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Circinaria russus sp. nov. is described based on morpho–anatomical and phylogenetic analysis. The novel species is characterized by its reddish brown thallus, absence of marginal lobes, taller hymenium 175–190 µm, and larger ascospores 22–32 × 15–20 than the similar taxon Circinaria tortuosa. A phylogenetic analysis, based on ITS nrDNA sequencing and ML analysis, supported the separation of the novel species. Complete description and a comparative analysis with related Circinaria species are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Balochistan is the largest province of Pakistan where 40% of total camel population is present. People in Balochistan mostly use camel for milking, meat, draught and irrigation purposes to meet their socio-economic needs. Though the camel is a resistant animal, it may get affected by parasitic infections leading to reduced performance. The knowledge regarding occurrence of hemoparasites in camels is still unrevealed, especially in Balochistan. To this end, 384 blood samples were collected from camels from five districts of Zhob division through simple random sampling method. Samples were subjected to microscopic examination which showed 7.55% and 7.03% prevalence of Babesia and Theileria spp., respectively. Furthermore, the 18S rRNA gene of these parasites was amplified through PCR which showed prevalence rate of 25% and 21.35% in case of Babesia and Theileria spp., respectively. Sequence analysis of amplicons confirmed these parasites as B. caballi and T. annulata, Phylogeny of these parasites showed that they were included in a separate clade. Among different factors, the prevalence of these parasites was higher in female animals (Babesia (B)=27.30%, Theileria (T)=23.75%) and the animals with >5 year of age (B=27.27%, T=22.52%). Furthermore, the prevalence was significantly higher (p<0.05) in pregnant camels as compared to lactating and dry animals. Results of this study provide a systematic epidemiological data on the occurrence of Babesia and Theileria spp. in camel population in Balochistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Delays are a pervasive challenge in the global construction industry, requiring more consideration to address project failure. This research proposes an improved methodology for analysing delays in the construction industry. Through a literature review, a set of 85 delay factors was identified and classified into five categories aligned with the various project phases: initiation, design, procurement, execution, and closeout. A method based on the Z-number theory was developed for the evaluation and prioritization of delay factors in the context of Pakistan. This approach incorporates expert judgment, confidence level, and experience to enhance the reliability of the evaluation. The research findings underscore the substantial influence of several critical factors on project delays. Specifically, factors such as cost inflation, contractor financial issues, inadequate project supervision and management, adverse weather conditions, insufficient skilled labour, delays in government document approvals, and unforeseen cost escalations during construction emerged as the foremost contributors to project delays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beyond the concerns associated with marginalised groups' underrepresentation, we posited that socio-demographic aspects and associated stigma provoke gendered social exclusion among older adults. Although these linkages have been frequently acknowledged, concrete evidence remains complicated. In a sample of 384 older adults from various administrative zones of the Lahore metropolitan, we examined that gendered social exclusion is typically connected with socio-demographic stereotypes. Statistics revealed that 72.3% of older adults reported social exclusion. Homemakers and non-workers were more prone to experience social exclusion than employed respondents. Findings further discovered that the social exclusion rates were more significant among older women (93.1%) than older men (47.5%). Among older women, those involved in some employment, having a personal income, living in higher-income households and joint families with their children or peers, and having access to a private car were less possibly socially excluded. The substantial gender aspect of social exclusion appears to be provoked by a gender-based socio-cultural context, limiting older women's participation in daily socio-economic pursuits. Finally, possible consequences of increased social exclusion among older women and strategies to cater to this emerging issue are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Given the potential impact of climate change on the distributions of endemic species, it is critical to implement species recovery and habitat management measures to protect threatened species. This study used MaxEnt modeling to assess the species' habitat suitability in varying climate scenarios in the Western Himalayas and identified ten influential drivers. Our field-based observations of Tragopan melanocephalus show that the species typically lives at elevations between 1850 and 3800 m, which is consistent with the species' reported affinity for extremely high elevations between 1500 and 4000 m above sea level. Our findings reveal that areas with high and moderate suitability for the species are patchily distributed throughout the Western Himalayas, ranging from northeastern Pakistan to central Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Moreover, there are continuous strips of highly suitable habitats along the Pakistan–Afghanistan border, in the Kashmir region, and in the Annapurna region of Uttarakhand. The study observed that the Western Tragopan's habitat suitability may increase under future climate change scenarios, but additional research is needed to avert population collapses and identify other potential drivers of local extinction occurrences. To support increased biodiversity and lower risks under current and anticipated future climatic conditions, it is advised that the suitable areas identified be designated as nature reserves. According to the study's findings, a more effective wildlife management strategy might significantly help with the reintroduction of the Tragopan melanocephalus population into its suitable habitats in western Himalaya, thereby advancing the global objectives set for the UN Decade of Ecosystem Restoration targets (2021–2030). The impact of a changing climate, particularly global warming, often harms the distribution of pheasants, particularly those with limited endemic ranges. To effectively create plans of action aimed at conserving species facing threats such as the Western Tragopan, (Tragopan melanocephalus; Gray, 1829; Galliformes, found in the western Himalayas), it is crucial to understand how future distributions may be affected by anticipated climate change. This study utilized MaxEnt modeling to assess how suitable the habitat of the targeted species is likely to be under different climate scenarios. While similar studies have been conducted regionally, there has been no research on this particular endemic animal species found in the western Himalayas throughout the entire distribution range. The study utilized a total of 200 occurrence points; 19 bioclimatic, four anthropogenic, three topographic, and a vegetation variable were also used. To determine the most fitting model, species distribution modeling (SDM) was employed, and the MaxEnt calibration and optimization techniques were utilized. Data for projected climate scenarios of the 2050s and 2070s were obtained from SSPs 245 and SSPs 585. Among all the variables analyzed; aspect, precipitation of coldest quarter, mean diurnal range, enhanced vegetation index, precipitation of driest month, temperature seasonality, annual precipitation, human footprint, precipitation of driest quarter, and temperature annual range were recognized as the most influential drivers, in that order. The predicted scenarios had high accuracy values (AUC-ROC > 0.9). Based on the feedback provided by the inhabitants, it was observed that the livability of the selected species could potentially rise (between 3.7 to 13%) in all projected scenarios of climate change, because this species is relocating towards the northern regions of the elevation gradient, which is farther from the residential areas, and their habitats are shrinking. The suitable habitats of the Tragopan melanocephalus in the Himalayan region will move significantly by 725 m upwards, because of predicted climate change. However, the fact that the species is considered extinct in most areas and only found in small patches suggests that further research is required to avert a further population decline and delineate the reasons leading to the regional extinction of the species. The results of this study can serve as a foundation for devising conservation strategies for Tragopan melanocephalus under the changing climate and provide a framework for subsequent surveillance efforts aimed at protecting the species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The commonly occurring haemoparasites in pigeons include Plasmodium, Leucocytozoon and Haemoproteus which cause decrease in production and performance of the birds. Due to the dearth of knowledge on prevalence of these parasites in pigeons in Pakistan, current survey-based study was planned to assess the prevalence of above-mentioned parasites in pigeons in selected rural areas of District Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan. The morphological identification of parasites was done under microscope by comparing it with standard keys. Out of 384 samples, 56.51% were found positive for haemoparasites. According to town-wise distribution, Jinnah town, Iqbal town, Madina town and Lyallpur town prevalence was 61.24, 48.86, 55.56, and 59.26%, respectively. According to genus-wise distribution, 48.14, 48.21, and 64.92% prevalence of mixed infection, genera Plasmodium/Haemoproteus and Leucocytozoon were observed, respectively. The prevalence was found high in female birds (65.9%) as compared to male birds (51.18%). The prevalence was higher in Cheena (69.02%) and Golden breeds (76.57%) as compared to Sialkoti (32.89%) and Dub wali (37.17%). The prevalence was found higher in squabs (74.15%) as compared to adults (49.6%) and growers (52.56%), in scavengers feeding pattern (77.31%) as compared to feeders (35.78%), and in open coop type (76.68%) as compared to closed coop type (36.12%). The values of Hb, PCV, and RBC's count were lower, while WBC's counts were higher in infected pigeons. The values of uric acid, creatinine, albumin and bilirubin were lower while gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST) and glucose were higher in infested birds as compared to non- infected birds. The study indicated the impact of haemoparasites on the hematological parameters of the birds and the data generated could help in formulating effective control strategies against haemoparasites particularly Plasmodium, Leucocytozoon and Haemoproteus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research investigated the best economically viable power source with the least environmental impact and socially acceptable for the maize crop. Maize is one of the key economic crops in Pakistan. Solar-, electric-, and diesel-powered drip irrigation systems (DIS) were considered for comparative study. We selected 45 sites of maize crop to collect the data, with an area of 1–3 ha, from three divisions. For economic viability, the benefit:cost ratio, life cycle cost, and payback period were calculated, and CO2 emissions were calculated to assess the environmental impact. The SPSS model was used for one-way ANOVA followed by post hoc and chi-squared tests to check the significance level between all power sources. It was found that the B-C of electric power, solar, and diesel drip irrigation systems was 1.65, 1.52, and 1.44, respectively. Solar, diesel, and electricity power DIS have CO2 emissions of 0.02, 0.730, and 1.106 tons/ha, respectively. The research concludes that solar power and electric power are the best sources for the environment and economically, respectively. It is recommended that solar power DIS be subsidized, which will help to lower CO2 emissions and reduce the electricity shortfall in Pakistan. [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]

Objective: To determine the impact of the information seminar on breast cancer awareness among the medical and nursing students of CMH institute of Medical Sciences (CIMS) Multan Pakistan. Study Design: Prospective Comparative Study. Place and Duration of Study: One-day seminar at CMH Institute of Medical Sciences (CIMS) Multan Pakistan. Methodology: A one-day seminar on breast cancer awareness was arranged at CMH Institute of Medical Sciences Multan Pakistan for 3rd and 4th-year MBBS and 3rd-year BSc Nursing students. A total of 137 participants were recruited. Participants were selected by non-probability consecutive sampling. A validated 13-question questionnaire was designed to assess participants' basic knowledge of breast cancer and breast self-examination (BSE). Results: The mean age of participants was 21.27±0.99 years. 30(21.9%) were males and 107(78.1%) were female students. Before the seminar, approximately half of the students were correct about the demographics and presentation of breast cancer which increased to more than 80% in all avenues post-seminar (p<0.001). The most significant improvement was the correct responses regarding the age at which BSE should begin. Its frequency and correct technique pre-seminar were 75(54.7%), 51(37.2%) and 23(16.8%), which in post-seminar were 98(71.5%), 106(77.4%) and 75(54.7%) respectively (p<0.001). Conclusion: This one-day educational seminar played a significant role in increasing awareness among medical and nursing students. [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]

Climate change is a severe threat for productivity of sugarcane crop. Crop models have potential to quantify the climate change impacts, and management practices effects on development and productivity of sugarcane crop. These models provide simulations as a result of interaction between genotype, management, and environment. The current study was conducted with the objectives to (1) calibration, evaluation and application of CSM-CANEGRO-Sugarcane model (2) climate change assessment and make adaptation strategies for industrial (spring and autumn crops) and non-industrial (summer crop) sugarcane. Two field experiments regarding industrial sugarcane were carried out at Multan during 2013–2014 and 2014–2015 and two field experiments regarding ponda chewing sugarcane (non-industrial, thick, soft and juicier sugarcane) at Vehari during 2017 and 2018. Calibration and evaluation of CSM-CANEGRO-Sugarcane model showed that all model statistical parameters were obtained under acceptable range. Model sensitivity was also evaluated against Carbon, Temperature and Water analysis for both sites. Results revealed that average temperature is increased almost 0.94 °C during baseline weather data (1980–2018), while according to different climate projections by Global Climate Models (GCMs), average temperature 3–5 °C can be increase during mid-century. So, without adaptation strategies, fresh cane yield will be decreased ranging from 15.31 to 22.57% at different GCMs during mid-century (2039–2069). Adaptation strategies; like 18–25 days earlier planting, increasing 15% N application quantity and increasing frequency of irrigation and growing heat tolerant and more growing degree days requiring varieties can compensate the negative impact of climate change in future scenario. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The Himalayan pheasants have many cultural, economic, and environmental values. Still, unfortunately, the species is under anthropogenic pressure and biological hazards, leading to a rapid decline in its population. The current study aims to identify the human pressures imposed by major infrastructure development projects, illegal hunting, deforestation, pollution, non-timber forest collections, and other natural activities that severely damage the pheasant habitat and population in the study area. Higher altitude valleys with less disturbed habitats have significantly higher encounter rates and densities than those at lower altitudes and higher human pressure. This research suggests that conservation biologists and the wildlife department of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa should formulate approaches for effective conservation and better habitat management. It may include public awareness regarding pheasant's beneficial aspects, pre-implementations of the wildlife management plan for a major infrastructure development project, and strict rules and policies around deforestation and habitat degradation. The study also recommends that the habitat of the pheasants, specifically the threatened area of Western Tragopan, be considered a legally reserved area of conservation to improve its conservation status. Pheasants play a distinctive and significant role in high altitudinal ecosystems. These are good indicators of environmental changes, and their presence determines the health and balance of the bio-network. Recent human pressure continues to degrade their populations, and some pheasant species are already extinct. Therefore, the current study focuses on pheasant abundance and emerging conservation issues. The pheasant population was assessed using "Call count methods" and analyzed by DISTANCE software. The results revealed that the valleys where human interference is minimum had significantly higher encounter rates and densities of pheasants. At the same time, the pheasant population was severely affected, whether found at lower or higher altitudes, showing seasonal migration toward human settlements. The habitat suitability modeling was performed using the MaxEnt model and showed that human activities overlap with the suitable natural habitats of pheasants. The threats were identified using a systematic questionnaire survey from the nearest villages of the potential habitat, and particular attention was paid to valleys where human pressures were found to be high. Major infrastructure development projects, illegal hunting, and deforestation were identified as the major threats to the pheasant population. The study concluded that proper conservation measures are required to protect pheasants in their potential habitats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Eastern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is home to a vast range of medicinal and edible waterbird species due to its diverse geographical environment. Waterbird species have been used for various ailments and cultural practices since ancient times, while ethno-pharmacological applications and cultural uses of waterbird species in this area have seldom been documented. This study is the first ethnomedicinal and cultural assessment of waterbird species, and the first compilation and listing of all known data on these species in Eastern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Methods: Interviews and questionnaires were used to collect data from native respondents (N = 100). To analyze the data, principal component analysis (PCA), relative frequency of citation (RFC), fidelity level (FL%), relative popularity level (RPL), rank order priority, and similarity index were used. Results: In total, 64 waterbird species were utilized in cultural practices, of which 40 species are used to cure different infectious and chronic diseases such as cold, cough, flu, fever, respiratory disorders, asthma, TB, gastric ulcers, kidney stones, male impotency, obesity, paralysis, piles, cancer, arthritis, body pain, and weakness. PCA showed significant differences in the use of waterbird species among the local inhabitants of the study area, separated along the axis-2 (p < 0.05). The FL% of waterbird species varied from 12 to 100%. 100% FL was analyzed for four waterbird species, i.e., Charadrius mongolus (cold), Gallicrex cinerea (asthma), Anas platyrhynchos (cancer), and Esacus recurvirostris (body weakness). In this study, Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) was the most popular species used in the healthcare system of Eastern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with high RFC (4.06), FL% (100), and RPL (1.0) values. Conclusion: We concluded that waterbird species are more used for medicine and food purposes in the study area. However, in vitro/in vivo assessment of biochemical activities of waterbird species with a maximum FL% might be significant to produce novel drugs. Recent research shows important ethno-ornithological information about native people and their links with waterbird species, which might be helpful for the sustainable use of waterbird diversity in the research area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Analyzing human behaviors using computer-based approaches is a new dimension of digital humanity. It integrates computing with healthcare, psychology, and social media. Like other healthcare and medical-related problems, anxiety and depressive disorders are common in Pakistan. In the existing era, this disease is not only affecting people of all ages but the impact of depression is also witnessed on social media communications. On social media, anyone could not guess about the mental conditions of a user through his/ her tweets or comments. Especially, the prediction of depressed unknown users through his behavior on social media is a hard task. Computer science and the medical domain can eliminate such healthcare-related issues. In this paper, a system has been proposed to detect and analyze the behavior of a user on social media. The proposed system comprises of an algorithm that performs sentimental analysis of users’ tweets and comments and a web-based platform to share best practices and success stories of users who have recovered from the disease. The system has been tested on real-time data obtained from tweeter using Application Programming Interface (API). Top trends have been focused to obtain the data and the proposed system successfully detected the users under depression. After working on the huge dataset, the proposed system will be a good contribution to humanity. [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]

Objective: To determine the diagnostic accuracy of the Mentzer index as a screening tool for iron deficiency anaemia, using an iron profile as the gold standard in patients presenting with hypochromic microcytic anaemia. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Pediatrics, Pak Emirates Military Hospital, Rawalpindi Pakistan, from Dec 2021 to May 2022. Methodology: Data was collected from 163 patients with hypochromic microcytic anaemia. Red cell indices were noted for each patient and recorded on a defined proforma. Results: The mean age of the patients was 8.23±3.57 years. 85(52.1%) patients were males and 78(47.9%) were females. Moreover, out of 163 patients, the specificity, sensitivity, negative predictive value, positive predictive value, and diagnostic accuracy of the Mentzer index for the diagnosis of iron deficiency anaemia were 90.1%, 90.1%, 84.6%, 93.8%, and 90.8%, respectively. Conclusion: The cell-count-based indices, especially the Mentzer index, are reliable and available methods for diagnosing iron deficiency anaemia. They have an accurate discrimination ability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a public health and human rights issue with the social and economic impacts felt by women. Punjab is a male-dominated society, where partner violence is generally accepted as a cultural norm and viewed as normal behavior within a marriage. It stems from attitudes that partner violence is a private matter and usually a justifiable response to misbehavior on the part of the wife. The focus of the current study is to investigate the impact of this cultural norm in acceptability attitude of women toward IPV in Punjab province. A large-scale sample size of more than 46,000 from Multi-Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) 2018 has been used. The impact of the cultural norm on the wife-beating attitude has been investigated in five dimensions: wife going out without telling him, neglecting the children, arguing with him, refusing to have sex with him, and burning the food. The logistic regression results indicate that wife-beating is accepted as a community norm. It has been found that if wife-beating is accepted by community, then the individual female is more than 3 times more likely to consider it justifiable in all five dimensions. The other important factors are education level, household wealth, ethnicity, media exposure, and wife–husband age difference. The level of education of women plays the most important role in rejecting the wife-beating norm, as an increase in level of education is associated with an increase in the probability of rejecting the wife-beating. So, the current study suggests that there is a dire need to increase the female education level to overcome this issue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Safflower is an underutilized and minor oilseed crop that received less attention from the scientific community compared to other oilseed crops like soybean and sunflower. Exploring the genetic basis associated with agronomic traits is crucial for markerassisted breeding of safflower. A genome-wide association study was conducted using a total of 12,232 DArTseq markers to identify the marker-trait association for important agronomic traits in an international safflower panel derived from 26 different geographical countries of the world. Statistically significant genotypic effects (p < 0.05) were observed across mean data of both locations (Pakistan and Turkey). Moderate to high heritability estimates were observed for the studied traits. Studied material showed higher performance for all traits except seeds per capitulum in Pakistan compared to Turkey. Phenotypic diversity for important agronomic traits, such as plant height (60.08 to 121.48 cm), capitula per plant (8.7 to 80.4), seeds per capitulum (15 to 42.05), and seed yield per plant (4.85 to 51.02 g), was illustrated. Seed yield per plant showed a highly significant and positive correlation with capitula per plant (0.4985***). Constellation plot analysis resulted in four groups, i.e. A, B, C, and D. Genotyping by sequencing resulted in 12,232 DArTseq markers being used for the investigation of marker-trait association through mixed linear model (Q + K) approach. DArT-38077549 showed significant association with capitula per plant, while two markers (DArT-22763576, DArT-22763253) were associated with plant height. A total of two markers (DArT-38079422, DArT-100043360) were associated with seeds per capitulum. A total of five DArTseq markers showed significant association with seed yield per plant and maximum variation was resulted by DArT-100004992. The results of this study provide a new insight to understand the genetic basis associated with agronomic traits in safflower. We envisage that significant markers identified through this investigation may be applicable in future safflower marker-assisted breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pakistan is 5th most populous country in the world and striving to achieve population equilibrium. Unfortunately, one in five women in Pakistan has not been using contraceptives and thus bearing unwanted pregnancies. Female's participation in their own matters and benefits from social, economic, and political spheres has remained very low. Gender inequality is often cited as a barrier to improving women's sexual and reproductive health outcomes, including contraceptive use. Pakistan is ranked at 148th place out of the 149 countries in Global Gender Gap Report 2018, which indicates very high gender inequality. Keeping in view this fact, we investigated the impact of women's decision-making autonomy on contraceptive use among married women age 15–49 years in Pakistan. Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey 2018 data has been used for analysis by using descriptive statistics, association tests, and multiple logistic regression. Women's participation in making four household decisions: access to health care; large household purchases; what to do with the husband earning and freedom to visit family and relatives have been used as women's decision-making autonomy. The results indicated that women's decision-making autonomy has been positively associated with contraceptive use. Women's age, province of residence, education level, household wealth status, number of children, time since last sex, and awareness about family planning services have also been found statistically significantly associated with contraceptive use. The current study suggests integrating the interventions for women's decision-making autonomy into family planning programs. For this purpose, the development of community-based awareness programs for women's decision-making autonomy and contraceptive use could be useful interventions to achieve population equilibrium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ongoing outbreak of novel Coronavirus originated from Wuhan, China, and vigorously spread throughout the globe causing serious concerns. This study aimed to appraise the community demographics, knowledge, attitudes, practices mental health, symptoms, and precautionary measures during the COVID‐19 pandemic in Pakistan. This study was a cross‐sectional and observational study. An online semi‐structured questionnaire was designed by freely available Google Forms. A Referral Sampling technique was used, a total of 439 responses were recorded and analyzed by using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences. Regression analysis and multinomial logistic regression analysis were done to test the hypothesis. This study shows more than 63% of participants maintain social distancing at their workplaces, offices, markets, and so forth and 59% of participants stayed at their homes during the lockdown. Almost 75% of participants did not attend any gathering during COVID‐19. Most participants (75.4%) wear masks and gloves, and 85.6% of participants wash their hands with soap and using hand sanitizer regularly. This study shows that 40.8% and 36.2% of participants felt anxiety and fear due to Coronavirus. This study shows that knowledge among the population in Pakistan about COVID‐19 was low. Continued efforts are needed to address knowledge, attitudes, and practices to interrupt novel Coronavirus transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The existing studies on innovation extensively focused on such economic factors as foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows, trade openness, and R&D investments. Contrastingly, non-economic factors have received less research attention in the innovation literature. Lousy governance may lead to political and institutional ineffectiveness. Widespread corruption weakens the accountability practices and rule of law and may consequently hamper innovation. Similarly, terrorism deters flows of investment, increases unproductive costs, causes brain drains, decreases R&D investment and entrepreneurial activities and finally inhibits rates of innovation. This study empirically investigates the impacts of governance structure, terrorism, FDI inflows, and trade openness upon innovation in a laggard country: Pakistan. The findings via the ARDL co-integration approach show that lousy governance, terrorism and FDI inflows have adverse impacts on innovation. Trade openness positively influences innovation, but only in the long run. The results across several robust checks remain the same. Policy implications are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It was a descriptive research which studied the use of non-verbal communication in the pedagogic practices at secondary school level in Lahore. The study was conducted to examine the practices of teachers' non-verbal communication used in conjunction with verbal communication in actual classroom setting by teachers which affected the participation and performance level of learners. It investigated the students' understanding, interpretation of and attitude towards non-verbal communication used by teachers and identified the existing barriers for the use of non-verbal communication strategies to improve students' learning. The non-verbal communication was restricted to five factors--physical appearance, facial expressions, eye contact, spatial distance and paralinguistic. The study was limited to the subject of English (compulsory) at the female secondary schools in public sector. The sample comprised of 1200 students and 40 teachers from female public high schools of Lahore (Punjab), Pakistan. The study recommended that all female teachers at secondary level schools should be provided an orientation in non-verbal communication which would help them to use these skills in their teaching methodologies. While recognizing the importance of non-verbal communication, the curriculum planners and policy makers should take practical steps to make it a part of teacher education programs for the training of prospective teachers. Moreover, an awareness among students shall be created on how to interpret and reflect upon the teachers' non-verbal communication signals during teaching-learning process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pakistan's economy greatly benefits from citrus production since these fruits are sold and consumed all over the world. Although citrus fruits are easy to cultivate, they are susceptible to diseases caused by bacteria, viruses, and fungi. These challenges, as well as difficulties in obtaining the proper nutrients, might negatively impact fruit yields and quality. Citrus canker is another complicated problem caused by the germ Xanthomonas axonopodis. This germ affects many types of citrus fruits all over the world. This study looked closely at how citrus canker affects the leaves and the quality of the fruit in places like Sargodha, Bhalwal, Kotmomin, and Silanwali, which are big areas for growing citrus in the Sargodha district. What we found was that plants without the disease had more chlorophyll in their leaves compared to the sick plants. Also, the healthy plants had better amounts of important minerals like calcium, magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus in their fruits. But the fruits with the disease had too much sodium, and the iron levels were a bit different. The fruits with the disease also didn't have as much of something that protects them called antioxidants, which made them more likely to get sick. This study helps us understand how citrus canker affects plants and fruit, so we can think of ways to deal with it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of variety and plant environment on nutritional composition, phenolic contents and antioxidant activities from commercial wheat cultivars grown in Pakistan. Chemical composition, total phenolic contents and antioxidant activities were measured in twenty-seven spring wheat varieties grown for two cropping years. Preliminary assessment of antioxidant strength of the extracts was carried out by the evaluation of total phenolic contents (TPC), antioxidant activity (AA) and free radical scavenging activity (FRSA). The grain length, width and a thousand kernel weight of different wheat varieties ranged from 6.75-6.77 mm, 3.44-3.45 mm and 42.95-45.16 g respectively. Similarly, the moisture, ash, crude fat, crude fiber, crude protein, wet gluten, dry gluten, flour gliadins, flour glutenins contents and SDS-sedimentation value varied from 10.23-10.61%, 1.47-1.48%, 1.16-1.21%, 1.37-1.40%, 11.86-12.02%, 25.39-25.46%, 8.85-8.87%, 0.46-0.52%, 0.46-0.49% and 24.99-25.85 ml respectively among different wheat varieties. In the same way, the results for total phenolic contents, free radical scavenging activity (DPPH assay) and antioxidant activity via beta carotene bleaching assay varied from 12.40-11.73 mg GE/g, 18.48-18.99% and 14.23-15.97% respectively. Our research clearly indicated that wheat variety, input conditions, environmental and genotypic variations gave effects on the phenolic antioxidant properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To discern the relationship of height and weight with body composition in healthy attendants of cancer patients. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Combined Military Hospital, Rawalpindi Pakistan, from Oct to Dec 2022. Methodology: A total of 226 healthy adults aged 19-47 years having similar daily physical activity levels were included. The body composition of study participants was evaluated using a bioelectric impedance analysis (BIA) machine. The weight of all participants was recorded with the help of a weighing machine. The participants' height was measured using a Harp enden Stadiometer and recorded. Results: Our study showed that weight had a significant positive correlation with body fat mass (rs value=0.83), skeletal muscle mass (rs value=0.763), total body water (rs value=0.704), fat-free mass (rs value=0.75) and per cent body fat (rs value 0.716). On the other hand, height had a negative but non-significant association with fat mass (rs value= 0.025) and a negative significant association with per cent body fat (rs value=-0.16). Height had a positive and significant association with fat-free mass (rs value=0.553), total body water (rs value=0.501) and skeletal muscle mass (rs value=0.505). Conclusion: Weight, if used alone, is not a good indicator of obesity or emaciation, and height has a negative association with fat mass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To validate a clinical scoring system for defining the severity of ailment that will assist in developing strategies for management prioritisation. Study Design: Cross-sectional analytical study. Place and Duration of Study: Paediatric Department, Combined Military Hospital Lahore, Pakistan, form Jan 2020 to Jul 2021. Methodology: The paediatric patients who reported to the Medical Reception Centre and were admitted to an Inpatient Facility were enrolled. Demographic profile, temperature, oxygen saturation, pulse, respiratory rate, seizures, and sensorium labelled as "TOPRS" score was recorded with "0 - Normal" and "1 - Abnormal" and scores calculated for each patient with the incorporation of systemic inflammatory response and advanced paediatric life support criteria. Results: A total of 300 paediatric patients with an age range of 1-18 years (mean: 3.86±5.43) were included. Of 300 patients, 237(79%) were discharged after improvement, and the mortality rate was 63(21%). A significant association with the mortality rate was deciphered with temperature, oxygen saturation, and respiratory rate variables. In contrast, pulse rate, sensorium, and seizures were concluded to have an insignificant association. Score "0" mortality was associated with the 4.4% mortality, whereas score "5" enumerated an 80% death rate. Conclusion: The TOPRS clinical scoring system has significant value in the diagnosis of mortality and morbidity of paediatric patients and, hence, can assist in early recognition and triage of patients, consequently aiding in the provision of prioriti sation protocols and management in a befitting manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Innovative capacity has a decisive and crucial role in determining who is prospering in the global arena. Innovation is crucial for value creation, high productivity, economic growth, employment, and sustainable development that benefit the consumers, firms, businesses, and economy as a whole. Several institutional, political, and social conditions lead to different responses of innovation. For instance, low voice and accountability may lead to low institutional setting, cronyism, and favoritism in allocation of resources, which can harm innovation. Similarly, the terrorist attack of 9/11 caused horrific scales of destructions, which caught the countries on various fronts such as economic, political, and technological. Further, sound infrastructure and savings rates are essential to enhance innovation. Applying the ARDL approach to cointegration, this study investigates the impact of voice and accountability, terrorism, infrastructure, and savings on innovation in Pakistan. The empirical evidence shows that low voice and accountability and terrorism have adverse impacts on innovation in the short- and long-run periods. Further, findings reveal that inadequate infrastructures and low savings adversely affect the innovation in both periods. Various robust checks such as Maki cointegration, Johansen cointegration test, fully modified ordinary least square, dynamic ordinary least square, and canonical cointegration regression corroborate the results. The findings of the study would be of substantial implications for government and policymakers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agriculture production can be enhanced by considering all the farm operations especially the harvesting of crops is the more sensitive operation. The selection of appropriate farm machinery for harvesting not only save the harvesting time but also enhance the farm profitability. The agro-climatic and economic factors are the major hindrance on the way to adopt the harvesting machinery and latest movers in Pakistan. The objective of this work was to redesign an engine operated reaper at affordable price and performance evaluation of this reaper for harvesting three different crops (wheat, rice and brassica). Three levels of reaper ground speed (S) (1.94, 2.54 and 3.18 kmh-1) and three different levels of moisture contents (MC) for each crop were considered as factors. A (3 x 3) factorial analysis was conducted to see the impact of "MC" and "S" on percent slippage, field efficiency and shatter losses. The main effects of S and MC were significant for all the crops for each factor (p<0.05), except MC which was non-significant for shatter losses in wheat and rice (p= 0.0667) and (p=0.847), respectively. Statistical Analysis showed that selected levels of MC and S had significant effect on % slippage, field efficiency and shatter losses. The cost analysis indicated that the breakeven point of the modified reaper can be achieved after 19 days of purchase. Study demonstrated that grain losses can be minimized, and farm profitability can be maximized by selecting suitable combination of M and S. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In Pakistan, the death rate for post-menopausal women with breast cancer is significant due to late detection and delayed referral to proper facilities. There are a few reports on Pakistan's epidemiology and breast cancer risk factors. There are modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors associated with the development of breast carcinoma; of which body mass index (BMI), central obesity, and lipid profile are considered as major risk markers. Methods: This was a cross-sectional analytical study. A total of 384 women constituted the present study sample. Purposive sampling was used to collect 192 confirmed new breast cancer cases throughout the study. By using basic random sampling, an equal number of controls were chosen. Studied parameters included age, fasting blood sugar, cholesterol, triglyceride, serum high-density lipoprotein, cholesterol, serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, weight, height, BMI, waist circumference, and waist-to-hip ratio. The inclusion criteria of this study were post-menopausal women (45–65 years) in Pakistan. The confirmation of breast carcinoma was done through histopathology. Breast cancer occurrence was taken as a dependent variable, whereas BMI, central obesity, and lipid profile were taken as independent variables. Results: Studied risk factors (cholesterol, BMI, and central obesity) significantly correlated with breast cancer. Cholesterol has a significantly high positive correlation (0.646) with breast cancer. BMI has a positive significant correlation (0.491) with breast cancer, and central obesity has a low but positive significant correlation (0.266) with breast cancer. Moreover, the binary logistic regression model also showed a significant association between biochemical factors and breast cancer occurrence. Regression analysis depicted a linear relationship between a dependent variable (breast cancer occurrence) and independent variables (central obesity, cholesterol, BMI). Conclusion: Postmenopausal overweight (central obesity), increased BMI and high cholesterol levels are major risk factors for breast cancer. Moreover, high total cholesterol proved to be the most significant risk marker for the occurrence of breast cancer in post-menopausal women of Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this present study was to explore antioxidant and bioactive profile of ginger and turmeric. For the purpose, turmeric and ginger (Haldi and Adric) were procured from University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Punjab-Pakistan. The study was comprised of different phases. Both of the spices were characterized for their chemical composition and mineral profile. Bioactive compound was extracted by using solvent followed by quantification through the high-pressure liquid chromatography. Furthermore, antioxidant potential including total phenolics content, free radical scavenging activity (DPPH assay) and Ferric reducing antioxidant power test (FRAP assay) was analyzed. Results revealed that the antioxidant profile including free radical scavenging activity (47.67 ± 0.19 mg/100 g) and DPPH (80.16 ± 0.23%) of turmeric ginger powder extract was much higher than turmeric and ginger powder extract. Similarly, total phenolics content (103.39 ± 0.58 mg of GAE/g) and flavonoids (4.27 ± 0.05 mg CE/100 g) were much higher in turmeric ginger powder as compared to turmeric powder and ginger powder, respectively. Conclusively, turmeric ginger powder showed higher antioxidant potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To determine the diagnostic accuracy of the pSOFA score in predicting mortality in critically ill pediatric patients. Study Design: Cross-sectional validation study. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Paediatrics, Pak-Emirates Military Hospital, Rawalpindi Pakistan, Aug 2021 to Feb 2022. Methodology: We studied 76 critically ill paediatric patients. All patients underwent pSOFA scoring on admission and then at 72 hours post-admission and were followed up till discharge or till mortality occurred. A pSOFA score of >10 was considered a high mortality risk. The two-by-two table was constructed to calculate the sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic accuracy of the pSOFA score in predicting the occurrence of death. Results: The pSOFA score had a sensitivity of 88.9% at Day-0, which improved to 100% by Day-7 in predicting whether mortality occurred. The specificity was 80.6% on Day-0 and 97.0% on Day-7. The diagnostic accuracy of pSOFA in predicting mortality was 81.6% when performed on the day of admission, which increased to 90.8% when calculated on Day 3 and was the highest on Day-7 when it was 97.4%. Conclusion: The pSOFA score has good diagnostic accuracy in predicting the occurrence of mortality in paediatric patients admitted to intensive care, which increases as the length of stay increases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context • Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis result in similar gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, including pain, diarrhea, stools with mucus or blood, and ulceration or tissue damage within the alimentary canal. Gut microbiota play a crucial role in triggering, maintaining, and exacerbating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Probiotics might help to rebalance the gut flora in a positive way, shifting from pro- to anti-inflammatory. Objectives • The study intended to investigate the safety and use of probiotics and the biological effects of probiotic bacteria on IBD. Design • The research team performed a literature review. The team conducted a database search in April 2015 using Google Scholar and PubMed to find studies relevant to probiotics and their use in IBD. Only papers that were published in English were considered, and all available years in each database were searched. The initial search identified 38 published articles, for which the research team obtained full texts and independently read them in full to identify those papers suitable for inclusion in the review. Setting • The study took place in the main library of the University of Lahore (Islamabad, Pakistan). Results • Many strains of probiotics exist, but the most common strains available today are (1) the Bifidobacterium species, (2) Enterococcus faecium, (4) the Lactobacillus strains, (4) Saccharomyces boulardii, (5) the Bacillus species, and (6) Pediococcus, all used to produce beneficial health effects. These species showed their beneficial effects on the host using different mechanisms involving (1) production of proteins, quorum sensing signaling inhibitors, butyrate, immunoglobulin A, and short-chain fatty acids; (2) decreased production of tumor necrosis factor alpha and interleukin 8; (3) increased expression of mucin 2; and (4) increased upregulation of defensin. Conclusions • Studies on probiotics in animal models of IBD are promising, and clinical results in IBD patients are encouraging; however, the data are limited, and few studies are placebo controlled. Additional placebo-controlled, double-blind studies in IBD are required before recommendations can be offered for routine use of probiotics in IBD. Additional organisms may eventually be developed through genetic engineering. The current evidence also indicates that probiotic effects are strain specific; they do not act through the same mechanisms nor are all probiotics indicated for the same health conditions. More research is needed to determine what strains and at what dose probiotics become more useful as part of a clinical intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field survey was conducted for the sampling of Acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACCase) inhibitor resistance littleseed canarygrass, a major weed of wheat, from Punjab, Pakistan in 2014 for confirmation of resistance. The surveyed regions encompassed four different cropping systems including rice–wheat, maize–wheat, cotton–wheat and mixed cropping. Dose–response assay was conducted for confirmation of resistance. Efficacy of herbicide mixtures including clodinafop–propargyl, metribuzin, pinoxaden and sulfosulfuron at a range of doses was investigated to manage littleseed canarygrass. Results revealed that all populations were resistant to fenoxaprop except PM-BWL-2. The higher level resistance (6.5) was found in populations collected from rice–wheat cropping system. The tested herbicide mixtures at 75% and 100% of the recommended dose of each mixture component provided the effective control of resistant littleseed canarygrass. Mixtures at 50% provided more than 80% control and reduced growth and seed production potential of surviving plants. The confirmation of ACCase inhibitor resistance as the first case of herbicide resistance in Pakistan, leads us to discourage use of ACCase inhibitor herbicides alone. However, herbicide mixtures at 75% and 100% of the recommended dose are suggested to manage this weed for sustainable wheat production in the surveyed cropping systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To review the validity of the future of health and care of older people (TFHCOP), good death perception criteria in Muslim patients and health care providers in cultural background of Pakistan. Study Design: A mixed method design with qualitative and quantitative components. Place and Duration of Study: Oncology Department, Combined Military Hospital, Rawalpindi, from July 2015 to October 2015. Material and Methods: It is a sequential explanatory type of mixed method research. A total of 110 participants were included in the study by non probability convenient sampling technique. A modified questionnaire was used based on the principles of TFHCOP good death definition comprising of 8 questions. This was followed by interviews. For data collection and analysis grounded theory approach was used with constant comparisons and open coding. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze questionnaire responses. For bivariate analysis we used chi-square test. Results: There was a consensus on the principles presented in the modified questionnaire in the two groups studied. Total of three domains measured non-significant difference in patient’s and health care provider’s perspectives. Participants identified four more domains. The first domain was related to faith in Allah Almighty, second domain is about leaving the will for bereaved, third domain was about the concerns to finish unfinished agendas and the fourth domain was related to the importance of family security over treatment or death. Conclusion: Perception of good death by Muslim patients and health care providers in Pakistan is different from that of Western and Arab communities in certain domains like religious beliefs, leaving will for the bereaved, finishing unfinished work and the importance of family concerns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the impact of the information seminar on breast cancer awareness among the medical and nursing students of CMH institute of Medical Sciences (CIMS) Multan Pakistan. Study Design: Prospective Comparative Study. Place and Duration of Study: One-day seminar at CMH Institute of Medical Sciences (CIMS) Multan Pakistan. Methodology: A one-day seminar on breast cancer awareness was arranged at CMH Institute of Medical Sciences Multan Pakistan for 3rd and 4th-year MBBS and 3rd-year BSc Nursing students. A total of 137 participants were recruited. Participants were selected by non-probability consecutive sampling. A validated 13-question questionnaire was designed to assess participants' basic knowledge of breast cancer and breast self-examination (BSE). Results: The mean age of participants was 21.27±0.99 years. 30(21.9%) were males and 107(78.1%) were female students. Before the seminar, approximately half of the students were correct about the demographics and presentation of breast cancer which increased to more than 80% in all avenues post-seminar (p<0.001). The most significant improvement was the correct responses regarding the age at which BSE should begin. Its frequency and correct technique pre-seminar were 75(54.7%), 51(37.2%) and 23(16.8%), which in post-seminar were 98(71.5%), 106(77.4%) and 75(54.7%) respectively (p<0.001). Conclusion: This one-day educational seminar played a significant role in increasing awareness among medical and nursing students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early age marriage is associated with a range of poor social, economic, physical, and health outcomes for adolescent girls and their descendants. Early age marriage is a crime and violation of human rights. Female early age marriage is a serious issue in Pakistan. The objective of the current study has been to find the key determinants of early age marriages of females in Pakistan. The respondents of the study have been married females in the age group of 15–49 years. The nationally representative household survey data "Pakistan Demographic Health Survey (PDHS) 2017-18" has been used for the analysis. The analysis has been done using descriptive statistics, association tests, and logistic regression. The results indicate that the variables included in the analysis are statistically significant. As compared to poorest, the odds ratios associated with poorer, middle, richer, richest have been 0.795, 0.722, 0.579, and 0.532 respectively. As compared to illiterate, the odds ratios associated with a primary, secondary, and a higher level of education have been: 0.954, 0.531, and 0.141 respectively. As compared to working females the odds ratio associated with not working has been 1.169. The odds ratios associated with Balochi, Saraiki, Pushto, Sindhi, Punjabi, and other ethnic groups have been 1.694, 1.499, 1.447, 1.195, 0.906, and 1.31 respectively. Being an urban resident has an odds ratio of 0.897 against the rural resident. It is concluded that higher education level of female, better household wealth status, working female job status and media exposure reduces the likelihood of girls' early age marriages in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study, based on the conservation of resource theory, aims to investigate the negative impacts of abusive supervision on helping behaviors among employees by examining the mediating role of rumination and the moderating role of psychological flexibility. Design/methodology/approach: A total sample of 282 reliable questionnaires are collected from 282 employees working in education and banking sectors of Pakistan. SPSS and AMOS are used for data analysis of the proposed model. Findings: The findings reveal that rumination mediates the relationship between abusive supervision and employees' helping behavior. In addition, the results show that higher levels of psychological flexibility negatively moderate the relationship between abusive supervision and employees' helping behaviors through mediation. Practical implications: This study elucidates how and when abusive supervision deters helping behavior among employees and provides useful guidelines for banking/university's administration to understand harmful consequences of abusive supervision and take appropriate policy measures to lessen their harmful effects upon employees. Originality/value: By proposing a moderated mediation model, this study discovers rumination as a key mediator that links abusive supervision to employees' helping behaviors and identifies the role of psychological flexibility in diminishing the negative impacts of abusive supervision upon employees' helping behaviors through rumination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considering the nutritional qualities of fruits, apricot-date bars were developed at the Institute of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Sargodha, Sargodha, Pakistan during the year 2009-10. For this purpose date paste, dried apricot paste, skim milk powder, roasted gram flour, peanuts and sodium chloride were used in different four propotions. The results indicated that water activity, colour and texture of bars were affected significantly with the addition of dried apricots. Moisture was also significantly affected which ranged from 17.14 to 19.21 percent and 71.49 to 72.81 percent whereas crude fat, crude protein, crude fibre, nitrogen free extract and ash were not significantly affected with the addition of apricot paste. The quantities of sodium, calcium, iron, manganese and zinc remained unchanged, whereas potassium increased significantly in these treatments. In-vitro protein and starch digestibilities ranged from 85.90 to 86.88 percent and 0.238 to 0.244 mg/g, respectively. There was no change observed in the quantities of free fatty acids. The total phenolic contents ranged from 225.20 to 263.84mg/100g. Microbiological analysis revealed that these bars were in the safe limits in bacterial and mold loads and might be stored for longer time. The studies further revealed that potential exists to produce economical fruit bars with commercial value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The diets of the barn owl (Tyto alba) and the spotted owlet (Athene brama) inhabiting the periphery of the Cholistan Desert at Ahmedpur East, southern Punjab were compared. Pellets of the two owl species were analyzed to learn more about their diets. The barn owl mainly consumed Suncus murinus (60.2%), birds (24.1%) and rodents (12.7%), while the spotted owlet depended on Mus species (36.8%), Suncus murinus (20.1%), birds (14.1%), reptiles (8.9%) and insects (6.7%) for its food. There was a low degree of food overlap of the two owls among the seasons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hepatitis B and C are the most common blood-borne liver infections worldwide. According to the recent estimates, 270–300 million people worldwide are infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) and more than 2 billion people have been infected with the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Transmission of these viruses is carried out by exposure to infectious blood or body fluids containing blood. Methods: Five-hundred and ninety (290 males and 300 females, 5–65 years) internally displaced persons (IDPs) from Swat area of northern Pakistan were screened for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and anti-HCV antibodies using immune-chromatography kits. The subjects, positive for virus-related antibody, were further confirmed for viral RNA (for HCV) and DNA (for HBV) in the blood by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification. The virus of PCR-confirmed HCV-individuals was further genotyped and the prevalence of HCV infection was determined with respect to age, sex, history of exposure to blood or surgical operation and different types of liver diseases. Results: The HCV infection was found to be the predominant liver infection in the population which was 91% of the positive cases, as against 9% of HBV. Among the HCV-positive subjects (68% females, 32% males) 56% were asymptomatic. No co-incidence of HBV and HCV was found in any subject. Genotype 3a was the dominant strain of HCV followed by 2a > 3b > 1b > 1a, 2b. Conclusion: The viral hepatitis among the apparently healthy population of a relatively natural and pollution free environment refers to an alarming condition about liver infections, particularly of HCV, in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was carried out in the Post Graduate Laboratory, National Institute of Food Science and Technology, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad during the year 2010. Twenty one date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) varieties were investigated at tamr stage for their physical characteristics, textural profile analysis and total phenolic content. Significant differences were recorded in the physical characteristics, textural profile and total phenolic content among varieties. Maximum fruit weight (13.89g), flesh weight (12.89g), fruit length (4.56cm) and volume (11.94cm³) were recorded in Dhakki. Edible/non-edible ratio of different date varieties ranged from 1.94 (Desi simple) to 14.50 (Aseel Sindh). Maximum water activity was found in Desi basray (0.482) and minimum in Karblain (0.323). The highest peak force of puncture test as an index of hardness during textural profile analysis was recorded in Dora (59.64g) and maximum value of fruit colour was observed in Desi red small (149.10CTn). Phenolic content ranged from 296.67 to 140.67mg (GAE) /100g fresh fruit weight. The results conclude that Dhakki, Aseel Sindh and Hillavi are suitable for table purpose while other varieties are suitable for processing and converting into date products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three cereals viz. oats (Avena sativa L.), barley (Hordeum vulgare) and wheat (Triticum aestivum) were evaluated in pure stands as well as in mixtures of 50: 50 ratios with common vetch (Vicia sativa L.) under rainfed conditions of Pothowar to address the problem of nutritious green fodder for livestock. The experiment was sown during second week of October, 2007 in a randomized complete block design at Koont Research Farm, Pir Mehr Ali Shah-Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan. The results revealed that oatsvetch mixture performed better at all growth stages under rainfed conditions of Pothowar in terms of green and dry matter yields. By this mixture, 35.06 tons per hectare green fodder and 9.29 ton per hectare dry matter yield was obtained which was 17 and 19 percent higher than oats pure stand, respectively. Similarly, it was calculated that overall oats-vetch mixture yielded 63 and 78 percent higher dry matter than barley-vetch and wheat-vetch, respectively. So oats-vetch mixture can be recommended for higher biomass under rainfed conditions of Pothowar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seventeen maize entries comprising advanced breeding lines and commercial varieties alongwith a check "Soan-3" were evaluated at Agricultural Research Institute, Dera Ismail Khan, Pakistan during 2008. Analysis of variance revealed that maize varieties differed significantly for days to 50 percent silking, plant height and grain yield per hectare. Varieties Sahiwal-2002 and AZC-3 took maximum days (56) to 50 percent silking whereas variety EV-1097 took minimum days (44). The highest plant height (222 cm) was attained by Margala and Sahiwal-2002 against the lowest (155 cm) by Agaiti-2002. Maize variety EV- 5098 produced higher grain yield (5.804 t/ha) whereas variety AZC-3 produced the lowest (3.332 t/ha). Islamabad Gold and Sahiwal-2002 produced significantly at par grain yield with the check. The maize varieties showed wide genetic back ground and hence yield ranged from 3.332 to 5.804 tons per hectare. Varieties EV-5098, Sahiwal-2002 and Islamabad Gold were found as the most promising. These varieties possess the potential to increase average maize grain yield in D.I.Khan region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was conducted in Soil Chemistry Section, Ayub Agricultural Research Institute, Faisalabad, Pakistan. The objective was to assess the micronutrients status (Zn, Cu, Fe, Mn and B) of soils under mango orchards of Multan and Lodhran districts. For this purpose 540 soil samples were collected from all tehsils of two districts. After completing the analysis, soils were classified into low, marginal and adequate levels of these nutrients. The results indicated that in case of Zn at upper surface (0-15 cm) 74, 90, 86, 100 percent soil samples were low (< 1.0 mg/kg) in Multan, Shujabad, Lodhran and Kehror Pakka tehsils and 95 and 62 percent samples in Jalalpur Pirwala and Dunyapur tehsils, respectively. At lower depth (15-30 cm) 95-100 percent samples were found low. In case of B at upper surface, 8, 17, 61, 25, 25 and 39 percent soil samples were low (<0.45 mg/kg) in Multan, Shujabad, Jalalpur Pirwala, Lodhran, Kehror Pakka and Dunyapur tehsils, respectively whereas 92, 83, 63, 69, 69 and 43 percent soil samples were at marginal level (0.45-1.0 mg/kg) in these tebsils. At lower depth more than 50 percent soil samples were found at marginal level (Multan80, Shujabad59, Jalalpur Pirwala54, Lodhran50, Kehror Pakka57 and Dunyapur49 %) while 20, 10, 27, 48, 30 and 23 percent were found adequate in above mentioned tehsils, respectively. Remaining soil samples had low level. B of Cu and Mn concentration was adequate in soil whereas Fe concentratin was at marginal level (2.0-4.0 mg/kg) in 3, 6, 3 and 3 percent samples in tehsils Jalalpur Pirwala, Lodhran, Kehror Pakka and Dunyapur. Other soil samples had adequate level of Fe (>4.0 mg/kg). [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 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 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]

Objective: To analyze the presence of osteoporosis and osteopenia in post-menopausal breast cancer patients receiving hormonal therapy. Study Design: Comparative Cross-sectional Study. Place and Duration of Study: Oncology Department, Combined Military Hospital Rawalpindi Pakistan, from Dec 2020 to May 2021. Methodology: This study was conducted on 200 post-menopausal female breast cancer patients who had been taking Aromatase inhibitors for more than six months. All the study participants underwent a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan to measure bone mineral density. As a result, they were classified as having osteoporosis or osteopenia based on bone mineral density. In addition, age, duration of therapy, tumour stage and molecular subtypes of breast cancer were correlated with the presence of osteopenia/osteoporosis in the study participants. Results: A total of 200 post-menopausal patients with breast cancer using hormonal therapy for more than six months were included in the final analysis. The mean age of the patients was 56.331 ± 6.744 years. In addition, 55 (22.5%) patients had normal bone mineral density, 92 (46%) had osteopenia, while 53 (26.5%) had osteoporosis on a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan. Molecular subtypes of the tumour, the advancing age of patients and the long duration of hormonal therapy were statistically significantly associated with the presence of osteopenia/osteoporosis (p-value <0.05) in our study participants. Conclusion: Considerable number of post-menopausal patients with advanced breast cancer taking hormonal therapy showed the presence of osteopenia and osteoporosis. Molecular subtyping, the advanced age of patients and the long duration of hormonal therapy significantly predicted osteopenia/osteoporosis in patients included in our study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]