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Purpose: The construct of well-being using Mental Health Continuum-Short Form (MHC-SF) (Corey L. M. Keyes et al., 2008) has been studied across various cultures, validated across several populations and languages. However, there are no published psychometric properties of its Urdu version. This study is an attempt to bridge this gap. The need was felt to translate and linguistically validate the MHC-SF into the Urdu language for male and female Pakistani students. Methodology: The study had two phases: In phase, I, the Urdu translation of the MHC-SF was carried out using Mapi guidelines for the standard forward and backward translation methods. In phase II, validation of the MHCSF was determined, yielding confirmatory factor analysis. For the empirical evaluation, a sample of 712 students, including both 368 males and 344 females of undergraduate and postgraduate level with the age range of 18-28 years (M =23.58, SD= 3.35) were recruited. The psychometric evolution of the MHC-SF turned into excellent validity and reliability estimates for constructs. Moreover, strict measurement invariance was established for MHC-SF across males and females. Findings: The findings showed that the Urdu version of the MHC-SF had strong psychometric properties, and linguistically and culturally was acceptable. Thus MHC-SF was invariant at all measurement standards across males and females. Implications for Research and Practice: It is evident that this study would pave the way for positive psychology to make research available to measure the constructs more indigenously in future. Future research can utilize these psychometric properties of MHC-SF across different demographic variables.

The paper investigated the differences between teacher-centered (TC) and leaner-centered (LC) methods and the views of the students about the same in an academic context in Pakistan. Keeping in view the nature of research, mainly a qualitative research method was used. Data was collected by audio-recording two classroom discourses on LC and TC modes respectively. Further a questionnaire with a focus on open-ended questions was also served to the participants of the study. Data was analyzed informed by Conversation Analysis and Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA). The study showed certain conversational and ideological differences between the two types of discourses: TC and LC. The students preferred LC method. The study will help encouraging other academicians to carry out further research on different teaching methodologies. Moreover, it will contribute to the field of Applied Linguistics, specifically language teaching.

Background: Eating disorders (EDs) are serious mental health conditions that affect a person physically and psychologically. In the past, EDs were only recognized as a cultural phenomenon/societal by-product of the West. However, research evidence marks its presence in non-western countries also, including South Asia. This study aims to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a manualized psychological intervention called Getting Better Bite by Bite (GBBB) in individuals who screened positive on measures of EDs in Pakistan. Methods: The proposed study is a feasibility randomized controlled trial (fRCT). The study will be conducted at five sites across Pakistan: Karachi, Hyderabad, Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Multan to recruit a total of 80 participants. Eligible participants will be randomized to either (1) the intervention group; in which they will receive one-to-one sessions of GBBB along with routine care or (2) the routine care group; in which they will only have access to the routine care. We have received ethics approval by the National Bioethics Committee. The study is registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT05724394). The study team has received permission from recruitment centers: hospitals (i.e. the psychiatry department of public and private hospitals based in these cities), fitness centers (i.e., gyms), educational institutes (i.e., colleges and universities), and community settings (i.e. community health clinics). Self-referrals from General Practitioners and community settings will be accepted. The intervention manual has been translated into Urdu and a multidisciplinary team including service users has culturally adapted the content of intervention for local context. Discussion: This study will provide evidence on feasibility and acceptability of a culturally adapted intervention for individuals who screen positive on measures of EDs. The findings of this study will inform a fully powered Randomized Controlled Trial of the proposed intervention. Trial Registration. The study is registered on clinicaltrials.gov (NCT05724394). Protocol version (1.0. 1st June 2022). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leaders' integrity is a quality of influential leaders and a vital concept in organizational psychology; corporate researchers suggest that leaders' integrity and psychological empowerment should be a central theme in business leadership studies. The main objective of the current study was to examine the impact of perceived leaders' integrity on employees' engagement and mediating role of psychological-empowerment in employees. It was hypothesized that i) there would be a significantly positive relationship between perceived leader's integrity, psychologicalempowerment, and employee's engagement in employees; ii) Psychological-empowerment would mediate the relationship between perceived leader's integrity and employee's engagement in employees. We took a sample of (N = 320) employees from various government departments of Pakistan with the age range of (25–60) years. The sample was selected through purposive sampling technique. The study findings suggested that perceived leaders' integrity positively correlates with psychological-empowerment and employee's engagement. However, it is also revealed that psychological-empowerment fully mediates the relationship between perceived leaders' integrity and employee's engagement. Furthermore, demographic variables differed between study variables in employees. The current study's findings add to the literature about perceived leaders' integrity and employee's engagement. Organizations should take care of their employees' -psychological-empowerment and have complete insight into leaders'-integrity which help to enhance employee's-engagement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potato is an important food and cash crop globally and faces many challenges in Pakistan. These challenges include issues with soil fertility, pest and disease pressure and shortages of high-quality seed potatoes. The scarcity of high-quality seeds is a massive hassle in Pakistan. Farmers in Pakistan, often reuse their seeds or obtain them from informal sources. This practice leads to increased seed quality deterioration and tuber-borne diseases, resulting in decreased yields. To address this situation, aeroponic techniques can effectively meet this challenge. Aeroponics is a novel technique for producing high-quality seed potato, aiming to address the challenge of seed production. Aeroponic techniques are commercially practised in many countries. Thus, in this review, we have highlighted the importance of aeroponic technology and how this technique can help uplift/boost up the seed potato production system in Pakistan. The overview concludes that aeroponic seed production offers numerous benefits, including improved yields, and resistance, even as keeping natural resources. Despite the challenges, the evaluation indicates that the implementation of aeroponic seed production technology in Pakistan may offers a promising and sustainable technique for seed potato production in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Smokeless tobacco (SLT) products of several different types are widely used in several South Asian countries including Pakistan. These products are consumed in different forms and with different names. The study aims to determine adverse effects of the SLT consumption on periodontal tissues. Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted in Karachi, Pakistan. It recruited 377 users of (SLT) with 231 males (61.3%) and 146 females (38.7%) of age 15 to 45 years. After obtaining informed consent, quantitative data were collected via a questionnaire followed by intra oral clinical examination to determine presence of periodontal diseases using community periodontal index (CPI). To determine the association between periodontal diseases and smokeless tobacco consumption habits, Chi Square test was conducted. Results: Gingival recession (Class II-IV) (65.8%) was the most prevalent periodontal disease among SLT users. CPI score was high (CPI score 3 and 4) in 31.3% participants, whereas tooth loss was found in 21%. Among types of SLT products, gutka (28.6%) and betel quid (23.3%) were most commonly used. Using SLT for five or more years was found to be associated with a high CPI score, gingival recession (Class II-IV), moderate to severe tooth mobility, and presence of tooth loss. Conclusions: The study found statistically significant association between duration in years of using SLT and periodontal disease including gingival recession, tooth mobility and tooth loss. However, no significant results were found between retention during single use and frequency of SLT use per day. However, the link of these factors with the periodontal disease cannot be eliminated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interpersonal and inter-groups relationships based on social capital are a very critical and variable factor and could be a cause of cooperation or conflict among different actors. Conflicts related to land-use, especially infrastructure projects, happen in different forms over the world depending upon their intensity and have severe impacts on affected people in different ways regarding their position and their social inclusion. The article deals with the conflicts arising among different actors due to Diamer Bhasha Dam project in Pakistan. In order to assess these conflicts, we use different sources of data, mainly national and regional dailies, as well as interviews with experts and stakeholders. We examine different conflicts between affected people and governing bodies and also among different groups of local affected people over land and property rights. We show that a part of them is linked with the structure of social capital, be there a lack of communication between groups of bonding links within groups of people. The article further goes into compensation, resettlement and livelihood issues, poor planning, corruption and mismanagement of governing bodies and their impact on affected people. Finally, it provides policy measures and recommendations in the form of capacity building of affected people in different areas, more developmental projects in local area and public participation in different project activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Banana is one of the major cash and fruit crops of Pakistan. The lack of information concerning genetic diversity and purity within locally cultivated banana varieties is a major bottleneck in improving its genetics. Due to the existence of a narrow genetic background, it's quite important to find genomic variations in banana varieties. DNA marker-based techniques have been used to effectively characterize banana varieties. In the current study, Inter Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) markers were used to characterize banana cultivars and to assess the genetic diversity of 14 local banana varieties grown in Pakistan. Out of the 45 primers used, 40 primers revealed reproducible results and produced 121 polymorphic bands, which contributed a ratio of 47.87 polymorphism. The ISSR UBC-835 and UBC-834 possessed the highest PIC ranged between (86–88%) in banana varieties, while the lowest PIC (46%) was detected in the case of UBC−857 marker with (100–1500 bp) PCR product size. Pairwise Jaccard's similarity coefficient values were also calculated, and these were ranged from 0.56–0.88. Multivariate analysis divided 14 banana varieties into two distinct groups—A and B respectively—and furthermore into subgroups, clusters, and sub−clusters. Our results indicated that at the molecular level, the banana varieties in group—A were found to be 66% similar whereas in group B were 88% similar. Nei's genetic diversity, PCA analysis, and a minimum spanning tree depicted Fenjiao, Dajiao, and NIGAB-2 as the most diverse members as compared to all other varieties of the three populations. Out of 14 varieties used, 11 varieties were uniquely identified by 54 polymorphic ISSR bands of different sizes. Some varieties like NIGAB-2 and NIGAB-3 were uniquely identified only with one band while others were tagged by multiple unique bands. In future, this study will be utilized to establish a molecular-based protocol for the identification of banana varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research two cases of infrastructure development (Chotiari and Diamer Bhasha Dams) from Pakistan were studied in terms of a superposition of land uses and their consequences. For this purpose, we obtained qualitative information from both primary as well as secondary sources. Primary data were collected through a partially developed questionnaire from pre-selected experts of various professional backgrounds. National and regional dailies along with other published literature were used as a secondary source of information. The findings have identified the key groups of stakeholders and their relative social power at different levels of governance. The results further highlight that unfair land acquisition, improper displacement, mismanagement in compensation, etc., have caused negative impacts on local people and the surrounded environment. The article further emphasizes governance issues and conflicts among different actors due to the project. Finally, we recommend several actions to prevent strong opposition and conflicts in the infrastructural project in developing countries, like the enhancement of the capacities and the capabilities of the local population, the diffusion of information and the involvement of stakeholders, and the application of technical tools and devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ulmus villosa Brandis ex Gamble, an economically and ecologically important forest tree, is native to the western Himalayas of Pakistan. The long pressure imposed by unsustainable utilization and market demands has resulted in the rapid decline of the U. villosa population in the wild. To date, very limited information on the genomic diversity of U. villosa is available and this can tremendously limit our understanding of distribution and future conservation of U. villosa. Therefore, the current study aimed to assess genetic diversity within U. villosa wild populations of the Hazara Division using four barcoding markers (i.e., rbcL, matK XF + 5R, matK 390F + 1326R and trnH-psbA). A total of six high quality sequences were obtained with rbcL, four with matK XF + 5R, four with matK 390F + 1326R, and fourteen with trnH-psbA. The sequenced regions contained insertions and deletions as well as several SNPs across the length of sequences, and PCR-based markers may be developed from these novel SNPs markers. The phylogenetic results supported the polyphyletic origin of the genus Ulmus, and the data indicated that multiple speciation events may have led to the evolution of U. villosa in this region. For deeper understanding of the origin and evolution of U. villosa, sequencing of the complete nuclear and chloroplast genomes will be pivotal. The results herein provide novel insights into the genomic diversity as well as phylogenetic relationships of U. villosa with other species, and may facilitate both in situ and ex situ conservation efforts for this endangered species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Since the beginning of civilization, medicinal plants have been used in human healthcare systems. Studies have been conducted worldwide to evaluate their efficacy, and some of the results have triggered the development of plant-based medications. Rural women in Pakistan frequently experience gynaecological disorders due to malnutrition and heavy physical work during pregnancy. Due to the low economic status, the remoteness of the area, and the lack of modern health services, herbal therapy for gynaecological disorders is common among the indigenous tribes of the study area. Methods. Field surveys were carried out from April 2018 to October 2020 to collect data regarding medicinal plants used for different gynaecological disorders. A semistructured questionnaire was used to collect ethnogynaecological data. Results. In total, 67 medicinal plant species belonging to 38 families are being used to treat 26 different gynaecological problems. The herbaceous growth form and the Lamiaceae family were recorded with the maximum number of plant species (42 species and 7 species, respectively). Leaves are the most highly utilized plant part, with 16 species. In the case preparation method, decoction was the dominant method (25 species, 36.76%). The informants reported the maximum number of species for the treatment of irregular menstrual flow as 11 species (15.28%). The highest relative frequency of citation (RFC) value was obtained for Acacia modesta (0.37), and the use value (UV) for Tecomella undulata (0.85). The highest informants' consensus factor (ICF) value (1.0) was obtained for emmenagogue and tonic each after delivery. The highest consensus index (CI%) value was calculated for Acacia modesta (36.92%). The Lamiaceae had the highest family importance value (FIV) (98.46%). Conclusion. This is the first ever quantitative study focusing mainly on ethnogynaecological study conducted in the tribal areas of North Waziristan which highlights the importance of traditional herbal remedies for their basic medical requirements. The results of this study would serve as a baseline for advanced phytochemical and pharmacological screening, as well as conservationists for further studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Chinese Government commenced the One Belt One Road (OBOR) project in 2013 for the multidimensional development to restore the historical Silk Road paradigms. The Economic Corridor provides networks and connections based on two geographical territories. The China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is one of them, a chunk of the Silk Road Economic Belt's economic corridors. CPEC would be an economic game-changer for Pakistan. It will generate businesses, minimize poverty, generate employment opportunities, and improve local communities' health and education. However, it is more lucrative for the Chinese economy because CPEC is a safe, cheapest, and shortest route for importing energy rather than other routes. The present study investigates the social, infrastructural, and tourism effects of CPEC through the mediation role of rural development and knowledge sharing, including income, employment, business, land-use change variables, and CPEC adoptability for a local community in Pakistan. This study is based on four different regions of Gilgit Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, and Sindh in Pakistan. The study incorporates the collected data from the respondents living on the CPEC routes via face-to-face interviews from citizens (cities, villages, and towns). Besides, the study applied univariate and Structural Equation Model techniques to draw the results. The study results reveal that CPEC plays a significant role in Pakistan's socio-economic and rural development. This mega project's expectations might bring positive changes in infrastructure development, energy sector, and social development projects in Pakistan. The Results also indicated that CPEC would link rural areas to urban areas, which would offer development opportunities for rural regions to achieve sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study determined the application of terror management theory during the COVID-19 pandemic in Pakistan. Death anxiety and psychological distress were examined in the context of work status. A sample of 478 from the general population voluntarily participated in the study. Findings revealed a significant moderating role of work status, illustrating the strong relationship between psychological distress and death anxiety for non-working participants. Therefore, psychological distress is related to more significant death anxiety among non-working than those who are working. This study highlights the importance of work as an anxiety buffering factor concerning mortality thoughts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emerging adulthood is generally believed to be experienced by young people in Western industrialized nations and limited research has been conducted in Eastern low-income countries. The purpose of the current study was to examine emerging adulthood and its five dimensions in the cultural context of Pakistan, including (a) to explore whether Pakistani young individuals perceive themselves as full adults or feel in-between, (b) to identify perceived emerging adults and how they differ from perceived adults in terms of their demographic characteristics. A sample (N = 738) with the age range of 18–25 years was selected. Both male (52.2%) and female (47.8%) university students were approached. The Inventory of Dimensions of Emerging Adulthood (IDEA) (Reifman et al., in Journal of Youth Development, 2(1): 37–48, 2007) was used. Results revealed that the majority of the sample considered themselves as adults. However, a significant percentage of participants (43.4%) identified as perceived emerging adults. The results indicated that emerging adults significantly differ in dimensions of emerging adulthood based on their demographic traits, i.e., age group, working status, native town, residence, and monthly family income. The findings offered evidence that culture has an impact on emerging adulthood. Pakistan's unique cultural and social factors were discussed as possible reasons for the distinctive findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study intends to draw attention to women's proper standing in various Pakistani cultures in general and to their plight inside the Punjabi feudal system in particular. The study presents a sober debate and argument regarding the heinousness of Pakistan's patriarchal/feudal society. The patriarchal doctrine of superiority and servitude imposed on the two sexes, i.e. male and female separately, is deeply ingrained in the feudal system. Feudalism in Pakistan is a form of patriarchal social system that provides men more freedom to survive than women. This is an unjust way to live that has to be highlighted as a major issue so that it can be resolved or at the very least minimised. The study is qualitative and mostly focused on the contextual and discursive analysis of Tehmina Durrani's work My Feudal Lord. The topics in the chosen texts were examined by the academics using textual analysis. The researchers gathered M.M. Lazar's theoretical notions of feminism from chosen research papers/articles of the discourse analyst, i.e. Lazar, that are relevant to post-feminism in order to support and complete the needs of this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the cultural differences between the East and the West as interpreted by Uzma Aslam Khan in Trespassing (2003). The study also focuses on the societies and conditions of the mentioned cultures. The author of the novel thoroughly compares the incidents happening in the West with those in the East. The novel Trespassing focuses on the violence and the crisis that the politically suffering Pakistan is going through with the theme of love at its centre. To interpret the violence and crisis, on one hand, in Pakistan and peace and prosperity in America on another, the text of the novel has been closely analyzed through the critical commentaries by Nair, Feldman (2013). The novel also shows the transitional stage Pakistan went through in its Political scenario. Along with Feldman, some concepts of post-colonialism and the subaltern have provided a framework to the study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: High maternal and neonatal mortality rates in developing regions like Pakistan are linked to low rates of institutional deliveries. One way to improve rates of institutional deliveries is through improving institutional delivery service satisfaction in women. The aim of this research is to identify which factors influence delivery service satisfaction during the period of COVID-19 and which socio-demographic characteristics of women are associated with greater fear of catching COVID-19 during institutional deliveries. Methods: A total of 190 women who had given birth between May to June, 2020, were sampled from two private and two public sector hospitals in Lahore, Pakistan. A standardized tool was modified for use and a combination of descriptive statistics and multivariate regression was applied. Results: The results reveal that a majority of women, at 74.7%, are afraid of contracting COVID-19; specifically, women delivering at public hospitals, those who are illiterate or semi-literate, with more than four children, with low household income, and who are unemployed. Regression models are used to identify factors related to higher satisfaction, including the following: (i) pre-delivery care (explanatory power of R2 = 0.651); (ii) during delivery care (R2 = 0.716); (iii) after delivery care for women (R2 = 0.525); and (iv) after delivery care for newborn (R2 = 0.780). The main areas which influence satisfaction include the following: service quality of staff and administration; maintenance of hygiene and sanitation; involvement in decision-making; provision of necessary information; and advice for breastfeeding, immunization and family planning. Conclusions for Practice: Based on our findings, we recommend improved regulation of delivery services in both public and private hospitals and increased protection for disadvantaged women groups to maintain service quality during the pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eremias Fitzinger, 1834 is a speciose Eurasian genus of true lizards with approximately 40 species. Eremias species occurring in Pakistan have never been examined before using molecular genetics. In the present study, six out of seven morphologically defined taxa distributed in Pakistan (E. acutirostris, E. aporosceles, E. cholistanica, E. kakari, E. persica, and E. scripta) were studied using mitochondrial (16S rRNA, cytochrome c oxidase subunit I, cytochrome b) and nuclear (Rag1) genes. Data of 29 individuals were included in phylogenies using ENA/GenBank sequences. With a maximum of 20 species per analyzed data set, this study represents the most complete phylogeny of the genus to date. Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian analyses were run for concatenated (3,528 bp) and single‐locus data sets and supported by uncorrected p distance calculations to evaluate the phylogenetic placement and divergence of Pakistani taxa. Among the Pakistani taxa, we detected six mostly well‐supported and deeply divergent clades (A‐F) differing by uncorrected p distances of up to 23.8% for mtDNA (cytb) and 3.3% for the nuclear Rag1 locus. Despite morphological differences between E. aporosceles and E. acutirostris (both clade A), no unambiguous genetic support was found for these two taxa. Therefore, we regard E. aporosceles as a synonym of E. acutirostris. On the other hand, E. persica was found to represent a species complex with deeply diverged clades (E and F) in Pakistan. Eremias cholistanica (clade D) and E. kakari (clade B), two morphologically defined endemic taxa of Pakistan, were revealed as phylogenetically clearly distinct. Eremias scripta (clade C) from Pakistan was found to be genetically deeply divergent compared to sequences of this taxon from Afghanistan and Uzbekistan. Our study provides evidence that the current taxonomy of Eremias does neither reflect the genetic diversity nor the evolutionary history of the genus, necessitating a comprehensive integrative taxonomic revision of the whole genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has been an economic game changer for both China and Pakistan. We investigate stakeholder satisfaction with CPEC projects in Pakistan, particularly with respect to the affected local communities. Given the project application and adaptability, two provinces—Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab—and eight districts were selected randomly. Primary data from approximately 250 respondents as well as secondary data were collected. Among other models, a logit model was adopted to determine the role of certain factors in the perceived level of satisfaction. Results reveal that with respect to the relationship between land acquisition and dissatisfaction with a CPEC project, the level of dissatisfaction is 2.45 times higher when land is acquired by force or when compensation for the land is perceived to be inadequate by the local people. Individuals favor economic zones and development projects over road projects; the likelihood of being dissatisfied is approximately nine times greater in regions without economic zones than that in regions with such zones. Similarly, when no development project is allocated to a community, the probability of dissatisfaction of the local people is about 7.6 times greater. In addition, expectations of poor financial outcomes for CPEC projects cause significant dissatisfaction and are a source of tension among the local people. To reduce dissatisfaction, organizations and business communities must actively support the success of CPEC projects. A more equitable allocation of economic zones and development projects may help ease tensions and increase satisfaction among the local people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Child marriage (before 18 years) is widely prevalent in Pakistan, and disproportionately affects young girls in rural, low income and poorly-educated households. Our study aims to determine the association of child marriage and attitude towards wife beating among currently married Pakistani women aged 15-24 after controlling for social equity indicators (education, wealth index, rural residence). Methods: We limited the data from Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey, 2012-2013 to currently married women aged 15-24 years (n=2648). Five specified dichotomous variables indicating women's attitude towards wife beating (goes out without telling husband, neglects the children, argues with husband, refuses to have sex with husband, burns the food) were considered as outcome variables. The likelihood (OR and 95% CI) of each outcome variable for the child marriage group was estimated using logistic regression models. Results: The prevalence of child marriage was significantly higher among women having no education and Balochi ethnicity, living in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region and rural area, and belonging to the poorest quintile of wealth index. Women married as children compared with women married as adults were more likely to justify wife beating for all five specified reasons. However, these associations were lost when social equity indicators and national region of residence were adjusted in the regression models. Conclusions: Highly prevalent child marriage practice among women can be minimized by promoting education and providing economic opportunities in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present study intends to develop an indigenous tool to measure Pre-Marital Anxiety in adults of Pakistan and to assess psychometric properties of Pre-Marital Anxiety Scale (PMAS). Phenomenon of Pre-Marital Anxiety was explored by identifying the themes related to Pre-Marital Anxiety in youth. After wards by conducting the interviews and focus groups with adults (both men & women) and Match Maker, list of 81 items was drawn. Face and content validity was evaluated with relevance to clarity and construct on three-point rating. Items that bear above 20% on “NO” on relevance to construct were excluded. Pilot study was conducted to remove any ambiguity in items. Construct validity of PMAS with final 47 items was evaluated through Principal Component Analysis that came into results with six factor solution named as Anxiety to maintain relationship, Anxiety about proposal, Anxiety about Spouse, In-laws Concerns, Future concerns and financial concerns. Alpha reliability was α=.94. Whereas PMAS was evaluated for Test-Retest Reliability which was (r=.87). Convergent and Divergent validity were also evaluated which was (r= .55) and (r= -.60) respectively. It was concluded that PMAS is a valid and reliable tool to measure Pre-Marital Anxiety in youth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fertility desires has considerable impaction a couple's actual demand of children. High reproductive goals of Pakistani women particularly due to son preference hinder fertility control. It is therefore required to investigate the attitudinal determinants of son preference in Pakistan. Poisson regression model was used to fit a model for attitudinal determinants of desired number of sons in a family on the basis of the latest Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey (2012-13).Region, work status of women, age of women, education of women, wealth index and cousin marriage are found to be the significant factors affecting the ideal number of sons. Finally, it can be concluded that intention for a higher number of sons is strong among older, poorer, illiterate, working women and women who were married to cousins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to analyze the significance of gender in the occurrence of workplace bullying and exposure to its two forms including work-related bullying and person-related bullying. The purposive sample was composed of 400 employees (men = 200, women = 200) from higher educational institutes of Lahore, Pakistan. The age range of sample was 22 to 60 years (M = 33.95, SD = 8.0). Workplace Bullying Scale developed by Anjum and Shoukat (2013) and demographic information form were individually administered. Results revealed that women employees experienced workplace bullying more as compared to men employees. Women employees were much more likely to identify bullying behaviors as severe, unlike their men counterparts. Further, person-related form of bullying prevails more frequently among female employees. Overall, results indicate that bullying cannot be separated from gender and that such negative behaviors need to be seen in a gendered context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Child marriage (before 18 years) is prevalent in Pakistan, which disproportionately affects young girls in rural, low income and low education households. Our study aims to determine the association between early marriage and high fertility and poor fertility health indicators among young women in Pakistan beyond those attributed to social vulnerabilities. Nationally representative data from Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey, 2006-2007, a cross-sectional observational survey, were limited to ever-married women aged 20-24 years (n = 1,560; 15 % of 10,023) to identify differences in poor fertility outcomes [high fertility (three or more childbirths); rapid repeat childbirth (<24 months between births); unwanted pregnancy (any ever); pregnancy termination (any stillbirth, miscarriage or abortion ever)] by early (<18) versus adult (≥18) age at marriage. Associations between child marriage and fertility outcomes were assessed by calculating adjusted odds ratios (AORs) using logistic regression models after controlling for demographics, social equity indicators (education, wealth index, rural residence), contraception use, marriage duration and culture-specific factors (husband's desire for more children, son preference). Overall, 50 % of ever-married women aged 20-24 years in Pakistan were married before the age of 18 years. Girl child marriage was significantly ( p < 0.001) associated with low social equity indicators (poverty, rural residence, and no formal education). Adjusted logistic regression models showed that girl child marriage was significantly associated with high fertility (AOR 6.62; 95 % CI 3.53-12.43), rapid repeat childbirth (AOR 2.88; 95 % CI 1.83-4.54), unwanted pregnancy (AOR 2.90; 95 % CI 1.75-4.79), and pregnancy termination (AOR 1.75; 95 % CI 1.10-2.78). Girl child marriage affects half of all ever-married women aged 20-24 years in Pakistan, and increases their risk for high fertility and poor fertility health indicators, highlighting the need of increasing the age of marriage among women in Pakistan. Efforts to eliminate girl child marriage by strict law enforcement, promoting civil, sexual and reproductive health rights for women can help eliminate girl child marriage in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To assess the combined effect of consanguineous and child marriages (CCM) on children health, which has not previously been explored, either globally or locally. Methods We analyzed secondary data from a series of cross-sectional, nationally representative Pakistan Demographic and Health Surveys 1990-91, 2006-07, and 2012-13. A total of 5406 mothers with 10,164 children were included in the analysis. Child health was assessed by variables such as history of diarrhea, acute respiratory infection (ARI), ARI with fever, Under-5 child mortality (U5CM) and small-size birth (SSB). Associations among variables were assessed by calculating unadjusted Odd Ratios (OR) and adjusted OR (AOR). Results A majority (n = 6,247, 61%) of the births were to mothers having CCM as compare to non-CCM (3917, 39%). There was a significant association between CCM and U5CM during 1990-91 (AOR 1.24, 95% CI 1.03-1.49) and 2006-07 (AOR 1.25, 95% CI 1.05-1.51), and infant mortality in 1990-91 (AOR 1.39, 95% CI 1.05-1.85) and 2006-07 (AOR 1.61, 95% CI 1.17-2.21). A significant association was also found between CCM and SSB infants in the period 2006-07 (AOR 1.19, 95% CI 1.01-1.42) and 2012-13 (AOR 1.22, 95% CI 1.02-1.46). We noted no effect of CCM on diarrhea, ARI, and ARI with fever. Conclusion CCM increases the likelihood of U5CM, infant mortality and SSB infants. Further quantitative and qualitative research should be conducted to assess the effects of environmental, congenital and genetic factors on the health of children born to mothers in CCM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the association between maternal utilisation of health-care services and socio-demographic factors among reproductive-age women in Pakistan. We used the sample of ever-married reproductive-age women (n = 7446) from the Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey (PDHS), 2012–13. We measured maternal utilisation of health-care services by using three dependent variables: number of antenatal care (ANC) visits, delivery assistance by a skilled health provider, and delivery in a health-care facility. Around 36.6% of women had made four or more ANC visits, 59% had received assistance from skilled health providers during delivery, and 55.3% had given birth in a health-care facility. On multivariable logistic regression, all three variables were positively associated with education and wealth, and negatively associated with birth order and women’s autonomy. Policymakers and health planners may use our findings to develop efficient strategies, particularly for uneducated women and those with poor economic status, to improve the utilisation of maternal health-care services in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background: Our study attempts to describe the demographics, characteristics of victims and perpetrators, and circumstances leading to burn events among females in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Objective: To determine if intimate partner violence (IPV) was associated with unintended pregnancy and pregnancy loss among married women in Pakistan.Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted using nationally representative cross-sectional secondary data from women of reproductive age who were currently married and had participated in the domestic violence module of the 2012-13 Pakistan Demographic and Heath Survey. Unintended pregnancy and pregnancy loss were defined as any mistimed or unwanted pregnancy, and any pregnancy that resulted in spontaneous abortion, induced abortion, or stillbirth, respectively. Associations with IPV were assessed by calculating adjusted odds ratios using logistic regression models.Results: Data from 3518 individuals were included. Pregnancy loss had been experienced by 1282 (36.4%) participants and unintended pregnancy was reported by 391 (19.5%) of 2005 individuals this information was available for. In total, 1335 (37.9%) participants reported having ever experienced any form of IPV, including 919 (26.1%), 1112 (31.6%), and 697 (19.8%) participants who had experienced physical, emotional, and both emotional and physical IPV. Significant associations were observed between participants experiencing either physical or emotional IPV, emotional IPV, and both emotional and physical IPV, and unintended pregnancy (P=0.017, P<0.001, and P=0.011, respectively) and pregnancy loss (P=0.002, P=0.005, and P<0.001, respectively).Conclusions: There is an urgent need to develop preventive strategies to reduce intramarital IPV and its associated poor health outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Objective: To estimate the frequency of gallbladder perforation with conventional Monopolar Diathermy versus Harmonic scalpel in laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Study Design: Quasiexperimental study. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Surgery, Combined Military Hospital, Quetta Pakistan, from Sep 2018 to Sep 2019. Methodology: A total of 160 patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy for symptomatic gallstones were included in the study and were randomly allocated into two groups based on the surgical technique of dissecting gall bladder from the liver bed. In Group-A, Monopolar Diathermy was used, and in Group-B Harmonic scalpel was used. Frequency of gall bladder perforation and demographic details were recorded on predefined proforma. Results: In our study, mean age was 48.21±8.94 years and 49.14±9.31 years in Group-A and Group-B respectively. Comparison of Gallbladder perforation in both groups showed 17(21.25%) cases in Group-A and 5(6.25%) cases in Group-B, (p-value <0.001). Conclusion: In laparoscopic cholecystectomy, the frequency of gallbladder perforation with conventional monopolar diathermy is significantly higher compared to the harmonic scalpel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Child marriage (<18 years) is prevalent in Pakistan which is associated with negative health outcomes including intimate partner violence (IPV). Our aim is to describe the types and circumstances of IPV against women who were married as children in urban slums of Lahore, Pakistan. Methods: Women of reproductive age (15-49 years) who were married prior to 18 years, for at least 5 years were recruited from most populous slum areas of Lahore, Pakistan. Themes for the interview guide were developed using published literature and everyday observations of the researchers. Interviews were conducted by trained interviewers in Urdu language and were translated into English. The interviews were tape-recorded, transcribed, analyzed and categorized into themes. Results: All 19 participants were married between 11 and 17 years. Most respondents were uneducated, poor and were working as housemaids. Majority of participants experienced verbal abuse, and threatened, attempted and completed physical violence by their husbands. A sizeable number of women reported unwanted sexual encounters by their husbands. Family affairs particularly issues with in-laws, poor house management, lack of proper care of children, bringing insufficient dowry, financial problems, an act against the will of husband, and inability to give birth to a male child were some of the reasons narrated by the participants which led to IPV against women. Conclusions: Women married as children are vulnerable to IPV. Concerted efforts are needed from all sectors of society including academia, public health experts, policy makers and civil society to end the child marriage practice in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to discern paternal factors associated with neonatal deaths and births with low weight, independent of maternal and other socio-demographic factors. We analyzed the nationally representative sample of 5,724 ever-married women of reproductive age (15-49 years) who delivered their last child during the past 5 years preceding the Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey 2006-2007. We assessed adverse birth outcomes using two variables i.e. neonatal deaths (<28 days) and small size births (as a proxy for birth weight). Associations between paternal factors and adverse birth outcomes were assessed by calculating unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios using logistic regression models after controlling for maternal and socio-demographic factors. The analysis was performed by using the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 17. About 4.5 % mothers reported neonatal deaths and 34 % had small size births (SSB). We found that fathers involved in manual occupation were more likely to have neonatal deaths than fathers involved in managerial/professional jobs (adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 1.64; 95 % Confidence Interval (CI) 1.01, 3.55). Similarly, fathers who belonged to poorer wealth index had higher risk of SSB (aOR: 1.62; 95 % CI 1.18, 2.22). Additionally, consanguinity was a major risk factor which was associated with neonatal deaths (aOR: 1.73; 95 % CI 1.09, 2.74) and SSB (aOR: 1.25; 95 % CI 1.03, 1.55). Fathers' occupation including unemployment and consanguinity were associated with increased risk of adverse birth outcomes. Further studies are warranted to discern other paternal risk factors related to adverse birth outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study we examined motives for exercise as well as the frequency and amount of time spent in exercising in female and male undergraduates in two Muslim countries [Oman, n = 104 and Pakistan, n = 134] as compared with those of U.S. undergraduates [ n = 560]. As predicted, overall levels of exercise activity were found to be lower in undergraduates from Pakistan and Oman than in the U.S. sample, and higher in men than women across all three countries. Muslim women were least likely to exercise with the modal groups for both countries not exercising at all. Gender and country differences were more evident in reports of frequency and duration of exercise than in thinking about exercise. Thoughts about exercise predicted frequency and duration of exercise in all gender by country groups. Improving health was especially important as a reason for exercise for the Omani students, as predicted, although this motive was even higher in the Omani women than men. Pakistani women and men were motivated by wanting to relax (as predicted) and improve their appearance, an unexpected finding. For Spending Time with Others, Oman was highest, followed by Pakistan, and with the U.S. lowest, a result not predicted, although the more communal Muslim cultures may help explain this finding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The proportion of incompletely immunized children in Pakistan varies from 37-58%, and this has recently resulted in outbreaks of measles and polio. The aim of this paper is to determine the factors associated with incomplete immunization among children aged 12-23 months in Pakistan. Methods Secondary analysis was conducted on nationally representative cross-sectional survey data from the Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey, 2006-07. The analysis was limited to ever-married mothers who had delivered their last child during the 23 months immediately preceding the survey (n = 2,435). 'Complete immunization' was defined as the child having received twelve doses of five vaccines, and 'incomplete immunization' was defined if he/she had missed at least one of these twelve doses. The association between child immunization status and determinants of non-utilization of vaccines was assessed by calculating unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios (AOR) with 95% confidence intervals using a multivariable binary logistic regression. Results The findings of this research showed that nearly 66% of children were incompletely immunized against seven preventable childhood diseases. The likelihood of incomplete immunization was significantly associated with the father's occupation as a manual worker (AOR = 1.47; 95% CI: 1.10-1.97), lack of access to information (AOR = 1.35; 95% CI: 1.09- 1.66), non-use of antenatal care (AOR = 1.33; 95% CI: 1.07-1.66), children born in Baluchistan region (AOR = 1.74; 95% CI: 1.12-2.70) and delivery at home (AOR = 1.39; 95% CI: 1.14-1.69). Conclusions Despite governmental efforts to increase rates of immunization against childhood diseases, the proportion of incompletely immunized children in Pakistan is still high. Targeted interventions are needed to increase the immunization rates in Pakistan. These interventions need to concentrate on people with low socioeconomic and educational status in order to improve their knowledge of this topic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Tetanus still remains a major public health problem in Pakistan like in most other developing countries, with a high morbidity and mortality. Objectives: To study the demographic profile the clinical profile, the outcome of the tetanus patients and effectiveness of tetanus immunization coverage in district Faisalabad. Design: Retrospective record based study. Place and Duration: Surgical unit-5 DHQ Hospital, Faisalabad from January 2010 to December 2012. Subjects and Methods: All data of 198 patients of tetanus of any age and sex, diagnosed clinically was collected, compiled and analyzed from the Medical Records Department of the Hospital. Results: Out of 198 patients of tetanus, 138(69.7%) were males and 60(30.3%) were females. Their ages ranged from 1 to 85 years with a mean and a standard deviation respectively of 29.36 and 17.48 years. 162 (81.8%) were from rural and 36(18.2%) were from urban areas. 47(23.7%) patients were having prior immunization and 151 (76.3%) were not immunized. The most common presenting symptoms were trismus (47.5%), body stiff ness (24.2%),f its(19.2%) and respiratory distress(9.1 %). 23(11.6%) patients were having mild disease, 71 (35.9%) patients were having moderate disease, 71 (35.9%) patients were having severe disease and 33(16.7%) were having very severe disease. Overall mortality rate was 41.4%. Respiratory failure was the most common cause of death and there was statistically significant association between mortality and increasing grades of disease. Conclusions: By making expanded programme of immunization(EPI) more effective and removing flaws from out-dated vaccination through incomplete vaccination. By improving awareness in public and complete vaccination through EPI program, we can reduce the incidence of tetanus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To assess the association between child marriage (before 18 years of age) and maternal health care services use in Pakistan. METHODS: We limited the data from Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey, 2006-2007, to ever-married females aged 15-24 years with at least one childbirth (n=1,404) to identify differences in prenatal care provision (skilled or unskilled medical care provider), antenatal care (antenatal visits; care at home or a hospital), care at delivery (assistance by unskilled medical care provider), and place of birth by early (younger than 18 years) compared with adult (18 years or older) age at marriage. Associations between child marriage and health care services use were assessed by calculating adjusted odds ratios (OR) using logistic regression models after controlling for demographics, social equity indicators (education, wealth index, rural residence), employment status, and partners' education. RESULTS: Overall, 66.1% of ever-married respondents aged 15-24 years in Pakistan with at least one childbirth were married before the age of 18 years. More than half (61.9%) of females married as children had no formal education, and the majority (71.0%) resided in rural areas. Child marriage was significantly associated with decreased likelihood of any prenatal care (adjusted OR 0.73, 95% confidence interval [Cl] 0.534-0.993) and prenatal care by skilled medical care providers (adjusted OR 0.64, 95% Cl 0.476-0.871) and increased likelihood of delivery assistance by unskilled medical providers (adjusted OR 1.90, 95% Cl 1.435-2.518) and delivery at home (adjusted OR 2.17, 95% Cl 1.617-2.915). CONCLUSIONS: Efforts to increase the age of marriage and delay childbearing may have population-level effects on reducing disparities between females married as children and adults and improving maternal and child health in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: Children and adults involved in carpet weaving are prone to a number of health and safety problems. This paper describes initial impact of an ergonomically designed loom and work place modifications, to encourage young and adult workers to weave carpets and reduce the hazardous child labor in carpet weaving in the province of Punjab, Pakistan. METHODS: A new carpet loom with improved ergonomic and safety features suitable for adult carpet weavers was designed. Model carpet weaving worksites based on the new loom and better work environment were created in 30 villages. The impact of new loom compared with the traditional looms was assessed through structured questionnaires and health examinations after 24 months. RESULTS: Adolescent (15-17 years) and adult (> 17 years) participants included 75 respondents (males 10.7%, n=8; females 89.3%, n=67) operating under the new conditions and 92 respondents (males 12%, n=11; females 88%, n=81) operating under traditional conditions. Results indicated an improvement of health related complaints among those working in the new conditions, most notable were the differences in joint pain (p=0.002) and respiratory health (p=0.02). Improvement of income was also reported by workers at model workplaces. Also, no children below the age of 14 were found to be working at the new looms. CONCLUSIONS: The results indicate that individuals who adopted new looms and workplace interventions reported less joint pain and better respiratory health than those working with traditional looms in a traditional work environment. By reducing the risks in the workplace, this ergonomic intervention has the potential to reduce or eliminate hazardous child labor from carpet weaving. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection constitutes an important prison health care concern but data on HIV epidemiology among jail inmates of developing world including Pakistan is limited. The present study was carried out to find out the prevalence of HIV infection among inmates of two jails of Lahore, Pakistan. Methodology: Cross sectional prevalence survey of a total of 4915 jail inmates (4498 male and 417 females) was conducted during a seven months period, from May 2009 to November 2009 in the inmates of "District and Central Jails of Lahore". They were divided into four groups according to age. A blood sample was collected from each survey participant. All collected blood samples were screened for HIV antibodies, HBsAg and anti-HCV with rapid testing immunochromatographic (ICT) kits. All positive test results were confirmed by using the ELISA technique. Results: The overall HIV prevalence rate was 2.01% and 77.78% of them had co-infections. HIV/ HCV co-infection was detected in 73.74% of HIV positive inmates. Among women prisoners, one Pakistani and four Africans were found HIV positive. HIV infection and HBV/HCV co-infection was more prevalent in the age group 16-30 years. Conclusion: The prevalence rate of HIV infection and its HBV/HCV co-infection in jail inmates is much higher than the general population and the prevalence rate reported earlier from other jails in Pakistan. Health information on jail populations is important as this is a vulnerable group, with frequent movement in and out of the general community. Urgent prevention efforts are needed as HIV prevalence is already 2%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: The burden of burns is largely underreported due to the lack of a surveillance system in Pakistan. The aim of our study was to determine the incidence of burns and factors associated with their hospitalisation in the city of Rawalpindi, Pakistan. Methods: A prospective observational study from July 2007 to June 2008 was conducted. All the burn-related injury patients presenting to emergency departments (EDs) of the three public teaching hospitals in Rawalpindi city were included. A standard World Health Organization questionnaire was used to record the information about injury victims. Results: A total of 1498 burned patients presented to EDs. Females accounted for 40% of the patients. The majority of patients were ≤46 years. Most of the burns occurred at home (79.2%). The overall incidence of burn-related injuries per 100 000 inhabitants was 76.3 for emergency visits, 17.0 for hospitalisation and 0.3 for ED deaths. Female patients (adjusted odds ratio (aOR)=1.49, 95% confidence interval (95% CI)=1.09, 2.06), intentional burns (aOR=5.25, 95% CI=2.17–12.74) and injuries at work (aOR=3.81, 95% CI=2.40, 6.07) and in a market area (aOR=2.25, 95% CI=1.36–3.74) were more likely to result in hospitalisation. Conclusion: Rawalpindi city has a significant burden of burns. These results showed that investigating further factors leading to burns at home and work could be useful for future safety education campaigns. Moreover, continuous surveillance is warranted to decrease burns in Pakistan. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Honour killing (HK) is a problem of public health concern but published data on the phenomenon are limited and many cases likely go unrecognized. Our study focuses on the epidemiological patterns of HK of women in Pakistan, where domestic violence is common and HK occurs but is poorly described. Methods: Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) systematically collected data on HK of women using newspaper reports from January 2004 till December 2007. We analysed the aggregated data on HK through December 2007 and estimated the rates of HK. Results: A total of 1957 HK events occurred from 2004 to 2007; complete data was not available for all variables. Adults (≥18 years) constituted 82% (803/978) of death toll with 88% (1257/1435) being married. Alleged extramarital relation was the major reason for the killing (92%; 1759/1902). Husbands (43%; 749/1739), brothers (24%; 421/1739) and 'other' close relatives (12%; 200/1739) were the perpetrators in known HK events. Among the weapons/methods used for killing, firearms (61%; 1071/1768), stabbing (4%; 65/1 768), use of axe (12%; 220/1768), edged tool (8%;136/1768) and strangulation (9%; 167/1768) were the main means of execution. The mean annual rate of HK in females (age 15-64 years) was found to be 15.0 per million. Conclusions: Newspaper reports are good source of surveillance when information is limited. We found that adult married women constituted the majority of victims of HK. Ongoing surveillance would serve to better characterize HK in Pakistan and assess the effectiveness of preventive strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the perception of leaders of the academic medical institutions regarding the need for specialty training in emergency medicine. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in all medical colleges of Pakistan in September 2005. Our sample included all academic leaders of recognized medical colleges in Pakistan. A questionnaire was designed and sent (mailed and faxed) to vice chancellors, deans, principals or medical directors of the institutions. Reminders were sent through faxes and emails wherever available, followed by phone calls if responses were not available after several attempts. Results: At the time of study, there were 39 medical colleges recognized by Pakistan Medical and Dental Council. Of these, responses were received from 26 teaching institutions in the country. A majority of the respondents (85%) were not satisfied with the care provided in the ED of their primary teaching hospital, and three-fourth (74%) thought that doctors specialized in other disciplines, like internal medicine and family medicine, cannot adequately manage all emergencies. When asked if Pakistan should have a separate residency training programme in emergency medicine, 96% responded in affirmative, and many (85%) thought that they will start a residency programme in emergency medicine if it was approved as a separate specialty. Conclusion: This survey shows significant support for a separate local training programme for emergency medicine in the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The HIV epidemic in Pakistan is still "concentrated;" this window should be taken as an opportunity to prevent this epidemic to spread to general public by continuous surveillance and implementing evidence-based HIV preventive measures in the country. [3] Pakistan, even though has low burden of HIV/AIDS, with an estimated 85,000 people or 0.1 percent of the adult population living with HIV, the HIV/AIDS epidemic has begun in the country [Figure 1]. Editorial www.ijpm.ir International Journal of Preventive Medicine, V ol 3, No 12, December 2012 824 Concentrated HIV Epidemic in Pakistan: An Opportunity to Prevent Generalized Epidemic Muazzam Nasrullah 1,2 Globally, Human immunodeficiency virus infection / Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) is a major public health problem. [Extracted from the article]

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

Objective: To find out the degree and direction of correlation between social anxiety and self-consciousness, and to investigate the predictive role social anxiety plays in determining self-consciousness among female university students., Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted in six public and private sector universities of Lahore, Pakistan, from February to June 2019, and comprised female students aged 18-26 years. Data was collected using a demographic sheet in addition to the Social Anxiety Scale and the revised version of the Self-consciousness Scale. Data was analysed using SPSS 21., Results: There were 300 subjects with a mean age of 21.14±2.06 years. Age had significant inverse correlation with social anxiety (p<0.01), while no significant relation was found between age and self-consciousness. Private self-consciousness was positively correlated with public self-consciousness (p<0.01), evaluation anxiety (p<0.01) and interaction anxiety (p<0.05), while significant positive correlation was observed between public self-consciousness and all domains of social anxiety (p<0.01). Social anxiety was a strong positive predictor of self-consciousness (p<0.05)., Conclusions: Women experiencing elevated anxiety and distress during their social interactions or performing any task publically tended to be more self-conscious, self-critical and over-attentive to their actions.