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Presently, the agricultural system and crops related to the environment are highly vulnerable to climatic variations in many regions of the world. Major crops are under serious threat due to floods and temperature variations in Pakistan. There is a serious need to disseminate climate smart agricultural knowledge for the farmers of Pakistan at urgency level for fast adoption of Climate Smart Agricultural Practices (CSAPs). This study mainly focuses on the adoption of CSAPs and associated constraints, which restrain the adoption rate. We selected 400 cotton farmers using a formula suggested by Kesley and Kumar (1989) for an unknown population from two very important cotton producing districts (Khanewal and Vehari). Interview schedule was used for data collection. The study explored that institutional role is very critical for adoption of CSAPs. In addition, economic barriers, lack of trained extension field staff, lack of training opportunities and lack of climate smart agricultural technologies and knowledge for cotton growers are the main constraints in the adoption of CSAPs. Hence, awareness, provision of timely information and training, continuous repeated coordination with cotton growers and reducing all constraints are the keys for approval of CSAPs to deal with climate variations. Policy recommendations included: government should provide policy support for research and development activities focusing on CSAPs. Government should provide support to extension services in order to educate and train farmers for CSAPs. The adoption of CSAPs may require additional financial resources. The government should provide financial support to farmers to encourage them to adopt these practices. This can be done through subsidies, grants and other financial incentives. Climate change is leading to water scarcity in Pakistan and this is affecting agricultural productivity. The government should promote water conservation practices such as rain water harvesting, drip irrigation and water efficient crops to ensure sustainable use of water resources. The adoption of CSAPs requires strong collaboration and partnerships among the stakeholders, including government, farmers, research institutions, NGOs and private sector. The government should promote collaboration and partnerships to facilitate the adoption of CSAPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thalassemia is one of the most prevalent genetic disorders worldwide. The present study aimed to explore the mutational spectrum of all hemoglobin (HB) encoding genes and to identify the potentially damaging and pathogenic variants in the beta (β)-thalassemia major patients and thalassemia minor carriers of Southern Punjab, Pakistan. A total of 49 β-thalassemia major patients and 49 carrier samples were screened for the identification of HBA1, HBA2, HBB, HBD, HBE1, HBG1 and HBG2 variants by NGS. PCR was performed for the amplification of HB encoding genes and the amplified product of 13 patients and 7 carrier samples were processed for the Sanger sequencing. Various bioinformatics tools and databases were employed to reveal the functional impact and pathogenicity potential of the observed variants. Results depicted a total of 20 variants of HB-related genes by NGS and 5 by Sanger sequencing in thalassemia patients. While 20 variants by NGS and 3 by Sanger were detected in carriers. Few known genetic variants of HB-encoding genes are being reported for the first time in Pakistani thalassemia patients and carriers. However, two novel HBB variants c.375A>C (p.P125P) and c.*61T>G and a novel variant of HBE1 (c.37A>T (p.T13S)) were also documented. Pathogenicity analysis predicted the pathogenic potential of HBB variants (c.47G>A (p.W16*), c.27-28insG (p. S10fs), and c.92+5G>C) for β thalassemia. The study of functional impact indicated that these HBB variants result in the premature termination of translation leading to the loss of functional β-globin protein. It is therefore suggested that the pathogenic HBB variants, identified during present study, can be employed for the diagnosis, carrier screening, and planning therapy of thalassemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the core risk factors of Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) diseases at D. G. Khan and Rajanpur districts of Punjab, Pakistan. Study Design: Cross Sectional Case Control study. Setting: A sample of 1553 individuals including two categories, ENT Diseased (Case) and ENT diseased free (Control) respondents including both males and females was collected from different hospitals of D. G Khan and Rajanpur Districts. Period: June 2021 to June 2022. Material & Methods: Data for this study have been collected by formulating a questionnaire. That questionnaire was then completed by face to face interviewing. Chi-squared test is used to check the association between the assumed risk factors and ENT diseases. Odds ratios are calculated to measure the strength of association between assumed risk factors and ENT diseases. Looking at the dichotomous nature of the response variable, a binary logistic regression model is also applied to assess the overall influence of potential risk factors on developing the ENT diseases. Results: In our sample of 1553 respondents, 41.47% are females and 58.53% are males. The percentage of clinically diagnosed ENT diseased patients is 54.92% and those of controlled ones is 45.08%. Among the diseased respondents, 57% have ear disease, 19.2% have nose disease and 23.8% have throat disease. Age, education, family status, family system, marital status, slow physical activity, smoking, Naswar, Paan, family history, occupation, work place, water, ventilation, nutrition and tea are found to be the most significant risk factors of developing the ENT diseases. Conclusions: The occurrence of ENT diseases can be reduced by giving the awareness to the people about its risk factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In cotton growing areas, short duration sunflower hybrids are desired. The sunflower hybrid ORISUN-675 was developed as short duration sunflower hybrid with better yield in 2016. ORISUN-675 was the outcome of hybridization between CMS line ORI-01 and a restorer line RL-72. The initial cross was attempted during 2016 at farm area of Oilseeds Research Institute, Faisalabad. Later on, this hybrid was tested at various levels like on station trial and multilocation trails for yield and stability evaluation and proved its worth against Hysun-33, NKS-278 and AGSUN-5264. The Station Yield Trial was conducted during 2017 at Oilseeds Research Institute, Faisalabad and Micro Yield Trial during 2018 at various locations in Punjab. National Uniform Sunflower Yield Trials were conducted during 2019 and 2020 at different ecological zones of Pakistan under the supervision of Pakistan Agricultural Research Council. All yield trials showed outstanding results of ORISUN-675 in terms of yield and quality against check hybrids. Mean yield of sunflower hybrids showed that ORISUN-675 had the highest average seed yield of 2636 kg/ha under various locations with the highest seed yield of 3367 kg/ha at Rajanpur district followed by the district D.I. Khan with the seed yield of 3248 kg/ha. It also showed good results against disease infestation and attack of insect pests. It has a very good oil quality with excellent ratio of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids. Stability studies at various locations of Pakistan also showed the worth of this hybrid. Moreover, this hybrid showed very good results at southern Punjab (Cotton zone) which makes it suitable for cotton sunflower cotton cropping scheme. On the basis of yield and stability evaluation, ORISUN-675 was recommended by the Variety Evaluation Committee (VEC) of Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) during 2020 for general cultivation in whole Pakistan whereas it is approved by Punjab Seed Council (PSC) for general cultivation in Punjab during 2021. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bovine anaplasmosis is a tick-borne disease caused by an obligate intercellular Gram-negative bacterium named Anaplasma (A.) marginale. In this study, we report the seasonal prevalence, potentially associated risk factors and phylogeny of A. marginale in cattle of three different breeds from Multan District, Southern Punjab, Pakistan. A total of 1020 blood samples (crossbred, n = 340; Holstein Friesian, n = 340; and Sahiwal breed, n = 340) from apparently healthy cattle were collected on a seasonal basis from March 2020 to April 2021. Based on PCR amplification of the msp5 partial sequence, overall, the A. marginale prevalence rate was estimated at 11.1% (113/1020) of the analyzed cattle samples. According to seasons, the highest prevalence rate was observed in autumn (16.5%), followed by winter (10.6%) and summer (9.8%), and the lowest was recorded in the spring (7.5%). The crossbred and Sahiwal cattle were the most susceptible to A. marginale infection, followed by Holstein Friesian cattle (7.9%). Analysis of epidemiological factors revealed that cattle reared on farms where dairy animals have tick loads, dogs coinhabit with cattle and dogs have tick loads have a higher risk of being infected with A. marginale. In addition, it was observed that white blood cell, lymphocyte (%), monocyte (%), hematocrit, mean corpuscular hemoglobin and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentrations were significantly disturbed in A. marginale-positive cattle compared with non-infested cattle. Genetic analysis of nucleotide sequences and a phylogenetic study based on msp5 partial sequencing demonstrated that this gene appears to be highly conserved among our isolates and those infecting apparently healthy cattle from geographically diverse worldwide regions. The presented data are crucial for estimating the risk of bovine anaplasmosis in order to develop integrated control policies against bovine anaplasmosis and other tick-borne diseases infecting cattle in the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infestation of weeds is one of the most threatening element encountered by the agricultural crop productivity. Weeds are those unwanted plants which compete with the grown crop for getting nutrients, space and light resultantly reducing the crop yield. Function and design of different cropping systems play very significant role related to composition of different weed communities. Considering the prevailing scenario, this study was planned and conducted at Institute of Agricultural Extension, Education and Rural Development, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Pakistan during 2018-19, to analyze awareness and adoption level of farmers regarding chemical and non-chemical weed management practices along with factors responsible for nonadoption of recommended practices under cotton-wheat cropping system in Punjab, Pakistan. District Sahiwal was selected purposively to serve the objectives of the study. A total sample of 130 farmers was taken using multistage sampling technique. A reliable, validated and pre-tested interview schedule was used for the purpose of data collection. Data were analyzed using SPSS. Results revealed that adoption level was found comparatively less than the awareness level of the respondents regarding weed control measures. Among different factors hampering the adoption of recommended weed control measures, higher cost of weedicides and adulteration in weedicides were ranked on top with mean value of 4.10 and 4.00, respectively followed by high labour cost and hesitation for taking risk on sole crop with mean value of 3.86 and 3.8, respectively. Lack of capital and resources was another challenge confronted by the adoption process. Gap was identified regarding adoption of recommended weed control measures and it was concluded that there is dire need to effectively ensure proper supply of adulteration free and low cost weedicides subsidized by the government. It was also suggested that there is need to train the farming community regarding integrated weed management practices. Chemical control was found most commonly used practice among the farmers therefore, balanced application of chemical measures and proper training about spraying methods at appropriate time are some important measures to be addressed in this regard. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Use of older age seedlings of rice often decreased the yield in transplanted rice systems. However, the response of rice seedlings at different ages in transplanting system under alternate wetting and drying (AWD) is not well documented. Therefore, this study was endeavored to identify the suitable seedling age of fine rice cultivars in transplanted rice systems under AWD. Four seedling age treatments (20, 25, 30, and 35 days), and three fine rice cultivars (Chenab, Punjab, Kissan basmati) were arranged under randomized complete block design (RCBD). Two years (2017–2018) of studies demonstrated that overall younger seedlings (20 days old) increased rice growth phase (days taken to reach physiological maturity) after transplantation with less mortality rate, and quantified with higher water productivity. Younger seedlings (20 days old) produced 14.69% and 13.36% longer panicle, 19.36% and 18% more filled grains panicle−1 in both years (2017 and 2018) respectively as compared to the older seedlings (35 days old). Moreover, younger seedling (20 days) produced 22% and 22.92% kg ha−1 more yield in comparison to (35 days) older seedling in both years, respectively. However, cultivars also had significant differences in growth and yield production, and Chenab basmati showed vigorous growth and produced higher yield than Punjab and Kissan basmati. Furthermore, agronomic traits such as, productive tillers, panicle length, number of branches, and filled grains in panicle significantly contributed for grain yield formation. Overall, our results revealed that younger seedlings of fine rice could be a better option to obtain optimum fine rice yield under AWD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was conducted to find out the role of organic metabolites on the occurrence of dystocia in Nili-Ravi buffaloes of three different agro-ecological zones of Punjab, Pakistan. Serum samples of healthy control (150) and dystocia affected (23) buffaloes were collected and subjected to biochemical analyses to determine metabolites (Urea, Total Proteins, Albumin, Globulins and Albumin-Globulin ratio) by using commercially available kits. The finding indicated significantly higher (P<0.05) levels of serum urea in dystocia affected buffaloes from southern irrigated zone (259.3 ± 71.4 mg/dl) and arid zone (276.2 ± 70.7 mg/dl) while non-significant difference was observed in northern irrigated zone (106.8± 1.03 mg/dl), in comparison to the healthy control buffaloes of the same region (95.6 ± 4.54 mg/dl, 63.9 ± 4.68 mg/dl and 82.1 ± 4.37 mg/dl) respectively. While serum total proteins and albumin concentrations were significantly higher (P<0.05) in healthy control buffaloes in comparison to dystocia affected buffaloes of northern irrigated zone while non-significant difference was observed in southern irrigated zone and arid zone buffaloes in comparison to the dystocia affected buffaloes of the southern irrigated and arid zones. Whereas the serum globulin concentration of dystocia affected buffaloes of northern irrigated zone was found to be significantly lower (P<0.05) compared to healthy controls while no significant difference was found among the dystocia affected and healthy control buffaloes of southern irrigated and arid zone. Similarly, the albumin to globulin ratio was found to be significantly lower (P<0.05) among healthy control as compared to dystocia affected buffaloes of northern irrigated zone while no significant difference was found among the dystocia affected and healthy control buffaloes of the southern irrigated and arid zone. The present study concludes that the deviations of serum metabolites could be useful to predict the reproductive health status of the Nili-Ravi Buffaloes of Punjab, Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To analyze the frequency and diagnosis of tuberculosis in cervical lymphadenopathy in a tertiary care hospital Material and Methods: This descriptive study was carried out from July 2016 to July 2019 in the ENT and Head & Neck Surgery department, Kuwait Teaching Hospital Peshawar. Patients with enlarged cervical lymph nodes for more than four to six weeks duration and over 12-years of age were considered. FNAC, Chest X-ray, complete blood picture/erythrocyte sedimentation rate was performed in all patients while excisional biopsy was performed on patients in whom FNAC showed in-conclusive results. Sputum analysis was performed on patients whose FNAC and excisional biopsy showed cervical tuberculosis. Results: 149 patients were studied, of which 96 (64.42%) were males and 53 (35.58%) were females age between 12 to 65 years old. Mean age was 35.2+16.6 years. 52 (34.89%) patients had single lymph node enlargement and bilateral multiple lymph nodes were involved in 33 (22.14%) patients. 46 (30.87%) had matted lymph node and infected lymph node were present in 18 (12.08%) patients. Family history of pulmonary tuberculosis were positive in 17 (10.06%) patients. 62 (41.61%) patients were from Kashmir, 55 (36.91%) were from KPK and from Punjab 32 (21.47%) cases. Constitutional symptoms were present in 43 (28.83%) cases. Conclusion: Diagnosing tuberculosis lymphadenopathy requires a high index of suspicion. The disease is more common in young-middle age group. FNAC is easily available and a relatively uncomplicated way to diagnose tuberculus cervical lymphadenopathy however a negative result does not exclude the diagnosis. Excisional biopsy can be performed to establish a diagnosis. Patients who have TB of head and neck must be investigated to exclude pulmonary tuberculosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Consumption pattern of cooked rice varies from individual to individual owing to their habitual perceptions. In this context, information about the cooking and eating quality attributes of rice cultivars grown in Pakistan may be helpful for the consumers for their personal selection as well as export purposes. The objective of the current study was to evaluate the quality attributes of six rice cultivars grown in major rice growing areas of the Punjab, Pakistan along with certified cultivars of Rice Research Institute Kala Shah Kaku. These cultivars were characterized for their physical, chemical, pasting and cooking characteristics. Mean values showed greater variations among the brown and white rice samples for peak viscosity (701±0.32 to 786±0.19RVU), set back viscosity (2038±0.46 to 2265±0.49RVU), break down viscosity (224±0.46 to 279±0.49RVU), final viscosity (2746±0.49 to 2258±0.50RVU), kernel elongation ratio (2.65±1.15 to 2.97±1.30), volume expansion ratio (3.47±0.37 to 4.13±0.35) and water absorption ratio (3.21±0.29 to 3.57±0.19). Eating quality of cooked rice samples showed maximum preference of white rice samples due to better color, aroma, taste, texture. This was might be due to routine consumption of white rice in Pakistan as compared to brown rice. The variations in characteristics of brown and white fractions of cultivars from various locations were might be due to climatic, agronomic and other agricultural practices adopted during the rice cropping season as well as rice processing conditions. It is concluded from the current study that Basmati varieties especially grown in popular areas for rice cultivation are considered best for processors, consumers as well as exporters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to develop an integrated agricultural drought index (IADI) that incorporates multiple remote sensing-based agricultural drought indices, considering variations in climate and land use at a local scale in ten different agro-ecological zones (AEZs) of Pakistan from 2000 to 2020. The IADI focuses on soil moisture stress to vegetation, utilizing the soil moisture condition index (SMCI) derived from various soil moisture datasets. The correlation between SMCI and the Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI) is assessed at different time scales (1-, 3-, 6-, and 12-month) using Pearson correlation coefficient (r). Results indicate that SMCI ERA5-Land is superior to others and is selected to develop the IADI. To account for local variations in climate and land use, agricultural drought indices (ADIs) are calculated on a 0.25°×0.25° grids. These ADIs are then averaged over a 3×3 window and analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM) to understand the causal relationship between SMCI ERA5-Land and ADIs. Temperature condition index (TCI) and vegetation health index (VHI) demonstrate a significant causal relationship with SMCI ERA5-Land in most AEZs, while the relationship between temperature-vegetation dryness index (TVDI) and vegetation condition index (VCI) with SMCI ERA5-Land is insignificant across the AEZs except in northern Pakistan. The dominance of land surface temperature (LST)-derived indices in most AEZs highlights the role of temperature in drought onset and propagation. To develop the IADI, Bayesian principal component analysis (BPCA) is employed to calculate dynamic weights between the selected ADIs and SMCI ERA5-Land. The distribution of BPCA weights exhibits extreme variability across different AEZs, with some windows being sensitive to LST-derived ADIs and others to NDVI-derived ADIs. The average BPCA weights for VCI, TCI, VHI, and TVDI range from 9.42%–23.05%, 23.20–49.83%, 13.00–31.08%, and 16.38–25.50%, respectively. The IADI demonstrates the best fit with TCI and VHI, while showing good agreement with SPEI, VCI, and TVDI. The correlation between IADI and TCI/VHI ranges from 0.62/0.72–0.94/0.97. Furthermore, ordinary least square regression (OLSR) is used to assess the accuracy of IADI, ADIs, and SPEI in analyzing the impact of drought on wheat/maize yield at the district level in Punjab province, Pakistan. OLSR analysis reveals the dominance of IADI, followed by VHI, in analyzing the role of drought on crop yield. For example, in Rajanpur district, one unit increase in drought severity results in an 11.94 t/ha decrease in maize yield, with IADI explaining 59% of the variations in maize yield. Similarly, one unit increase in drought severity leads to a 7.22 t/ha decrease in wheat yield, with IADI explaining 49% of the variations in wheat yield. Overall, results indicate that the developed IADI effectively captures agricultural drought with high spatial and temporal resolutions across different agro-ecological zones, providing valuable insights for monitoring agricultural drought in data-scarce regions. • We developed an integrated agricultural drought index (IADI) from RS-based DIs. • Structural Equation Modeling is used to analyze causal relationship of SMCI-DIs. • Dynamic weights estimated from BPCA integrated the impact of climate and land use. • IADI can efficiently represent soil moisture stress to vegetation. • IADI performed better than other DIs in analyzing drought impact on crop yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To gauge the recent breadth of MDR E. coli along with antibiogram of carbapenemase producing (CP) E. coli among children from an institute which receives patients from all over Punjab. Methods: The bacterial strains of E. coli isolated from various specimens of patients were collected from April 2017 to August 2018 and processed using standard biochemical tests and API 20E system (bioMerieux). Phenotypic screening for CP E. coli was done by the modified Hodge test, whereas antibiotic susceptibility testing was done with Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion technique. Results: Total of 6,468 bacterial strains were isolated, out of which 1,552 (24%) were E. coli. Carbapenem resistance was observed in 245 (16%) strains, amongst which 113 (46%) were confirmed to be CP. E. coli isolated from males were higher as compared to females (p<0.05). Majority of the organisms were isolated from blood (37.2%) samples. The hospital discharged about 65% of patients, while 23% left against medical advice. Overall MDR amongst E. coli was 93.26%. Colistin sulphate (15.9%) and nitrofurantoin (16.8%) showed the most efficacy followed by amikacin (15%) and fosfomycin (10.6%). Conclusion: The isolation of high number of MDR E. coli amongst the paediatric patients is worrisome, which could serve as a potential source of horizontal genes transfer to other genera. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tanneries are the primary source of toluene pollution in the environment and toluene due to its hazardous effects has been categorized as persistent organic pollutant. Present study was initiated to trace out metabolic fingerprints of three toluene-degrading bacteria isolated from tannery effluents of Southern Punjab. Using selective enrichment and serial dilution methods followed by biochemical, molecular and antibiotic resistance analysis, isolated bacteria were subjected to metabolomics analysis. GC–MS/LC–MS analysis of bacterial metabolites helped to identify toluene transformation products and underlying pathways. Three toluene-metabolizing bacteria identified as Bacillus paralicheniformis strain KJ-16 (IUBT4 and IUBT24) and Brevibacillus agri strain NBRC 15538 (IUBT19) were found tolerant to toluene and capable of degrading toluene. Toluene-degrading potential of these isolates was detected to be IUBT4 (10.35 ± 0.084 mg/h), IUBT19 (14.07 ± 3.14 mg/h) and IUBT24 (11.1 ± 0.282 mg/h). Results of GC–MS analysis revealed that biotransformation of toluene is accomplished not only through known metabolic routes such as toluene 3-monooxygenase (T3MO), toluene 2-monooxygenase (T2MO), toluene 4-monooxygenase (T4MO), toluene methyl monooxygenase (TOL), toluene dioxygenase (Tod), meta- and ortho-ring fission pathways. But additionally, confirmed existence of a unique metabolic pathway that involved conversion of toluene into intermediates such as cyclohexene, cyclohexane, cyclohexanone and cyclohexanol. LC–MS analysis indicated the presence of fatty acid amides, stigmine, emmotin A and 2, 2-dinitropropanol in supernatants of bacterial cultures. As the isolated bacteria transformed toluene into relatively less toxic molecules and thus can be preferably exploited for the eco-friendly remediation of toluene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The word 'women empowerment' is a recent term in the development field. The rise in feminist activist since mid- 20th century has given a considerable hype to the subject which has become a center of interest for many researchers. The paper investigates the effect of women empowerment on household decision making in Pakistan with special reference to the cases of seventeen women in Punjab. Qualitative research techniques has been utilized and interview guide has been used as a research instrument and the results demonstrate the importance of education and social awareness as primary factors that contribute towards autonomy of women in household decision making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mother nature creates a delicate balance between living and non-living elements of the environment known as ecosystem and biodiversity. Any disruption in this balance may result catastrophic effect on the environment including impact on plant, animal and human life. Hence, efforts to maintain a healthy biodiversity through conservation are needed. Since the life is passing through the time of global warming and climate variation, new issues for farming community are on the rise. These issues are related to protection of natural environment and biodiversity which is one of the critical problems encounter by farmers of Pakistan. It is vitally important to take proactive measures to enact timely solutions to this issue, and avoid further losses in biodiversity. The present study was aimed to determine the awareness level of the respondents regarding biodiversity conservation. The results showed that farmers were relatively aware of regarding species diversity; however, they do not know the modern techniques to uphold crop and species diversity. Biodiversity concept of farmers is at very basic level and they know only limited conventional ways to maintain it. The statistical analysis showed weak significant association between factors responsible for biodiversity loss and two types of biodiversity since X² (3) = 11.338, p = 0.010 and concluded that all factors are not equally responsible for loss in both types of biodiversity. Results showed that biodiversity conservation has its role in agricultural development. By conserving biodiversity, agricultural production can be increased. The results from Exploratory Factor analysis showed that by retaining three factors, the explained variation goes up to 54%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to abide the regulations put forth by World Health Organization (WHO), it is imperative to employ innovative technique that can eliminate arsenic from ground drinking water. The effective sorbents are desperately needed to remove arsenic from the water. In this work, rutile TiO 2 surfaces were tuned with nominal ratios of palladium and rubidium oxide cocatalysts via co-precipitation method. Firstly, As (III) contents were converted to As (V) by photooxidation reaction (POR) and then As (V) contents were removed by adsorption over Pd/Rb 2 O@TiO 2 surfaces. The morphology, optical characteristics and structural features were obtained by XRD, Raman, UV-Vis/DRS, SEM, PL and TGA analysis. The surface characteristics and chemical compositions of Pd/Rb 2 O@TiO 2 were obtained using TEM and XPS analysis. Arsenic contaminated water samples were collected from Hasilpur Tehsil (Punjab/Pakistan). The mechanism of As (III) to As (V) conversion, adsorption kinetic for pseudo-second-order (R2꞊0.99919), and the Langmuir adsorption isotherm kinetic model (R2꞊0.98906) provided the significant clarification. Spontaneous arsenic adsorption has been determined (ΔG=−12.52 KJ/mol), which addressed the substantial columbic interactions between adsorbate and substrate. Due to non-toxic nature, dual feautres (photocatalysis and adsorption), easy accesability and low cost, the utilization of titania based sorbents appear to be viable options for arsenic removal technologies. The results of this study depict that, Pd/Rb 2 O@TiO 2 can effectively remove 99% arsenic from contaminated water. [Display omitted] • Modified rutile TiO 2 surfaces with nominal ratios of Pd/Rb 2 O cocatalysts via co-precipitation technique. • Influence of Pd/Rb 2 O loading over TiO 2 surfaces were characterized by XRD, Raman, UV-Vis/DRS, SEM,TEM, XPS, and TGA. • As (III) contents were converted to As (V) by photooxidation reaction. • Adsorption of As (V) was examined by adsorption-isotherm models. • Langmuir isotherm model (R2 = 0.98906) and pseudo-second-order (R2꞊0.99919) provided significant clarifications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was conducted to know whether bulk inflow of Non Emergency Calls (NECs) acts as an independent predictor for depression in call handlers of Rescue 1122, Punjab, Pakistan. Forty five (45) call handlers were recruited from evening shift of 9 districts. Similarly, same-sized control group was made out of field rescuers. The groups were compared for rate and severity level of depression using Beck's Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II; Beck, Steer, & Brown, 1996). Probable predictors (except workplace stress) for depression in call handlers were evaluated through risk estimates. For workplace stress, a purposefully developed closeended Workplace Stress Questionnaire including two subscales i.e. Non Emergency call and Control Room Environment of 30 items each was administrated. Twenty nine (64.4%) subjects of study group reported depression on BDI. Consequently, the same group had significantly higher mean depression score than control (18.2 vs. 12.6; p = .00). The scores also showed insignificant association with any of the probable predictors (demographic variables) of the call attendees. The respondents perceived more occupational stress against NECs. The findings attract the attention of authorities towards the severity of the concern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rural sector provides a foundation stone for economy of Pakistan. The current concept of rural development is linked to economic welfare of rural people. It involves uplifting of certain indicators of development and satisfying the needs of fragile groups of rural communities. This study examined socio-economic factors of rural life which contribute in economic prosperity. A list of union councils and villages in tehsil Sargodha was obtained from local district office of the Population Welfare Department. All rural families live in tehsil Sargodha served as population in the study. Tehsil Sargodha was selected purposively. Of the 62 rural union councils, four were selected purposively and from each selected union council two villages were selected purposively. Hence, from each village 15 respondents were selected randomly which makes a sample of 120 respondents. During the study, demographic factors such as age, Education, family structure, and professions of the respondents were assessed. Complete regression model was applied with independent factors of educational opportunities, agri-business opportunities and training opportunities. The results were significant at 5% level of significance as F (3, 119) = 140.74; p< 0.05 and explained 78.4% of the variation in dependent factor of job opportunities for the respondents which is responsible for economic prosperity of rural communities. The results from second, third, fourth and fifth objectives respectively indicated that vocational education, cane food or auto workshop businesses, computer related job opportunities, and training in poultry farm management are the core requirements for economic prosperity of rural communities in the area. It is concluded that respondents were keen enough to get maximum opportunities to participate in economic activities in order to get financial independence and to promote rural business in the area. There is a dire need to invest in expert knowledge and vocational training opportunities to bring change in the skills level of the respondents in the study area. It is recommended to create job opportunities by boosting up educational and agri-business opportunities based on the needs, skills and by providing required training for economic wellbeing of the respondents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted in December. 2014 in district Sargodha-Punjab, Pakistan to assess the role of Mobile phone cellular technology for dissemination of information regarding Macrosiphum miscanthi, attack on wheat crop by mobile phone. A sample size of 60 farmers was selected by systematic sampling technique using the available list of the farmers provided by Agricultural Extension Department. The respondents were than randomly assigned into two groups, one group was comprised of experimental group (to whom a set of advisory instructions were sent by mobile phone) and other was control (faceto- face). Two- population independent t-test was applied for comparison of the two methods of instructions. The results of the study revealed that both methods were equally applicable and effective regarding timely transfer of information or knowledge to the farmers for aphid attack on wheat crop. Hence, it is concluded that the goal for creating awareness among farmers for the use of Mobile phone cellular technology is as effective as face-to-face (traditional method) for dissemination of desired information regarding aphid attack on wheat crop. In addition, more respondents may interact with the Extension Field Staff (EFS) by using cellular technology irrespective whether or not EFS are able to reach them physically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial leaf blight (BLB) is a devastating disease of rice caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo), severely affects grain quality and reduces yield in all rice-growing areas of Pakistan. The pathogen is highly dynamic and quickly evolves itself when encountered with new resistant genes, hence, the knowledge about existing virulence range within the pathogen population and availability of corresponding resistance gene source is of immense importance. The present study focused on molecular dissection and evaluating the effectiveness of different resistance gene combinations against Xoo isolates collected from seven major rice-growing districts of Punjab Pakistan. Phenotypic characterization of collected Xoo isolates has shown that all of them were rod-shaped Gram-negative bacteria. However, oryzae species and oryzae pathovar were confirmed in only 22 out of 50 isolates using multiplex PCR. Analysis of loop-mediated isothermal amplification validated the lineage and close relatedness of Pakistani Xoo isolates with the already reported Asian Xoo population. Pathogenicity test on susceptible rice variety Super Basmati has shown that out of twenty-two tested Xoo isolates, four isolates from three different districts fell into the most virulent category with an average lesion length of ≥15 cm. Pathotyping of selected resistant rice lines against Xoo isolates distributed 22 isolates into nine pathotypes based on their interaction with R genes. Current molecular and phenotypic profiling of isolated Pakistani Xoo isolates may serve as a valuable reference for global comparison to manage BLB disease of rice in real-time. • Well identified Xoo isolates from Pakistan may use as reference for global comparison. • Findings showed that LAMP and SNP can be harnessed to generate real time data to map disease incidence across a region. • Pathotyping of isolated strains against selected NIL's will pave a way for the development of region specific resistant varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Multiple factors, both natural and anthropogenic, are driving most of the wild species to the verge of extinction across the globe. In order to conserve these threatened species, various conservation interventions and strategies are adopted, among which is re-introduction of captive stocks of species into the wild habitats where they vanished from. Captive breeding is one of the promising tools for endangered species preservation. Providing social enrichment to the captive stocks is an important step in the management, in particular for stocks, which are aimed for re-introduction. The subject species of this study, i.e., Punjab urial (Ovis vignei punjabiensis) and Indian gazelle (Gazella bennettii) are being reared in captivity with the aim of re-introduction. As there is scarcity of information regarding the behavioral aspects of captive species, especially ungulates, this study aimed at understanding the dynamics of their interactions. The current study reported that Punjab urial, being the dominant species, exerts itself on the submissive and subordinate species, the Indian gazelle. This negative interference can possibly lead to negative ramifications in the form of stress and injuries in the short term, while negative effects on population growth in the long term. Thus, this study recommends separate rearing of these species to eliminate the hazardous competition between them. Natural wildlife habitats are regularly subjected to anthropogenic pressures for different purposes, which are heading the biodiversity towards drastic decline. Several endangered wild species are raised in captivity with the aim of re-introduction. In some instances, mixed herds' rearing approach in captivity is adopted for providing social enrichment to captive stocks; however, the impacts of species on each other are least documented. We tested our prediction that keeping mixed herds of captive wild sheep and antelopes provides adequate social enrichment to the captive stocks: if interspecific interactions are balanced. In the current study, we studied the interspecific competition between mixed herds of captive Punjab urial (Ovis vignei punjabiensis) and Indian gazelle (Gazella bennettii) at Manglot Wildlife Park, Nowshera District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province, Pakistan. We documented the negative effects of behavioural interference by Punjab urial on the feeding behaviour of Indian gazelle. The outcome of the current study revealed that Punjab urial are highly intolerant towards Indian gazelle, with high interference during feeding. Out of the total aggressive events, 77% (N = 1259) of events ended up with win/loss, in which Punjab urial dominated the Indian gazelle 3.5 times. Moreover, lopsided dominance by Punjab urial resulted in increased intraspecific competition among Indian gazelle (p < 0.001). Current study divulged Indian gazelle to be the subordinate species, with less intake of food. Instead of providing social enrichment by heterospecifics, the Punjab urial is negatively affecting the Indian gazelle, therefore, the results of our study discourage the practice of admix captive breeding for wild sheep and antelopes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Extrapulmonary tuberculosis occurring in breast is a rare disorder in West but is still present in developing nations where tuberculosis is endemic. Tuberculous Mastitis (TM) is difficult to diagnose as it has vague clinical symptoms and insufficient radiological findings. The objective of this study was to determine the frequency of tuberculous mastitis by accessible modalities for early diagnosis. Methods: After the Institutional Ethical Board approvals, Pathology laboratory archives and medical records of 5000 patients from Ibn-e-Sina Hospital Research Institute, Multan and Multi Test Laboratory, were retrieved from the year 2008 to 2018. A retrospective analysis of fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) results of patients who presented with breast lumps was carried out. The interpretation of cytological findings and Ziehl Neelsen stained smears was carried out by cytopathologists and microbiologists respectively. Mycobacterium DNA was detected using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in selected cases. Results: Out of 5000 patients, tuberculosis was diagnosed in 264 (5.28%) cases on FNAC. Acid fast bacilli (AFB) positive smears were found in 79.5%patients while 20.45% cases were AFB negative. Among AFB negative smears, 38 cases were further analyzed by PCR, among which 32 (84.2%) cases showed PCR positive results for TM. An increased frequency of TM among all inflammatory breast lesions from 18% in 2008 to 47.19% in 2018 was observed. Conclusion: Tuberculous Mastitis is an uncommon form of extra-pulmonary tuberculosis. It has non-specific clinical, radiological and varied histological findings that often mimic breast abscess or carcinoma. FNAC is essential to guide the patient to further tests including histochemistry and PCR that can be used as more sensitive and time effective detection modalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metals pollution is a major concern on a global scale. The present work evaluated the cadmium (Cd) and copper (Cu) concentrations in water, soil, forages (Avena sativa, Brassica campestris, Medicago sativa, Pennisetum glaucum and Trifolium alexandrinum), milk and hair samples of cows. The samples taken according to trophic levels of the food chain were collected from selected arid regions of Khushab, Punjab, Pakistan and analyzed by an atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The concentrations of Cd and Cu were found in the range of 0.041-0.065 mg/L, 0.585-1.341 mg/L in water; 0.223-2.600 mg/kg, 11.550-15.853 mg/kg in soil; 0.0037-0.682 mg/kg, 3.0917-8.208 mg/kg in fodder; 0.0457-0.137 mg/kg, 0.0167-0.690 mg/L in milk and 0.043-0.112 mg/kg, 0.0427-0.497 mg/kg in hair, respectively. The Cd and Cu concentrations in water, soil, forage, milk and hair were safer compared to standard limits. Bioconcentration factor (BCF), Enrichment factor (EF), Daily Intake of Metal (DIM), and Health Risk Index (HRI) were found less than 1 in Cd and Cu whereas PLI<1 in Cd and PLI>1 in Cu that indicates copper pollution in soil. So, regular monitoring of heavy metals was required to appraise contamination levels in the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A novel RdRp based RT-LAMP assay for naked-eye detection of SARS-COV-2 in clinical as well as environmental samples • Addition of BSA significantly enhances the efficiency and sensitivity of LAMP assay • First time detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in the sewage samples by LAMP assay, from the city of Lahore, Pakistan Novel corona virus SARS-CoV-2, causing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), has become a global health challenge particularly for developing countries like Pakistan where overcrowded cities, inadequate sanitation, little health awareness and poor socioeconomic conditions exist. The SARS-CoV-2 has been known to spread primarily through direct contact and respiratory droplets. However, detection of SARS-CoV-2 in stool and sewage have raised the possibility of fecal-oral mode of transmission. Currently, quantitative reverse-transcriptase PCR (qRT-PCR) is the only method being used for SARS-CoV-2 detection, which requires expensive instrumentation, dedicated laboratory setup, highly skilled staff, and several hours to report results. Considering the high transmissibility and rapid spread, a robust, sensitive, specific and cheaper assay for rapid SARS-CoV-2 detection is highly needed. Herein, we report a novel colorimetric RT-LAMP assay for naked-eye detection of SARS-COV-2 in clinical as well as sewage samples. Our SARS-CoV-2 RdRp-based LAMP assay could successfully detect the virus RNA in 26/28 (93%) of RT-PCR positive COVID-19 clinical samples with 100% specificity (n = 7) within 20 min. We also tested the effect of various additives on the performance of LAMP assay and found that addition of 1 mg/ml bovine serum albumin (BSA) could increase the sensitivity of assay up to 101 copies of target sequence. Moreover, we also successfully applied this assay to detect SARS-CoV-2 in sewage waters collected from those areas of Lahore, a city of Punjab province of Pakistan, declared as virus hotspots by local government. Our optimized LAMP assay could provide a sensitive first tier strategy for SARS-CoV-2 screening and can potentially help diagnostic laboratories in better handling of high sample turnout during pandemic situation. By providing rapid naked-eye SARS-CoV-2 detection in sewage samples, this assay may support pandemic readiness and emergency response to any possible virus outbreaks in future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Molecular prevalence of T. annulata was 11.3% (115/1020) in enrolled cattle. • Sahiwal cattle were the most susceptible to T. annulata infection (13.2%, 45/340), followed by crossbred (11.8%, 40/340) and Holstein Frisian (8.8%, 30/340). • Highest T. annulata prevalence was recorded during the autumn. • Hematological alterations were verified in T. annulata positive cattle. Theileriosis is one of the most frequently reported tick borne diseases in tropical and subtropical regions and leads to annual economic losses, such as the reduced dairy products and increased casualties. Tropical theileriosis is caused by Theileria annulata and the present study was designed to improve our knowledge of Theileria annulata infection in Pakistani cattle. In order to assess the prevalence of Theileria annulata on cattle from Multan district in the Punjab province (Pakistan) according to seasons and other risk factors, a total of 1020 blood samples (340 samples each from cross, Holstein Frisian and Sahiwal breed) were collected between 2020 and 2022. Based on Tams-1 partial sequence amplification, the overall T. annulata prevalence was estimated at 11.3% (115/1020). The highest prevalence was observed in autumn season (14.1%), followed by winter (12.9%), summer (11.4%) and spring (6.7%) season. Sahiwal cattle were most susceptible to T. annulata infection (13.2%) followed by Crossbred (11.8%) and Holstein Frisian (8.8%). Epidemiological factor analysis revealed that female cattle, cattle rose with other dairy animals at farm, tick infested cattle, and cattle raised with dogs infested with ticks were associated with the prevalence of T. annulata. White blood cells, lymphocyte (%), Monocyte (%) hemoglobin, mean cell hemoglobin, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, and platelet count were significantly affected blood parameters in T. annulata positive cattle of all three breeds. Representative partial Tams-1 sequences of four Pakistani T. annulata isolates revealed a single genotype genetically close to those infecting cattle from neighboring countries like Iran, Turkey and Egypt. Longitudinal survey and phylogenetic positioning of T. annulata is recommended for epidemiological correlation, diagnosis and treatment of theileriosis in such an agricultural region of Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As cities grow, the continued development pressure and land-use change of peri-urban areas pose a key challenge for urban planners to address. In the planning of peri-urban areas, the complexity of intertwining physical, environmental, transportation, social and institutional planning dimensions, rapidness of change, demand for precision, and subjectivity of the situations; application of digital planning tools (GIS, PSS and similar) offers a result-oriented and at times the only way out for realistic planning. Like many other countries, peri-urban growth in Pakistan is being managed by the preparation of Peri-Urban Structure Plans (PUSPs). Since, 2009, such plans have been prepared for 36 urban centres of various scale which offer a considerable size to explore the usage pattern of digital planning tools in real-world practice and learn the lessons. Despite wider development and adoption of geographic information systems (GIS) based planning support system (PSS) in spatial planning all over the world, the utilization of digital planning tools in Pakistan to support planning practise has been very limited. This research adopts a case study-based methodology to review the legal requirements of peri-urban plan-making and highlight tasks where digital planning tools can add value. It investigates why there is a paucity of up taking digital planning tools in the spatial plan preparation and documents key stumbling factors. To understand the user's perspective, a survey of (n = 108) urban planners has been undertaken using an online questionnaire. The survey assesses their understanding of the terms and their perception behind the current utilization level of digital planning tools for plan preparation. The analysis reveals a very low familiarity of urban planners with digital planning tools, particularly planning support systems, in Pakistan which is aligned with the findings from technologically advanced countries. The causes behind low utilization have been documented and grouped under three dimensions, adopted from previous research including 'user acceptance', 'instrument quality' and 'diffusion'. Finally, the paper concludes by proposing a framework for bridging the utilization gap to improve spatial planning practice. • Pakistanto become predominantly urban by 2025 • After the Land-use Rules 2009, peri -urban growth in Punjab is managed primarily through peri-urban structure plans (PUSPs) • Currently the utilization of digital planning tools in spatial planning has been very limited in Pakistan • Based on the extensive survey of 108 urban planners, this research documents the reasons behind the low utilization • Finally, it recommends a framework to improve the adoption and utilization of digital planning tools [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]