Areas Of Punjab Research Articles

Degree of blood safety of voluntary non-remunerated versus replacement blood donations: A multi-centre study of the large cohort of blood donors from two provinces of Pakistan.

Voluntary non-remunerated blood donors (VNRBDs) are recognized as being crucial for the safety and sustainability of national blood supplies. Systems based on replacement donors (RDs) pose high risks of transfusion transmissible infections (TTIs). Currently, only 10%-13% of blood donations are voluntary in Pakistan. No large-scale studies have been conducted to objectively evaluate the impact of the mode of donation on the frequency of TTIs, a gap this study aimed to fill. The study was conducted at the Indus Hospital, Karachi. Data from a total of 591,820 blood donations were included from 1 October 2017 to 30 May 2021 and evaluated for type of donations and results of TTI testing, primarily performed on Architect i2000SR (Abbott). The TTIs tested include hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, human immunodeficiency virus, syphilis and malaria. A total of 477,938 (80.7%) RDs and 113,882 (19.3%) VNRBDs were screened. Among these, 53,590 (9.06%) were positive for TTIs. There were 10.2% positive RDs (10.08-10.25 95% confidence interval [CI]) while 4.4% in VNRBDs (4.29-4.53 95% CI). Co-infections were observed in 2367 (0.4%) RDs, while 159 (0.02%) in VNRBDs. Geographically, the highest frequency of TTIs was observed in semi-urban areas of Sindh (11.2%) and Punjab (9.6%). A site-wise comparison of TTIs in RD versus VNRBD showed significant differences (p-value 0.00). RDs are associated with higher frequencies of TTIs, compared with VNRBD. However, the study was unable to assess whether the significant difference was related to individual risk or repeat/first time status of the donors. Other important variables affecting frequency are the catchment area of the blood donors in Pakistan. Urban areas have less prevalence than semi-urban areas.

Groundwater hydrogeochemistry and non-carcinogenic health risk assessment in major river basins of Punjab, India.

The Indian Punjab state is drained by the four rivers, along with a well-connected network of canals, and is now dealing with a slew of water quality issues and problems. In this study, basin-wise hydrogeochemical modelling of 323 groundwater samples and identification of NO3- and F- enrichment pathways in aquifer systems of Punjab were studied using different plots and multivariate statistics. To evaluate the groundwater quality and human health risks, an entropy-based water quality index and Monte Carlo simulation were used, respectively. Spatial distribution of NO3- indicated that its very high values were prominent in parts of southwestern Punjab falling under LSRB, along with few pockets in eastern and northeastern Punjab falling under MSRB and GRB. High NO3- values (> 45.0mg/L) were found in 15.0% of Ravi River Basin (RRB) groundwater samples, 22.86% of Beas River Basin (BRB), 23.52% of Middle Sutlej River Basin (MSRB), 36.9% of Lower Sutlej River Basin (LSRB), and 21.31% of Ghaggar River Basin (GRB). The spatial distribution of NO3- revealed elevated concentrations (> 100mg/L) in the southwestern part of Punjab, particularly in LSRB and localized pockets in the eastern and northeastern areas of Punjab within MSRB and GRB. High F- concentration (> 1.5mg/L) was observed in 15.12% and 21.31% groundwater samples of LSRB and GRB, respectively. Spatially southern parts falling under LSRB and GRB reflected high F- content (> 1.5mg/L) in groundwater. In LSRB, evaporative and anthropogenic processes influence the groundwater quality. The results of interionic relationships and statistical analysis revealed that NO3- has anthropogenic origin and that is being aggravated by leaching,the evaporation processes, animal excreta, septic tanks and irrigation return flows in LSRB and GRB, while F- is geogenic in nature. Hazard index (HI) values in 14.63%, 22.2%, 24.6%, 49.58%, and 34.42% samples for adults and 21.95%, 27.7%, 42.0%, 72.3%, and 52.46% samples for children were higher than unity in RRB, BRB, MSRB, LSRB, and GRB, respectively. The basin-wise demarcation of various groundwater quality parameter and assessment of human health risk would be of significance for the management of water resources.

To Determine Dynamic Properties of Soil After a Particular Seismic Activity - A Case Study

Although though India is one of the world's emerging nations, one of the biggest issues our country is currently facing is how to make people's lives safer by reducing the vulnerability to earthquake dangers in the future. According to previous research conducted by a number of researchers and seismologists, ground shaking can seriously harm any infrastructure, pose risks to any country (whether it is developed or developing), and also be potential to demolish urban structures, including structures that can directly affect the economic standard of any country. In addition to the loss of life and property destruction that this natural disaster frequently results in, it also frequently leaves an economic crisis in its aftermath. In this manner, seismic tremor investigation of any site assumes a significant part for safe development in future.
 A one-dimensional site-specific site response investigation was carried out at selected locations in the Hoshiarpur area in Punjab for the current research to examine how the dynamic characteristics of the soil changed in response to a given input ground motion during seismic loading. A crucial responsibility for both structural and geotechnical engineers to assess the interaction between soil and structure is the research of ground response parameters for soil and rock.

Exploring the Challenges and Opportunities: A Multifaceted Study on the Experiences of Senior Citizen Migrants in Urban Areas of Punjab, Pakistan

This comprehensive research explores the urban experiences of elderly migrants in Punjab, Pakistan, providing insights into the obstacles and possibilities they face. The study employs a comprehensive approach to investigate various aspects of the mobility of elderly individuals, taking into account social, economic, and cultural factors. Its objective is to uncover the challenges that seniors encounter when adjusting to urban life while acknowledging the potential benefits and opportunities associated with their relocation. This is achieved by examining the perspectives of senior citizens. The research utilized qualitative research design and case study methodology for data collection. The results reveal that senior citizen migrants in urban Punjab face significant obstacles, including social isolation, limited healthcare access, and financial difficulties. Navigating unfamiliar urban environments, these individuals often face with social isolation, leading to a sense of alienation. The challenges are compounded by restricted access to high-quality healthcare, impacting their overall well-being. Furthermore, in urban settings, traditional support systems may weaken, potentially affecting financial stability and exacerbating economic constraints. The insights from the study can guide the development of policies and interventions aimed at improving the welfare of this demographic in urban areas.

Exploring the Challenges and Opportunities: A Multifaceted Study on the Experiences of Senior Citizen Migrants in Urban Areas of Punjab, Pakistan

This comprehensive research explores the urban experiences of elderly migrants in Punjab, Pakistan, providing insights into the obstacles and possibilities they face. The study employs a comprehensive approach to investigate various aspects of the mobility of elderly individuals, taking into account social, economic, and cultural factors. Its objective is to uncover the challenges that seniors encounter when adjusting to urban life while acknowledging the potential benefits and opportunities associated with their relocation. This is achieved by examining the perspectives of senior citizens. The research utilized qualitative research design and case study methodology for data collection. The results reveal that senior citizen migrants in urban Punjab face significant obstacles, including social isolation, limited healthcare access, and financial difficulties. Navigating unfamiliar urban environments, these individuals often face with social isolation, leading to a sense of alienation. The challenges are compounded by restricted access to high-quality healthcare, impacting their overall well-being. Furthermore, in urban settings, traditional support systems may weaken, potentially affecting financial stability and exacerbating economic constraints. The insights from the study can guide the development of policies and interventions aimed at improving the welfare of this demographic in urban areas.

Initial Challenges and Opportunities for the Parents of Children Born with ERB's Palsy in Rural and Urban Areas of Punjab, Pakistan

Initial Challenges and Opportunities for the Parents of Children Born with ERB's Palsy in Rural and Urban Areas of Punjab, Pakistan

First detection and genetic identification of Rickettsia spp. from ticks collected from rodents in north India

BackgroundChanging climatic conditions and invasion of ticks in urban areas have led to a greater number of cases of tick-borne diseases, thus, becoming a matter of increasing concern. Tick borne rickettsioses are one of the important emerging diseases worldwide. Knowledge of epidemiology of the vector and pathogen in the community is essential in order to understand and prevent the transmission of the disease to healthy population. MethodsIn our present study, we trapped rodents in selected areas of Chandigarh and Punjab in north India. The rodents were screened for the presence of ticks which were further screened for the presence of rickettsial agents. PCRs targeting 17 ​kDa and gltA genes were carried out followed by Sanger sequencing of the positive amplicons followed by phylogenetic analysis of the sequences. ResultsA total of 17 ticks were collected out of which one (Rhipicephalus sanguineus) was found to be harboring a Rickettsia sp. PCR targeting gltA and 17 ​kDa genes of rickettsia were put up and Sanger sequencing was performed. Phylogenetic analysis revealed the sequences to be closely related to Rickettsia rhipicephali. ConclusionThe current study establishes the presence of rickettsial agents in the community. Although Rickettsia rhipicephali is a non-pathogenic agent, the study encourages more vigorous community surveillance should be carried out in order to determine the exact burden of rickettsial agents in our community. To our knowledge, this is the first study reporting Rickettsia rhipicephali in India.

Effect of soil salinity on germination and survival of brinjal (Solanum melongena L.)

The present investigation was conducted at vegetable research farm, Department of Vegetable Science, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana. The desired levels of salinity were induced using sodium chloride, magnesium sulphate and calcium chloride in ratio of 2:1:1. Seeds of 102 brinjal genotypes were sown in plug trays. Each brinjal genotype was sown in two (Plug trays) sets. In each plug tray, 28 plants were sown. In one set of plug tray, normal water was applied. When seedlings attained 2 leaf stage (after 10–12 days of sowing), saline water treatment was applied to evaluate seedling survival under salt stress conditions. While in the second set of plug tray, saline water was applied immediately after sowing to evaluate germination percentage under salt stress conditions. It has been observed from the investigation that these genotypes were categorized as 19 genotypes under tolerant, 39 as semi-tolerant and 44 were susceptible to salinity on the basis of nursery and morphological screening trials. Out of these 19 tolerant genotypes, brinjal genotypes (SL-8-PB-1-3- 1-4 (Small Long), KBSR-343-1 (Small round) and BL-215 (Long)) may be recommended for future studies in salt-affected area of Punjab.

Risk factors associated with obesity among housewives residing in urban areas of Punjab, Pakistan

The rising magnitude of obesity among housewives residing in urban areas is a matter of highly concern. There is no denying the fact that obesity is a health risk and it triggers the co-morbidities. Therefore, the present research study was conducted with concerted effort aiming to find out the risk factors associated with obesity among housewives in the urban areas of District Multan, Punjab. The target population of the study was housewives. A sample of 100 housewives with Body Mass Index >25 was drawn by using simple random sampling after completing the listing process. The interview schedule was conducted and well-structured research questionnaire was used to collect the data. The descriptive and inferential statistics such as frequency, percentage, mean percentage and chi-square was employed. The results indicate that aging (p-Value<0.001), educational status (p-Value <0.003) and any form of physical activity (p-Value<0.001) were strongly associated with the obesity among housewives. Regarding the knowledge, 65% of the housewives were equipped with the knowledge of the risk factors associated with obesity among housewives residing in the urban areas of District Multan, Punjab.

Geospatial Assessment of Managed Aquifer Recharge Potential Sites in Punjab, Pakistan

Groundwater is a precious natural resource that is vital to various aspects of life. Punjab is experiencing groundwater stress due to urbanization and population growth, leading to overuse and reduced aquifer recharge. Sustainable groundwater supplies can only be created through better management and artificial recharge techniques. This study uses multi-influencing factor, literature-based, and combined techniques to identify and characterize groundwater-managed aquifer recharge potential sites (GWMARPSs) in Punjab. There are limitations to the previous work in this field, and these factors have not been used to estimate GWRPSs in the study area. The study uses GIS and RS techniques to overlay twelve geo-informative layers, with rainfall being the most significant factor. High-quality data and observations from the field are incorporated into the model. The study classifies the GWMARPSs into five categories, with Punjab having 0.34%, 13.29%, 60.68%, 25.26%, and 0.43% of the least, poorly, moderately, well-, and highly suitable sites. Punjab’s southern regions are least suitable for recharge, while some areas in eastern and northern Punjab are well-suited for recharge. Alluvial plains, valleys, low-lying areas, and areas with volcanic landforms are classified as least to poorly suitable zones. Model predictions are validated using piezometric level data and ROC and exhibit good performance (AUC, 0.74). This study could serve as a baseline for future groundwater research.

Comparative detection efficacy of primers targeting SpeI-AvaI restriction fragment and small subunit ribosomal RNA gene of Babesia bigemina

The objective of the study is to evaluate the comparative detection efficacy of primers targeting SpeI-AvaI restriction fragment and small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) gene of Babesia bigemina by employing conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on 783 animals (296 cattle and 487 buffaloes) of low lying (bet) area of Punjab. The detection rate of SpeI-AvaI and SSU rRNA PCR assays was 3.96% (31/783), and 6.64% (52/783), respectively. Among cattle and buffaloes, prevalence of B. bigemina was higher (P<0.01) in cattle by both the primers. The sensitivity and specificity of SSU rRNA PCR as compared to SpeI-AvaI restriction fragment PCR was 100% and 97.2%, respectively. The blast analysis of the nucleotides of the sequenced amplicons of Ludhiana isolates of SpeI-AvaI and SSU rRNA PCR assay of B. bigemina showed 83 and 100% similarity with available sequence in Genbank. The analysis of evolutionary divergence revealed that range of divergence was lying between 0.000 to 0.011 between SSU rRNA sequence with the other sequences of B. bigemina as well as Babesia species. To conclude, the primers targeting SSU rRNA gene are a better tool for amplification of the B. bigemina.

Comparative detection efficacy of primers targeting SpeI-AvaI restriction fragment and small subunit ribosomal RNA gene of Babesia bigemina

The objective of the study is to evaluate the comparative detection efficacy of primers targeting SpeI-AvaI restriction fragment and small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) gene of Babesia bigemina by employing conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on 783 animals (296 cattle and 487 buffaloes) of low lying (bet) area of Punjab. The detection rate of SpeI-AvaI and SSU rRNA PCR assays was 3.96% (31/783), and 6.64% (52/783), respectively. Among cattle and buffaloes, prevalence of B. bigemina was higher (P<0.01) in cattle by both the primers. The sensitivity and specificity of SSU rRNA PCR as compared to SpeI-AvaI restriction fragment PCR was 100% and 97.2%, respectively. The blast analysis of the nucleotides of the sequenced amplicons of Ludhiana isolates of SpeI-AvaI and SSU rRNA PCR assay of B. bigemina showed 83 and 100% similarity with available sequence in Genbank. The analysis of evolutionary divergence revealed that range of divergence was lying between 0.000 to 0.011 between SSU rRNA sequence with the other sequences of B. bigemina as well as Babesia species. To conclude, the primers targeting SSU rRNA gene are a better tool for amplification of the B. bigemina.

Exploring the contributions of non-farm income diversification for improving soil and water conservation practices and reducing rural poverty in rain-fed areas of Punjab, Pakistan

Attaining agricultural sustainability and eliminating poverty are the key challenges of rural areas. Non-farm income diversification is a vital livelihood strategy that endorses sustainable agriculture and alleviates poverty. Considering the land degradation and poor economic situation of Pakistan's rain-fed areas, the current research examined the potential effects of non-farm income diversification on household poverty and adopting soil and water conservation (SWC) technologies. A survey of 441 farmers was conducted in rain-fed areas of Punjab, Pakistan, and for econometric analysis, the propensity score matching (PSM) technique was employed to explore the objectives. The results signified that diversified farmers were more likely to adopt SWC practices and were less vulnerable to poverty. The findings suggest that farmer-based organizations and agricultural extension activities must be strengthened as they support non-farm income diversification, thus facilitating investment in soil and water conservation technologies and reducing poverty.

Evaluation of the Physiological Response of Ornamental Summer Season Annuals to Salinity Stress

Over the past several decades, the southwest zone of Punjab is encountering various problems such as waterlogging, high use of surface canal water for irrigation and swift rise in water demand lead to stagnation in saline zone due to salinity ingression. Due to salinization, most of crops failed to grow, therefore, identification of salt tolerant plants and to check the level of tolerance to salinity in order to prevent mortality plants in salt affected areas is highly required for environment sustainability. To understand these salinity issues, the present study was conducted at Punjab Agricultural University to screen four ornamental summer season annual species suitable for salt affected areas of Punjab. Selection of plant species was done on the basis of physiological changes in plant leaves. The one month old seedlings of four different annual species were grown in 8 inch earthen pots were exposed to five different concentrations of sodium chloride salinity stress (control, 30, 60, 90, and 120 mM). The factorial completely randomized block design was followed in the experiment with three replicates in each treatment. The physiological parameters viz., chlorophyll, carotenoid, relative leaf water content, electrolyte leakage and proline content were calculated to depict the salt tolerant ornamental summer season annual species. It has been concluded on the basis of physiological response, the maximum salt tolerance was observed in P. grandiflora followed by B. scoparia, T. erecta and Z. elegans.

Investigating Health Impact on Women Due to Domestic Cooking Fuels and Associated Social Issues in Rural Punjab

Biomass fuel, an economical organic renewable source of energy, is still intensively used for burning purpose in majority areas of rural Punjab. It mainly includes agricultural crop residues and animal dung which is easily available and found in abundance. But it’s the dilemma of present times, that while on one side biomass fuel is facilitating the lives of residents of rural areas by providing them a low-cost solution to meet their energy requirements, at the same time it is posing a potential risk to health of rural women. These women are directly exposed to the health hazards of gases being released from burning of biomass fuel due to longer contact hours. This research was conducted with the purpose to investigate how domestic cooking fuel is affecting the health and lives of women directly or indirectly. This research work was conducted in year 2019, in three districts of Punjab, Okara, Hafizabad and Multan, with 480 data samples collected evenly in the research area. There were two slots, based on different age groups, defined for data collection. In response to investigating different social parameters and their association with health impact, it was found that rural women with age group between 20 to 40 (slot 1) were suffering from mental health issues at higher rate of 64 % while those with age group above 40 (Slot 2) were found at higher risk to physical health issues with 83 % of the studied population. Similarly, rural women belonging to slot 1, exhibited 87 % of workload and domestic fuel management responsibilities. The findings of this research exhibited significant variation of health impact on women for different sources of biomass fuel.

'MH-21,' A NOVEL HIGH-YIELDING AND RUSTS RESISTANT BREAD WHEAT VARIETY FOR IRRIGATED AREAS OF PUNJAB, PAKISTAN

Developing high-yielding wheat varieties tolerant to abiotic and biotic stresses is a challenge wheat breeder currently face. Wheat Research Institute (WRI), Ayub Agricultural Research Institute (AARI), Faisalabad, Pakistan, has released 65 wheat varieties, including MH-21, for several zones since its establishment in 1906. MH-21, with the varietal code V-12304, gave 11.2% and 10.28% more grain yield than the check variety (Faisalabad-08), respectively, in preliminary (2011–2012) and regular yield trials (2012–2013). Then, testing it in outstation yield trials proceeded over 21 locations in Punjab province (2013–2014) and 18 locations all over Pakistan (2014–2015, 2017–2018, and 2019– 2020) for yield and disease constancy, simultaneous with agronomic field trials and quality lab testing during 2014–2018 and 2014–2016, respectively. It exhibited an amber seed color, semi-erect growth habit at booting, erect flag leaf attitude, hairiness auricle, awned yellowish ear, and elevated shoulder and beak shape of glumes traits. DNA fingerprinting of MH-21 ensued to compare its genetic background with previously registered 21 wheat varieties. Given the promising stable performance in multi-locations over the years for better grain yield, nutritional quality, and resistance against rusts, the Punjab Seed Council approved V12304 in 2021 with the name „MH-21‟ for general cultivation in irrigated areas of Punjab, Pakistan.

FH-444: A HIGH YIELDING AND SUPERIOR FIBER QUALITY UPLAND COTTON VARIETY SUITABLE FOR COTTON GROWING AREAS OF PUNJAB, PAKISTAN

FH-444 is a new Bt cotton variety which was released during the year 2020-21 by Cotton Research Station, Ayub Agricultural Research Institute, for irrigated areas of Punjab, Pakistan to maintain fiber quality and production through gradually replacement of existing cotton cultivars to avoid the yield losses caused by insect, pest and unexpected disease attacks. The FH-444 possesses drought tolerance and very good combination of traits to meet the requirements of the farmers, pickers, ginners, spinners and textile industry. The evaluation of this promising line was started during 2011-12 in different yield tests viz: preliminary & advance yield trials, Provincial Coordinated Cotton Trial (PCCT), National Coordinated Varietal Trial (NCVT), Distinctness, Uniformity and Stability (DUS) Trial, Agronomic trials, 1.25 Acre trials etc. In preliminary yield trials, FH-444 showed 45.96% increase in yield (3592 kg/ha) over standard variety FH-113 (2461 kg/ha) during 2011-12 while in advanced yield trials, FH-444 exhibited 23.61% increase in yield (3408 kg/ha) over standard variety FH-113 (2757 kg/ha) during 2013-14. It was also found that the effects of Cotton Leaf Curl Disease (CLCuD) were low (1.7 %) in FH-444 during growing season of 2014-15, while FH-142 showed increased incidence of attack (4.9%). FH444 demonstrated significant resistance with respect to thrips, whitefly, jassid and pink bollworm infestation. In present study it was found that the variety FH-444 possesses higher yield potential and will contribute to improve cotton yield and production under different stress conditions.

Mapping nitrogen status in soil and foliage of cotton producing area of southern Punjab, Pakistan

Mapping nitrogen status in soil and foliage of cotton producing area of southern Punjab, Pakistan

Management of damping off disease in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) using potential biocontrol agent Pseudomonas fluorescens

Biocontrol is a potential strategy adapted to control the fungal plant pathogens thus bio-prospecting to find novel native siderophore and enzyme producing Pseudomonas isolate for the management of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) damping off disease under the prevailing conditions of Punjab state. In the present study, a total of 15 isolates of Pseudomonas fluorescens isolated from rhizospheric soils of tomato growing areas of Punjab and evaluated by dual culture plate confrontation assay, of which, two isolates (Pf10 and Pf6) showed maximum antagonistic activity against damping off pathogen (Rhizoctonia solani) with a zone of inhibition 14.30 mm and 11.53 mm respectively. These Pseudomonas isolates (Pf10 and Pf6) were also analyzed for their siderophore production and enzymatic activity. They were found to effectively produce siderophore and cell wall degrading enzymes such as chitinase and β-1,3 glucanase with higher antagonistic activity against Rhizoctonia solani. The present study was carried out at the Plant Pathology Research Farm, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab during 2017 and 2018 to confirm the bio-efficacy of these Pseudomonas isolates. Amongst the isolates, talc-based bioformulation of Pf10 isolate when applied as the seed+soil treatment had exerted strong inhibition against Rhizoctonia solani in tomato. Therefore, based on the findings, it was concluded that Pseudomonas fluorescens played a significant role as a potential biocontrol agent against damping off disease in tomato.

Exploring cattle sheds as complementary avifaunal habitat niches in rice dominated agricultural areas in Punjab, India

Avian diversity has often been studied in agricultural habitats, but ornithological aspect of cattle sheds has never been studied. This exploratory study was conducted with the objective of studying the potential of cattle sheds for sustaining avian abundance and diversity in rice dominated agricultural areas. The study was done in Rice Field Ecosystem (System I) and Cattle Shed Ecosystem (System II) during 2019 and 2020 monsoon crop season from selected villages, namely, Dangon, Pakhowal and Sarabha (district Ludhiana), Punjab. It was recorded that 26 avian species (mainly of grassland habitat) were present in cattle sheds from a total 34 avian species (wetland, grassland and open countryside inhabiting species) observed in rice fields, which reflected that cattle sheds support a wide proportion of avian fauna and complement rice fields in supporting and preserving avian abundance and diversity. There is immense need to explore and accordingly lay emphasis on boosting dairy as allied sector so that cattle sheds can be exploited in preservation of diverse avian populations and thereby reinforcing approach of sustainable agriculture. Keywords: Avian diversity, Avian feeding guilds, Cattle Shed, Grassland birds, Rice crop