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The study was conducted to compare the performance of students working in chemistry laboratory with those working in chemistry laboratory supplemented with simulations at secondary school level. The study was experimental in nature and post-test only control group design was used. The sample comprised of 55 males and 60 female students and 02 Chemistry teachers of class IX of Public schools. At the end of the treatment, practical examination was conducted on the pattern of Peshawar Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education. The scores of both control and experimental groups were compared by using independent sample t-test in three main areas i.e. written, viva voce and notebook. The result of independent sample t test of school No 1(male) indicated that there is a significance difference between the performance of control group (M=8.9, SD=2.13) and experimental group (M=10.5, SD=3.04) at a=0.05 and df=53. The result of independent sample t test of school No 2(female) indicated that there is a significance difference between the performance of control group (M=10, SD=1.91) and experimental group (M=11.7, SD=2.13) at a=0.05 and df=58. The qualitative data was collected by means of interviews from chemistry teachers. Both the interviewees were motivated and showed keen interest in the simulated software. The performance of the students of experimental groups showed improvement results in the rejection of hypotheses that there is no significant difference between the performance of students taught by conventional demonstration in laboratory and laboratory work facilitated with simulation.

Higher Education Commission (HEC) in Pakistan was established in 2002. Since its establishment, HEC has introduced many interventions and inputs in higher education and emerged a major initiative in Pakistan. Many studies about HEC initiatives were undertaken to explore improvements made by HEC interventions. No study was done to explore impact of HEC inputs on students' attitude. This study was an attempt to explore the attitudes of students towards higher education in changed context in public universities of Pakistan. The sample of the study was the students enrolled in teacher education programs in different public universities of Pakistan. Four universities were conveniently selected including Institute of Education and Research (IER), University of the Punjab, the pioneer institute in teacher education. Self-reporting method was adopted to facilitate the respondents to reflect their attitudes regarding higher education. An instrument named "Students' Attitude Scale" was administered by the author. The purpose of the study was to explore impact of different factors on students' attitudes towards higher education, impact of program inputs on students' attitudes towards higher education and find out the difference between the attitudes of male and female students towards higher education. Independent sample t-test was applied to find out the difference between male and female responses. This test indicates that there is no difference in attitudes towards higher education between male and female students of different universities. The results of the study suggest how different inputs and contexts makes positive attitudes towards higher education in different universities. The findings of the study have implications for teacher educators and curriculum developers how to enhance attitudes towards higher education by providing appropriate inputs. This study also has implications for policy makers at HEC and university administration to plan need based inputs to make conducive environment for shaping students' positive attitudes towards higher education.

Background: This study aimed to determine the clinical burden, spatial dynamics, and associated risk factors of Plasmodium infection among the natives of Chakwal, Punjab Pakistan from 2019 to 2023 to guide targeted screening and treatment interventions. Method: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted using primary and secondary data sources. Participants were recruited using a multi-stage cluster sampling by taking informed consent for the primary data sources. Whereas a secondary dataset of Plasmodium infection was obtained from the database of surveyed hospitals after ethical consideration. All the participants living in the study area for at least 3 months were included, while patients with chronic illness were excluded. Sociodemographic and environmental data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Plasmodium infection was diagnosed using microscopy, rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs), and nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) as the reference standard. A Zero-inflated negative binomial logistic regression model and interpolation of malaria distribution to environmental variables were employed to determine the association and spatiotemporal patterns of malaria in Chakwal. Results: Among the 2457 participants, the prevalence of Plasmodium vivax infection (99%) was significantly higher than P. falciparum (0.8%) and mixed infection (0.2%). Females had a higher infection rate than males and the infection rate was higher in adults (21–40 years) and children (0–20 years). Age category (61–100), P. vivax species, temperature, rainfall, monsoon season, and mixed infection factors were significantly associated (p < 0.05) with increased Plasmodium infection risk. Geospatial mapping indicated potential malaria hotspots in Sarkal Kasar, Chak Baili, Mulkwal, Chohan, and other close areas of the Potohar region. Conclusion: The clinical burden of P. vivax was the highest during monsoon season in Chakwal. Age, gender, climatic factors, and mixed infection were significant risk factors for malaria transmission in this region. Targeted screening and treatment strategies should prioritize identified hotspots and high-risk groups to effectively control malaria in Potohar region of Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of the study is to identify the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats in higher education regarding distance learning system in Pakistan. Design/methodology/approach: A mixed-method research design was used in this study. The population of the study was all the previous students of research work and all the teachers of these students working at MPhil and PhD level in AIOU in Pakistan. Stratified random sampling technique was used in this study. This study used the questionnaire and interview technique to collect data. Data of questionnaire was in numbers and data of interview was narrative. So it was the need of the study that a mixed-method approach, i.e. both quantitative and qualitative techniques should be used in this study. Findings: The findings of the study show that AIOU has also strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats in higher education related to distance education like all the formal and distance universities of Pakistan and World. This study reflected that AIOU is a great blessing for those who cannot acquire their education regularly because of financial/family problems or they are job holders. But this study also described that at higher level students are facing a lot of problems especially there is a delay in research process and provision of no scholarships to students. The teachers have a low salary package than the other public universities of Pakistan and a lot of responsibilities to attend meetings, seminars, conferences and workshops. So they have less time for research work. And AIOU provides them fewer opportunities to go abroad for further studies or to attend conferences/seminars. This study recommended that there should be adopted such policies in AIOU that students could get their study materials, assignments duration, workshops schedule and degrees in time, the teachers of the concerned departments should allow to take more in numbers the students under their supervision, the pay package for the teachers working at MPhil and PhD level should be raised and the opportunities for the faculty members to go. Research limitations/implications: This study is limited to analyze the higher education system especially the distance learning system in Pakistan. Practical implications: This study has indicated the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats in higher education which the AIOU is facing recently and the policymakers can develop plans/strategies to make better the distance learning system especially at higher level in Pakistan. This study can be helpful for the stakeholders who are interested in distance learning system. This study was conducted at higher level in the distance learning system but it can open the ways for the other researchers to conduct research in other disciplines related to distance education, i.e. at matric level, F.A/F.SC, B.Sc programs, Master level and M.Sc programs at AIOU. Social implications: Through this study, it can be acknowledged how the AIOU is providing the opportunity of education to a large number of people in the society who cannot study regularly in the formal institutions especially those who are job holders, some financial problems and women who have some family problems and above one million people are benefitting from AIOU in Pakistan and world. Originality/value: This study is original in this respect because the data has been collected from the participants, i.e. students and teachers of AIOU. And it has also great value because this is the first SWOT analysis which has been conducted in this university to examine the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats facing AIOU at present time. This study can also become a base for the stakeholders', i.e. policymakers, administration and higher education depart. of Pakistan in developing strategies to improve and amend the distance learning system of Pakistan especially at higher level in AIOU.

Due to industrialization and urbanization, the use of detergents inadvertently led to contamination of aquatic environments, thus posing potential threat to aquatic organisms and human health. One of the main components of detergents is linear alkylbenzene sulfonate (LAS), which can cause toxic effects on living organisms, particularly aquatic life in the environment. In this study, floating treatment wetlands (FTWs) mesocosms were developed and augmented with LAS-degrading bacteria. The plant species, Brachiaria mutica (Para grass), was vegetated to establish FTWs and bacterial consortium (1:1:1:1) of Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain PJRS20, Bacillus sp. BRRH60, Acinetobacter sp. strain CYRH21, and Burkholderia phytofirmans Ps.JN was augmented (free or immobilized) in these mesocosms. Results revealed that the FTWs removed LAS from the contaminated water and their augmentation with bacteria slightly increased LAS removal during course of the experiment. Maximum reduction in LAS concentration (94%), chemical oxygen demand (91%), biochemical oxygen demand (93%), and total organic carbon (91%) was observed in the contaminated water having FTWs augmented with bacterial consortium immobilized on polystyrene sheet. This study highlights that the FTWs supported with immobilized bacteria on polystyrene sheets can provide an eco-friendly and sustainable solution for the remediation of LAS-bearing water, especially for developing countries like Pakistan. This pilot-scale study provided insights to resolve the detergent-contaminated wastewater issue, using floating treatment wetlands (FTWs) augmented with bacteria. The FTWs augmented with bacteria immobilized on a polystyrene sheet and vegetated with Brachiaria mutica led to high degradation of LAS, a toxic compound of detergent, from the contaminated water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic has posed some serious economic challenges to the livestock sector globally. Reportedly, the COVID-19 related restrictions have resulted in decreased demand as well as prices for dairy products, resulting in substantial losses to the dairy sector. The present study was designed to investigate the COVID-19 effect on dairy farmers and the provision of public sector veterinary services in Pakistan. A cross-sectional tele-survey was conducted in two regions of Pakistan, i.e., Bahawalpur Division and Karachi dairy colonies. A total of 134 veterinary professionals and 218 farms (126 from Bahawalpur Division, 92 from Karachi) were interviewed using a standardized questionnaire. The collected information was analyzed using SPSS and Epi Info version 7.2. Majority of farmers from Bahawalpur Division reported a decrease in milk demand of 64% (81) after onset of COVID-19. Similarly, 88% (81) of the dairy colonies in Karachi also experienced the lockdown effect on sale of milk. Primarily, compromised prices, lower sales and sometimes complete lack of milk sales were the reasons for economic losses in Bahawalpur Division and Karachi region respectively. Furthermore, 16% of farmers reported selling animals, 14% stated considering to winding up business entirely, and 20% laid off employees. Merely 13% use their savings to cover their losses. Farmers unable to sell their entire milk yield used the milk to make value-added products like butter, ghee, and khoya, while other used it at home and calves' feed respectively. Farmers reported to compensating for the lower income either by taking loans, selling animals, and reducing the staff. Professionals from both regions reported compromised ability to provide veterinary services, including after-hours private practice (36%, 56%), the number of farmers visiting the veterinary hospitals (93%, 75%), and provision of (93%, 70%) extension services. However, there was a significant increase reported in telemedicine by 82% in Karachi and 63% in the Bahawalpur Division. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flooding is considered the most pervasive risk in climate hazards. Flooding causes millions of peoples displacement and raises poverty in flood affected low income communities particularly reside in most hazards prone developing countries like Pakistan. Objective of this study is to examine the association in climate change vulnerability and multidimensional poverty in two districts flood prone rural communities of Punjab, Pakistan. In this research work collected data of 480 households was used where livelihood and climate change vulnerability indices were applied for empirical estimation of climate vulnerability levels. Poverty levels were estimated through the application of multidimensional poverty index based on the initiatives of human development, Oxford poverty and United Nation Development Program. Estimates indicated almost half population of research area collapse lower than the threshold of multidimensional poverty. Rajanpur district was estimated higher intensity of poverty and higher number of population involved multidimensional poverty rather than Muzaffargarh. Moreover, Rajanpur district considered much deprived in the dimensions of poverty like living standard, health and education. Regarding climate change vulnerability Muzaffargarh lagged at the back in livelihood strategies dimensions, food, socio-demographic profile and social networks while Rajanpur considered much vulnerable in the health, financial assets and natural assets dimensions. In the overall conclusions related to flood disasters Rajanpur district more vulnerable than Muzaffargarh and study estimated significant and positive association in climate change vulnerability indices and multidimensional poverty index. Inadequate formal schooling and nonappearance of climate change vulnerability assessment in the study area more possibility of raises higher severity of multidimensional poverty. Policy concerned relevant authorities need to apply the analysis of poverty assessment about vulnerability of climate change. Formal schooling must provided to inhabited population to raising capabilities of decision-making, productivity, job opportunities, information access and level of awareness. Moreover, flood risk mitigation policy measures need to applied through flood defense and hotspots identification where poverty and flood risks occurs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Floods frequency and intensity due to severe climate change have increased which generally raised global destruction of resources and livelihood severity particularly the population inhabited in flood-prone areas. Pakistan is among the most climate change affected countries having long history of floods incidence, faced major losses of lives and economic resources. Hence, it is crucial to be aware of flood risks and having climate change perception for developing adaptation strategies of climate change and feasible measures of flood risk reduction. Psychological distance and flood risk perception relating to climate change in flood-prone Bait areas of Punjab was investigated in this study. Awareness, worry and preparedness to flood were three major indicators to quantify perception of flood risk whereas uncertainty, temporal, social, geographical and psychological as five dimensions applied to measure psychological distance. This research work used the sample data of 398 flood-prone respondents and applied the Pearson's correlation, ANOVA test and chi-square test for empirical estimation of the study. Empirical estimates illustrated as in general flood risk perception and psychological distance related to climate change in high flood risk areas were moderate whereas in worry and uncertainty negative association was estimated. Home ownership illustrated positive and significant affect on flood risk perception whereas negative influence on psychological distance to climate change in the estimates of regression analysis. Climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction philosophies can put together through facilitation of this study. Risk communications strategies need to develop to facilitate inhabitants to understand impacts of climate change, application of precautionary strategies and flood risks lessening measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was designed to ascertain the diagnostic efficacy of hand-held digital refractometer in determining total protein (TP). The Sipli sheep (n = 128) were grouped as per gender (females = 99, males = 29) and age (G1 = up till 1 year, n = 35; G2 = from 1 to 2 years, n = 63; G3 = above 2 years, n = 30). The results regarding the overall mean (±SE) values for the TPs attained through serum chemistry analyzer (TP1) and hand-held digital refractometer (TP2) were non-significantly (P≥0.05) different (59.2±1.6g/L and 59.8±0.5g/L, respectively). However, the reference intervals (RIs) were quite different for the two TPs being 45.1–95.7g/L and 57.0–67.0g/L for TP1 and TP2, respectively. Similar results were seen for gender-wise and group-wise results. On the contrary, the results regarding correlation coefficient and logilinear regression showed a negative correlation between the two TPs (r = -0.0244) with an adjusted r-square of 0.059 (5.9% probability). Furthermore, the three tests implied to assess the level of agreement between the two methods (Cronbach alpha, Intraclass correlation coefficient, and Bland & Altman test) revealed least agreement between the two methods. In a nutshell, the results of TP through digital refractometer were not in concordance with those attained through serum chemistry analyzer. However, it can cautiously be used if these results are compared with relevant corrected RIs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contamination of aquatic ecosystems with organic and inorganic contaminants is a global threat due to their hazardous effects on the environment and human health. Floating treatment wetland (FTW) technology is a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to existing treatment approaches. It consists of a buoyant mat in which wetland plants can grow and develop their roots in a suspended manner and can be implemented to treat stormwater, municipal wastewater, and industrial effluents. Here we explored the potential of bacterial-augmented FTWs for the concurrent remediation of phenol and hexavalent chromium (Cr6þ) contaminated water and evaluated treated water toxicity using Triticum aestivum L. (wheat) as a test plant. The FTWs carrying Phragmites australis L. (common reed) were inoculated with a consortium of four bacterial strains (Burkholderia phytofirmans PsJN, Acinetobacter lwofii ACRH76, Pseudomonas aeruginosa PJRS20, Bacillus sp. PJRS25) and evaluated for their potential to simultaneously remove phenol and chromium (Cr) from contaminated water. Results revealed that the FTWs efficiently improved water quality by removing phenol (86%) and Cr (80%), with combined use of P. australis and bacterial consortium after 50 days. The phytotoxicity assay demonstrated that the germination of wheat seed (96%) was significantly higher where bacterial-augmented FTWs treated water was used compared to untreated water. This pilot-scale study highlights that the combined application of wetland plants and bacterial consortium in FTWs is a promising approach for concomitant abatement of phenol and Cr from contaminated water, especially for developing countries like Pakistan where the application of advanced and expensive technologies is limited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lung cancer, often diagnosed late, is a leading cause of death worldwide. Bronchoscopic biopsies are crucial for early detection, especially in smokers. In Pakistan, where smoking is prevalent, understanding lung cancer patterns is essential. This study examines the types and locations of lung cancers diagnosed via bronchoscopic biopsies in a tertiary care hospital, providing insights for better diagnosis and treatment. Objectives: To determine the prevalence of different types of lung malignancies by using bronchoscopic guided endobronchial biopsies. Methodology: It was a retrospective cross-sectional study conducted in in-patient of Department of Pulmonology, department Nishtar Medical University Multan study of 43 patients enrolled between June 2022 to Oct 2023 by using consecutive non probability sampling method. All were smokers more than 20 pack year. Data analysis was done by using SPSS 23 version. Results: Out of 43 patients 34 (79%) were male and 9 (21%) were female. Bronchoscopic biopsy result showed small cell carcinoma being the most common tumour in our study 15 (34.88%) cases followed by Squamous cell carcinoma 14 (32.55%), Adenocarcinoma 6(13.95%), invasive carcinoma with hepatoid features 1 (2.32%), carcinoid tumour 1(2.32%), organizing Pneumonia 1(2.32%) and in biopsy was inconclusive in 5 (11.62%) cases. Tumour involvement by the location was also assessed in the present study. Most common site of origin was found to be Left main bronchus 11 (25.58%) followed by Right Main bronchus 9 (20.93%), Left upper lobe 9 (20.93%), Right upper lobe 5(11.62%), Left lower lobe 4 (9.30%), Lingular lobe 3 (6.97%), Right lower lobe 2(0.86%). Conclusion: This study revealed that small cell carcinoma is the most prevalent type of lung cancer diagnosed via bronchoscopic biopsies among smokers with over 20 pack-years of smoking history. These findings highlight the critical role of bronchoscopic biopsies in the early detection of lung cancer in high-risk populations, underlining the need for targeted screening and tailored treatment approaches to improve patient outcomes in regions with high smoking prevalence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Higher intensity of climatic dynamics has raised disasters incidence of floods and riverbank erosion which increased livelihood vulnerability of farming community particularly resides in flood prone locality. Objective of this study is to examine Indus River current tendency of shifting course with raising outcomes of floods and riverbank erosion and its impact on livelihood of Bait and riverbank areas community in Pakistan. Secondary and primary date were applied in the study while primary data of 380 households collected from Bait and riverbank area. Satellite images from 2000 to 2022 were used for analysis procedure which pictured as Indus River course continuing to shifting eastern side and eroding villages in succession. Empirical estimates indicated as inhabited households are confronted with multidimensional obstructions to sustaining their livelihood in native area. Frequent land losses due to riverbank erosion enforce each year majority of households to displace from their native areas. Resettlement issues and inadequate public support, disaster mitigation mechanism becomes unfeasible to get better from dreadful circumstances of susceptible inhabited population. Construction of embankment, criss-cross embankment pillars, sandbags and boulder pitching are some State-based significant policy measures to protect inhabited population from forthcoming floods and riverbank collapses. Outcomes of such government protective measures remained unsatisfied due to inappropriate implementation of such strategies. State-based central and local authorities must manage appropriate rehabilitation measures and its fast track implementation to maintain livelihood sustainability of riverbank erosion and flood prone inhabitant households. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the main issues confronting humanity in the twenty-first century is the lack of potable water availability. Around half of the world's consumers face drinking water scarcity. Industrially rich areas have a high population and high-water contamination risk factors. Modern technologies that are quite effective for water purification, present economical limitations that impede their usefulness in developing countries. Conventional methods involving low energy, low chemical demand, and prevention of water-borne disease are therefore significant for water purification in developing countries like Pakistan. These limitations have led to improvising the conventional method for facile water purification. Herein we report the water purification assembly based on allow sand filtration; involving the raw materials grass, clay, sand, silt, pebbles, gravel and coal/fly ash carbon to obtain clean and quality-controlled water treatment. Ground water samples collected from various areas of Sargodha city were subjected to the developed design Hybrid Multi-Layer Slow Sand Filter (HMLSSF). Based on pre- and post-treatment water analysis, it was determined that the filtration assembly was quite effective at reducing pH, turbidity, dissolved and suspended solids, hardness, and heavy metals percent removal by 87%, 77.7%, 91.3%, 95.4%, 84.4%, and to promising levels, respectively. Moreover, 99 % biological contamination such as total coliform was also removed by this method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to contribute to the body of literature on gender disparities after acute myocardial infarction (AMI) undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI). We identified all adult patients who had AMI between January 2017, and December 2022 and were in follow-up at our institute. We collected data on PPCI, revascularization strategy, sociodemographic characteristics, and in-hospital complications in the years following the procedure. A total of 5,872 patients who underwent PCI for AMI were included in the study, out of which 2,058 (35%) were women and 3,814 (65%) were men. Regarding the timing of PCI, female patients had a significantly longer median door-to-balloon time compared to male patients (136 minutes vs 108 minutes, P-value = 0.006). Female patients had a significantly higher rate of in-hospital mortality compared to male patients (5.5% vs 1.2%, P-value = 0.011). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that female gender, older age, and lower household income were independent predictors of longer door-to-balloon time. This study highlights gender disparities in PPCI in Pakistan, with female patients facing longer door-to-balloon times and higher in-hospital mortality rates. The findings suggest the need for targeted interventions to improve the access and quality of care for female patients with AMI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Riverbank erosion incidence and consecutive flood disasters have increased because of extreme climatic dynamics in the current couple of decades. Farming community livelihood particularly inhabited in flood-prone area has become more vulnerable due to these consecutive riverbank erosion and disasters. The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of climate change on livelihood vulnerability in riverbank erosion Bait community flood-prone area of Punjab, Pakistan. Livelihood vulnerability index approach is comprised of LVI-IPCC with major and subpotential components which were applied for empirical estimation of 240 Bait area respondents of the study area. Livelihood vulnerability index estimated value 0.47 indicated lower socioeconomic conditions caused widen gap among community networking in the study area. Climate vulnerability index estimated value -0.0176 illustrated as study district is higher vulnerable due to calculated values of sensitivity 0.44, exposure 0.50 while with lower adaptive capacity 0.46. Inhabited population in the study area is mostly vulnerable of climate change due to high value of ecological degradation 0.49 in outward appearance of deforestation and riverbank erosion. Bait communities of flood-prone area have limited and traditional adaptive capacities owing to future disasters, inadequate awareness, low level of education and higher poverty as such scenario exposes not capable of adapting environmental changes. These significant estimates of the study are earth-shattering to policy makers to scrutinize the root grounds of livelihood vulnerability and develop the agricultural adaptation for flood-prone rural population. In local scenario there is need to application of such feasible measures as enhancing off-farm income sources, construction of concrete banks and water reservoirs on rivers, developing overhead infrastructure and provision of awareness and training to upcoming hazards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Groundwater is a precious natural resource that is vital to various aspects of life. Punjab is experiencing groundwater stress due to urbanization and population growth, leading to overuse and reduced aquifer recharge. Sustainable groundwater supplies can only be created through better management and artificial recharge techniques. This study uses multi-influencing factor, literature-based, and combined techniques to identify and characterize groundwater-managed aquifer recharge potential sites (GWMARPSs) in Punjab. There are limitations to the previous work in this field, and these factors have not been used to estimate GWRPSs in the study area. The study uses GIS and RS techniques to overlay twelve geo-informative layers, with rainfall being the most significant factor. High-quality data and observations from the field are incorporated into the model. The study classifies the GWMARPSs into five categories, with Punjab having 0.34%, 13.29%, 60.68%, 25.26%, and 0.43% of the least, poorly, moderately, well-, and highly suitable sites. Punjab's southern regions are least suitable for recharge, while some areas in eastern and northern Punjab are well-suited for recharge. Alluvial plains, valleys, low-lying areas, and areas with volcanic landforms are classified as least to poorly suitable zones. Model predictions are validated using piezometric level data and ROC and exhibit good performance (AUC, 0.74). This study could serve as a baseline for future groundwater research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recent energy shortfall in Pakistan has prompted the need for the development of hydropower projects to cope with the energy and monetary crisis. Hydropower in the northern areas is available yet has not been explored too much. Focusing on the sustainable development goal (SDG) "Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy", thirteen proposed sites were selected from upstream to downstream of the Hunza River for analysis. The head on all the proposed sites was determined by taking the elevation difference between the proposed turbine and the intake at all sites. The discharge on all proposed ungauged sites was determined using ArcGIS for watershed delineation and the area ratio method along with Soil Conservation Service–Curve Number (SCS-CN) by using gauged data of Hunza River provided by Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) Pakistan at Daniyor bridge Gilgit, Shimshal and the Passo tributaries of Hunza River. The Location Search Algorithm (LSA) approach used a multi-criteria decision-making tool (MDM) to make a decision matrix considering the location and constraint criteria and then normalizing the decision matrix using benefit and cost criteria, the relative weights were assigned to all criteria using a rank sum weighted method and the sites were ranked on the basis of the final score. The results revealed that Hunza River has a significant hydropower potential and based on the final score in the LSA approach, proposed site 13, site 4 and site 9 were concluded as the most promising sites among proposed alternatives. The proposed methodology could be an encouraging step for decision makers for future hydropower development in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the relationship between loan characteristics and loan credit conditions on loan repayment issues in order to assist Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) in Pakistan in improving their loan payback performance. The study also examines the link between loan credit terms and problems with loan repayment as well as the mediating function of client-business performance in the relationship between loan characteristics and loan repayment concerns. A measurement model and a structural model were both used in this investigation, which used a two-stage structural equation modelling methodology. The measurement model, also known as the outer model, was employed to evaluate the reliability and validity of the data collection technology. PLS-SEM bootstrapping was performed to test the hypothesis using the structural model (inner model). The results are consistent with the assumption that loan terms and conditions have a positive impact on microenterprise loan repayment concerns. The findings of this study also lend credence to the idea that client-business performance functions as a mediator in the relationships between loan characteristics and problems with loan repayment as well as between loan credit terms and problems with loan repayment. There hasn't been much research done in Pakistan to date on how loan characteristics and loan credit terms directly affect the challenges microenterprises face in repaying loans. The business performance of microenterprises is also investigated in relation to loan features, loan credit terms, and loan repayment issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Government of Pakistan started focusing on the cultivation of olive trees to meet the rising demand for edible oil, save foreign exchange, and improve the farming community's livelihoods. It is a matter of fact that training plays an important role in building the farmer's capacities, raising awareness, and providing them with modern knowledge by enhancing their performance to achieve the ultimate goals. However, farmers struggle to manage the olive crop due to a lack of practical knowledge and training sessions on advanced production techniques. Keeping in view the above-mentioned facts, it was imminent to assess the awareness level and adoption of olive growers of the Pothwar region of Punjab so that they can contribute effectively to the uplift of agriculture as well as their livelihoods. Pothwar region comprises Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, and Rawalpindi districts. Three districts (Chakwal, Jhelum, and Attock) were purposively selected due to the maximum number of olive growers. The olive growers' list with a minimum of 50 plants was collected from the Department of Agriculture (Extension). A total sample size of 310 farmers was selected through a purposive sampling procedure by using Morgan and Krejcie table as the total population (Olive growers in the targeted research areas) is 1500. Data were collected through a face to face interviews with the help of an interview schedule. The SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences) and MS. Office software were considered for analysis. According to the results, about 51% of the respondents in the study belonged to old age (above 45) and about 53.2% of the respondents were having matric education. Furthermore, results from correlation analysis showed that education, the number of olive trees and motivation to grow olive trees have a highly positive significant relationship with the level of awareness about olive cultivation practices. The systematic promotion of fortnightly and monthly training of olive growers without any discrepancy should be planned under realistic monitoring and evaluation. Agricultural extension department should arrange the training for different progressive farmers' fields to develop an interest in updating their knowledge and analyzing their problems that will bring positive outcomes in olive production of Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cotton leaf curl disease (CLCuD) is a major constraint in the production of cotton crop across the Africa and Asia which is caused by a complex of begomoviruses (family Geminiviridae). Cotton leaf curl Khokhran virus and associated Cotton leaf curl Multan betasatellite (CLCuKoV/CLCuMB) complex are important agents of CLCuD which transmitted by whiteflies of the Bemisia tabaci species complex. Information regarding the transmission efficiency of CLCuKoV/CLCuMB by whitefly cryptic species is seriously lacking in Pakistan, therefore present study is conducted for comparison of transmission efficiency of CLCuKoV/CLCuMB by two characterized whitefly cryptic species (Asia II-1 and Asia II-5). Whitefly cryptic species were reared separately on Nicotiana benthamiana plants infected with CLCuKoV/CLCuMB for 24 or 48 h and these infected whitefly cryptic species were transferred to un-infected cotton and alternative host plants for 24 or 48 h. The first experiment results showed that Asia II-1 was able to transmit CLCuKoV/CLCuMB with high efficiency in cotton and bitter gourd plants as compared to the Asia II-5 while other host plants did not develop symptoms. Further in the second experiment results revealed that Asia II-1 was able to transmit CLCuKoV/CLCuMB with high efficiency from symptomatic bitter gourd to cotton plants as compared to Asia II-5 which did not show symptoms of transmission. Infection symptoms were confirmed by visual inspection after 30 days and PCR analysis. We found the percentage of virus infection symptoms in alternate host plants differed between two whitefly cryptic species due to varying transmission efficiencies. This research finding advances our understanding to explore the whitefly cryptic species involved in the transmission of CLCuD and will aid in the development of management strategies for control of whitefly cryptic species and CLCuD transmission in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Road traffic injuries (RTIs) are leading cause of unintentional injuries and death across the globe. Road traffic crashes (RTCs) are neglected public health issue specially in low and middle income countries. Aims: The study aims to investigate risk factors of RTCs and assess quality of pre and post hospital care. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted in Lahore, Pakistan from July 2022 – December 2022. Randomly selected 300 patients were interviewed using structured questionnaire at four purposively selected major tertiary care hospitals of Lahore. Binary logistic regression was used to find association between risk factors and injury severity (P < 0.05). Results: Data analysis showed that age groups 16–30 years (27%), older than 55 years (27%) comprised substantial proportion. A total of 65% RTCs attributed to human errors/factors. Most road crash victims (88% and 87%, respectively) were not wearing helmets and didn’t hold a valid driver's license. According to injury severity score, 75% of victims had severe injury. Odds of severe injury were more among aged more than 55 years and human error attributed RTCs. There was significant gap between perception and expectation of patients receiving healthcare services (P < 0.05). Conclusion: This is first study in Pakistan that examine quality of pre and post hospital care of RCVs. Significant quality gaps were found in pre and post hospital care of RCVs as per Servqual model that need to be addressed. Serious efforts are required to reduce growing burden of RTCs in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Weed management is becoming increasingly important for sustainable crop production. Weeds cause an average yield loss of 11.5% billion in Pakistan, which is more than PKR 65 billion per year. A real-time laser weeding robot can increase the crop's yield by efficiently removing weeds. Therefore, it helps decrease the environmental risks associated with traditional weed management approaches. However, to work efficiently and accurately, the weeding robot must have a robust weed detection mechanism to avoid physical damage to the targeted crops. This work focuses on developing a lightweight weed detection mechanism to assist laser weeding robots. The weed images were collected from six different agriculture farms in Pakistan. The dataset consisted of 9000 images of three crops: okra, bitter gourd, sponge gourd, and four weed species (horseweed, herb paris, grasses, and small weeds). We chose a single-shot object detection model, YOLO5. The selected model achieved a mAP of 0.88@IOU 0.5, indicating that the model predicted a large number of true positive (TP) with much less prediction of false positive (FP) and false negative (FN). While SSD-ResNet50 achieved a mAP of 0.53@IOU 0.5, the model predicted fewer TP with significant outcomes as FP or FN. The superior performance of the YOLOv5 model made it suitable for detecting and classifying weeds and crops within fields. Furthermore, the model was ported to an Nvidia Xavier AGX standalone device to make it a high-performance and low-power computation detection system. The model achieved an FPS rate of 27. Therefore, it is highly compatible with the laser weeding robot, which takes approximately 22.04 h at a velocity of 0.25 feet per second to remove weeds from a one-acre plot. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This study intends to examine the impact of current health expenditure, domestic government health expenditure, government education expenditure, social protection, population growth, and foreign direct investment (FDI) on human capital formation in the context of Pakistan. This study utilized skill and health to measure human capital. The study utilized annual data for the period of 1990–2020 and data has been extracted from World Development Indicators (WDI) and World Bank. The study utilized auto-regressive distributed lag (ARDL) bound test to examine long-run co-integration among defined variables. Furthermore, the study employed ARDL Model to obtain long-run and short-run empirical estimates for modeled variables. The results of this study indicated that current health expenditure (CHE), domestic government health expenditure (DGHE), government education expenditures (GEE), foreign direct expenditure (FDI), and social protection program (SP) have a positive and significant association with human capital in term of primary, secondary, and tertiary education attainment and life expectancy at birth. Moreover, domestic government spending on health and education, and social protection program significantly decreases child mortality in Pakistan. Furthermore, this study found that population growth has a negative and significant association with primary attainment. The findings of this study suggest that the Government of Pakistan should allocate more of its budget for health, education, and social protection programs to uplift its human capital. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Weed management has become a highly labor-intensive activity, which is the reason for decreased yields and high costs. Moreover, the lack of skilled labor and weed-resistant herbicides severely impact the agriculture sector and food production, hence increasing the need for automation in agriculture. The use of agricultural robots will help in the assurance of higher yields and proactive control of the crops. This study proposes a laser-based weeding vehicle with a unique mechanical body that is adjustable relative to the field structure, called the Robot Operating System (ROS) based robust control system, and is customizable, cost-effective and easily replicable. Hence, an autonomous-mobile-agricultural robot with a 20 watt laser has been developed for the precise removal of weed plants. The assembled robot's testing was conducted in the agro living lab. The field trials have demonstrated that the robot takes approximately 23.7 h at the linear velocity of 0.07 m/s for the weeding of one acre plot. It includes 5 s of laser to kill one weed plant. Comparatively, the primitive weeding technique is highly labor intensive and takes several days to complete an acre plot area. The data presented herein reflects that implementing this technology could become an excellent approach to removing unwanted plants from agricultural fields. This solution is relatively cost-efficient and provides an alternative to expensive human labor initiatives to deal with the increased labor wages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chromium (Cr)-contaminated tannery wastewater is a major environmental concern, especially in developing countries, such as Pakistan, due to its use for crop irrigation, resulting in food-chain contamination and health issues. In this study, we explored the distribution, speciation, hydrogeochemical behavior and environmental risks of Cr in tannery wastewater collected from various tanneries of Kasur district in Punjab, Pakistan. Tannery wastewater samples were taken during the summer (TWW-summer; n = 82) and winter (TWW-winter; n = 82) seasons. The results showed that high Cr concentration was observed in TWW-winter (mean: 49 ± 32 mg L−1) compared to TWW-summer (mean: 15 ± 21 mg L−1). In TWW-summer and TWW-winter samples, the Cr concentration exceeded the National Environmental Quality Standard (1 mg L−1), with the total Cr ranging from 2.8 to 125 mg L−1. Hexavalent Cr (Cr(VI)) and trivalent Cr (Cr(III)) concentrations spanned 2.7 to 2.9 and 12.4 to 46 mg L−1, respectively. The Piper plot showed that hydrogeochemistry of wastewater was dominated by Ca-Mg-SO4 and Ca-Mg-Cl type water, and geochemical modeling indicated that the presence of Cr-iron (Fe)-bearing mineral phases—notably, FeCr2O4, MgCr2O4 and Cr(OH)3) may control the fate of Cr in the tannery wastewater. Environmental risk assessment modeling categorized the tannery wastewater as the 'worst quality', which is not fit for use in crop irrigation without treatment. This study highlights that immediate monitoring, remediation and mitigation strategies are required to reduce the risk of Cr exposure from tannery wastewater in many areas of Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cotton-wheat (CW) is an important cropping system in Pakistan; however, delayed cultivation of cotton after wheat significantly deceases system productivity. Late-sown cotton crop suffers from heat stress, high fruit shedding and infestation of various pests and cotton leaf curl virus (CLCV). Therefore, early sowing of cotton is preferred to overcome these challenges. However, cotton planting is overlapped with the harvesting of wheat crop in CW cropping system. Since fallow land is unavailable, relay intercropping of cotton in wheat crop seems a viable option for early planting. This three-year field study evaluated the role of relay cropping of cotton in improving the productivity of CW cropping system and lowering CLCV infestation. Wheat was planted in 22.5 cm rows with no row skipped (W1), one row skipped after every three (W2), and six rows (W3) for planting cotton in 0.75 and 1.50 m apart rows. Early cotton was planted in fallow land (C1) and standing wheat in 0.75 (C2) and 1.50 m (C3) apart rows and conventional planting after wheat harvesting (C4). Yield losses of wheat crop ranged from 8.16 to 19.81% in W3 and W2, respectively compared W1. However, C2 and C3 treatments improved cotton yield by 86.07% and 64.89% suppressed CLCV infestation by 68.14% and 65.86%, respectively compared to C4. Moreover, net benefits from relay cropping (W2C2) were 2190.1 $ ha-1 in 2013–14, 1954.4 $ ha-1 in 2014–15 and 2559.5 $ ha-1 in 2015–16 in comparison with C1 (1543.5, 1311.7 and 1892.3 $ ha-1 during 2013–14, 2014–15 and 2015–16, respectively). The W2 resulted in higher cotton yield compared to W3 which is mainly attributed to double number of cotton rows in W2 than W3. It is concluded that cotton relay cropping (W2C2) resulted in the highest economic returns with minimum CLCV infestation. Therefore, W2C2 is recommended for improving the system productivity of CW cropping system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Germination of seeds is a complex process linked to various molecular and biochemical changes that increase the nutritional value. This research has studied the impact of germination on the enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant activities of five domestic staple legumes from Pakistan: chickpea, mung bean, soybean, lentil, and peanut. The maximum moisture content was recorded for chickpea, i.e., 11.7 ± 0.05 g 100 g−1 followed by lentil, soybean, peanut, and mung bean as 9.65 ± 0.02, 8.07 ± 0.01, 7.6 ± 0.01, and 7.31 ± 0.01 g 100 g−1, respectively. The overall augmentation in catalase activity during germination (days 1 to 4) was maximum for lentils, i.e., 76.22%, and ascorbate peroxidase activity for peanuts, i.e., 62.09%. The soybean showed a clear difference from the 1st to 4th days of germination for peroxide activity among all selected legumes with a 37.29% increase. A maximum change in superoxide dismutase was noticed in mung bean. The mung bean also had the highest variation in total flavonoid contents, while total phenolic contents were higher in the chickpea. The radical scavenging activity varied higher in peanuts, while the ascorbic acid content was maximum for soybeans. Among all selected legumes, non-germinated chickpeas showed a lower DPPH value, i.e., 1.15 ± 0.03%, whereas the highest DPPH value was observed in lentils (69.84 ± 0.05%). Thus, the incorporation of ready-to-eat (RTE) germinated legumes with high antioxidant activity would be a contemporary addition to the everyday meal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Whey and sugarcane juice contain many functional components like immunoglobulins and antioxidants, which are very beneficial for human health. Pakistan is the world's 4th and 5th largest producer of milk and sugarcane, but we are still importing dairy products and sugar from foreign countries. Using whey and sugarcane juice to make value-added functional drinks can enhance its consumption and ultimately be exported to foreign markets. In this research, sugarcane juice was incorporated in whey in five different Blends; 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50%. The product was subjected to different physicochemical analyses at 0-day, 7-day, 14 days, 21 days and 28 days of storage. Results were analyzed through two-way factorial under CRD, which indicated that there was a highly significant effect (p <.01) of blends on all the proximate analyses (fat, protein, total solids, and ash) of the product, while the effect of storage (days) was non-significant (p >.05). Moreover, the interaction effect (Blends*storage days) was non-significant (p >.05) on all the test parameters. However, the individual effect of days and Blends on other physiochemical tests; pH, acidity (%), sedimentation (%), viscosity (c.p), and antioxidants (µg/mL) was highly significant (p <.01). While density (g/ml) and total phenolic contents were significantly affected (p <.01) by Blends with a non-significant (p >.05) effect of storage (days). Apart from that, the sensory analysis indicated that all the parameters were affected by both Blends and storage (days) with a highly significant effect (p <.01). Conclusively this whey-based sugar cane beverage is an innovative and newly emerged functional drink with a lot of nutrition and health-promoting effects. However, it needs further research to evaluate the proper storage conditions and the use of different preservatives to enhance its keeping quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change in the global perspective has increased the occurrence of natural disasters, which subsequently decreased agricultural production and intensified the issue of food security. Developing countries, such as Pakistan, are facing severe food security issues, where most of the population still experiences poverty and hunger in their daily lives. Flood disasters ruin valuable land, cause agricultural production losses, and interrupt livelihood routines as expected household livelihood becomes more vulnerable. This research work focused on investigating the flood hazards vulnerability and risk of food security in the Bait community flood-prone areas of Punjab, Pakistan, with a broader aspect in contrast to previous research work. A constructed food security index composed of several IPCC and FAO factors with correlated dimensions of food security was used for the empirical estimation in this study. A composite food security index was developed through polychoric principal component analysis. To estimate the influence on the overall food security condition in the study area, a food security index was regressed on various independent variables. Estimates of the study indicated that three-fourths of household respondents in the study area are confronted with the issue of food security with changeable scale. Financing schemes, physical assets, and family type illustrated the positive influence on respondents' food security level, whereas respondents suffering property losses owing to floods had a negative influence. The study findings suggested integrated strategies must be adopted to effectively deal with issues of food security in the scenario of increasing severity of flood disasters. Policymakers and disaster-concerned institutions need to develop disaster risk mitigation strategies by constructing new water reserves and clearing river encroachments to deal with flood disasters. Agricultural research and development authorities need to provide climate friendly seed varieties and promote particular food crops for flood prone areas to ensure food security and reduce livelihood vulnerability, specifically for the flood-prone communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The major aim of the study was to explore public secondary school teacher's level of prosocial motivation in the subject of English in tehsil Gujrat, as prosocial motivation plays an important role in different aspects of life. Quantitative, survey type study was conducted. Population comprised of public sector 148 English language secondary school teachers of tehsil Gujrat. By simple random sampling technique, researchers selected 40 teachers from public sector schools. To explore the level of prosocial motivation, the researcher developed a tool on the constructs of prosocial motivation suggested by Grant (2016). First section of the tool was about demographic. In the second section there are statements to be evaluated on five points Likert scale. The researchers visited personally to make sure maximum response ratio. Data was analysed by descriptive statistic and it was explored that the overall mean score of the level of prosocial motivation of secondary school teachers is very high i.e. 90.45. Moreover there is significant difference across gender in secondary school teacher's level of prosocial motivation and furthermore, secondary school teacher's level of prosocial motivation is significantly different with respect to locality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Termite infestation is one of the fundamental problems associated with the loss of urban trees and ecological services. However, no such study has been performed in Pakistan to investigate the termite occurrence and assess such damages to urban trees caused by termites. For Lahore, research and comparable data on urban tree damages are rare or missing. This study surveyed six different microhabitats, including Bagh-e-Jinnah, canal vegetation, Model Town Park, Jallo Forestry, Race-Course Park, and FC College Vegetation employing the three belt transects (100 × 5 m) method. We geo-referenced termite-infested trees to investigate the termite occurrence on living and dead standing trees, termite diversity, and the assessment of tree damage by termites' attack. We recorded four termite species (Odontotermes obesus Rambur, Coptotermes heimi Wasmann, Heterotermes indicola Wasmann, and Microtermes obesi Holmgren) representing two families (Rhinotermitidae and Termitidae). However, the diversity indices revealed that O. obesus (higher termite) and C. heimi (lower termite) were dominant with 46.60 and 36% of occurrence among observed trees, respectively. Kernel density function indicated that the Lahore Canal and Bagh-e-Jinnah plantation shared all four termites' infestation evenly compared to other study sites. We observed the maximum number of damaged trees by termites in canal vegetation with the most damaged exotic tree species Populus euramericana along the canal green belt. Additionally, we observed significant (P < 0.05) termite-tree interactions with exotic, living, and dead standing tree species and found termite colony size positively (R = 0.985) correlated with the tree trunk diameter up to breast height (DBH). The average population of termites per unit volume of deadwood log was (0.39/cm3) within all plantation sites. In conclusion, this study provides simple, reckless, and inexpensive knowledge about the assessment of termite damage to trees, which may give a better idea in making decisions on tree selection and management in urban ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Different students have different preferences for visual, auditory and kinesthetic learning styles. The objective of this study was to determine the preferences for visual, auditory and kinesthetic learning styles among nursing students of Lahore, Pakistan. Materials & Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried in Lahore School of Nursing, University of Lahore, Pakistan from March 11 to June 10, 2022. We adapted our questionnaire from Barsch Learning Styles Inventory for 113 BSN students. Learning styles, gender, age groups and academic year were categorical variables and were analyzed as counts and percentages with 95%CI. Results: Total 113 students were included, 17 males (15.04%) and 96 (84.96%) females, with 101 (89.38%) in 20-24 years and 45 (39.82%) in 2nd and 68 (60.18%) in 3rd academic year. Visual learning style was moderately preferred by 67 (59.30%), followed by highly preferred by 40 (35.40%) and less preferred by six (5.30%) students. Auditory learning style was moderately preferred by 88 (77.88%), followed by highly preferred by 23 (20.35%) and less preferred by two (1.77%) students. Kinesthetic learning style was moderately preferred by 71 (62.84%), followed equally by highly preferred and less preferred by 21 (18.58%) students. Conclusion: Visual learning style was moderately preferred by maximum students, followed by highly preferred and less preferred. Auditory learning style was moderately preferred by maximum students, followed by highly preferred and less preferred. Kinesthetic learning style was moderately preferred by maximum students, followed equally by highly preferred and less preferred. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is a destructive insect pest of various economic crops. This species was first reported in Pakistan during 2019, and is now an emerging threat to Pakistan's Agriculture. The main objective of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of a synthetic insecticide Chlorantraniliprole in comparison to different concentrations of single botanical, i.e., neem leaf extract @ (50 ppm and 100 ppm) against FAW larvae in maize. Our findings showed a significant effect (P < 0.001) of these chemicals on the mortality and consumption rate of FAW larvae. Results show that mortality increased in all treatments with time. Recommended dose of chlorantraniliprole (50 ml/100 litre water) insecticide showed 71.0% mortality of FAW on 5th day, which increased up to 82.0% on the 7th day after application of treatments. No significant (P > 0.05) difference in larval mortality was observed for chlorantraniliprole (recommended dose) and neem at 100ppm on the 5th and 7th day after application. Higher concentration (100ppm) of neem showed 59.0% mortality of FAW larvae on 5th and 72.0% on the seventh day of application. Chlorantraniliprole reduced 62.9% food consumption on the 5th day and 71.9% on the 7th day, while 43.5% on the 5th day and 51.6% on the 7th day reduction in food consumption occurred at 100 ppm when compared to the control group. While using 50ppm concentration of neem extract, 20.90% and 27.35% consumption rate was reduced at 5th and 7th day respectively. Our findings suggest chlorantraniliprole as an effective insecticide to control FAW larvae in maize crop; however, neem extract at 100 ppm concentration also performed well against this pest. As botanicals have less harmful to humans and the environment than synthetic insecticides, neem leaf extract can be used in integrated pest management programs of FAW. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In developing countries, particularly in agrarian economies like Pakistan, agricultural production is severely affected by successive incidences of adverse catastrophic risks. Inadequate and limited risk management measures from farming community to overcome such severe financial, production, and marketing risks not enough so need of adoption farm-based feasible risk management strategies. In addressing this research gap, this study investigated the potential association and implementing synchronized agricultural credit and diversification adoption to catastrophic risk manage for wheat production in Punjab, Pakistan. The study used the data of 480 wheat farmers' respondents and employed multinomial and bivariate probit regression models for empirical analysis. Empirical estimates illustrated the significant association in adoption of multiple risk management strategies as addressing the adoption single risk management strategy motivates farmers to adopt another strategy at same time. Furthermore, results also indicated as farmer schooling, age, family return, ownership of land, farm size, and farmer risk oppose character were highlighted the most influenced features for adopting various risk management strategies. Policy makers and state-based authorities can be assisted by these outcomes to evaluating plans of risk management and willingness of farmer in accept government supported regarding implementation of these catastrophic risk managing strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pastoralism is mostly related to specific ethnic group or group of people whose livelihoods generally depend on production of livestock in the rangelands. Pastoralists' livelihood regarding livestock is hastily becoming indefensible due to mounting pressure of population growth on rangelands and desertification of vast rangeland, the reason for severe climate change. This study attempted to investigate the impact of violent conflicts and environmental hazards on sustainability of pastoral in Punjab, Pakistan. Muzaffargarh, Rahim Yar Khan and Bahawalpur districts of southern Punjab due to significant contribution in livestock and grazing rangeland locations were purposively selected for this study. This research work used the data of 840 pastoralists' and employed instrumental variable regression model for empirical estimation of the study. Estimates of the study indicated livestock holding negatively influenced from violent conflicts and environmental hazards as this effect can initiate without any exception of livestock holding size. Finding also highlighted pastoralists significant welfare indicators such as income and expenses were negatively influenced due to livestock losses. Pastoralist's livelihood sustainability is feasible by overcoming such negative impacts of violent conflicts and environmental hazards. There is need to sure pastoralists' community sustainability by priority focusing on environment sustainable agenda not only internationally but also on national and regional levels. More particularly, implementation proper policy measures regarding climate change coping strategies, controlling violent conflicts, land management and managing programs for reducing poverty more specifically for pastoralist's rangeland households is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the pattern of partial edentulism and the cast removable dental prosthesis design in relation to the Classes recorded. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Prosthodontics, Armed Forces Institute of Dentistry (AFID), Rawalpindi Pakistan, from Apr to Sep 2021. Methodology: A total of 67 partially dentate male and female patients presenting to the Prosthodontics Department requiring partial cast dentures were included in the study. Visual inspection of the master casts and partial denture frameworks was carried out in the laboratory. Kennedy's Classification, modification areas, type of major connector, direct retainer, rest and use of indirect retention were recorded. Results: The most prevalent Class of partially dentate arch was Kennedy Class-II in maxilla 10 (45.5%) and Class-I and III in mandible 15 (33.3%) each. Major connectors most frequently encountered were anteroposterior palatal strap (59.1%) and lingual bar (57.8%). Circumferential clasp (35.8%) was the most used retainer type in Classes II and III, whereas RPI was mostly found in Classes I and II (32.1%). Occlusal rests were most commonly used (72.4%). Indirect retention was mostly used in Class-I and II denture frameworks (95.9%). Conclusion: The most commonly encountered partial edentulism pattern was Kennedy's Class I and II. Following basic principles of RPD design can help elevate the standards of removable denture treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Floods due to higher severity of destruction are considered the most destructive natural hazards in the world. Initiating the appropriate strategies of disaster risk reduction is necessary to understand risk perception. This study attempted to examine the flood risk public perception in flash flood-prone areas of Punjab, Pakistan. A simple random sampling technique was used for collecting the data of 560 household respondents, and a logistic regression model was employed to make out the factors of flood risk perception. In classification of low and high perceived risk of relevant indicators, flood risk perception index was constructed. Risk perception is significantly influenced by socioeconomic factors which have a direct impact on disaster preparedness and potential adaptive capacities. After that, potential correlation of risk perception with the demographic status of respondents was investigated in this study. Empirical estimates indicated as respondents' schooling, ownership of house, size of household, employment status and past flood experience significantly influence flood risk perception. Risk perception determinants also diverse among both communities portray spatial differences. Inadequate protection measures from public authorities and institutions, limited preparedness regarding actions of private mitigation, reduced intensity of reliance in institutions and authorities are major reasons for high risk and lower mitigation in these flash flood-prone areas. The outcomes of this research can facilitate to understand flood risk perception and its factors for conniving appropriate management plan of flood risk and communication strategies. Furthermore, this research can help consider multidimensional flood risks and its spatial vibrancy from the perspective of social science. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Linguistics heterogeneity and multilingualism is a world-wide phenomenon in this modern era. Pakistan is a multilingual region and there is a large population of speakers who use Punjabi language. They are semi-speakers of Punjabi because they are not proficient in this language but use it occasionally. This study aims to describe and investigate multilingual situation among Punjabi speakers who are losing their language and using other languages like Urdu, English and Arabic in different functional domains. This study is an effort for investigating Punjabi language vitality in Punjab. This article identifies the domains where Punjabi is used and also those domains where other languages are utilized. The researcher used randomly selected sample of 132 participants for this study and a questionnaire was used under survey technique of research for collection of data. The findings of this study can be concluded that Punjabi speakers in Pakistan are part of a multilingual speech community where their mother tongue has not gained high status and they are semi-speakers of Punjabi. As a result, they acquire other languages and switch to them depend upon in which context or domain they are to talk. Most of them use Punjabi, Urdu, English and Arabic in different specific domains. Multilingualism and code switching of these Punjabi semi-speakers for the purpose of using languages in their certain domains have been resulting in reducing and weakening the vitality of Punjabi language in their speech community and language shift is happening from Punjabi to Urdu and English. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toxoplasma gondii is an intracellular obligate parasite that causes toxoplasmosis, a zoonotic infection that affects warm-blooded animals and humans worldwide. To comprehensively characterize the disease condition in Pakistan for future reference, we ascertained the prevalence of Toxoplasma infection and predisposing factors in the Pakistani population over a 20-year period. We systematically reviewed research articles published in English (2000–2020) from PubMed and Google Scholar. The search results 26 publications involving 10,924 people and 2611 seropositive cases. The toxoplasmosis seropositivity rate was higher in women (25.44%) as compared to men (21.48%) and were statistically significant (p < 0.001). Furthermore, seropositivity was high among people with direct contact with cats, who consumed uncooked meat and raw vegetables, had poor education, and lived in rural areas. The 35–65-year age group had the highest prevalence rate of T. gondii infection. Toxoplasma infection was significantly more prevalent in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province (25.87%) than in Punjab (20.42%) (p < 0.001). This is the first comprehensive analysis of T. gondii infection epidemiology in Pakistan. It reveals a high frequency of infection among women. We strongly encourage further research to aid patient care and the development of more efficient diagnostic tests and preventative techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drosicha mangiferae (Green) (Homoptera: Margarodidae) is sucking, polyphagous, highly fecund and destructive insect pest of mango, citrus, guava, and plum java. Control of this pest in citrus orchards is dependent upon use of insecticide from several groups which might reduce the efficacy of several chemicals. In this study, we have generated the baseline toxicity data of ten formulated insecticides viz., deltamethrin, bifenthrin, fenpropathrin, methidathion, chlorpyrifos, acetamiprid, imidacloprid, thiamethoxam, spirotetramat, and flonicamid against adult females of D. mangiferae by conducting leaf-dip bioassays in the laboratory, over the period of consecutive three years from 2017–2019 in order to assess the susceptibility status of field collected populations from citrus orchard of Sargodha, Punjab, Pakistan. Results showed that bifenthrin, thiamethoxam, spirotetramat and flonicamid exhibited higher toxicities to D. mangiferae adult females owing to very low LC50 values. Significantly larger LC50 values were obtained for all other insecticides such as deltamethrin, fenpropathrin, methidathion, chlorpyrifos, acetamiprid, and imidacloprid which indicated that these insecticides showed comparatively lower toxicities. It can be concluded that insecticides with very low LC50 values should be incorporated in the management program of D. mangiferae to increase control efficiency and minimize the resistance development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The rapidly expanding global population of elderly adults poses greater need for health-care services in the elderly. The objectives of this study were to determine nursing students’ desire to care for geriatric patients by sex, age groups and marital status in Lahore, Pakistan. Materials & Methods: This cross-sectional study was done in Lahore School of Nursing, University of Lahore, Pakistan from September 2021-December 2021. Sample of 112 was enrolled. Nursing students’ desire to care for geriatric patients was research variable and sex, age groups (19-21 & 22-25 years) and marital status (single & married) were demographic variables. Mean, range, and SD were used to represent ‘normal’ data, whereas median, Q1, Q3, and IQR were used to explain skewed data with 95%CI. Hypotheses were tested using independentsamples t-test for normal data and one-sample Wilcoxon signed-rank test & Mann–Whitney U test for skewed data. Results: The observed median score of the sample (3.1667) for nursing students’ desire to care for geriatric patients was statistically significantly lower (p=<0.0001) than expected (3.5) score. The mean score was similar (p=.60) for boys (3.1667) and girls (3.2328). It was higher (p=.003) in age group 21-25 (3.3150) than 19-21 years (3.0777). The median score was similar (p=.182) for single (3.1667) and married (3.0) nursing students. Conclusion: In our population, the nursing students’ desire to care for geriatric patients was lower than expected. It was similar in boys and girls and in single and married students. It was higher in older than younger age group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Testicular self-examination (TSE) is quick, painless process for detecting testicular cancer in its early stages. The objective of this study was to determine level of perceptions of male nursing students towards TSE in Punjab, province, Pakistan. Materials & Methods: This cross-sectional study was done in Lahore School of Nursing, Lahore, Pakistan from October, 2021 to January, 2022. For 106 male nursing students, we used 5-point Likert scale with 10 items. Level of perceptions towards TSE was research variable on ratio scale. Age groups and marital status were demographic variables on nominal scale. Nominal variables were analyzed by count and percentage. Ratio data was skewed, so analyzed by median, quartile 1, quartile 3 and IQR, with 95%CI for median. H01 was verified by one-sample Wilcoxon signed-rank test and H02 and H03 by Mann-Whitney U test. Results: 106 male nursing students included 32 (30.2%) in age group ≤20 & 74 (69.8%) in >20 years, and 102 (96.2%) single & four (3.8%) married. Observed median score of perceptions towards TSE 3.30 was statistically significantly lower (p=<.0001) than expected score of 3.75. Median score of perceptions was same (p=.475) for age group ≤ 20 years (3.50) and >20 years (3.25) and same (p=.248) for single (3.30) and married (3.10) students. Conclusion: In our study, the level of perceptions of male nursing students towards testicular self-examination in Punjab province, Pakistan was lower than expected. The level was same for age group ≤20 years and >20 years and for single and married students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Livestock plays a significant role in promoting the financial status, assuring food security and reducing poverty specifically rural community of developing countries. The present study attempts to analyze the impact of formal credit on milk production of dairy animals and household income in district Vehari of southern Punjab, Pakistan. The study used simple random sampling approach for collecting primary data of 240 livestock household farmers and employed regression analysis model to estimate credit impact on household income and livestock production. An economic technique of log-linear regression model was applied to identify the factors influencing dairy production and estimate household income difference from dairy production due to formal credit from Zarai Taraqiati Bank Limited (ZTBL). Estimates of the study indicated that agricultural credit facilitated to enhance household income 23.58%, increases herd size 35.5% and raises the average number of milking animals 39.74%. The elasticity of milking animals (0.72%) and agricultural credit (0.139%) is relatively more comparative to education level (0.113%) and family size (0.076 %). In the scenario of findings of the study, it is suggested that policymakers and concerned institutional authorities focus priority to infusion and easy access of credit in formulating easy credit procedures for specifically subsistence farmers which will help in increasing livestock production, reducing poverty and unemployment in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the association of single nucleotide polymorphism of vitamin D receptor gene Fok 1 (rs10735810) with dental caries in Pakistani adolescents. Study Design: Case-control study. Place and Duration of Study: Biochemistry Department, Islamic International Medical College, Rawalpindi in cooperation with Pathology Department, Railway General Hospital, Rawalpindi Pakistan, from Sep 2019 to Aug 2020. Methodology: A total of 304 participants were included in the study. There were 152 dental caries cases and 152 normal agematched controls. After taking written informed consent, blood samples were collected from each participant. DNA extraction was done by Chelex Method. PCR was carried out to determine the respective allelic frequencies of Fok 1 (rs10735810) genotype using specific primers. Results: Out of 304 study participants, there were 26 males (17.1%) and 126 females (82.9%) in case-group; and 37 males (24.3%) and 115 females (75.7%) in control-group. No significant association of Fok 1 (rs10735810) genotype with DMFT score was found in dental caries case-group. Regarding genotypic and allelic frequencies, there was no significant association of Fok 1 (rs10735810) genotype with dental caries case-group. Conclusion: Single nucleotide polymorphism of vitamin D receptor gene Fok 1 (rs10735810) is not associated with dental caries in Pakistani adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pakistan is one of the most climate change– and natural disaster–affected country of the world where livelihood and lives of inhabitants are often affected due to these disasters. In the scenario of various disasters and risks, flood disasters are the most recurrent hazards that cause Bait households' livelihood to be more vulnerable. Hence, this research work has focused to investigate livelihood vulnerability of flood-prone Bait households in southern Punjab of Pakistan. This study used multistage sampling technique for collection of the cross-sectional data of 398 flood disasters vulnerable Bait household's respondents from three high-risk flood-prone districts Muzaffargarh, Rajanpur, and Rahim Yar Khan. Face-to-face interview procedure and well-developed pre-tested questionnaire were used for data collection in this research work. This study applied vulnerability framework of LVI-IPCC and LVI in the direction of comparing the level of vulnerabilities in preferred three Bait district households. Empirical estimates of LVI major components and framework of IPCC vulnerability have indicated Bait households of Muzaffargarh more vulnerable owing to higher exposure and sensitivity and lower adaptive capacity than other districts. In contrast to other districts, Muzaffargarh households have investigated more vulnerable to flood disasters more particularly in LVI sub-components such as health (0.460), water (0.360), and food (0.515) access. These research findings will be helpful to policymakers to work out and put into practice effectual programs and strategies such as constructing more water reserves, developing overhead infrastructure, easy access of institutional loans, and generating off-farm income sources. These local-based feasible measures will be helpful for native inhabitants to reduce frequency of floods in the direction of lessened vulnerability and increased resilience via recovering generally the livelihood of vulnerable Bait households in Punjab Pakistan and particularly the district Muzaffargarh. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) is a pest with an economic impact on various crops and ornamental plants. Different classes of insecticides have been used for P. solenopsis control but rise in resistance is a major concern. Previously resistant selected field populations of P. solenopsis with chlorpyrifos (RR = 15,292-fold), acetamiprid (RR = 10,631-fold), emamectin benzoate (RR = 280-fold), and spinosad (RR = 15,233.84-fold) were used to study the biochemical mechanisms of insecticide resistance in the laboratory. Enzyme assays were performed using P. solenopsis adults in all these resistant populations to determine the activities of different detoxification enzymes associated to different resistance mechanisms to these chemicals. The results revealed that oxidases activity was increased significantly in all selected strains compared with the susceptible strain. The glutathione-S-transferase (GST) activity nevertheless showed a significant change. The esterases (EST) activity was significantly higher in all the selected strains except the emamectin benzoate selected strain compared to the susceptible strain. These results confirm the contribution of oxidases and esterases in detoxification of the tested insecticides in P. solenopsis. This information would help to formulate resistance management strategies for this pest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper highlights the problems associated with the outlets in the irrigation system of Pakistan, leading to the design of outlets, to trace the gradual evolution of various outlets types and to describe most of the types that have been evolved so far. The advantages and limitations of each type have been examined critically so that the selection of a type for any particular set of conditions may be rendered easy. An outlet is a flow measuring and controlling device between farmer's land and an irrigation system. In Punjab about fifty thousand outlets irrigate an area of approximately 25.5 million acres annually. Improperly designed outlets may cause a number of problems such as variation in their coefficients of discharge, inequitable distribution of water, silting of canals, inadequate availability water at the lowest outlets, lack of incentives for saving of water and poor drainage. Field calibration of the irrigation outlets proved that their calibrated Cd. vary from the designed Cd. (0.6 for OF & 0.9 for AOSM), as outlets were not designed according to their designed parameters. Defective outlets were also the main cause of silting in canals. The pipe-cum-semi module was very helpful to draw silt from the bed of the parent channel in a case if we want a higher setting of outlet. 20% of canal water in Rabi season and 40% water in Kharif season were snatched by illegally Theft problem. In order to prevent theft, the outlets should be tamper proof and the irrigation department should adopt the legal procedure strictly. All over the world, the engineers and farmers designed and installed various kinds of farm outlets suiting their local conditions. Work is being carried out to make them structurally, hydraulically and economically fit. An attempt is made to bring all the information together leading to economical and efficient design of outlets and to look upon their possibility of adaptability in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]