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Background: Oculocutaneous albinism (OCA) is a genetically heterogeneous condition that is associated with reduced or absent melanin pigment in the skin, hair, and eyes, resulting in reduced vision, high sensitivity to light, and rapid and uncontrolled eye movements. To date, seventeen genes have been associated with OCA including syndromic and non-syndromic forms of the condition. Methods: Whole exome sequencing (WES) was performed to identify pathogenic variants in nine Pakistani families with OCA, with validation and segregation of candidate variants performed using Sanger sequencing. Furthermore, the pathogenicity of the identified variants was assessed using various in-silico tools and 3D protein structural analysis software. Results: WES identified biallelic variants in three genes explaining the OCA in these families, including four variants in TYR, three in OCA2, and two in HPS1, including two novel variants c.667C > T: p.(Gln223*) in TYR, and c.2009 T > C: p.(Leu670Pro) in HPS1. Conclusions: Overall, this study adds further knowledge of the genetic basis of OCA in Pakistani communities and facilitates improved management and counselling services for families suffering from severe genetic diseases in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change has significantly influenced the occurrence of extreme events and their outcomes in developing countries, like Pakistan. This research investigates the impact of climate variability on the development of Intensity Duration Frequency (IDF) curves using wavelet analysis across two Pakistani cities i.e. Abbottabad and Islamabad. IDF curves are produced utilizing the Statistical Software Package (HEC-SSP) and Hydrological Engineering Center and Watershed Modeling System (WMS), where daily meteorological (i.e., rainfall, and the approx. temperature) data from 1960 to 2020 (60 years) at Abbottabad and Islamabad was gathered from Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD). Initially, the relation between the observed data was extracted by applying the slope approaches of Mann-Kendall and Sen. Following the removal of serial correlation, generalized IDF curves are developed utilizing the time and turnaround for both stations. Finally, climate variability's impact on IDF curves was studied using wavelet analysis applied to three different pairs of input data, i.e., maximum, minimum, and mean temperatures against the developed IDF curves. Results showed that wavelet analysis are extremely useful to monitor the climate variability's influence/role on frequency and return periods of flood events (i.e., IDF curves). The developed IDF curves showed higher intensities during the monsoon period, whereas lower intensities of IDF curves are observed in other months against the 24 hours' duration of different return periods. Results also depicted that Abbottabad has experienced higher intensity of rainfall as compared with Islamabad city, which might be linked due to the changing climate and the use of land in both cities and verified by the results obtained from wavelet analysis. Increased cloud cover and precipitation resulted from the orographic effect, coupled with the influence of lower temperatures at elevated altitudes. Wavelet analysis showed a strong impact of climate (i.e., temperature) on IDF curves, where significant changes in the period and frequency are observed between the two cities. Overall, this study will be useful to understand how IDF curves are affected by climate variability while predicting the future flood events and sustainable design of urban drainage system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Earthquakes are one of the most terrible and catastrophic natural disasters, responsible for widespread infrastructure and population losses. This study presented an integrated procedure to assess seismic risk considering the seismic hazard, vulnerability, coping capacity and resilience in the seismically active area in Northern, Pakistan. High-resolution satellite imageries coupled with extensive field investigations have led to the creation of building footprints along with building typological information. Twenty-eight envisaging subfactors related to seismic hazard, physical, social and economic vulnerability accompanied by response and recovery were utilized for the evaluation of detail and comprehensive seismic risk map. Overriding the constraint of limited factors and using the rich vulnerability data on a local scale, a detailed risk assessment at high resolution is performed to identify sites prone to high seismic risk. Prepared with Arc GIS grid technology and Analytical Hierarchy Process, the seismic vulnerability map revealed that 1.8 km2 (6.4%) and 0.5 km2 (1.8%) of the total area have high to very high vulnerability. The final seismic risk map shows that villages including Chella Bandi, Dhanni Mysiba, Makri, Dherian Syedian, Ranjata, Baila Noor Shah, Taami, Middle Gojra, Lower Gojra, Rasheed Abad and Upper Chattar lie in high-risk class while Pilot, Madina Market area, Shahnara and Domail villages fall in very high class taking up an area of 1.8 km2 (6.4%). Seismic risk hotspots identified in this study can help decision-makers in prioritizing the deployment of funds and other resource allocation in these areas. This knowledge informs building codes and land use planning, guaranteeing higher building standards in seismically active areas. Critical structures in designated hotspots are the main focus of infrastructure design and retrofitting efforts can be aimed at improving their seismic resilience framework. Plans for emergency responses can be created taking into account possible effects in high-risk regions to enable effective and focused crisis management. Furthermore, these results impact public awareness campaigns, insurance plans, and community involvement programs to lessen the overall damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In wake of current digitalization of knowledge, the use of virtual tools and platforms is proliferating to cultivate English language skills. Despite the research conducted in this area, there is still room for further inquiry as little research is available in the context of Pakistan. With the intention to fill the gap, this study aimed at fathoming the impact of online writing articles on the language proficiency of English language learners/graduates. Primarily, the current research intended to investigate whether the language skills of learners improves by online writing and whether self-assessment has a positive impact. The study is a quantitative research. Consequently, a 15-item questionnaire was designed to collect data from English Graduates, currently working as content writers across Pakistan. 5-point Likert-scale was employed to measure the participants' perceptions. The findings show that online writing practices have a positive impact on overall language skills in general and lexico-grammatical competence in particular. Additionally, they admitted that online article writing can prove a better contributor than other traditional writing practices carried out in a language classroom to enhance their English language skills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the current study was to map the genetic diversity in the haemagglutinin (HA) glycoprotein of influenza A viruses (IAVs) of the H9N2 subtype. Twenty-five H9N2 IAVs were isolated from broiler chickens from March to July 2019. The HA gene was amplified, and phylogenetic analysis was performed to determine the evolutionary relationship. Important antigenic amino acid residues of HA attributed to immune escape and zoonotic potential were compared among H9N2 IAVs. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that sublineage B2 under the G1 lineage in Pakistan was found to be diversified, and newly sequenced H9N2 isolates were nested into two clades (A and B). Mutations linked to the antigenic variation and potential immune escape were observed as G72E (1/25, 4%), A180T (3/25, 12%), and A180V (1/25, 4%). A twofold significant reduction (P < 0.01) in log2 hemagglutination inhibition titers was observed with H9N2 IAV naturally harboring amino acid V180 instead of A180 in HA protein. Moreover, in the last 20 years, complete substitution at residues (T127D, D135N, and L150N) and partial substitution at residues (72, 74, 131, 148, 180, 183, 188, 216, 217, and 249, mature H9 HA numbering) associated with changes in antigenicity were observed. The presence of L216 in all H9N2 IAV isolates and T/V180 in four isolates in the receptor-binding site reveals the potential of these viruses to cross the species barrier to infect human or mammals. The current study observed the circulation of antigenically diverse H9N2 IAV variants that possess potential mutations that can escape the host immune system. Nota de investigación- Mapeo de marcadores genéticos asociados con la antigenicidad y el rango de huéspedes en los virus de la influenza tipo A subtipo H9N2 que infectan a la avicultura en Pakistán. El objetivo del presente estudio fue mapear la diversidad genética en la glicoproteína hemaglutinina (HA) de los virus de la influenza A (IAV) del subtipo H9N2. Se aislaron veinticinco virus de influenza H9N2 de pollos de engorde de marzo a julio del 2019. Se amplificó el gene HA y se realizó un análisis filogenético para determinar la relación evolutiva. Se compararon importantes residuos de aminoácidos antigénicos de la hemaglutinina atribuidos al escape inmunológico y al potencial zoonótico entre los virus de la influenza aviar H9N2. El análisis filogenético reveló que el sublinaje B2 bajo el linaje G1 en Pakistán estaba diversificado, y los aislados de H9N2 recién secuenciados se agruparon en dos clados (A y B). Se observaron mutaciones relacionadas con la variación antigénica y el posible escape inmunológico como los residuos de aminoácidos G72E (1/25, 4%), A180T (3/25, 12%) y A180V (1/25, 4%). Se observó una reducción significativa al doble (P < 0.01) en los títulos de inhibición de la hemaglutinación log2 cuando el virus de la influenza aviar H9N2 albergaba naturalmente el aminoácido V180 en lugar del A180 en la proteína HA. Además, en los últimos 20 años, sustitución completa en los residuos (T127D, D135N y L150N) y sustitución parcial en los residuos (72, 74, 131, 148, 180, 183, 188, 216, 217 y 249, de acuerdo con la numeración de la HA subtipo madura) asociados con cambios en la antigenicidad. La presencia del residuo L216 en todos los aislados de influenza aviar H9N2 y T/V180 en cuatro aislados en el sitio de unión al receptor revela el potencial de estos virus para cruzar la barrera de las especies para infectar a humanos o mamíferos. El estudio actual observó la circulación de variantes antigénicamente diversas del virus de influenza aviar H9N2 que poseen mutaciones potenciales que pueden escapar del sistema inmunológico del huésped. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ants belonging to the Monomorium indicum (Formicidae: Hymenoptera) species are ubiquitous insects that are commonly associated with household settings in Pakistan. Packaged foodstuffs are easily destroyed by household ants when packaging is made with materials that have a high susceptibility. This study evaluated the susceptibility of three common flexible plastic packaging materials namely: opaque polyethylene, transparent polyethylene and polypropylene, which were each tested at thicknesses of 0.02mmfor their susceptibility against M. indicum. Except opaque polyethylene which is only available at 0.02mmthickness, both transparent polyethylene and polypropylene were tested at higher thickness of 0.04 mm and 0.06 mm also against M. indicum. In order to simulate household settings, experiments were conducted at the faculty building of the agriculture and environment department of The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Pakistan during summer vacations when the building was quiet. Different corners were selected near water sources for maximum exposure to the largest number of ants. Experimental cages used for the experiment were built with wood and 2 mm iron gauze to allow only ants to enter the cages. Daily activity of ants was used as an infestation source in cages. Experiments were run over three time spans of fifteen days each from June 20th 2022 to August 15th 2022. Results showed all packaging materials were susceptible against M. indicum at the 0.02 mm thickness level. Polypropylene was susceptible at 0.04 mm thickness but resistant to ants at 0.06 mm thickness, whereas polyethylene was still susceptible to ants at the higher thickness of 0.06 mm. Correlation of packaging damage with weather factors showed that temperature had a positive relationship, while relative humidity had a negative association with M. indicum attack. Overall correlation of packaging damage with packaging thickness showed packaging thickness was negatively associated with packaging damage from the ants. Because major cutting role is performed by the mandibles, we studied mandibles of ants and three frequent pests of packaged foodstuff namely Rhyzopertha dominica, Tribolium castaneum and Trogoderma granarium. The results showed that ants had the largest mandible and frontal mandibular tooth lengths compared with the mandibles and frontal teeth of the common stored product pests, indicating M. indicum household ants have a higher pest status for packaged foodstuffs compared to common stored product pests. Although the thickness of the flexible plastic packaging was a major factor against household ants, the study results recommend the use of polypropylene with a thickness of at least 0.06 mm as foodstuff packaging against household ants compared with polyethylene packaging, which was found to be susceptible to ants even at 0.06 mm thickness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The present study investigated Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) outbreaks in cattle, examining the virus's genotoxic impact and antioxidant therapy efficacy. PCR-confirmed infected cattle were divided into control and treated groups. Selenium and vitamin E were administered to the treated group. Post-therapy, there were notable improvements in hematological indices and reduced serum nitric oxide and malondialdehyde levels. A strong correlation was found between serum nitric oxide, malondialdehyde, and genetic damage. Ordinal logistic regression analysis indicated that substantially improved genotoxicity in treated animals. In conclusion, LSD induces oxidative stress and genotoxicity in cattle, effectively mitigated by Selenium and vitamin E therapy. Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is a contagious infection of cattle caused by a virus of the Poxviridae family, genus Capripoxvirus. In Pakistan, recent outbreaks have resulted in significant nationwide mortality and economic losses. A 20-day prospective cohort study was performed on sixty infected cattle with the aim to evaluate LSD-induced oxidative stress's genotoxic role and to determine the ameliorative effect of antioxidant therapy using principal component analysis (PCA) and a multivariable ordinal logistic regression model. LSDV was identified from scab samples and nodular lesions using RPO30-specific gene primers. The infected cattle were divided into control and treated groups. The animals were observed initially and finally on day 20 to evaluate the homeostatic, oxidative, and genotoxic changes. The animals in the treated group were administered a combination of selenium (Se) and vitamin E at the standard dose rate for five consecutive days. A substantial (p < 0.05) improvement in the hematological indices was observed in the treated group. The treated group also showed a significant (p < 0.05) reduction in levels of serum nitric oxide (NO) and malondialdehyde (MDA) post-therapy. The PCA at the final sampling data of the treated group showed that Principal Component (PC1 eigenvalue 1.429) was influenced by superoxide dismutase (SOD; 0.3632), catalase (CAT; 0.2906), and glutathione (GSH; 0.0816) and PC2 (eigenvalue 1.200) was influenced by CAT (0.4362), MDA (0.2056), and NO (0.0693). A significant correlation between serum NO (76%) and MDA levels (80%) was observed with genetic damage index (GDI) scores. The ordinal logistic regression model regarding the use of antioxidant therapy revealed 73.95-times (95%CI; 17.36–314.96) improvement in the GDI in treated animals. The multivariable ordinal logistic regression showed that each unit increase in NO and MDA resulted in a 13% increase in genotoxicity in infected individuals. In conclusion, our study revealed that LSD-induced oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation product causes genotoxicity in affected animals. Furthermore, the combined Se and vitamin E therapy significantly alleviated oxidative stress and genotoxicity in LSD-affected cattle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Food safety is a crucial aspect of human well‐being, covered under the second sustainable development goal (SDG). Sustainable food supply chains must ensure compliance with food safety standards from farm to fork. Consumers in developed countries are becoming ever more demanding regarding 'producers' compliance with food safety and quality standards. Most food products ending up in high‐end markets come from developing countries, predominantly agricultural economies characterised by fragmented and smallholder farmers. Owing to enhanced agricultural exports, developing countries are struggling to implement or improve food safety standards. This study examines the link between the willingness of smallholder dairy farmers to adopt minimum food safety standards and the country's ability to export agri‐food products. Moreover, it investigates the role of farmer's supply chain learning and level of value addition in this relationship. A cross‐section of 260 smallholder dairy farmers was surveyed from four districts of the Punjab province in Pakistan through purposive sampling. The data were collected using a questionnaire using a 5‐point Likert scale to gauge 'farmers' responses. The data were analysed using structural equation modelling (SEM) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). We found significant mediation of supply chain learning and value addition between compliance with minimum food safety standards and the country's export potential. This study contributes to the body of knowledge on food safety by testing its relationship with a country's export potential and the factors affecting this relationship. Moreover, it provides food for thought for policymakers in food safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthrax, a severe zoonotic disease, is infrequently reported in anthrax-endemic regions of Pakistan. Despite clinical reports indicating its presence, particularly cutaneous anthrax, there is insufficient laboratory evidence regarding disease occurrence and environmental persistence. The present study aimed to confirm Bacillus anthracis presence, accountable for animal mortality and human infection, while exploring environmental transmission factors. Between March 2019 and July 2021, a total of 19 outbreaks were documented. Of these, 11 affected sheep/goats in Zhob district and 8 affected cattle/sheep in Bajour Agency. Clinical signs suggestive of Bacillus anthracis outbreak were observed in 11 animals. Blood and swab samples were collected for confirmation. The study followed a One Health approach, analyzing animal, environmental (soil/plant), and human samples. Of the 19 outbreaks, 11 were confirmed positive for anthrax based on growth characteristics, colony morphology, and PCR. Soil and plant root samples from the outbreak areas were collected and analyzed microscopically and molecularly. Cutaneous anthrax was observed in six humans, and swab samples were taken from the lesions. Human serum samples (n = 156) were tested for IgG antibodies against PA toxin and quantitative analysis of anthrax toxin receptor 1 (ANTXR1). Bacillus anthracis was detected in 65 out of 570 (11.40%) soil samples and 19 out of 190 (10%) plant root samples from the outbreak areas. Four out of six human samples from cutaneous anthrax lesions tested positive for Bacillus anthracis. Human anthrax seroprevalence was found to be 11% and 9% in two districts, with the highest rates among butchers and meat consumers. The highest ANTXR1 levels were observed in butchers, followed by meat consumers, farm employees, meat vendors, veterinarians, and farm owners. These findings highlight the persistence of anthrax in the region and emphasize the potential public health risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The first aim of study was to quantify the viral load in the wastewater samples by RT-qPCR testing in Lahore population to estimate the number of patients affected and predict the next resurgence of COVID-19 wave in the city. The second aim of the study was to determine the hotspot areas of Lahore which remained positive more often for virus with high viral load. In this study, n = 420 sewage samples were collected on an average of two weeks intervals from 30 different sewage water disposal stations (14 sampling events) from Sept 2020 to March 2021. RNA was extracted and quantified by RT-qPCR without concentrating the virus in samples. Number of positive disposal sites (7–93%), viral load from sewage samples (100.296 to 103.034), and estimated patients (660–17,030) ranged from low to high according to the surge and restrain of 2nd and 3rd COVID-19 waves in the country. The viral load and estimated patients were reported high in January 2021 and March 2021 which were similar to the peak of 2nd and 3rd waves in Pakistan. Site 18 (Niaz Baig village DS) showed the highest viral load among all sites. Findings of the present study helped to estimate the number of patients and track the resurgence in COVID-19 waves in Lahore particularly, and in Punjab generally. Furthermore, it emphasizes the role of wastewater-based epidemiology to help policymakers strengthen the quarantine measures along with immunization to overcome enteric viral diseases. Local and national stake holders should work in collaboration to improve the environmental hygiene to control the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants has posed a challenge to disease control efforts worldwide. This study explored the genomic diversity and phylogenetic relationship of SARS-CoV-2 variants reported in Pakistan. Our objective was to understand the transmission dynamics of different lineages within the country. We retrieved and analyzed spike protein sequences from Pakistan and compared them with reference sequences reported worldwide. Our analysis revealed the clustering of Pakistan-origin isolates in nine different clades representing different regions worldwide, suggesting the transmission of multiple lineages within the country. We found 96 PANGO lineages of SARS-CoV-2 in Pakistan, and 64 of these corresponded to 4 WHO-designated variants: Alpha, Beta, Delta, and Omicron. The most dominant variants in Pakistan were Alpha (B.1.1.7), Beta (B.1.351), Delta (B.1.617.2, AY.108), and Omicron (BA.2.75, BA.5.2), and the N-terminal domain and receptor binding regions were the most hypervariable regions of the spike gene. Compared to the reference strain, characteristic substitutions were found in dominant variants. Our findings emphasize the importance of continuously monitoring and assessing nucleotide and residue substitutions over time to understand virus evolutionary trends better and devise effective disease control interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bilateral ties between Pakistan and Ethiopia were examined in this research. It demonstrates the connection between their histories, political contacts, and economic ties, as well as further analyses Pakistan's political and economic interests with these nations. Understanding the underlying dynamics driving the under-look Africa policy, an initiative that produces healthy relation in Africa, involves a case study of Ethiopia, a major African economic power. To acquire data, the qualitative research methodology was chosen, including interviews with ambassador professor and business people contact analysis of secondary material within a geo-economics theoretical framework. This research used discussions and reports.in a world where Africa's sustainability is both moral and political Pakistan's connection with Ethiopia should be enhanced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Modern medical education has flourished with an emergent interest in a variety of assessment approaches that entails direct observation of performance and provision of feedback. Workplace-based assessment (WPBA) has been embraced into specialty training in the United Kingdom (UK) within National Health Service (NHS). In Pakistan, this educational framework is incorporated to gauge the clinical proficiency of trainees at the postgraduate and undergraduate levels. The present study was done to identify how WPBA is perceived by dental field postgraduate trainees in Pakistan. OBJECTIVE: The study explored and ascertained trainees' perceptions, attitudes, and preferences considering their experiences with the systematic organization and execution of WPBA in dental educational settings. METHODS: This cross-sectional study design involved the clinical trainees of various cadres in a tertiary care hospital in Multan. A structured and validated questionnaire previously used for another analysis was administered among 90 trainees at the institute. The results were analyzed and tabulated using SPSS-21. Influential statistics (Pearson's Chi-Square Test) was performed and the confidence interval was set at 95% (P≤0.05). RESULTS: The response rate was 88%. Opinions were more positive compared to the former surveys. The majority of the respondents (65.8%) have shown a positive attitude towards WPBA and preferred it to be a valuable assessment system as it fosters reflective practices in educational settings. In addition, it was shown that WPBA has the potential to improve clinical training (72.2%) and aid in the effective implementation of clinical practice (68.4%). As the system of digital education has been introduced ever since the pandemic, the highest percentage of participants (56%) preferred a combination of on-paper and online assessment systems. CONCLUSION: The study reported that WPBA proposes the opportunity to associate teaching, learning, and assessment. The faculty training program is a significant input to upholding the quality of WPBA. Empirical research on WPBA is essential to be carried out to overcome the inadequacies thus endorsing its application universally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite calls for the much-needed involvement of physicians in leadership, very few medical colleges in Pakistan provide explicit training on the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to be an effective physician leader. Objective: To explore Pakistani medical students' perceptions, attitudes, and interests regarding Leadership training in medical education. Methods: Participants were asked about their perceptions and attitudes towards medical leadership on a 5- point Likert scale. Students also self-rated their leadership competencies noted as per Medical Leadership Competency Framework. Survey also assessed the perceived need and topics for a leadership curriculum for physician leaders, the teaching format, and barriers to leadership training in medical schools. Data was analyzed using SPSS 26. Results: About 60.6% of the total 1204 respondents rated their leadership training in medical college as "very poor" or "poor" and 80.3% of them endorsed their interest and need for it. 77.4% of the participants agreed that clinicians should influence leadership decisions in a clinical setting. Only 25% of respondents were aware of the demands of a leadership rank in medicine. Leadership competencies endorsed for training included problem-solving, leading a team, confronting problematic employees, and communication skills with a multimodal teaching approach, including teaching methods like small group discussions. The main barriers to leadership training were identified as time constraints (66.1%), lack of available curriculum (69.0%), and disinterest by faculty (67.0%). Conclusion: Our study suggests that medical students in Pakistan appreciate the importance of leadership training in undergraduate education. There is a need for dedicated leadership teaching and study data to specify the possible content and delivery methods to serve as goals for an undergraduate leadership curriculum in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vaccines are one of the efficient means available so far for preventing and controlling the infection rate of COVID-19. Several researchers have focused on the whole virus's (SARS-CoV-2) inactivated vaccines which are economically efficient to produce. In Pakistan, multiple variants of SARS-CoV-2 have been reported since the start of the pandemic in February 2020. Due to the continuous evolution of the virus and economic recessions, the present study was designed to develop an indigenous inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccine that might help not only to prevent the COVID-19 in Pakistan, it will also save the country's economic resources. The SARS-CoV-2 were isolated and characterized using the Vero-E6 cell culture system. The seed selection was carried out using cross-neutralization assay and phylogenetic analysis. The selected isolate of SARS-CoV-2 (hCoV-19/Pakistan/UHSPK3-UVAS268/2021) was inactivated using beta-propiolactone followed by vaccine formulation using Alum adjuvant, keeping the S protein concentration as 5 μg/dose. The vaccine efficacy was evaluated by in vivo immunogenicity testing in laboratory animals and in in vitro microneutralization test. The phylogenetic analysis revealed that all the SARS-CoV-2 isolates reported from Pakistan nested into different clades, representing multiple introductions of the virus into Pakistan. The antisera raised against various isolates from different waves in Pakistan showed a varied level of neutralization titers. However, the antisera produced against a variant (hCoV-19/Pakistan/UHSPK3-UVAS268/2021; fourth wave) efficiently neutralized (1:64–1:512) all the tested SARS-CoV-2 isolates. The inactivated whole virus vaccine of SARS-CoV-2 was safe and it also elicited a protective immune response in rabbits and rhesus macaques on the 35th-day post-vaccination. The activity of neutralizing antibodies of vaccinated animals was found at 1:256–1:1024 at 35 days post-vaccination, indicating the effectiveness of the double-dose regime of the indigenous SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Congenital idiopathic nystagmus (CIN) is an oculomotor disorder characterized by repetitive and rapid involuntary movement of the eye that usually develops in the first six months after birth. Unlike other forms of nystagmus, CIN is widely associated with mutations in the FRMD7 gene. This study involves the molecular genetic analysis of a consanguineous Pakistani family with individuals suffering from CIN to undermine any potential pathogenic mutations. Blood samples were taken from affected and normal individuals of the family. Genomic DNA was extracted using an in-organic method. Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) and analysis were performed to find any mutations in the causative gene. To validate the existence and co-segregation of the FRMD7 gene variant found using WES, sanger sequencing was also carried out using primers that targeted all of the FRMD7 coding exons. Additionally, the pathogenicity of the identified variant was assessed using different bioinformatic tools. The WES results identified a novel nonsense mutation in the FRMD7 (c.443T>A; p. Leu148 *) gene in affected individuals from the Pakistani family, with CIN resulting in a premature termination codon, further resulting in the formation of a destabilized protein structure that was incomplete. Co-segregation analysis revealed that affected males are hemizygous for the mutated allele c.443T>A; p. Leu148 * and the affected mother is heterozygous. Overall, such molecular genetic studies expand our current knowledge of the mutations associated with the FRMD7 gene in Pakistani families with CIN and significantly enhance our understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in genetic disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ecological and health-related issues have given rise to scholars and investigators' concerns in exploring the determinantal effects of organic food. But little attention has paid to the actual buying behaviour regarding organic foods; especially in developing economies such as Pakistan. Therefore, this study aims to analyze the actual consumer's purchasing behaviour about organic food. A theoretical framework based on green perceived value was developed to observe the study's objectives that determine the consumers' buying behaviour and intention. The moderating effects of food neophobia was also analyzed. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) approach is used for analysis, and data collection was made from millennial, which is considered the most significant consumer part in Pakistan. Answers of 1324 university students indicate that all values, i.e., social (0.101), functional (0.314), conditional (0.228), and emotional (0.521) has a significant and positive impact on buying intent of users. Furthermore, consumers' intention to buy organic produce (0.282) is positively linked with buying behaviour, and food neophobia (0.091) also moderates positively between intention to purchase and organic food consumption. Moreover, the current study offers valuable insights to manufacturers, researchers, and advertisers of natural food. The study concluded the suggestions for future studies, and the limitations of the study are also stated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Religious tourism is a pioneering form of tourism that began at the dawn of mankind. Pakistan has many sacred sites in every state and people from all over the world visit these places. Notably, the Sikh community has many sacred sites, relics and Shrines that many Indian national Sikhs visit to pay for their rituals. But the big hurdle was the Indian- Pakistan clashes and the toxic history both share. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s 22nd Prime Minister Imran Khan took the initiative of opening the Kartar Pur Corridor and allowing Sikh pilgrims to perform their holy rituals without a visa. Moreover, the country has more religious sites such as Panja Sahib in Hasanabdal where the Shrine of Guru Nanak has a holy stone. The stone is a sacred relic and has a story behind it. Around 2000 visitors come to Panja Sahib every festival. The pilgrims at Panja Sahib Shrine were studied as a sample for the study. This research studied that the Sikh community is satisfied with their religious tour experience and has responded positively to the efforts and developments made by Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To look for patients of sepsis with a qSOFA score of more than two and an association of a high qSOFA score with mortality and other socio-demographic factors. Study Design: Comparative cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Medicine, Combined Military Hospital, Sialkot Pakistan, from Nov 2021 to May 2022. Methodology: All baseline and relevant investigations were carried out at the time of initial clinical assessment, and the qSOFA score was calculated by a consultant medical specialist for all the patients diagnosed with the septic condition. Patients were followed up for two weeks to look for mortality. Results: A total of 500 patients, managed for sepsis during the study period were included in the study. Of them, 298(59.6) were males, while 202(40.4) were females. Out of all the patients in the study, 379(75.8) had a qSOFA score of two or less than two, while 121(24.2) had a qSOFA score of more than two. Increased mortality, patients with more than 50 years and comorbid illnesses were found statistically significantly more in the group having a qSOFA score of more than two (p-value<0.001). Conclusion: Mortality was significantly high in patients with sepsis who had a qSOFA score greater than two at the time of initial assessment compared to those with a score of two or less. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Stressful situations are often linked with poor health and lifestyle behaviors (e.g., unhealthy diet, limited physical activity, poor sleep quality etc.). Subsequent to the nationwide lockdown in Pakistan due to COVID-19 pandemic, medical students experienced substantial lifestyle changes along with academic stresses. The goal of this study was to measure the impact that the COVID-19 lockdown had on lifestyle like sleep, physical activity and nutrition, substance abuse, dealing with finances, spirituality and family life, with respect to a sample of Pakistani medical students. Methods: This cross- sectional online study involving 1100 medical students (68.7% females) from five medical colleges in Pakistan, used self-administered questionnaire to evaluate the impact of pandemic related restrictions on lifestyle of medical students in Pakistan from August- September 2020. Parameters such as physical activity, sleep, nutrition, smoking and substance abuse, family life, finances, internet use and spirituality were studied. Results: Fifty-nine percent of medical students reported a significant effect of lockdown on their physical activity. Only 5.8% people clearly followed or adhered to a routine during the pandemic. About 54.6% students have found that physical activity and exercise significantly reduced their anxiety. More than half of respondents reported increase in screen time, weight gain and poor sleep with 3.1% of students stating an increased use of sleeping pills to fall asleep Another 18.3% students had an increased worry regarding COVID19 based on the information they received on internet. No significant increase in substance uses and alcohol use or family conflicts among students post pandemic was noted. Conclusion: Our findings underscore that COVID-19 pandemic has led to undesired changes in health and lifestyle habits of medical students, which may, to some extent, be responsible for higher negative impact. Hence it is important for medical colleges to start awareness campaigns to tackle challenges for medical students physical and emotional well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research evaluated farmers’ decisions to adopt organic farming. It was first introduced by developed countries to minimize environmental impacts originated by intensive use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides to enhance production yield. Although, organic farming offers environmentally sound methodologies for crop production, but Asian farmers are reluctant to adopt organic farming. In this study, a survival analysis (SA) was employed to determine the reasons for and the time is taken by farmers to adopt organic agriculture. This research studied the farmers’ goals, agricultural policies, and attitude towards risk, as covariates in the survival analysis. A multiple criteria decisionmaking method based on the Analytic Hierarchy Process was used to evaluate the farmers’ goals. Data were collected from agricultural farms located in three districts in Punjab, Pakistan. A questionnaire was used to collect empirical evidence. This study reported that the farmers’ goals were crucial to their acceptance of organic farming; furthermore, young farmers and farmers with risk-inclined attitudes were more prone to adopting organic farming. The study also determined that change in policy and introduce special package for organic agriculture can encouraged the adoption of organic methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: COVID-19 has posed unique challenges for adolescents in different dimensions of their life including education, home and social life, mental and physical health. Whether the impact is positive or negative, its significance on the overall shaping of adolescents' lives cannot be overlooked. The aim of the present study was to explore impacts of the pandemic on the adolescents' everyday lives in Pakistan. Methods: Following ethical approval, this cross-sectional study was conducted through September to December, 2020 via an online survey on 842 adolescents with the mean age of 17.14 ± SD 1.48. Socio-demographic data and Epidemic Pandemic Impact Inventory-Adolescent Adaptation (EPII-A) was used to assess the multi-dimensional effects of the pandemic. Results: Among the 842 participants, 84% were girls. Education emerged as the most negatively affected Pandemic domain (41.6–64.3%). Most of the adolescents (62.0–65.8%) had reported changes in responsibilities at home including increased time spent in helping family members. Besides, increase in workload of participants and their parents was prominent (41.8% & 47.6%). Social activities were mostly halted for approximately half (41–51%) of the participants. Increased screen time, decreased physical activity and sedentary lifestyle were reported by 52.7%, 46.3% and 40.7% respectively. 22.2–62.4% of the adolescents had a direct experience with quarantine, while 15.7% experienced death of a close friend or relative. Positive changes in their lives were endorsed by 30.5–62.4% respondents. Being male and older adolescents had significant association with negative impact across most domains (p<0.05). Conclusions: Results have shown that COVID-19 exert significant multidimensional impacts on the physical, psycho-social, and home related domains of adolescents that are certainly more than what the previous researches has suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mungbean yellow mosaic virus (MYMV) is an important constraint in successful production of mungbean (Vigna radiata L.) in many countries, including Pakistan. The MYMV spreads by insect vector whitefly (Bemisia tabaci Gennadius). The use of resistant cultivars is the most effective management tactics for MYMV. Twenty mungbean varieties/lines were screened against insect vector of MYMV under field condition in the current study. Resistance levels for varieties/lines were assessed through visual scoring of typical disease symptoms. Furthermore, the impacts of two insecticides 'Imidacloprid' and 'Thiamethoxam' and two plant extracts, i.e., neem (Azadirachta indica), and Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) were tested on the suppression of whitefly. Field screening indicated that none of the tested varieties/lines proved immune/highly resistant, while significant variations were recorded among varieties/lines for resistance level. All varieties/lines were systemically infected with MYMV. The varieties 'AARI-2006' and 'Mung-14043' were considered as resistant to MYMV based on visual symptoms and the lowest vector population. These varieties were followed by 'NM-2006' and 'NL-31', which proved as moderately resistant to MYMV. All remaining varieties/lines were grouped as moderately to highly susceptible to MYMV based on visual symptoms' scoring. These results revealed that existing mungbean germplasm do not possess high resistance level MYMV. However, the lines showing higher resistance in the current study must be exploited in breeding programs for the development of resistant mungbean varieties/lines against MYMV. Imidacloprid proved as the most effective insecticide at all concentrations to manage whitefly population. Therefore, use of the varieties with higher resistance level and spraying Imidacloprid could lower the incidence of MYMV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pakistan is one of the growing nations, specifically in the field of Information and Communication Technology (ICT). During the last decade, an intense rise in the adaptation of ICT has been observed in all the major cities of Pakistan. This includes, but not limited to, e-commerce, mobile technology, computer communication networks, embedded systems, software engineering, etc. Due to the resource constraints, Pakistan is not the producer of any technology; however, it is a potential consumer of numerous technologies and their products. It therefore, attracts most of the producers around the globe to invest in the technology business in Pakistan. According to the Board of Investment (BOI) Pakistan, the country has received more than US$5.7 billion during the last decade as the foreign investment in IT and Telecommunication sectors only. Moreover, it has more than 140 million cellular subscribers, around 45 million 3G/4G subscribers, more than 3 million fixed local line subscribers and approximately 48 million broadband subscribers [1]. Likewise, Pakistan is also one of the biggest buyers of Consumer Electronics (CE). Very few of the local companies are producing CE products, however, a major share of the CE market has been captured by the international brands of China, Japan, Korea, USA, Germany, etc. In the light of the facts, it can be inferred that the application of ICT such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and Internet of Underwater Things (IoUT) in consumer electronics has the strong potential in shaping a new dimension of CE business in Pakistan. Moreover, the recent literature has strongly advocated for the scope of 5G IoT/IoUT. This is due to the fact that existing communication infrastructure will not be sufficient to handle modern day IoT/IoUT need. In this article, a comprehensive study on the scope of IoT/IoUT enabled consumer electronics business is presented. In addition, the rationale of 5G IoT/IoUT integration in the developing countries like Pakistan is discussed. Moreover, the threats and opportunities in the business of IoT/IoUT enabled CE devices are also been presented. Finally, this study submits the recommendations to establish IoT/IoUT enabled CE business in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psychological distress is a generic term which refers to "feeling of emotional strain" that affects our normal mental and physical functioning. The aim of this study is to investigate the psychological distress perceived by the Pakistani students living in quarantine and to determine risk and protective factors, including knowledge of COVD-19, among this population. It is a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted from February to May 2020. Students enrolled at different colleges and universities of Pakistan participated in this survey. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) is computed for comparing knowledge scores of participants having different levels of psychological distress. A total of 937 participants completed the survey questionnaire, with slightly more male respondents (60.6%) than female (39.4%). The average age of survey participants is 22.0 years (SD = 3.01), with majority (76.2%) belonging to urban areas. The mean COVID-19 knowledge score is 8.91 (SD = 1.69, range: 1-12), suggesting an overall 74.25% precision rate for this knowledge test for individual participant. The participants scored least knowledge regarding the disease transmission, showing a percentage correctness of only 40%. Majority of the participants (57.3%) are likely to be well, while others (42.7%) have shown symptoms of mental distress. The analysis reveals that participants with moderate mental distress (M = 8.81, SD = 2.37) and those with severe mental distress (M = 8.75, SD = 2.69) scored lower than participants who were likely to be well (M = 9.49, SD = 1.71). Our study concludes that a higher knowledge base regarding the disease will help to mitigate distress levels. Our study suggests that in order to deal with this pandemic effectively, the knowledge regarding COVID-19 should be properly conveyed to general public. It is need of the hour to address mental issues of the population aggressively along with providing awareness about COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the effect of vitamin D3 supplementation on HbA1c in individuals with pre-diabetes Study Design: Quasi experimental study. Place and Duration of Study: Study was executed in department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Army Medical College, Rawalpindi in collaboration with Chemical Pathology department, Army Medical College and Armed Forces Institute of Pathology (AFIP), Rawalpindi Pakistan, from Jan to Dec 2019. Methodology: One hundred and forty individuals with pre-diabetes and co-existing hypovitaminosis D3 were selected, with serum 25(OH) D (<50 nmol/L) and elevated glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) (5.7-6.4%). Individuals were randomly assigned to receive 2000000 IU of vitamin D3 (Vit D3; n=70) or placebo (n=70) one stat at the beginning of study and one after one month. The primary outcome was amelioration of HbA1c. Results of HbA1c and vitamin D3 were compared after completion of study with the initial values. Results: A considerable inverse association was found between vitamin D3 and HbA1c in individuals with prediabetes. Median with inter-quartile range of baseline serum 25(OH) D3 was 43 and 41 nmol/L in the Vitamin D3 and placebo group, respectively. Post treatment serum 25(OH) D3 was significantly increased to 54nmol/L (p<0.0001) in the Vitamin D3 group. HbA1c level was decreased in the vitamin D3 group. Conclusion: This study evaluated the correlation between vitamin D3 in individuals with pre-diabetes. A statistically significant improvement in Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) was observed in the patients selected in the pre-diabetic range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aims to ascertain the relevance of Carroll's four dimensions of corporate social responsibility (CSR), namely, economic, legal, ethical and discretionary in a dynamic regulatory context of a developing economy – Pakistan. Design/methodology/approach: This study has operationalized these dimensions as four categories of CSR disclosure index. This disclosure index measured the relevance of CSR dimensions by examining CSR disclosure practices of Pakistan Stock Exchange-100 index firms. Findings: The authors have found that the firms of Pakistan disclose more information pertaining to discretionary dimension of CSR than economic, legal and ethical dimensions. Interestingly, the authors have observed that after the enactment of state regulation, there is an increasing trend of the overall CSR disclosure level at a decreasing rate. Practical implications: For policymakers, these findings imply that firms tend to perceive law as a box-ticking exercise and refrain to involve in those CSR activities that can have both strategic and societal benefits over the long run. These finding imply for business managers that if they will not undertake CSR notion seriously then the policymakers will take statutory initiatives to curtail the greenwashing effect and these initiatives can lead to higher transaction costs. Originality/value: This study presents evidence about the relevance of Carroll's four dimensions of CSR in a developing economy. The evidence shows that the CSR disclosure in developing economy continues to take a largely philanthropic form thereby dominating other CSR dimensions namely ethical, legal and economic. These findings also confirm that CSR practices are context-dependent and these cannot be isolated from their unique social context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To determine the Knowledge, Attitude and Practices of interns, general dentists and specialist prosthodontists in providing Removable Partial denture (RPD) to Patients in dental schools of Karachi, Pakistan; to propose changes to be made in the undergraduate curriculum so that the newly graduating student and the practicing dentist can benefit. METHODOLOGY: A total of 573 subjects participated in this questionnaire, which evaluated the participant's attitude and knowledge of designing an RPD and communication with the dental laboratory. The questionnaire comprised of five questions about Practices, 2 about their attitude and 9 about the base-line knowledge of the RPD designing. The survey was conducted through a questionnaire on Google form. Statistical analyses of data were computed using SPSS version 21. Mean and standard deviations were calculated for continuous variables while frequencies and percentages were calculated for the categorical variables. Results: From 573 participants, 306 (53.40%) were dental interns, 210 (36.6%) general dentist, 30 (5.23%) specialists having 55 five year experience. The mean age of participants was 25.45 years. There was a female predominance in the study subject, (73%). Some 42% of the participants provided RPD services to patients 1-2 times a month. 51.3% responded that dentist should be responsible for designing an RPD. Only 14% (n=81) of the study participants were fully aware of the importance of surveying jaw casts before mouth preparation. CONCLUSION: Majority of the dentists had insufficient knowledge and inadequate attitudes and practices regarding RPD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stem end rot (SER) is a fungal disease complex that poses a major threat to the delivery of quality mangoes from Pakistan to export markets. The dynamics of this disease remain unclear but must be elucidated so that effectiveness of disease management can be improved. The present study sought to describe the infection process and delineate a disease cycle of SER under Pakistani growing conditions. Our study discovered three possible routes of infection that could lead to SER: 1) infection at bloom stage; 2) the pathogen may be endophytic within the twigs and branches; and 3) airborne spores of the pathogen invade the pedicels and xylem and then grow into the ripening fruit. Culturing of symptomatic samples from selected orchards revealed colonization by five fungal pathogens, of which Lasiodiplodia theobromae was most prevalent. A pathogenicity assay revealed that all five pathogens were pathogenic to mango fruit when inoculated artificially. The efficacy of fungicides - Cabrio Top®, Nativo®, Scholar®, Tecto®, Amistar®, and Sportak® at several concentrations was evaluated against SER pathogens in vitro and in vivo. Results indicated that Nativo®, and Cabrio Top®, at 250 µg/mL provided statistically significant suppression of mycelial growth and SER development as compared to other tested fungicides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Current experiment was conducted to screen out seven different cultivars of eggplant against eggplant fruit and shoot borer (Leucinodes orbonalis G.). The experiment was carried out at Entomological research area, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Pakistan during March 2018 to July 2018 as spring sown crop. The trial was carried out according to RCB design having seven treatments (varieties) and four replications. Data was recorded on three different dates (i.e. 10-06-2018, 25-06-2018 and 10-07-2018). Results showed that maximum mean percent shoot infestation was recorded on Eggplant F1 Chaya 704 (52.46 ± 2.92%) while minimum mean shoot infestation was observed in Eggplant Long Purple Sky 384 (10.59 ± .95%). Maximum mean fruit infestation was also recorded in Eggplant F1 Chaya 704 (55.99 ± 4.83%) while the lowest mean value was observed in Eggplant Black Boy 706 (13.13 ± 4.36%). Correlation studies showed that there was significant positive * correlation between shoot infestation and plant height (r= .260 ) and significant positive correlation among fruit infestation and length of fruit (r= .205). After grading of varieties, it was concluded that there was only Eggplant Black Boy 706 placed at resistant grade due to least fruit as well as shoot infestation. Eggplant Black Long US 3715 and Eggplant Rosa Bianca Organic was observed as tolerant varieties against the pest. It was concluded that afore-mentioned varieties contained genetical resistance against eggplant shoot and fruit borer. These varieties should be disseminated in agriculture sector as environmentally safe plant protection measure. Furthermore, superior traits of resistant plants should be genetically evaluated to improve other varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a correction notice for an article titled "Influence of natural and non-natural diets on the fitness and rearing of Pectinophora gossypiella Saunders" published in Scientific Reports. The correction addresses an incorrect affiliation for one of the authors, Montaser M. Hassan. The correct affiliations for Montaser M. Hassan are the Department of Entomology, Faculty of Basic and Applied Sciences, The University of Haripur, Haripur, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, and the Department of Biology, College of Science, Taif University, Taif, Saudi Arabia. The original article has been corrected. [Extracted from the article]

Five wheat varieties i.e., AASS, CHAKWAL, FARID, MIRAJ and GALAXY in Pakistan were campared to survey the red flour beetle population occurrence during one month period. Only sound grains were taken as medium of population growth for the red flour beetles. Study parameters included number of grains per unit weight, beetles population growth/survival percentage in relation to different wheat varieties and percent weight loss, if any in grains of these wheat varieties due to beetles feeding. Wheat varieties had significantly different number of grains per unit weight. Red flour beetles' population growth was checked in a 30 day time period. Beetles could not grow within the food medium of sound wheat grains of these varieties in this time span and most of these died. Survival percentage of beetles was measured in relation to different wheat varieties which did not vary significantly for these varieties. Within a given span of time percent weight loss due to beetle feeding in grains was nominal in all varieties and it also did not vary significantly between varieties. From these results it is concluded that red flour beetles being secondary stored grain insect pests were unable to multiply on sound grain wheat varieties and caused minimal weight loss in these varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypertension is a multifactorial chronic disease and a silent cause of high causalities around the globe. Both hyper and pre-hypertension affect all ages and professions, and are as common as flu infections by affecting 1 in every 5 persons. In order to determine frequency of hypertension and pre-hypertension among medical students and their association with various variable and fixed risk factors, this study was designed. The cross sectional study of 4 months was carried out on the students of Shalamar Medical and Dental College. Students were aged from 18-25 years and a sample of 100 students was enrolled by stratified random sampling after written consent. We recorded blood pressure at three different time points, one minute apart in sitting position after ten minutes of rest. The average of three measurements was considered as final reading. Data regarding related variables was entered and analysed using SPSS version 21. Out of 100 (43 males and 57 females), three students were hypertensive, 55 pre-hypertensive and 42 normotensive; among pre-hypertensive female students were more in number as compared to male students. Mean age was 21.6 years with increased frequency of pre hypertensive and hypertensive individuals in the first, second and final year class. A total of 64% pre-obese subjects were pre-hypertensive or hypertensive and 75% obese were also pre hypertensive or hypertensive. Frequency of intake of fast/junk food was higher among pre-hypertensive and hypertensive individual than normotensive and same among both genders. Median value of average sleep (hours) among pre-hypertensive subjects was lesser than of hypertensive subjects. Students expressed their concerns related to college timings and hectic routine and increased frequency of teaching sessions including assessments. Frequency of pre-hypertension was higher in the students especially in the first, second and final years of graduation (MBBS). Pre-hypertensive and hypertensive students were pre-obese or obese and had positive family history of hypertension, consumed fast/junk food in both genders. College timing and intensive routines were primary cause of irritation and aggression, which may result in hypertension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the impact of structured and effcient market factors such as fundamental analysis, transaction processing system, information processing system and risk management on Pakistan stock exchange's investor satisfaction. We used descriptive statistics, confrmatory factor analysis, and structural equation modeling technique to test the proposed model. Our ffndings reveal that all the components of the structured and effcient market (S&EM) positively impact the individual investor's satisfaction (IIS) level. However, the individual investor's education and trading experience signiffcantly moderate the impact of S&EM and IIS model. We suggest that provision of quality trading facilities with low cost guiding investors; ensure a friendly market environment which can protect the retail investor's interest. Further, we highlighted that the availability of quality information, transparent transaction process at low fees & commissions, unbiased brokerage services and strict compliance of SOPs could enhance the investor's level of satisfaction and their investment decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims and method To assess adolescents' perceptions of their psychiatric illness and the role of various demographic factors in a Pakistani setting. Adolescents with various psychiatric diagnoses were interviewed using a structured questionnaire including the Illness Perceptions Questionnaire-Revised (IPQ-R). Results Fifty-two adolescents with various psychiatric illnesses were interviewed; their mean age was 12.7 years and the majority (67%) were female. Males had significantly higher scores on timeline and emotional representation (P<0.05), suggesting strongly held beliefs about chronicity of their illness and anger and worry about their condition. Adolescents' own emotional state, stress, family problems and bad luck were endorsed by participants as some of the causal factors in their mental illness. Clinical implications Despite the importance of early intervention in psychiatric problems, engaging youth in the treatment process in Pakistan remains difficult. Better understanding of how adolescents perceive their psychiatric difficulties may play a significant role in developing culturally sensitive interventions and better utilisation of services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sleep problems are common in children and adolescents with up to 50% of children experience some sleep difficulties and up to 4% have a formal sleep disorder diagnosis1,2. In Pakistan there is a shortage of child psychiatrists and pediatric physicians, therefore it is important for the physicians in primary care and general psychiatry to befamiliarwith common sleepdisorders.This article provides an overview of common sleep disorders in children and adolescents. Moreover, many children do not get adequate amount of sleep, which now is known to cause behavioral and emotional problems3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article reports the results of a survey of 150 doctors working in teaching hospitals in Multan, Pakistan. The survey was undertaken to ascertain how often doctors use hospital libraries, their main reasons for using the hospital libraries, and the impact of information they received/gathered from the hospital libraries on patient care and clinical decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Keywords: Cash crop; Twig blight; Lasiodiplodia pseudotheobromae EN Cash crop Twig blight Lasiodiplodia pseudotheobromae 1031 1031 1 08/18/21 20210801 NES 210801 I Gossypium hirsutum i (upland cotton) is an important cash crop and considered as integral part to the economic development of Pakistan (Razzaq et al. [3]). In August-September 2018, severe twig and stem blight was observed in Multan and Bahawalpur districts of Punjab, Pakistan. [Extracted from the article]

A correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1007/s42161-021-00807-3 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of spinach leaf spot caused by I A. verrucaria i in Pakistan. Keywords: Leaf spot; Pathogenicity; Myrothecium verrucaria EN Leaf spot Pathogenicity Myrothecium verrucaria 715 715 1 05/06/21 20210501 NES 210501 A correction to this article is available online at https://doi.org/10.1007/s42161-021-00807-3. [Extracted from the article]

Keywords: Solanum tuberosum; Disease severity; Identification; Pathogenicity EN Solanum tuberosum Disease severity Identification Pathogenicity 687 687 1 05/06/21 20210501 NES 210501 Potato ( I Solanum tuberosum i L.) is one of the most consumed and fastest growing staple food crop of Pakistan. Potato cultivation is mainly focused in Punjab, where currently over 95% of the potato production originates (Abdul and Zahir [1]). [Extracted from the article]

Keywords: Solanum tuberosum; Disease severity; Sclerotia; Stem rot EN Solanum tuberosum Disease severity Sclerotia Stem rot 669 669 1 05/06/21 20210501 NES 210501 Potato ( I Solanum tuberosum i L.) is one of the most widely produced and consumed vegetable in many parts of Pakistan (Majeed and Muhammad [1]). To our knowledge, this is the first report of while mould disease on potato in Pakistan. [Extracted from the article]

During November 2017, leaf spot symptoms were observed in different date palm orchards. To our knowledge, this is the first report of leaf spot caused by I N. sphaerica i on date palm in Pakistan. [Extracted from the article]

In current era, the best treatment modality for partially or completely edentulous patients is dental implant prosthesis worldwide. Although replacing missing teeth with dental implants is believed as satisfactory experience by patients, the awareness and knowledge about dental implants vary between individuals as well as countries.The purpose of this study was to assess the patients' knowledge and awareness about dental implants. It was a questionnaire-based cross-sectional survey performed in Islamabad at Prosthodontics Department, Rawal Institute of Health Science, in which self-structured questionnaires were distributed among 400 outdoor patients. Questionnaire included patient age, gender, level of education, knowledge about different treatment options for missing teeth, awareness of dental implants as treatment option, positive and negative patient perception about dental implant and source of information. Only 38% (152) patients were aware of dental implants as treatment modality for missing teeth.Main reason given by patients not to avail dental implant as treatment option was cost (65.13%). Positive information among patients who were aware about implant option was high esthetic (50.67%) and high success rate (32.23%). Mainly dentists (44.08%) provided information about implant to patients. The association between patients' educational level and awareness about dental implant as treatment option for replacing missing teeth is statistically significant with the P-value = 0.01 The study concluded that majority of participants were not having knowledge regarding dental implants.Cost of dental implant is main hurdle for patients to choose implant as option. Reduced cost will facilitate patients with low socioeconomic status to choose dental implant as treatment option in developing countries like Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights from the article: Pathogenicity test was confirmed by inoculation of 10 carrot roots with 20 mL of a conidial suspension (10 SP 5 sp conidia/mL) using a glass sprayer. After three days, all inoculated carrots became infected and displayed the same symptoms as seen for naturally infected carrots, and fungus having morphological characters identical to I G. candidum i was re-isolated.

The authors discuss the condition of child psychiatry in Pakistan. It notes the Second Fellowship in Child Psychiatry by the College of Physicians and Surgeons which scores the realization of setting up scientific and modern mental health services for Pakistani children. It also highlights the medical organizations dedicated to child psychiatric research including the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and the International Association for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.

A light weight zone disc tiller drill was redesigned and developed employing Solid works and AutoCAD software's. For field performance evaluation of the machine, the experimental trials were conducted at Post Graduate Research Station, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan. An area of 2.5 ha (6.12 acres) was divided into two halves; one-half of the area was used for the conventional method of maize planting and the second half was used for maize planting by redeveloped zone disc tiller drill. It was observed that under the conventional method, extensive field preparation operations were performed, whereas no field preparation had been done for planting maize with a zone disc tiller drill. After harvesting the paddy crop, the zone disc tiller drill was passed through the standing stubble field and planted the maize seed in one pass. Crop planting results with zone disc tiller drill and conventional method under three levels of irrigation and three levels of fertilizer levels were compared for their impact on the crop parameters including emergence rate index, root length, root shoot ratio, shoot length, root fresh weight, root dry weight, shoot fresh weight, and shoot dry weight. All the data were statistically analyzed and found that the emergence rate index by using a zone disc tiller drill was 1.43 times greater than that under conventional maize planting. The emergence rate index at irrigation level I3 (after 4 days) was 1.23 times greater than that at I2 (after 6 days) and 1.40 times greater than that at I1 (after 8 days). The value of the emergence rate index at fertilizer level F3 (148.2 kg ha-1) was 1.61 times greater than that at F2 (123.3 kg ha-1) and 3.32 times greater than that at F1 (98.8 kg ha-1). Plant shoot dry weight by using a zone disc tiller drill was 1.68 times greater than that observed under the conventional maize planting method. It was concluded from the cost analysis that the cost of sowing maize with a zone disc tiller drill on an area of one hectare was less as compared to the conventional method (tillage + sowing). The proposed study showed that the newly designed machine could sow maize seed in rice stubble field within an acceptable cost, saves time, improve soil physical parameters, and crop parameters for better production of maize. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]