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The objective of the research was to identify teacher's readiness towards the acceptance of technology assessment model in e-teaching and identification of the problems faced by the teachers while switching to e-teaching. The nature of the study was qualitative. Data was collected from 04 public sector universities. Purposive sampling technique was used to select the group of the study. Sample consisted of the teachers (male and female) teaching in the teacher training institutes of southern Punjab (Pakistan). 20 teachers from various universities were selected for the interview. Research tool used for the data collection of the study was structure interview. The interview for the teachers consisted of eight questions. The results of the study stated that the teachers faced problem while e-teaching during pandemic related to a number of factors such as social influence, perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness. The teachers may work to integrate e-teaching with conventional learning and be proficient in web-based education platforms.

The study was conducted in three phases that is testing, using multimedia and observation of the controlled group. Major objective of the research were to assess the implications of software development design on learners and to identify effects of interactive multimedia environment on learning patterns of learners' at graduate level. The researchers followed experimental design of research and selected a group of six learners from social science departments through purposive sampling technique. Researchers observed and interviewed the sampled learners who used LMS software. The analysis was made to find out results of patterns of multimedia interactions. It was found that in controlled environmental situations, the learners effectively learned by using interactive multimedia. Learners' capacity of learning was developed when they were given freedom to use variety of learning strategies. These learning strategies were based on the ability and cognition of individual learner. It was also found that the interface design also facilitated exploration as well as, provided guidance to make choices. Learners used concept maps as an important tool which helped them in their structured learning. The research concluded that capabilities of the learners may be evoked through nodes, internal motivation and use of innovative learning techniques.

Background: Access to safe drinking water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities is crucial for health and human rights, impacting nutrition and weight. Methods: Multiple Indicators Cluster Survey (MICS) 2017– 18 has been used in this study to examine the association between WASH and underweight, alongside other factors. Analysis included descriptive statistics, association tests, logistic regression, and population-attributable fractions (PAF). Results: According to results child were 1.8, 1.1 and 1.04 times less likely to be underweight if they had access to improved source of drinking water, improved sanitation and hygiene facilities respectively. The likelihood of child being underweight reduces by 1.4, 1.89, 2.01 and 2.55 times if the household wealth status increases from poorest to second, middle, fourth and richest wealth quintiles, respectively. As the mothers' education level increases from no schooling to primary, middle, secondary, and higher level, the possibility of child being underweight reduces by 1.22, 1.24, 1.60 and 2.01 times, respectively. Moreover, the likelihood of a child being underweight decreases as the education level of the household head improves. If maternal age is less than 20 or more than 35 years the likelihood of the child being underweight is increased by 1.074 and 1.121 times, respectively. A child is 1.1 times more likely to be underweight if birth spacing is less than 2 years. A child's risk of being underweight decreases by 1.1 times if they have not experienced diarrhea. A child who has never been breastfed has 1.3 times higher risk of being underweight. The results of Population Attributable Fraction (PAF) indicate that holding the other factors constant, approximately 36.46% burden of underweight was preventable by access to improved drinking water, sanitation, and hygiene practices. Conclusion: Comprehensive strategy is needed that focuses on improving access to safe drinking water, sanitation infrastructure, and hygiene behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gujranwala, a vibrant city in Pakistan, with a high population and rapid urbanization, Gujranwala faces various challenges that necessitate comprehensive planning and management. This article aims to shed light on the regional planning initiatives undertaken in Gujranwala, highlighting the key strategies, achievements, and future prospects. The basic aim of the study is to evaluate the prospects of the Regional Plan for District Gujranwala. And to put forth an integrated land use plan and regional plan that takes into account the demands of the local populace concerning housing, health, education, religion, parks, recreation, sports, industry, commerce, trade services, agriculture, and other land uses. The research design employed a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative techniques. The study utilized surveys, interviews, observation, and secondary data analysis to gather comprehensive information about regional planning in Gujranwala. The study on Gujranwala's regional planning reveals several key findings. Gujranwala, initially a rapidly growing industrial city, faced challenges due to its unprecedented expansion. In conclusion, the research underscores the need for a holistic and adaptive approach to regional planning in Gujranwala, considering the city's dynamic growth, economic significance, and environmental concerns. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers, urban planners, and local authorities to formulate and implement effective strategies for the sustainable development of Gujranwala. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The adoption of sustainable agricultural practices at the farm level is essential for lowering greenhouse gas emissions and creating sustainable food systems. This study explored the nexus of women’s empowerment in agriculture and the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices in Pakistan. A face-to-face survey using multistage simple random and purposive sampling techniques was used to collect the data from 384 Pakistani women farmers. A partial least-squares structural equation model was used to analyze the data. The findings indicated that empowering women in agricultural asset control (β = 0.38, p < 0.01) positively influences the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices on farms. Similarly, women’s empowerment in decision-making (β = 0.41, p < 0.01) also significantly affects the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices. Moreover, women’s empowerment in legal rights (β = 0.14, p < 0.01), productivity and skills (β = 0.15, p < 0.01), and information and communication technology (β = 0.19, p = 0.02) significantly increases farm-level adoption of sustainable agricultural practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The higher education (HE) landscape in Pakistan has undergone substantial growth, marked by the establishment of numerous universities and a growing student population. However, this expansion has brought forth a diverse array of challenges that necessitate effective leadership practices to unlock the sector's full potential. This article comprehensively explores the multifaceted challenges confronted by leaders within Pakistan's HE system and presents a strategic roadmap for their resolution. Through a rigorous analysis of the literature, the study identifies challenges, including bureaucratic constraints, financial limitations, governance issues, faculty empowerment, quality assurance, political interference, technology integration, brain drain, gender inequality, and research funding. By addressing these challenges, the study proposes a series of strategic pathways that capitalize on established research and expertise. This study aims to contribute to the discourse on higher education leadership and advocates for transformative approaches that foster innovation, excellence, and progress within Pakistan's HE landscape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: The increase in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) across countries has seriously impacted the effective management of infectious diseases, with subsequent impact on morbidity, mortality and costs. This includes Pakistan. Antimicrobial surveillance activities should be mandatory to continually assess the extent of multidrug-resistant bacteria and the implications for future empiric prescribing. The objective of this retrospective observational study was to monitor the susceptibility pattern of microbes in Pakistan. Materials and Methods: Clinical samples from seven laboratories in Punjab, Pakistan were collected between January 2018 and April 2019, with Punjab being the most populous province in Pakistan. The isolates were identified and their antimicrobial susceptibility was tested using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion assay and micro broth dilution methods. The antibiotics assessed were those typically prescribed in Pakistan. Results: In total, 2523 bacterial cultural reports were studied. The most frequently isolated pathogens were Staphylococcus aureus (866, 34.3%), followed by Escherichia coli (814, 32.2%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (454, 18.0%) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (269, 10.7%). Most pathogens were isolated from pus (1464, 58.0%), followed by urine (718, 28.5%), blood (164, 6.5%) and sputum (81, 3.2%). Conclusions: The findings suggest that current antimicrobial options are severally restricted in Pakistan due to the emergence of multidrug-resistant pathogens. This calls for urgent actions including initiating antimicrobial stewardship programs to enhance prudent prescribing of antibiotics. This includes agreeing on appropriate empiric therapy as part of agreed guidelines, in line with the WHO EML and AWaRe book, whilst awaiting culture reports. This is alongside other measures to reduce inappropriate antimicrobial prescribing and reverse the threat of rising AMR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indian gerbil (Tatera indica) belongs to family Muridae, is considered an important agricultural pest and causes damage to the crops in Pakistan including Pothwar. Information about the diet of the rodents is prerequisite for the better management of pest species. Previous studies conducted on the diet of Indian gerbil were only based on field observations. This study provides information on the diet analysis of Indian gerbil through stomach contents. Samples were collected from different localities of Pothwar during different seasons. Stomachs were separated during autopsy. Slides from stomach contents were prepared and were compared with reference slides. Relative frequency of every food item observed in the stomach was calculated as percentages. The results showed that Indian gerbil predominately consumed plant matter in its diet (74.5%) along with animal matter (25.5%). Among plant matter, Triticum aestivum (wheat) was the major consumed item followed by Brassica campestris (mustard) and Arachis hypogaea (peanut). Sorghum bicolor (millet) and Vigna radiata (mong bean) was also consumed in small proportions. Pearson chi-square was used to calculate the significance difference among every food item and among seasons. Significant difference (p<0.05) was observed among consumption of different food items and among different seasons. Non-significant difference (p>0.05) was calculated between consumption of different food items in male and female rats. It is concluded that Indian gerbil damaged the cash crops of Pothwar. Therefore, preventive measures should be taken as part of integrated pest control program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Globally, second language (L2) education aims to empower the learners with skills and motivation necessary for effective communication. The current study investigated the association between ten positive emotions and the Willingness to Communicate (WTC) in L2. The emotions studied were joy, gratitude, interest, serenity, amusement, hope, pride, awe, inspiration, and love. While previous research conducted on this topic was largely confined to the Western context, this study incorporated the Pakistani context as well to establish a more comprehensive picture. Three hundred (300) undergraduate and postgraduate students enrolled in higher education institutions (HEIs) in Islamabad, Pakistan took part in the research. The findings revealed that gratitude, pride, hope, inspiration, and amusement tend to impact students' WTC in L2. The results offer many practical insights for policymakers, teachers, and higher education students. HEIs may develop/conduct a variety of policies, strategies, initiatives, trainings, and workshops to address L2 communication based on the findings of this research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ground validation of satellite-based precipitation products (SPPs) is very important for their hydroclimatic application. This study evaluated the performance assessment of four soil moisture-based SPPs (SM2Rain, SM2Rain- ASCAT, SM2Rain-CCI, and GPM-SM2Rain). All data of SPPs were compared with 64 weather stations in Pakistan from January 2005 to December 2020. All SPPs estimations were evaluated on daily, monthly, seasonal, and yearly scales, over the whole spatial domain, and at point-to-pixel scale. Widely used evaluation indices (root mean square error (RMSE), correlation coefficient (CC), bias, and relative bias (rBias)) along with categorical indices (false alarm ratio (FAR), probability of detection (POD), success ratio (SR), and critical success index (CSI) were evaluated for performance analysis. The results of our study signposted that: (1) On a monthly scale, all SPPs estimations were in better agreement with gauge estimations as compared to daily scales. Moreover, SM2Rain and GPM-SM2Rain products accurately traced the spatio-temporal variability with CC >0.7 and rBIAS within the acceptable range (±10) of the whole country. (2) On a seasonal scale (spring, summer, winter, and autumn), GPM-SM2Rain performed more satisfactorily as compared to all other SPPs. (3) All SPPs performed better at capturing light precipitation events, as indicated by the Probability Density Function (PDF); however, in the summer season, all SPPs displayed considerable over/underestimates with respect to PDF (%). Moreover, GPM-SM2RAIN beat all other SPPs in terms of probability of detection. Consequently, we suggest the daily and monthly use of GPM-SM2Rain and SM2Rain for hydro climate applications in a semi-arid climate zone (Pakistan). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was conducted at Institute of Soil and Environmental Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan to monitor the impact assessment of tillage systems on soil health indicators by integrating organic and inorganic resources to sustain wheat production in arid and semi-arid conditions i.e. high temperature and low rainfall. The field experiment was conducted in 2019-20 and carried out in alkaline soil (pH 8.2) with low organic matter (0.45%) to grow wheat after rice and treatments were arranged in randomized complete block design. Farmyard manure (FYM 20.5 Mg/ha), rice crop residues application (CRA 100%) and chemical fertilizers (CF) N-P-K 100-80-60 kg/ha, respectively were used under conventional and conservation tillage systems. During this research different growth and yield parameters were noted and evaluated the level of N, P, K and organic matter contents from soil and plant at the harvest. The results indicated that the combined application of FYM and CRA with CF improved the chlorophyll contents (20% in conventional tillage and 39% in conservation tillage) which helped in nutrient translocation (N, P, K) and increased growth, biological and grain yield by improving soil organic carbon (SOC) and organic matter contents in soil. Growth parameter i.e. germination percentage upto 64%, plant height 27% and spike length upto 35% were increased by T7. The conservation tillage method was the best where we used T7 i.e. CF + 25% FYM + 50% CRA, and CF + 50% FYM + 25% CRA by conserving moisture and built OM (0.90%), soil organic carbon (0.49%) and mineral nutrition in soil as well as in wheat leaves. It is concluded that the integrated use of organic and inorganic resources are helpful for sustainable wheat production by enhancing fertilizer use efficiency (FUE) to improve soil health especially in arid to semi-arid climate conditions in alkaline soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly influenced antimicrobial use in hospitals, raising concerns regarding increased antimicrobial resistance (AMR) through their overuse. The objective of this study was to assess patterns of antimicrobial prescribing during the current COVID-19 pandemic among hospitals in Pakistan, including the prevalence of COVID-19. A point prevalence survey (PPS) was performed among 11 different hospitals from November 2020 to January 2021. The study included all hospitalized patients receiving an antibiotic on the day of the PPS. The Global-PPS web-based application was used for data entry and analysis. Out of 1024 hospitalized patients, 662 (64.64%) received antimicrobials. The top three most common indications for antimicrobial use were pneumonia (13.3%), central nervous system infections (10.4%) and gastrointestinal indications (10.4%). Ceftriaxone (26.6%), metronidazole (9.7%) and vancomycin (7.9%) were the top three most commonly prescribed antimicrobials among surveyed patients, with the majority of antibiotics administered empirically (97.9%). Most antimicrobials for surgical prophylaxis were given for more than one day, which is a concern. Overall, a high percentage of antimicrobial use, including broad-spectrums, was seen among the different hospitals in Pakistan during the current COVID-19 pandemic. Multifaceted interventions are needed to enhance rational antimicrobial prescribing including limiting their prescribing post-operatively for surgical prophylaxis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transport can significantly contribute to independent and healthy ageing, but in Pakistan—as in various other countries across the globe—many older adults are dependent on others. Age-sensitive transport environments are crucial for generating positive experiences among older adults. Notably, psychosocial experiences significantly impact public transport use. Thus, a thorough understanding of these psychological influences on public transport accessibility can encourage walkability and independent mobility. In the present research, we combine different data into a mixed-method study to investigate the psychosocial barriers to public transport use by older adults for daily travel in Lahore, Pakistan. The data include a questionnaire survey (319 older adults), semi-structured interviews (11 older adults), structured interviews with four experts and an analysis of relevant national-, provincial-, and district-level strategies and transport plans. The findings show how poorly perceived social norms, negative emotional responses, and perceived difficulty are significant barriers to using public transport services among older adults. Moreover, the existing transport plans and documents do not favour and cater to such psychosocial issues. Several strategic interventions that could promote walkability and public transport use are suggested. It includes activating social norms, raising awareness and information, providing social support, improving walking infrastructure and public transport services, pricing mechanisms, and offering specialised services. These initiatives, however, necessitate coordination among government authorities at the national, provincial, and district levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main purpose of the study was to determine the suitable selection method for genetic improvement in chickpea. The current investigation was conducted at the research area of the Arid Zone Research Institute, Bhakkar, Punjab, Pakistan. Twelve chickpea genotypes were sown in RCBD following three replicates. Data regarding primary & secondary per plant, days for maturity, plant height as well as potential yield were recorded. The measured data were analyzed to principal component analysis (PCA), correlation, and path coefficient analysis. Analysis of variants revealed good variation among the accessions for the data recorded traits. Principal coefficient analysis differentiates all the traits into six PCs. Two components expressed more than one Eigenvalue which collectively contributed 80.12% towards the genetic variation. High positive loadings were expressed by the secondary branches per plant and pods per plant in all components. Path analysis revealed that secondary branches/plants expressed the highest direct positive effect (0.872) grain yield followed by the pods per plant (0.623). Analysis of correlation coefficient also confirmed the highest significant contribution of secondary branches per plant (91.57%) followed by pods (78.12%) and each plant's primary branches (64%). It was proved from the current experiment that Plants with secondary branches as well as pods may be focused on while assessing meaningful selection criteria for genetic improvement in chickpea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The validity of two reanalysis (ERA5 and MEERA2) and seven satellite-based (CHIRPS, IMERG, PERSIANN-CCS, PERSIANN-CDR, PERSIANN-PDIR, PERSIANN, and TRMM) precipitation products was assessed in relation to the observations of in situ weather stations installed in different topographical and climatic regions of Pakistan. From 2010 to 2018, all precipitation products were evaluated on daily, monthly, seasonal, and annual bases at a point-to-pixel scale and over the entire spatial domain. The accuracy of the products was evaluated using commonly used evaluation and categorical indices, including Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), Correlation Coefficient (CC), Bias, Relative Bias (rBias), Critical Success Index (CSI), Success Ratio (SR) Probability of Detection (POD), and False Alarm Ratio (FAR). The results show that: (1) Over the entire country, the spatio-temporal distribution of observed precipitation could be represented by IMERG and TRMM products. (2) All products (reanalysis and SPPs) demonstrated good agreement with the reference data at the monthly scale compared to the daily data (CC > 0.7 at monthly scale). (3) All other products were outperformed by IMERG and TRMM in terms of their capacity to detect precipitation events throughout the year, regardless of the season (i.e., winter, spring, summer, and autumn). Furthermore, both products (IMERG and TRMM) consistently depicted the incidence of precipitation events across Pakistan's various topography and climatic regimes. (4) Generally, CHIRPS and ERA5 products showed moderate performances in the plan areas. PERSIANN, PERSIANN-CCS, PDIR, PERSIANN-CDR, and MEERA2 products were uncertain to detect the occurrence and precipitation over the higher intensities and altitudes. Considering the finding of this assessment, we recommend the use of daily and monthly estimates of the IMERG product for hydro climatic studies in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The population is increasing rapidly globally, and urban expansion of the cities has become an extensive trend in developing nations. Urban expansion patterns, such as transportation structure and road networks, affect transportation planning. This research was conducted on a mega project in Lahore city of Pakistan, i.e., the Lahore Ring Road (LRR) project. Limited research focused on the beneficiary assessment of the road project, and this research was carried out to fill this research gap. This research aims to evaluate the beneficiary assessment of DHA Phase 8 and Halloki Settlement along the Lahore Ring Road. The simple Random Sampling technique was used to conduct the household survey in the study area. This study concluded that most of the residents did not modify their houses nor increase the built-up area and height after the introduction of the project. This study inferred that the rental potential was high at some locations and low at old existing settlements. This research further concluded that community participation was ignored, and public facilities were not improved in the study area. But a project of LRR was very much beneficial and alive for the residents of Lahore city. Community participation should be enhanced in such types of megaprojects, and allied facilities in the nearby community should be upgraded. This research will be helpful for policymakers, urban planners, transportation planners, development authorities, and other stakeholders in planning future road projects in the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study on antioxidant potential of cheddar cheese utilizing milk from cow and buffalo sources during ripening was conducted in 2019-20 at Institute of Food science and Nutrition, University of Sargodha, Pakistan. The cheese samples were placed at the controlled atmosphere (4°C) for ripening and were ripened for 3, 6 and 9 months. This research was conducted to evaluate antioxidant ability of cheddar cheese during ripening. Freeze dried water (WSE) and ethanol soluble fractions (ESE) of cheddar (cow and buffalo) were prepared and monitored for their antioxidant activities during ripening. Total antioxidant activity (TAA) of soluble fractions (WSE and ESE) was determined. Higher TAA was found in WSE (59.900 ± 1.59 μg/g trolox equivalent) and higher reducing power was observed in ESE (27.734 ± 5.76 μg/g) of buffalo milk cheddar cheese after 9 months of ripening. Increased values were found for total phenolic content (TPC) in freeze dried WSE (69.572 ± 5.88 μg/g gallic acid equivalent) and for DPPH in freeze-dried ESE (1436.1 ± 4.95 μmol/ml trolox equivalent) of cow milk cheddar cheese after 9 months of ripening. In short, it (cheddar cheese) can be utilized in manufacturing of functional foods due to its increased antioxidant potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a threat to public health. In 2015, the World Health Organization (WHO) introduced a global action plan to tackle AMR in the World Health Assembly. Pakistan's national action plan (NAP) for AMR was released in May 2017 by the Ministry of National Health Services. Based on the NAP, strategies have been initiated on a national and provincial scale in Pakistan. This narrative review of the five components of the Pakistan NAP has been undertaken to discuss some of the challenges in implementation of the NAP for AMR in Pakistan including different opinions and views of key stakeholders, combined with suggestions on potential ways to reduce the burden of the AMR. Going forward, healthcare authorities should focus on screening and monitoring of all the objectives of the NAP by establishing proper policies as well as promoting antimicrobial stewardship interventions and Infection prevention and control (IPC) practices. Overall, the comprehensive strengthening of the healthcare system is required to adequately implement the NAP, tackle continued inappropriate antimicrobial use and high AMR rates in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study analyzes the behavior of household saving in Punjab province by using Họusehọld Integrated Economic Survey (HIES) conducted in 2015-16 by the Pakistan Bauru of Statistic (PBS). A sample of 4372 họusehọld selected for Punjab in which 2970 from urban and 1402 from rural Punjab. The study estimated three models separately for Punjab, Urban Punjab, and Rural Punjab. The ordinary least square (OLS) technique used to determine the relationship between variables. The result shows a positive relationship between họusehọld saving and họusehọld income and age. The Họusehọld consumption negative related to saving and results are statistically significant at 5 percent level. The gender of họusehọld revealed a positive relationship with saving in urban Punjab and negative in Punjab rural but it is not statistically significant. The overall result of the study revealed that họusehọld income, and age of head is main determinant of saving behavior in Punjab. Saving trend in rural area is more as compared to urban area in Punjab province. The study suggests that government should reduce fiscal deficits in the period of economic growth and increase saving for investment. The govt. should encourage the saving scheme in banks and micro finance institutions and reduce non development expenditure for productive purpose because the rate of growth depends on the level of national saving and the productivity of capital investment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was carried out to analyze the phytochemical profile of Euphorbia prostrata Aiton through GC-MS and identification of possible antifungal, antibacterial and other pesticidal compounds through literature survey. Whole plant material of the weed was collected from Lahore, Pakistan and shade dried followed by two-week extraction in ethyl acetate. The filtrates were analyzed by GC-MS that showed the presence of 19 compounds. The major compound in the extract was 9,19-cyclolanost-24-en-3-ol, (3β)- (24.62%) followed by 9,19-cyclolanostan-3-ol, 24-methylene-, (3β)- (19.51%) and γ-sitosterol (12.51%). Other compounds were phytol (8.11%), n-hexadecanoic acid (6.15%), 9,12,15-octadecatrienoic acid, (Z,Z,Z)- (4.90%), neophytadiene (4.88%), cyclohexane, 1,3,5-triphenyl- (3.71%), hexadecanoic acid, ethyl ester (3.04%), phenol, 2,2'-methylenebis[6-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-4-methyl- (2.42%), octadecanoic acid, ethyl ester (2.24%), octacosane (2.11%), 1-heptacosanol (1.71%), stigmasta-5,24(28)-dien-3-ol, (3β,24Z)- (1.71%), 9,12,15-octadecatrienoic acid, ethyl ester, (Z,Z,Z)- (1.29%), oxirane, hexadecyl- (1.21), 9,12- octadecadienoic acid (Z,Z)- (1.05%), Z-8-methyl-9-tetradecenoic acid (1.01%), and 9-octadecyne (0.76%). Literature survey revealed that eight compounds possess antibacterial, antifungal, nematicidal and/or insecticidal properties. Most of the pesticidal compounds were antibacterial in nature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This molecular epidemiological study was designed to determine the antimalarial drug resistance pattern, and the genetic diversity of malaria isolates collected from a war-altered Federally Administered Tribal Area (FATA), in Pakistan. Clinical isolates were collected from Bajaur, Mohmand, Khyber, Orakzai and Kurram agencies of FATA region between May 2017 and May 2018, and they underwent DNA extraction and amplification. The investigation of gene polymorphisms in drug resistance genes (dhfr, dhps, crt, and mdr1) of Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax was carried out by pyrosequencing and Sanger sequencing, respectively. Out of 679 PCR-confirmed malaria samples, 523 (77%) were P. vivax, 121 (18%) P. falciparum, and 35 (5%) had mixed-species infections. All P. falciparum isolates had pfdhfr double mutants (C59R+S108N), while pfdhfr/pfdhps triple mutants (C59R+S108N+A437G) were detected in 11.5% of the samples. About 97.4% of P. falciparum isolates contained pfcrt K76T mutation, while pfmdr1 N86Y and Y184F mutations were present in 18.2% and 10.2% of the samples. P. vivax pvdhfr S58R mutation was present in 24.9% of isolates and the S117N mutation in 36.2%, while no mutation in the pvdhps gene was found. Pvmdr1 F1076L mutation was found in nearly all samples, as it was observed in 98.9% of isolates. No significant anti-folate and chloroquine resistance was observed in P. vivax; however, mutations associated with antifolate-resistance were found, and the chloroquine-resistant gene has been observed in 100% of P. falciparum isolates. Chloroquine and sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine resistance were found to be high in P. falciparum and low in P. vivax. Chloroquine could still be used for P. vivax infection but need to be tested in vivo, whereas a replacement of the artemisinin combination therapy for P. falciparum appears to be justified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Indian bush rat, Golunda ellioti, is indigenous to the Indo-Pak subcontinent. Food habits of this bush rat were investigated using its stomach and fecal contents. Trapping was conducted every month from November 2013 to February 2016. This over 28 months generated a total of 2520 trapping nights. Sample slides from 82 stomach and 10 fecal samples were compared with the reference slides. Field observations along with feeding the Indian bush rat in captivity revealed that it preferably fed on 27 species of grasses with Digitaria sanguinalis [frequency of occurrence (FO) = 13.5%] being the most abundant one followed by Pennisetum orientale (FO = 8.5%). However, the Berger-Parker index revealed that D. sanguinalis (d = 0.148) was followed by Triticum aestivum (d = 0.145). Along with that, they also consumed tillers and seeds of wheat, gram seeds and young leaves of mustard. Considering the climatic changes, its success in adapting to the arid regions and dependence on grasses for food and cover may favor this species in future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A two-year field study was accomplished at College of Agriculture experimental site, Sargodha in spring seasons of 2018 and 2019 to evaluate the performance of various herbicides to combat weeds in soybean. The study consisted of 8 herbicide treatments including two pre-emergence herbicides (pendimethalin at 489.1 g a.i. ha-1, pendimethalin + S-metolachlor at 731.1 g a.i. ha-1) which were applied immediately after sowing and six post-emergence herbicides (oxyfluorfen at 237.1 g a.i. ha-1, metribuzin at 518.7 g a.i. ha-1, quizalofop-p-ethyl at 148.2 g a.i. ha-1, acetochlor at 741 g a.i. ha-1, halosulfuron at 37 g a.i. ha-1and topramezone at 21.5 g a.i. ha-1) which were used 25 days after sowing. In contrast to control, all herbicides have shown significant decline in weed density (up to 94%) and dry weight (up to 88%); and caused significant increases in plant height (up to 85%), pod bearing branches (up to 77%), number of pods per plant (up to 83%), 100-seed weight (up to 37%) and seed yield (up to 160%) of soybean. Among herbicides, topramezone at 21.5 g a.i ha-1 gave significantly the highest (1234 and 1272 kg ha-1 in years 2018 and 2019) seed yield of soybean and HEIs (1.28 and 1.03 in year 2018 and 2019, respectively). However, oxyfluorfen at 237.1 g a.i. ha-1, pendimethalin + S-metolachlor at 731.1 g a.i. ha-1, pendimethalin at 489.1 g a.i. ha-1, quizalofop-p-ethyl at 148.2 g a.i. ha-1 followed it. The regression analysis depicted a significant negative moderate relationship of soybean seed yield with weed dry weight (R2 = 0.7074). However, pods per plant was proved to be the main yield component responsible for higher yield of soybean as it had significant positive relationship (R2 = 0.7012) with seed yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to industrialization, increasing solid waste is affecting environmental integrity globally. Reverse logistics (RL) has become a significant tool to deal with environmental degradation issues, and it is being implemented in developed countries. However, RL is at the infancy stage in developing countries especially in Pakistan due to different obstacles. This study aims to identify and analyzes the interrelationship between barriers affecting RL implementation in Pakistani manufacturing industry using an integrated methodology of Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) and MICMAC approach. Results of ISM and MICMAC identified organizational, financial, and technological barriers as dependent barriers. However, lack of government policy incentives, lack of responsiveness about RL, lack of enforceable laws on product return, changing in regulations due to political changes, lack of environmental law awareness and lack of corporate social responsibility emerged out as top-ranked barriers driving other barriers that need to be addressed. An inter-relationship based structural model will be helpful for supply chain and RL professional in understanding major obstacles to RL implementation and develop a strategy to promote RL in the manufacturing industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Snow Leopard (Panthera uncia) is native to mountain ranges of Central and South Asia, where it occurs from 3,000–4500 m elevation. The species is enlisted as “Endangered” by IUCN and its populations are reportedly declining. In the current study, we compared the past and current distribution ranges of the species using spatial analysis. We used Quantum Geographical Information System (QGIS) software to reconstruct and quantify its past distribution range and compare with its current one. Snow leopard was found more widely distributed in the past having a distribution range of approximately 10.47 million km2 against the current 3.20 million km2. Range contraction of the species approximates 69%. A total of 719 terrestrial protected areas of Asia (out of total 7209) had this species in the past whereas at current, only 311 protected areas support this species. The results emphasize escalating conservation efforts to save its remaining distribution range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Power outage owing to shortage of power generation, transmission losses, lack of planning and inappropriate policies has led to escalate the energy crisis in Pakistan. The reason for selecting Pakistan is to facilitate its 220 million population and to attract the international investors to take benefit by integrating power generation units into National Grid of Pakistan (NGOP). Domestic, Industrial, health and education sectors are badly affected due to this power crisis. Instead of remedial measures and providing incentives to the investors in power sector, the government of Pakistan (GOP) has remained unable to overcome the dilemma in power sector due to improper check and balance. The failures in completion of hydropower dams and generating electricity by fossil fuels has resulted in increased power generation cost and environmental hazards. Therefore, some suitable solutions are compulsory for meeting the escalating power demands adequately. The incorporation of renewable energy units and stopping electricity theft can be the most explicit choice for meeting aforementioned problems. This paper explores the vast potential of Pakistan with respect to energy production by means of solar and wind power units. Moreover, most appropriate sites for incorporating power generation units are also critically reviewed. The paper also proposes the short-term, mid-term and long-term effective solutions along various practical proposals for overcoming the existing power crisis in Pakistan. • Severe energy crisis is observed in Pakistan due to which 220 million population and various investors are effective badly. • Global trend is to switch from fossil fuels to renewable energy for healthier environment. • This paper conducts a comprehensive analysis of the already existed renewable energy sources. • Authors have proposed various solutions to enhance the productivity of already existed resources. • Long term, mid-term and short terms solutions have been proposed to overcome the energy crisis in developing countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Southeast Asian species Mus (Mus) cookii Ryley 1914 has been previously reported from southern China, Nepal, northeastern and peninsular India, Myanmar, north and central Thailand and Vietnam. A cytochrome b (Cytb) gene analysis revealed the presence of M. cookii which significantly expands the known western range of this species. However, it is unclear whether the M. cookii population in the Pothwar region represents a historical or recent westward range expansion or, on the contrary, a relictual source population that further experienced an historic eastward range expansion into Southeast Asia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) is a multipurpose crop of dry land yielding very high quality of edible oil. Present study was aimed to investigate the genetic diversity and population structure of 131 safflower accessions originating from 28 different countries using 13 iPBS-retrotransposon markers. A total of 295 iPBS bands were observed among which 275 (93.22%) were found polymorphic. Mean Polymorphism information content (0.48) and diversity parameters including mean effective number of alleles (1.33), mean Shannon’s information index (0.33), overall gene diversity (0.19), Fstatistic (0.21), and inbreeding coefficient (1.00) reflected the presence of sufficient amount of genetic diversity in the studied plant materials. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) showed that more than 40% of genetic variation was derived from populations. Model-based structure, principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) and unweighted pair-group method with arithmetic means (UPGMA) algorithms clustered the 131 safflower accessions into four main populations A, B, C, D and an unclassified population, with no meaningful geographical origin. Most diverse accessions originated from Asian countries including Afghanistan, Pakistan, China, Turkey, and India. Four accessions, Turkey3, Afghanistan4, Afghanistan2, and Pakistan24 were found most genetically distant and might be recommended as a candidate parents for breeding purposes. The findings of this study are most probably supported by the seven similarity centers hypothesis of safflower. This is a first study to explore the genetic diversity and population structure in safflower accessions using the iPBS-retrotransposon markers. The information provided in this work will therefore be helpful for scientists interested in safflower breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite of veterinary and human public health importance for which birds act as an intermediate host. No information is available about the epidemiology of T. gondii in wild birds of Pakistan. The present study was designed to determine the seroprevalence and risk factors associated with T. gondii antibodies in wild birds of District Kasur, Punjab Province, Pakistan. A total of 200 wild birds of 28 species were captured from four tehsils (administrative subdistricts of districts) of the district Kasur and their serum samples screened for the presence of T. gondii antibodies using a latex agglutination test (cut-off value: 1:64). Twenty-five (13%) individual birds and 13 (46%) of the bird species were seropositive for T. gondii antibodies. There were statistical differences in T. gondii prevalence between adults and young (15% and 7%, respectively, P=0.001) and healthy and sick (11% and 50%, respectively, P=0.000) while there were not differences between genders, sites, urbanicity, and tehsils. The present study provides evidence of T. gondii antibodies in wild birds of Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study was conducted at Arid Zone Research Institute (AZRI), Bhakkar, Pakistan during 2016-2017 to determine the effect of sowing dates and seed rates on aphid population in wheat crop. For this purpose six sowing dates (SD); SD1 30-10-2016; SD2 10-11-2016; SD3 20-11-2016; SD4 30-11-2016; SD5 10-12-2016; SD6 20-12-2016; and five seed rates (SR); SR1 30kg/acre; SR2 40Kg/acre; SR3 50Kg/acre; SR4 60Kg/acre; SR5 70Kg/acre were applied. No chemical treatments were applied on experiment. The aphid's infestation results revealed that aphids attack started on 24th February then its number gradually increased, peak aphid's population was recorded at 2nd March. Highest aphids attack was recorded on SD3 (20-11-2016) with the mean number of aphids (77.85/5tillers) and least aphids attack recorded on SD6 (20-12-2016) with the mean number of aphids (12.35/5tillers). The TW11510 advanced line have less mean number of aphids (38.23/5tillers) while UJALA-2016 wheat variety was greatly infested with mean number of aphids (60.67/5tillers). The seed rates 50Kg/acre have higher mean number of aphids (55.26/5tillers) but lower mean number (43.05/5tillers) noted at 70kg/acre. Greater yield (6869.7kgha-1 ) produced by SD2 (10-11-2016), seed rate with higher yield (6358.7kgha-1) recorded at 50kg/acre, TW11510 have higher yield (6059.3kgha-1) than UJALA-2016 wheat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nesting is a common phenomenon in reproductive behavior of birds that plays an important role during their different life stages. Nest composition and location are important factors in studying utility of plant material by avifauna. The current study investigated nesting use of tree species by avifauna at Pabbi Range Forest Kharian (32.811°N and 73.865°E), District Gujrat, from September 2013 to June 2015. Data were collected from five selected sampling sites by searching and identifying nests of different bird species in various vegetation types and observing birds on the nest. The nests were monitored for breeding activity of the particular bird species through clutch size, incubation period, and hatching success. Sixtytwo active nests of various bird species were recorded; common myna Acredotheris tristis, house crow Corvus splendens, Indian robin Saxicoloides fulicatus and black drongo Dicrurus macrocerus preferred Kikar Acacia nilotica and Eucalyptus camaldulensis for nesting purpose while black kite Milvus migrans utilized semal tree Bombax ceiba. The weaver bird Ploceus philippinus also utilized only Acacia nilotica for nesting. The common crow, common myna, black kite, black drongo, red turtle dove Streptopelia tranquebarica and Indian robin Saxicoloides fulicatus successfully bred in particular nests whereas red wattled lapwing Vanellus vanellus, pigeon Columba livia, parrot Psittacula sp. and kingfisher Halcyon sp. did not show any evidence of nesting or breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was conducted at the Institute of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Sargodha, Sargodha, Pakistan during the year 2015. The study was designed to check the suitability of date powder in the composition of muffins. The muffins were prepared with different ingredients (fl our, sugar, eggs, butter, milk, salt, baking powder and date powder). These muffins were tested at five treatments i.e. T0 (muffins without date powder), T1 (25% date powder + 75% sugar), T2 (50% date powder + 50% sugar), T3 (75% date powder + 25% sugar) and T4 (100% date powder). The muffins were evaluated for physico-chemical, microbiological and sensory characteristics. The water activity of date muffins was in the range 0.733-0.767. The color value in T0 (0% date powder) was 163 CTn which was the lightest in color among all treatments while T4 (100% date powder) with color value 126.5 CTn was the darkest among all treatments. The muffins in T0 were found to have minimum softness in texture (maximum compression force) i.e. 1539.5 g as compared to muffins containing 100% date powder i.e. T4 (868.5 g). The proximate analysis of muffins indicated that moisture, crude fibre and ash content differed significantly with the addition of date powder. The moisture contents of all treatments ranged from 26.35 to 34.08%. The crude protein contents for all treatments ranged from 11.46 to 15.14%. The protein, fibre and ash content gradually increased in muffins with the addition of date powder. Minimum gross energy value was observed in T0 (476.4 kcal/100g) whereas the highest in T4 (497.22 kcal/100g). The microbial analysis indicated that these muffins were microbiologically safe and can be kept for long time. The sensory analyses indicated that muffins with 50% replacement of sugar with date powder were liked the most by the judges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: HIV infection was first reported in Pakistan in 1987. Since then it has been a point of concern in the country. Materials & methods: We searched the literature on HIV in Pakistan using different keywords in Google, Pubmed, PakMediNet and GoogleScholar, and found a total of 64 articles dating from 1987 to 2016. Results: Total 4,882,450 individuals from Pakistan have been screened for HIV since last 30 years. The estimated overall prevalence was 0.041% (95% CI: 0.0-6.79). The highest infection rates of 15.05% (SE = 4.27%) were observed in injection drug users, followed by refugees (2.63%), sex workers (2.21%) and prisoners (1.32%). Conclusion: Awareness and medical surveillance programs in the high-risk population are required to decrease future burden of HIV in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present study was conducted at Institute of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Sargodha during 2013 to check the suitability of date paste in wafers replacing cream. The experiment was conducted using CRD factorial experimental design with three replications and five treatments which were T0 (wafers from market), T1 (100 g of date paste), T2 (10 g of skimmed milk powder + 100 g of date paste), T3 (10 g of grinded sugar + 100 g of date paste), T4 (10 g of sugar and 10 g skimmed milk powder + 100 g of date paste). Wafers were subjected to proximate analysis, microbiological analysis and sensory evaluation. Highest moisture and ash contents and lowest NFE value were observed in T2. The highest crude protein and crude fiber contents were observed in T0. The highest crude fiber contents were observed in T1. The lowest gross energy value was observed in T4. Maximum total plate and yeast and mold counts were observed in T0. After sensory tests by the judges T2 was the most preferred because of its excellent color, flavor, taste, texture and overall acceptability scores. The sensory scores decreased after storage period of 90 days. It is suggested that date paste can be used to prepare date wafers of good sensory and nutritional value which provides substantial amount of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, dietary fiber, and minerals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Indian pangolin ( Manis crassicaudata) has been recently listed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature as an endangered species throughout its range, but in Pakistan it is categorized as vulnerable. Very little is known about the breeding habits of this nocturnal and fossorial animal in the wild. The present paper provides information on breeding ecology of its population in Potohar Plateau in Pakistan. A total of 13 specimens were trapped to record breeding condition of the captured animals. Additionally, a questionnaire survey was conducted in the study area to collect breeding data on the species. Our limited data show a male-to-female ratio of 1.6:1. The local population seems to breed once a year, usually from July to October, with a litter size of one to two. The juvenile pangolins were observed during the months of January, April and December. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We collected 10 live and two dead specimens of Indian pangolin (Manis crassicaudata) from Potohar Plateau to record their morpho-anatomical characteristics. The average body weight and length were recorded in three age classes: juvenile, sub-adult and adult. The maximum body weight, body length and tail length was 20 kg, 147.3 cm, and 85.7 cm, respectively. The total number of scales was 286±6.4, 271±24 and 294±11.0 in the juvenile, sub-adult and adult stages, respectively. The size of the scales varied on different body regions, with smallest being on the head and the largest on the trunk region. The number of scales on the head differed significantly from that on the trunk (p < 0.01) and tail (p < 0.05) regions. The number and size of the scales on the fore limbs differed significantly (p < 0.05) from those on the hind limbs. The relative tongue length constituted 37% of the total body length of the adult specimens. The digestive tract constituted 7% of the relative body weight and 19%-23% of the relative body length, whereas relative length of the reproductive tract was 12%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two species of mongoose reported from Pakistan (Herpestes javanicus and H. edwardsii) are sympatric in many areas of their distribution range in the Potohar Plateau. Morphologically, the two species differ in their body size, so there could be substantial anatomical differences between them, not yet documented. The current study compared morphological and anatomical characteristics of the two species inhabiting the Potohar Plateau. Results showed marked morphological and anatomical differences between two mongoose species studied. External morphometrical characteristics including body weight, length of fore limbs, hind limbs and snout length of the two species differed significantly (p < 0.05). Among anatomical parameters, among females, liver weight and heart length of the two species differed significantly (p < 0.05). Among males, significant differences were found between heart length (p < .001), weight of large intestine, stomach, liver and lungs, and weight of right and left testes (p < 0.05) of the two mongoose species. Other anatomical variables of the two species differed non-significantly (p > 0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]