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In recent years, the Journal of Palaeogeography (Chinese Edition and English Edition) continually received manuscripts, in which some authors are from China and some are from Pakistan, Lithuania, Morocco, South Africa, etc. The authors of these manuscripts, according to the viewpoint and method of Miall's paper (1985), selected rocks from each bed in the clastic sections of their study areas and induced some rock types, such as conglomerates, sandstones and fine-grained stones, and considered them as lithofacies. It does not conform to the definition of lithofacies. I wrote some papers, i.e., Feng (2018, 2019, 2020), to point out the problems and hope that the authors worldwide, especially Chinese authors, will not continually cite, spread and follow Miall's paper (1985) viewpoint and method blindly. Prof. Miall is the first person who considered rocks (in fact, the sediments) as lithofacies and proposed a facies analysis method. His viewpoint and facies analysis method confused the definition of facies and facies analysis method. My current paper is a special article to discuss the principal problems of Miall's paper (1985), i.e., he considered the sediments as lithofacies and utilized lithofacies to analyze facies, but not to discuss the contributions and less strictness of architectural elements of his paper. Here, I have to declare that the facies in my current paper is the facies of sedimentary petrology, but not of other geological disciplines, such as igneous petrology, metamorphic petrology, palaeontology, stratigraphy, geophysics, geochemistry. Certainly, the definitions of facies and lithofacies are controversial. My current paper will adhere to the policy of "A hundred flowers blossom and a hundred schools of thought contend". I hope that through academic discussions, contends and geological practice, these problems will be solved gradually. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen is a relatively new source of sustainable energy resources; presently, its usage ranges from direct energy generation in mixed-cycle thermal power plants to its usage in the internal combustion engine. If the generation of hydrogen is coupled with renewable energy resources, the use of hydrocarbons can be substantially reduced in both energy generation and transportation. In this paper, we conducted a national-level assessment to identify the hydrogen generation capacity of Pakistan. The methodology used in this study is a combination of spatial multi-criteria analysis and density-based clustering in a geographical information systems environment. Based on the analysis, the national clusters capable of producing green hydrogen were identified. The results shows that the hydrogen generation capacity for Pakistan is approximately 7 million tons per year using solar photovoltaic energy. The Surab-Gwadar alignment, N-25 national highway, and Quetta-to-D-I-Khan alignment offer potential hydrogen generation sites with water resources. Most of the identified sites for the production of hydrogen in the country were found to be near the national electricity transmission networks. The Best-Worst Method was further employed to provide policymakers with a road map for prioritizing the development of these capacities based on their proximity to the national networks, their terrain suitability, and their generation capacities. • This paper assesses the suitable sites for solar-based green hydrogen production in Pakistan. • The methodology used involves a combination of spatial multicriteria analysis, clustering, and the best-worst method. • Pakistan's theoretical annual hydrogen generation capacity is around 7 million tons annually. • The Surab-Gwadar alignment presents promising hydrogen generation opportunities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Culturally adapted CBT has been shown to have favorable outcomes. • Cultural factors influence clinical factors as well as management. • The case of a young female from Pakistan is discussed with cultural challenges. • Factors relating to ethnicity, class, religion and gender are addressed. • Cognitive restructuring, Socratic questioning, mentalisation were adapted culturally. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is used widely throughout the world in diverse populations for successful treatment of a wide range of psychiatric and comorbid conditions. Over the years clinicians have been making efforts to culturally adapt CBT to various groups. This paper discusses the assessment and treatment of a young female from Pakistan with depression and anxiety with comorbid headache. After ruling out all organic causes, the treatment continued over 20 sessions with the initial phase consisting of introduction to CBT, risk assessment, and identification of treatment goals. Following this, the patient was helped in identifying automatic thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Finally, tools such as thought substitutions, reappraisals, and positive diversions were used effectively to decrease automatic negative thoughts. A focus on the patient's religio-cultural identity was maintained throughout. Understanding of contextual factors like religio-cultural values and family dynamics helped to bring about favorable therapy outcomes. A case conceptualization that cohesively addressed factors relating to ethnicity, class, and gender yielded a positive result in our case. Involvement of the family and psychoeducation regarding neurobiological causes also proved to be helpful. Such an approach can facilitate a culturally responsive application of CBT in Pakistani youth experiencing comorbid medical and psychiatric disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to analyze the individual's socioeconomic and demographic determinants of financial inclusion and its barriers among for South Asian countries in the lens of existing financial inclusion policy, using World Bank Global Findex database for the period 2011, 2014, 2017, and 2021. We use the Probit regression model to explore the main objective of this study. In addition, we also analyze the trend, pattern, and barriers of financial inclusion for the period 2011- 2021 to identify differences among south Asian countries. Our results reveal that Sri Lanka is the best performer in the inclusivity of financial products as well as removing barriers to financial inclusion in all four periods. While Pakistan and Afghanistan are the least financially included countries, also they failed to remove barriers to financial inclusion. Moreover, our empirical results suggest that individuals who are male, older, wealthier, and more educated are more likely to access financial services, with income and education exerting a higher influence. Further, age shows a non-linear (inverted U-shaped) relationship with financial inclusion indicators. Additionally, we found that individuals having a formal account are the most important indicators of financial inclusion. And the reasons for financial exclusion (i.e., not having an account) are mainly voluntary among South Asian individuals. In fact, it is found that policies like Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana for India and National Financial Inclusion Strategy across all South Asian countries play a significant role in accelerating financial inclusion and helping in removing its barriers with different magnitudes. Therefore, our finding stresses the importance of heterogeneous integrated policy measures for the targeted groups of the population, particularly the most vulnerable group among South Asian countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Information technology infrastructure (ITI) has gone through an exponential change due to the rapid evolution of digital technologies during the past few years. It is therefore relevant to identify the factors that push organizations towards the adoption of new technologies. This paper considers a specific case study of the higher education institutions (HEI) to present (i) the motivational factors that push HEIs toward the adoption of new technologies, and (ii) the key challenges HEIs face in the adoption of these technologies. The data was gathered after conducting 17 open-ended interviews with practitioners working at HEIs in Finland and Pakistan. Data analysis identified 10 motivational factors and 41 challenges faced by HEI in the adoption of the latest technologies. Furthermore, the data was further classified to identify broad themes and categories representing the challenges and motivation factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the ionospheric responses to the February and April 2023 geomagnetic storms using Total Electron Content (TEC) derived from the 10 Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) stations at the transition of low to mid-latitudes (Approx. 20 ∼ 30°N) across different longitudes in the American and Asian sectors. Significant variations in both sectors were recorded during the recovery phase and were mainly attributed to the Prompt Penetration Electric Field (PPEF), Disturbance Dynamo Electric Field (DDEF) and the thermospheric neutral composition changes as O/N 2 depletion. Similarly, the American and Asian sectors showed TEC enhancements, primarily attributed to the PPEF, during the main phase of the April storm. The negative TEC variations during the recovery phase were observed due to the DDEF and changes in O/N 2. In the Asian sector, positive and negative variations were recorded over Pakistan and China, respectively, during the main phase of the April storm. These variations resulted in high and low concentrations of the O/N 2 ratio due to Magnetosphere-Ionosphere-Thermosphere coupling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The maritime sector of Pakistan has a rich history and vast potential; however, it has yet to ratify the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC-2006). This paper provides a comprehensive overview of Pakistan's maritime sector, labour market, and an introduction to its potential in the context of the blue economy as a flag state, port state, and seafarers-supplying state. The study primarily focuses on why Pakistan needs to ratify the MLC-2006 to adhere to international standards for seafarer welfare and protection. The paper examines the impact of the MLC-2006 on the sector, along with the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) of Pakistan ratifying the MLC-2006. The paper concludes that ratifying the MLC-2006 could offer significant benefits to the government, ship-owners, and seafarers in Pakistan by safeguarding their rights, enhancing operational efficiency, and improving the country's reputation in the maritime industry. Lastly, the paper suggests that the adoption of the MLC-2006 could greatly benefit Pakistan's maritime sector. It would enhance seafarers' rights, improve working conditions, promote high training standards, and create a transparent and accountable industry. This would attract investment, enhance competitiveness, and encourage youth participation in the profession. Compliance with the MLC-2006 would also secure Pakistan-flagged vessels and attract more international freight to its ports. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Information problems are pervasive in developing economies and can hinder productivity growth. This paper studies how much rural producers in developing countries can learn from their own cultivation experience, i.e. learning by doing, to redress important information gaps about imperfectly known input technologies. First, I build a theoretical model which links learning by doing in one period to improved input choices in the next period, and show that this can be impeded by uncertainty about what is being observed due to noisy cultivation signals and by uncertainty about what to infer about market varieties due to imperfect variety integrity. Second, I apply this framework to cotton farmers in Pakistan, where farmers have imperfect information prior to cultivation about the extent to which their seeds have pest resistant biotechnology. The results suggest that farmers are unable to learn by doing about this aspect of their seeds due to a high degree of noise in cultivation signals. The paper highlights the potential difficulties in parsing out and processing information from cultivation experience alone and therefore of learning by doing by rural producers in a development context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Covid-19 has triggered a massive global challenge with 1,576,069 overall confirmed cases, 1,545,429 recovered cases, and 30,640 deaths across Pakistan. Epidemiological models have always played an important role in understanding the dynamics of such infectious diseases. The severity of Covid-19 infection depends on several factors such as immune system and virus variants. Although detailed epidemiological models which consider these factors are generally more accurate, their complexity limits their application due to the unavailability of comprehensive historical data. Therefore, in this paper, we proposed a Susceptible-Non-severely Infected-Severely Infected-Recovered-Deceased model, for the prediction of Covid-19 infections. The proposed model broadly classifies Covid-19 infections into non-severe and severe infections. This classification is based on the overall effect of virus variants and individual immune systems. The important epidemiological proprieties of the model such as equilibrium points, stabilities and bifurcation analysis are discussed. The model is fitted to the Covid-19 data of Pakistan to predict the non-severe and severe infections over the next four months. The comparison of predicted and actual infections shows the forecasting efficiency of the model. Moreover, the prediction of a severely-infected population in the upcoming months can be of significant help to policy-makers in the efficient management of hospitalization services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advances in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) bear the promise of multiple benefits, including individual and entrepreneurial empowerment. The prospect of harnessing ICT as a means of creating growth and development opportunities is particularly appealing in developing countries. Still, several factors, including digital illiteracy and gender inequality, hamper the possibility of effective and universal utilization of these opportunities, in extreme cases leading to digital divide, gender-based exclusion, poverty, and precarity. Using this observation as a springboard, the objective of this paper is to conceptualize and quantify the digital divide-gender-entrepreneurial orientation nexus as it emerges in the perception of Pakistan higher education students. Using a quantitative approach, this study identifies the impact of digital skills (and thus the knowledge inequalities that can determine the potential digital gap) on entrepreneurship-related technology adoption (as measured through Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology, UTAUT), whereby gender is treated as a moderator. The empirical findings, based on Structure Equation Modelling (SEM) and Multiple Group Analysis (MGA), show that digital skills and perceptions of technology capabilities have a substantial impact on the desire to use ICT in entrepreneurial activities. The influence of technology adoption intent on the development of entrepreneurial orientation is also confirmed. This paper adds to the broader debate on gender, digital divide and entrepreneurship. Importantly, by identifying some of the drivers behind students' technology adoption in a developing nation such as Pakistan, filled with technological and economic unbalances, the conclusions of this study will have conceptual, managerial, and policymaking applications, notably in terms of technological access, digital literary, and gender-based exclusion. • This paper examines the digital divide-entrepreneurial orientation-gender nexus among Pakistani higher education students. • Digital skills and perceptions of technology capabilities significatly impact the desire to use ICT for entrepreneurship. • The influence of technology adoption intent on the development of entrepreneurial orientation is also confirmed. • Results have managerial and policymaking applications about technological access, digital literary and gender exclusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change and scarcity of energy sources have put developing countries in a situation that demands emergency future planning for matured renewable technologies in order to continue sustainable progress and provide clean and cheap energy to masses. This paper provides a comprehensive structure of site suitability for utility scale solar PV and wind energy projects considering criteria critical to each technology while only using criteria with absolute necessity for varying scenarios incorporating Multi Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) along with Geographic Information System (GIS). A novel approach is also considered for far-off areas potentially deprived of electricity access for small scale solar PV implementation. A total of eight sub-criteria were considered in site selection process regarding wind and solar energy, analyzed using Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) in order to rank criteria depending on their importance to selection process. Resulting methodology was applied to case study of Pakistan, a developing country with growing climate change emergency and ongoing power crisis. End results showed 25.28% area suitable for utility scale solar PV farms, 5.93% area suitable for utility scale wind farms and 40.02% suitable area for small scale solar PV farms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Growth, underpinned by augmented production, has been the dominant mode of development, where the focus is to influence the ability to increase the output and income of producers. In this process, differences in economic achievement are influenced collectively by geography, culture and institutions that determine effective capabilities. Yet, disparities associated with place are still widespread. In this paper, we draw some insights on the nature of economic deprivation amongst Pakistan households using Household Integrated Economic Survey (PSLM/HIES) data and treating the residential location as a key parameter of interest. In relating to the well-known discussion on rural–urban divide, we identify some commonalities in location-specific attributes in the achievement of economic-wellbeing. The analyses confirm the existing knowledge that poverty and well-being have strong place attachments, favouring urban areas as locations of greater relative well-being due to low levels of deprivation, in particular health, education and food security. In discussing how location may predispose inhabitants to deprivations or vulnerabilities, we identify some opportunities to realign development focus towards meeting local needs and raising aspirations for self-empowerment by better focusing on the nature of economic linkages that supports livelihood diversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel Pandemic COVID-19 led globally to severe health barriers and financial issues in different parts of the world. The forecast on COVID-19 infections is significant. Demeanor vital data will help in executing policies to reduce the number of cases efficiently. Filtering techniques are appropriate for dynamic model structures as it provide reasonable estimates over the recursive Bayesian updates. Kalman Filters, used for controlling epidemics, are valuable in knowing contagious infections. Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) have generally been used for classification and forecasting problems. ANN models show an essential role in several successful applications of neural networks and are commonly used in economic and business studies. Long short-term memory (LSTM) model is one of the most popular technique used in time series analysis. This paper aims to forecast COVID-19 on the basis of ANN, KF, LSTM and SVM methods. We applied ANN, KF, LSTM and SVM for the COVID-19 data in Pakistan to find the number of deaths, confirm cases, and cases of recovery. The three methods were used for prediction, and the results showed the performance of LSTM to be better than that of ANN and KF method. ANN, KF, LSTM and SVM endorsed the COVID-19 data in closely all three scenarios. LSTM, ANN and KF followed the fluctuations of the original data and made close COVID-19 predictions. The results of the three methods helped significantly in the decision-making direction for short term strategies and in the control of the COVID-19 outbreak. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epidemiology is the study of how and why an infectious disease occurs in a group of people. Several epidemiological models have been developed to get information on the spread of a disease in society. That information is used to plan strategies to prevent illness and manage patients. But, most of these models consider only random diffusion of the disease and hence ignore the number of interactions among people. To take into account the interactions among individuals, the network approach is becoming increasingly popular. It is novel to consider the dynamics of infectious disease using various networks rather than classical differential equation models. In this paper, we numerically simulate the Susceptible-Infected-Recoverd (SIR) model on Barabási-Albert network and Erdös-Rényi network to analyze the spread of COVID-19 in Pakistan so that we know the severity of the disease. We also show how a situation becomes alarming if hubs in a network get infected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Nationally representative evidence on abortion service provision is scarce in South Asia. To inform improvements in service provision, this paper assesses the availability of facility-based postabortion services in Nepal, India (six states), Bangladesh and Pakistan, and legal abortion services in India and Nepal and Bangladesh (where the official term used is menstrual regulation or MR).Study Design: The paper presents comparable indicators on three aspects of abortion service provision from representative surveys of public and private sector facilities, conducted over 2012-2015. Indicators cover three areas: (a) need for abortion-related care (total number of abortions and percent of abortions that are legal and the postabortion treatment rate); (b) availability and accessibility of facility-based abortion-related services (percent of facilities offering only one of the two services, percent which are public and percent located in rural areas); (c) quality of facility-based abortion care (percent of legal abortions using procedures not recommended by WHO and percent of women turned away when seeking abortion or MR services).Results: The proportion of all abortions that are illegal ranges from 58% to almost 78% in the three countries where abortion is permitted under broad criteria. The annual treatment rate for abortion complications ranges from about 4 to 26 per 1000 women ages 15-49 across the countries and states covered. In India and Nepal, less than 40% of public sector facilities that are permitted to provide abortion services do so; in Bangladesh, the situation is somewhat better, at 53% providing MR. Across the six Indian states, 4-43% of facilities that offer abortion care are located in rural areas, disproportionately lower than the proportion of women living in rural areas (49-87%). About 30-60% of facilities offered only postabortion care and did not offer legal services in the three countries where legal services are permitted (with the sole exception of Tamil Nadu where this proportion was only 11%); of the remaining facilities, the large majority offered both services. Medication abortion is offered by the large majority of facilities that provide induced abortion and accounts for 40-45%, of facility-based abortions in Nepal and four of the states of India; in Assam and Bihar, this proportion was much lower (13% and 27% respectively). Invasive procedures that are not recommended by WHO are more widely used in India (up to 25-37% of facility-based abortions are D&C procedures; the large majority of this group are D&C, and a small proportion may be D&E, a WHO-recommended abortion procedure, that could not be separated out in this study because providers use the two labels interchangeably); by comparison, the proportion is much smaller in Nepal (5%). Between 22% to a little over half of facilities turned away some women who would otherwise be eligible for an abortion or MR procedure in Nepal, the six Indian states, and Bangladesh.Conclusions: There is an urgent need to increase access to abortion, MR and postabortion services, especially for rural women. Greater access to legal abortion/MR services in the three countries that permit these procedures would increase the proportion of abortions that are legal and safe, reduce morbidity and the need for facility-based treatment for complications. Broadening the legal criteria under which abortion is permitted in Pakistan, and implementing access under such broader criteria, is needed to achieve the same improvements in Pakistan. Ensuring that these services are of high quality and comprehensive-meeting WHO-recommended standards-is essential to protect women's reproductive health and rights.Implications: To improve access to abortion, MR and postabortion care in South Asia, all facilities (public and private) permitted to provide these services should do so, and should include medication abortion. Improvements in quality of care are critical: invasive procedures (D&C) should be eliminated through adherence to WHO's standards of safe abortion care and women seeking abortions should not be turned away because of providers' biases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the disruptions in everyday routine and the stresses of food sourcing in the urban food environment among middle class residents of Islamabad, Pakistan. It explores the dynamism of urban food environments in developing countries under the influence of various stressors and highlights adaptations taken by urban consumers. It presents a middle class view of urban food security and explores the potential constraints on food acquisition for a section of the population that has normally considered itself food secure. The paper examines how seasonal scarcities of gas and water, artificial cost inflations during the month of fasting, and regional and local disasters such as floods and militant violence influence food decisions within this group. It pays particular attention to the temporal nature of these disruptions, how they impact perceptions and experiences of food sourcing and the subsequent temporal and spatial adaptations adopted. Specifically, it contributes to the literature on food environments and food security by demonstrating how such disruptions contribute to dynamism within food environments, how the middle class responds to these changes in their everyday lives, and how their perceptions on personal food security are threatened. The paper adds to the literature on the role of time, personal routines, and anticipatory logic in the context of food consumption within a developing country using household-level perspectives of urban food environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the obstacles that impede the implementation of cloud computing (CC) in small-scale building projects. Based on a comprehensive analysis of relevant scholarly sources, this research paper aims to delineate the many obstacles that are often encountered during the implementation of CC. A comprehensive analysis is conducted based on the replies obtained from a survey of 217 stakeholders in the building sector. Using an exploratory factor analysis (EFA) methodology, this research assesses the interrelated obstacles associated with technological and operational restrictions, risk and privacy considerations, cultural dynamics, behavioural variables, unpredictability, and resource barriers. Furthermore, a model is developed using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) in order to get a deeper comprehension of these hindrances. The results of the EFA emphasize the significant impact of risk and privacy barriers in impeding the adoption of CC. The present study offers valuable insights that may inform policymakers in their efforts to enhance the effectiveness of construction projects by addressing the issue of data fragmentation. Through the identification and addressing of these limitations, the research study makes a valuable contribution to the optimization of data fragmentation procedures. Furthermore, it promotes the sustainability of existing building projects by facilitating the more effective exploitation of cloud computing. This paper presents a novel methodology that establishes a foundation for identifying and tackling the many barriers that impede the broad adoption of cloud computing in the construction sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The harmful waste products, beverages, chemical agents that are discharged or emitted by industrial processes are categorized as industrial waste (IW). IW is one of the most severe problems facing governments around the world due to its environmental effect and severity. So the aim of this paper is to develop a method for selecting industrial waste management technique (IWMT) for industry. Dombi Norms were commonly referred to as Dombi operations, but their applications might be better expressed if they are presented with a new level of flexibility within the general parameter. Dombi operations have not yet been applied in non-linear Diophantine fuzzy sets (N-LDFSs) in a suitable form. Therefore we apply the Dombi operators on complex N-LDFS (CN-LDFS) and develop a generalized area of research in decision making problems (DMPs). The majority of decision-making challenges in the actual world contain a wide range of elements that must be taken into account. Making decision under such circumstances can frequently be challenging. To deal with such complicated issues, we require multi-attribute group decision-making (MAGDM) techniques. The aims to discuss MAGDM issues, this paper will introduce a new COmbinative Distance-based ASsessment (CODAS) methodology. In this paper, we put forward three novel aggregation operators (AOs): complex non-linear Diophantine fuzzy Dombi weighted averaging (CN-LDFDWA), complex non-linear Diophantine fuzzy Dombi order weighted averaging (CN-LDFDOWA), and complex non-linear Diophantine fuzzy Dombi hybrid weighted averaging (CN-LDFDHWA). These operators are used in the operational parameter to help a successful solution of the problem. Due to the growing energy and material shortages, as well as to comply with environmental laws and regulations and to take advantage of disposal economics in the current context, industrial waste (IW) should be taken into consideration as one of the potential resources in the steel industry. Further, the proposed decision support model applied to solve a case study regarding to IWMT for Pakistan steel mill corporation (PSMC) under complex N-LDF Dombi operators. The proposed method is more effective and reliable for decision making (DM) model, as compared to the existing method. • We developed aggregation operators (AOs) for CN-LDF Dombi Norms to solve MAGDM issue. • We developed CN-LDFDWA AOs based on CODAS method with all unknown information. • An example regarding to the selection of best IW technique for PSMC is provided. • Comparison provided the feasibility of our work and results are discussed based on ranking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Study of longitudinal ionospheric variations over Asian regions during the intense geomagnetic storms of May and September 2017. • Positive and negative changes were observed during the main and recovery phases of the storms. • Local time variations of the electric field ensure the longitude difference of the TEC variations. This paper presents the longitudinal dependence of ionospheric responses from Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) derived Total Electron Content (TEC) during two intense geomagnetic storms of May and September 2017. The GNSS-TEC is retrieved from four stations installed at the verge of low to mid-latitude Asian regions of Pakistan and China. Two ionospheric enhancements were observed during the storm of May 2017. The first one at local noon–afternoon during the storm main phase on 28 May was due to the southward turning of Interplanetary Magnetic Field (IMF-Bz) and eastward Prompt Penetration Electric Field (PPEF), with the maximum TEC enhancement at Wuhan. The second one at nighttime during the recovery phase of the storm on 29 May triggered ionospheric variations, mainly due to the later southward turning of the IMF-Bz as the Asian regions, were on the nightside with the westward PPEF. Negative storm time ionospheric responses were observed on 30 May, related to the change of the thermospheric composition as O/N 2 depletion. Moreover, a significant increase in TEC was recorded during the main phase of the storm on 8 September 2017. This enhancement corresponded with the eastward PPEF and an increase in the O/N 2. The TEC increment was also observed during the recovery phase on 9 September in the Pakistani stations. A minor storm on 7 September also gave rise to TEC enhancements, especially in western regions. However, the negative phase was registered from 9 to 10 September at each station because of the changes in the thermospheric composition as O/N 2 depletion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Democratic decision-making is often a foundational requirement for the promotion of a democratic culture in educational institutions. • Teachers' unions are important forums that are often helpful in promoting a democratic culture and bottom-up approach in the process of education. • Emerging democracies like the one in Pakistan need to develop democratic culture and bottom-up approaches in educational institutions in order to strengthen democracy, social justice, and inclusivity. • The current study is significance because it analyses the role teachers' unions plays in the democratization of decision-making in education using the social justice and inclusivity framework. • The study is also significance because it also highlights the challenges faced by teachers' unions in initiative related democratization of decision-making in education, and the ways in which teachers' unions face and counter these challenges. Top-down decision-making process has revealed several challenges in educational reforms in North-West part of Pakistan. Political bosses and bureaucrats have often placed an authoritarian decision-making process where school reforms are implemented without much consultation with school teachers' unions. Given the continued need of school teachers' unions being one of the main stakeholders, it is necessary to examine the perspectives and experiences of the leadership of school teachers' unions' who work hard to make niche on the basis of social justice approach in the top bottom decision making process and to identify ways to implement democratic decision making process. The purpose of the current exploratory qualitative study was to investigate school teachers' unions' leadership experiences in the top bottom decision making process, and their overall perspectives on the school-based reforms. This paper explores the perspectives and experiences of five most influential school teachers' unions' leaders regarding the nature of the decision-making process. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews and was analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings revealed that leaders faced several challenges in making their voices count in the current decision-making mechanism. Findings revealed the top-bottom decision-making mechanism is based on vested interests, disregarding the ground realities. School teachers' unions challenge the top bottom approach and support initiatives for evidence-based knowledge, arranging conferences and debates, using print and electronic media to convey their views. They are also use strikes and demonstrations as their last option. The study implies that there is a need for a democratic decision-making mechanism where the input from the school teachers' unions is given due consideration in school based reforms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Paper seeks to explore significant injury severity risk factors in 3-WMR collisions. • Correlated random parameter modeling framework is adopted to address the unobserved heterogeneity. • Importance of considering unobserved heterogeneity is demonstrated. • Study provides useful insights and policy implications to improve the safety of 3-WMR riders. Traffic crashes involving three-wheeler motorized rickshaw (3-WMR) are alarming public health and socioeconomic concerns in developing countries. While most of the earlier studies have dealt with safety analysis of four- and two-wheelers, there is a noticeable gap in understanding the safety dynamics, especially the risk factors affecting the crashes involving 3-WMR. The present study aims to address this gap by exploring potential risk factors influencing 3-WMR crashes, utilizing a correlated random parameters multinomial logit model with heterogeneity in means (CRPMNLMHM). This modeling framework advances the classic random parameters model by capturing associations among random parameters, providing a more comprehensive understanding of crash risks associated with 3-WMR. The empirical analysis draws on three years of traffic crash records (2017–2019) maintained by RESCUE 1122 in Rawalpindi city, Pakistan. A comparative assessment between the modeling frameworks demonstrated that CRPMNLMHM outperformed its counterparts. Model assessment for heterogeneity in the means identifies two significant variables, i.e., young age and nighttime, which yield statistically significant random parameters. In addition, the model's results suggest that fatal and severe injury outcomes in 3-WMR crashes are affected by several attributes related to temporal characteristics (weekend, nighttime, and off-peak indicators), driver profiles (young, older aged, and speeding), posted speed limits (>70 kmph), weather conditions (raining), and crash characteristics (collision with pedestrians, trucks, or 3-WMR overturning). The present study's findings offer invaluable insights, emphasizing the significance of considering for unobserved heterogeneity in variables contributing to the injury severity of 3-WMR crashes. Moreover, in light of the findings, a set of policy implications are suggested, which will guide safety practitioners to develop more effective countermeasures to address safety issues associated with 3-WMRs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dehdan village lies downstream of Hattar Industrial Estate (HIE) that dumps industrial effluents into the nearby stream in Haripur Basin, Pakistan. In this paper, an integrated methodology such as borehole drilling, 1D and 2D geoelectrical measurements and hydrochemical anaylysis is suggested for assessing groundwater dynamics of the Dhedan area. A total of six boreholes were drilled to analyze aquifer sediments and to establish regional water table within the study area. Geoelectrical investigation emerges as an effective complementary technique that improved the data coverage and reduces the cost of borehole drilling, especially in the developing country. The geoelectrical datasets that consist of 1D and 2D sounding sites were acquired using the composite Wenner-Schlumberger configuration across the study area. The 1D-vertical electrical sounding (VES) data is utilized to infer subsurface rocks and to estimate hydraulic conductivity (S). The 2D-electrical resistivity tomographs (ERTs) each about 300 m long were also acquired across the highly contaminated Dehdan stream. Physicochemical and heavy metal analyses of twenty-three water samples collected from the stream water and the aquifer sediments were carried out to suggest potable water-quality in the region. A good correlation between the 1D resistivity data and borehole logs is established to investigate subsurface rocks down to 175 m depth. The results show presence of a shallow aquifer unit at about 17 m thick and relatively a deep aquifer layer at about 50 m depth. The hydraulic conductivity (S) identified moderate to good protective zones for contamination. The ERTs imaged contaminated highly conductive layer overlain by relatively resistive layers. Resistivity value for the highly conductive zone, about 25 m thick, is <11 Ωm. The ERT shows a localized shallow aquifer unit that is recharged by the contaminated stream water especially during rainy seasons. The 3D model based on the ERTs demonstrates that the resistivities within the low-resistivity anomaly remain unchanged and gradually increased downward. It was considered that these spatial changes in resistivities were related to dilution of stream highly-contaminated water with shallow aquifer sediments and the contamination migration downward to next aquifer unit across the stream. The hydrochemical analysis shows that four out of six analysed samples were highly polluted and the contamination level decreased at greater depths and as distance from the highly contaminated stream increases. A semi-confined to confined aquifer unit present at about 50 m depth contains relatively good quality water. This aquifer unit is highly encouraged for groundwater exploitation for human consumption. • An integrated approach to assess groundwater contamination, attributed to effluents of the Hattar Industrial Estate. • Borehole logs and geoelectrical data delineated groundwater aquifer units. • 2D ERT tomographs imaged contaminated aquifer unit. • Physiochemical and elemental analysis of water samples suggest majority samples are highly polluted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Biodiversity beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement has gained global attention since it is anticipated to be implemented in the near future. This analysis demonstrates that almost all nations have made significant efforts to complete the BBNJ Agreement. This manuscript intends to highlight the ongoing efforts of developing nations in the BBNJ discussions by utilizing a descriptive approach and concentrating specifically on Pakistan as a case study. Furthermore, the elements brought by the Asian and African groups supporting Pakistan's role are also discussed, since these groups are ambitious in obtaining an internationally legally binding instrument (ILBI). This study goes further into the views of developing country groups in all the Intergovernmental Conference sessions (IGCs) on BBNJ. The differences between developing and developed nations, such as the concept of the Common Heritage of Humankind principle (CHH), Marine Genetic Resources (MGRs), and omitting fish from the scope of the BBNJ Agreement, are examined in this paper. Pakistan's advantageous geographical position and extensive coastline have been emphasized, underscoring the significance of BBNJ for Pakistan and its proactive engagement in the discussions, particularly its representation of the Group of 77 developing nations at the United Nations (G-77). Although Pakistan initially was not actively engaging in the debates, it voiced its ambitious attitude when representing the G-77 in 2022, which was refreshing. This study reveals that while Pakistan has played a vital role in BBNJ discussions, it still requires updating its data and policy development to embrace the BBNJ Agreement effectively. Nevertheless, this disparity may be remedied via a diligent mindset and conscientious conduct. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cheap Production of bioethanol from renewable lignocellulosic waste has the imperative potential to economically cut burgeoning world dependency on fossils while reducing net emission of carbon dioxide (CO 2), a principal greenhouse gas (GHGs). This paper highlights key benefits and status of bioethanol production technologies, aiming mainly on recent developments and its key potentials in Pakistan. Most sector of Pakistan economy heavily rely on the energy and power that is being produced using traditional approaches like from oil and hydel. However, the sedimentation in dams cut-down the energy generation and overwhelmed severe energy crisis that are witnessed since last decade. Thus, Pakistan must go to avail alternative sources of energy like hydro, biomass and solar so that energy security can be ensured to recover the tremendous loss of economy. Renewable biomass is abundantly available in Pakistan which can be used to produce bioethanol and electricity. Currently, 22 distilleries are producing the ethanol from sugar cane bagasse and out of these only 8 distillation units are producing motor fuel grade ethanol. The current bioethanol production of country is about 403,500 tons/year along with 2423 tons of biodegradable waste available in major cities. In addition, Pakistan produces 6.57, 0.5, 0.66, and 2.66 million tons of sugarcane, corn, rice, and wheat straw per annum, respectively. This biomass can produce 1.6 million liters of bioethanol which can produce approximately 38% of Pakistan's electricity annually. Despite having large potential, Pakistan is still producing a few volumes of ethanol from sugarcane bagasse. The production of bioethanol can be boosted using (I) pretreatment of agricultural biomass by alkali (II) enzymatic and bacteria-based hydrolysis of the biomass (III) post-hydrolysis using pressurized steam above 100 °C (IV) Fermentation of the biomass@ 7–10 h and (V) and (VI) distillation of bioethanol. This study recommends (1) increase R&D capacities mainly in the west and central regions of Pakistan, (2) initiate mega-projects to promote integrated bio-ethanol production at agriculture farms by providing 1/3 subsides, (3) purchase of bioethanol directly from the major agricultural farms, (4) produce bioethanol related manpower from the key research institutes as specified in this study. • Upgradation of inefficient biogas to bioethanol can solve energy crisis. • Study witnessed huge potential of bioethanol (403,500 tons/year) from cheap biomass. • Key technical barriers in the green development of ethanol is emphasized fact-sheet. • Study implementation will replace inefficient biomass burn into ethanol combustion. • Study will definitively help policy makers to sustain lives of Pakistan people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• COVID-19 is a threat to recent progress in expanding access to quality early childhood education ECE in low- and middle- income countries. • Governments in the study did not prioritize ECE in their responses to the pandemic. • Some conditions that previously helped ECE advance on national agendas worsened. • Lessons from this analysis have implications for prioritizing ECE postpandemic. Despite strong evidence of its importance to the welfare of children and societies, early childhood education has been comparatively neglected as a policy priority both before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. This paper seeks to understand what factors have contributed to the relative lack of priority for early childhood education in distance learning and school reopening plans by applying a political prioritization framework to the pandemic context in 4 low- and middle-income countries: Ethiopia, Jamaica, Liberia, and Pakistan (Punjab Province). Some aspects of the pre-COVID-19 status quo which disfavored early childhood education have continued, including a lack of cohesive support from civil society and a greater focus by international partners on norm promotion and technical assistance than financing. In other respects, the pandemic put early childhood education at an even greater disadvantage. These include perceptions that early childhood education is less suited to distance delivery than other levels of education, concerns about young children's ability to comply with health protocols, and competition with high-stakes examinations for education ministries' attention. Previous country experience with pandemics (in Liberia) and a strong coordinating entity (in Jamaica) were mitigating factors. These results point to an urgent need to elevate priority for early childhood education in more normal times and to capture the lessons of COVID-19 to improve the resilience of early childhood education in future crises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This paper investigates asymmetric effects of renewable and nuclear energy on economic growth by extending production function along with labor and capital for Pakistan's economy. Paper utilises non-linear autoregressive distributed lag model with the yearly data of 1990–2016 to extract reliable facts. Results reveal the presence of asymmetric co-integration among variables. Results offer evidence of positive and negative shocks to renewable and nuclear energy variables will have positive impact on economic growth. Further, capital formation contributes positive to economic growth. Addition to this, two more conventional models have been constructed to investigate asymmetric impacts of economic growth, oil prices, oil consumption and CO 2 emissions on nuclear and renewable energy consumption. Results reveal that oil consumption leads to a negative impact on renewable energy consumption while it is neutral for nuclear energy consumption. Oil price was having neutral impact on renewable and nuclear energy consumption. Policy suggestions are given based on empirical results. Highlights • Renewable energy consumption has asymmetric positive affect on economic growth. • Nuclear energy consumption shows a positive and asymmetric linkages with economic growth. • Oil consumption has negative impact on renewable energy consumption. • Oil price shows neutral impact on renewable and nuclear energy consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The adoption of sustainable residue management practices is considered as a cleaner production option for the agricultural sector. However, limited information is available from Pakistan on the current use and adoption of sustainable residue management practices and different socio-physiological factors are involved in the process of shaping farmers' intentions. Based on the protection motivation theory framework, this study analyzes the socio-physiological factors affecting the farmers' intentions on adopting sustainable crop residue management practices. The paper is based on cross-sectional data collected from 420 farmers across Punjab and employs a structural equation modeling to explore research objectives. The research findings show that farmers, who perceive high risk from crop residue burning or who are aware of its negative consequences, are more intended to adopt sustainable crop residue management practices. However, their adoption intentions do have significant relationship with the self-efficacy implying the lack of resources, time, knowledge, competency, and skills as constraints limiting the adoption of cleaner production strategies. Further, the research findings also confirm the positive and significant role of habits of farmers in shaping their intentions to use sustainable crop residue management practices. In addition to this, the paper found a positive and significant role in social interaction, sources of information and access to extension services in shaping farmers' decision regarding sustainable residue management practices at the farm level. The research findings suggest enhancing awareness to highlight the negative impacts of crop residue burning and to train them regarding useful and sustainable crop residue management options that are not only cleaner production options but also generate economic benefits for farmers. • Socio-psychological factors affecting farmers' SCRMPs intentions are assessed. • Perceived high risks of residue burning are more intended to adopt SCRMPs. • Socio-cognitive attributes significantly influence farmers' adoption intentions. • Farmers' intentions can improve by promoting ecological benefits of these practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Stackelberg-Nash and Cournot-Nash games are applied to gain optimum strategies. • Uneven precipitation and stream inflow are characterized as fuzzy random variables. • An interactive-dynamic-programming-based genetic algorithm (IDP-GA) is designed. • An emergency response mechanism based on different climatic scenarios is developed. Increasing water demand aggravates water scarcity in water-scarce regions (e.g., India, Pakistan, and China), where uneven precipitation increases the risk of maintaining sustainable eco-economic development. Ignoring precipitation's effects leads to misguided policy recommendations that either deplete or underuse basin water resources. Therefore, this paper highlights the concept of uneven precipitation and uncertain stream inflow based on scenario analysis. Within a river basin, the regional authority and subarea managers both have water allocation and reallocation privileges. Motivated by sustainable development of water resource management systems, we argue that regional authorities should focus on alleviating the contradiction between supply and demand, and then seeking an optimum allocation strategy to ensure societal and economic benefits for its subareas, from which the subareas can provide reasonable reaction strategies. Authorities dominate water transactions between subareas involved in water rights distribution. This paper proposes a multi-objective multi-stage Stackelberg-Nash-Cournot (m2SNC) game model to cope with conflicts between regional authorities and subarea managers concerning multiple activities. An interactive-dynamic-programming-based genetic algorithm (IDP-GA) is designed to simulate the policies needed for the optimum allocation of water resources under various climate scenarios. The significant stress caused by unsustainable water resource allocation has been a perplexing problem for Sancha Lake, an important area in the southeast basin of the Dujiangyan Irrigation System in China. To identify the tradeoffs among stakeholders, we apply the proposed model to this basin. To gain further insight into climate change and water usage sustainability, we simulate the varying spatial and seasonal distribution of stream inflow based on historical climate data and propose different water management strategies for normal, slight drought, moderate drought, and serious drought conditions. This creates an emergency response cooperative mechanism based on different climate scenarios for developing countries that need to cope with water deficiency and uncertain situations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a financial heuristic named as Pleonexia rule which is applied to Pakistan Stock Exchange. Pleonexia is a Greek word which means 'Greed for wealth or material possession or Avaricious'. Applying Pleonexia rule to stock exchange, if investors experience upward movements in the market and they want to get higher returns then they must keep investing in the same stock portfolios with the same pace. There is no need to get impatient and overly avaricious and, in turn, alter the original investment strategy. This rule is developed by using performance measure, that is, Sharpe ratio. The rule is developed in two steps. In first step, probabilities are checked by forecasting. In second step, these probabilities are used for the development and testing of Pleonexia rule. The data for the empirical analysis is taken from Pakistan stock exchange on monthly basis from 2000–2018. The results show that there is no difference between estimated and actual values for all classes of stock portfolios as shown in the first step of methodology. Furthermore, this rule is applicable for all three classes of stock portfolios which are growth, risk and value. The findings show that investors have on average 86% chances of getting gains up to the benchmark but in future they may be able to beat the market, thereby also achieving the level of healthy appetite. These chances are quite optimistic for developing countries and investor need to vigilant and remember 'Don't let the Greed catch you'. • This paper presents a financial heuristic named as Pleonexia rule. • This rule is developed by using performance measures i.e. Sharpe ratio. • This rule is empirically applied to an emerging stock market of Pakistan. • This rule is found to be valid and is applicable to all three classes of stock portfolios i.e. growth, risk and value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is considered as an excellent breakthrough for improving the economic and security situation in the region. The estimated worth of CPEC is 62$ billion which is comprising of 49 developmental projects. China-Pakistan Fiber Optic Project (CPFOP) is one of the core projects among these, which will deliver safe route of voice traffic between both countries. CPFOP is greatly beneficial in terms of enhanced security and revenue generation. Currently, Pakistan's international connectivity is via submarine cables. CPFOP will provide an alternative route for international telecom traffic and also assist in achieving the rapidly growing internet traffic demand in Pakistan. It is estimated that 17 million people will get benefit from this project. However, every project has some undesirable impacts. The aim of this research paper is twofold; 1st to trace out the pros and cons of CPFOP. 2ndly, performing a risk assessment of CPFOP by using Fuzzy VIKOR technique. This approach will help in prioritizing a list of failure modes of Fiber Optic Cable (FOC). Lastly, this paper will help authorities for optimizing and safeguarding national interest in the wake of CPFOP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Start of Cooperation between reparian will be resulted from parallel effort on trust and capacity building. • Afghanistan current commitment and political-well in transboundary WM is a window of opportunity for its co-riparian. • Role of international facilitator/mediator for transformation process is considered vital. • The project-by-project approach to negotiations are deadlocked in the basin. Abstract Managing water resource systems usually involves conflicts. Water recognizes no borders, defining the global geopolitics of water conflicts, cooperation, negotiations, management, and resource development. Negotiations to develop mechanisms for two or more states to share an international watercourse involve complex networks of natural, social and political system (Islam and Susskind, 2013). The Kabul River Basin presents unique circumstances for developing joint agreements for its utilization, rendering moot unproductive discussions of the rights of upstream and downstream states based on principles of absolute territorial sovereignty or absolute territorial integrity (McCaffrey, 2007). This paper analyses the different stages of water conflict transformation between Afghanistan and Pakistan. It first examines historical disputes between the upstream and downstream riparians, revolving around contending rights claims, resulting in zero-sum confrontations with one party's loss as another's gain, possibly ending in confrontation. The paper then formulates a decision support tool, a mechanism for transforming conflict into cooperation, and concludes by introducing practical methods for identifying basin needs and sharing benefits, enabling riparians to negotiate a win-win process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Gemstones and (re)production of the tainted image of post-conflict locations. • Gemstone origin as a major value determinant. • Swat emerald and post-conflict development opportunities and place promotion. • Preventing future conflicts in Swat through fostering economic resilience. Abstract This paper critically examines the social dynamics of emerald mining in the Swat Valley and its impact on the broader gemstone processing sector in Pakistan. In particular, it pays attention to problematizing the existing structure of artisanal, small-scale emerald mining, and its fragmented supply chain that grapples with a branding stigma of gem origin. It also considers an export-led beneficiation industry within Swat to generate sustainable livelihoods and help prevent future conflicts through fostering economic resilience. The paper emerges with inferences that while the literature on colored gemstones is increasingly critical of fragmented supply chains, it should also consider the role that gemstones can play, as a constitutive and representational force, toward (re)production and (re)engineering of the "tainted" image of post-conflict locations. This is particularly the case because gemstone origin is a major factor in value determination. Areas of conflict that have previously caused negative branding of gemstones can later be transformed into post-conflict development opportunities and lead to positive branding. Approaches for pursuing such a strategy are explored in the context of Pakistan's emerald industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pakistan is a developing country characterized by a growing industrialization, which is the major cause of environmental pollution in the country. To control the significant increase in pollution a green incentive has started, aiming to moderate the adverse effects of environmental pollution. Thus, Green Supply Chain Management (GSCM) plays an important role in influencing the total environment impact of any organizations. This study considers ten Pakistani industries that have implemented GSCM practices. The Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory technique (DEMATEL) is used to find influential factors in selecting GSCM criteria. The results show that organizational involvement is the most important dimension useful to implement GSCM practices. In addition, commitment from senior managers, ISO 14000 certification of suppliers and recycle of waste heat are considered significant factors. The paper also signifies the casual relationship among the dimensions and the factors in the form of diagraphs. The main management implication of the paper is to help decision makers to focus on the critical dimensions/factors in order to implement the GSCM practices more effectively in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The manufacturing of glass packaging is an energy and resource intensive process and the demand for glass packaging is increasing because of rising world population, especially in the developing countries. However, although a significant amount of glass packaging is produced in developing countries, there is limited research focused on the environmental impact assessment and analysis of the glass manufacturing activities. Thus, in order to fill this research gap, this paper reports a comprehensive life cycle assessment (LCA) for the manufacturing of glass packaging in Pakistan. The LCA was conducted for three different types of glass (amber, flint and green) packaging solutions. The study was based on cradle-to-gate perspective, while considering 1-ton of glass produced as the functional unit. The primary data were collected from a well-known glass industry located in one of the dedicated industrial zones in Pakistan. SimaPro V 9.2. was used as the software tool and environmental impacts were quantified at midpoint and endpoint levels using ReCiPe 2016 method. The results indicated that extraction and processing of raw materials, and the plant-based glass production process cause worst impacts on the environment. More specifically, the consumption of natural gas for glass melting and the electricity from the national grid are the most contributing elements at the plant level. At midpoint level, comparatively green glass has the highest impact in various impact categories, such as global warming, fresh water ecotoxicity, marine ecotoxicity, etc. At endpoint level, human health is mainly impacted among various areas of protection. Overall, green glass remains the dreadful option for human health in comparison with other glass types. Alternative scenarios were also generated for all three packaging solutions by changing the energy-mix, especially to see the difference in greenhouse gas emissions. The study also outlines various important implications. As this is the first such study, it may be used as a benchmark for further environmental impact assessment studies for glass packaging industry, especially in developing countries. • This paper focuses on the environmental impacts of manufacturing of various glass packaging solutions. • Raw materials extraction, and plant-based glass melting cause worst impacts on the environment. • The human health is mainly impacted among various areas of protection. • Overall, the green glass remains the dreadful option for human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid urbanization in Pakistan requires new public infrastructures, which necessitates land acquisitions. However, Land Acquisition Act, 1894 (LAA, 1894) is primitive, recessive, complex, and prone to land conflicts, requiring systematic research exploring the logic of the legal conduct. This paper converts LAA, 1894 into an extensive-form game to explain the logic of land acquisition conflicts in Pakistan, as incumbents interact strategically. The Nash equilibrium (NE) of the extensive-form game suggests Land Acquisition Collector has an absolute advantage over settlers, reasoned by flawed compensation assessment. Thus, a bad win-win situation induces illegitimate behavior, extending the paper to Artificial Price Hike and Corruption-based game models. The mixed-strategy NE of both models suggests that illegitimate behaviors remain unchecked because of the high litigation costs, lack of transparency, the informality of land, and insufficient cadastral information. Finally, the models are calibrated with current land acquisition conflicts and legal precedents in the study area. This paper provides generalized interactive game models applicable to study the logic of land conflicts amid legal and policy implementation and suggests policies to improve the land administration and legal system to manage conflicts. • Extensive form game explains the interaction under Land Acquisition Act 1894, resulting in land acquisition conflicts. • Eminent Domain rationalizes dispossession and forced eviction for public purpose. • For profit-based ventures, the government's extended negotiation process is prone to objections by settlers. • Nash equilibrium exhibits a bad win-win situation exacerbates land acquisition conflicts. • Primitive, weak and informal legal and administrative system of provokes and sustains the illegitimate behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porosity estimation is one of the essential issues in oil and natural gas industries to evaluate the reservoir characteristics properly. Therefore, it is imperative to predict porosity with the optimum way to reduce logging tests. In this paper, fuzzy logic (FL) and neural networks (NNs) are considered effective approaches to predict the Lower Goru sand reservoir's porosity curve. The input dataset for the study contained four known logs, gamma ray (GR), neutron porosity (NPHI), density (RHOB), and sonic (DT) of five wells drilled. For the fuzzy logic model, ten bins were used. The closeness of fit (Cfit) curves were computed using the most likely and second most likely curves. The weighted average final probability Pi, or the most likely solution, was also calculated. The curve histogram distribution and set of curve bin distribution cross plots were built using a fuzzy model. In the fuzzy logic model, the Gaussian membership function provided the optimum match for the examined geophysical log data. Fuzzy logic models indicate Cfit values ranging from 94 to 100% for Sawan-01, Sawan-02, Sawan-03, Sawan-07, and Sawan-08, with standard deviations of 1.248, 1.241, 1.254, 1.336, and 1.374, respectively. The neural networks model was trained using the backpropagation (BP) algorithm. The neural networks model has a Cfit_nn of 88%–100% across five wells with standard deviations of 0.016, 0.014, 0.015, 0.017, and 0.018. The results show that the predicted modeling evaluations using fuzzy logic and neural networks techniques fit the geophysical log data quite well. The multiple linear regression (MLR) assessments were conducted using the same geophysical log datasets of five studied boreholes for comparison. The coefficients of determination (R2) for the fuzzy logic (PHIT_ml) and neural networks (PHIT_nn) models were 0.960127, and 0.973039, respectively, whereas the values of the PHIT curve for multiple linear regression (PHIT_mlr) 0.926329. The high R2 values show that fuzzy logic and neural networks are more effective methods for PHIT curve prediction than the multiple linear regression approach. The relevant correlation was derived by comparing synthetic log values to actual log values. The evaluations between recorded and predicted values applying the two distinct approaches fuzzy logic and neural networks revealed that both are effective at synthesizing PHIT logs. The confirmation of this efficiency was further verified by the low values obtained in the root mean square error (RMSE) analysis. The study conducted on the Sawan Gas Field wells revealed that both fuzzy logic and neural networks are reliable approaches for predicting the PHIT curve. By using a composite of GR, RHOB, NPHI, and DT logs, these techniques can provide a realistic fit for both actual and synthesized PHIT curves. The findings of this study suggest that the implementation of these methods can contribute to the improvement of hydrocarbon exploration and production in the region by reducing uncertainty in predicting the PHIT curve. Moreover, the methods used in this study have the potential for wider application beyond the Sawan Gas Field. These methods can be applied globally to predict the PHIT curve and evaluate the reservoir prospects. The successful application of fuzzy logic and neural networks in this paper provides a solid foundation for future research on using machine learning techniques in reservoir characterization and modeling. • FL and NNs showed potential in assessing complex conditions for porosity prediction in the Lower Goru sand reservoir. • FL and NNs provide better results than MLR approach. • In the FL model, the Gaussian membership function provided the optimum match for the examined geophysical log data. • FL and NNs effectively synthesize PHIT logs based on evaluations of real and predicted values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electric power shortfalls driven by inadequate generation, electrification, and lack of clarity on the planning side have worsened Pakistan's power crises that deformed economic growth. This study focuses on the estimation of the electricity supply and demand in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) perspective and on the main reasons that motivate a transition to green resources. This paper estimated the demand-supply gap (1990–2015) and forecasted it (2016–2035), including CPEC projects using the System Dynamics model. The results show that the power demand will be met by 2021, fact highlighted also by a battery of robustness tests. We find that the CPEC efforts will increase energy growth from 4.5% (1990–2015) to 14.6% (2016–2035). The capacity growth will increase from 4.9% to 12.3% during 2016–2035. Moreover, the current renewable energy production and investment (Wind & Solar Power) will not help achieve policy targets. A total investment of $4806.69 million is required to meet policy targets, while a value of $57,683 million is needed for a complete conversion to green energy. The study highlights the challenges on the green energy path and discusses policies needed to overcome these problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The magnetic susceptibility of the loess-paleosol sequence is considered a significant indicator for recording paleoclimate, and the relationship is different between magnetic susceptibility and climate variation in diverse regions. A deep analysis of the composition, content, and evolution mechanism of magnetic minerals is helpful to enhance our understanding of magnetic signals in different regions. This paper presents a systematic study of environmental magnetism and geochemical elements in the loess-paleosol sequence of the Attock (ATT) area in the Peshawar Basin, northern Pakistan, exploring the significance and limitation of magnetic susceptibility as a proxy index of paleoclimate and the variation mechanism of magnetic susceptibility. The results showed that: 1) the ATT section had a magnetic mineral composition similar to that of the Chinese Loess Plateau; however, the contents of different minerals were distinguishable. The loess layer contained a specific amount of magnetite and maghemite and a handful of goethite and hematite. Additionally, the content of soft magnetic minerals was relatively higher than that of paleosol; the paleosol contained maghemite and nearly no magnetite. Furthermore, it contained more hematite and goethite, and the hard magnetic and paramagnetic minerals were dominant; 2) the effective humidity of the pedogenic environment in the ATT section fluctuated around the magnetic susceptibility wetting critical value F (B–C region), resulting in a poor relationship between magnetic susceptibility and climate; 3) Rb/Sr, K/Na, the coefficient of eluviation, and the content of <2 μm particles were well correlated with the stratum and can be used as paleoclimatic variation indicators in this area. Understanding the B–C region is helpful to comprehend the complex relationship between magnetic signals and climate in some areas and better interpret the environmental information carried by magnetic signals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Women's role in agriculture is widely reported to be essential; despite this, women's role in the wheat-sector is under-researched. Feminist standpoint theory is applied in analyzing 73 documents on women's role in agriculture from 1990 until 2016 to answer the following questions: How does the world look, and operate, for males and females in wheat growing households? What do we know about social relationships and mediating processes (i.e., social factors mediating men's and women's access to resources and activities) that exist in the prime wheat growing regions in Pakistan? The paper highlights a knowledge gap in relation to the life histories, local experiences, as well as unofficial and informal networks of small farmers in general, and of poor and marginalized women in particular. This neglect of rural subjects is a missed opportunity to learn and to engage in improved program design that contributes to enhanced food security and resilience in rural communities. The paper is relevant to development professionals and agriculture researchers and proposes further research questions on topics that appear to have an influence on women's role in wheat farming and food systems and women's ability to be successful in securing a wheat-based livelihood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recent global energy crisis has provoked a need to explore alternate energy sources including run-of-the-river hydropower projects. To derive maximum payback for a given investment, finding the most advantageous siting of power plants is imperative. If a selection of potential sites misses some of the apparently indistinct sites with significant power potential, there is a chance of acquiring only partial benefits out of these investments. A review of the existing methods for evaluating power potential of a river is discussed in this paper with their limitations along with a new proposed approach. The new approach can be used to evaluate different installation schemes along a river to assess run-of-the-river hydropower potentials using geospatial data techniques to select sites exhibiting higher total hydropower potential. The case study of Kunhar River, located in the northern part of Pakistan, presents the applicability of the approach. Open source Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission (ASTER)’s digital elevation model (DEM) and regional hydrologic gauged data are used for identifying the best locations for hydropower plants, demonstrating this approach is substantially more cost effective and robust compared to other field based assessment. Replicating the proposed approach for other locations is easy following the step-by-step method presented in this paper and giving consideration to the limitations described. This study may provide guidelines for the development of cost-effective and energy efficient hydropower projects. The use of this approach is most advantageous in the preliminary assessment phase of a project to narrow the scope of the detailed study focusing only on the higher potential sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The world is moving toward renewable rich electricity generation systems. Pakistan being the sixth most populous country in the world and having median age of 21 years requires extensive resources for the next couple of decades to fulfill its energy requirements. Punjab is the largest province of Pakistan with 60% of total population and consumes about 80% of the electricity. The province does not have a lot of hydro and wind potential, but it has tremendous opportunity to utilize solar energy to fulfill its energy needs. In this paper, we explore the solar energy production possibilities in the province. Our objective in this paper is to find the best locations to install utility-scale solar power plants to fulfill 30% of energy needs by 2030. In addition to the technical feasibility of solar PV power plants, we also look at the economic aspects of such plants. To this end, we look at the complete life cycle of a solar PV power plant. Using data from an existing solar PV power plant we derive Profitability Index (PI) of various possible locations. According to our results, the transmission line losses range between 0.7% and 12.2% depending on the load and length of the transmission lines. Using data from transmission line losses the PI of potential utility-scale solar PV sites ranges between −9.11% and 69.65% based on various economic factors. These results provides detailed information on the best places to establish utility-scale power plants from technical as well as economic perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates 12 major airports in Pakistan for potential cost inefficiencies. We identify inefficiencies by benchmarking the productive performance of airports using Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) and data for 2012. To improve the ability of DEA to differentiate performance levels, we impose restrictions on the possible weights of inputs and outputs in the DEA procedure. The definition of these weight restrictions is based on additional information on feasible production trade-offs and relative input prices. To the best of our knowledge, this paper provides the first application of predefined weight restrictions in a DEA analysis of airport efficiency. The results suggest that there are cost inefficiencies at several airports, which are mainly caused by overstaffing and overinvestment in capacity. Furthermore, we find that the operational scale of most airports is inefficiently small, so that increases in traffic will result in declining unit costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to establish the key role of power and legitimacy attributes in effective community participation in post-disaster reconstruction (PDR) projects. Design/methodology/approach – The research applies a qualitative research approach in conjunction with a case study method, using semi-structured interviews and purposive sampling techniques. The principal source of data were semi-structured interviews of affected community members and other stakeholders of a post-natural disaster reconstruction project initiated in the aftermath of 2005 devastating earthquake in Pakistan. The interviews were undertaken between October and December 2016. Findings – Participation of affected community is significant for the success of a PDR projects; however effective participation cannot be ensured without empowerment and legitimization. In context of post disaster reconstruction; both, power and legitimacy attributes have a direct effect on effective participation of the community. Originality/value – This paper has explored the relationship of stakeholder’s attributes with participation and have also proposed an attribute model for future PDR projects. Adoption of attribute model will enhance the chances of success of future PDR projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes probabilistic seismic hazard assessment (PSHA) incorporating site effects for a deep soil site in Pakistan. Bedrock hazard is computed in FRISK88M using a logic tree approach. Probabilistic site response analysis (PSRA) employs Monte Carlo simulations to account for uncertainty in the soil profile. Site-specific amplifications are derived via regression of equivalent linear site response analysis using STRATA. By incorporating site amplifications, rock ground models are transformed into site-specific models; subsequently, we performed soil PSHA in FRISK88M. To assess the contribution and uncertainty of individual input parameters, sensitivity analysis is required. In this study, sensitivity analysis of logic tree nodes quantifies the uncertainty contributions of input parameters in terms of spectral periods and return periods. The analysis revealed that hypocentral depth distribution and ground motion prediction equations are very high sensitivity (>35%). The b-value distribution is high sensitivity (>25-35%). The magnitude distribution is medium sensitivity (>15-25%). The a-value distribution and source mechanism are low sensitivity (>5-15%). Recurrence methods are insensitive (≤5%) to hazard. • Seismic hazard calculation using FRISK88M Suite by applying rigorous logic tree. • 1D equivalent linear SRA for amplification factors estimation utilizing STRATA. • Transformation to site-specific GMPEs by incorporating amplification function. • Compute the Soil PSHA using FRISK88M Suite by applying site-specific GMPEs. • Sensitivity analysis of parameters regarding spectral periods and return periods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The United Nations has declared its latest climate report a 'code red,' sounding the alarm and prompting a global call for scientists and policymakers to adopt comprehensive, systems-wide integrated strategies for promoting sustainable life on Earth. The need for collaborative and holistic approaches for the transformation of cement production into a socio-ecologically sustainable industrial segment had never been more imperative. This paper rigorously evaluates the parameters and alternatives for the sustainable transformation of Pakistan's cement industry. Economic, environmental, and social parameters are explored and screened using multiple methodologies. Real-world data collected from the operating cement plants in Pakistan are analyzed using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Grey Relational Analysis (GRA). The consolidated list of sustainability criteria and alternatives is evaluated using the Multi Actor Multi Criteria Analysis (MAMCA) framework, which incorporates the involvement of both local and international stakeholders for prioritization of the transformation goals. Data analytic results reveal that carbon emissions have a strong degree of statistical association with production ingredients such as SiO2, Insoluble Residue (IR), Al2O3, and Fe2O3. Although there are a few interesting variations in the priorities computed from the recorded perspectives of different stakeholders, the consensus on giving top priority to environmental parameters and the alternatives like 'Waste-heat Recovery Plants' and 'Vertical Rolling Mills' is novel and promising. By taking all the main sustainability domains into account, employing multidimensional techniques, and involving multiple stakeholder perspectives under the context of a developing country, the research outcomes of this study become highly attractive for researchers, investors, and policymakers all over the world. [Display omitted] • Parameters and Alternatives are explored for sustainable cement production. • Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Grey Relational Analysis (GRA) are applied. • Economic, Environmental, and Social parameters have been screened, and prioritized. • Multi-actor Multi-Criteria Analysis (MAMCA) is used for the stakeholder-wise ranking. • The waste heat recovery plant has received the highest ranking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global water scarcity crisis has led to increased demand for reverse osmosis (RO) desalination technology. In response to the rising global temperatures, there is a growing focus on renewable energy sources such as solar photovoltaic (PV) and wind energy to power small-scale RO plants. This paper presents a comprehensive techno-economic analysis of stand-alone photovoltaic reverse osmosis (PV-RO) systems in Pakistan. It focuses on the design and optimization of PV-RO systems for Karachi and Lahore, evaluating the systems with and without energy recovery devices. A parametric study was conducted to optimize system performance, considering various configurations. The analysis includes a comparison of costs when operating with PV, diesel, and grid power. It was found that for Karachi, a four-stage PV-RO system without an energy recovery device provides water at $1.359 per cubic meter, while in Lahore, a three-stage system with an energy recovery device achieves $1.336 per cubic meter. These systems offer significant annual savings compared to diesel-powered systems, with Karachi and Lahore saving up to $10,138 and $17,664 respectively over ten years. The findings of this study show that PV-RO systems, especially those with multiple stages and energy recovery devices, offer a cost-effective and sustainable solution for water desalination in these regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper discusses the critical importance of understanding and managing risks associated with the construction of pre-stressed girder bridges. As a result, it aims to assess, analyze, and propose strategies to mitigate various risk factors contributing to delays and schedule overruns in bridge construction projects. These risk risks through literature review and interviews with stakeholders engaged in bridge projects in Pakistan, highlighting the need for activity-specific risk analysis rather than general assumptions. The findings show that 74% of the identified risks can be effectively managed through suitable risk management strategies. Additionally, it was suggested that 17% of the risks should be transferred, while 9% of the identified risks must be retained without any mitigation measures. This survey not only confirmed risks already identified in existing literature but also brought to light new risks previously unnoticed. Moreover, the results highlighted significant differences in risk severity among various project activities. This underscores the necessity for conducting activity-specific risk analysis instead of depending on generalized assumptions for the entire bridge construction project. Among all bridge construction activities, piling emerged as the most high-risk activity, while girder installation was deemed the least risky. Based on this assessment, a set of guidelines aim to mitigate these risks and serve as a reference for minimizing schedule overruns in bridge construction, providing valuable insights for bridge constructors to effectively manage risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The steepest sidewall (with slopes of 25.75° and 40.47°) of E Canyon in the eastern Makran accretionary prism was found. • The segmentation features of sedimentation and erosion of E Canyon was revealed. • The evolution model of gas hydrate accumulation in the development area of E Canyon was established. Seven shelf-incising submarine canyon systems are developed in the Makran accretionary prism, offshore Pakistan. This paper uses multibeam bathymetric data and multichannel seismic profiles to study the geomorphologic and infilling characteristics of E Canyon in the east of accretionary prism. The E Canyon extends nearly north–south from the upper slope to lower slope, the bottom of the canyon is located in 1000 to 3000 m water depth, the main axis extends about 55 km, and the width varies from 5 to 9 km. The E Canyon shows U-shaped concave features in the northern cross-section view and V-shaped concave features in the southern cross-section view. Two continuous erosion pools are developed at the fifth and third ridges of the southern segment, respectively. The steepest sidewall (with slopes of 25.75° and 40.47°) of E Canyon was found near the third ridge. The filling sequence of coarse channel lags, slump debris flows, stacked channel sands and mass transported deposits and turbidite deposits from bottom to top is developed in the northern segment of the canyon. Strong erosion is developed in the southern part of the canyon and there is no sedimentation inside. On the abyssal plain, the continuation of the E Canyon is clearly erosive. Our preliminary analysis shows that the factors controlling the evolution of E Canyon may include sediment gravity flow, tectonic activity, sea-level change, climate and onshore rivers activity. The correlation between evolution of E Canyon and gas hydrates was explored, and it is believed that the erosion of E Canyon plays a destructive role in hydrate accumulation. At the same time, the destruction of hydrate-bearing layer induces the escape and leakage of hydrocarbon-bearing fluid, leading to the development of pockmark on the sidewalls of E Canyon. And the evolution model of gas hydrate accumulation in the development area of E Canyon was established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Floods are a great threat to Pakistan with increasing concern. As the consequences of increased extreme weather related to climate change, Pakistan experiences severe floods almost every year. This study aims to explore and analysis the actual inundated situation, magnitude, the possible causes of the 2022 devastating floods, and future trends. We presented an enhanced nationwide flood mapping method and compared with other pixel-based image processing techniques including active contours and change detection. These algorithms were applied to Sentinel-1 Ground Range Detected (GRD) Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) imagery (10 m spatial resolution) with various land types and inundation scenarios in Pakistan, and were evaluated using other reference flood products. Accuracy evaluation analysis demonstrated that our algorithm has high robustness and accuracy, with the overall accuracy (OA) higher than 0.83 and critical success index (CSI) up to 0.91, and is suitable for automated flood monitoring in near real time. Nearly one-third of the lands were flooded in 2022, and more than half were inundated croplands. Punjab and Sindh provinces were the most severely affected regions, with the proportions of inundated area in 2022 (21.26% and 20.55%) nearly twice of that in 2010 (11.40% and 12.70%), indicating an intensified flooding trend. Analysis of possible influential factors showed that the intense and cumulative rainfall during the monsoon season (June to August) was the major cause of the 2022 flood event. Although the snow melted rapidly in June (the average change in snow depth is ∼10 mm), the overall ablation contributed insignificant amount to the flood water. The glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) induced by abnormal April–May heatwave provide water flowed into the tributaries of the Indus River, but are difficult to spread for thousands of kilometers from mountains to the plain downstream. The combination of the intrinsic arid climate and extreme floods exacerbate the already severe situation. • This paper presents an automated method based on tile thresholding and fuzzy logic. • The inundation in Punjab and Sindh in 2022 are nearly twice of that in 2010. • The cumulative rainfall is the major cause of the 2022 flood event. • The snow melting and GLOFs are likely small relative to the flood water gains. • These observations imply an intensified flooding and water cycle in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Achieving equitable development that supports climate mitigation in an uncertain future remains a daunting task, particularly for post-conflict societies. In this paper, we present results from a local stakeholder participatory scenario workshop investigating emerging priorities for anticipatory action, with respect to future climate impacts, in the vulnerable conflict-affected Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Province of Pakistan. Importantly, our findings reveal that stakeholders were less focused on addressing climate impacts, and more interested in local development initiatives to enhance tourism offerings and the regional national park network. The novelty of our work lies in the use of participatory scenarios to both initiate a process of healing and provide a forum for the co-production of future narratives focused on sustainable and inclusive development. However, this first involves mending the social fabric that ties individuals and communities together in an inclusive and informed way. As such, our work adds to the scholarship of environmental peacebuilding, creating a local context-specific knowledge base using a bottom-up approach to understand a shared future. The case study presented here highlights the perspectives of policymakers from the global south and brings local stakeholders together in a space where top-down management approaches often dominate. • Using scenarios is only one step towards providing an opportunity for healing by co-producing narratives of a local future. • Our work reflects on ways to avoid future conflict and other undesirable prospects. • Our findings highlight the need to reflect on technocratic versus political approaches to address the issue of climate change. • We add to the scholarship of environmental peacebuilding and create a localised and context-specific knowledge. • We bring stakeholders together in a space where top-down management approaches dominate in policymaking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]