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This study investigates the impact of corporate environmental protection efforts on firm‐level operating risk. The importance of environmental protection has gained attention in recent years, as proliferation in ESG rating agencies has significantly increased. As suggested by stakeholder theory, the corporations for their survival are required to take care of the environment in which they operate. We used a sample of 245 non‐financial publicly listed firms of developing economy, Pakistan, from 2007 to 2019, to examine whether firms that engage in environmental protection activities have lower operating risk than firms that do not. We identified four important dimensions based on previous literature, to develop a unique index for measuring the firms' environmental performance. These dimensions included voluntary standardization, product environmental compliance, process environmental compliance, and environmental social drives. Focused on downside operating risk in terms of firm operating income, we used binary codes to distinguish firms that are negatively deviating from their industrial average. Using logistic regression on our hand‐collected environmental performance index data, this study finds that firms maintaining effective environmental protection activities are less likely to experience operational failure compared to peers who do not. This relationship holds true even after controlling for various firm‐specific factors such as firm size, leverage, growth opportunity, and profitability. Our findings have implications for policymakers and corporate managers who seek to improve their firms' environmental and financial performance simultaneously. By highlighting the potential benefits of corporate environmental protection efforts, our study provides valuable insights for firms operating in emerging economies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study empirically investigates the linkage between boardroom independence and the financial performance of non-financial firms in an emerging market featured by family-controlled businesses and concentrated ownership. The relationship is tested in a sample of 152 non-financial firms listed on the Pakistan Stock Exchange over a period from 2003 to 2018. Firms' financial performance is measured through return on assets (ROA), return on equity (ROE), market-to-book ratio (MBR), and Tobin's Q (TQ), while boardroom independence is measured through the proportion of non-executive directors on the corporate board. Using the dynamic GMM approach to address the possibility of endogeneity, it was found that boardroom independence is significantly negatively related to the financial performance of the sample firms. This negative impact is due to the reason of close ties of outside independent directors (non-executive directors) with dominant shareholders and management in personal, financial, and social terms. A significant negative influence of the board size and CEO duality on firms' financial performance was also observed. The present study will add to the existing literature on corporate governance and firm financial performance using firm-level manually collected data. Further, our findings will also help the policymakers by providing empirical insights for strengthening corporate governance mechanisms in emerging market economies, specifically in the context of Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to investigate the role of field-configuring events (FCEs) and situational context in the institutionalisation of sustainability reporting (SR) in Pakistan. Design/methodology/approach: This paper uses insights from the institutional logics perspective and qualitative research design to analyse the interplay of the institutional logics, FCEs, situational context and social actors' agency for the institutionalisation of SR among leading corporations in Pakistan. A total of 28 semi-structured interviews were carried out and were supplemented by analysis of secondary data including reports, newspaper articles and books. Findings: The emerging field of SR in Pakistan is shaped by societal institutions, where key social actors (regulators, enablers and reporters) were involved in the institutionalisation of SR through FCEs. FCEs provided space for agency and were intentionally designed by key social actors to promote SR in Pakistan. The situational context connected the case organisations with FCEs and field-level institutional logics that shaped their decision to initiate SR. Overall, intricate interplay of institutional logics, FCEs, situational context and social actors' agency has contributed to the institutionalisation of SR in Pakistan. Corporate managers navigated institutional logics based on situational context and initiated SR that is aligned with corporate goals and stakeholder expectations. Practical implications: For corporate managers, this paper highlights the role of active agency in navigating and integrating institutional logics and stakeholders' expectations in their decision-making process. For practitioners and policymakers, this paper highlights the importance of FCEs and situational context in the emergence and institutionalisation of SR in developing countries. From a societal point of view, dominance of business actors in FCEs highlights the need for non-business actors to participate in FCEs to shape logics and practice of SR for wider societal benefits. Social implications: From a societal point of view, dominance of business actors in FCEs highlights the need for non-business actors to participate in FCEs to shape logics and practice of SR for wider societal benefits. Originality/value: This paper focuses on the role of FCEs and situational context as key social mechanisms for explaining the institutionalisation of SR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents a comprehensive investigation of the Paleocene coal in the Tirah area, District Khyber, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, utilizing onsite Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) and Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) experiments combined with geochemical analyses of obtained coal-rock samples. ERT and GPR profiles, along with geochemical data, were collected and meticulously analyzed to assess the potential and quality of coal seams based on coal ranking, aiming to delineate their spatial distribution and future exploitation prospects. The study reveals a wide range of resistivity values, spanning from 8.93 Ωm to 2472 Ωm. The uppermost layer, comprising silt and clay with water saturation, exhibits resistivity values ranging from 8.93 Ωm to 50 Ωm. The subsequent stratum, characterized by wet sandstone with minor shale and clay, has resistivity values between 50 Ωm and 95.3 Ωm. Significantly, the zone with resistivity values between 95.3 Ωm and 800 Ωm is identified as the probable host of the coal seams. Based on the results, the coal seams are estimated to exist at depths ranging from 14 to 23 m, with resistivity values between 95.3 Ωm and 800 Ωm. GPR results further corroborate these findings, revealing coal-bearing strata at various depths, thus confirming the ERT results. Additionally, proximate and ultimate analysis provided insights into the quality of the coal, with average concentration values of moisture content (6.95%), ash content (22.12%), volatile matter (28.55%), fixed carbon (42.40%), carbon content (55.35%), hydrogen (4.7%), nitrogen (0.95%), sulfur (4.82%), and oxygen (10.06%). Comparative analyses of the obtained results with local coals from the Salt Range in Punjab, Pakistan, and coal from Ogboyaga, Nigeria, confirm that the studied coal ranks as sub-bituminous. This comprehensive assessment offers valuable insights into the potential and quality of Paleocene coal in the studied region and is applicable to other areas with similar geological settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to identify and explain the hidden factors contributing to victimization and revictimization of women in Pashtun society. This study was conducted insix districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, district Peshawar, Nowshera, Mardan, Abbottabad, Upper Dir and Swat. This study applied qualitative research method. A total of 30 victims of sexual abuse were interviewed in 06 districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with the victims of sexual abuse. In this study, sexual abuse was measured as non-consensual sexual contact that caused physical and emotional harm to the victim. Victims of sexual assault or harassment in the absence of physical contact were excluded from this study. The main findings included inequality, domesticity, poverty and economic dependency that made women vulnerable to victimization and revictimization. The victim-prone-model basically shows these factors that underpin each other and change in a cycle. One factor supports the other and the successive factor is basically the outcome of the former. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Theileria is the tick-borne disease-causing agent responsible for theileriosis in various animals. Like other tick-borne pathogens, the epidemiology, associated risk factors and genetic diversity of Theileria spp. have mostly remained unexplored in the region. The current study was designed to analyze the epidemiology, associated risk factors, and molecular characterization of Theileria spp. in the selected districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Among the chosen districts, the highest infection was found in Upper Dir, while the most prevalent species was Theileria annulata clustered with sequences for the same species reported from Pakistan, China, and Italy. The risk factors associated with Theileria infection included age, gender, breeds, feeding system, hygienic measure, farming system, stall system, and seasons. The microscopic examination, in combination with the molecular approach, will enhance the early diagnosis and accurate identification of Theileria spp. and facilitate effective control strategies against these parasites. Theileria annulata is a tick-associated parasite that causes tropical theileriosis in livestock and is responsible for huge economic losses. Studies have been neglected on the effect of Theileria spp. on cattle in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Pakistan. The present study was designed to determine the genetic diversity and assess the risk factors associated with Theileria infection in selected districts of KP. Information on the risk factors related to the Theileria infection was collected through a questionnaire. Blood samples were collected from symptomatic cattle from January 2019 to February 2020, identified morphologically through microscopic examination, and processed for molecular characterization using the 18S rRNA gene as a genetic marker. Of the 555 cattle examined (136, 24.5%) and (294, 53%) were found positive for Theileria spp. by microscopic examination and a PCR test, respectively. Based on the PCR test, the highest prevalence of infection was found in district Upper Dir (46/75, 61.3%), followed by Lower Dir (54/90, 60%); Malakand (51/88, 57.9%); Peshawar (40/80, 50%); and Charsadda (52/112, 46.4%), with the lowest in Bajaur (51/110, 46.34%). A BLAST analysis of the 18S rDNA sequences showed 99.5% identity with T. annulata. In a phylogenetic tree, the 18S rDNA sequence of T. annulata clustered with sequences from Pakistan, China, and Italy. A significant association was observed between the prevalence of infection and different host characteristics. The highest infection was found in adult cattle (216/360, 60%); females (218/377, 57.8%); and Holstein Friesian (120/180, 66.6%). Theileria infection was significantly associated with management practices. Higher infection rates were observed in free-grazing cattle (190/412, 42.2%); those kept in unhygienic conditions (246/405, 60.7%); cattle in combined farming systems (165/255, 64.8%); and those in congested stall systems (150/218, 68.8%). Seasonal patterns were found to be significantly associated with infection, and a higher infection rate was observed in summer (215/350, 61.4%) than in winter (79/205, 38.5%). Identified risk factors should be considered in designing practical control approaches to reduce the burden of Theileria infection. Large scale studies are required to explore the diversity of Theileria species in KP, Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A complex structural geology generally leads to significant consequences for hydrocarbon reservoir exploration. Despite many existing wells in the Kadanwari field, Middle Indus Basin (MIB), Pakistan, the depositional environment of the early Cretaceous stratigraphic sequence is still poorly understood, and this has implications for regional geology as well as economic significance. To improve our understanding of the depositional environment of complex heterogeneous reservoirs and their associated 3D stratigraphic architecture, the spatial distribution of facies and properties, and the hydrocarbon prospects, a new methodology of three-dimensional structural modeling (3D SM) and joint geophysical characterization (JGC) is introduced in this research using 3D seismic and well logs data. 3D SM reveals that the field in question experienced multiple stages of complex deformation dominated by an NW to SW normal fault system, high relief horsts, and half-graben and graben structures. Moreover, 3D SM and fault system models (FSMs) show that the middle part of the sequence underwent greater deformation compared to the areas surrounding the major faults, with predominant one oriented S30°–45° E and N25°–35° W; with the azimuth at 148°–170° and 318°–345°; and with the minimum (28°), mean (62°), and maximum (90°) dip angles. The applied variance edge attribute better portrays the inconsistencies in the seismic data associated with faulting, validating seismic interpretation. The high amplitude and loss of frequency anomalies of the sweetness and root mean square (RMS) attributes indicate gas-saturated sand. In contrast, the relatively low-amplitude and high-frequency anomalies indicate sandy shale, shale, and pro-delta facies. The petrophysical modeling results show that the E sand interval exhibits high effective porosity (∅eff) and hydrocarbon saturation (Shc) compared to the G sand interval. The average petrophysical properties we identified, such as volume of shale (Vshale), average porosity (∅avg), ∅eff, water saturation (SW), and the Shc of the E sand interval, were 30.5%, 17.4%, 12.2%, 33.2% and, 70.01%, respectively. The findings of this study can help better understand the reservoir's structural and stratigraphic characteristics, the spatial distribution of associated facies, and petrophysical properties for reliable reservoir characterization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) is one of the most common human infectious agents, and the mutations in its genome may cause chronic hepatitis (CH), liver cirrhosis (LC), and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study was designed to characterize the enhancer-II (Enh-II) region of X gene in HBV positive patients to assess the association of such mutations with CH, LC, and HCC. Methods: HBV positive samples (N = 200) with patients' demographic and clinical data were collected from different regions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Pakistan. The Enh-II region of the HBx gene was sequenced and zanalyzed for polymorphism associated with advanced liver disease. Univariate and logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate potent mutations associated with a risk for LC and HCC. Results: HBV Enh-II region sequences analysis revealed 25 different mutations. The highest frequency of mutations S101F (62.2%), A102V/R/G/I (56.25%), M103L/A (68.75%)were found in HCC, followed in LC and CH patients as 57.1%, 42.8%, 28.52% 16%, 15.2% and 18.4% respectively. H94 deletion in the α-box of the Enh-II region, associated with a high risk of HCC was found in half of the HCC patients. This deletion was present in 28.5% of LC and 6.5% of CH patients. Importantly, the high frequency of some notable mutations such as E109A/Y, A110S/K, Y111D/E, and F112L was first time reported in the entire study population. The frequencies of these mutations were high in HCC (43.75%, 37.5%, 50% and 43.75% respectively) as compared to LC (14.28%, 14.28%, 28.2% and 42.8%) and CH patients (12.8%, 15.2%, 16.8% and 16% respectively). Conclusion: Mutations associated with LC and HCC are prevalent in the Enh-II region in Pakistani HBV isolates. The mutations found are alarming in CH patients as these may progress to LC and HCC in a large number of patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study aims at exploring enzyme inhibition of four species of medicinal herbs, namely Senna bicapsularis, Thevetia peruviana, Nerium oleander and Vinca major. Plant selection was done on the basis of their therapeutic uses by local practitioners. The crude methanolic extracts of these plants were tested for their α-glycosidase and urease enzyme inhibition potential. The observed urease inhibitory potential for the crude extract of S. bicapsularis, T. peruviana and N. oleander were 8.3 ± 0.33 μg, 6.98 ± 0.98 μg and 9.56 ± 1.43 μg, respectively while the V. major did not show any inhibition. In addition, the IC50 value for Thiourea was 22.3 ± 1.14 μg. The crude extracts of S. bicapsularis, T. peruviana, N. oleander, V. major were shown to inhibit α-glycosidase activity with an IC50 value of 630.3 ± 0.03 μg, 700.7 ± 2.43 μg, 430.4 ± 3.97 μg, and the standard (acarbose) 880 ± 1.03 μM, respectively. Based on the TLC profile, the extract of S. bicapsularis was subjected to column chromatography and the major component named rhein (1) was identified. Compound 1 exhibited excellent urease and α-glycosidase inhibitory activity with an IC50 value of 7.4 ± 0.32 and 622.3 ± 1.03 μM, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this research article was to investigate the impact of activity-oriented teaching on the students' performance in Physics at college level. An earlier study by Majid Khan, et. 2020, ten chapters from high school physics textbook were used. A sample of 60 students participated in that study. In the present study twenty (20) lessons were selected from 11th class Physics for the present study. All the science students at colleges of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, studying Physics at the 11th grade, constituted the population. A sample of 80 students was randomly selected from Govt. College Peshawar, Mardan, Kohat and Malakand. Pre-test-Post-test Control Group Design? of experimental research was selected for this research study. Three MCQs type achievement tests were used as research tools for the data collection. Experimental group was taught with the help of activities whereas the control group was taught the same lessons through traditional method of teaching for the period of six (4) weeks. T-test was used to analyze the data. The results showed that the activity-based teaching is more effective for the development of higher order skills in the students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current non-systematic narrative review of literature sought to explore the need for research into child sexual abuse (CSA) in Pakistan's schools. The limited literature that exists suggests that CSA is a pervasive problem in Pakistan as it is in neighboring India, and indeed, throughout the world. Government agencies and schools in Pakistan appear to be in their infancy in terms of recognizing and responding to CSA. High-profile media cases, however, have led to some promising child safety changes. The current narrative review identified the need for studies with methodological rigor to identify the nature and extent of children who have experienced CSA in Pakistan. Future studies also need to explore how best to conceptualize school-based abuse prevention in Pakistan. Recommendations are made for practice and research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A cursory review of the Building Management System (BMS) which optimizes building performance as a move towards smart cities has been presented in the present study. The extant study is an effort to distinguish and analyze the circumstances as if the underdeveloped economies are less likely to be benefitted by the contemporary trends of BMS as compare to the developed countries. Moreover, the current study identifies the factors which may cause to render the managerial acceptance for using BMS through the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). TAM was used to measure four behaviors (latent factors) namely subjective norms, organization support, compatibility, and technology complexity. The data were statistically evaluated via multiple regression analysis using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Results suggested that organization support and compatibility have a significant influence on managerial intentions to use BMS while subjective norms, technology complexity have no significant influence. The findings of this study may serve as guidelines for improvement in the acceptance process and using building management systems in commercial sectors of developing countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. It is essential to follow World Health Organization drug prescribing indicators to ensure rational prescribing in every health care setting. Objective. To evaluate the prescriptions in the endocrinology department, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), recommended Ghana guidelines for diabetes management and rational therapy. Methods. Concurrent and retrospective study design was used. The prescriptions of 100 diabetes patients were assessed for the type of medicine, dosage form, number of drugs, diabetes type, and deviation from standard guidelines. Results. In a total of 100 prescriptions, the pattern was reported as injections (31%), antibiotics (18%), and metformin (31.1%). Half of the prescriptions were according to WHO guidelines. The number of drugs per prescription was reported at 5.2. A 70% rational approach was followed in prescribing. 81% of drugs were prescribed from the Essential Drug List (EDL) of the WHO. However, the National Essential Drug List (NEDL) was followed by 27%. The percentage of drugs on generic names was 0.7%. Eighty-four patients showed net improvement in health; 16 patients showed higher glycemic range at the time of discharge. Conclusion. The conclusion of the present study indicates that WHO Ghana guidelines were not followed up to the mark to improve the overall health status of diabetic patients and rational prescribing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two‐dimensional regional seismic reflection, oil well data, and biostratigraphic data have been used in integration to study the general structure, stratigraphic architecture, and subsidence history of the part of River Indus offshore Pakistan. The seismic data have been calibrated with the well data by generating the synthetic seismograms to identify the key reflectors indicative of major lithologic horizons. The sedimentary successions on the seismic sections are divided into passive and transpressive margin sediments on the basis of regional tectonics of the area. The western Indian margin is in oblique collision and transpression with Eurasian and Arabian plates creating Kirthar Range onshore and Murray Ridge offshore, respectively. Four mappable seismic sequences are identified within the passive margin sediments and two within the transpressive margin sediments. Due to the complex depositional setting of the basin, certain seismic sequences are not clear on the seismic records. In addition to depositional complexity, the seismic sequences are disturbed by the presence of normal faults generated probably under the action of gravity. It is interpreted from the seismic records that the normal faults were probably reactivated due to the movement of the basement blocks which have generated the push‐up structures within the offshore depression area. The subsidence curves show a gentle convex upward trend, which suggest an uplift around 40 Ma probably resulting from the reactivation of the basement blocks. The study could be helpful in understanding the tectonics of the worldwide passive margins dominated by rifting and transpression stages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A complex Meso-Cenozoic history characterizes the offshore Indus Basin Pakistan, including rifting, drifting, collision, transpression and recent inverted extension that is poorly understood. We use reflection seismic data to document the geometry of the structures that accommodated the deformation and offshore well data to correlate the sedimentary sequences which were affected by the different tectonic episodes. Synthetic seismograms have been prepared for calibrating seismic data with well information for identification of key reflections representative of major lithological horizons. Seismic stratigraphy helped in dividing the sedimentary successions into rifted margin and transpressive margin sequences. Additionally, the basement represented by chaotic and semitransparent reflections, and Moho discontinuity by moderate amplitude bright reflections are also identified on seismic records. Syn-depositional normal faulting in extensional regime (Cretaceous–Oligocene) are identified on seismic profiles that converted into strike slip faults in Miocene and listric faults in Recent sediments forming inverted extensional regime. We infer that the basin inversion from extension to inverted extension and transpression occurred in recent times. Number of depositional features including shelves, deltaic deposits, canyons and channel levee complexes have been identified that developed in different tectonic episodes. Five tectonic subsidence curves using backstripping procedure have been calculated in order to constrain the geodynamic evolution of the Meso-Cenozoic sedimentary succession of the offshore Indus Pakistan. The analysis of tectonic subsidence curves, covering a time span of 140 Ma, allowed us to quantify the total subsidence and to document the activities of syn-rift and post-rift faulting systems. Different stages, in terms of duration and magnitude of subsidence-uplift trends, have been identified in the evolution of the basin. Two uplift events are prominent in Eocene (∼40 Ma) and Miocene time (∼12 Ma). A rapid resumption of subsidence with non-conformity in Early Palaeocene is seen along the margin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

[Display omitted] • Triplex geometry evolved through fault-propagation folding and thrusting. • Intense internal deformation due to decreased shear stress and substantial cohesion in Salt. • Prominent uplifts at 290 Ma and 48 Ma during Permian and Eocene are identified. • Crustal shortening of 15.05% is recorded due to compressive environment. The worldwide foreland basins preserve the largest tectono-sedimentary records representative of complex episodic deformation history which holds an imperative meaning for understanding the dynamics of collisional belts. Regional deep reflection seismic and borehole data have been used to accurately interpret the genetic association of regional tectonics with the depositional framework of the Himalayan Foreland Fold-belt (Potwar region Pakistan). Four mappable sedimentary mélanges (Cambrian to Recent) and several unconformities have been interpreted on seismic records. The associated reflections in the basement rocks are often grading into weaker, more chaotic in nature with related peg-leg arrivals. The seismic data analysis suggested that the Infra-Cambrian salt unconformably lying over the Indian Plate Pre-Cambrian crystalline basement resulted in decreased shear stress and significant cohesion across the region. On contrary to earlier studies, this research confidently proved the existence of triplex structural geometry comprised of a major foreland verging thrust and three hinterland-verging backthrusts accommodating intensely deformed sedimentary sequences under the thrust sheets. Abridging the analyses, it is inferred from the computed crustal shortening (15.055 %) and backstripping that during the uplift by the Indian–Eurasian collision, a strong push from the basement rocks accompanied by tectonic inversion resulted in compressive environments and formation of fault-propagation folds. The subsidence curve identified two prominent uplift events during the passive margin development (290 Ma) and foreland basin formation (48 Ma). The subsidence history further helped in providing a basis for reconstructing the Pre-Cambrian to the present-day tectonostratigraphic record of the studied region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plum is an important stone fruit of Pakistan after peach. It is prone to post harvest losses at different levels during its production and consumption. Evaluating post harvest losses in the marketing channel of the plum was necessary for the stake holders to make informed decision about harvest and post harvest practices. This study was conducted in Swat district in 2012 to quantify these losses at different levels using four different questionnaires. Proportionate stratified random sampling technique was used for the collection of data from different categories of respondents and tehsils. Post harvest losses were estimated through percentage method. The most important reasons were poor harvesting methods, over maturity, insufficient cold storage facility, poor grading, low-quality packaging materials and poor infrastructure. Total post harvest losses in the marketing channel of the plum were 21.51% of which 5.12% occurred at farm level, 1.44% at wholesale level, 6.31% at retail level, and 8.64% at the consumer level. Harvesting at proper maturity, using experienced labor and storage facility can reduce extent of post harvest losses of plum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an explanation of why and how institutional arrangements influence the practice of CSR in Pakistan. The authors conduct in-depth interviews with CSR managers; national regulators; and, members of CSR promoting institutions. Our findings suggest that Pakistani CSR is largely found to be in support of charities and donations. Family traditions and religion are primary drivers for the adoption of CSR followed by the influence of peer pressure. Additionally, limited regulative pressures were attributed to the current ambiguity surrounding corporate regulation in Pakistan. This paper contributes to the literature on CSR by identifying internal drivers of CSR praxis. • We examine the influence of institutional dynamics to understand CSR praxis in Pakistan. • 23 in-depth interviews with various stakeholders identify unique drivers of CSR. • Normative isomorphism are primary drivers of CSR, followed by mimetic pressures. • The current regulatory mechanism is hugely influenced from elsewhere, which is not supportive of CSR. • Organisational factors also drive the practice of CSR including self-interest, top management's commitment and corporate culture. • Implications for national regulators, business and future research on CSR are suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Western Passive Continental Margin of the Indian Plate (WCMI) serves as an elegant laboratory for understanding the syn-sedimentary rift-drift tectonics preserving a variety of episodic structural deformations and complex sedimentary infill. Here we present a multidisciplinary study on Offshore Indus Basin (OIB) that is less investigated compared to adjacent marginal basins along WCMI. Reflection seismic, gravity, borehole, and biostratigraphic data have been used to reconstruct the tectono-sedimentary history of the Meso-Cenozoic succession in OIB. Seismic based dynamic stratigraphy helped in mapping seven different depositional sequences grounded on morpho-tectonic considerations. The seismic expression of these sequences provided an idea of the depositional styles with different tectonic episodes since rifting in Jurassic to basin inversion in Miocene continued to present time. The OIB initially filled from the north with the sediments rapidly prograding southwards. In general, the basin deepens in the central and northwestern part where the formations achieve maximum depths. The analysis of 3D structural models revealed that the region experienced poly-phase deformation from the Late Cretaceous to recent times that include steeply dipping normal faults, horst, and graben, half-graben, half-graben with growth faulting, flower structures, anticline, syncline, and uplift with an angular unconformity. The most remarkable tectonic activity happened at the Early Miocene and resulted in the reactivation of extensional faults into strike-slip faults giving rise to a spectacular structural inversion due to transform movement between Indian and Arabian Plates that continues to present day. The most predominant faults are oriented in S20°-50°E with azimuth as 120°–160° and the maximum dip angles are >80° in the southwest flank of the basin. The main fault trend is S20°E-N20°W and dip angles ranging between 40° and 80° and above. A thick crust and the Ocean-Continent Transition (OCT) is imaged with massive felsic, mafic, and ultramafic intrusions by the help of forward gravity modeling. An initial onset of syn-rift tectonic subsidence between 90 and 68 Ma with a post-rift general increase between 68 and 54 Ma is comprehended while two uplift events at ~40 Ma and ~18 Ma are documented through backstripping analysis. It is inferred that the region is rapidly under complex structural inversion with growing folding, faulting, and flowering structures. This study could help in explaining the unanswered reasons of structural complexities, depositional styles, and basin inversion along worldwide passive margins. • Various datasets and techniques used in reconstructing the tectono-sedimentary history of the Offshore Indus Pakistan. • Early Miocene marks a remarkable era of change in the regional geology. • Spectacular structural inversion due to transform movement between Indian and Arabian Plates is identified. • Poly-phase deformation resulted in steeply dipping normal faults.The faults form horsts, graben, half-graben structures and half-grabens with growth faulting.Remarkable flower structures, anticline, syncline, and uplift with an angular unconformity are recognized. • The faults form horsts, graben, half-graben structures and half-grabens with growth faulting. • Remarkable flower structures, anticline, syncline, and uplift with an angular unconformity are recognized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the institutionalisation of corporate social responsibility reporting among listed companies in Pakistan. First, we identify the influence of industry type; regulatory pressures; the presence of CSR promoting institutions; business size; and, ownership on the extent of CSR reporting. Second, we explore the managerial perceptions on CSR reporting. In so doing, the paper extends the existing literature on the debate over accountability, regulation, international standards, sustainability and the influence or otherwise of other stakeholders by exploring organisational and external institutional drivers of CSR reporting in developing countries. The quantitative content analysis of annual reports from 29 listed companies across a range of industries is used to identify the nature and scope of CSR reporting. Four annual reports from each company (2001, 2006, 2011 & 2017 – five-yearly intervals) were selected as the reporting horizon. The content analysis demonstrated considerable growth in CSR reporting, potentially enabled by various organisational and institutional factors. To explore the perceptions, motivation, and authenticity of these reports, on-site interviews with 15 managers are then conducted. The interviews highlight that public image and company recognition are the primary motivation for CSR reporting, rather than the pursuit of improved tangible outcomes. We discuss the contributions to research of institutional theory on CSR reporting and pose recommendations to both managers and regulators. Image 1 • A sample of Pakistani listed companies shows that institutional environment affects corporate social responsibility (CSR) reporting. • Our results portray a significant increase in CSR reporting over the timeframe studied. • We find a strongly significant impact of regulatory influences and promoting institutions on such CSR reporting. • No significant relationship of explanatory variables including hazardous industries; MNC's subsidiaries; and, size exists with CSR reporting. • The qualitative analysis of CSR reporting highlights issues related to reporting quality, and lack of experience, among other challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Preserved deformed depositional sequences along passive continental margins are important repositories of natural resources as well as key laboratories for understanding rift-drift tectonics. With better post signal processing schemes, interpretation techniques, and potential data, imaging sedimentary basins along these margins has reached unique levels of refinement. This, in turn, has led to considerable improvement in unfolding the complex tectono-sedimentary history since rifting to basin development. In this paper, deep reflection seismic coupled with well data and biostratigraphic information have been used to decipher the third-order depositional sequences of Meso-Cenozoic succession in western parts of the Indian Plate Passive Continental Margin (Offshore Indus Basin) as pioneer research. Based on morpho-tectonic considerations, the depositional sequences are divided into syn -rift, passive margin, and post-rift stages deformed by steeply dipping normal faults. Using the principles of classic sequence stratigraphy, five third-order mappable depositional sequences have been recognized on seismic records that are controlled by regional tectonics and sea-level fluctuations coupled with sedimentation type and rates in the region. The associated system tracts were recognized and mapped based on genetic reflection terminations on seismic profiles and log motifs, and constraint surfaces include sequence boundaries (SBs), maximum flooding surfaces (MFSs) and transgressive surfaces (TSs). The depositional systems encompass lowstand system tracts (LSTs), transgressive system tracts (TSTs), and highstand system tracts (HSTs). The LSTs are composed of shallowing-upward lowstand deltas or terraces prograding in the basin-ward direction while pinches out landward at preceding depositional shoreline breaks. The sand units of TSTs are interpreted as shoreface sands deposited in the shelfal part during rising sea-levels and HSTs are characterized by coarsening and shallowing upward intervals, with both fluvial and laterally prograding deltaic deposits. A hydrocarbon entrapment model is proposed suggesting an interesting petroleum trap. Based on the entire course of this research, valuable recommendations have been made for answering past exploration failures and future efforts. Such studies can be applied to worldwide passive margins dominated by third-order sequences with complex sediments-tectonic interplay. • Third-order depositional sequences of Meso-Cenozoic succession in western part of the Indian Plate (Offshore Indus Basin) • The depositional sequences are controlled by regional tectonics and sea-level fluctuations coupled with sedimentation rates • Associated system tracts (LST, HST, TST, SMST) and constrained surfaces are identified on seismic and well log response • A hydrocarbon entrapment model is proposed showing a petroleum trap [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article investigates the relationships between perceived risk of terrorism, fear of terrorism, and avoidance behaviors among high and low terrorism exposure groups. The two groups consisted of undergraduate business students enrolled in public sector universities in two Pakistani cities, Peshawar and Islamabad. The participants from Peshawar ( N = 277) comprised the high exposure group whereas the participants from Islamabad ( N = 259) comprised the low exposure group, based on the level of terrorist activity in the regions. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire and analyzed using covariance-based structural equation modeling. The multigroup analysis indicated that the magnitude of the relationship between fear of terrorism and avoidance behaviors is stronger in the high exposure group than in the low exposure group. However, the findings did not support differences between the effects of perceived risk of terrorism on fear of terrorism and avoidance behaviors. Thus, the assumption that exposure to continuous terrorism is sensitizing was partially supported. The study contributes to the literature by demonstrating that fear of terrorism can have more detrimental effects on various life activities of individuals who are more vulnerable to terrorism than those who are less vulnerable. A number of practical implications are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]