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The COVID-19 pandemic, in Pakistan, impacted the educational system leading to the abandonment of face-to-face learning. This led to the reshaping of teaching and learning methodologies shifting from on-campus to virtual education. Most teachers were not only lacking in digital literacy but also experience a lack of self-confidence. In this context, a quantitative study based on ABA Experimental design was conducted to investigate the self-perceived efficacy of an online teaching workshop on the confidence skills of a sample of Pakistani university lecturers. A total of 70 participants (M[subscript age]= 33.14, SD=7.02) were recruited via a non-probability purposive sampling strategy. Twenty four males and forty six females attended a workshop and completed pre and post-assessment questionnaires which comprised a demographic questionnaire and Teaching Online Confidence Scale. Paired sample t-test was undertaken to compare pre-and-post means of confidence levels in online teaching which showed significant differences in confidence level (p<0.05). This study implies that such online training programs need to be nationally recognized and further research is required in Pakistan to investigate the relative and differential effectiveness of online teaching workshops.

This research examines the impact of University Social Responsibility (USR) on University Performance (UP) through mediating role of service quality, student satisfaction, university reputation, and student trust. Data were collected from a sample of 586 university students from Pakistan and 311 university students from China. Universities in Pakistan revealed that USR has a significant and positive impact on UP. However, this relationship was found to be insignificant in China. The findings from the overall sample revealed a significant and positive influence of USR on the intervening variables. Except for student trust in Pakistan, and student satisfaction in China, all the other constructs in the sample from Pakistan, China, and the overall sample were found to have a significant intervening role in the relationship between USR and UP. There is little research on the relationship and mechanism of impact of USR on UP.

The functioning of online media as a tool imparting awareness about environmental issues of Pakistan requires attention from academia. Therefore, the present article explains the way students use online media to engage with environment related issues of Pakistan. A carefully constructed survey using a 5-point Likert scale was administered to 223 students of Lahore who were selected through simple random sampling technique. Using Kendall's Tau-b test and measure of rank correlation Gamma (G or [gamma]), association between online media engagement related to environmental issues and pro-environment offline behavior was measured. Moreover, relations between usage of online media, students' awareness about environmental problems and their social capital were also calculated. Data revealed that a significant association existed between students' online media engagement and pro-environment offline behavior. Similarly, a significant association was also present in environment related online engagement and social capital of students. This research study helps to fill the gap of an understudied, yet an extremely important aspect of online media which pertains to its ability in educating and engaging the youth of the global south in pro-environment activities.

Assessment plays central role in process of effective instruction. A number of assessment techniques are associated with the quality of instruction and evaluating its learning outcomes. This study was designed to analyze the perceptions of teachers about using classroom assessment techniques at elementary and secondary schools in district Lahore. The sample comprised of 500 teachers (300 elementary & 200 secondary) selected randomly. The data were collected through an opinionnaire which contained 55 items, each at five point Likert type scale, ranging from strongly disagree (1) to strongly agree (5). The Cronbach Alpha value of internal consistency of the instrument was measured at 0.939. The results revealed that most of the public and private school teachers use summative assessment. They believe that formative and summative assessment can play more pivotal role in promoting students' learning in the classroom. Teachers may also use other alternative assessment techniques such as peer assessment and portfolio assessment. Implementing these assessment techniques will result in more effective and holistic development of elementary and secondary grade students both in public and private schools.

Purpose: This paper aims to examine the mediating role of relational mobile usage on the relationship between personal values (individualism, collectivism and academic self-efficacy) and organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) among the faculty members of higher education/degree-awarding institutes (DAIs) in Pakistan. The paper also examines the moderating role of gender on the relationship between relational mobile usage and OCB. Design/methodology/approach: Cross-sectional data from 217 faculty members of higher education/DAIs in Pakistan were collected through an online questionnaire. Structural equation modeling technique using SmartPLS was used to assess the measurement and structural model. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21 was used for data normality analysis, missing value analysis and variable calculation. Response and non-response bias were also examined. Findings: The findings confirmed that individualism was not significantly related to relational mobile usage; however, collectivism and academic self-efficacy were significantly related to relational mobile usage. The relationship of relational mobile usage and OCB was also significant. The mediating role of relational mobile usage on the relationship between individualism and OCB was not significant; however, the mediating role of relational mobile usage between collectivism and OCB, and academic self-efficacy and OCB was significant. The moderating role of gender on the relationship between relational mobile usage and OCB was also significant. Practical implications: DAIs' administration should strive to encourage individuals to value group priorities over the individualistic interests. Valuing group interest over the individualistic interest would promote the usage of mobile technology for relational purpose. This relational perspective of mobile usage will ultimately develop OCB among individuals. Also, academic self-efficacy through relational mobile usage can lead to OCB; therefore, another important policy implication for the administration of DAIs is to develop academic self-efficacy among the stakeholders of the institutions. Originality/value: Although OCB has become a theoretically mature concept, the framework proposed for this study has rarely been discussed in previous scholarships, particularly from the perspective of relational mobile usage. Arguably, this study is the first in testing the mediating role of relational mobile usage between the personal values and OCB within the context of academia in Pakistan.

Objective To develop a tele-intensive care service providing peer-to-peer teleconsultation for physicians in remote and resource-constrained health-care settings for treatment of critically ill patients, and to evaluate the outcomes of the service. Methods The Aga Khan University started the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) tele-intensive care unit in 2020. A central command centre used two-way audiovisual technology to connect experienced intensive care specialists to clinical teams in remote hospital settings. The service, always available, used messaging applications and telephone calls. Coverage was later extended to other medical, neonatal, paediatric and surgical patients requiring critical care. Findings Between June 2020 and December 2023, the service provided 6014 teleconsultations to manage 1907 patients in 109 medical facilities, mostly in Pakistan and also Afghanistan, Kenya and United Republic of Tanzania. Of the 1907 patients, 652 (34.4%) had COVID-19 and 1244 (65.6%) had other illnesses. The mean duration of teleconsultations was 14.5 min. Of 581 patients for whom outcome data were available, 204 (35.1%) died. Multivariate multinomial logistic regression showed the odds of death decreased with increased number of consultations (> 3) per patient (adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 0.28; 95% confidence interval, CI: 0.16--0.48), and increased number of recommendations (≥ 5) per consultation (aOR: 3.09; 95% CI: 1.08--8.84). Conclusion Our tele-intensive care service helped manage critically ill patients in regions where intensive care had not previously been available. While research on the clinical impact of this model is needed, decision-makers should consider its use to increase provision of critical care in remote and resource-constrained health-care settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy and intense rainfall commonly triggers debris flow events, but the relationship between gentle rainfall, snowmelt water, and freeze–thaw erosion in high-altitude cold regions of northern Pakistan remains unexplored. A devastating debris flow from Bicharh Nallah hit the village of Sherqilla in northern Pakistan on July 5, 2022, and killed 8 people and destroyed 10 houses completely and 250 houses partially. The Bicharh Nallah debris flow (Sherqilla village) in Ghizer district is used as a case study to find out what makes this size debris flow happen in a cold region and how it is affected by rainfall, snowmelt water, and freeze–thaw erosion. This work was done through fieldwork investigation, laboratory work, and statistical analysis. The debris flow dynamic characteristics such as peak discharge, velocity, and density were calculated as 430.82 m3/s, 5.11 m/s, and 1.74 g/cm3, respectively. We determined that rainfall acts as a direct triggering factor. Snowmelt water was quantitatively calculated, which contributed to triggering the debris flow. This study revealed that gentle rainfall and snowmelt water are direct triggering factors in the debris flow outbreak in Bicharh Nallah of Sherqilla village. Long-duration, extreme, and severe freeze–thaw erosion provided enough loose soil conditions for the triggering and formation of debris flow. The regional tectonics, geology, and local topography indirectly contributed to the development and amplification of Bicharh Nallah debris flow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Purpose: Student loyalty is important if universities are to stay in business by recruiting and retaining satisfied students who provide positive evaluations of their university to others. The current study employed a theoretical framework established by consumer researchers to test the hypothesis that university social responsibility (USR) would predict student loyalty, but that this relation would be mediated by perceived service quality, student satisfaction, and student trust in their university. Design/methodology/approach: Fee-paying university students in Pakistan (n = 608) completed a questionnaire to assess their perception of USR and service quality, their satisfaction with and trust in their university, and loyalty toward their university. Findings: Structural equation modelling with partial least squares software supported the hypotheses that higher perceived USR would be related to higher student loyalty, and that this relation would be mediated by perceived service quality, student satisfaction, and student trust. Originality/value: This study provides a novel contribution to the limited literature on USR and its relations with student loyalty. Several models have previously examined the relation between corporate social responsibility and general consumer loyalty, but these have limited applicability to the education sector. The data in this study support a model showing that USR supports student loyalty through its positive impact on perceptions of service quality, student satisfaction, and student trust. The findings suggest that USR could be a marketing tool that supports student loyalty, as long as USR initiatives increase students' perceptions of service quality, satisfaction and trust in their university.

This research study aims to analyze the Preparedness and Response to crises in School Education department at secondary level in Punjab, Pakistan. This was done through the experiences and views of District Education Officers (DEOs), Head of Schools and Secondary School Teachers (SST). The purpose of the study was not only to examine preparedness and response to crises but also to help education administration with specific reference to circumstances under which the process of crisis management at school level is going on, within the Pakistani Education system. For collection of data a detailed questionnaire for DEOs, Heads and Teachers was used in nine sampled districts out of 36 (25%) of the Punjab. The study remained with descriptive type of research methodology. To evaluate the crisis Preparation and response of administration, 6 main and 31 sub factors were analyzed through the process of percentage (%), Weighted Mean (WM), and Standard Deviation (SD). After gone through the process of analysis of data and findings of the study it was revealed that at administration and management (DEOs & Head) level the practices of crisis management remained satisfactory. The school administration carries the practices in normal way. No concept of creating awareness among the students about crisis. No proper system of crisis response team, training and other measures were not found, which are very important for safety and security of the students and staff.

Objective: This study was conducted to evaluate the procedural success of primary angioplasty in terms of TIMI flow and myocardial blush grade (MBG). Methods: We used cross-sectional population data of the patients who underwent primary PCI in Emergency Angiography department of Punjab Institute of Cardiology, Lahore from January 2021 to September 2021. TIMI flow and myocardial blush grades (MBG) were assessed before and after the procedure. All PCIs in which there was improvement in blood flow in infarct related artery of =2 grades in TIMI flow and/or in MBG were considered successful. Results: A total of 106 patients were enrolled, 91 patients were male and 15 patients were female with the age range from 22 to 75 (48.7 ± 11.8) years. TIMI flow and MBG was improved = 2 grades in 69 and 58 patients respectively. Improvement in TIMI flow was noted similar in all three vessels. Overall 65% patients showed improvement in TIMI flow and 55% in MBG. Onset of chest pain to balloon time was the most important parameter, shorter the time better the result. The patients in whom MBG was improved, the time was 234.26 ± 156.06 vs 323.59 ± 252.64 minutes. Conclusion: Primary angioplasty is quite effective procedure for the restoration of blood flow in acute ST elevation myocardial infarction but still it is far away from the ideal one. Although most patients benefit from primary PCI, a significant minority of individuals do not, particularly if they present late. What could be the ideal therapy, the answer is still to be answered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pakistan has significant geothermal potential but due to poor energy management and low utilization of rich geothermal energy, the country is ranked among the energy deficient nations in the world. In this study, integrated geophysical techniques were used to assess the geothermal energy potential of various hot springs in the Sindh province. The study revealed that Naing Shareef and Gaji Shah hot springs have remarkable potential for geothermal energy having pool water temperature of 43 °C and 45 °C, respectively. Geophysical resistivity survey was carried out at both Naing Shareef and Gaji Shah hot spring to determine depth, thickness and quality of thermal water. At Naing Shareef hot spring, only a single thermal aquifer zone has been pinpointed within the shale composition of the Oligocene Nari Formation, and it is on average 55.07 m depth and 29.8 m thick. At an average depth of 100.66 m and an aquifer thickness of 77.03 m, the Gaji Shah hot springs exclusively possess a thermal aquifer region established within the sandstone composition of the Oligocene Nari Formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Child malnutrition is a grave concern for Pakistan, as the country has one of the highest incidences of child stunting in the developing world. The present study examines the relative significance of parents' education on a child's nutritional status in Pakistan. Design/methodology/approach: For analysis, the study has used data from Phase 7 of the Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey (PDHS) (2017–2018). Since the dependent variable ranges from 0 to 1 (1 indicates not a stunted child, while 0 represents a stunted child), binary logistic regressions are used for the analysis. Findings: The results show that mothers' and fathers' education positively contributes to a child's nutrition. However, mothers' education is considered more significant, especially in the long run. The mother's education categories are positive and significant in the long run, while only their higher education is positive and significant for the father's. Moreover, the magnitude of the effect also shows that the probability of stunting is less if the mothers are educated. The long-run coefficient for mothers' higher education is 0.752, while that of fathers' higher education is only 0.232. Originality/value: The present study compares the importance of mothers' and fathers' education in child nutrition and concludes that the role of the mother is more crucial for child upbringing. There are rarely any studies that focus on the role of fathers' education in child nutrition and compare whose role, mothers' or fathers,' is more important for child well-being. Peer review: The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-06-2023-0483 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intellectual capital is a concept that is achieving researcher's attention day by day. The main purpose of this research study is to explore the role and relationship of intellectual capital and its three components on the performance and efficient working of universities in Pakistan. Education sector especially universities were selected because it plays a critical role for the development and growth of knowledge intensive sector. So in this research study 3 components of intellectual capital such as human capital, structural capital and relational capital were taken as independent variables and institution's performance is taken as dependent variable. In this research study a structured questionnaire is adopted from the past research studies and 800 responses have been collected from various public and private university students in Pakistan. Reliability analysis is conducted to check the reliability of constructs and Pearson's correlation is applied to explore the relationship of three components of IC on institution performance. Results indicate that all the three components show a significant relationship with performance but among the three components, the relation of human capital is more prominent.

This article aims to explore the concept of student well-being and how it can be introduced and integrated within Pakistan's educational structure. The basis of the discussion is built around the need for having a student well-being model for schools in Pakistan. For the purpose of the study, the information is gathered inductively through a detailed literature review of the relevant data, which was further supplemented by three case studies from the public, private and catholic schools in Victoria, Australia. Along with this, extensive literature review was made of Pakistan's education system. Following the completion of the literature review and case studies, a comprehensive framework is proposed along with a student well-being management plan for developing and integrating the student well-being model into the existing educational programme in the country.

Studies have found that farmers' awareness of climatic variations is the preliminary step for adaptation and mitigation in agriculture. Thus, the main aim of this article is to investigate the determinants of farmers' awareness of climate change. A multistage random sampling technique was used to collect primary data from Central and Southern Punjab, Pakistan through a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to indicate the farmers' awareness level of climate change, whereas the binary logit model was applied to determine the factors affecting the farmers' level of awareness. The results showed that farmers were aware of prevailing temperature and rainfall patterns, but there is still a considerable potential for public perception to be shaped by relevant stakeholders. Further, it was found that farmers' level of awareness is determined by the environmental communication network, such as socioeconomic, institutional, and geographic factors.

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

This study investigates how academic staff achieves career satisfaction (CS) and life satisfaction (LS) under direct and different configurations of servant leadership (SL) dimensions. Using a survey of academics in Spain, China, and Pakistan, this study uses Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to test the direct relationship, and fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA) to find configurations of SL dimensions that lead to career and LS. Direct relationships revealed that in each country, almost all dimensions failed to create any individual impact on CS and LS. The fsQCA results revealed an asymmetric relationship between the different SL dimensions and outcomes. Prior SL, CS, and LS research has primarily relied on symmetrical correlational methods. This is one of the first studies to use fsQCA in SL, CS, and LS in higher education literature. Furthermore, there is significantly limited research on SL in a cross-country setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Work-Place spirituality is on the fast track and those days are gone when scholars face problem in defining the same. Spirituality has deep relation with personality and all the linked abstracts with personality are in lab with workplace spirituality at current time. This study is one of the case of that chain where spirituality is observed with job satisfaction, organizational culture and role of gender. The method for gathering the data was stratified random sampling. 457 replies were obtained from 500 teaching faculty members at several universities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, who were given an approved questionnaire. AMOS and SPSS Package-21 have been used to find analytical results. The tool's validity and dependability were guaranteed. Values for the model fit index were confirmed. The study has shown and analyzed the model's path coefficient with and without moderating and interaction factors. It was discovered that Work-place Spirituality has encouraging behavior for job satisfaction of the employee and organizational culture further enhance the behavior while gender is unaware about the behavior of WPS. The study's role in literature and industry has been defined. At the completion of this inquiry, there are limitations and recommendations based on the findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hepatitis B infection presents a significant global health challenge, with Pakistan experiencing particularly high prevalence rates. Moreover, jaundice is often regarded as a non-threatening metabolic condition by most individuals rather than an infectious concern. Given the strong association between hepatitis B and jaundice, this study aimed to investigate the prevalence of hepatitis B serological markers among individuals with a history of jaundice in the state of AJK, Pakistan. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 100 participants from the University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Muzaffarabad, selected based on the history of jaundice within the last 6 months and aged over 18 years. Data collection included basic ethno-demographic information and screening for hepatitis B using immuno-chromatographic test (ICT) devices forHBsAg, anti-HBc, HBeAg, anti-HCV, and anti-HDV. HBV DNA was extracted for positive HBsAg cases and subjected to PCR amplification. We analyzed the data using GraphPad Prism V. 9.0. Results: Among the participants, 2% tested positive for HBsAg, 1% for HBV DNA, and 1% for HBeAg. Fortunately, none tested positive for Anti-HCV or Anti-HDV. Age-based analysis showed a higher (11.8%) prevalence of hepatitis B markers among participants aged above 25 years. Male participants showed a higher prevalence of HBsAg compared to females (9.5% vs. 0%; p = 0.0056; χ2 = 7.677). District-wise prevalence of hepatitis B varied, with Bagh district showing the highest rate of 10%, while some districts reported no cases. Job-based analysis showed higher prevalence among employees (28.6%) compared to students (0%). Tribal analysis revealed varying prevalence rates, with the Chaudhary tribe showing a positivity rate of 16.7%, and the Khan tribe exhibiting a positivity rate of 12.5% for hepatitis B markers. Conclusion: The findings highlight the importance of recommending hepatitis B screening for individuals with a history of jaundice, especially among older age groups and males. Understanding the differences in hepatitis B prevalence among different ethnic groups and demographics is necessary for creating effective prevention and control plans in AJK state, Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to examine the impact and interrelation between positive psychological capital and occupational burnout among faculty associates of technical and professional training institutions. Design/methodology/approach: In total, 282 faculty members from 17 technical institutions were selected from the province of Punjab, Pakistan. Results were drawn using bivariate correlation and linear regression on the data that were collected through adopted questionnaire. Findings: Results of the study revealed that occupational burnout is significantly related to the performance of the faculty of technical institutes and that psychological capital moderates this relationship. Practical implications: Conclusions from this research suggested that the personality trait of a psychological capital is an essential determinant of job burnout and performance among faculty members; therefore, it must be considered as an essential part of the selection criteria and job-assessment process. This is important, since psychological capital reduces the detrimental impact of occupational burnout on performance outcomes. Further the faculty members with higher psychological capital should be retained to create positive work environment which can be an inspiration for others. Originality/value: The research provides important information about the impact of personality traits upon the performance of a faculty member who joins an educational institution coming from an industrial environment. Although having similar technological skills required for the position, still the effects of a new environment can cause performance issues, the research insisted that positive personality traits like psychological capital can help in gaining required confidence to perform in a changed environment.

Objective: To evaluate the risk factors for developing vascular thrombosis at high altitude. Study Design: Prospective longitudinal study. Place and Duration of Study: Combined Military Hospital, Skardu Pakistan, from Mar 2018 to Feb 2020. Methodology: Al individuals evacuated from high altitude with suspicion of vascular thrombosis were consecutively inducted and evaluated radiologicaly. Subjects diagnosed as VT were further categorized on basis of height of evacuation into high altitude, very high altitude and extremely high altitude categories. Results: Out of 295 individuals evacuated from HA, 54(18.3%) were diagnosed as VT. Al patients were males. Mean age was 31+5.3 years. Cerebral venous thrombosis was diagnosed in 19(35%) and was the most frequent folowed by pulmonary embolism in 18(33%) and deep venous thrombosis in 14(26%) patients. Risk of VT increased with increase in altitude as 05(10%) cases were from high altitude, 18(33%) were from very high altitude and 31(57%) from extremely high altitude. VT was more frequent in smokers [36 cases (67%), p<0.05] and in cold weather (37 cases (69%), p<0.05). Duration of stay has significant inverse correlation with height of deployment (r= -0.592, p< 0.001). Significant difference was found in duration of stay (p<0.001), haemoglobin (p=0.016) and haematocrit (p=0.012) among different categories of high altitude. Conclusion: Cases of vascular thrombosis increase with increasing altitude even in shorter period of stay. Increasing haemoglobin and haematocrit with increase in altitude, cold environmental temperature and smoking are important risk factors for development of VT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a persistent respiratory disease that poses a significant threat to global human health with elevated incidence and mortality rates. Timely recognition and diagnosis of COPD play a pivotal role in efficiently managing and treating the condition. The incorporation of deep learning technologies into healthcare has significant potential to enhance diagnostics and treatment outcomes. This study proposes an innovative deep-learning approach along with an ensemble technique to address the imperative need for an effective predictive model in COPD disease classification, particularly in situations with limited available data. This was achieved by leveraging the ensemble bagging technique and incorporating ANN as a classifier within this framework. Training and evaluation of the proposed ensemble ANN model were performed on a dataset comprising a variety of attributes, including demographic information, medical history, diagnostic measurements, and pollution exposures. Data were collected from people aged 18 to 60 originating from Pakistan, encompassing patients, attendants, hospital staff, faculty, and students. The effectiveness of the model in classifying COPD was measured using F1 score, recall, precision, and accuracy. The evaluation of the model produced notable results, as it achieved a 90% F1 score, 96% recall, 84% precision, and 89% accuracy in identifying the presence of COPD in individuals. Furthermore, this study carried out a comparative analysis between a standalone ANN model and the proposed ensemble ANN model which revealed that the proposed Ensemble ANN model outperforms existing methods, particularly in scenarios with limited sample size. This research provides substantial contributions to healthcare technology, as it presents an efficient tool for COPD prediction, facilitates early intervention, and significantly increases the overall standard of patient care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare the frequency of SARS-CoV-2 infection between Sero-positive and Sero-negative healthcare workersafter 6 months in a tertiary care hospital. Study Design: Prospective Cohort study. Place and Duration of Study: Combined Military Hospital, Kohat Pakistan, from Aug 2020 to Jan 2021. Methodology: Two Hundred and eighty-eight healthcare workers were included by non-probability consecutive sampling. They were divided into two groups according to SARS-CoV-2 IgG-Ab status at baseline as sero-positive and sero-negative. They were folowed for six months period and symptomatic healthcare workers were tested for SARS-CoV-2 infection by RT PCR. Individuals from al departments were included and used standard personal protective equipment. Results: Out of 288 Healthcare workers 240(83.33%) were male and 48(16.67%) were female. At baseline, 42(14.58%) individuals were sero-positive and 246(85.42%) were sero-negative for SARS-CoV-2 Ab. During 6 months of folow up 28(11.38%) symptomatic sero-negative Health Care Workers were tested positive for COVID-19 infection by RT PCR. None of the sero-positive Health Care Workers was tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 infection. Risk of infection was higher in seronegative group (Odds ratio 1.19 with 95% CI; 1.13-1.26). Conclusion: SARS-CoV-2Ab may offer immunity againstCOVID-19 infection as no infection was observed in sero-positive individuals as compared to 11.2% in sero-negative individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Suicidal hanging is common in Pakistan and is considered a serious challenge globally. We conducted a content analysis of reports about suicidal hangings published in six English-language newspapers in Pakistan between 1 January 2021 and 31 December 2022, employing a web-searching technique. 124 news reports were yielded; suicidal authors were males (68.5%), Muslims (69.4%), and unmarried (31.4%), aged 16- 30 years old. Ligatures employed in hanging suicides were ropes (28.2%), fabrics (20.9%), and electric wires (20.1%). The most frequent leverage-points selected in suicides were ceiling fans (37%) followed by trees (11.2%). Familial discords (19.2%) and poverty (9.6%) were the leading risk factors for hanging suicide. Most of the suicides (58%) occurred equally in the spring (29%) and autumn (29%) months. These evidences suggest that psychological interventions on families are crucial. Also, dealing with poverty and other social consequences in Pakistan as in the rest of the world may probably reduce the rate of yearly suicides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study focuses on determining the suitability of servant-teacher leadership as a leadership approach for instructional purposes. The study specifically looks at how servant leadership affects followers' cognitive learning by considering the mediating role of follower psychological empowerment. Using a stratified random sampling technique, data was collected through a questionnaire from seven hundred graduates from various HEC-recognized universities. The results of the study show that servant teaching significantly improves students' cognitive learning and sense of empowerment. Additionally, the study found that psychological empowerment mediates the link between follower cognitive learning and servant leadership. The findings of this study provide new insight to instructors seeking to develop a learning environment that fosters students' learning outcomes. However, it is also important to consider how to ensure students' commitment and that they are being challenged. Future research may explore the impact of cultural values on students' behavior toward servant teachers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We assessed the effectiveness of oral Hydroxychloroquine (HC), Azithromycin (AZ) and Oseltamivir (OS), alone or combined, among patients hospitalized with mildly symptomatic coronavirus infectious disease (COVID-19). Methods: Following the approval of the National Bioethics Committee and prospective registration (clinicaltrials.gov NCT04338698), a multicenter randomized clinical trial of adaptive design was conducted at 10 multispecialty hospitals in Pakistan. Patients were randomized into seven treatment groups. Starting April 15, 2020, consenting, eligible, otherwise healthy adult patients or those with co-morbidities under control, were recruited if they presented with mildly symptomatic COVID-19 (scored 3 on a 7-point ordinal scale anchored between 1 = not hospitalized, able to undertake normal activities, to 7 = death) confirmed by quantitative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR). Two primary outcomes were assessed by day seven: Turning qRT-PCR negative; and clinical improvement of two points from the baseline. Outcome rates were compared using a chi-square test. Multiple imputations were applied to handle missing data. An interim data analysis was carried out on July 19, 2020, following which the study continued without treatment group changes. Data Safety and Monitoring Board advised to stop recruitment due to its futility on January 18, 2021. Results: Of 471 patients randomized, a total of 426 (90.4%) completed the follow-up for primary outcomes. Based on imputed data analyses at day seven: Total qRT-PCR negative cases were 137/471 (29%, 95% CI 25.0 - 33.4). By day seven, a total of 111/471 (23.5%, 95% CI 19.8 - 27.6) showed clinical improvement. No serious or non-serious adverse event was reported. Conclusions: Among patients with mild COVID-19, there was no statistically significant difference in the effectiveness of oral antimalarial, antiviral, or antibiotic treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Land use change has become a major issue since the turn of the twentieth century due to global warming, particularly the conversion of the natural forest area into agricultural land and bare land. Such changes in different land types are major threats to physiochemical soil features. However, the effects of soil physicochemical properties under different land use types were evaluated in the arid zones of Pakistan. The soil samples were taken from three depths 0–20 cm, 20–40 cm, and 40–60 cm into three land use types (forest, cultivated, and grazing land). To estimate the physiochemical properties of soil, the samples were tested in the laboratory through analytical procedures of the atomic absorption spectrometer. The results revealed that the fertility of the soil was classified into four major groups very low, low, medium, and high fertile soil. The findings indicated that 66.95% sand and 23.91% soil elements were analyzed in the forest layer and 36.8% clay elements in the subsurface layer of cultivated land. The outcomes of the survey also showed that high (58.29%) and low (49.14%) amounts of total potassium were measured in cultivated and forest land areas of arid regions of Pakistan, respectively. In addition, about 53% of all land types were categorized into low organic matter division areas. The high amount of total nitrogen nutrients (0.12%) was found in the cultivated land and the lowest (0.003%) in the forest land. Comparatively, high potassium (K) 93.15 mg kg-1 was noted in the cultivated land. Moreover, Mn > Fe > Cu > Zn order of the nutrient amount was assessed over arid climate for all land use types over arid regions of Pakistan. Conclusively, this study will help predict the soil potential for sustainable agriculture and a green economy that boosts land use planning and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spatiotemporal variations in temperature (T) and equivalent temperature (Te) significantly impact agricultural production across Pakistan, highlighting the need for enhanced weather and climate modeling. This study utilized four reanalysis datasets spanning a 38-year period (1981–2018): the fifth-generation European Center for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) atmospheric reanalysis (ERA5), Interim ECMWF reanalysis (ERA-Interim), Modern-Era Retrospective analysis for Research and Applications version 2 (MERRA2), and the Japanese 55-year reanalysis (JRA55). We employed National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration/Advanced Very High-Resolution Radiometer (NOAA/AVHRR) Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) data, a proxy for crop health, to assess the relationship between T, Te, and NDVI. This relationship is examined via regression and correlation analyses, and significance is assessed using the Mann–Kendall test and t-test. Our results show that near-surface T significantly contributes to the magnitude of Te (> 90%), whereas specific humidity (SH) has a smaller impact (< 10%). Both T and Te increase significantly across the entire tropospheric column, at 0.15 – 0.31 and 0.38 – 0.77 °C/decade, respectively. Notably, the mid-tropospheric level exhibits less warming than the upper and lower tropospheric levels. Correlation analyses of T and Te with NDVI reveal that Te exhibits a significantly stronger relationship with NDVI compared to T on both seasonal and annual timescales. The highest correlation occurs in the warm and humid summer monsoon (June – August), with Te showing a correlation of 0.50 and T correlating at 0.22 with NDVI. This study suggests that Te can serve as an additional metric for analysing near-surface heating trends in relation to crop health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A neurological learning disability, termed as Dyslexia, is characterized by difficulties in various aspects of writing skills making the individuals unable to develop age-appropriate and ability-appropriate functional skills. In Pakistan, lack of dyslexia awareness and remedial education training restrains the remediation of dyslexic children at early stages. There also exist noticeable affordance and accessibility issues concerning the remedial help and assistive technology adoption. In this research, we have developed a mobile learning application for android-powered devices that targets developmental progression and usability requirements of dyslexic children with writing difficulties. Our center of interest was to improve introductory writing skills of dyslexic children along with consistent evaluation of their learning performance to highlight the weak areas of learning process. To achieve this objective, we have designed a Writers Learning Algorithm (WLA) based on computational model of learning. We assessed the effectiveness and usability of the developed application in collaboration with dyslexic students as well as remedial teachers at selected dyslexia institutions in Pakistan. The preliminary assessment results concluded that application has justified its role in terms of representation, evaluation and optimization of writing proficiency of young dyslexic writers.

Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection poses a significant global health challenge, impacting millions of individuals and elevating the risk of morbidity and mortality. Antiviral therapies are the primary treatment for chronic HBV infection, but treatment resistance can occur, leading to poor clinical outcomes and an increased risk of liver complications. This case report presents the clinical trajectory of a 28-year-old male diagnosed with asymptomatic HBV infection in 2016 under the auspices of the Hepatitis Control Program, Government of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan. Over 6 years, persistent HBsAg, HBV, and HBeAg were observed, with absent acute markers and co-infections. Initial HBV DNA viral load was 1 × 104 copies/mL in 2016, escalating despite entecavir and pegylated interferons therapy, indicating multi-drug resistance. Tenofovir therapy initially reduced viral load but later exacerbated it, reaching 1.86 × 106 copies/mL in 2022. Liver function abnormalities and lipid profile irregularities persisted. Urine examination consistently showed abnormalities. Pending HBV DNA sequencing results may offer insights into treatment resistance. This case underscores the need for an adaptive approach in managing chronic HBV infections within public health programs. Continuous monitoring, integration of virological and biochemical data, and a tailored treatment strategy are essential for optimizing outcomes in similar cases, stressing the importance of refining therapeutic approaches against chronic HBV infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Covid-19 affected many facets of life, including schooling, in addition to causing health and medical emergencies. Even in the best of conditions, just 20% of children in poor nations attend preschool, making the early childhood education sector particularly vulnerable. ECE was more severely harmed by COVID-19. ECE students were deemed much too young to use technology for learning, according to the majority of parents, school administrators, and teachers in Pakistan during the COVID-19 disturbance. As such, the rationale for keeping them out of the teaching and learning process was established. It was difficult for ECE students to continue their studies in light of these environmental and perceptual constraints. Therefore, the purpose of this research was to investigate how school leadership teams led and oversaw early childhood education in Pakistan during the COVID-19 epidemic. In this regard, the current study aimed to address the following research question: how did the school leadership team (HT, ECE coordinators, ECE teachers, Admin lead, IT lead), and parents lead and manage the learning of ECE students during the COVID-19 disruptions, what obstacles they faced? What strategies the stakeholders employed? How those strategies were modified? And how this affected the learning of students in the subsequent COVID-19 disruptions? The study was conducted using a qualitative research technique that used an exploratory approach. Furthermore, focused group discussions (FDGs) and semi-structured interviews were two of the study instruments employed to gather the data. Parents, ECE coordinators, admin leads, IT leads, lead teachers/principals, and instructors themselves provided the data. For the data analysis, the Creswell Model of Qualitative Analysis was used. The study yielded two main sets of results. Firstly, the school leadership fostered a culture of teamwork among teachers and parents; second, they looked into online tools like Flip Grid, Kahoot, and Google Classroom to encourage active participation from ECE students. Lastly, they increased digital connectivity and resource availability by using multiple network devices. In a similar vein, parents helped their young children learn via technology by enrolling in courses with them to assist and strengthen their areas of weakness. For parents, teachers, and students alike, the COVID-19 epidemic presented a dilemma. However, the parents and schools found a way to keep their children studying via online instruction. Finally, although the study's exclusive emphasis is on ECE leadership in poor countries, its conclusions may have differed for schools in rich nations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study seeks to examine the role of knowledge-oriented leadership in the health sector to achieve team outcomes in the Covid-19 context. Drawing from the leader–member exchange (LMX), social cognitive and social identity theory, the present study develops a model linking knowledge-oriented leadership and team performance through the underlying psychological mechanisms of team efficacy, team cohesion, team commitment and team collaboration. Design/methodology/approach: Utilizing quantitative data methodology, data were obtained from the pharmaceutical employees (health sector) of Pakistan during the pandemic. The partial least squares structural equation modeling was used to test the hypotheses. Findings: The findings support the hypothesis that knowledge-oriented leadership significantly influences team outcomes. The study also verified that team collaboration effectively mediates the relationship between knowledge-oriented leadership and team performance. Originality/value: The study is unique in the sense that it explores the newly established leader behavior (knowledge-oriented leadership) in understanding team outcomes in the health sector. The study concludes by making significant implications to overcome the challenges raised by Covid-19 pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study employs a qualitative approach to get insights into the experiences of research students during the COVID-19 pandemic and their perspectives on government higher education institutions. A total of 50 students from three universities were interviewed utilising the inductive thematic method. The students engaged in a discourse regarding the dissemination of misinformation on social media, hazardous behaviour, and the need of taking preventive measures during the crisis. They were cognizant of the hazards associated with the nursing profession as well as the inconveniences of using public transport and residing in student accommodation. The students praised the assistance provided by teachers and the efforts of the institutes. However, many expressed challenges in concentrating and acquiring knowledge in virtual courses. Students commonly encounter challenges such as limited internet access, elevated stress levels, heightened anxiety, financial constraints, joblessness, and the apprehension of losing their loved ones. The implementation of lockdown restrictions had a detrimental impact on the submission of theses, hence impeding students' capacity to conduct research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, I present a case of dispute resolution from Pakistan where kinship leaders play a key role in resolving local disputes. Scholars often cite that such practices provide evidence of a failed state. However, I show how these traditional practices elucidate ongoing processes of boundary management. On the one hand, these practices reveal the efforts by non-state leaders to carve out their autonomy by taking on a role traditionally played by the state. In fact, their ability to management local/state boundaries is linked to how they manage boundaries within their communities. The state, in turn, recognizes or legitimates these boundaries when it is politically convenient or allows them to save face. I document such negotiations in my research and show how they are critical to understanding how villagers see the state and vice versa. The Pakistani case is important as the ubiquity of its alternate dispute resolution system problematizes the taken-for-granted status of the state and makes visible the mechanisms by which the boundaries between the state and society are continually negotiated and the implications for the citizen/state relationship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Acute Myocardial Infarction (AMI) is a critical cardiac condition characterized by sudden blood flow blockage to the heart. Previous research indicates associations between AMI risk and factors such as age, gender, lifestyle habits, and preexisting medical conditions. Methods: This cross-sectional spatial analysis study aims to explore the geographically diverse incidence of AMI and associated risk factors in the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Data from 500 AMI patients, collected in April 2022 from a major cardiac center, were analyzed using the Chi-square test to assess associations between AMI risk factors. Results: Significant associations were identified between the lifestyle of AMI patients and diabetes (p = 0.002), and a highly significant association of age was found with diabetes, hypertension, and smoking (p = 0.000). This pioneering spatial analysis of AMI incidence provides valuable insights for developing national health interventions in Pakistan. Conclusion: This study addresses the significant concern of AMI incidence and associated risk factors in data-sparse Pakistan. Utilizing Geographical Information System (GIS), it offers a spatial understanding of AMI distribution and patterns, paving the way for future cardiovascular health research in the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The high input feeding system has been found most efficient in fodder-scarce areas of Pakistan. However, the economic worth of the system is questionable due to the high feed conversion ratio (FCR) of the goats. The current study was planned to improve the Beetal male kid's performance using a compensatory growth tool. A total of twelve male Beetal kids with an average weight of 20±2 kg and approximately 6 months old were randomly selected and kept for 85 days including 15 days of an adjustment period. There were two phases of the experiment. During the restriction phase; the animals were divided into three groups i.e. T1=feeding @2% of body weight (BW), T2=feeding @3% of BW, and T3=feeding @4% of BW. In the re-alimentation phase; all the animals were fed ad-libitum. The animals were kept in individual pens and were offered total mixed pelleted ration by following NRC recommended feeding standards. All the animals had free access to fresh and clean water. They were kept under the same husbandry practices. The results showed that ADG was highest (P<0.001) in T3 (887 g/d) followed by T2 and T2 due to higher intake during restriction phase. However, this was reversed in re-alimentation phase where the ADG was highest (P<0.001) in T1 (153 g/d) followed by T2 (112.10 g/d) and T3 (100.08 g/d) mainly due to compensatory growth phenomena. The ADFI data also support the ADG trend as it was higher in the groups showing higher gains. This trend was also followed by body measurements. The FCR was significantly (P=0.014) lower (6.83) in the T1 group during the re-alimentation period followed by T2 and T3. Total feed cost was also significantly (P<0.05) lower in T1 (Rs. 1938). Serum glucose was also higher (P=0.04) in group T1 (63.11 mg/dl) and least in T3 (55.97 mg/dl). This is also confirming the physiological modification in feed restricted animals that are responsible for compensatory growth. It is concluded that the growth performance of Beetal male kids can be improved by giving them restricted feeding @2% BW followed by re-alimentation which also improves the feed efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geocellular modeling has become extremely important, linking all petroleum disciplines, and being widely used in simulation and production forecasting in complex basin studies. In this study, we focused on the Minwal–Joyamair Fields in the Upper Indus Basin (UIB), Pakistan, which contains Cambrian to Eocene reservoir formations. Changes in sedimentary environments and structural activities within the UIB have resulted in reservoir heterogeneity, which has adversely affected reservoir performance, and it is still not fully understood. Geocellular modeling was used in this study to better understand the structural framework of the Cambrian to Eocene formations in the UIB. The 2D seismic and well log data from the Minwal–Joyamair Fields are the primary data for building the geocellular model for the Eocene (Chorgali, Sakesar) and Paleocene (Lockhart) reservoirs. The developed structural model is then populated with petrophysical properties such as porosity. The upscaled porosity for the Eocene carbonate rock units ranges 1–3%. On the other hand, the Cambrian and Permian (Tobra & Khewra) clastic reservoirs bear porosity of 3–10%. The upscaled porosity can be utilized to predict the lateral and vertical distribution in these reservoirs. Furthermore, the evaluated upscaled correlation for Eocene reservoirs (80–90%), whereas for Permian (Tobra) and Cambrian (Khewra) reservoirs, it lies between 60 and 70 %. Apart from data availability, a complete geocellular model of the field was produced, encompassing the petrophysical and facies model. The geocellular models created a high-resolution 3D reservoir model of this complex geology that can be applied to similar geology worldwide to identify prospective zones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A recently created cementing substance noted for its remarkable qualities is reactive powder concrete (RPC). It incorporates fine quartz sand, crushed quartz, silica fume, a low water-to-cement ratio, and a high percentage of Portland cement. In RPC, fine quartz sand completely takes the role of coarse aggregate. This study examines the effects of high-temperature curing on RPC strength while concentrating on the manufacture of RPC in Pakistan using locally accessible materials. In specifically, a compressive strength of more than 142 MPa is one of the desirable hard qualities that must be attained as the main goal. The study uses a variety of test mixtures and curing methods, including heat curing. The major emphasis is on mechanical properties such as compressive strength, split cylinder strength, and flexural strength. The study also investigates how the mechanical properties of RPC are affected by various steel fiber concentrations and curing conditions. With varying quantities of steel fiber and silica fume, more than 100 experimental mixtures are created. In comparison to silica fume levels, which range between 25% and 35% by weight of cement, steel fiber concentrations range from 0% to 3% by total volume. The results demonstrate the effects of curing at 60°C, 70°C, and 90°C. Notably, after 28 days of curing at 90°C, a compressive strength of 142 MPa is attained, suggesting a general rise in compressive strength across all curing methods with curing age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Almost all cities of Pakistan are economically affected by the electricity shortage due to the continuously increasing demand for electricity. To correctly forecast the seasonal fluctuations of the electricity consumption of Lahore city in Pakistan, we proposed the SDGPM(1,1,N) model, which is a seasonal discrete grey polynomial model combined with seasonal adjustment. We conducted an empirical analysis using the proposed model based on the seasonal electricity consumption data of Lahore city in Pakistan from 2014 to 2021. The findings from the SDGPM (1,1,N) model are compared with those collected through the original grey model DGPM(1,1,N) and other eight models. The comparison's findings demonstrated that the SDGPM(1,1,N) model is indeed capable of correctly identifying seasonal fluctuations of electricity consumption in Lahore city and its prediction accuracy is significantly higher than the original DGPM(1,1,N) model and the other seven models. The SDGPM(1,1,N) model's forecast findings for Lahore from 2022 to 2025 indicate that the city's energy consumption is expected to rise marginally, although there will still be significant seasonal fluctuations. It is predicted that the annual electricity consumption from 2022 to 2025 will be 26249, 26749, 27928, and 28136 with an annual growth rate of 7.18%. This forecast can provide policymakers ahead start in planning to ensure that supply and demand are balanced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research delves into the media portrayal of climate change and flood-related events in Pakistan during the year 2022, focusing on newspaper coverage. The study specifically scrutinizes editorials from two prominent newspapers, Daily Dawn and Daily Jang, spanning the period from January 1st to December 31st, 2022. The framing theory serves as the analytical framework for this investigation. The findings reveal that Daily Jang provided more extensive coverage of environmental issues compared to Daily Dawn, particularly during certain periods. The primary thematic areas related to climate change during this period encompassed "Floods in Pakistan," "Environmental Conferences," and "Agriculture." Notably, the Monsoon season received the highest level of attention in terms of climate change and flooding coverage. A big discovery was the striking similarity in the narratives employed by both Daily Dawn and Roznama Jang in addressing climate change and flood-related topics, suggesting a shared strategic approach in presenting these critical subjects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary objective of this study is to critically examine the intersection of Pakistani abortion laws and the rights of women who have experienced sexual assault, particularly rape, incest, and gang rape. The focus is on understanding the challenges faced by these women, both legally and socially, in a society where such topics are often considered taboo. The research methodology involves an examination of perspectives from legal professionals in Pakistan. Through interviews and analysis of legal interpretations, the study aims to uncover how these professionals perceive and apply Pakistan's abortion laws in the context of sexual assault. The research includes a review of relevant legal texts, cases, and societal norms. This study argues for the recognition of abortion as a right for raped women in Pakistan. By delving into the perspectives of legal professionals and the research highlights the need to reevaluate and reinterpret existing abortion laws to better address the needs and rights of women who have experienced sexual assault. Ultimately, the study advocates for a reconsideration of societal norms and legal frameworks to provide greater support and protection for victims of sexual assault. Current research suggests that there is a need for reevaluation and reinterpretation of existing abortion laws to better address the needs and rights of women who have been subjected to sexual assault. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gastrointestinal (GI) parasites are common across the globe, particularly in underdeveloped and developing countries. The incidence of these parasites is high in semi-urban and rural settings. Giardia and Cryptosporidium are two main intestinal parasites that infect humans and domestic and wild animals. Dogs and cats play an important role as reservoir hosts in transmitting these parasites to other hosts. There is a lack of published information on molecular research in Pakistan that examines the incidence of these parasites in cats and dogs and associated risk factors. Using a simple random sampling procedure, 384 fecal samples were obtained from cats and dogs in four towns in the District of Faisalabad (as defined by an epidemiological sample size calculation algorithm). Data on the related risk variables of GI protozoal infections were acquired using a pre-designed questionnaire with closed-ended questions. Centrifugal flotation was used to extract parasitic oocysts from feces. From isolated parasite oocysts, DNA was extracted. Genus-specific primers (18S rRNA gene) were used for PCR analysis. Giardia spp. was found to be present in 35 of the total samples, with a prevalence rate of 9.11%, while Cryptosporidium spp. was found to be present in 15 of the total samples, with a prevalence rate of 3.91%. Lyallpur town has the greatest frequency of Giardia spp., 12.22% followed by Iqbal town 10.11%, Madina town 8.42%, and Jinnah town 6.36%. Similarly, Lyallpur town has the greatest incidence of Cryptosporidium spp., followed by Jinnah town, Iqbal town, and Madina town (5.56, 3.64, 3.37, and 3.16%, respectively). Animals less than a year old had considerably (P=0.005) greater rates of infection with the abovementioned parasites. In the research area, stray dogs were more likely to have the infection as compared to stray cats. In conclusion, in order to stop the spread of these zoonotic diseases, adequate preventative measures are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this research is to explore the effects of sexual repression in Pakistan and its potential connection to sexual crimes, such as rape, child molestation, and incest. Sexuality is a fundamental human inclination, but in many cultures, including Pakistan, societal, religious, and cultural constraints have historically limited open discussions about this topic. These constraints often result in sexual repression and may have unintended consequences on individuals and society as a whole. Repressed desires may contribute to sexual crimes, posing a significant threat to public safety. For comprehensive understanding about the issues of adultery, in depth interviews were conducted and data was collected from different stakes of allied areas such as advocates, religious scholars, parents, media persons etc. For the collection of facts purposive sampling was carried out by the researcher. Current study explored a comprehensive approach to address the issue of zina within an Islamic framework, emphasizing the importance of compassion, justice, and adherence to Quranic principles. It is suggested that instead of punitive measures, addressing the root causes and dissatisfactions that lead to zina is essential. It is recommended that teachings of Islam should be added in secondary school level curriculum for the awareness of the youth. Further research is recommended to better understand and eliminate these underlying causes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Validity, reliability and item analysis are critical to the process of evaluating the quality of an educational measurement. The present study evaluates the quality of an assessment constructed to measure elementary school student's achievement in English. In this study, the survey model of descriptive research was used as a research method. Students of both genders (male/female) constitute the population of the study. To measure the achievement level of students, a test of English language as a subject was administered to the sample of 150 students (75 males and 75 females) of 8th grade. They were selected by convenient sampling method from 10 (5 private sectors and 5 public sectors) schools in Pakistan. English Achievement Test for elementary students comprises of 50 multiple-choice items (developed by the author), was used. The collected data were analyzed through descriptive statistics, Z-test and item analysis. The results of the study indicate that male student's achievement level in English is better than the female students at elementary level in selected schools. (Contains 5 tables and 4 figures.)

Community participation in planning and managing for increased educational opportunity is necessary. To ensure the involvement of local community, the government of Pakistan experimentally launched a scheme in 1994 by establishing School Management Committees (S.M.Cs). The major purpose of the present study was to observe the functions and performance of S.M.Cs in Promoting Education in Pakistan. The government schools of Punjab Province were considered to be the target population. The study sample consisted of SMCs. of eight government higher secondary schools, 34 government high schools and 34 government elementary schools the Punjab. A survey-type study questionnaire was used to gather the data which were collected and interpreted by using simple statistical techniques of percentage, mean, standard deviation, and t-test. Tentative conclusions are drawn with regard to observations of head teachers and members of SMCs. (Contains 2 tables.)

Since Pakistan's inception in 1947, the government has made continuous efforts to provide free, universal, basic education to its citizens. This is evidenced by educational plans, policies, and five-year education sector reforms, including partnerships with international agencies and developed countries. However, these efforts have not yielded any gains for the citizens. Pakistan has a literacy rate of 49.9 percent, one of the lowest in South Asia and the rest of the world. Pakistan's male and female literacy rates are 61.7 percent and 35.2 percent. The female literacy rate drops to 25 percent in rural areas, and girls' school enrollment of fifty-five percent drops to twenty percent from Grade 1 to 6. For the purposes of these statistics, a literate person is defined by Pakistan's Ministry of Education as one who can read a newspaper and write a simple letter in any language. Pakistan's population of 167 million is sixty-five percent rural and thirty-five percent urban, with citizens facing multiple interlinked issues affecting their quality of life, such as illiteracy, poverty, and the lack of basic necessities (shelter, gas, water, and electricity). In addition, a culture of feudalism and patriarchy creates structures of power and control that deprive citizens of their rights, including that of education (Farah 2007; Latif 2009). Studies have been conducted on education in Pakistan, but they have been limited in scope in terms of girls' education. This article addresses the gap in female literacy scholarship. Its purpose is to critically analyze the state of girls' education in Pakistan in terms of three factors: the reasons for low literacy and school enrollment rates, gender biases in curriculum and textbooks, and cultural norms. Based on this analysis, the article concludes with measures to increase school enrollment and literacy rates for girls and women. (Contains 1 table and 2 notes.)

Overuse of pesticides in agricultural soil and dye-polluted effluents severely contaminates the environment and is toxic to animals and humans making their removal from the environment essential. The present study aimed to assess the biodegradation of pesticides (cypermethrin (CYP) and imidacloprid (IMI)), and dyes (malachite green (MG) and Congo red (CR)) using biofilms of bacteria isolated from pesticide-contaminated soil and dye effluents. Biofilms of indigenous bacteria, i.e., Bacillus thuringiensis 2A (OP554568), Enterobacter hormaechei 4A (OP723332), Bacillus sp. 5A (OP586601), and Bacillus cereus 6B (OP586602) individually and in mixed culture were tested against CYP and IMI. Biofilms of indigenous bacteria i.e., Lysinibacillus sphaericus AF1 (OP589134), Bacillus sp. CF3 (OP589135) and Bacillus sp. DF4 (OP589136) individually and in mixed culture were tested for their ability to degrade dyes. The biofilm of a mixed culture of B. thuringiensis + Bacillus sp. (P7) showed 46.2% degradation of CYP compared to the biofilm of a mixed culture of B. thuringiensis + E. hormaechei + Bacillus sp. + B. cereus (P11), which showed significantly high degradation (70.0%) of IMI. Regarding dye biodegradation, a mixed culture biofilm of Bacillus sp. + Bacillus sp. (D6) showed 86.76% degradation of MG, which was significantly high compared to a mixed culture biofilm of L. sphaericus + Bacillus sp. (D4) that degraded only 30.78% of CR. UV–VIS spectroscopy revealed major peaks at 224 nm, 263 nm, 581 nm and 436 nm for CYP, IMI, MG and CR, respectively, which completely disappeared after treatment with bacterial biofilms. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis showed the appearance of new peaks in degraded metabolites and disappearance of a peak in the control spectrum after biofilm treatment. Thin layer chromatography (TLC) analysis also confirmed the degradation of CYP, IMI, MG and CR into several metabolites compared to the control. The present study demonstrates the biodegradation potential of biofilm-forming bacteria isolated from pesticide-polluted soil and dye effluents against pesticides and dyes. This is the first report demonstrating biofilm-mediated bio-degradation of CYP, IMI, MG and CR utilizing soil and effluent bacterial flora from Multan and Sheikhupura, Punjab, Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]