bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Plagiat jako forma braku poszanowania praw autorskich pracowników nauki. Perspektywa wiktymologiczna
Authors: Moczuk Eugeniusz , Kamuda Dorota , Lesniak-Moczuk Arkadiusz 
Published: February 2024

Patologia w środowisku akademickim nie jest zjawiskiem odosobnionym. Różnorodne zjawiska dysfunkcjonalne, które pojawiają się w tej społeczności, obejmując wiele zachowań, nie mają nic wspólnego z prawdą naukową czy ethosem uczonego. Jedną z takich sytuacji jest zjawisko plagiaryzmu w nauce, na którego genezę składają się liczne czynniki mające charakter instytucjonalny, instytucjonalno-organizacyjny, grupowy i indywidualny. I mimo istnienia odpowiednich przepisów prawa, które mówią o prawie autorskim, własności intelektualnej, czy o przywłaszczaniu sobie autorstwa albo wprowadzaniu w błąd co do autorstwa całości lub części cudzego utworu, brakuje legalnej definicji plagiatu, a zjawisko to nie zostało nadal wyeliminowane ze współczesnej nauki. W niniejszym opracowaniu dokonano analizy plagiaryzmu z perspektywy wiktymologicznej, prezentując, jakie są odczucia ofiary plagiatu w sytuacji, gdy posiądzie ona wiedzę o takim zdarzeniu. Wykorzystano tu analityczną metodę jakościową z zakresu socjologii prawa, jaką jest analiza przypadku.
Seed Security for Food Security: A Situation Analysis from the Rural Home Gardens
Authors: Bandara A.M.S.M.R.S.G.  , Hansika S.T.  , De Silva D.A.M.  , Mitsuyuki T.  
Published: February 2024

Seeds being a primary agricultural input, its availability, access, and affordability is directly linked to the agricultural production. Traditional home gardens, backyards, Kandyan forest gardens, and micro-agricultural systems rich in biodiversity and species, mix with the knowledge and skills of the community to manage sustainable food production systems. Therefore, the study targeted to identify the types of seed production and preservation systems available among the farming community, and to identify the impact of seed ownership on household resilience to food insecurity. Data were gathered using an initial transaction walk, and a series of focus group discussions with rural households of Imbulpe and Boralanda GN divisions of Rathnapura and Badulla districts, respectively. The study areas were selected given the diversity of the crops in the area. Sample profile included 30 farmers who were purposively selected from each GN division. Results were analyzed using descriptive statistics and it revealed the existence of two seed production and preservation systems: formal and informal. Formal seed systems included both private and public stakeholders in seed and planting material business. Farmers used these formal seed systems for commercial level cultivation of both up-country and low-country vegetables. Informal seed systems were characterized with the own production, selection, storage, and maintenance of seed banks, barter system, and community seed gifting/sharing, and purchasing locally produced seeds from the locality. Informal seed systems were identified mainly for cereals (traditional rice varieties), pulses, fruits, vegetables, and spices at home gardening level. This resulted in seed and planting material ownership retaining among the local farmers. Seed ownership is an intangible asset which empowers social and human capital status of the households. Locally bred varieties proved to be resilient to climate change and maintain the crop diversity in home gardens. Informally sourced seeds recorded comparatively low yield than the hybrid/improved seed varieties that are sourced from formal seed systems. In conclusion own seed supplies ensured food availability, minimized seasonal yield variations, and enhanced meal diversity.
Keywords: Food security, Household resilience, Seed system
Habitat Utilization and Behavioral Patterns of the Endemic Sri Lankan Green Pit Viper (Craspedocephalus trigonocephalus) in the Wet Zone of Sri Lanka
Authors: Mahaulpatha W.A.D.  , Dhananjani D.M.T.  
Published: February 2024

Behavioral patterns and habitat utilization of the endemic Green Pit Viper (GPV) Craspedocephalus trigonocephalus were studied in the wet zone of Sri Lanka. The region, which is covered by the wet zone, has no significant dry periods and a moderately high mean annual rainfall of over 2,500 mm. Data collection occurred between April 2021 and March 2022 with a total of 260 hours of standardized sampling effort distributed throughout the collection period. The method used was an active search which consists of a visual search of up to six meters from the central line along each side of the quadrate. Quadrats were placed in habitats, taking each GPV sighting as the center of a quadrate. At each GPV-occupied quadrat, ambient temperature, body surface temperature, prey availability, perch position and perch light level were recorded. The day was divided into six-time periods as; early morning, morning, mid-day, evening, late evening, and night. Activity level was determined considering the number of GPV that could be visually observed. A total of 49 GPV were examined during the study. Focal animal sampling was conducted, and an ethogram was developed. A strong positive relationship was observed between ambient temperature (Ta) and body surface temperature (Ts) of GPVs (Pearson correlation r=0.936). The highest number of individuals preferred filtered sun light (57.14%). C. trigonocephalus mostly preferred distal position on the branches followed by middle and apical. There was a significant difference in the percentage of individuals with different behaviors [ANOVA, F=3.64, p<0.05]. Behavioral pattern of GPV varied in the temporal scale during the day. During the morning time slot, C. trigonocephalus spent most of the time ambushing (16.12%) and basking (6.42%) respectively. During the mid-day they spent most of their time basking (10.57%), followed by resting (7.15%). The evening, late evening, night, and early morning slots were spent mostly on ambushing. The highest average time of 239 min was spent on ambushing behavior. Feeding behavior (9.8 min) had relatively short time on average. Results of this study indicate that C. trigonocephalus is well adapted for the utilization of its preferred habitat in the wet zone, and that, it displayed behavioral patterns that vary within temporal scales, which results in more efficient and effective utilization of resources. Therefore, this study provides important insights for conservation and management of C. trigonocephalus by critically evaluating the requirements of this species.
Keywords: Craspedocephalus trigonocephalus, Behavior, Endemic pit viper, Wet zone
Public Opinion Survey on the Status of Waste Management in Sri Lanka
Authors: Ariyasingha U.D.H.P.  
Published: February 2024

Solid waste and wastewater management is a critical issue in Sri Lanka. Self-administered 18 questions were used for primary data collection covering 1,158 responses within 25 districts randomly. Age groups of the respondents and their contribution (as a percentage) for the survey were; below 18yrs (3.01%), 18-30yrs (90.59%), 30-45yrs (3.17%) and above 45yrs (1.90%). Among the respondents; 75.09% were undergraduates, 8.89% were employed, 6.13% were school students and, 5.76 were in other institutes of higher education. The time period of the survey was from 20th July 2021 to 6th August 2021. Survey was carried out using online platform (google forms). Questioner was developed to acquire information related to; solid waste, water quality (using taste as a parameter), waste disposal, disposal methods, type of wastes collected, were obtained. This was not merely a household survey, but included waste management done by Municipal councils as well. The objectives of this survey were; to find the quality of water in each area of Sri Lanka, to get an idea about household wastes and the availability of methodical waste disposal facilities, and to obtain ideas from the respondents. According to the data obtained from the survey, 83.77% of the respondents claimed that the consumed water doesn‘t contain hardness. Also, 56.30% respondents reuse household wastewater while 54.58% respondents dispose of less than 1kg of waste daily. Open dumping areas don't exist for 78.93% of the respondents, 56.39% of the respondents were aware of land-filling but 8.98 % thought that landfill process was not a good solution for garbage disposal. The disposal of non-degradable wastes to the environment was 50.07%. Burnt and open dumping percentages of household wastes were 34.54% and 10.47% respectively. Waste collection by the municipal councils does not happen systematically according to 55.01% respondents. Garbage recycling centers do not exist for 69.34% respondents. The survey showed that knowledge of waste disposal methods and environmental impacts must be improved. Awareness programs have to be conducted to acknowledge the community. Solutions from the respondents included establishing more sanitary land-filling facilities in necessary areas. Encouraging recycling of waste among the communities by conducting awareness programs about recycling companies that buy separated wastes like plastics, papers, glasses etc. which would provide an additional income.
Keywords: Solid waste, Wastewater, Disposal, Land-filling, Garbage
Comparison of Filter Media for Wastewater Treatment by a Prototype Trickling Filter
Authors: Wijetunga S.  , Selvanayagam A.  , Samarakoon D.  , Samaraweera M.D.S.  
Published: February 2024

The microbial process of wastewater treatment, attached growth, has significantly improved during recent years. Different filter media are used for microbial attached growth in trickling filters (TF) in the world. One of the main functions of filter media is the high surface area for the attachment of microorganisms to grow. Major wastewater treatment plants use stones as a medium for increasing the surface area in TFs. The proper grade of stone could not always be found within a reasonable distance from the wastewater treatment plant sites, significantly increasing transportation costs. Low-cost substitute materials, instead of stones, can reduce the cost of TF while increasing their treatment efficiency. This study attempted to use crushed waste polythene as a low-cost substitute material for stones. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the performance of prototype TF with crushed waste polythene and; to compare the treatment efficiency of two prototype TFs (with stone and with crushed waste polythene). Two prototype TFs were prepared using plastic barrels (250L) with two types of filter materials. The flow rate of the filters was 922mL/min and trickling filters were evaluated for two months for treatment efficiency. Water samples were taken before and after the trickling filter to determine the treatment efficiency. During the process of trickling filters, COD removal appeared to increase and it may be due to the adaptation of microbes to the new environment. The COD removal was comparatively higher in trickling filters with crushed polythene (62%) than in stones (42.6%). Almost similar results of pH and EC were found in both trickling filters. Total solids in treated wastewater were also almost similar in the two trickling filters. Based on the results of this study, it can be concluded that crushed polythene is a good alternative for stones in trickling filters.
Keywords: Crushed polythene, Filter material, Stone, Trickling filter, Wastewater
Study of BOD: COD Ratio as an Indicator for Wastewater of Rubber Industry Sector
Authors: Jayasinghe J.A.W.W.  , Kiriella K.G.T.N.  , Jayarathne L.  , Priyadarshani C.  , Shiromani M.K.S.  , Rajapakshe R.M.A.O.A.  
Published: February 2024

When considering the rubber industry sector, the most significant challenge is the efficient wastewater treatment before discharging it into the natural environment. The rubber industry is considered to be highly chemical and water-intensive: and involves enormous quantitative s of waste production. The ratio between Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD5) and Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) is a widely used parameter in characterising wastewater and then the same was used in this study as an indication to measure the efficiency of wastewater treatment plant operated in the rubber industry sector. Data for the study was extracted from samples collected from 10 wastewater treatment plants of rubber industries in the Sabaragamuwa Province; two samples from each representing before and after treatment. The samples were tested in two replicated for BOD5, COD, pH, and conductivity. These selected rubber factories contain lagoon/pond type wastewater treatment systems or activated sludge wastewater treatment systems. The results showed that the treated wastewater samples were within the range of 0.1–0.4 of BOD5: COD and were below the BOD5: COD permissible level as per CEA standards. (General standards for rubber in inland surface waters; Latex-BOD 60, COD 400; Lanka rubber/crepe rubber–BOD 50, COD 400) comparing the BOD, COD, pH, and conductivity influent and effluent of the treatment process proves the effectiveness of each treatment plant of the relevant industry. Tested samples show a high BOD5: COD ratio in influent and effluent of wastewater treatment system indicate that wastewater of the industry is easily biodegradable. However, more research comparing the characteristics of different rubber manufacturing processes is needed to develop this approach further.
Keywords: BOD, COD, BOD: COD ratio, Wastewater treatment plant
Microplastic Bioaccumulation in Selected Finfish Species Harvested from Northwest Coastal Waters, Sri Lanka: A Potential Risk to Human Health?
Authors: Kandeyaya K.B.K.D.K.  , Ranatunga R.R.M.K.P  
Published: February 2024

The widespread bioavailability of microplastics (MP) in the marine environment has upraised intense interest over the last few decades. However, MP trophic transfer via appetizing portions of marine organisms remains less recognized. Therefore, the present study looked at bioaccumulation potential of MPs investigating four common edible finfish species; Sardinella gibbosa, Stolephorus commersonnii, Hemiramphus archipelagicus, and Katsuwonus pelamis representing different trophic levels from Northwest Coastal waters. In the experimental protocol, the wild-caught finfish samples were analyzed considering their edible (muscle) vs non-edible (gastrointestinal (GI) tract and gills) tissues. The structural characteristics of MP materials were screened by stereomicroscope whereas elemental composition using Fourier-Transform Infrared spectroscopy. Amongst all the studied samples, around 96% exhibited MP contamination in the size range of 0.06 mm-0.11 mm. Fibers, fragments, and films were the prominent MP types detected while Polyethylene, Polypropylene, Polystyrene, and Nylon-6,6 were the polymeric substances extensively recorded. K. pelamis and S. commersonnii displayed the highest (1.1±0.54 MP/g) and lowest (0.1±0.02 MP/g) mean MP levels in edible portions, respectively. The MP quantities extracted from gills, GI tract, and flesh of each sample were significantly different (p<0.05), thereby Pearson correlation test results implied the GI tract as the major possible exposure route of higher trophic finfishes while gills act as the key direction of filter feeders. Parametric One-way ANOVA test indicated that the trophic transfer interactions in the studied finfish food chains were significant (p<0.05) at 95% level of confidence. Trophic Magnification Factors (TMF=2.347, 3.449) and Biomagnification Factors (1<BMF) of examined food chains signified that MPs are conceivably biomagnified in edible parts of marine food webs even though the contamination in edible tissues was significantly lower than that of non-edible shares as per the Two sample T-test and Mann-Whitney tests. Therefore, the findings advocate that trophic transfer denotes an oblique, yet possible key pathway of MP ingestion for any individual who depends on seafood diets habitually. Since the MPs magnification could possibly ensure the trophic dilution. However, considering the physical and chemical toxicities and associated contaminants of MPs, there is a necessity for further studies assessing the human susceptibility to MP-related hazards via the routine consumption of seafood. Addressing this gap which implies with food safety and pollution control is a vital primacy due to the nutritional value of seafood consumption.
Keywords: Microplastic, Trophic transfer, Biomagnification, Seafood
Economic Importance of Consuming Homemade Turmeric: A Case of Kandy District in Sri Lanka
Authors: Hewage R.G.S.M.  , Malkanthi S H P.  
Published: February 2024

Turmeric or Curcuma longa L. is prized in Sri Lankan cuisine for its delicate flavor, distinct yellow color, and potent aroma. This great spice is highly praised in Ayurveda medicine for its anti- inflammatory properties as well. However, unlike the ancient time, cultivation of turmeric at household level at the recent past was not so significant and the country heavily relies on imported turmeric. Short-time after COVID 19 pandemic in the country, the government banned on non- essential imports including turmeric. Due to very high price and shortage of turmeric in the market and impact of black market of turmeric, while some people adopted to cultivate turmeric in small scale some people did it at large-scales. This study was conducted to study the present situation of consumption of homemade turmeric in Kandy district of the country and understand the economic importance of it. 150 turmeric cultivators were selected for the study. Data collection was conducted using questionnaire survey from June to August 2022. Data analyses were done using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis. According to the results, it was discovered that after drying turmeric, convert into a powder and consumed by them. When economic importance are concerned, their average income was found as 11,095.238 rupees per season and average saving was found as 797.13 rupees per person per season. Also a positive relationship was found between consumption of homemade turmeric and its independent variables (family members, monthly income, interest for turmeric, and market price of turmeric) by the study. As a whole, the growers adopted to homemade turmeric as consumption of homemade turmeric is economically and hygienically very important. If there is a good market, most of the turmeric cultivators are willing to grow turmeric continuously. So, they expect proper knowledge related to do cultivation and processing of turmeric. It is very important to pay attention on this and provide proper training programs and good market price for turmeric, in order to enhance the turmeric production of the country in the future.
Keywords: Turmeric cultivation, Homemade Turmeric, Consumption, Economic importance
A Comparison of Resources Usage for Two White-Leg Shrimp (Penaeus vannamei) Farming Systems (Earthen Pond System and Round Tank System)
Authors: Darshika K.A.N.  , De Silva D.N.  , Subasinghe R.  , Pallewatta P.K.T.N.S.  
Published: February 2024

Shrimp farming plays an important role in providing nutritious food and generating livelihoods for many millions of people worldwide. Asia is the biggest producer of shrimp contributing nearly 80% of the global shrimp aquaculture production. Black tiger shrimp (Penaeus monodon) is the main brackish water aquaculture species in Sri Lanka before 2018. White-leg shrimp (Penaeus vannamei) was a new species that was introduced in 2018 expecting a rapid increase in production in the country. Shrimp farming is classified into several categories: extensive, semi-intensive, intensive, and super-intensive based on the intensity of management practices such as stocking density, supply of feed and fertilizer, and management of water qualities. The round tank system is round-shaped and is a type of lined pond that uses an impermeable geomembrane for the retention of water. It belongs to the super-intensive category. The earthen pond is a water body that is basically enclosed by the earth. It belongs to the intensive category. The purpose of this study was to assess the amounts of land, water, and energy required per ton of harvested shrimp in two different production systems and identify the most sustainable system that is used minimum natural resources. The round tank system is located in the Erukkalampiddy area in the Mannar district, Sri Lanka. The earthen pond system is located in the Maikkulama area in the Puttalam district, Sri Lanka. Data on water usage, electricity usage, land area usage, and weight of harvested shrimp were collected during two cycles of production from August 2021 to May 2022. The t-tests were performed to compare resource usages. Land usage of the earthen pond system (950.00 m2/t shrimp, 1266.67 m2/t shrimp) is significantly greater than the round tank system (190.77 m2/t shrimp, 139.33 m2/t shrimp). Water usage of the earthen pond system (950.00 m3/t shrimp, 1266.67 m3/t shrimp) is significantly greater than the round tank system (190.77 m3/t shrimp, 139.33 m3/t shrimp). Energy usage of the round tank system (473.84 kWh/t shrimp, 591.46 kWh/t shrimp) is significantly greater than the earthen pond system (119.91 kWh/t shrimp, 154.78 kWh/t shrimp). It concludes that less land and water resources and high energy usage are required for a round tank system compared to an earthen pond system. Although establishing a round tank system will need more capital, compared to that of an earthen pond system, it is evident that the round tanksystem is more environmentally sustainable.
Keywords: Shrimp farming, Round tank system, Earthen pond system, White-leg shrimp (Penaeus vannamei)