involvement of infected chronic wounds. International Conference on Health Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, USJP. October 7-9^th 2018; Oral Presentation.
• Dilhari KAA, Pathirage S, Gunasekara TDCP, Fernando SSN, Weerasekera DD, McBain AJ, Weerasekera MM. Polymicrobial etiology of infected diabetic ulcers. Annual Scientific Sessions of the Sri Lanka College of Microbiologists, Hotel Taj Samudra, Colombo; August 2018; Oral Presentation.
• Sampath M.K.A., Weerasekera M.M, Gunasekara T.D.C.P. Dilhari K.A.A., Bulugahapitiya U, Fernando S.S.N.,The role of ERG 11 gene expression for fluconazole resistance among Candida albicans isolates isolated from Candidaemia patients. Annual Scientific Sessions of the Sri Lanka College of Microbiologists, Hotel Taj Samudra, Colombo; August 2018; Oral Presentation
• Buddhika Gayani, Ayomi Dilhari, Sajeewani Kumarage, Gayan Kanchana Wijesinghe, Nilwala Kottegoda and Manjula Weerasekara. Anti biofilm activity of citrate intercalated layered double hydroxide against selected biofilm forming uropathogens. 6^th Annual Bacteriology and Parasitology Meeting. September 13-14 2017, Singapore
• Dilhari KAA, Gunasekara TDCP, Fernando SSN, Weerasekera DD, Bulugahapitiya U, PAthirage S, Weerasekera MM. Identification of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria in chronic diabetic wounds. Sri Lanka College of Microbiologists. August 2017, Volume 15
• Nisanasala GGT, Gunasekara TDCP, Weerasekera MM, Ranasinghe KNP, Gamage CD, Marasinghe MGCP, Fernando SSN, Chandrasekharan NV. Association of Leptospiraemia and Disease Severity in Leptospirosis. Proceedings of 131^th Anniversary International Medical Congress of the Sri Lanka Medical Association held at the Galadari Hotel, Colombo, Sri Lanka. 27^th – 29^th July 2018
• Gamage GGTN, Gunasekara TDCP, Weerasekera MM, Gamage CD, Ranasinghe KNP, Marasinghe MGCP, Fernando SSN, Chandrasekharan NV Absolute quantification method to detect bacterial load in leptospirosis: EvaGreen chemistry based Quantitative PCR assay. KDU- Mayo clinic International Nephrology, Dialysis, Transplant Medicine and Oncology conference 2018
• Kanchana Bandara, Chinthika Gunasekara, Manjula Weerasekara, Chamil Marasinghe, Nilantha Ranasinghe, Neluka Fernando. Cytokine response in leptospirosis suggests a role for TH 17 involvement. Federation of Immunological societies of Asia-Oceania (FIMSA) congress 2018 held at Mandarin Hotel, Bangkok, Thailand, 10-13 November 2018
• Nisansala GGT, Weerasekera MM, Ranasinghe KNP, Gamage CD, Marasinghe MGCP, Fernando SSN, Gunasekara TDCP A significant association between Tumour Necrosis Factor-alpha expression and the development of severe clinical outcomes in leptospirosis Federation of Immunological societies of Asia-Oceania (FIMSA) congress 2018 held at Mandarin Hotel, Bangkok, Thailand, 10-13 November 2018
• Nisanasala GGT, Bandara AWMK, Weerasekera MM, Ranasinghe KNP, Gamage CD, Marasinghe MGCP, Fernando SSN, Gunasekara TDCP Age as a determining factor for development of severe leptospirosis: A comparision of disease outcome in young, middle- aged and older adults. Ceylon Collage of Physicians 51^st Annual academic sessions held at Galadari Hotel, Colombo, Sri Lanka 12-15 September 2018
• Ubhayawardana DLNL, Nisanasala GGT, Arachchi PS, Rajakaruna K, Wanigasekera DK, Gunasekara D, Senevirathne MBS, Weerasekera D, Weerasekera MM, Fernando SSN, Gunasekara TDCP Clinicopathologic features of patients with gastric carcinoma and status of Helicobacter pylori infection. Ceylon Collage of Physicians 51^st Annual academic sessions held at Galadari Hotel, Colombo, Sri Lanka 12-15 September 2018
• Nisansala GGT, Muthusinghe D, Gunasekara TDCP, Weerasekera MM, Ranasinghe KNP, Marasinghe MGCP, Fernando SSN, Gamage CD Isolation and characterization of Leptospira interrogans from clinically suspected leptospirosis patients from selected hospitals in Western province. International Health conference, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura 2018 held at Waters Edge, Colombo, Sri Lanka 07-09 October 2018
• Sampath M.K.A., Weerasekera M.M, Gunasekara T.D.C.P. Dilhari K.A.A., Bulugahapitiya U, Fernando S.S.N., Identification accuracy of oral Candida species from patients with diabetes by phenotypic and molecular methods International Health conference, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura 2018 held at Waters Edge, Colombo, Sri Lanka 07-09 October 2018
• Liyanage HLRP, Senevirathne GLPM, Siriwardene MA, Peiris MMK, Weerasekera MM, Fernando SSN, KudavidNge BP, Hewageegana HGSF, Gunasekera TDCP. Formulation of an oral rinse containing Garcenia zeylanica aqueous extract and determination of its efficacy against Staphylocuccus aureus, Klebseilla pneumonia and Acinetobacter baumannii. International Health conference, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura 2018 held at Waters Edge, Colombo, Sri Lanka 07-09 October 2018
• Liyanage, G.Y., Weerasekara M.M and Manage. P.M. (2018) Penicillin and tetracycline resistance genes as emerging environmental contaminant in the hospital waste water effluent and aquaculture effluent in Sri Lanka, International Conference on Health Sciences, pg 65
• Liyanage, G.Y., Manage. P.M. and Weerasekara M.M. (2018) Screening and quantification of the bla TEM and tet M resistence genes in the environmental samples in Sri Lanka. Proceeding of South Asian Biotechnology Conference, 88
• Piyumali Sandareka Arachchi, Manjula Manoji Weerasekera, Bimalka Seneviratne, Deepaka Weerasekera, Neluka Fernando, Chinthika Prabhashinie Gunasekara. Imprint cytology: a supportive diagnsotic method for Helicobacter pylori in dyspeptic patients. International Health conference, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura 2018 held at Waters Edge, Colombo, Sri Lanka 07-09 October 2018
• GK Wijesinghe, KAA Dilhari, GDB Gayani, S Kumarage, N. Kottegoda, M.M Weerasekera. Effect of laboratory culture media, citrate encapsulated and curcumin encapsulated layered double hydroxides on in vitro Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm growth. 10^th International research conference, 3-4^th August 2017. General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University,
• Edirisinghe EAST, Weerasekera MM, Rich A, de Silva H, Hussaini M, de Silva K, Goonasinghe R, Yasawardene SG -Expression of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor gene and its association with oral squamous cell carcinoma – Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura 2018 held at Waters Edge, Colombo, Sri Lanka 07-09 October 2018. oral presentation
• Ragutharan YP, Weerasekera MM, Ekanayake S. Potential of Barringtonia asiatica seed kernel extracts as antifungal agents. The Tri annual publication of the Institute of Chemistry Ceylon. May 2018 Volume 35, No 2

2017

• G K Wijesighe, P D T A Jayarathna, T D C P Gunasekera, N Kottegoda, S S N Fernando, M M Weerasekera. Influence of culture medium on in-vitro biofilm formation by Candida species. Proceedings of Annual Scientific Sessions of Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka
• G K Wijesighe, B Gayani, K A A Dilhari, S Kumarage, L P Samaranayake, N Kottegoda, M M Weerasekera. Potential Antibacterial and Antibiofilm Activity of Curcumin Encapsulated Layered Double Hydroxide against S. aureus and E. faecalis. Proceedings of University of Peradeniya, International Research session, 24^th November 2017, volume 21.
• Edirisinghe EAST, Weerasekera MM, Rich A, de Silva H, Hussaini M, de Silva K, Goonasinghe R, Yasawardene SG. Preliminary study of the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in oral cancer patients attending the National Cancer Institute Maharagama. Sri Lanka Medical Association 130^th Anniversary International Medical Congress 2017. PP160
• Bandara KWMKK ,Weerasekera MM, Gunasekara TDCP, Hapugoda MD, Ranasinghe, KNP, Marasinghe MGCP and Fernando SSN. Modified Faines criteria: A useful diagnositic tool in resource poor settings. 10^th International Leptospirosis society conference 2017. Nov 27^th – 1^st Dec 2017. Palmerston North, New Zealand
• Marasinghe MGCP, Bandara KWMKK ,Weerasekera MM, Gunasekara TDCP, Hapugoda MD, Ranasinghe, KNP, and Fernando SSN. Predictors of disease severity of leptospirosis on admission – A Sri Lankan study. 10^th International Leptospirosis society conference 2017. Nov 27^th – 1^st Dec 2017. Palmerston North, New Zealand
• U L N H Senarathna, S S N Fernando, T D C P Gunasekara, M M Weerasekera, W D S A Wickrama, M K R Perera, N D H Arachchi, P M Jayaweera. TiO2 21 nm nanoparticles as a photocatalytic antimicrobial agent against Escherichia coli, Candida albicans and Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus: A comparison. Proceedings of Annual Scientific Sessions of Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka, Scientific Sessions 2016 7-8^th April
• Senevirathne MAL, Anuradha UK, Peiris MMK, Hewageegana HGSP, Arawwala LDAM, Siriwardhene MA, Dabare PRL, Weerasekera MM, Fernando SSN, Gunasekara TDCP, Formulation of a Garcinia zeylanica herbal aqueous cream as a potential antiseptic and determination of the antimicrobial activity in vitro, Proceedings of the Scientific sessions 24^th -25^th May 2017, FMS, USJP. PP33
• Edirisinghe EAST, Weerasekera MM, Rich A, de Silva H, Hussaini M, de Silva K, Goonasinghe R, Yasawardene SG – “Expression of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) in oral cancer patients” -National Health Research Symposium (NHRS), 4^th-5^th December 2017 at the BMICH. oral presentation
• Dilhari KAA, Pathirage S, Gunasekera TDCP, Fernando SSN, Weerasekera DD, Bulugahapitiya U, Weersekera MM. Salmonella Paratyphi A as an unusual pathogen isolated from an infected diabetic wound. National Health Research Symposium (NHRS), 4^th -5^th December 2017 at the BMICH. PP 30
• Dilhari KAA, Gunasekara TDCP, Fernando SSN, Weerasekera DD, Bulugahapitiya U, Pathirage S, Weerasekera MM. Identification of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria in chronic diabetic wounds. Annual Scientific Sessions of the Sri Lanka College of Microbiologists, Sri Lanka Foundation, Colombo 07; 31^st August & 1^st September 2017; Poster Presentation
• Arachchi AMPS, Weerasekera MM, Fernando SSN, Weerasekera D, Senevirathna MBS, Gunasekara TDCP. Dietary patterns and Behavioural risk factors in Helicobacter pylori infection in a Sri Lankan dyspeptic patient population. Proceedings of the Scientific sessions 24^th -25^th May 2017, FMS, USJP.
• Wijesinghe GK, Dilhari KAA, Buddika G, Gunasekera TDCP, Fernando SSN, Kottegoda N, Samaranayake LP, Weersekera MM. Impact of routine laboratory culture media of in vitro biofilm formation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Stapylococcus aureus and Enterococcus fecalis. Proceedings of the Scientific sessions 24^th -25^th May 2017, FMS, USJP. OP 09
• Dilhari KAA, Gunasekera TDCP, Fernando SSN, Weerasekera DD, Bulugahapitiya U, Pathirage S, Sissons CH, McBain AJ, Weersekera MM. Development and validation of a reference marker for identification of aerobic and anerobic bacteria associated with diabetes chronic wound ulcers using PCR denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis. Proceedings of the Scientific sessions 24^th -25^th May 2017, FMS, USJP.OP 08
• Gamage GGTN, Bandara AWMK, Marasinghe MGCP, Weersekera MM, Fernando SSN, Gunasekera TDCP. Optimization of a real time PCR for quantification of Leptospira bacterial loads in patients using SYBR green based real time PCR Proceedings of the Scientific sessions 24^th -25^th May 2017, FMS, USJP.PP 34
• Nuskiya MKF, Sumaiya MAF, Fernando SSN, Weerasekera MM, Gunasekara TDCP. Assessment of bacterial contamination of Sri Lankan currency notes. Proceedings of the Scientific sessions 24^th -25^th May 2017, FMS, USJP.PP 21
• Sampath M.K.A., Gunasekara T.D.C.P, Fernando S.S.N, Dilhari K.A.A, Bulugahapitiya U, Weerasekera M.M. Molecular identification of candida dubliniensis in patients with type 2 diabetes for the first time Sri Lanka. SLMA sessions, 2017.
• Sampath M.K.A., Gunasekara T.D.C.P. Dilhari K.A.A. , Bulugahapitiya U. Fernando S.S.N., Weerasekera M.M. Identification of colonized oral candida species in patients with type 11 diabetes using PCR- restriction fragment length polymorphism. Sri Lankan Society for Microbiology (SSM), 6^th Annual conference and scientific sessions 2017 Vol 5 OP 16.
• Dilhari K.A.A., Gunasekara T.D.C.P., Fernando S.S.N., Weerasekera D.D., Bulugahapitiya U., Pathirage S., Kottegoda N., McBain A.J., Weerasekera M.M. Use of a simple gram stain method bench marked with scanning electron microscopy to identify biofilm involvement in chronic wound infections. SLMA sessions, 2017.
• Edirisooriyaarchchi PS, Hansini PAPA, Peiris MMK, Weerasekera MM, Fernando SSN, Kudavidanage BP, Jayasekara S, Halala C, Gunasekara TDCP. Virulence factors and biofilm formation among acinetobacter species isolated from different clinical specimens. National Health Research Symposium (NHRS), 4^th -5^th December 2017 at the BMICH. oral presentation
• Ragutharan YP, Weerasekera MM, Ekanayake S. antibacterial activity of selected Barringtonia asiatica seed kernel fractions against bacteria.Sri Lanka Association for the Advancement of Science, Proceedings of the 73^rd Annual Sessions- 2017
• Dilhari, KAA, Gunasekara, TDCP, Sampath, MKA, Fernando SS N, Weerasekara DD, Sissons C, McBain AJ, Weerasekera M M. Comparison of six different DNA extraction methods for Polymerase chain reaction based denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (PCR-DGGE). College of Medical Science, Sri Lanka Annual Academic Sessions -2017 November 20^th 2017
• Arachchi PS, GAmage TN, Edirisooriya Arachchi, Weerasekera MM, Senevirathna B, Weerasekera D, Fernando N, Gunasekara TDCP. GAstropanel Assay: A non invasive diagnositic method for diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori infection and disease severity. College of Medical Science, Sri Lanka Annual Academic Sessions -2017 November 20^th 2017

2016

• Dilhari KAA, Gunasekera TDCP, Fernando SSN, Weerasekera DD, Bulugahapitiya U, Pathirage S, Sissons CH, McBain AJ, Weerasekera MM. Chronic Wounds in Diabetes: Molecular profiling of bacterial community and biofilm architecture. Proceeding of 49^th Annual Academic Sessions. September 22-24^th 2016; Colombo, Sri Lanka. Oral Presentation.
• Ubhayawardana DLNL, Weerasekera MM, Gunasekara TDCP, Samarasekera K, Weerasekera DD, Fernando SSN. Helicobacter pylori infection: Correlation to disease severity, Clarithromycin resistance in a Sri Lankan setting. The abstract has been accepted for an oral presentation at the “17^th International Congress on Infectious Diseases” Hyderabad, India from March 2 to 5, 2016. Oral presentation
• Wijesinghe GK. Jayarathna TA, Gunasekara CP, Fernando N, Kottegoda N, Weerasekera MM. Invitro biofilm formation of Candida species: Impact of different sugars, its concentrations and effect of two ayurvedic preparations. Proceedings of the Global Research and Development services 12^th International conference on biotechnology, Bio Informatics, Bio Medical Sciences and Stem cell applications on 9^th and 10^th December 2016 at Linton University College, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
• K.A. Sampath, M. M. Weerasekera, TDCP. Gunasekera, K.A.A. Dihari, U.Bulugahapitiya, S.S.N. fernando,. Oral candidiasis in patients with type 2 diabetes: comparison of a novel multiplex PCR and chrom agar in identification. “17^th International Congress on Infectious Diseases” Hyderabad, India from March 2 to 5, 2016.poster presentation
• Dilhari KAA, Gunasekara TDCP, Siriwardhana SJAP, Maheshika LO, Karunathilaka AHTS, Fernando SSN, Weerasekera MM. Candida Infection in Oral Leukoplakia: Site of infection, etiology and effect of smoking, betel chewing and alcohol consumption. Proceedings of the Annual Academic sessions, Faculty of Medical Sciences, USJP, poster presentation 2016. April 7-8
• Wijesighe GK, Jayarathna PDTA, Gunasekera TDCP, Kottegoda N, Fernando SSN, Weerasekera MM. Influence of culture medium on in-vitro biofilm formation by Candida species. Annual Academic sessions, Faculty of Medical Sciences, USJP, oral presentation (OP 2) 2016. April 6-7
• Bandara KWMKK ,Weerasekera MM, Fernando SSN, Ranasinghe, KNP, Marasinghe MGCP, Gunasekara TDCP, Serum cytokines: A potential biomarker in leptospirosis? 49^th Proceedings of 49^th Annual academic session, Ceylon College of Physician, 22^nd to 24^th September 2016
• Sumaiha MHF, Damayanthi MKS, Weerasekera MM, Fernando SSN, Gunasekera TDCP. “Evaluation of a simple and rapid microscopy technique for detection of leptospira.” Proceedings of the Annual Scientific sessions 2016, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura in Collaboration with Sri Jayewardenepura General Hospital, poster presentation 2016. April 7-8.
• Karunanayake IU, Premathilake NR, Weerasekera MM, Fernando SSN, Pathiraja R, Gunasekara TDCP. Are we satisfy with what we know about Human Papilloma virus (HPV) and HPV vaccine. Proceedings of the Annual Scientific sessions 2016, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura in Collaboration with Sri Jayewardenepura General Hospital, poster presentation 2016. April 7-8
• Premathilake NR, Karunanayake IU, Weerasekera MM, Fernando SSN, Pathiraja R, Gunasekara TDCP. Perceptions and practices on Human Papilloma virus (HPV) infection and HPV vaccine among women attending gynocology clinic and antenatal clinic at the Colombo South Teaching Hospital. Sri Lanka Medical Association 129^th Anniversary International Medical Congress 2016
• Senarathna ULNH, Fernando SSN, Gunasekara TDCP, Weerasekera MM, Wickrama WDSA, Perera MKR, Arachchi NDH, Jayaweera PM. TiO2 21 nm nanoparticles as a photocatalytic antimicrobial agent against E. coli, Candida albicans and Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus: a comparison. Proceedings of the Annual Scientific sessions 2016, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura in Collaboration with Sri Jayewardenepura General Hospital, Oral presentation (OP 5) 2016. April 7-8
• Arachchi AMPS, Weerasekera MM, Fernando SSN, Ubayawardana DLNL, Weerasekara D, Samarasinghe K, Senevirathna MBS, Gunasekara TDCP. Association of selected HLA DQA1*0102, HLA-DQA1* 0103 and HLA-DQB1*0301 with the presence of H. pylori infection and disease severity among dyspeptic patients. Poster presentation (PP 059) Proceedings of the Sri Lanka Medical Association 129^th Anniversary International Medical Congress 2016. 24^th to 27^th July 2016 (Page 184-185)
• Jayarathna PDTA, Wijesighe GK, Weerasekera MM, Gunasekera TDCP, Fernando SSN, Kottegoda N. Effect of natural sugars and an artificial sweetner on Biofilm formation of Candida species. Oral presentation (OPO38) Proceedings of the Sri Lanka Medical Association 129^th Anniversary International Medical Congress 2016. 24^th to 27^th July 2016. (Page 124-125)
• Jayarathna PDTA, Wijesighe GK, Kottegoda, Gunasekera TDCP, Fernando SSN, Samaranayaka LP, Weerasekera MM. Antibioofilm effect of Ayurvedic preparations: Tripala Churna and aqueous extract of Mimusopselengi bark. poster presentation (pp25) Proceedings of 49^th Annual academic session, Ceylon College of Physician, 22^nd to 24^th September 2016
• Sampath MAK, Gunasekara C, Fernando N, Bulugahapitiya U, Weerasekera M. Proportion of patients with type 2 diabetes who are at risk of developing oral Candida infection in a Sri Lankan setting: a molecular based identification. Poster presentation (PP06) Proceedings of the Endocrine congress 2016 held by Sri Lanka College of Endocrinologists in collaboration with South Asian Federation of Endocrine societies. 12-14^th August 2016.
• Arachchi MPS, Weerasekera MM, Fernando SSN, Ubayawardana DLNL, Samarasinghe K, Gunasekara TDCP Association of Helicobacter pylori infection and virulence factors with selected Human Leucocyte Antigen DQA1 and DQB1 alleles among dyspeptic patients. Oral presentation at the 7^th International Conference on Biotechnology, Bio Informatics, Bio Medical Sciences and Stem Cell Applications organized by the Global Research and Development Services at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore on 11^th and 12^th November 2016.
• Raguparan V, Madushani LHPM, Weerasekera MM, Kudavidanage BP, Kalubowila D, Hewageegana HGSP, Fernando SSN, Gunasekara TDCP. Antimicrobial activity of selected herbal and chemical disinfectants against Acinetobacter species causing ventilator associated pneumonia. Poster presentation at the 5^th Annual Conference and Scientific sessions of the Sri Lankan Society for Microbiology (SSM) at Oak Ray Regency Hotel Kandy 21^st October 2016.
• V Raguparan, LHPM Madushani, M.M. Weerasekera, BP Kudavidanage, D Kalubowila, HGSP Hewageegana , S.S.N. Fernando, T.D.C.P. Gunasekara Bacterial biofilm inhibition by selected herbal and chemical disinfectants against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Acinetobacter baumannii Proceedings of the ICAUST
• MMK Peiris, ULNH Senarathna, TDCP Gunasekara, M.M. Weerasekara, NDH Arachchi, PM Jayaweera and SSN Fernando Use of green silver nano-particles as an antimicrobial agent – A preliminary study. 5^th Annual Conference & Scientific Sessions Sri Lankan Society for Microbiology (SSM) 21^st 2016 vol 4
• Dilrukshi KPR, Willaddara RP, Dilhari KAA, Gunasekera TDCP, KArunathilaka HTS, Nagahawatte A, Fernando SSN, Weerasekera MM, In vitro evaluation of virulence factors of Candida albicans and its association with selected host factors in oral leukoplakia. Sri Lankan Society for Microbiology (SSM) 5^th Annual conference and scientific sessions of the Sri Lankan Society for Microbiology 2016

2015

• Ajona Megalathan, Manjula M. Weerasekera, Ayomi Dilhara, Nilwala Kottedoda. Natural Turmeric encapsulated layered double hydroxides as anti- microbial nanohybrids. Oral presentation. Proceedings of 3^rd International conference and Exhibition on Pharmacognosy, phytochemistry and Natural products. October 26- 28^th Hyderabad, India
• MM Weerasekera, TM Wijesooriya,T. D. C. P. Gunasekara ,U. Bulugahapitiya, J. Kottahachchi, S. S. N. Fernando. Superficial fungal foot infections: Aetiology and risk factors among diabetic patients in Sri Lanka. Global Research and Development Services (GRDS). International Conference on Advances in Healthcare & Life Sciences (ICAHL), 5^th and 6^th January, 2015, Bangkok, Thailand, 2015
• M Wijesuriya, J.Kottachchi TDCP Gunasekera, U. Bulugahapitiya KNP Ranasinghe SSN Fenando M,M. Weerasekera, Risk of Onychomycosis in diabetic patients in Colombo South Teaching Hospital. ESSL 2015, 7^th Annual Academic Sessions, October 1-4 poster presentation 28
• AI Abeykoon, M.M. Weerasekera, SSN Fernado, TDCP Gunasekara. HBV and HIV seropositivity, knowledge, attitudes, practices on disease transmission among funeral industry workers in selected districts of Sri Lanka. International conference on multidisciplinary approach (ICMA) proceedings. 2015, 11^th -12^th September, poster presentation
• MKA Sampath, TDCP Gunasekara, J.Kottachchi , KAA Dilhari, U Bulugahapitiya, SSN Fernado, MM Weerasekera. Use of a multiplex PCR to identify Candida species in concentrated oral rinse samples of patients with diabetes. International conference on multidisciplinary approach (ICMA) proceedings. 2015, 11^th -12^th September, oral presentation
• TDCP Gunasekara, A.W.M.K. Bandara, M.M. Weerasekara, K.N.P. Ranasinghe, C. Marasinghe, S.S.N. Fernando. Molecular epidemiology, serology and clinical presentation of leptospirosis in Sri Lanka. Global Research and Development Services (GRDS). International Conference on Advances in Healthcare & Life Sciences (ICAHL), 5^th and 6^th January, 2015, Bangkok, Thailand
• SSN Fernando, N Ubayawardene, MM Weerasekera, TDCP Gunasekara, D. Athukorale, D. Weerasekara. Helicobacter pylori, risk factors and resistance to clarithromycin among dyspeptic patients in Sri Lanka. Global Research and Development Services (GRDS). International Conference on Advances in Healthcare & Life Sciences (ICAHL), 5^th and 6^th January, 2015, Bangkok, Thailand
• W.M.K Bandara, M.M.Weerasekera, T.D.C.P Gunasekera, K.N.P Ranasinghe, M.G.C.P Marasinghe, N. Dikmadugoda, M.P.K Jayalath, A. Gunapala, S.S.N. Fernando. Molecular Epidemiology of leptospirosis in Western and Southern Province in Sri Lanka. Annual Academic sessions, Faculty of Medical Sciences, USJP, oral presentation 2015
• A.A. Dilhari, S.J.A.P. Siriwardhana, L.O. Maheshika, T.D.C.P. Gunasekera, A.H.T.S. Karunathilaka, S.S.N. Fernando, M.M. Weerasekera. A Preliminary study on Oral Leukoplakia: Candida Associated Leukoplakia and risk factors. Annual Academic sessions, Faculty of Medical Sciences, USJP poster presentation 2015
• Abeykoon AI, Gunasekara TDCP, Weerasekara MM, Fernando SSN. Knowledge attitudes and practices on infection control among funeral industry workers in selected provinces in Sri Lanka. Proceedings of the Scientific sessions, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri jayawardenapura Sri Lanka. Volume 2 PP 13. Held on 2^nd April 2015
• T. N. De Silva, R.M.S. D. Edirisinghe, T.D.C.P Gunasekera U. Bulugahapitiya, S.S.N Fernando, M.M Weerasekera. Diabetic patients; their knowledge, practices and attitudes regarding oral health. Annual Academic sessions, Faculty of Medical Sciences, USJP poster presentation 2015
• Dilrukshi KS, Marapana MBMRDT, Bandara MGSD, Weerasekara MM, Kottahachchi J. Evaluation of the association between use of medical devises and duration of hospitalization with health care associated infections in a tertiary care hospital. PP13: Sri Lanka College of Microbiologists, Volume 13, 1: August 2015
• Radhika NDM, Gunathilake DPP, Ragunathan K, Gunasekara TDCP, Weerasekera MM, Fernando SSN, Arawwawala LADM, Hewageegaga HGSP . Antifungal activities of selected plant extracts against Candida albicans and Candida parapsilosis. Engineering Social Transformation Through Research and Development, Sri Lanka Foundation Institute, Annual Research Symposium 8-9 June 2015
• Ubhayawardana DLNL, Fernando SSN, Weerasekera D, Kishokumar A, Weerasekera MM, Gunasekara TDCP, Samarasinghe K. Histological findings in a Helicobacter pylori infected dyspeptic patient population. Annual Academic sessions, Faculty of Medical Sciences, USJP poster presentation 2015

2014

• Basnayake BMPI, Kottahachchi J, De Silva M, Weerasekera MM, Wanigasooriya IWMP, Athukorale GIDDAD, Disanayaka DMBT, Nalaka ABMJ, Bogahawatta LBAE, Fernando SSN, Bacterial flora and their antibiotic sensitivity patterns in plastic biliary stents removed from patients through endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Oral presentation at Annual Sessions, Sri Lanka College of Microbiologists 2014, Vol.12:1
• Kottahachchi J, Fernando SSN, Wijesuriya TM, Pathiraja RP, Gunasekera TDCP,Kumarasinghe H, NAgahawatte A, LokuliyanaRM, Bogahawatta A, Weerasekera MM, Proprotion of vulvovaginal candidiasis and antifungal susceptibility pattern of the isolates from patients attending gynaecology clinic at Colombo South Teaching Hospital (CSTH).Poster presentation at Annual Sessions, Sri Lanka College of Microbiologists 2014, Vol.12:1
• DLNL Ubhayawardana, M.M Weerasekera, DD Weerasekera, TDCP Gunasekera, A Kishokumar, IWMP Wanigasooriya, A Bogahawaththa, K. Samarasinghe, SSN Fernando. Is clarithromycin resistant Helicobacter pylori a problem in Sri Lanka? 127^th Anniversary International Medical congress of the Sri Lanka Medical Association. 15^th -18^th July 2014
• Kanchana Bandara, Manjula Weerasekara, Chinthika Gunasekara, Nilantha Ranasinghe, Chamil Marasinghe, Nilanka Perera, Anura Gunapala, Tharanga Liyanarachchi, Priyantha Jayalath, Neluka Fernando. Leptospirosis: Clinical profile and outcome in critical care settings in Sri Lanka. Annual Scientific Sessions of the Faculty of critical care. 21 June 2014.
• Kanchana Bandara, Chinthika Gunasekara, Manjula Weerasekara, Nilantha Ranasinghe, Menaka Hapugoda, Chamil Marasinghe, Nilanka Perera, Anura Gunapala, Nandana Dickmadugoda, Priyantha Jayalath, F.G. Siwagnanam, Neluka Fernando. Evaluation of Three Commercial Rapid Immunochromatographic Kits for the Presumptive Identification of Leptospirosis in Sri Lanka. Poster presentation at International Conference on Multidisciplinary Approaches. 13 – 14 August 2014
• B.M.R.D.T Marapana, K.S. Dilrukshi, M.G.S.D Bandara, J. Kottahachchi, M.M. Weerasekara. Proportion of three types of health care associated infections among hospitalized patients in a tertiary care hospital in Sri Lanka. iPURSE, Proceedings, Peradeniya University International Research Sessions. Volume 18.4^th and 5^th July 2014.
• Weerasekera MM, RAnasinghe WS, Welgamage T, Mudalige S, Wannigamage R, Abesiriwardena N, RAnasinghe KNP. Etiology and antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of community acquired urinary tract infection (UTI) in Tangalle. Journal of Uva Clinical Society, Volume 9, 2014

2013

• AWMKK Bandara, MGCP Marasinghe, MM Weerasekera, TDCP Gunasekara, Pavitra MAT, KNP Ranasinghe, MPK Jayalath, N Dickmadugoda, M Hapugoda, A Gunapala, FG Siwagnanam, SSN Fernando. Expediency of clinical and basic laboratory data to early diagnsosi of leptospirosis: A descriptive preliminary study. Second Annual Conference and Scientific Sessions of SSM-2013 Vol 1:16
• Ranasinghe K. N. P., Jayasinghe Y.A.R.P., Welgamage T., Sudeera G.D.P., Premarathna W.A.K. Prathapan S, Weerasekera M. M, Fernando N.“Pyelonephritis at Base Hospital Tangalle: etiology, antimicrobial susceptibility pattern and clinical response to antibiotics- A preliminary study” 46^th Annual Academic Sessions. Ceylon College of Physician, 12^th -14^th September 2013
• AWMKK Bandara, MGCP Marasinghe, MM Weerasekera, TDCP Gunasekara, KNP Ranasinghe, MPK Jayalath, N Dickmadugoda, M Hapugoda, A Gunapala, FG Siwagnanam, SSN Fernando. Diagnosis of Leptospirosis: – A Preliminary Study. 46^th Annual Academic Sessions. Ceylon College of Physician, 12^th -14^th September 2013
• DLNL Ubhayawardana, J Kottachichi, MM Weerasekera, IWMP Wanigasooriya, KWN Damayanthi, SSN Fernando, Mohan De Silva. Effectiveness of the manual reprocessing of side -view endoscopes used for Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangio-panceatography (ERCP) 42^nd Annual Academic Sessions of the college of surgeons of Sri Lanka, 2013. Volume 31, S1:p 30
• DLNL Ubhayawardana, J Kottachichi, MM Weerasekera, IWMP Wanigasooriya, KWN Damayanthi, SSN Fernando, Mohan De Silva. Effectiveness of the manual reprocessing of side -view endoscopes used for Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangio-panceatography (ERCP) The Bulletin of the Sri Lanka College of Microbiologists. Volume 11, issue 1 July 2013
• M Wijesuriya, M,M. Weerasekera, J.Kottachchi, U. Bulugahapitiya, MSS Disanayaka, S Prathapan, KNP Ranasinghe, TDCP Gunasekera, LD Guruge, A Nagahawatte, SSN Fenando. Proportion of Fungal Foot Infections in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Sri Lanka. The Bulletin of the Sri Lanka College of Microbiologists. Volume 11, issue 1 July 2013
• Hewageegna HGSP, Arawwala LADM, Fernando PIPK, Kottahachchi J, Atukorala GIDAD, Weerasekara MM, Gunasekara TDCP, Dissanayake DMBT, Basnayaka P, Dhammarathana I, Ariyawansa HAS, Tissera MHA, Fernando SSN. Standardization and evaluation of antibacterial activity of Vipadikaharagritataila. International conference of Unani, Ayurveda, Siddha and Traditional Medicine on Natural Solution for Health challenges, December 2013.
• Hewageegna HGSP, Arawwala LADM, Kottahachchi J, Atukorala GIDAD, Weerasekara MM, Gunasekara TDCP, Dissanayake DMBT, Basnayaka P, Dhammarathana I, Ariyawansa HAS, Tissera MHA, Fernando SSN. Berberis ceylanica Schneider: Quantification of Berberine content and antimicrobial activity. International conference of Unani, Ayurveda, Siddha and Traditional Medicine on Natural Solution for Health challenges, December 2013.

2012

• S.R Rajakulasooriya, W.P.S.S.S Perera, M.M Weerasekera, J Kottahachchi, S.S.N Fernando, L.B.A.E Bogahawatta. Etiology of superficial fungal infections among cleaning staff at University of Sri Jayewardenepura. Annual Scientific sessions. Faculty of Medical Sciences, 2012

2011

• Sissons, L. Wong, M.M Weerasekera, S. Filoche, M. Van Bekkum, L. Gellen. Person specific microbiota responses to sucrose of the plaque microorganism development. International dental conference IDAR/Melbourn, 25^th -28^th September 2011.
• Buddika V, Ranasnghe JR, Weerasekera MM, Ranasinghe KNP. Eitiology and antibiotic susceptibility pattern of uropathogens causing urinary tract infections at provential general hospital Baddulla, A pilot study. Journal of Uva Clinical Scoiety Vol 6 November 2011.

2008

• Wong, M.M. Weerasekera, S.K. Filoche, M.J. Coleman, C.H. Sissons. Variability of host-specific responses of dental plaque microbial species to sucrose. NZMS Conference 2008 “Germs and Genomes in the Garden City”, Christchurch, New Zealand, November 2008
• M Weerasekera, R.D. cannon, S.A. Anderson, L. Wong, C.H. Sissons., Application of PCR-DGGE to identify yeast populations in oral ecosystems. Conference paper, The 12^th international symposium on microbial ecology, Cairns, Australia, 17^th – 23 August 2008.
• Wong, M.M Weerasekera, S.K. Filoshe, M.J. Coleman, C.H. Sissons., Between- person individuality of the ecological response of in vitro dental plaque microbial species to sucrose pulsed three-times daily. Conference paper, The 12^th international symposium on microbial ecology, Cairns, Australia, 17^th – 23 August 2008.

2007

• M Weerasekera, R.D. cannon, S.A. Anderson, L. Wong, C.H. Sissons, PCR- DGGE analysis of oral yeasts., Wellington Health and Biomedical Research Society, 69^th Scientific Meeting, New Investigators Presentations. Wellington, New Zealand, 12^th November 2007.
• M Weerasekera, L. Wong, S.A. Anderson, A.R. Holmes, R. D. Cannon, C.H. Sissons, Analysis of yeasts present in saliva by PCR-DGGE. Joint NZMS-NZSBMB conference 2007, from Molecules to complex systems. 27^th – 30^th November 2007, Wellington. New Zealand.

2006

• V Buddika, J.R Ranasinghe., M.M Weerasekera, K.N.P Ranasinghe. Aetiology and antibiotic susceptibility patterns of uropathogens causing urinary tract infections at Provincial General Hospital, Badulla, – A Pilot Study. Journal of Uva Clinical Society. 2011. 6 : 36

2005

• PRL Gomes, SSN Fernando, DD Weerasekera, N Velathanthiri, MSM Rizny, M.M Weerasekera, R. Mahendra. Aerobic bacteria associated with symptomatic gallstone disease and their susceptibility. The bulletin of College of Microbiologist August 2005 3(1):15

2004

• D.C.P Gunasekara, P Perera, M Weerasekera, P.L.R Gomes, S.S.N Fernando. Septicemia. Analysis of causative organism and antimicrobial susceptibility in a tertiary care hospital. Sri Lanka College of Microbiologists March 2004.
• S.R. Rajapakshe Mallikahewa, S. Fernando, Ranjith Kumar Weerasekera, Manjula Weerasekera, U. T. Vitarana., Susceptibility to varicella in an immunocompromised population. Sri Lanka College of microbiologists 2004

2000

• M. Weerasekera, Sirimali Fernando, L.P Samaranayaka, M.T. M.Jeffry., Phenotypic and genotypic heterogenoty of oral Candida albicans isolates in healthy Sri Lankans of varying age. Annual Academic sessions Sri Lanka College of microbiologists, June 2000.
• M. Weerasekera, Sirimali Fernando, L.P Samaranayaka, M.T. M.Jeffry., Characterization of genetically and phenotypically district subgroups of Candida albicans strains isolated from oral cavities of premature babies. Annual Academic sessions Sri Lanka Collage of microbiologists, June 2000

Awards

• Presidential awards 2015
• NRC Merit award 2016
• NRC merit award 2013
• SUSRED award 2017 for a PhD and a MPhil
• SUSRED award 2018 (selected for this award)
• Research awards 2017 – University of Sri Jayewardenepura – In recognition of contribution of full articles published in an Index refereed journal – 3rd October 2018
• Research awards 2016 – University of Sri Jayewardenepura – In recognition of contribution of full articles published in an Index refereed journal
• Research awards 2016 – University of Sri Jayewardenepura – In recognition of contribution holding external research grants for the year 2015
• Research awards 2015 – University of Sri Jayewardenepura – In recognition of contribution of full articles published in an Index refereed journal – 29th September 2016
• Research awards 2014 – University of Sri Jayewardenepura – In recognition of contribution of full articles published in an Index refereed journal – 18th November 2015
• NSF Travelling Fellowship 2017 – International center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) organized course, “Bioinformatics: Computer Methods in Molecular and Systems Biology, ICGEB, Trieste, Italy, 26th June -30th June 2017
• Awarded the best poster presentation – Scientific sessions 2015, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura. Awarded the best poster presentation for “Knowledge attitudes and practices on infection control among funeral industry workers in selected provinces in Sri Lanka.” Abeykoon AI, Gunasekara TDCP, Weerasekera MM, Fernando SSN.
• Third Prize in oral presentation – The Sri Lanka College of Microbiologists 22nd Annual academic sessions 2013. Third Prize in oral presentation for the paper titled “Proportion of fungal foot infections in patients with type 2 diabetes at a tertiary care hospital.” Wijesuriya TM, Weerasekera MM, Kottahachchi J, Dissanayake MSS, Prathapan S, Gunasekara TDCP, Nagahawatte A, Guruge LD, Bulugahapitiya U, Fernando SSN.
• Runner up- Poster presentation -Scientific sessions 2012, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayawardenepura. “Eetiology of superficial fungal infections among cleaning staff at University of Sri Jayewardenepura.” Rajakulasooriya RSR, Perera WPSSS, Weerasekera MM, Kottachchi J, Fernando SSN, Bogahawatte LBAE
• Runner up- Poster presentation -Scientific sessions 2016, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayawardenepura in Collaboration with Sri Jayewardenepura General Hospital. “Evaluation of a simple and rapid microscopy technique for detection of leptospira.” Sumaiha MHF, Damayanthi MKS, Weerasekera MM, Fernando SSN, Gunasekera TDCP