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In the modern world of today, English language is frequently used as a medium of communication at the international level and among the multilingual speakers. The grand significance of the English language in the global village stresses all the stakeholders and policymakers in Pakistan to initiate and execute appropriate teaching methods for successful learning of English language. In view of the demands of the modern world, the provincial government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), Pakistan implemented the revised English curriculum and inducted new teachers with better qualification to ensure its desired outcomes. Revised English curriculum, handed over to the newly inducted teachers to implement was supposed to pose a variety of challenges. The current study investigated those challenges faced by these newly inducted teachers implementing revised English curriculum. The study was limited to the newly inducted teachers teaching English at secondary level in district Abbottabad (KPK), Pakistan. Employing a mixed-method research based on purposeful sampling, the data was initially collected through semi structured interviews of the focussed group of the research participants and further validated by means of survey questionnaire filled by the entire research population. The findings of the study revealed that inappropriate classrooms with deficient resources posed major challenges for the teachers to effectively communicate the revised curriculum. Moreover, lack of students' involvement in the lessons and teachers' insufficient awareness to curriculum impeded the curriculum implementation as desired. The current study stressed on the remedial measures to be taken on part of the government officials and the school administration to ensure the availability of resources required for English language learning and encouragement of learners' involvement in the lessons. Moreover, teachers should be provided with appropriate training to meticulously implement the revised English curriculum.

Background: Patient survival has been improved in gynecological cancer due to recent advances in diagnosis and treatment modalities. However longer survival time makes quality of life an even more challenging aspect of care. The aim of study was cross sectional evaluation of the quality of life in Gynecological cancer survivors completing at least 5 years of follow-up after treatment. Materials and Methods: In this prospective, single-center study, 162 women were interviewed at least 3 months after completion of treatment and no longer than 5 years. Data was collected on validated questionnaire i.e. EORTC QLQ-C30 from all participants & specific questionnaires specific to cancers i.e. OV28, CX24 & EN24. Results: The study population comprised of 25 (15.4%), 82 (50.6%) and 55 (34%) women with Cervical, endometrial, and Ovarian cancer, respectively. Average Quality of life was found to be 77.93±16.65. Mean Quality of life was reported as 74.67 in cervical cancer, 77.34 in endometrial cancer & 80.30 in ovarian cancer respectively. Similarly, five functional scales like physical (PF), role (RF), emotional (EF), cognitive (CF) and social (SF) were estimated within the mean range of 80 to 90. Fatigue & insomnia were the most common symptoms reported. Sexual functioning was the main concern among patients included in the study. Other than that, musculoskeletal pain and lymphedema were the main issues reported by patients of endometrial cancer. Conclusion: Study Participants showed overall a good quality of life. However, certain concerns related to sexual quality of life, and chronic lymphedema need special attention to improve quality of care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) is the first Open University in Asia and established in 1974 on the model of UKOU. AIOU uses different media for the delivery of instruction. It has a well established Institute of Educational Technology which has radio and TV production facilities and advance level of work in computer technology. AOU offers diversified courses and programs ranging from literacy to PhD level in its four faculties. The Faculty of Education established in 1984 is the largest faculties of the university with 47% enrolment of the university and contributor of 53% to the total annual university exchequer. At present 30 programs and 135 courses in its eight department/Institutes being run by the faculty. The Faculty offers variety of programs in education and training of teachers and educational professionals. These academic programs range from primary teachers training to M.S/M.Phil and Ph.D. levels in various areas of specializations by its following departments: Secondary Teacher Education, Distance Non Formal and Continuing Education, Educational Planning, Policy studies and leadership, Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education, Special Education and Science Education. The faculty has also chalked out B.Ed (Honors) 4 year degree programme in various specializations. The mode of delivery is absolutely a distance learning mode and various components are devised as teaching methodology which is based on; Study centers and information technology, Radio and TV programs, tutorials, assignments/formative evaluation, workshops/practical, face to face teaching, internship and final examination. The university employs non-formal method of correspondence, radio and television broadcasts, special textbooks and reading materials prepared on self-learning basis, part-time teachers (tutors) engaged nearest to the student's residences. And a system of study centers for applied training is spread throughout Pakistan. There is an effective use of various mediums of communication in AIOU for dissemination of education, including especially designed printed text, radio and television broadcasts and lately inducted instructional CDs. The radio and television programs produced in AIOU support and complement the distance-teaching-based courses of the University. Radio and television programs are transmitted on the national television and radio broadcasting networks. One hour daily television programs on PTV channels and half an hour radio programs through PBC transmission. Non-broadcast audio-visual material is also used for small group instruction and individual study. Hence this case study discusses the practices of delivery at AIOU. (Contains 3 figures and 2 tables.)

The objective of the study was to evaluate the chemical composition and in-situ degradability of untreated and slow-release urea (SU) molasses-treated wheat straw (WS) from genetically improved wheat varieties and its effect on ruminal characteristics of Nili-Ravi buffalo bulls. Wheat straw from genetically improved wheat varieties (n=20, i.e., based on the improved chemical composition) was procured from the Ayyub Agricultural Research Institute, Faisalabad-Pakistan. During the first experiment, chemical analysis of the WS samples (n=20), i.e., dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE), crude fiber (CF), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF) was conducted. Following the chemical evaluation, WS from the six best wheat varieties (n=6 out of n=20) was selected for In-situ degradation kinetics. In the second experiment, WS, based on its degradability characteristics, was selected from genetically improved wheat varieties (n=4 out of n=6) and enriched with three levels of SU, i.e., SU1, SU2, SU3, and a single level of molasses (i.e., 6%). Eight lab silos were used for the ensiling of each variety (8*4*3=96 silos) for 30 days. Three cannulated Nili-Ravi buffalo bulls (body weight 450 Kg±10Kg) were selected for In-situ digestion kinetics of untreated and SU-molasses-treated WS. The lag time, disappearance rate, and extent of DM, CP, NDF, and ADF degradability were analyzed using SAS's GLM procedures. The means of chemical analysis were compared via Tukey’s test. According to the findings, the CP, ash, EE, NDF, ADF, hemicellulose, and cellulose of WS from all the selected wheat varieties were affected (p<0.01) except the DM (p>0.05). Moreover, the chemical composition of SU-molasses enriched WS of genetically improved wheat varieties was also affected (p<0.05). The increased DM, NDF, and ADF content were observed while ensiling the WS with SU1. However, decreased DM, NDF, and ADF proportions were noticed in WS following the SU2 and SU3 ensiling levels (p<0.01). The results of insitu digestion kinetics manifested a considerable variation in DM, CP, NDF, and ADF degradation characteristics of untreated and SU molasses-treated WS (p<0.05). The degradation characteristics of DM, NDF, ADF, and CP reflected the greater extent of digestion and rate of disappearance of ensiled WS with SU2 and SU3 (p<0.01). Whereas, the decreased lag time was observed in SU molasses-ensiled WS compared to the untreated wheat straw (UWS) (p<0.01). The findings of ruminal characteristics showed a linear increase in ruminal pH while increasing the SU enrichment level from SU1 to SU3. The SU3 exhibited the highest pH (6.67) compared with the UWS (6.23). Moreover, a higher concentration of NH3-N (18.3 mg/dl) and BUN (16.29 mg/dl) was observed in SU2. However, a lower concentration of NH3-N (12.72 mg/dl) and BUN (4.68 mg/dl) was observed in UWS. It is concluded that the WS from the genetically improved wheat varieties exhibited an improved nutritional profile. Moreover, the SU-molasses enrichment of WS from these wheat varieties exhibited an improved nutritional profile, In-situ degradability, and ruminal characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An annual herb is known as "Fumitory," Fumaria indica (Hausskn.) Pugsley (Fumariaceae), is a widespread weed in Pakistan's and India's plains. The plantis frequently employed in the Unani and Ayurvedic medical systems, both as a single herb and in different polyherbal preparations. It is helpful for aches, diarrhea, fever, influenza, liver issues, dyspepsia, constipation, vomiting, diuretic, anthelmintic, leukoderma, diaphoretic, blood purification, and for jaundice when combined with black pepper. It has several different chemical components, including carbohydrates, amino acids, proteins, phenolic compounds, alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, glycosides, phytosterols, fixed oils, saponins, steroids, tannins, and more. According to research investigations, this plant has a wide range of pharmacological properties, including antioxidant, analgesic, anticancer, antidiabetic, antibacterial, aphrodisiac, and therapeutic effects on biliary disorders and irritable bowel syndrome. This review focused on the chemical components and pharmacological properties of this plant, which may be useful in future molecular and phytochemical research for the development of medication formulations for the treatment of various ailments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Balanced use of fertilizer is important to achieve optimum yields of wheat. Present study was conducted at farmers' fields in Rice-Wheat and Central mixed cropping zones of Punjab Pakistan for four years from 2019-20 to 2022-23. The objectives of the study were to determine economic optimum dose of nitrogen, phosphorus and potash nutrients for obtaining optimum wheat yields under irrigated conditions. The levels of N used in this study were (0, 53, 106, 160 and 212), for P2O5 were (0, 57, 114 and 171) and for K2O were (0, 30, 60) kg ha-1 of nutrients. These levels were incorporated in 11 treatments combination according to FAO central rotatory design. All P and K were applied at sowing whereas half N was applied at sowing and remaining N was top dressed at first irrigation. Results of 56 field trials conducted in these two zones indicated that 160 and 114 kilograms of N and P2O5 respectively per hectare proved economical doses for getting highest wheat grain yield in both these cropping zones. However, for K2O, the economical doses were 30 and 60 kg ha-1 for central and rice zones respectively. The study will help revisiting the current fertilizer recommendations. More experimentation is needed to go for imparting sitespecific nutrient recommendations for economical crop production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cervical cancer is a major cause of cancer-related deaths among women worldwide. Paucity of data on cervical cancer burden in countries like Pakistan hamper requisite resource allocation. Objective: To estimate the burden of cervical cancer in Pakistan using available data sources. Methods: We performed a systematic review to identify relevant data on Pakistan between 1995 to 2022. Study data identified through the systematic review that provided enough information to allow age specific incidence rates and age standardized incidence rates (ASIR) calculations for cervical cancer were merged. Population at risk estimates were derived and adjusted for important variables in the care-seeking pathway. The calculated ASIRs were applied to 2020 population estimates to estimate the number of cervical cancer cases in Pakistan. Results: A total of 13 studies reported ASIRs for cervical cancer for Pakistan. Among the studies selected, the Karachi Cancer Registry reported the highest disease burden estimates for all reported time periods: 1995–1997 ASIR = 6.81, 1998–2002 ASIR = 7.47, and 2017–2019 ASIR = 6.02 per 100,000 women. Using data from Karachi, Punjab and Pakistan Atomic Energy Cancer Registries from 2015–2019, we derived an unadjusted ASIR for cervical cancer of 4.16 per 100,000 women (95% UI 3.28, 5.28). Varying model assumptions produced adjusted ASIRs ranging from 5.2 to 8.4 per 100,000 women. We derived an adjusted ASIR of 7.60, (95% UI 5.98, 10.01) and estimated 6166 (95% UI 4833, 8305) new cases of cervical cancer per year. Conclusion: The estimated cervical cancer burden in Pakistan is higher than the WHO target. Estimates are sensitive to health seeking behavior, and appropriate physician diagnostic intervention, factors that are relevant to the case of cervical cancer, a stigmatized disease in a low-lower middle income country setting. These estimates make the case for approaching cervical cancer elimination through a multi-pronged strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study extends the previous literature by exploring the effects of a newly discovered driver, i.e., import taxes (as a proxy for commercial policies), on the consumption-based carbon emissions (CCO2e) for 1990Q1-2017Q4. For empirical analysis, several tests and methods, including Augmented Dickey–Fuller unit root test, Zivot–Andrews unit root test, asymmetric cointegration bound testing approach, non-linear ARDL, Wald-test, Granger causality test and wavelet quantile correlation (WQC) method are utilized. Furthermore, NARDL technique estimates reveal that contractionary commercial policy enhances the environmental quality by disrupting the detrimental effects of CCO2e. However, expansionary commercial policy escalates the environmental pollution by boosting the carbon emissions. Also, the exports and the renewable energy improve the ecological quality; however, GDP deteriorates the atmospheric quality by increasing the CCO2e. Besides, WQC method and the trivariate Granger causality test are deployed to confirm the robustness of the results. Based on the findings, some crucial policies are also recommended for sustainable and green development in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poverty is considered a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that can be subjected to various socio‐economic factors. This study aims to assess the potential asymmetric influence of foreign direct investment (FDI) and trade openness, controlling for economic growth, health expenditure, and population size on income poverty in Pakistan from 1972 to 2018 by employing the Non‐Linear Autoregressive‐Distributed Lag (NARDL) approach. The results exhibit the presence of long‐run asymmetries among FDI, trade openness, and income poverty. The results also reveal that poverty reacts to the positive and negative trends in FDI and trade openness atypically. Moreover, the findings also confirm that population growth and health expenditures ameliorate the deleterious repercussions of income poverty. For policy‐makers having an interest in asymmetric nexus among FDI, trade openness, and income poverty. As per the findings, relevant policy level suggestions are recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Percutaneous access to the kidney with the patient in supine position was described in 1998. Although not frequently used in Pakistan there is a constant effort to adopt the supine position, primarily because it offers certain advantages over prone position. Objective: To present our experience in performing supine percutaneous nephrolithotomy and to compare our results with those reported in the international literature. Study type, settings & duration: A retrospective study was conducted at Federal Government Polyclinic hospital Islamabad from January 2015 to January 2020. Methodology: The medical records of 63 patients that underwent supine percutaneous nephrolithotomy were reviewed. The evaluated variables were: age, gender, body mass index, stone location and size, surgery duration, success rate, and complications. Results: A total of 63 patients and 70 kidneys were treated. The mean age of the patients was 41.7 years (16- 76) with predominance of males 37 (58%) while there were 26 (42%) females. Mean body mass index was 25 m 2 (18-34), mean stone size was 31 mm (12-80).Topography of the calculi was pelvic, 17 (24.2%); caliceal system; inferior 16 (22.8%), middle 3 (4.2%), superior 5 (7.14%). and mean duration of surgery was 80 min (30- 160). The first intervention success rate was 90%, the second intervention success rate was 95%, and the complication rate was 11% (Clavien: I and II). Conclusion: Supine percutaneous nephrolithotomy is safe and efficacious, with a high success rate, low complication rate, and undisputable advantages of anesthesia management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Thyroid Disorders represent the most common endocrinopathy in childhood and a preventable cause of growth delay and mental retardation. Clinical manifestations of hypothyroidism are highly variable depending upon etiology, duration, age and severity. True incidence of congenital hypothyroidism in Pakistan is unknown due to lack of community surveys and long awaited national newborn screening program for hypothyroidism. Objective: We aimed to determine the various etiological factors involved in the development of congenital hypothyroidism (CH) in cases coming to a tertiary care center. We also aimed to study the varied clinical presentation of congenitally hypothyroid cases to appreciate early detection and prompt diagnosis. Methodology: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted in the Endocrine Section of Department of Pediatrics, Mayo Hospital, King Edward Medical University (KEMU), Lahore, from July 2012 to January 2019. A predesigned proforma was used to record clinical and biochemical parameters of the Patients. The diagnosis of CH was based on clinical, radiological, and biochemical features. Results: Out of 198 cases of permanent CH, 58.6% (116/198) were female. Among study patients, 33% (66/198) were under the age of 3 years, 32.2% (64/198) aged 3-11 months and 19.7% (39/198) between 1 - 3 years of age. The common clinical features at presentation were constipation 56.6%, unusual facies 53%, learning difficulties 42.4%, mental retardation 39.4%, short stature 38% and goiter 25.8% patients. Regarding aetiology, hormonal dysgenesis (56.5%) and iodine deficiency (26.6%) were found to be the common underlying factors. The association between age at diagnosis with various variables was computed using the Pearson chi-square test. Pvalue less than 0.05 was taken as statistically significant. Conclusion: The high prevalence of iodine deficiency among Patients of CH points towards variable aetiology and importance in community health. The study also emphasizes the need to explore clinical features at different age groups, which help in establishing early diagnosis of CH in the absence of national neonatal screening programs in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The traditional literature has explored various factors including, but not limited to, trade openness, financial development, energy consumption, foreign direct investment, globalization, and per capita income that significantly contribute to carbon emissions. However, the current study identifies aggregate domestic consumption spending as a novel driver of carbon dioxide, employing the data for the period of 1973–2018 in Pakistan. To this end, we develop the theoretical framework to illustrate the link between aggregate domestic consumption spending and carbon dioxide emissions and deploy autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL), asymmetric ARDL, and the threshold non-linear ARDL (NARDL) techniques. The results of the ARDL method suggest that only in the short run, aggregate domestic consumption spending significantly affects carbon dioxide emissions. Furthermore, the findings of the NARDL approach reveal that the positive and negative shocks significantly deteriorate and ameliorate the environmental quality by increasing and decreasing the pollution, respectively, in the short and long run. Even though the outcome of the threshold NARDL technique supports the results of the aforementioned approaches, the novelty of the current study is to find out the threshold in aggregate domestic consumption spending, which carries a significant role in determining the carbon emissions in both periods. Besides, we infer that fossil fuels energy and trade openness also degrade the Pakistani climate by boosting atmospheric pollution. Additionally, the application of the asymmetric Granger causality test validates the results by asserting the casual relationship between aggregate domestic consumption spending and carbon dioxide emissions. Based on the results, we suggest the authorities to start to promote the deployment of green products publicly to obtain green and sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are various strategies used for treating ST-segment elevated myocardial infarction (STEMI). Among those approaches, Primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) is the current treatment of choice for STEMI as it reperfuses the ischaemic cardiac tissue with fewer reported adverse events and a better survival rate. Although thrombolytic therapy is still used for STEMI in approximation, the benefits of PPCI outweigh thrombolytic therapy as thrombolytic therapy is associated with higher bleeding events and higher morbidity. The barriers in implementing a PPCI program and regional differences arise due to limited technologies, lack of proper training of first responders, lack of public awareness, and transport facilities and finances. Therefore, treatment varies between different regions of countries and even between different countries, including Pakistan. PPCI should be used in a timely manner as delayed use of this intervention can significantly reduce the benefits. We lack a coordinated approach to the delivery of this system in Pakistan; mainly, the paramedical staff is not fully familiarised and trained for making a definite diagnosis and lacks referral portals. We need a comprehensive approach and program to identify factors that cause a delay in providing PPCI to STEMI patients and to eliminate the factors responsible for the delay. This will help in improving the survival rate morbidity in STEMI patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Test anxiety is fear, nervousness, and uneasiness for examination. The students who appear in exams usually face these conditions which may be physical, emotional, or behavioral. Mathematics is a compulsory subject till matriculation, so every student faces some anxiety during mathematics class and tests. The foremost purpose of this study is to explore the relationship of mathematics test anxiety with student's performance at the secondary school level in Punjab. For the assessment of anxiety, the research questionnaire was adapted through taking guidelines from Mathematics Anxiety Rating Scale (MARS; Richardson & Suien, 1972). The questionnaire consists of two parts; one question on obtained marks in 9th class mathematics subject in the board examinations and the other portion comprising of 30 questions to rate the mathematics test anxiety. A sample of 260 students was selected through random sampling. Based on data analysis, it was found that there was a strong negative relationship between test anxiety and students' performance in mathematic. This relationship shows that if test anxiety increases, performance will decrease. Further detailed analysis showed that there was a highly significant correlation between the physical and emotional factors of anxiety and achievement of students. Results were consistent with previous researches. The study recommends practical sessions on concept clearance for students, school teachers, and confidence building to overcome anxiety. It is recommended that social and academic guidance for students is the duty of the parents and teachers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To examine the asymmetric effects of militarization on economic growth and environmental degradation, this empirical research analyzes annual data of Pakistan and India over the period 1985–2018 using the NARDL econometric model. The empirical results show significant positive militarization effects on economic growth, while non-militarization also shows positive effects on the economic growth in Pakistan and India. Estimation showed that a 1% increase in militarization (non-militarization) led to 8.818% (3.849%) increase in GDP growth, whereas a 1% increase in militarization (non-militarization) decreased carbon emissions by − 1.034% (− 0.225%) in the long run in Pakistan, while militarization has also decreased the carbon emissions − 0.337% in India in the long run. The relationship between militarization and economic growth has an asymmetry in Pakistan and India in the short and long run, while asymmetry also exists between militarization and CO2 in Pakistan and India in the short and long run. Our findings offer significant policy implications for promoting economic growth and environmental quality in Pakistan and India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this investigation is about the economic effects of Coronavirus, broadly branded as COVID-19. Since its initiation in China, it has cast-iron a large number of lives of human while living millions in isolate in view of viral diseases. Where it brings significant human affliction, it additionally makes worldwide economic interruptions around the world. It obstructs development and smooth activity of businesses of all kinds which badly hamper the balance of trade, exports, imports; public spending, remittances, capital formation process and financial markets all are in the dangers of COVID-19. The whole world goes through a similar example for example curfews and lockdown of changing degrees leaving markets and working environments dead. It stops income age as well as acquires an extraordinary expense to states while managing with worldwide pandemic in the midst of general wellbeing. Accordingly, its economies effects are all the more distressing and subverting. The economies like Pakistan which is already facing political and economic trials is in intimidating position alongside negative developments are confronting a lack of assets to battle with it not to mention bearing income misfortune. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study intends to explore the impact of oscillations in the exchange rate on commodity-wise trade flows between Pakistan and its major trading partner China, while employing the annual data for 1982–2017. Applying the ARDL bounds testing approach, this study confirms that 94% of the selected exporting and 86% of the chosen importing industries possess "cointegration". Further, the findings reveal that 81%, in the short run, and 52%, in the long run, of exporting industries respond to the volatile exchange rate. Moreover, the volatility affects 77%, in the short run, while 65%, in the long term, of the importing industries. Fascinatingly, the findings also indicate that a major shareholder exporting industry coded as 651 ("Textile yarn and thread" with 57% share) gets benefitted from the volatile exchange rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wage disparities research hardly incorporate for the cost of living differences due to data restriction, while the wage disparity issue is the crucial area of economist interest. The study aims to examine the wage disparities between high and low wage cities for Punjab and Sindh province of Pakistan with and without the cost of living, deploying the data of Pakistan Social and Living Standards Measurement Survey (PSLM) with Household Integrated Economic Survey (HIES) for 2005, 2007, 2010, and 2013. Applying the Oaxaca-Blinder estimation method, the findings infer that wage dispersion is high without the cost of living model for both provinces (Punjab and Sindh) as compared to with cost of the living model. Moreover, the results reveal that the wage dispersion is greater in Punjab province than Sindh province. For policymakers, our study suggests that the cost of living is an essential component of the wage dispersion in Pakistan's cities; it should be considered while formulating for wage policy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study inspects the empirical association between inflation instability, GDP growth volatility, and the environmental quality in Pakistan, covering the period 1975–2018 by using an asymmetric autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) methodological approach. The asymmetric ARDL results document that positive and negative shocks of inflation instability have different effects on environmental quality. Negative shocks of inflation instability have a positive influence on carbon dioxide emissions (CO2) and nitrous oxide emissions (N2O), while positive shocks of inflation instability have insignificant effects in the long run. Asymmetric findings also suggest that positive and negative fluctuations in GDP growth volatility affect CO2 and N2O emissions differently, while they have insignificant results on methane emissions (CH4) in the long run. Additionally, in the short run, positive and negative shocks of inflation instability and GDP growth volatility behave differently in terms of their impact on pollution emissions. Based on these findings, the study opens up innovative intuitions for policymakers to support a robust role of economic stability in attaining targets relevant to pollution reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the short-run and long-run asymmetric effects of clean energy consumption on carbon emission in Pakistan, over the annual time period 1975–2018, by using a non-linear ARDL approach. The findings of the study confirm the existence of asymmetries, in the nexus between the clean energy consumption and carbon emission in the short and long run. The findings of non-linear model confirm that carbon emission responded contrary to positive shocks of energy variables as compared with their negative shocks. Asymmetric findings recommend that positive and negative shocks of the alternative and nuclear energy and combustible and waste energy have affected differently. Although, short- and long-run results suggest an insignificant positive and negative relationship between electric power consumption and carbon emissions. Therefore, more taxation of non-renewable energy and clean energy supports are suggested for the Pakistan economy. We concluded that Pakistan has potential in clean energy which will improve environmental quality in the near future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Public policy is an important issue in the context of international arbitration and, for that matter, domestic arbitration. However, in respect of the former there appears to be progressively a more restrictive approach applied globally than in the latter. Since the public policy issues could prove to be a stumbling block to the recognition or enforcement of a foreign arbitral award in the concerned country's courts, an international arbitral tribunal should be mindful of the matter, though challenging, while rendering the award. The best guide for an international arbitral tribunal would be to look into the recognising or enforcing country's law and practice in the context. The article is concerned with the public policy issues for the recognition or enforcement of foreign arbitral awards in the three major countries of the Indian subcontinent such as India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. These countries have historically had the common heritage of the English common law system which influences their respective laws, court decisions and jurisprudence. Thus, the article examines the public policy issues in the context of international arbitration in these countries in light of the English common law and international arbitration law and practice so that international arbitrators could draw upon the findings of the study while rendering arbitral awards, and when it is so relevant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

South Asia means one-fourth population of the world, comprises 7 countries, and the most backward region of the world, educationally, economically and in human development index. On the other hand, historically was a rich region with most ancient and educated civilization of the world before colonial rule. The aim of the study was to examine professional attitude of teachers and their psychological satisfaction level towards work culture after adopting teaching profession at university level in the region of South Asia. The researcher explored three major components of attitude called ABC model, A for Affective, B for Behavior and C for Cognitive to explore teaching attitude. The researcher investigate psychological satisfaction level in teachers specify with three factors called intrinsic extrinsic and altruistic. The study was non-experimental in its nature with descriptive study design. All teachers of public universities of the south Asian region were the population of the study. Out of three hundred sample teachers, 233 teachers participated in the research from 8 universities. After reviewing the literature two questionnaires were constructed by the researcher for discovering attitude towards teaching ten statements and satisfaction level of teachers towards teaching after adopting teaching profession eight statements at point Likert scale. Pilot testing of the instruments was also conducted. Overall reliability of instruments on Cronbach's Alpha is (a = .91), while attitude (a = .77) and satisfaction was (a = .80) accordingly. Each questionnaire was on five point Likert scale. On the basis of the information it was decided to apply a parametric test One Sample T Test and to check relationship a Pearson correlation test were applied. Results of the study show that teachers have positive attitude towards teaching and teachers were low satisfied after adopting teaching profession. According to findings many suitable suggestion were provided by researcher. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current research aimed to examine the relationship of education and poverty (wealth index). The secondary data is utilized to find the theoretical relationships among the research variables while statistical procedures have been used to examine statistical relationships among the variables. Tor this purpose, current research utilizes the following tests likewise the correlation analysis, multiple comparison test and Chi square to examine statistical connection and to reach conclusion. In this regard, the results described that males attain more money as compare to the females and education is more critical factor for the elimination of poverty. The people who belong to middle and above standard of the education are richer than the people of who belongs to primary or below level. Moreover, the results indicate that uneducated people are suffering lowest level of poverty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT A study was conducted based on four years experiments (2013-14 to 2016-17) at Vegetable Research Institute, AARI, Faisalabad for tomato production influenced by temperature variations to design a model for tomato cultivation in different locations of Pakistan. Results revealed that the best yield of 31.3 t/ha and 29.8 t/ha in two pickings was obtained when fruit setting took place at a temperature ranged 9.9-25.4 oC and 11.8-24.3 oC, which was available during the intervals from 21-28 February and 1-10 March, respectively. These findings and temperature thresholds for different growth stages were considered for crop modeling assuming that tomato crop sets fruits in a temperature range of 10-30 oC. Pakistan lies in subtropical region and in many locations this temperature range is naturally available for a certain period during the year which could be exploited for tomato crop production. Different locations of Pakistan were also screened and suitable periods were assigned for tomato crop production on the basis of climate normals (1981-2015). According to the model, indeterminate tomato production could be achieved in 43 locations of Pakistan where 8-12 months of suitable temperature is available for crop production. Similarly there are 55 locations available for the cultivation of semi-determinate crop with 6 - 7 months of appropriate temperature period and likewise 24 locations could be used for the production of determinate / short duration crop requiring only 4-5 months span of favorable temperature. Nursery plants and main crop will be grown under protected conditions wherever necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sarsabz, a high yielding, well adapted and bold-seeded pea variety was evolved by hybridizing two varieties Meteor and Lampo at Vegetable Research Institute, Faisalabad Pakistan. The variety was tested in replicated varietal/station yield trials and multi-locational trials from 2001 to 2014. Sarsabz gave higher green pod yield (8.52 t/ha) than existing pea varieties i.e. Pea-2009 (7.51 t/ha) and Meteor (6.86 t/ha) and Climax (6.94 t/ha) on average basis. It yielded 13% more than better check (Pea-2009). The most distinguishing trait of this variety is its greater pod width (2.04 cm) than Pea-2009 (1.87 cm), Meteor (1.59 cm) and Climax (1.61 cm) and more No. of pods per plant. Sarsabz is 27 days earlier in pod bearing than Climax and five days than Pea-2009. It is suitable for early planting (mid of October) as well as for normal planting (Mid of November). Its seed is light green, round and bold and its average 100-fresh seed weight is 67.62 g which is greater than Climax (48.4 g), Pea-2009 (67 g) and Meteor (44.18 g). This variety/line has the ability to tolerate against root rot and powdery mildew diseases of pea crop. The newly approved variety has potential to moderately resist to collar rot disease as compared with all other existing varieties. Studies on organoleptic characteristics showed that Sarsabz is less sweet in taste than Pea-2009, suitable for all types of dishes. This variety was approved by Punjab Seed Council and its seed is available for dissemination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of non-genetic factors such as the period of calving, season of calving, and parity on economically important productive and reproductive traits in crossbred cows (Holstein Friesian × Sahiwal) maintained at livestock experiment station Qadirabad Sahiwal, Pakistan. The study ranged from 1995 to 2014 (20 years). The duration of 20 years was divided into 4 periods (P1, P2, P3, and P4) with each period consisting of five years. Each year was further divided into three seasons winter (November-February), summer (March-June), and spring (July-October) based on geo-climatic conditions prevailing in the region. The parameters used as indicators of reproductive performance in this study were age at first calving (AFC), days open (DO), dry period (DP) and calving interval (CI). The overall least squares mean and standard errors for these reproductive parameters were 1235.23±45.81, 202.08±6.75, 178.4±6.85 and 482±5.97 days, respectively. While productive parameters were lactation milk yield 305 d(LMY), daily milk yield, and Lactation length (LL), and the least squares mean and standard errors of these were 2471.44±78.44 kg,8.07±0.27kg and306.22±4.84 days, respectively. Twenty years (20) data of 641 lactation records of crossbred cows representing the variance analyses indicated that significant (P≤0.05) effect of season of calving on age at first calving (AFC), days open (DO), lactation length (LL), and lactation milk yield (LMY). Least-squares means illustrated that the period of calving also significantly (P≤0.00) affects lactation milk yield (LMY) lactation length (LL) and dry period (DP). Similarly, a significant (P≤0.00) effect of parity on lactation milk yield (LMY), dry period (DP), days open (DO), and calving interval (CI) was noted. It is therefore concluded that the reproductive and productive performance of these crossbred cows is affected by some non-genetic factors and breeders must consider the season of calving, period of calving and parity in the management program because they greatly affect the farm productivity and profitability and they must select animals with higher breeding values to be the parent of the next generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Media discourse has been a major place for the discursive production of subjective realities. The present work is an attempt to find out how print media in Pakistan is constructing the political realities, and how power relations are maintained through which media power influences the political process. This study focuses on reporting practices of Pakistani English newspapers regarding the political speeches of prominent Pakistani political leaders. For this purpose reports from leading English newspapers namely, The News, Dawn, and The Express Tribune have been taken as representative texts for the coverage of the political speeches delivered by Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif, Imran Khan and Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. Critical Discourse Analysis has been taken as a theory and method to study discursively the representation of political discourse in Pakistan. Therefore, some features of macro-structure and schematic structure like mitigation and intensification, overall organization of the texts, selection of quotations, beginning and ending of the media texts and placement of argumentation from van Dijk's Socio-cognitive Model of discourse analysis have been taken to analyze the print media reports. The present study explores a variety of discursive practices in the portrayal of the discourse of Pakistani politicians. Hence, those techniques employed by English print media in Pakistan influence political discourse that results in projecting and/or curtailing the image of the political figures. Consequently, the media discourse plays a critical role, in the overall political process, in shaping the public perception. Moreover, mainstream Pakistani English newspapers, at least those included in this study, construct and shape the political events according to their preferred agendas. As a result, they exercise their power to control and direct the minds of the readers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To assess the effect of health education in improving the knowledge and practice of oral hygiene in a rural community of district Bhakkhar. STUDY DESIGN: Non Randomized Design (before and after design). PLACE AND DURATION: At 12 Union Councils of District Bhakkar, Punjab. Duration is 12 months 15th April 2014 to 1st April 2015. METHODOLOGY: Total of 1739 individuals were interviewed before the oral health/hygiene education sessions and were reinterviewed after 3 months using the same close ended questionnaire to assess the effect of oral health counseling. A total of 51 awareness sessions on oral hygiene were conducted in small groups. The data was collected from the subjects mainly focusing on oral hygiene knowledge and practices. RESULTS: The knowledge about the oral health/hygiene, diseases related to it, methods of brushing the teeth etc. improved among the community members after the intervention, which was found to be statistically significant. Before the awareness session only 16% had knowledge about the caries which increased to 31% in post-test. Similarly, more people started to adopt healthy oral hygiene practices on regular basis (pre 49% and post 70%). CONCLUSION: The findings of the study showed that health education sessions had a profound effect on raising knowledge about different aspects of oral health and improving practices of the respondents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hand hygiene is one of the primary measures to reduce healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs). There is a need to explore the concept of hand hygiene among the medical graduates. Objective: To assess the knowledge and perception of hand hygiene among house officers in a tertiary health care centre. Patients and Methods: This cross sectional survey was conducted in the departments of Paediatrics, Internal Medicine, Surgery and Obstetrics / Gynaecology, in affiliated hospitals of King Edward Medical University / Mayo Hospital, Lahore from October to December 2015. World Health Organization's validated hand hygiene knowledge and perception questionnaire was used. A total of 100 fresh medical graduates, who passed their MBBS in March - April 2015, working as house officers were included in the study by non-probability convenient sampling. The data were entered in SPSS 20 for statistical analysis. Chi square test was used for comparison. Results: Of 100 house officers approached, 67 participated in this study. Only 20 (29%) had received formal training in hand hygiene and 40 (59%) practiced routine use of alcohol hand rub. The study did not document satisfactory level of knowledge regarding hand hygiene. Overall, 27 (40.3%) house officers had correct knowledge of main route of transmission of potential harmful germs, while 23 (34.3%) house officers had correct knowledge of main source of germs in HCAI. Only, 41 (61.2%) house officers correctly knew of 20 seconds as the minimum time required for effective alcohol-based hand rub. The house officers were of the opinion that alcohol - based hand rub must be available at health - care facility at each point of care and awareness posters should be displayed at same points as reminders. Actions taken by leaders and managers regarding effective measures towards hand hygiene were considered effective in improving the hand hygiene practices. Conclusion: The unsatisfactory level of knowledge regarding hand hygiene indicates that the house officers require increased emphasis on hand hygiene education and improvement in their current primary training as well as undergraduate curricula. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nonphotosensitive trichothiodystrophy (TTDN) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder of neuroectodermal origin. The condition is marked by hair abnormalities, intellectual impairment, nail dystrophies and susceptibility to infections but with no UV sensitivity. Methods: We identified three consanguineous Pakistani families with varied TTDN features and used homozygosity mapping, linkage analysis, and Sanger and exome sequencing in order to identify pathogenic variants. Haplotype analysis was performed and haplotype age estimated. A splicing assay was used to validate the effect of the MPLKIP splice variant on expression. Results: Affected individuals from all families exhibit several TTDN features along with a heart-specific feature, i.e. mitral regurgitation. Exome sequencing in the probands from families ED168 and ED241 identified a homozygous splice mutation c.339 + 1G > A within MPLKIP. The same splice variant co-segregates with TTDN in a third family ED210. The MPLKIP splice variant was not found in public databases, e.g. the Exome Aggregation Consortium, and in unrelated Pakistani controls. Functional analysis of the splice variant confirmed intron retention, which leads to protein truncation and loss of a phosphorylation site. Haplotype analysis identified a 585.1-kb haplotype which includes the MPLKIP variant, supporting the existence of a founder haplotype that is estimated to be 25,900 years old. Conclusion: This study extends the allelic and phenotypic spectra of MPLKIP-related TTDN, to include a splice variant that causes cardiomyopathy as part of the TTDN phenotype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ICTs are currently being used in developed and developing countries to improve access to sources of knowledge for both patients and health care providers. However, the undersized health and ICT sector in a country such as Pakistan limit its potential and wider benefits. Adoption of eHealth is a change process demanding lot of behavioral modifications in the work-environment for health workers particularly the doctors. Successful implementation and use of IT-applications in healthcare organizations is neither automatic nor purely technical process. It is rather a social process requiring less science and more art of developing, implementing and successfully using the new systems. Thus success and failure of any digital initiative in the healthcare organizations is squarely dependent more on the questions of use than on the issues of development. The technologies have gradually become less expensive and universally available. The only technical issue in the way of computerizing health services in the developing states like Pakistan is the readiness of healthcare professionals to adopt and use digital technologies. E-Health implementation on average is lower in public sector hospitals of Pakistan than private sector counterparts. Options for capacity development in health informatics are very limited in Pakistani institutions and have been reviewed on limited scale by the researchers; hence, it needs to be explored through available literature. This study aims to determine the readiness of doctors for successful e-projects' implementation programs in the current situation and the way forward for policy makers in managing this critical issue in future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose Short Tandem Repeat (STR) genetic markers hold great potential in forensic investigations, molecular diagnostics and molecular genetics research. AmpFlSTR(r) Identifiler(tm) PCR amplification kit is a multiplex system for co-amplification of 15 STR markers used worldwide in forensic investigations. This study attempts to assess forensic validity of these STRs in Pakistani population and to investigate its applicability in quick and simultaneous diagnosis and tracing parental source of common chromosomal aneuploidies. Methodology Samples from 554 healthy Pakistani individuals from 5 different ethnicities were analyzed for forensic parameters using Identifiler STRs and 74 patients' samples with different aneuploidies were evaluated for diagnostic strengths of these markers. Results All STRs hold sufficient forensic applicability in Pakistani population with paternity index between 1.5 and 3.5, polymorphic information content from 0.63 to 0.87 and discrimination power ≥ 0.9 (except TPOX locus). Variation from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium was observed at some loci reflecting selective breeding and intermarriages trend in Pakistan. Among aneuploidic samples, all trisomies were precisely detectable while aneuploidies involving sex chromosomes or missing chromosomes were not clearly detectable using Identifiler STRs. Parental origin of aneuploidy was traceable in 92.54% patients. Conclusion The studied STR markers are valuable tools for forensic application in Pakistan and utilizable for quick and simultaneous identification of some common trisomic conditions. Adding more sex chromosome specific STR markers can immensely increase the diagnostic and forensic potential of this system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study in hand analyses the importance and value of Pakistan's textiles and clothing export to the EU. The Correlation, Co-integration and the Error Correction Model (ECM) analyses are used. The Correlation results reveal that there exists a strong degree of association between the EU's total textiles and clothing imports and her imports of the same products from Pakistan. Same is true for three major textile and clothing categories (26, 65 and 84). The Co-integration analysis shows that there exists co-movement between the EU's total textiles and clothing imports and her imports from Pakistan, only in case of 65-category textiles, reflecting the fact that Pakistan's performance in this category of textiles is satisfactory, relative to the other two categories. The 84-category textile and clothing products need special attention as these are relatively more important from the value addition point of view. There is a need of conducting research for finding out and identifying the textiles and clothing products which have strong preferred market in the EU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infrastructure is the backbone of every CBIS irrespective of the field or organization. Digital technologies are not only expensive but also demand professionalism for successful execution of e-Projects. However the availability of basic infrastructure is indispensable. The research reports that infrastructural issues are dominating the research on e-projects in all organizations including health sector. This becomes more critical in the background of developing states like Pakistan. This paper aims at pinpointing the widely reported barriers to e-health projects emanating from the infrastructural availability and its maintenance with focus on developing countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the findings from a survey study that aimed to investigate the practices of writing assignments among distance learners. It was conducted in Allama Iqbal Open University, Islamabad. The students enrolled in the postgraduate program along with their tutors were taken as a sample. A total of 500 students and 50 tutors took part in the study. Data were collected through questionnaires. The study found that distance learners were poor in writing their assignments due to difficulty in understanding the study material, a lack in guidance from their tutor, domestic/job circumstances, and their absences from tutorial meetings. The study recommended TV/CD support for writing assignments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Claims about the positive influence of emotional intelligence (EI) on work team performance are very numerous, both in commercial and scientific literature. In this study, EI was assessed using the Wong and Law Emotional Intelligence Scale (WLEIS). Paper examined the relationship between emotional intelligence and performance of 15 teams selected from higher education institutes of Pakistan. A single questionnaire was used to gather data from the teams, each team consisting of 5-15 members. Simple and multiple regression was applied to investigate the relationships between emotional intelligence as a whole and team performance and then between different dimensions of emotional intelligence. Results indicated that emotional intelligence had positive impact on team performance. The study recommended that experimental study may be conducted to compare the performance of teams before and after providing the training on emotional intelligence so that a clear picture may emerge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This peace of research has been conducted, as part of PhD research of the first author, with the objectives to (i) identify various protection policies and interventions exercised in Basmati rice economy in Pakistan (ii) estimate welfare effects associated with existing protection policies and (iii) to estimate implications of WTO's trade liberalisation in domestic economy and foreign markets. The quantitative analysis of data reveals that Basmati rice crop hanged about 'price tax-cum-export tax' regime during the study period. Welfare analysis of such policy interventions estimated higher losses to producers (Pak Rs 657.95 million per year) than gains to consumers (Rs 448.76 million per year) during pre-WTO period. The same trend continued during post-WTO period but producers' losses were comparatively smaller i.e., 649.48 million per year. In case of free trade, simulation results demonstrate greater gains to producers than losses to consumers. If world market was liberalised, supplementary gains in the range of Rs 276.65 million to Rs 451.60 million per year during earlier and Rs 333.45 million to Rs 637.40 million per year during the later period would have occurred at domestic level. In light of analytical results, the following recommendations are made. (i) Government needs to curtail interventions in Basmati rice economy. (ii) Besides, improving the pace of trade liberalisation at domestic level, Pakistan should pursue with other members in WTO's negotiations for early implementation of WTO's trade liberalisation on international level. (iii) Government of Pakistan should gear up its efforts as facilitator of trade in accordance with WTO agreements and increase investment in areas of research, development, and out-reach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Autosomal recessive hypotrichosis is a rare genetic irreversible hair loss characterized by sparse scalp hair, sparse to absent eyebrows and eyelashes, and sparse axillary and body hair. Affected male individuals have normal beard hair. Objectives To search for pathogenic mutations in the human P2RY5 gene in Pakistani families with autosomal recessive hereditary hypotrichosis. Methods In the present report, 16 unrelated consanguineous Pakistani families having multiple affected individuals with autosomal recessive hypotrichosis were investigated. Linkage in these families was searched by genotyping microsatellite markers linked to autosomal recessive hypotrichosis loci LAH1, LAH2 and LAH3. Thirteen of the families showed linkage to the LAH3 locus on chromosome 13q14.11–q21.32. These families were then subjected to direct sequencing of the P2RY5 gene, which encodes a G protein-coupled receptor. Results Sequence analysis of the P2RY5 gene revealed two novel missense mutations (c.742A>T; p.N248Y and c.830C>T; p.L277P) in three families. Five previously described mutations including three missense (c.188A>T; p.D63V, c.436G>A; p.G146R, c.562A>T; p.I188F), one insertion (c.69insCATG; p.24insHfsX52) and one complex deletion (c.172–175delAACT; 177delG; p.N58–L59delinsCfsX88) were detected in the other 10 families. Conclusions Mutations revealed in the present study extend the body of evidence implicating the P2RY5 gene in the pathogenesis of human hereditary hair loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Autosomal recessive hypotrichosis is a rare form of alopecia characterized by sparse hair on scalp, sparse to absent eyebrows and eyelashes, and sparse auxiliary and body hair. Previously, for this form of hypotrichosis, two loci LAH (localized hereditary hypotrichosis) and AH (autosomal recessive hereditary hypotrichosis) have been mapped on chromosome 18q12.1 and 3q27.2, respectively. In the study presented here, we report the localization of a third locus for autosomal recessive form of hypotrichosis in two large Pakistani families. The patients in the two families exhibited typical features of the hereditary hypotrichosis. Genome scan using polymorphic microsatellite markers mapped the gene on chromosome 13q14.11–q21.32. A maximum combined two-point logarithm of odds (LOD) score of 4.79 at θ= 0.0 was obtained for several markers. Multipoint linkage analysis resulted in a maximum LOD score of 5.9, which further supports the linkage. Haplotype analysis defined the linkage interval of 17.35 cM flanked by markers D13S325 and D13S1231 according to the Rutgers combined linkage-physical map. This region contains 24.41 Mb according to the build 36 of the human genome sequence-based physical map. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Ectodermal dysplasias (EDs) describe a large and complex group of disorders characterized by abnormal development of the skin and appendages (hair, nails, teeth and sweat glands). Of the approximately 200 different EDs, about 30 have been studied at the molecular level. In an effort to understand the molecular bases of ED of hair and nail type, we studied a Pakistani consanguineous family with multiple affected individuals. Objectives To localize the gene responsible for the autosomal recessive form of ED of hair and nail type. Methods Genotyping of nine members of the family, including five affected and four normal individuals was performed using microsatellite markers mapping to candidate regions, harbouring genes involved in related phenotypes. Five epithelial keratin genes located in the candidate region were sequenced to identify the pathogenic mutation. Results We mapped the disease locus to a 24·2-cM interval flanked by markers D17S839 and D17S1299 on chromosome 17p12–q21.2 ( Zmax = 4·4). DNA sequencing of five epithelial keratin candidate genes, present in the disease locus, did not reveal any pathogenic mutation in the affected individuals. Conclusions The gene for ED of hair and nail type has been mapped to chromosome 17p12–q21.2 in a Pakistani consanguineous family. Failure to detect mutations in epithelial keratin genes suggests that the mutation may lie either in regulatory regions of one of the epithelial keratin genes or in another unknown gene, located in the linkage interval, with a possible role in the development of ectodermal appendages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents an assessment of fluoroquinolone resistance in multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR TB) strains based on data from the clinical laboratory of the Aga Khan University Hospital in Pakistan from 2005-2009. A total of 11,263 cultures were reported positive for Mycobacterium tuberculosis during the period, 34.4% of which were MDR and 50.1% were sensitized to all four first-line agents. For fluoroquinolones, resistance rates rose from 17.41% in 2005 to 42.92% in 2009. Also noted is the detection of increasing fluoroquinolone resistance in non-MDR, polydrug-resistant M.tuberculosis isolates. It acknowledges the implications of the findings for therapy with fluoroquinolones.

The use of quality pesticides has become indispensable for effective crop protection and environmental safety. In Punjab, four provincial Pesticide Quality Control Laboratories (PQCs) and Task Force keep check the quality and adulteration of the pesticides in the light of Agricultural Pesticides Ordinance (APO) 1971. In 2012-13, the consumption of pesticides decreased compared to past decades because of the extensive cultivation of Bt cotton and the more favorable climatic conditions. Recently, pesticide samples collected for quality assessment were observed under Pesticide Regulatory Programme (PRP) i.e. 9578 samples in 2016-17 compared to 5935 samples in 2006-2007. The data of all the provincial labs were collected at Institute of Soil Chemistry and Environmental sciences, AARI, Faisalabad, Pakistan during 2017. Results explored that the trend of unfit sample on an average is about 4.50% annually with some exceptions. The unfit ratio of multinational branded pesticide samples was much lower than generic pesticide samples. To make the Pesticide Quality Control Programme (PQCP) more effective, the provincial government has made Punjab Agricultural Pesticide Act 2012 after incorporating further amendments in APO 1971 which will be effective after 18th constitutional amendment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]