Soil erosion is a crucial geo-environmental hazard worldwide that affects water quality and agriculture,decreases reservoir storage capacity due to sedimentation,and increases the danger of flooding and landslides.Thu...Soil erosion is a crucial geo-environmental hazard worldwide that affects water quality and agriculture,decreases reservoir storage capacity due to sedimentation,and increases the danger of flooding and landslides.Thus,this study uses geospatial modeling to produce soil erosion susceptibility maps(SESM)for the Hangu region,Khyber Pakhtunkhwa(KPK),Pakistan.The Hangu region,located in the Kohat Plateau of KPK,Pakistan,is particularly susceptible to soil erosion due to its unique geomorphological and climatic characteristics.Moreover,the Hangu region is characterized by a combination of steep slopes,variable rainfall patterns,diverse land use,and distinct soil types,all of which contribute to the complexity and severity of soil erosion processes.These factors necessitate a detailed and region-specific study to develop effective soil conservation strategies.In this research,we detected and mapped 1013 soil erosion points and prepared 12 predisposing factors(elevation,aspect,slope,Normalized Differentiate Vegetation Index(NDVI),drainage network,curvature,Land Use Land Cover(LULC),rainfall,lithology,contour,soil texture,and road network)of soil erosion using GIS platform.Additionally,GIS-based statistical models like the weight of evidence(WOE)and frequency ratio(FR)were applied to produce the SESM for the study area.The SESM was reclassified into four classes,i.e.,low,medium,high,and very high zone.The results of WOE for SESM show that 16.39%,33.02%,29.27%,and 21.30%of areas are covered by low,medium,high,and very high zones,respectively.In contrast,the FR results revealed that 16.50%,24.33%,35.55%,and 23.59%of the areas are occupied by low,medium,high,and very high classes.Furthermore,the reliability of applied models was evaluated using the Area Under Curve(AUC)technique.The validation results utilizing the area under curve showed that the success rate curve(SRC)and predicted rate curve(PRC)for WOE are 82%and 86%,respectively,while SRC and PRC for FR are 85%and 96%,respectively.The validation results revealed that the FR model performance is better and more reliable than the WOE.展开更多
Digital health innovations such as online webinars,websites,blogs,and health apps have been associated with increased sexual and reproductive health(SRH)among the general population.Many studies have been conducted in...Digital health innovations such as online webinars,websites,blogs,and health apps have been associated with increased sexual and reproductive health(SRH)among the general population.Many studies have been conducted in developed countries in the West;however,little research has been conducted in low-income countries,especially in Pakistan.The socioeconomic instability and the government's lack of awareness and knowledge have resulted in no regulations being placed to incorporate telehealth in medicine.The healthcare departments must take into consideration the lifechanging impact of telehealth and the barriers that prevent it in becoming known,to reduce the incidence of unsafe abortions and sexual health practices that prove to be a stigma in society.展开更多
Discoveries of many coal seams at depths by drilling carried by Geological Survey of Pakistan in Sor Range and Harnai Gochina, extended the coal seams at depth which is challenge for mine owners to exploit feasibly. B...Discoveries of many coal seams at depths by drilling carried by Geological Survey of Pakistan in Sor Range and Harnai Gochina, extended the coal seams at depth which is challenge for mine owners to exploit feasibly. Bed to bed gypsum samplings (and their chemical analyses) of huge gypsum deposits from Sulaiman foldbelt is a base for industrialist and also planers to develop cement and gypsum industries to increase export and foreign exchange for the development of area and Pakistan. Low and high grade sedimentary iron deposits, silica sand and uranium host rocks and their extensions in Sulaiman and Kirthar foldbelts are presented. Anomalies of a few base metals arise as a result of geochemical exploration carried at part of Loralai District of Balochistan. Theropod dinosaurs were frequent in India, while Poripuchian titanosaurs (Sauropoda, Dinosauria) were frequent in Pakistan. Besides some ichnotaxa, many bone taxa such as 1 titanosauriform, 14 titanosaurian sauropod (including one new titanosaur), and 3 theropod dinosaurs are established from Pakistan. Among these 12 titanosaur species and 3 theropod species are named in about 10 km<sup>2</sup> area of Vitakri dome and 2 titanosaur species are named in about a few hundred square meter area of Mari Bohri (Kachi Bohri) which is about 10 km westward from Vitakri dome. Pakistan is a unique country which discoverd 14 diversified titanosaurs in a short area and also in a short period (67 - 66 million years ago/Ma). About 400 bones found from a few meter thick upper part of upper shale horizon of latest Maastrichtian Vitakri Formation which is base for titanosaur taxa. Cranial material is in low fraction (but include significant diverse snouts), caudal vertebrae are prominent, the cervicals, dorsals and sacrals have significant numbers, forelimb and hind limb bones have balanced fraction. Humeri, femora and tibiae are most common. To know the position of Pakistani titanosaurs among titanosaurs and sauropods, there is a need to extend list of characters for phylogenetic analyses. This broad feature list should include main characters of titanosaurs from Pakistan and also from global world.展开更多
Background Human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome(HIV/AIDS)has become a major worldwide public health issue,with a focus on developing nations.Despite having a very low HIV prevalence,South As...Background Human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome(HIV/AIDS)has become a major worldwide public health issue,with a focus on developing nations.Despite having a very low HIV prevalence,South Asia faces serious issues with stigma and false information because of a lack of awareness.This stigma highlights significant gaps in popular awareness while also sustaining unfavorable attitudes towards those living with HIV/AIDS.Pakistan is ranked second in South Asia for the rapidly increasing AIDS epidemic.Thorough information and optimistic outlooks are essential for successful HIV/AIDS prevention,control,and treatment.But false beliefs about how HIV/AIDS spreads lead to negative perceptions,which highlights the need to look into how women’s knowledge and attitudes about HIV/AIDS in Pakistan are influenced by sociodemographic traits and autonomy.Methods The purpose of this study is to evaluate Pakistani women’s discriminatory attitudes and level of awareness on HIV/AIDS.This study used data(the women in reproductive age 15-49 years’dataset)from the Pakistan Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey to conduct an analytical cross-sectional analysis.To represent the respondents’attitudes and knowledge towards people living with HIV(PLHIV),two composite variables were developed and composite scored.Binary logistics regression was used to identify predictor variables and chi-square was used for bivariate analysis.Results The findings reveal that almost 90%of Pakistani women have poor knowledge and attitude with HIV/AIDS.In Punjab,72.8%of rural residents have low knowledge,whereas only 20.6%of young individuals(15-<25 years old)show the least amount of ignorance.Education is shown to be crucial,and“Higher”education is associated with superior knowledge.Urban dwellers in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa typically have more expertise.Knowledge of HIV is positively correlated with education;those with higher education levels know a lot more(odds ratio[OR]=5.419).Similarly,quintiles with greater incomes show a higher likelihood of knowing about HIV(OR=6.745).The study identifies age,wealth index,place of residence,educational attainment,and exposure to contemporary media as significant predictors influencing HIV knowledge and attitudes among women in these provinces.Conclusion The majority of respondents had negative opinions regarding the virus,and the majority of women in the study knew very little about HIV.Individuals who live in metropolitan areas,have higher incomes,are better educated,are exposed to contemporary media,and are generally more aware of HIV and have more positive attitudes towards HIV/AIDS,or PLHIV.The study found that,in comparison to those living in urban environments,those from rural areas with low socioeconomic level have a negative attitude and inadequate understanding.展开更多
The article focuses on the dissemination and development of Chinese medicine in Pakistan.Religious records show that Chinese medicine was introduced to Pakistan as early as 1,400 years ago,while Hijama(Chinese cupping...The article focuses on the dissemination and development of Chinese medicine in Pakistan.Religious records show that Chinese medicine was introduced to Pakistan as early as 1,400 years ago,while Hijama(Chinese cupping)was used by Prophet Hazrat Muhammad to cure different types of diseases.Exchanges and cooperations between China and Pakistan continue to the present day.Acupuncture and moxibustion therapy,cupping therapy and herbal medicine are practiced with significant merits in today’s Pakistan.In the future,with the proposal of the Belt and Road Initiative and the landmark project of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor,Chinese medicine can be strengthened through cooperations at the herbal medicine trade level,the research and development level,the educational level,and the social association level.展开更多
BACKGROUND Minimal change disease(MCD)is a significant cause of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome(INS)in adults,representing approximately 10%-15%of INS cases.The data is scanty on clinicopathological features,treatment r...BACKGROUND Minimal change disease(MCD)is a significant cause of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome(INS)in adults,representing approximately 10%-15%of INS cases.The data is scanty on clinicopathological features,treatment responses,and long-term outcomes of MCD in adults.AIM To determine the clinicopathologic characteristics,treatment responses,and medium-term outcomes of adult patients with MCD in Pakistan.METHODS This retrospective cohort study included all adult patients with biopsy-proven MCD treated at the adult nephrology clinic,Sindh institute of urology and transplantation,between January 2010 and December 2020.The data was retrieved from the original renal biopsy request forms in the histopathology archives and the case files.Data on demographics,clinical presentation,laboratory findings,treatment regimens,and outcomes were collected and analyzed.Complete remission(CR),partial remission(PR),relapse,and steroid resistance were defined according to standard criteria.Statistical analyses were performed using statistical product and service solutions,Version 22.RESULTS The study cohort included 23 adults[15(65.2%males),mean age 26.34±10.28 years].Hypertension was found in 7(30.4%)and microscopic hematuria in 10(43.4%)of participants.Laboratory findings revealed a mean serum creatinine of 1.03±1.00 mg/dL,mean serum albumin of 1.94±0.90 g/dL and mean 24-hour urinary proteins of 4.53±2.43 g.The mean follow-up time was 38.09±22.3 months.Treatment with steroids was effective in 16/18(88.8%)of patients,with 10/16(62.5%)achieving CR and 6/16(37.5%)achieving PR.Two patients were resistant to steroids and required second-line immunosuppressive therapy.Relapse occurred in 4/20(19.04%)of patients,with a mean time to first relapse of 6.5±3.31 months.At the last follow-up,18/20(85.7%)of patients were in remission,and 16/20(76.1%)maintained normal renal function.No patients progressed to end-stage renal disease or died.CONCLUSION MCD in adults shows a favorable response to steroid therapy,with a majority achieving remission.However,relapses are common,necessitating second-line immunosuppressive treatments in some cases.The study highlights the need for standardized treatment guidelines for adult MCD to optimize outcomes.展开更多
Inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)has a low prevalence in the Global South,including Pakistan.While genetics and gut flora,influenced by diet and the environment,can contribute to this,we are exploring the possibility of...Inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)has a low prevalence in the Global South,including Pakistan.While genetics and gut flora,influenced by diet and the environment,can contribute to this,we are exploring the possibility of underdiagnosis.Lack of facilities trained in IBD,scarcity of medications,limited health insurance for specialist referral and the current epidemic of abdominal tuberculosis could be the cause.The increasing diagnosis of IBD among Pakistani immigrants and colorectal carcinoma among the young population might be the result of this.Timely referrals by primary care physicians to gastroenterologists,along with the growing use of newer technologies such as abdominal ultrasound for diagnosis can help mitigate the challenge of low or late diagnosis of this chronic condition.展开更多
Introduction:Chronic diseases are becoming more prevalent worldwide.The effects of chronic illnesses are disastrous not only for the diagnosed person but also for their entire family.This study explores chronic disea...Introduction:Chronic diseases are becoming more prevalent worldwide.The effects of chronic illnesses are disastrous not only for the diagnosed person but also for their entire family.This study explores chronic diseases’social and economic impact on low-income families.The study aims to determine the economic and social implications of various chronic diseases and the loss of income due to these conditions among low-income individuals in Southern Punjab,Pakistan.Methodology:A sample of 424 patients was selected from different areas of Southern Punjab.Data were collected using a questionnaire that included questions about economic status,self-reported health status,social status,management strategies,and health insurance,among other factors.Results:The mean monthly income of the respondents was found to be 57,097.6 Pakistani rupee(PKR),and the mean monthly expenses for treatment were 8,256.1 PKR.The loss of income was calculated at 15%.Additionally,62%of patients spent more than 10%of their monthly income on managing their disease.Approximately 85%of the respondents reported that chronic diseases affected their social life.Furthermore,80%of patients lacked health insurance.Conclusion:Chronic diseases impose significant economic and social burdens on patients and their families in Southern Punjab.To reduce the burden of chronic diseases,the government should enhance healthcare services in this region and provide health insurance to low-income families.展开更多
Saraikistan (South Punjab and surrounding) area of Pakistan is located in the central Pakistan. This area represents Triassic-Jurassic to Recent sedimentary marine and terrestrial strata. Most of the Mesozoic and Earl...Saraikistan (South Punjab and surrounding) area of Pakistan is located in the central Pakistan. This area represents Triassic-Jurassic to Recent sedimentary marine and terrestrial strata. Most of the Mesozoic and Early Cenozoic are represented by marine strata with rare terrestrial deposits, while the Late Cenozoic is represented by continental fluvial deposits. This area hosts significant mineral deposits and their development can play a significant role in the development of Saraikistan region and ultimately for Pakistan. The data of recently discovered biotas from Cambrian to Miocene age are tabulated for quick view. Mesozoic biotas show a prominent paleobiogeographic link with Gondwana and Cenozoic show Eurasian. Phylogeny and hypodigm of Poripuchian titanosaurs from India and Pakistan are hinted at here.展开更多
The current study extends the previous literature by exploring the effects of a newly discovered driver,i.e.,import taxes(as a proxy for commercial policies),on the consumption-based carbon emissions(CCO2e)for 1990Q1-...The current study extends the previous literature by exploring the effects of a newly discovered driver,i.e.,import taxes(as a proxy for commercial policies),on the consumption-based carbon emissions(CCO2e)for 1990Q1-2017Q4.For empirical analysis,several tests and methods,including Augmented Dickey–Fuller unit root test,Zivot–Andrews unit root test,asymmetric cointegration bound testing approach,non-linear ARDL,Wald-test,Granger causality test and wavelet quantile correlation(WQC)method are utilized.Furthermore,NARDL technique estimates reveal that contractionary commercial policy enhances the environmental quality by disrupting the detrimental effects of CCO2e.However,expansionary commercial policy escalates the environmental pollution by boosting the carbon emissions.Also,the exports and the renewable energy improve the ecological quality;however,GDP deteriorates the atmospheric quality by increasing the CCO2e.Besides,WQC method and the trivariate Granger causality test are deployed to confirm the robustness of the results.Based on the findings,some crucial policies are also recommended for sustainable and green development in Pakistan.展开更多
The eastern road section of the ChinaPakistan Economic Corridor(CPEC)traverses the challenging terrain of northern Pakistan,where frequent landslides pose a significant threat to socioeconomic development and infrastr...The eastern road section of the ChinaPakistan Economic Corridor(CPEC)traverses the challenging terrain of northern Pakistan,where frequent landslides pose a significant threat to socioeconomic development and infrastructure.However,the insufficient data on landslide hazards presents a substantial challenge to practical mitigation efforts.Therefore,we conducted an extensive study to gain insight into landslide assessment along the Mansehra-Muzaffarabad-Mirpur and Mangla(MMMM)Expressway.This study involved preparing a landslide inventory,analyzing landslide causative factors,and developing landslide susceptibility models(LSMs)using published data,remote sensing interpretations,field excursions and integrated predictive techniques.We first used Pearson's correlation coefficient(PCC),variable importance factors(VIF),and information gain ratio(IGR)to evaluate multicollinearity among the selected landslide causative factors(LCFs).Then,the topographic roughness index(TRI)with VIF>5 and PCC>0.7 was considered a redundant factor and thus removed before the data modeling.Finally,we adopted multiple machine-learning methods to analyze landslide susceptibility.The results indicate that the landslide inventory contains 1,776 events,of which 674 were classified based on geometrical and lithological configurations.The IGR results show that the rainfall,lithology,PGA,drainage density,slope,and distance to fault are the most effective LCFs.The AUC values for random forest(RF)(0.901),extreme gradient boosting(XGBoost)(0.884),and K-nearest neighbor(KNN)(0.872)remained higher than evidential belief function(EBF)(0.833),weight of evidence(WoE)(0.820),and certainty factor(CF)(0.810),respectively.The RF model outperformed all other models in terms of prediction.However,these models are accurate but newer in the area;thus,susceptible zones were verified with comprehensive field investigations.The northern and central regions accounted for the high and very high susceptibility classes in the final landslide susceptibility mapping(LSM)compared to the southern areas.展开更多
Cotton is a revenue source for cotton-producing countries;as the second-largest crop in Pakistan,it significantly contributes to its economy.Over the past few decades,cotton productivity has become unstable in Pakista...Cotton is a revenue source for cotton-producing countries;as the second-largest crop in Pakistan,it significantly contributes to its economy.Over the past few decades,cotton productivity has become unstable in Pakistan,and climate change is one of the main factors that impact cotton yield.Due to climate change,it becomes very important to understand the change trend and its impact on cotton yield at the regional level.Here,we investigate the relationship of standardized cotton yield variability with the variability of climate factors using a 15-yr moving window.The piecewise regression was fitted to obtain the trend-shifting point of climate factors.The results show that precipitation has experienced an overall decreasing trend of–0.64 mm/yr during the study period,with opposing trends of–1.39 mm/yr and 1.52 mm/yr before and after the trend-shifting point,respectively.We found that cotton yield variability increased at a rate of 0.17%/yr,and this trend was highly correlated with the variability of climate factors.The multiple regression analysis explains that climate variability is a dominant factor and controlled 81%of the cotton production in the study area from 1990 to 2019,while it controlled 73%of the production from 1990 to 2002 and 84%from 2002 to 2019.These findings reveal that climate factors affact the distinct spatial pattern of changes in cotton yield variability at the tehsil level.展开更多
This study investigates and analyses empirically the impact of Foreign Direct Investment(FDI)inflows on the exports for a panel series of five large-scale manufacturing industries of Pakistan during the period 2000-20...This study investigates and analyses empirically the impact of Foreign Direct Investment(FDI)inflows on the exports for a panel series of five large-scale manufacturing industries of Pakistan during the period 2000-2020.For this purpose,we establish export production function as based on endogenous growth theory in which role of FDI is considered as additional determinant of export.The Pedroni residual-based co-integration test and Error Correction Model(ECM)are applied for the long and short-run relationships.Pedroni residual based approach highlighted that human capitals,domestic capitals,foreign direct investments,exports,and domestic sales are co-integrated in the long run.According to results of ECM,coefficient of FDI appears to have statistical significant impact on exports and has a positive sign in the long run.Whereas,FDI does not contribute to export growth in the short run but it takes time to influence the growth patterns of the sector.On the basis of theoretical notion of endogenous growth theory,long-run coefficient of FDI may be interpreted as evidence in favour of the hypotheses that FDI has an impact on exports via export development.Thus,it can be concluded that“FDI-based endogenous growth theory”is valid in the case of Pakistan.展开更多
The escalating human immunodeficiency virus(HIV)outbreaks in Pakistan are a matter of concern for both general population and health care settings[1].The first case of HIV was reported in 1987.Since then,0.2 million p...The escalating human immunodeficiency virus(HIV)outbreaks in Pakistan are a matter of concern for both general population and health care settings[1].The first case of HIV was reported in 1987.Since then,0.2 million people are living with HIV,63202 know their positive status,and 40652 patients are acquiring health assistance from 78 anti-retroviral therapy centers[2,3].According to reports,the cases of HIV/AIDS escalated to 75%within a decade since 2013,with merely 4500 in Pakistan[1,2].展开更多
BACKGROUND Behavioral activation therapy(BA)is as effective as cognitive behavior therapy(CBT)in treating depression and can be delivered by practitioners with much less psychological training,making it particularly s...BACKGROUND Behavioral activation therapy(BA)is as effective as cognitive behavior therapy(CBT)in treating depression and can be delivered by practitioners with much less psychological training,making it particularly suitable for low resource settings.BA that is culturally adapted for Muslims(BA-M)is a culturally adapted form of BA that has been found acceptable and feasible for Muslims with depression in the United Kingdom and Turkey;however,this is the first time that its efficacy has been determined through a definitive randomized controlled trial.AIM To compare the effectiveness of BA-M with CBT for Muslim patients with depression in Pakistan.METHODS One hundred and eight patients were randomized 1:1 to treatment arms in a parallel-group randomized controlled trial in hospital or community sites in Lahore,Pakistan.Recruitment followed self-referral or referrals from clinicians,consultants or relevant professionals at each site.Four measures were recorded by blinded assessors:The patient health questionnaire-9(PHQ-9);the BA for depression scale short form(BADS-SF);symptom checklist-revised and the World Health Organization Quality-of-Life Brief Scale.All measures were recorded at baseline and post treatment;PHQ-9 and BADS-SF were also recorded at each session and at three month follow up.The primary analysis was to regress the PHQ-9 score after therapy upon the PHQ-9 score before therapy(baseline)and the type of therapy given,that is,analysis of covariance.In addition,analysis using PHQ-9 scores collected at each therapy session was employed in a 2-level regression model.RESULTS Patients in the BA-M arm experienced greater improvement in PHQ-9 score of 1.95 units compared to the CBT arm after adjusting for baseline values(P=0.006)The key reason behind this improvement was that patients were retained in therapy longer under BA-M,in which patients were retained for an average 0.75 sessions more than CBT patients(P=0.013).Patients also showed significant differences on physical(P<0.001),psychological(P=0.004)and social(P=0.047)domains of Quality of Life(QoL)at post treatment level,indicating an increased QoL in the BA-M group as compared to the treatment as usual group.Some baseline differences were noted in both groups for BA scores and two domains of QoL scale:Physical and environment,which might have influenced the results,though the BA-M group showed more improvement at completion of therapy.CONCLUSION Results proved the efficacy of BA-M in reducing symptoms for depressed patients in Pakistan,indicating BA-M is a promising treatment modality for depression in future,particularly in low resource settings.展开更多
Indus basin hosts many significant mineral deposits like gypsum and cement raw materials, gemstones, iron, coal, marble, dimension and construction stones, petroleum and water resources, world class pink salt and othe...Indus basin hosts many significant mineral deposits like gypsum and cement raw materials, gemstones, iron, coal, marble, dimension and construction stones, petroleum and water resources, world class pink salt and other many minerals in different regions which need further exploitation and development. The construction of new water dams in different regions are vital (for availability of cheap electricity), because of available barren and fertile lands and wastage of water as flood. Further the installation of more cement industries in different regions of Indus Basin especially in middle Indus (Sulaiman Range where gypsum, clays and limestones can be available via belt) can increase export to receive more foreign exchange and make local cement cheap for the sustainable development of Pakistan. 31 stratigraphic sequential sections at different sections of Indus basins are presented to know the variation and local stratigraphy. Further here three new titanosaur taxa are being described. Saraikimasoom is based on snout;Gspsaurus, (Maojandino), Nicksaurus and Khanazeem are based on cranial, vertebral and appendicular elements;Balochisaurus, Marisaurus, Pakisaurus, and 3 new genera and species Imrankhanhero zilefatmi, Qaikshaheen masoomniazi and Ikqaumishan smqureshi based on vertebral and appendicular elements;and Sulaimanisaurus and Khetranisaurus based on only caudal vertebrae. Although Pakistani Titanosaurians seem to be proliferated found from one horizon of Vitakri Formation just below the K-Pg boundary they have a wide range of diagnostic features and key elements among titanosaurs which can be used for comparison and phylogenetic analyses with broad updated character data set of titanosaurs.展开更多
From the perspective of the development of ancient Gandhara civilization,the exhibition shows the visitors the artistic charm of Gandhara culture and its influence.Among them,30 artifacts from the Palace Museum witnes...From the perspective of the development of ancient Gandhara civilization,the exhibition shows the visitors the artistic charm of Gandhara culture and its influence.Among them,30 artifacts from the Palace Museum witness the long history of cultural and artistic exchanges between China and Pakistan.展开更多
Heritage Impact Assessments(HIAs)are progressively needed to investigate potential impacts and outcomes of development on the Outstanding Universal Value(OUV)of world heritage properties.However,many key stakeholders ...Heritage Impact Assessments(HIAs)are progressively needed to investigate potential impacts and outcomes of development on the Outstanding Universal Value(OUV)of world heritage properties.However,many key stakeholders involved in implementing the World Heritage Convention lack the management system,methodological tools,and guidelines to conduct effective impact assessments in areas without these resources.The paper explores the successful utilization of the Heritage Impact Assessment(HIA)tool to address concerns raised by UNESCO and civil society.This occurred when the Punjab government initiated the Orange Line Metro Train Project(OLMT)near the World Heritage Shalimar Garden and other historic monuments in Lahore.The project aimed to meet the daily transportation needs of around 2.5 million commuters.展开更多
Pakistan is a typical English-speaking country in south Asia. However, the data of Pakistan English is extremely rare. If one wants to grasp the English features in south Asia and try to find the similarities among di...Pakistan is a typical English-speaking country in south Asia. However, the data of Pakistan English is extremely rare. If one wants to grasp the English features in south Asia and try to find the similarities among different languages, he should know something about Pakistani English.In this paper, the background information about Pakistan will be mentioned as well as the English situation in this country,including English education, English problems, pronunciation features, and Pakistani literature.展开更多
As part of the Sino-Pak trans-boundary cooperation for conservation and sustainable development in Pamir border region, World Wild Fund （WWF）-Pakistan conducted a preliminary social, economic and ecological survey i...As part of the Sino-Pak trans-boundary cooperation for conservation and sustainable development in Pamir border region, World Wild Fund （WWF）-Pakistan conducted a preliminary social, economic and ecological survey in the ShimshaI-Pamir Lakes area in July 2009. The purpose of the study was to explore potentials and opportunities for future collaborative conservation of some species, habitats and high altitude ecosystems in the border region between China and Pakistan. The two-week herpetological study in the Shimshal Pamir area of Khunjerab National Park （KNP） along Pakistan-China border was an integral part of the survey, conducted exclu- sively to document reptilian fauna with a special emphasis on investigating their occurrence, distribution and status in the study area. Field investigations were performed during daytime when it was hot enough and reptiles were active, basking or feeding. A total of 15 specimens belonging to four species of the Agamidae family were captured by striking stones and beating bushes with sticks. Collected specimens were preserved using 10% formalin solution, tagged with field information and stored in Zoological Survey Department, Karachi for future reference. Laboratory investigations were carried out for pholidosic counts and morphometric measurements. A detailed review of relevant literature, habitat characteristics and laboratory investigations revealed the occurrence of Laudakia himalayana, L. pakistanica, L. tuberculata and L. badakhshana at 4,082 m, 4,172 m, 4,005 m and 4,240 m asl, respectively, which are much higher altitudes as compared to the previously reported heights of 3,353 m, 3,200 m, 2,500 m and 2,400 m asl. The terrain offers a variety of ecological barriers, in the form of fast and freezing running waters and massive glaciers with peculiar harsh climatic conditions prevailing for nine months of the year, which restricts species migration and thus increases endemism. Although one of the four species recorded from the study area, i.e.L, pakistanica is endemic to Pakistan, L. tuberculata and L. badakhshana are new records from Shimshal, Pakistan, so a detailed investigation is suggested for further herpetological records from the study area.展开更多
基金The authors extend their appreciation to Researchers Supporting Project number(RSP2024R390),King Saud University,Riyadh,Saudi Arabia.
文摘Soil erosion is a crucial geo-environmental hazard worldwide that affects water quality and agriculture,decreases reservoir storage capacity due to sedimentation,and increases the danger of flooding and landslides.Thus,this study uses geospatial modeling to produce soil erosion susceptibility maps(SESM)for the Hangu region,Khyber Pakhtunkhwa(KPK),Pakistan.The Hangu region,located in the Kohat Plateau of KPK,Pakistan,is particularly susceptible to soil erosion due to its unique geomorphological and climatic characteristics.Moreover,the Hangu region is characterized by a combination of steep slopes,variable rainfall patterns,diverse land use,and distinct soil types,all of which contribute to the complexity and severity of soil erosion processes.These factors necessitate a detailed and region-specific study to develop effective soil conservation strategies.In this research,we detected and mapped 1013 soil erosion points and prepared 12 predisposing factors(elevation,aspect,slope,Normalized Differentiate Vegetation Index(NDVI),drainage network,curvature,Land Use Land Cover(LULC),rainfall,lithology,contour,soil texture,and road network)of soil erosion using GIS platform.Additionally,GIS-based statistical models like the weight of evidence(WOE)and frequency ratio(FR)were applied to produce the SESM for the study area.The SESM was reclassified into four classes,i.e.,low,medium,high,and very high zone.The results of WOE for SESM show that 16.39%,33.02%,29.27%,and 21.30%of areas are covered by low,medium,high,and very high zones,respectively.In contrast,the FR results revealed that 16.50%,24.33%,35.55%,and 23.59%of the areas are occupied by low,medium,high,and very high classes.Furthermore,the reliability of applied models was evaluated using the Area Under Curve(AUC)technique.The validation results utilizing the area under curve showed that the success rate curve(SRC)and predicted rate curve(PRC)for WOE are 82%and 86%,respectively,while SRC and PRC for FR are 85%and 96%,respectively.The validation results revealed that the FR model performance is better and more reliable than the WOE.
文摘Digital health innovations such as online webinars,websites,blogs,and health apps have been associated with increased sexual and reproductive health(SRH)among the general population.Many studies have been conducted in developed countries in the West;however,little research has been conducted in low-income countries,especially in Pakistan.The socioeconomic instability and the government's lack of awareness and knowledge have resulted in no regulations being placed to incorporate telehealth in medicine.The healthcare departments must take into consideration the lifechanging impact of telehealth and the barriers that prevent it in becoming known,to reduce the incidence of unsafe abortions and sexual health practices that prove to be a stigma in society.
文摘Discoveries of many coal seams at depths by drilling carried by Geological Survey of Pakistan in Sor Range and Harnai Gochina, extended the coal seams at depth which is challenge for mine owners to exploit feasibly. Bed to bed gypsum samplings (and their chemical analyses) of huge gypsum deposits from Sulaiman foldbelt is a base for industrialist and also planers to develop cement and gypsum industries to increase export and foreign exchange for the development of area and Pakistan. Low and high grade sedimentary iron deposits, silica sand and uranium host rocks and their extensions in Sulaiman and Kirthar foldbelts are presented. Anomalies of a few base metals arise as a result of geochemical exploration carried at part of Loralai District of Balochistan. Theropod dinosaurs were frequent in India, while Poripuchian titanosaurs (Sauropoda, Dinosauria) were frequent in Pakistan. Besides some ichnotaxa, many bone taxa such as 1 titanosauriform, 14 titanosaurian sauropod (including one new titanosaur), and 3 theropod dinosaurs are established from Pakistan. Among these 12 titanosaur species and 3 theropod species are named in about 10 km<sup>2</sup> area of Vitakri dome and 2 titanosaur species are named in about a few hundred square meter area of Mari Bohri (Kachi Bohri) which is about 10 km westward from Vitakri dome. Pakistan is a unique country which discoverd 14 diversified titanosaurs in a short area and also in a short period (67 - 66 million years ago/Ma). About 400 bones found from a few meter thick upper part of upper shale horizon of latest Maastrichtian Vitakri Formation which is base for titanosaur taxa. Cranial material is in low fraction (but include significant diverse snouts), caudal vertebrae are prominent, the cervicals, dorsals and sacrals have significant numbers, forelimb and hind limb bones have balanced fraction. Humeri, femora and tibiae are most common. To know the position of Pakistani titanosaurs among titanosaurs and sauropods, there is a need to extend list of characters for phylogenetic analyses. This broad feature list should include main characters of titanosaurs from Pakistan and also from global world.
文摘Background Human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome(HIV/AIDS)has become a major worldwide public health issue,with a focus on developing nations.Despite having a very low HIV prevalence,South Asia faces serious issues with stigma and false information because of a lack of awareness.This stigma highlights significant gaps in popular awareness while also sustaining unfavorable attitudes towards those living with HIV/AIDS.Pakistan is ranked second in South Asia for the rapidly increasing AIDS epidemic.Thorough information and optimistic outlooks are essential for successful HIV/AIDS prevention,control,and treatment.But false beliefs about how HIV/AIDS spreads lead to negative perceptions,which highlights the need to look into how women’s knowledge and attitudes about HIV/AIDS in Pakistan are influenced by sociodemographic traits and autonomy.Methods The purpose of this study is to evaluate Pakistani women’s discriminatory attitudes and level of awareness on HIV/AIDS.This study used data(the women in reproductive age 15-49 years’dataset)from the Pakistan Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey to conduct an analytical cross-sectional analysis.To represent the respondents’attitudes and knowledge towards people living with HIV(PLHIV),two composite variables were developed and composite scored.Binary logistics regression was used to identify predictor variables and chi-square was used for bivariate analysis.Results The findings reveal that almost 90%of Pakistani women have poor knowledge and attitude with HIV/AIDS.In Punjab,72.8%of rural residents have low knowledge,whereas only 20.6%of young individuals(15-<25 years old)show the least amount of ignorance.Education is shown to be crucial,and“Higher”education is associated with superior knowledge.Urban dwellers in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa typically have more expertise.Knowledge of HIV is positively correlated with education;those with higher education levels know a lot more(odds ratio[OR]=5.419).Similarly,quintiles with greater incomes show a higher likelihood of knowing about HIV(OR=6.745).The study identifies age,wealth index,place of residence,educational attainment,and exposure to contemporary media as significant predictors influencing HIV knowledge and attitudes among women in these provinces.Conclusion The majority of respondents had negative opinions regarding the virus,and the majority of women in the study knew very little about HIV.Individuals who live in metropolitan areas,have higher incomes,are better educated,are exposed to contemporary media,and are generally more aware of HIV and have more positive attitudes towards HIV/AIDS,or PLHIV.The study found that,in comparison to those living in urban environments,those from rural areas with low socioeconomic level have a negative attitude and inadequate understanding.
基金This research was financed by the grants from the Second Batch of Provincial Curriculum Ideological and Political Teaching Research Projects of Zhejiang Provincial Department of Education in 2022(No.Z.J.H.[2022]51)Zhejiang Educational Science Planning Project(No.2022SCG429)Special Project of Traditional Chinese Medical Culture of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University(No.2022JKZZW07 and 2022JKZZW13).
文摘The article focuses on the dissemination and development of Chinese medicine in Pakistan.Religious records show that Chinese medicine was introduced to Pakistan as early as 1,400 years ago,while Hijama(Chinese cupping)was used by Prophet Hazrat Muhammad to cure different types of diseases.Exchanges and cooperations between China and Pakistan continue to the present day.Acupuncture and moxibustion therapy,cupping therapy and herbal medicine are practiced with significant merits in today’s Pakistan.In the future,with the proposal of the Belt and Road Initiative and the landmark project of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor,Chinese medicine can be strengthened through cooperations at the herbal medicine trade level,the research and development level,the educational level,and the social association level.
文摘BACKGROUND Minimal change disease(MCD)is a significant cause of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome(INS)in adults,representing approximately 10%-15%of INS cases.The data is scanty on clinicopathological features,treatment responses,and long-term outcomes of MCD in adults.AIM To determine the clinicopathologic characteristics,treatment responses,and medium-term outcomes of adult patients with MCD in Pakistan.METHODS This retrospective cohort study included all adult patients with biopsy-proven MCD treated at the adult nephrology clinic,Sindh institute of urology and transplantation,between January 2010 and December 2020.The data was retrieved from the original renal biopsy request forms in the histopathology archives and the case files.Data on demographics,clinical presentation,laboratory findings,treatment regimens,and outcomes were collected and analyzed.Complete remission(CR),partial remission(PR),relapse,and steroid resistance were defined according to standard criteria.Statistical analyses were performed using statistical product and service solutions,Version 22.RESULTS The study cohort included 23 adults[15(65.2%males),mean age 26.34±10.28 years].Hypertension was found in 7(30.4%)and microscopic hematuria in 10(43.4%)of participants.Laboratory findings revealed a mean serum creatinine of 1.03±1.00 mg/dL,mean serum albumin of 1.94±0.90 g/dL and mean 24-hour urinary proteins of 4.53±2.43 g.The mean follow-up time was 38.09±22.3 months.Treatment with steroids was effective in 16/18(88.8%)of patients,with 10/16(62.5%)achieving CR and 6/16(37.5%)achieving PR.Two patients were resistant to steroids and required second-line immunosuppressive therapy.Relapse occurred in 4/20(19.04%)of patients,with a mean time to first relapse of 6.5±3.31 months.At the last follow-up,18/20(85.7%)of patients were in remission,and 16/20(76.1%)maintained normal renal function.No patients progressed to end-stage renal disease or died.CONCLUSION MCD in adults shows a favorable response to steroid therapy,with a majority achieving remission.However,relapses are common,necessitating second-line immunosuppressive treatments in some cases.The study highlights the need for standardized treatment guidelines for adult MCD to optimize outcomes.
文摘Inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)has a low prevalence in the Global South,including Pakistan.While genetics and gut flora,influenced by diet and the environment,can contribute to this,we are exploring the possibility of underdiagnosis.Lack of facilities trained in IBD,scarcity of medications,limited health insurance for specialist referral and the current epidemic of abdominal tuberculosis could be the cause.The increasing diagnosis of IBD among Pakistani immigrants and colorectal carcinoma among the young population might be the result of this.Timely referrals by primary care physicians to gastroenterologists,along with the growing use of newer technologies such as abdominal ultrasound for diagnosis can help mitigate the challenge of low or late diagnosis of this chronic condition.
文摘Introduction:Chronic diseases are becoming more prevalent worldwide.The effects of chronic illnesses are disastrous not only for the diagnosed person but also for their entire family.This study explores chronic diseases’social and economic impact on low-income families.The study aims to determine the economic and social implications of various chronic diseases and the loss of income due to these conditions among low-income individuals in Southern Punjab,Pakistan.Methodology:A sample of 424 patients was selected from different areas of Southern Punjab.Data were collected using a questionnaire that included questions about economic status,self-reported health status,social status,management strategies,and health insurance,among other factors.Results:The mean monthly income of the respondents was found to be 57,097.6 Pakistani rupee(PKR),and the mean monthly expenses for treatment were 8,256.1 PKR.The loss of income was calculated at 15%.Additionally,62%of patients spent more than 10%of their monthly income on managing their disease.Approximately 85%of the respondents reported that chronic diseases affected their social life.Furthermore,80%of patients lacked health insurance.Conclusion:Chronic diseases impose significant economic and social burdens on patients and their families in Southern Punjab.To reduce the burden of chronic diseases,the government should enhance healthcare services in this region and provide health insurance to low-income families.
文摘Saraikistan (South Punjab and surrounding) area of Pakistan is located in the central Pakistan. This area represents Triassic-Jurassic to Recent sedimentary marine and terrestrial strata. Most of the Mesozoic and Early Cenozoic are represented by marine strata with rare terrestrial deposits, while the Late Cenozoic is represented by continental fluvial deposits. This area hosts significant mineral deposits and their development can play a significant role in the development of Saraikistan region and ultimately for Pakistan. The data of recently discovered biotas from Cambrian to Miocene age are tabulated for quick view. Mesozoic biotas show a prominent paleobiogeographic link with Gondwana and Cenozoic show Eurasian. Phylogeny and hypodigm of Poripuchian titanosaurs from India and Pakistan are hinted at here.
文摘The current study extends the previous literature by exploring the effects of a newly discovered driver,i.e.,import taxes(as a proxy for commercial policies),on the consumption-based carbon emissions(CCO2e)for 1990Q1-2017Q4.For empirical analysis,several tests and methods,including Augmented Dickey–Fuller unit root test,Zivot–Andrews unit root test,asymmetric cointegration bound testing approach,non-linear ARDL,Wald-test,Granger causality test and wavelet quantile correlation(WQC)method are utilized.Furthermore,NARDL technique estimates reveal that contractionary commercial policy enhances the environmental quality by disrupting the detrimental effects of CCO2e.However,expansionary commercial policy escalates the environmental pollution by boosting the carbon emissions.Also,the exports and the renewable energy improve the ecological quality;however,GDP deteriorates the atmospheric quality by increasing the CCO2e.Besides,WQC method and the trivariate Granger causality test are deployed to confirm the robustness of the results.Based on the findings,some crucial policies are also recommended for sustainable and green development in Pakistan.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.U22A20603)the Strategic Priority Research Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(Grant No.XDA20030301)。
文摘The eastern road section of the ChinaPakistan Economic Corridor(CPEC)traverses the challenging terrain of northern Pakistan,where frequent landslides pose a significant threat to socioeconomic development and infrastructure.However,the insufficient data on landslide hazards presents a substantial challenge to practical mitigation efforts.Therefore,we conducted an extensive study to gain insight into landslide assessment along the Mansehra-Muzaffarabad-Mirpur and Mangla(MMMM)Expressway.This study involved preparing a landslide inventory,analyzing landslide causative factors,and developing landslide susceptibility models(LSMs)using published data,remote sensing interpretations,field excursions and integrated predictive techniques.We first used Pearson's correlation coefficient(PCC),variable importance factors(VIF),and information gain ratio(IGR)to evaluate multicollinearity among the selected landslide causative factors(LCFs).Then,the topographic roughness index(TRI)with VIF>5 and PCC>0.7 was considered a redundant factor and thus removed before the data modeling.Finally,we adopted multiple machine-learning methods to analyze landslide susceptibility.The results indicate that the landslide inventory contains 1,776 events,of which 674 were classified based on geometrical and lithological configurations.The IGR results show that the rainfall,lithology,PGA,drainage density,slope,and distance to fault are the most effective LCFs.The AUC values for random forest(RF)(0.901),extreme gradient boosting(XGBoost)(0.884),and K-nearest neighbor(KNN)(0.872)remained higher than evidential belief function(EBF)(0.833),weight of evidence(WoE)(0.820),and certainty factor(CF)(0.810),respectively.The RF model outperformed all other models in terms of prediction.However,these models are accurate but newer in the area;thus,susceptible zones were verified with comprehensive field investigations.The northern and central regions accounted for the high and very high susceptibility classes in the final landslide susceptibility mapping(LSM)compared to the southern areas.
基金Under the auspices of National Key Research and Development Program of China (No.2017YFA0604403-3,2016YFA0602301)the Joint Fund of National Natural Science Foundation of China (No.U19A2023)。
文摘Cotton is a revenue source for cotton-producing countries;as the second-largest crop in Pakistan,it significantly contributes to its economy.Over the past few decades,cotton productivity has become unstable in Pakistan,and climate change is one of the main factors that impact cotton yield.Due to climate change,it becomes very important to understand the change trend and its impact on cotton yield at the regional level.Here,we investigate the relationship of standardized cotton yield variability with the variability of climate factors using a 15-yr moving window.The piecewise regression was fitted to obtain the trend-shifting point of climate factors.The results show that precipitation has experienced an overall decreasing trend of–0.64 mm/yr during the study period,with opposing trends of–1.39 mm/yr and 1.52 mm/yr before and after the trend-shifting point,respectively.We found that cotton yield variability increased at a rate of 0.17%/yr,and this trend was highly correlated with the variability of climate factors.The multiple regression analysis explains that climate variability is a dominant factor and controlled 81%of the cotton production in the study area from 1990 to 2019,while it controlled 73%of the production from 1990 to 2002 and 84%from 2002 to 2019.These findings reveal that climate factors affact the distinct spatial pattern of changes in cotton yield variability at the tehsil level.
文摘This study investigates and analyses empirically the impact of Foreign Direct Investment(FDI)inflows on the exports for a panel series of five large-scale manufacturing industries of Pakistan during the period 2000-2020.For this purpose,we establish export production function as based on endogenous growth theory in which role of FDI is considered as additional determinant of export.The Pedroni residual-based co-integration test and Error Correction Model(ECM)are applied for the long and short-run relationships.Pedroni residual based approach highlighted that human capitals,domestic capitals,foreign direct investments,exports,and domestic sales are co-integrated in the long run.According to results of ECM,coefficient of FDI appears to have statistical significant impact on exports and has a positive sign in the long run.Whereas,FDI does not contribute to export growth in the short run but it takes time to influence the growth patterns of the sector.On the basis of theoretical notion of endogenous growth theory,long-run coefficient of FDI may be interpreted as evidence in favour of the hypotheses that FDI has an impact on exports via export development.Thus,it can be concluded that“FDI-based endogenous growth theory”is valid in the case of Pakistan.
文摘The escalating human immunodeficiency virus(HIV)outbreaks in Pakistan are a matter of concern for both general population and health care settings[1].The first case of HIV was reported in 1987.Since then,0.2 million people are living with HIV,63202 know their positive status,and 40652 patients are acquiring health assistance from 78 anti-retroviral therapy centers[2,3].According to reports,the cases of HIV/AIDS escalated to 75%within a decade since 2013,with merely 4500 in Pakistan[1,2].
文摘BACKGROUND Behavioral activation therapy(BA)is as effective as cognitive behavior therapy(CBT)in treating depression and can be delivered by practitioners with much less psychological training,making it particularly suitable for low resource settings.BA that is culturally adapted for Muslims(BA-M)is a culturally adapted form of BA that has been found acceptable and feasible for Muslims with depression in the United Kingdom and Turkey;however,this is the first time that its efficacy has been determined through a definitive randomized controlled trial.AIM To compare the effectiveness of BA-M with CBT for Muslim patients with depression in Pakistan.METHODS One hundred and eight patients were randomized 1:1 to treatment arms in a parallel-group randomized controlled trial in hospital or community sites in Lahore,Pakistan.Recruitment followed self-referral or referrals from clinicians,consultants or relevant professionals at each site.Four measures were recorded by blinded assessors:The patient health questionnaire-9(PHQ-9);the BA for depression scale short form(BADS-SF);symptom checklist-revised and the World Health Organization Quality-of-Life Brief Scale.All measures were recorded at baseline and post treatment;PHQ-9 and BADS-SF were also recorded at each session and at three month follow up.The primary analysis was to regress the PHQ-9 score after therapy upon the PHQ-9 score before therapy(baseline)and the type of therapy given,that is,analysis of covariance.In addition,analysis using PHQ-9 scores collected at each therapy session was employed in a 2-level regression model.RESULTS Patients in the BA-M arm experienced greater improvement in PHQ-9 score of 1.95 units compared to the CBT arm after adjusting for baseline values(P=0.006)The key reason behind this improvement was that patients were retained in therapy longer under BA-M,in which patients were retained for an average 0.75 sessions more than CBT patients(P=0.013).Patients also showed significant differences on physical(P<0.001),psychological(P=0.004)and social(P=0.047)domains of Quality of Life(QoL)at post treatment level,indicating an increased QoL in the BA-M group as compared to the treatment as usual group.Some baseline differences were noted in both groups for BA scores and two domains of QoL scale:Physical and environment,which might have influenced the results,though the BA-M group showed more improvement at completion of therapy.CONCLUSION Results proved the efficacy of BA-M in reducing symptoms for depressed patients in Pakistan,indicating BA-M is a promising treatment modality for depression in future,particularly in low resource settings.
文摘Indus basin hosts many significant mineral deposits like gypsum and cement raw materials, gemstones, iron, coal, marble, dimension and construction stones, petroleum and water resources, world class pink salt and other many minerals in different regions which need further exploitation and development. The construction of new water dams in different regions are vital (for availability of cheap electricity), because of available barren and fertile lands and wastage of water as flood. Further the installation of more cement industries in different regions of Indus Basin especially in middle Indus (Sulaiman Range where gypsum, clays and limestones can be available via belt) can increase export to receive more foreign exchange and make local cement cheap for the sustainable development of Pakistan. 31 stratigraphic sequential sections at different sections of Indus basins are presented to know the variation and local stratigraphy. Further here three new titanosaur taxa are being described. Saraikimasoom is based on snout;Gspsaurus, (Maojandino), Nicksaurus and Khanazeem are based on cranial, vertebral and appendicular elements;Balochisaurus, Marisaurus, Pakisaurus, and 3 new genera and species Imrankhanhero zilefatmi, Qaikshaheen masoomniazi and Ikqaumishan smqureshi based on vertebral and appendicular elements;and Sulaimanisaurus and Khetranisaurus based on only caudal vertebrae. Although Pakistani Titanosaurians seem to be proliferated found from one horizon of Vitakri Formation just below the K-Pg boundary they have a wide range of diagnostic features and key elements among titanosaurs which can be used for comparison and phylogenetic analyses with broad updated character data set of titanosaurs.
文摘From the perspective of the development of ancient Gandhara civilization,the exhibition shows the visitors the artistic charm of Gandhara culture and its influence.Among them,30 artifacts from the Palace Museum witness the long history of cultural and artistic exchanges between China and Pakistan.
文摘Heritage Impact Assessments(HIAs)are progressively needed to investigate potential impacts and outcomes of development on the Outstanding Universal Value(OUV)of world heritage properties.However,many key stakeholders involved in implementing the World Heritage Convention lack the management system,methodological tools,and guidelines to conduct effective impact assessments in areas without these resources.The paper explores the successful utilization of the Heritage Impact Assessment(HIA)tool to address concerns raised by UNESCO and civil society.This occurred when the Punjab government initiated the Orange Line Metro Train Project(OLMT)near the World Heritage Shalimar Garden and other historic monuments in Lahore.The project aimed to meet the daily transportation needs of around 2.5 million commuters.
文摘Pakistan is a typical English-speaking country in south Asia. However, the data of Pakistan English is extremely rare. If one wants to grasp the English features in south Asia and try to find the similarities among different languages, he should know something about Pakistani English.In this paper, the background information about Pakistan will be mentioned as well as the English situation in this country,including English education, English problems, pronunciation features, and Pakistani literature.
基金the WWF Netherlands for funding the study through Saving Wetlands Sky High programme
文摘As part of the Sino-Pak trans-boundary cooperation for conservation and sustainable development in Pamir border region, World Wild Fund （WWF）-Pakistan conducted a preliminary social, economic and ecological survey in the ShimshaI-Pamir Lakes area in July 2009. The purpose of the study was to explore potentials and opportunities for future collaborative conservation of some species, habitats and high altitude ecosystems in the border region between China and Pakistan. The two-week herpetological study in the Shimshal Pamir area of Khunjerab National Park （KNP） along Pakistan-China border was an integral part of the survey, conducted exclu- sively to document reptilian fauna with a special emphasis on investigating their occurrence, distribution and status in the study area. Field investigations were performed during daytime when it was hot enough and reptiles were active, basking or feeding. A total of 15 specimens belonging to four species of the Agamidae family were captured by striking stones and beating bushes with sticks. Collected specimens were preserved using 10% formalin solution, tagged with field information and stored in Zoological Survey Department, Karachi for future reference. Laboratory investigations were carried out for pholidosic counts and morphometric measurements. A detailed review of relevant literature, habitat characteristics and laboratory investigations revealed the occurrence of Laudakia himalayana, L. pakistanica, L. tuberculata and L. badakhshana at 4,082 m, 4,172 m, 4,005 m and 4,240 m asl, respectively, which are much higher altitudes as compared to the previously reported heights of 3,353 m, 3,200 m, 2,500 m and 2,400 m asl. The terrain offers a variety of ecological barriers, in the form of fast and freezing running waters and massive glaciers with peculiar harsh climatic conditions prevailing for nine months of the year, which restricts species migration and thus increases endemism. Although one of the four species recorded from the study area, i.e.L, pakistanica is endemic to Pakistan, L. tuberculata and L. badakhshana are new records from Shimshal, Pakistan, so a detailed investigation is suggested for further herpetological records from the study area.
