bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of pH and Light Intensity on the Growth of Dunaliella Salina
Authors: Dilshan W.L.T.  , Asanthi H.B.  , Maithreepala R.A.  , Atapaththu K.S.S.  , Costa A.M.K.C.J.  , Suranga D.K.A.I.
Published: February 2024

Dunaliella salina is a unicellular halophilic green alga dominantly found in salt lakes, and high saline ponds in slatterns all over the world. A rigid cell wall is absent in D. salina while the cells are covered by mucous materials that are enclosed by a thin elastic plasma membrane. This species has both environmental and economic validity as they are capable of producing β–carotene during photosynthesis. Synthesis of β–carotene in D. salina is a function of environmental factors, and thus, the present study was designed to study the effect of pH of the medium and light intensity on the growth of D. salina. The Algae sample was collected from a crystalizing pond of Hambantota Saltern, Sri Lanka, and a monoculture was maintained under suitable laboratory conditions. The seawater sample with pH 7.66 was used to prepare a series of pH using sodium carbonate anhydrous. These cultures were exposed to a series of pH (7.66, 8.0, 8.50, and 9.0) at two light intensities (885 lux and 200 lux). All experimental setups were maintained at 25oC with the photoperiod of 12h light and 12h dark. Four replicates of each pH medium were arranged into a 4×4 setup of flasks for each light intensity and the experiment was conducted for four weeks. At the end of the fourth week, the pH level of all flasks ranged from 8.27 to 8.53 due to the self-adjustment of the pH level in the culture medium in parallel to algal growth. The maximum growth was reflected by the highest absorbance of 1.46 at 750 nm. Taken together, our findings revealed that the optimum pH range and light intensity for culturing D. salina is 8.27-8.53 and 885 lux respectively. This study recommends further research on culturing of D. salina for extracting the bioproduct of β -carotene at various light intensity levels.

Keywords: Cell density, β –carotene, Light intensity, Self-adjusted
Effect of Natural IAA Produced by Streptomyces Strain ACM37 on Seed Germination and Seedling Growth
Authors: Gamlath A.G.N.N.A.S.  , Abayathunga T.P.  , Widana Gamage S.M.K.
Published: February 2024

Biofertilizers play an important role in sustainable agriculture by improving soil fertility, crop tolerance and crop productivity. In this context, exploitation of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria with various beneficial properties is challenging. This study aimed to investigate the plant growth promoting activity of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA)-producing actinomycetes strain, Streptomyces ACM37 on the seed germination and seedling growth at early stage. The ACM37 was grown in starch-casein broth for 7 days at 28° C, 80 rpm and supplemented with 50 mg/l L- tryptophan to induce IAA production. After 7 days, IAA concentration in cell-free culture broth was quantified by following the Salkowski's method and it was 50 mg/l. Seed germination and seedling growth of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) and rice (Oryza sativa L.) at different concentrations of IAA were estimated as % seed germination, number of roots, primary root length and length of hypocotyl. Initially, seeds were surface sterilized with 10% (v/v) NaOCl and soaked in 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 mg/l crude IAA preparations for 1 h at 30° C. As controls, seeds were soaked in sterilized distilled water (SDW) and 50 mg/l synthetic IAA. Ten seeds per each treatment with three replicates were placed on 0.8% (w/v) water-agar in Petri plates and incubated in dark at 30° C. The % seed germination of ACM37-IAA-treated cowpea and rice seeds was enhanced at all concentrations compared to SDW and synthetic IAA treatments after 3 days. The highest 100% germination of cowpea was given at 10 mg/l IAA while it was 96.67±3.33% in>30 mg/l IAA in rice. Similarly, there was a significant (P<0.05) increase in primary root length and number of lateral roots in cowpea at 10 mg/l of ACM37-IAA. Overall, ACM37 showed significant plant growth promotion in cowpea at low concentration (10 mg/l) of IAA whereas there was a significant (P<0.05) reduction at high concentrations (>10 mg/l). On the other hand, there was no apparent increase in all growth parameters except seed germination in rice at all concentrations. It appears that high concentrations of ACM37-IAA may be required to promote plant growth in rice. Overall results highlight that plant growth promotion activity of ACM37 varies at different IAA concentrations and different plant species, probably between monocot and dicot species. Therefore, ACM37 has potential application as a plant growth promoting agent in biofertilizers and plant growth inhibiting agent in bioherbicides at certain IAA concentrations.

Keywords: Actinomycetes, Biofertilizer, Bioherbicide, IAA
Removal of Crystal Violet Dye in Textile Wastewater Using Rice Husk Biochar
Authors: Pabasara W.G.A.  , Premadasa A.G.K.E.  , Madushika J.W.A.
Published: February 2024

Crystal Violet Dye (CVD) is a water-soluble, hazardous organic dye that causes adverse health issues and environmental pollution. This dye was mostly added to wastewater by the textile industries. Treatment of CVD-contained wastewater has become a great challenge due to high investment and operating costs and inefficiency in dye removal of conventional methods such as biological degradation and chemical oxidation. So, the main purpose of this study is to investigate the CVD removal ability of Rice Husk Biochar (RHB). The experiment procedure was designed to determine the influence of initial CVD concentration, adsorbent dosage, pH, contact time, and temperature on dye removal. RHB was prepared by pyrolysis process at 700o C for 3h at a constant heating rate of 10o C min-1 in a muffle furnace. Adsorption of CVD by RHB was verified by performing Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy. The concentration of the remaining dye after adsorption studies was calculated using Ultra-Violet visible spectroscopy. According to the results, the dye removal efficiency increased with the RHB amount, but the rate of this increment decreased at higher RHB dosages. The highest dye removal efficiency of 97.33% was recorded at 1.5 g RHB amount. In the effect of initial CVD concentration, the efficiency increased up to 600 mg/l and then decreased and the maximum removal efficiency was 96.77%. pH value has no significant effect on dye removal and the highest efficiency of 97.3 % was recorded at pH 4. Further, as the contact time increased, the dye removal increased until it reached an equilibrium state at 60 minutes with 92.03% efficiency. Moreover, when raising the temperature, the adsorption of CVD by RHB marginally increased. According to the kinetic studies, the experimental data followed pseudo- second-order kinetic models than pseudo-first order. Further, adsorption equilibrium data well fitted both Freundlich and Langmuir isotherm models so that it can be assumed that both monolayer and multilayer adsorption of CVD in RHB surface. Thermodynamic parameters such as Gibbs free energy and enthalpy change were calculated, and all values were recorded as negative implying adsorption was favorable and spontaneous and the process was exothermic. In conclusion, the optimum dye removal was recorded at 350 C and pH 4 with an initial dye concentration of 600 mg/L and adsorbent dosage of 1.5 g. Thus, this study concluded that RHB could be utilized as a cost- effective, eco-friendly, and affordable adsorbent for the removal of CVD from wastewater with over 90% dye removal efficiency.

Keywords: Crystal violet dye, Rice husk biochar, Textile industry, Adsorption
On-water Catalyst-free Synthesis of 3-Alkenyl Oxindoles
Authors: Kumarasinghe K.G.U.R.  , Samaradiwakara D.M.T.A.
Published: February 2024

3-Alkenyl oxindoles are key structural motifs in organic chemistry with a wide range of applications mainly in the pharmaceutical industry, due to excellent biological activities such as anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial, and anticancer properties. With the discovery of the importance of oxindole derivatives in the pharmaceutical industry, demand for sustainable protocols for the synthesis increased as most classical methods have their limitations and flaws. In this study on-water, catalyst-free, atom-economical green approach was developed for the synthesis of 3- alkenyl oxindole derivatives using oxindole and aldehyde as starting materials. The reaction between oxindole and benzaldehyde was conducted on water under catalyst-free conditions. Interestingly, 100% conversion was observed when the reaction was carried out for 24 hours at 100° C. As the next step, the applicability of the developed approach was proven for different aldehydes. Furaldehyde, cinnamaldehyde, and vanillin were used as the aldehydes to synthesize 3- alkenyl oxindole derivatives, and the isolated yields were obtained as 77%, 54%, and 51% respectively. The desired product formation was confirmed by comparing the Rf value of the product with that of the previously synthesized well-characterized compounds; 3- benzylideneindolin-2-one, 3-(furan-3-methylene)indolin-2-one, 3-(3-phenylallylidene)indolin-2- one, and 3-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzylidene)indolin-2-one using Thin Layer Chromatography. Further characterization was done by Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR), Ultraviolet-visible (UVVis), and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopic techniques. In further optimization steps, the reaction was performed using surfactants as the catalyst. By adhering to the green chemistry principles different sources of biosurfactants were used including Acacia concinna pods, Sapindus emarginatus fruit pericarp, Dillenia retusa fruit pericarp, and Trigonella foenumgraecum seeds. In order to compare the effect of biosurfactants, a synthetic surfactant, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) was used as the catalyst. When the reaction was carried out for 21 hours at 100 °C using fruit pericarp of Sapindus emarginatus as the source of biosurfactant, 100% conversion was observed. Using water as the solvent, readily available starting materials, higher yield, and eco-friendliness and catalyst-free conditions suggest the possible use of the developed method for large-scale preparations of 3-alkenyl oxindole derivatives.

Keywords: Green protocol, Oxindole derivatives, Surfactant, On water synthesis, Catalyst-free
State of Surface and Vertical Salinity in Puttalam Lagoon during North-East Monsoon
Authors: Perera H.A.S.D  , Jayathilake R.M.
Published: February 2024

Puttalam Lagoon which covers 226 km2 located in Sri Lanka‘s Northwest coast, plays an important role in aquaculture and lagoon capture fisheries. Kala oya and Mee oya are the major freshwater sources which empties into the Lagoon by eastern bank. Salinity variability is an important environmental variable in lagoon system that has an impact on aquaculture and aquatic resources. During the Northeast monsoon (NEM) in 2021, the spatial and vertical fluctuation of salinity in the lagoon was studied using SBE 19plus V2 CTD profiler. Field measurements show that the vertical salinity stratification in the lagoon was substantial during the study period. The lagoon has a significant spatial variability of salinity, ranging from 15 psu to 26 psu and Kala Oya river mouth has a salinity of 22 psu which impacted by freshwater and sea water circulation. The Salinity stratification in eastern section of the lagoon where the Kala Oya and Mee Oya streamflow reach is observed with surface salinity of 15 psu. During the NEM season, the average discharge of Kala Oya and Mee Oya to the lagoon was 10.8 m3/s and 9.4 m3/s, respectively, with a mean monthly precipitation of 48.89 mm. Fresh water from the Kala and Mee oya rivers flows into the lagoon during the season, while low evaporation and significant rainfall led the salinity to decline during the wet season, influencing the structure and function of lagoon ecosystems. The study reveals that a significant area of the lagoon is covered by the 20-30 psu salinity range, which is more appropriate for brackish water fisheries, particularly for shrimp and prawns during NEM. 

Keywords: Salinity, CTD profiling, Northeast Monsoon, Freshwater
Variation of Geochemical Properties of Soils in Tropical Lowland Rainforests in Sri Lanka
Authors: Bandara H.M.K.S.  , Herath H.M.S.K.  , Samarakoon S.M.T.N.  , Chandrajith R.L.R.  , De Costa W.A.J.M.
Published: February 2024

Tropical lowland rainforests (TLRFs) of Sri Lanka are considered as diverse ecosystems which play a vital role in climate change mitigation. In recent years, increasing deforestation leads to diminishing their potential ecosystem roles. For efficient forest conservation, knowledge of both above- and below-ground characteristics of TLRFs is required. Currently, above-ground information on TLRFs is sufficiently available but the details on the below-ground characteristics are limited. Therefore, this study was carried out to investigate pedo-geochemical properties of lowland rain forests of Kanneliya (KDN) and Pitadeniya, (PTD) in Sri Lanka. Four sampling plots with 1 ha in size (KDN1, KDN2, PTD1 and PTD2) were established, selecting altitudes of 117, 174, 509, and 618 m asl, respectively. Five representative near-surface (up to 25 cm) samples were collected from each plot for the investigation. Soil pH, electrical conductivity (EC), and cation exchange capacity (CEC) were measured while soil organic matter (SOM) content was determined by (i) Walkey-Black (WB) and (ii) Loss on ignition (LI) methods. Data were analysed by ANOVA and means were compared using Duncan‘s test. All measured parameters were significantly different (P<0.05) among the sampling plots. Soil pH and EC values were ranged between 3.43– 3.78 and 0.28–0.44 dS m-1, respectively. The highest CEC was recorded in PTD2 (11.09±3.44 cmol(+)/kg) whereas the lowest was in PTD1 (5.31±1.26 cmol(+)/kg). The highest SOM was recorded in PTD1 (17.71±4.42% in WB, 18.04±3.98% in LI) whereas the lowest was noted in PTD2 (5.81±3.07% in WB, 8.21±2.13% in LI). According to the comparison made between WB and LI methods, LI method recorded higher SOM content. The actual SOM and volatilizable water in hygroscopic mineral fractions might be the reason for the higher values in LI method. All acquired data were compared with standard interpretation data and accordingly, soils of the measured TLRFs are acidic, non-saline and non-reduced with sufficient soil aeration. Even though, TLRF vegetation produce high amount of biomass, soil CEC and SOM contents are low in the study area due to rapid microbial decomposition and absorption of dense vegetation. There was no linear relationship between measured parameters and altitude. Overall, measured soil chemical properties can be considered as ideal indicators of TLRFs conservation and therefore, it needs to be correlated with above-ground properties for understanding the behaviour of TLRFs responding to conservation strategies. 

Keywords: Forest conservation, Soil chemical properties, Soil organic matter content, Tropical lowland rainforest
Comparative Study of Soil Nutrients in Selected Paddy Lands in Wet Zone Treated with Organic and Chemical Fertilizers
Authors: Pemathilaka A.U.S.  , Munasinghe M.L.A.M.S.
Published: February 2024

In Sri Lanka, paddy consumes the most significant part of chemical fertilizers and accounts for approximately 50 percent of the widespread use of chemical fertilizers. With the immediate banning of inorganic fertilizers, there was a huge argument between the government and the farmers about organic farming. Since the soil fertility change takes a long time, the impact of long-term application of the same fertilizer should be assessed. Field experiments were conducted in six selected paddy fields in wet zone considering fertilizer type and rice variety. Total 30 samples from each site were collected and soil initial nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) potassium (K), Organic C, and composition of used fertilizers were analyzed. Nutrient status compared using critical, optimum ranges, and general management practices are discussed. This study revealed that the total N level in all the sites varies near the critical level and is inadequate to produce expected yields. Soil organic C (3.8-6.7%) and N (0.06-0.2%) levels in organic sites were higher than the chemical sites (0.09-0.19N%, 1.4-2.1C%). Phosphorus level is below the critical level (0.9-8.4 mg/kg) in organic sites, and varies from medium to high (7.5-27.0 mg/kg) in chemical sites. The sites using chemical fertilizers showed excessive K (395-480 mg/kg), and organic sites were below the optimum range (82-92 mg/kg). According to the fertilizer analysis, organic fertilizers are rich in organic C (40-90 g/kg), while organic C is absent (0%) in chemical fertilizers. All the other nutrient amounts are very low (N:0.7-19.3 g/kg, P:0.06-0.8 g/kg, K:33.2-15.4 mg/kg) in organic fertilizers, and the composition is unstable. Chemical fertilizers have an exact composition of nutrients and can easily be applied at the particular growth stage of the plant which is beneficial. An external supply of essential soil nutrient through organic or chemical fertilizer sources is required to produce expected yields. Regular and continuous monitoring of soil quality, pre-nutrient assessment of organic fertilizers, site-specific fertilization, and proper agronomic practices are highly recommended. These results will be beneficial in selecting or manufacturing suitable fertilizer type/types for paddy cultivation, including bio-fertilizers. 

Keywords: Organic fertilizers, Status of soil nutrients, Soil fertility, Rice varieties
Impacts of Organic and Non-organic Paddy Farming Practices on Surface Water Quality in Selected Areas
Authors: Fernando N.D.S.M.  , Godakumbura P.I.  , Prashantha M.A.B.  , Cooray A.T.
Published: February 2024

Paddy (Oryza sativa L.) cultivation plays major role in Sri Lanka. Mainly Organic and Non-organic paddy farming methods are conducted. Organic paddy farming method only used organic fertilizers and non-organic paddy farming method used chemical fertilizers which are Urea, Triple Super Phosphates. Therefore, farming practices can be affected to the surface water quality creating various health hazards. The study was conducted from November 2021 to February 2022 (Maha season) to assess the impact of organic and non-organic paddy farming practices on surface water quality in Wallewala, Homagama, and Kottawa paddy agricultural lands by analyzing pH, EC, TDS, DO, BOD, COD, total hardness, nitrate, nitrite, phosphate, sulfate, chloride, potassium, zinc, and chromium. Wallewala is newly created environment sensitive agricultural land in less human influence. Both organic and non-organic paddy lands are in that area. Kottawa paddy lands are cultivated only chemical fertilizers and the Homagama paddy lands are cultivated by organic fertilizers. Randomly, six and nine surface water samples were collected from paddy irrigated systems in Wallewala area represent to organic and non-organic paddy lands respectively. Randomly, five and six surface water samples were collected from paddy irrigated systems in Homagama Organic, and Kottawa non-organic paddy lands respectively. The water from both paddy systems, min pH (5.25±0.04), max EC (315±1.00 μScm-1 ), min DO (6.13±0.06 mgL-1), max BOD5 (2.82±0.06 mgL-1), max sulfate (205.76 ppm), max chloride (45.91 ppm), max K (5.63 ppm), and max Zn (0.12 ppm) were found, while the study revealed that all the water quality parameters were not exceeded the reported ambient water quality standards for inland waters in Sri Lanka for irrigation purposes. Further EC, TDS, COD, total hardness, sulfates, chloride, potassium, and zinc were greater in non-organic paddy lands in both Wallewala and Kottawa areas. According to the obtained data, there was no water pollution from the paddy cultivation in respective areas. But these results indicate that water quality parameters vary with the utilized fertilizers. 

Keywords: Paddy cultivation, Water quality, Organic paddy farming, Non-organic
A Quality Review of EIA: A Comparative Study of State-Funded and International Aid Agency-funded Development Projects in Sri Lanka
Authors: Vinasithamby R  , Vimaladhas N.  , Vimaladhas V.
Published: February 2024

A development project's environmental impact assessment (EIA) is a tool for mitigating the effects on the environment and promoting sustainable development. EIA is an expensive and professionally engaged process that involves the public. Many countries around the world have long-standing laws in place connected to this topic, as well as solid knowledge and experience. One persistent argument against the efficacy of EIA in developing nations is that the procedure and quality differ from country to country. The International Aid Agencies (IAA) have their guidelines for protecting the environment while following local environmental assessment standards for any financing requirements. IAA involvement in the EIA process might significantly affect how well- written EIA reports are. To evaluate the assessment quality, six EIA reports from state-financed development projects (SL-EIAs) and another six development projects EIAs funded by the IAA (IAA-EIAs) in Sri Lanka were randomly chosen. LeeCooley review package (1990) was used to evaluate the Environmental Impact Statements (EIS) of each EIA. In this investigation, it was discovered that IAA-EIAs and SL-EIAs had a significant difference in overall quality. IAA-EIAs show values that range from highly satisfactory to satisfactory and each share 50 percent, whereas SL-EIAs indicate 83 percent satisfactory and 17 percent of borderline quality. In comparison to the SL-EIAs, all four review areas of the IAA-EIAs performed notably well. While the SL-EIA shows good to borderline quality (0.66-0.72), all evaluated IAA-EIA reports reveal highly satisfactory to satisfactory (0.81-0.93) quality. The engagement of IAA in the environmental assessment has a considerable impact to improve assessment quality in comparison to the only domestic assessment. Finding the weak area in the SL-EIA process and adhering to the IAA standards would elevate the standard of the report.

Keywords: EIA quality, Review, International Aid Agency, Development projects
A Review on Pharmacological Activities of Eclipta alba (Keekirindiya-Bhringarāja)
Authors: Munasinghe G.M.A.L.P.  , Madushani G.W.H.  , Molligoda S.P.
Published: February 2024

This review article contributes to clarifying the pharmacological properties of Eclipta alba (Bhringarāja) which is traditionally used in medicaments in so many countries such as Sri Lanka, India, China, Brazil, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Nepal, Malaysia, Myanmar, Japan, Korea, Hong Kong, Pakistan, etc. Pharmaceutical products containing Eclipta alba have been used for different kinds of diseases and Bhringarāja had been mentioned in different types of prescriptions; especially in Samhitha Grantha. The main objective of this literature review is a discussion about pharmacological activities of Eclipta alba (Bhringarāja) and to provide an integrated, synthesized overview of the current state of knowledge on Eclipta alba (Bhringarāja) with Ayurvedic and traditional medical knowledge. The systemic literature review was carried out to gather authentic information on Eclipta alba (Bhringarāja). Relevant data for this study were gathered from Ayurveda textbooks, research papers, peer-reviewed indexed scientific journals, and authentic websites. Eclipta alba (Bhringarāja) is a small branched perennial herb, found in sandy and clay soils (waterlogged areas). Research article shows that Eclipta alba (Bhringarāja) has numerous medicinal properties such as Hepatoprotective, Hair growthpromoting, Antidiabetic, Analgesic, Anti-Inflammatory, Neuropharmacological, Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, Cardiovascular, Immunomodulatory, Anti-epilepsy, Anti-venom, Anticancer, Antiulcer, Anthelmintic and Anti- hyperlipedic properties. The reason for these properties is stated to be its major chemical compounds such as wedelolactone, dimethyl wedeloctone, ecliptal, etc. I found through this research that most of the therapeutic actions such as Śōthara, Vedanāsthāpana, Vraṇaśodhana, Vraṇarōpaṇa, Savarṇakaraṇa, Chakshushya, Keśavardhana, Keśaranjana, etc. have been mentioned in Samhitha Grantha and Ayurveda pharmacopeia. Those actions have been confirmed by modern laboratory tests, clinical trials, and animal trials. 

Keywords: Eclipta alba, Bhringarāja, Ayurveda, Pharmacological activities.
Pollen Morphological Studies on Selected Species of Family Dilleniaceae in Sri Lanka
Authors: Abeyrathne U.K.G.  , Munasinghe M.L.A.M.S.
Published: February 2024

Dilleniaceae is an angiosperm family including 11 genera and about 500 known species with a pantropical distribution extending into Australia. In Sri Lanka, four genera and 16 species including one introduced species have been reported in the family Dilleniaceae. Most of these species are endemic or native, while Schumacheria is an endemic genus. Morphological characters of the pollen grains are a significant taxonomic identification tool in the systematics of higher plants. The aim of the study is to provide detailed palynological descriptions of selected pollen species and maintain pollen reference collection. Four plant species, Dillenia retusa, Dillenia suffruticosa, Dillenia triquetra, and Schumacheria castaneifolia of the family Dilleniaceae (Genus Dillenia and Schumacheria) were collected from different localities in the wet zone including Nugegoda and Baduraliya during the period from September 2022 to November 2022. The voucher specimens were authenticated using revised handbook to the flora of Ceylon and deposited in the Herbarium of the Department of Botany, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka. Fresh flowers or dried flowers were taken to collect pollen. Pollen grains were acetolysed and observed under Optika microscope (BG-Italy) after mounting on a clean glass slide using glycerin jelly with Basic fuchsin. Thirty pollen grains were used to determine the pollen size for each selected species. All measurements were taken within seven days of pollen preparation using OptikalSview (3.9.0.604) software. The shape, size, and surface features of pollen grains, as well as the length and width of the pollen and apertures and Polar/Equatorial ratios, were observed. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed using Minitab 18 software for the quantitative variables related to measurements of pollen obtained with light microscope. The ranges of variation were 15-22 μm for polar axis, 16-26 μm for equatorial axis, 0.8-3.5 μm for colpus width and 5.0-12.5 μm for colpus length. The pollen grains of all the species are monad, isopolar, and radially symmetrical. Pollen grains were identified as suboblate to oblate spheroidal, small or medium-sized, tricolpate (Dillenia spp.) or tetra-colpate (Schumacheria castaneifolia), with the surface ornamentation punctate to reticulate. The longest and widest pollen grains were reported in Dillenia suffruticosa (22.0×26.4 μm), while the smallest were observed in Schumacheria castaneifolia (15.2×16.4 μm). Based on the length of the longest spore axis, except D. suffruticosa all other species are categorized into small-size pollen. According to the results, the distinction between species can be determined using palynological features such as shape, size, and aperture type. 

Keywords: Pollen morphology, Dilleniaceae, Palynology, Reference collection
Effect of Expired Yoghurt Powder as a Soil Amendment on Growth, Yield and Chlorophyll
Authors: Thushari K.L.N.A.  , Amarasinghe S.R.  , Narayana N.M.N.K.
Published: February 2024

The disposal of expired dairy products that are rich in organic carbon and nitrogen is one of the major challenges faced by the dairy industry and causes significant economic, environmental and health issues. Recycling of expired dairy products including yoghurt is an ideal solution to protect the environment and to utilize them in a sustainable manner. Therefore, the present study was carried out to find out the performance of organic soil amendment prepared from expired yoghurt powder (EYP) on growth, yield and chlorophyll content of Radish (Raphanus sativus L.). A pot experiment was set up according to Completely Randomized Design with four treatments {soil without fertilizer (T1), soil with 1% EYP+157 mg K2O/pot (T2), soil with 2% EYP+157 mg K2O/pot (T3), soil with inorganic fertilizer (T4)} with five replicates. In T4 treatment, a mixture of inorganic fertilizers as a basal dressing (before seed sowing) and top dressing (after 3 weeks) was applied at a rate of 177 mg N, 346 mg P2O5 and 157 mg K2O/pot and 177 mg N, 157 mg K2O/pot, respectively according to the Department of Agriculture (DOA) recommendation. The root diameter (cm), root volume (cm3), root length (cm), total leaf area (cm2), number of leaves, shoot fresh weight (g), root fresh weight (g) and chlorophyll content (relative green index) were measured. Data were analyzed using Minitab (version 17) and SAS (version 9.1.3) software packages. One way ANOVA was conducted to examine the differences between treatments followed by mean separation using Duncan‘s multiple range test. Root diameter, root length, root volume, root fresh weight (48.6±0.88 g and 32.30±1.83 g in T4 and T2, respectively) were significantly higher (p<0.05) in inorganic fertilizer (T4) and 1% EYP (T2) treatments than other treatments. The leaf area and chlorophyll content were significantly higher (p<0.05) in all the treatments compared to soil without fertilizer treatment (T1). The highest fresh shoot weight (77.4±9.37 g) was obtained in inorganic fertilizer (T4) treatment showing significant difference (p<0.05) than 2% EYP (T3) and soil without fertilizer (T1) treatments. According to the results, 1% EYP (T2) treatment showed similar growth and yield performance with inorganic fertilizer (T4) and is recommended as a soil amendment for radish. However, the fungal attacks and pest attraction to EYP limit its application as a soil amendment and further studies are suggested to overcome the limitations. 

Keywords: Expired yoghurt powder, Growth and yield parameters, Organic soil amendment, Raphanus sativus L.
Therapeutic Uses of Mee Tree (Madhuca longifolia)
Authors: Risla M.H.F.  , Muthalib A.M.
Published: February 2024

In the past, our ancestors maintained a close relationship with the environment. They knew the value of many plants. One tree that our ancestors preserved is the Mee tree. Madhuca longifolia belonging to the family Sapotaceae, is one of those multipurpose forest tree species that provide an answer for the food, fodder and fuel. It is widely distributed in the South Asian countries, Especially in Sri Lanka. Mee tree is a large deciduous tree growing widely under dry tropical and sub-tropical climatic conditions. The tree has religious and aesthetic value in the tribal culture. The trees with best girth in forest are often Mee trees as it is protected and cared by forest dwellers. Aim of the study is to identify the therapeutic uses of this plant in Sri Lanka. Ancient classical texts were used to collect data on Mee tree especially, Medicinal plants (Indigenous and Exotic) used in Ceylon. Articles were filtered through journals, magazines and newspapers. Databases such as Google scholar, Springer and Agroforestry were used to search journal articles. The journal articles from 2010-2022 were considered as eligible for this review. Search terms such as Madhuca longifolia, Mee tree, Medicinal uses were used to search journal articles. The final summary was formulated after a thorough reading of all above materials. As the results, the plant contains Vitamins, Ethylcinnamate, Amyrin acetates, Hexacosanol, Linoleic acid, Palmitic acid and many more chemical constituents. The Mee tree has analgesic, diuretic, tonic, aphrodisiac, astringent and demulcent properties with various parts of the plant. The parts are used in certain treatments in Ayurvedic medicine. The flowers, leaves, bark, roots, and seeds of the Mee tree are used to prepare medicines for rheumatism, bronchitis, headache, skin diseases, and worm infestations. The study was concluded as, this tree was so close and familiar to the lives of the people. This tree has many benefits for mankind, and many people have been interested in preserving it. However, due to the deforestation that has taken place in the country in the last few decades, the existence of Mee trees has been severely threatened. Today, Mee tree is a scarce resource in Sri Lanka. People should aware about protecting the plant for future generation. 

Keywords: Madhuca longifolia, Mee tree, Medicinal uses, Deforestation
Exploring Digital Technology Usage among English Language Instructors at a Saudi Higher Education Institution and Validating a Hierarchical Structure of Usage Based on the SAMR Model
Authors: Buledi Majid Hussain , Tunku Badariah Tunku Ahmad
Published: February 2024

This study examined the usage of digital technology among English language instructors at a public university in Saudi Arabia as perceived by their students and tested the notion that such usage could be ranked in hierarchical levels. The SAMR model, developed by Puentedura (2014), was employed to categorise and rank technology usage into four incremental levels, i.e., Substitution, Augmentation, Modification and Redefinition, with Substitution being the most rudimentary level and Redefinition being the highest and most sophisticated usage. A 32-item questionnaire rated on a 5-point Likert scale measuring how frequently English language instructors used technology at the four SAMR levels was developed by the authors, content-validated by six instructional technology experts and pilot-tested with 63 students prior to its use in the actual survey. Data were gathered from a survey sample of 535 Saudi learners studying English in their foundation year programme and analysed using three statistical procedures, i.e., descriptive statistics, exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). The descriptive results pointed to instructors' technology usage revolving around the Substitution level of the SAMR model, indicating a predominant tendency among instructors to merely replace traditional teaching tools with digital alternatives. The EFA procedure (via Principal Axis Factoring with Promax rotation) produced conflicting results. While the extracted factor structure supported only two levels of usage, the scree plot suggested the existence of four usage levels consistent with the SAMR model. This was addressed by the subsequent CFA procedure performed on the data that confirmed the four SAMR levels, with the fit statistics indicating a good-fitting technology usage model; χ2(98) = 268.73; χ2/df = 2.74; CFI = .94; RMSEA = .078, CI: .067, .090. Sixteen out of the 32 technology usage items were successfully extracted and confirmed as the indicators SAMR’s four levels. The results corroborated previous findings that technology utilisation among English instructors is pervasive but rudimentary. They also supported the theoretical notion that technology usage can be categorised, ranked, and understood in hierarchical levels as purported by the SAMR model.
Exploring Indonesian Primary School Teachers’ Emotional Intelligence: Comparisons by Gender and Teaching Experience
Authors: Windasari  , Nur Rohmah Yuliati , Karya Denis Fidita
Published: February 2024

This study examined the level of emotional intelligence among private primary school teachers in selected Indonesian schools and differences in teachers’ EI by gender and teaching experience. Using a census survey, the study obtained emotional intelligence data from 107 Indonesian teachers—65 female and 42 male—from 19 private primary schools in Surabaya. The survey was administered using a Google Form containing 25 items on emotional intelligence adapted from Goleman (2011). The emotional intelligence items were divided into five subscales measuring self-awareness (four items), self-regulation (four items), motivation (six items), empathy (five items), and relationship management (six items). The EI data were analyzed using descriptive statistics to establish teachers’ EI levels and the Wilcoxon signed-rank test to determine teacher differences in EI by gender and teaching experience. The results indicated that private primary school teachers in Surabaya reported high levels of EI in all five of its dimensions. Both male and female teachers demonstrated a consistent distribution of emotional intelligence scores and no statistically significant differences by gender and teaching experience were found among the sample in terms of emotional intelligence.
Demands and needs of adolescents and young adults under oncological treatment
Authors: Souza Michelle Carvalho de , Campos Débora Rebollo de , Boldrini Erica
Published: February 2024

Objetivo Descrever as evidências científicas no tocante às demandas e às necessidades de adolescentes e adultos jovens em tratamento oncológico. Métodos Revisão integrativa da literatura cuja estratégia de busca foi aplicada nas bases PubMed®, The Cochrane Library e Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde. Os critérios de inclusão foram: artigos disponíveis na íntegra on-line relacionados às demandas e às necessidades de adolescentes e/ou adultos jovens durante o tratamento oncológico em inglês, português e espanhol publicados entre 1° de janeiro de 2010 a 31 de agosto de 2020. Resultados Obtiveram-se 1.397 artigos. Pela leitura de seus títulos e resumos, foram excluídos 1.332. Do restante, 2 não foram encontrados na íntegra e 40 foram excluídos após leitura na íntegra, totalizando amostra final de 23 artigos. Conclusão A presente revisão evidenciou a necessidade de aprimorar estratégias de comunicação dos profissionais de saúde e a maneira como as informações são fornecidas aos adolescentes e adultos jovens, pois é imprescindível que seja de forma individualizada e adaptada à idade. A equipe de saúde deve se atentar aos assuntos pertinentes a cada fase de desenvolvimento dos pacientes, como sexualidade e drogas, e abordá-los sempre que possível. É preciso ouvir e respeitar as opiniões dos adolescentes e adultos jovens, considerando-as durante cada fase de seu tratamento.
Cluster formation as a sustainable rural development tool in Ukraine
Authors: Novak Tamara , Мelnyk Viktoriia
Published: February 2024

The difficult situation in Ukraine in general and in the agricultural sector in particular, caused by the war: destruction of settlements with infrastructure, property damage to business entities, impossibility of conducting economic activity in the temporarily occupied territories and territories where active hostilities are taking place, relocation of business, massive displacement of the population to more peaceful regions – necessitates a rethinking of pre-war approaches to the development of rural areas. This study focuses on one of the most promising tools – clusters. Since proper legal regulation is crucial for the effective development of clustering processes, the purpose of the study is to analyse the state of legal support for clustering in rural areas, considering the requirements of smart specialisation, to identify the main problems and to develop proposals for their solution. This goal was achieved through the use of several methods of scientific knowledge: dialectical (philosophical), analysis, formal legal, hermeneutical, abstract logical, and historical and legal. As a result, the author formulates a definition of the concept of “cluster”, which enshrines its features (voluntary association of entities with the status of entrepreneurs, sectoral or intersectoral nature). The purpose of the cluster activity is substantiated: creation of products and/or provision of services, promotion of sustainable development of rural areas. It is established that clusters combining agricultural production with other, in particular non-agricultural, activities are promising for rural areas. The necessity to consider the provisions of smart specialisation of regions in the formation of clusters is proved. Proposals have been developed regarding the formation of the legal framework for the formation and functioning of clusters by supplementing the normative acts of economic legislation with provisions on the form of organisation of cluster formations; defining clustering as a promising task in the national and agrariansectoral strategic planning documents; basic directions of state support for the creation and functioning of clusters in the field of agriculture/in rural areas. The results obtained are of theoretical importance for the development of the science of agrarian and commercial law. The conclusions of the work are also of practical value since they can be considered in the content of the improved legislation on clusters and smart specialisation of regions
Analysis and Comparison of 3D Printed Soft Pneumatic Actuator Configurations for Swaying Lateral Motion of Planar Objects
Authors: Ritonga Syahirul Alim , Sidauruk Ifran N. Sah Putra , Herianto  , Sitanggang Adriyan Christofer
Published: February 2024

Soft pneumatic actuators (SPAs) offer unique possibilities in robotics and automation due to their compliance and versatility. Unlike conventional actuators that can move either revolute or prismatic, SPAs can produce complex motions, especially when configured in combinations. This paper systematically investigated the performance of four distinct SPA configurations (Types 1-4) concerning the task of moving a planar square object and swaying it laterally to the right and left. These configurations are analyzed for their ability to achieve desired movements and orientations. Type 4, involving two SPAs, emerges as the most effective configuration, successfully navigating the challenges posed by the desired task. In contrast, Type 2, consisting of four SPAs, encounters difficulties in executing the task attributed to increased inertia, which was similar as type 3. Types 1, while not precisely meeting the primary task, reveal distinctive movements - left-right motion without orientation change. This study contributes valuable insights into the complex dynamics of SPAs, offering considerations for optimal design and performance. The outcomes could be developed in the future in soft actuator applications, especially those involving configurations based on specific needs.
KUALITAS FISIK WAFER TANAMAN JAGUNG DAN GAMAL DENGAN VARIASI KOMPOSISI DAN LAMA WAKTU PENGEPRESAN
Authors: Indriani Nyimas Popi , Arsadianti Nisa Sakiila , Nur.Azizah Yang Halimah , Dwicahyani Vita , Islami Romi Zamhir , Mansyur Mansyur
Published: February 2024

This research aimed to evaluate wafers from corn plant and Gamal compositions and the pressing times on wafer quality, namely water content, specific gravity, density, and wafer absorption capacity. The research was experimental using a completely randomized design and factorial pattern (2×3) with 6 replications. Factor A was the composition of corn and Gamal. A1; Corn (70%) and Gamal (30%) and A2; Corn (80%) and Gamal (20%). Factor B was the pressing time, B1 to B3 for 15, 20, and 25 minutes pressing times respectively. Physical quality variabls were analyzed through ANOVA also Duncan's advanced test. The water content and specific gravity were not different (P>0.05), while density and water absorption were different (P<0.05). There was an interaction between composition and pressing time. Water content ranged from 10.48-12.77% and average specific gravity ranged from 1.00-1.18% g/ml. The density of A1B3 (0.565 g/cm3) had a water absorption capacity of 86.835%. The best result was corn plants (70%) and Gamal (30%) and pressing time for 25 minutes.
STRATEGI BERTAHAN HIDUP PETANI PERKOTAAN DI KOTA GORONTALO
Authors: Syamsir Syamsir , Abidin Zainal , Irmawati Irmawati , Mamonto Neisi Tri Andila , Larekeng Fadila Julianti
Published: February 2024

Gorontalo City is the capital city of Gorontalo Province; however, in some places in Gorontalo City, there are still scattered agricultural lands and most of the agricultural land is surrounded by buildings and housing. The purpose of this study was to determine the survival strategy of urban farmers in Gorontalo City and analyze income based on the cost of living for farmers and their families. Secondary data in this study were obtained from the Agricultural Extension Center (BPP) and the Badan Pusat Statistik (BPS) or relevant sources in the form of data on the number of farmers in Gorontalo City. This study uses a mixed-methods approach, namely quantitative and qualitative approaches. Primary data were obtained from interviews with research informants, with a limit on the number of informants to as many as 30 farmers. The primary data collection instrument was divided into two types: questionnaire A for all informants and questionnaire B for 10 informant farmers (with the criteria of separate land from other farmers' land) through the in-depth interview method. A qualitative approach with interactive analysis of the Miles and Huberman model. The results showed that the income of rice farmers was Rp. 489.586348 with 27 farmers, tomato commodities were Rp. 20.991.667 with 2 farmers, and mustard commodities were Rp. 5.160.000 with 1 farmer. The total family living cost of the respondents per month is Rp. 87,799,980. In general, farmers use a double-income strategy to meet the needs of their families, such as pulling bentor (ngojek), workshops, and construction workers
Search engine marketing in creating website user impressions
Authors:   State University of Trade and Economics, IANKOVETS Tetiana
Published: February 2024

Increased competition in the digital environment leads to the search for effective tools to attract targeted traffic to websites. Search engine marketing (SEM), which includes search engine (contextual) advertising (SEA) and search engine optimization (SEO), allows toachieve this aim by means of technical settings and consideration of marketing aspects in creating user impressions. The effectiveness of search engine marketing is tested in practice with the help of web analytics, which allows real-time tracking of traffic, its sources, and user actions, which helps identify the most effective tools and advertising campaigns. In the context of the emerging impression economy, improving the user experience of potential and existing customers at every touchpoint depends on the speed and convenience of achieving user goals in the digital environment. Search engine marketing is based on users’ search queries in the face of actualized demand. Therefore, websites that are quickly accessible in search and contain a value proposition in accordance with the search queries of potential customers will be convenient for users, have a competitive advantage by providing positive impressions based on an improved customer experience. This approach ensures that the interests of both users and businesses are satisfied, thus achieving the goals of digital marketing and business efficiency in general. The aim of the recearh is to substantiate the relationship between search contextual advertising and search engine optimization as search engine marketing tools and to identify their synergistic impact on creating positive user impressions, increasing targeted traffic and increasing website conversion. In the reseach, the general scientific methods of analysis and synthesis, system-structural analysis, comparison, systematic, logical generalization were used. Based on the semantic mechanism of working with search queries, the article substantiates the relationship between search engine advertising and search engine optimization as search engine marketing tools and reveals their synergistic impact on creating positive user impressions, increasing targeted traffic and increasing website conver­sion. The proposed algorithms for search engine advertising and internal search engine optimi­zation, taking into account the technical and marketing aspects of the implementation of these digital marketing tools, help in this regard.