Azad Kashmir Research Articles

Biogenic synthesis of MoO3 nanoparticles using extract of Lactuca Serriola plant of Asteraceous flora: palynomorphological studies and environmental remediation applications

The development of environmental remedies using ecofriendly and green technologies is attracting increasing research attention. Herein, the green synthesis of molybdenum oxide (MoO3) nanoparticles (NPs) using extract of selected Asteraceous flora species is reported for the first time along with the investigation of the degradation ability for organic pollutants and pollen morphological characteristics of wetland species of the family Asteraceae. An X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed the formation and crystalline structure of the MoO3 NPs. Fourier transform infrared spectra of Lactuca Serriola extract indicated the presence of capping agents, reducing agents, and phytochemicals. Scanning electron microscopy images revealed the almost spherical shape of the MoO3 NPs. A qualitative and quantitative palynological investigation of 21 species belonging to 12 genera of the Asteraceae from different wetlands of Azad Jammu and Kashmir is also reported. The MoO3 NPs degraded 99% of crystal violet dye within 30 minutes with a degradation rate of 0.022 min−1. The cost-efficient and green synthesis method for MoO3 NPs with high catalytic activity provides a new platform for the development of photocatalysts.

DNA barcode for phylogenetic analysis of genus Morus species from Azad Jammu and Kashmir

DNA barcode for phylogenetic analysis of genus Morus species from Azad Jammu and Kashmir

Erysipheneelamensis, a new powdery mildew fungus (Ascomycota: Erysiphaceae) from Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan

A new powdery mildew species, Erysiphe neelamensis, was found on Celtis eriocarpa in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan. The identification was based upon morpho‐anatomical features and results of a molecular sequence analysis. This species is morphologically distinguished from phylogenetically allied Erysiphe species by having chasmothecia with fewer, shorter appendages and a small number of asci and ascospores. A phylogenetic analysis of the nrDNA of ITS region of E. neelamensis supports the involvement of a novel species of the genus Erysiphe. The new species is described, illustrated and compared with all allied species, along with a phylogram showing its inferred phylogenetic position.

Comparison of hermetic and conventional bags for maize seed preservation in Azad Kashmir, Pakistan

Maize (Zea mays L.) is a major cereal crop used as a staple food worldwide for decades. Farmers store their produce in porous polypropylene bags under humid conditions which negatively affects their quality. In this study, maize seeds were stored in hermetic and conventional bags with an initial seed moisture content of 13.5% (wet basis) and 96.3% germination for 8 months at four major maize growing districts (Athmuqam, Hattian Bala, Muzaffarabad and Rawlakot) of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan. Due to high ambient relative humidity conditions (>80%), an increase in moisture was observed in seeds stored in porous conventional bags (14. 7%). This increase was because of high initial relative humidity conditions (79–85%) in conventional bags. Seed moisture content remained unchanged in hermetic bags and internal humidity was 59–60%. As a result of hermetic conditions, germination and seed integrity were maintained in hermetic bags compared to conventional woven bags. Germination drastically decreased in conventional bags and fell to 9 % (Athmuqam), 13 % (Hattian Bala), 11 % (Muzaffarabad) and 12 % (Rawlakot). Higher physical quality losses of maize in conventional bags were because of infestation activity of live insect pest populations (S. zeamais, R. dominica and T. castaneum) that initiated 21.7–23.7 % weight loss in polypropylene bags. Hermetic bags protected seeds from insect pest attack and maintained seed quality. Higher contamination of aflatoxin B1, G1, B2 and G2 (ppb) was recorded in seeds stored in conventional bags as compared to hermetic bags. Aflatoxin B1 was maximum in conventional bag at Hattian Bala (8.93 ppb) followed by Muzaffarabad (6.68 ppb), Athmuqam (5.02 ppb) and Rawlakot (0.71 ppb). In conclusion, the use of hermetic dry chain storage preserves maize seed quality and thus can have a significant impact on the livelihoods of smallholder farmers of humid areas.

Hydrological risk assessment for Mangla Dam: compound effects of instant flow and precipitation peaks under climate change, using HEC-RAS and HEC-GeoRAS

Dams play a pivotal role in water resource management by storing and supplying water for a multitude of purposes. However, the looming threat of dam breach floods necessitates meticulous research and the simulation of potential failure scenarios. These endeavors are essential not only for comprehending the gravity of dam break floods but also for identifying vulnerable regions and informing emergency response strategies and land-use planning initiatives. This study employs a two-dimensional hydraulic model within the HEC-RAS (Hydrologic Engineering Center and River Analysis System) software to conduct an extensive dam breach analysis specifically focusing on the Mangla Dam located in Azad Kashmir, Pakistan. The analysis encompasses the prediction of various breach parameters, including the hydrograph of the breach flood, peak flow rates, arrival times of the flood, and the creation of inundation maps. Of primary concern is the Probable Maximum Floo, which drives the dam collapse model under unsteady flow conditions, accounting for both piping and overtopping failure scenarios. This study discerns the breach outflow hydrograph through the utility of HEC-RAS tools and evaluates hydraulic conditions at critical downstream locations. To dynamically route flood waves, the breach outflow hydrographs are harnessed. Furthermore, the HEC-RAS model is executed with breach parameters derived from five distinct empirical approaches, with ensuing outcomes subjected to rigorous comparative analysis. A comprehensive sensitivity study pertaining to breach parameters is also carried out to ascertain the sensitivity of peak flow and maximum stage. The results reveal peak flow rates of 174,850 m3/s and 177,850 m3/s in the downstream vicinity adjacent to the dam, translating into corresponding flooded areas of 379 km2 and 394 km2 attributable to piping and overtopping failures, respectively. The analysis of Land Use Land Cover data demonstrates that in the event of piping failure, 217 km2 of agricultural land and 56 km2 of urban areas would be completely submerged. Conversely, overtopping failure would inundate 220 km2 of agricultural land and 59 km2 of urban areas. The utilization of advanced remote sensing data, combined with flood modeling insights, equips engineers and stakeholders with invaluable knowledge. This knowledge, in turn, underpins strategic planning and well-informed decision-making processes, essential for addressing the potential global repercussions of similar catastrophes.

The Surface and Ground-water Contamination in Sub-himalayas and Quality of Water in Poonch Region Azad Kashmir

The surface and ground water contamination in rivers, lakes, streams, wells and springs, in Sub-Himalayas have been evaluated. This is a critical question in determining the quality of water. Water quality depends on solutes and gases dissolved in Water. Quality is a result of natural physical and chemical state and any alteration made by human activities. The chemical and micro-organisms impact the quality of ground water coming from many sources, like agricultural chemicals 20%, animal wastes 10%, disposal of wastes from hospitals 8% , waste from cities 20%, septic tanks 10%, sewage water 12%, organic waters 5%, landfills 2%, leakage of underground tanks 7%, from food and air 2%. Carcinogenic compounds are cancer risk about 1%. A comprehensive research was conducted on surface and ground water in district poonch and adjoining areas. In this research Physical and chemical quality of water was evaluated to know the cause of diseases in Sub-Himalayas. The cause of diseases in the area of study is investigated. The data was also collected from hospitals. The hepatitis was reported 20%, typhoid 10%, gastroenteritis 33%. Chronic diseases like cancer about 10%, neurogenic problems 15%. Bone softness and heart failures are very common. The water samples were collected and immediately transported to the PCSIR laboratory for testing. The major elements in the water are Ca, 45.0-> 75;0 mg/l, Mg, 34.5-> 13.3 mg/l, Na, 22.7-13.0 mg/l, K, >2.7 -1.0 mg/l, HCO3, > 472-215.14 mg/l, Cl2, >24.0-2.43 mg/l, SO4, > 51.0-42.0 mg/l, NO3, 7.0-0.63 mg/l. The minor constituents include. Mn >6-1.0 mg/l, F, >2-2.0 mg/l , NO3, 4.7-6.8 mg/l. The trace elements such as Fe, 2.1-0.1 mg/l, Pb, >5.0-3.5 mg/l, Cu, 2-1 mg/l, Zn, >5.0-1.0 mg/l, Ni, >4.0-1.0 mg/l, Mn, 5.0-1.0 mg/l. The other elements Hg, Cr, were reported. The PH, 5.6-8.8 in drinking water create stomach diseases. During rainy season turbidity remain between 6.2- >13. Number of patients coming daily in the hospital and those admitted were also investigated. Most of the patients have kidney stone, lungs infection, dehydrogene, anemia, obstruction in nervous system, goiter, bronchitis, sore, throat infection, pneumonia, neuralgia, jaundice, malaria, cholera, gastroenteritis, typhoid, dysentery, skin diseases were reported. All diseases were waterborne.

ASSESSMENT OF ALL TYPES OF LABORATORY ERRORS IN THE TERTIARY CARE CARDIAC FACILITY LABORATORY

A prospective examination of laboratory errors was performed during three months from July to September 2019 at the Rawalpindi Institute of Cardiology (RIC), a 272-bed tertiary care hospital serving the Punjab region and parts of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK). The study aimed to thoroughly evaluate error incidence rates across the complete testing cycle, considering the pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical phases. During this time, nurses, physicians, and medical assistants from various hospital wards submitted samples and request forms to the clinical pathology laboratory at RIC. For a total of 17,917 patients, 73,540 tests were carried out. The overall observed laboratory error rate for the entire testing procedure (TTP) was 1.43%. Notably, pre-analytical mistakes made up the most significant percentage (0.82%), followed by post-analytical errors (0.51%) and analytical errors (0.10%). The data were carefully examined, and the results were presented using figures, charts, and tables to show the prevalence and magnitude of various mistake types. According to the distribution pattern, overall error rates had significantly decreased over the previous ten years. Despite this development, the largest error prevalence was still seen in the pre- and post-analytical processes. Interestingly, errors were frequently found during the pre- and post-analytical procedures outside the lab. To reduce the likelihood of mistakes, RIC undertook several initiatives, and the study highlighted these efforts, highlighting the significance of the laboratory testing procedure for mistake prevention throughout all testing phases.In addition to offering insightful information about the frequency of errors at RIC, this three-month descriptive analysis highlighted ongoing efforts to improve patient safety and lower laboratory errors. The observed gains over the past ten years are evidence of the success of adopted tactics. The results show how important it is to maintain constant watchfulness and employ methodical procedures to guarantee the accuracy and dependability of laboratory testing procedures, improving patient care and safety.

Patterns of Common Dermatological Conditions among Children and Adolescents in Pakistan.

Background and Objectives: Dermatological disorders are highly prevalent among children in Pakistan. The present cross-sectional study aims to identify the spectrum of dermatological conditions among children and adolescents in Pakistan. Materials and Methods: A total of 582 patients (50.9% males; 49.1% females) were included in the study based on their age (5.7 ± 4.1 years), dermatological condition, and epidemiology. The youngest patient was aged ten days, whereas the eldest was seventeen. Age criteria were further stratified into three categories: infants and toddlers (≤5 years), children (≥5 to <12 years), and adolescents (≥12 to <18 years). Amongst them, the majority was from Punjab (81.6%), while the other regions included were Azad Jammu and Kashmir (14.4%), Islamabad (3.3%), and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (0.7%). Results: Scabies was the highest reported skin condition with 281 (45.55%) patients, followed by 114 (19.6%) with eczema, 60 (10.3%) with dermatitis, 33 (5.7%) with tinea capitis, 17 (2.9%) with tinea corporis, 16 (2.7%) with impetigo, and 15 (2.6%) with folliculitis. Other conditions include urticaria, burns, infections, pediculosis, tinea inguinalis, tinea faciei, nappy rashes, alopecia, warts, tinea incognito, tinea cruris, and acne vulgaris. The chi-squared test showed a high prevalence of tinea corporis and acne among adolescents (12-17 years), whereas eczema, dermatitis, and impetigo were more prevalent among infants and toddlers. Conclusions: Pets or livestock and poor hygiene were found to be highly reported risk factors for many dermatological conditions like scabies and fungal infections. Dermatological conditions are common in younger individuals, but unfortunately, many children do not receive the desired medical assistance.

Influence of Mother's Employment on Children's Education Case Study of District Poonch Azad Jammu and Kashmir

Recently, there have been increasing numbers of working mothers with young children. The growing trend in the participation of working mothers in the labor force poses challenges for families, particularly in developing countries. One of these challenges concerns both the management of households and their profession since the employment of mothers has a significant impact on the well-being of children. The main aim of the present study was to dig out the influence employed mothers have on the education of their children. The research is based on primary data. The present study was conducted in District Poonch AJK. The qualitative research methodology was applied in the current research. The sample size was 17. An interview guide was used as a tool for collecting the primary study data. The gathered data was thematically analyzed. Findings highlight working mothers can contribute to the development of children. The study has found that the intellectual and economic resources of mothers contribute to the academic and cognitive development of children.

DPPH Scavenging Activities of Ethanolic Leaf Extracts from Ficus Species Found in Azad Jammu and Kashmir: Exploring Potential Sources of Natural Antioxidants

DPPH Scavenging Activities of Ethanolic Leaf Extracts from Ficus Species Found in Azad Jammu and Kashmir: Exploring Potential Sources of Natural Antioxidants

Tone Recognition of Pahari Language

Pahari is an under-resourced, endangered, and undocumented tonal language, spoken in Pakistan Administered State of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). Preliminary studies have established the notion, that the Pahari language has three discrete level tones; high, mid, and low. In the current study, tone distribution in monosyllabic words is measured with 45 iterations consisting of 15 high, 15 mid, and 15 low tones, collected from 5 native speakers of Pahari language. An attempt has been made to automatically recognize the phonologically contrastive tones in Pahari language, by using the Random Forest and the Linear Mixed Effect Models with f0 as a preliminary feature along with duration, intensity, F1, F3, and (Cepstral Peak Prominence) CPP. The results showed that the overall accuracy of the Random Forest was higher than the accuracy of the linear mixed effect model. Additionally, the mean f0 played a highly significant role in the prediction of tone while duration, intensity, F1, F3, and CPP played a less significant role.

Diagnostic Accuracy Of Hyperbilirubinemia In Acute Appendicitis

Objective: To determine the diagnostic accuracy of serum Bilirubin in cases of acute appendicitis keeping the histopathological findings as Gold standard.&#x0D; Study Design: Cross sectional validation study.&#x0D; Place and Duration of the Study: Surgical Unit, Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al-Nayhan Hospital (Combined Military Hospital), Rawalakot, Azad Kashmir, from Jan 2022 to June 2022.&#x0D; Methodology: A total of 380 patients aged between 18 to 65 years, who matched the inclusion and exclusion criteria suspected of acute appendicitis were included. Serum Bilirubin level was noted. Appendectomy was done. Specimen of appendix was sent for histopathology for confirmation of the diagnosis.&#x0D; Results: In our study, mean age of the patients was 34.015 with a standard deviation of 13.32. 65% (n=247) of the patients were males and 35% (n=133) were females. Frequency of acute appendicitis on histopathology was 82.89% (n=315) while 17.1% (n=65) had no findings of the disease. Validity of serum Bilirubin in diagnosing appendicitis using histopathology showed 57.36% (n=218) were true positive, 2.1% (n=8) were false positive, 15% (n=57) were true negative and 25.52 %( n=97) were false negative. Specificity, sensitivity, negative predictive value, positive predictive value, accuracy rate, positive likelihood ratio and negative likelihood ratio were 87.69%, 69.20%, 37.01%, 96.46%, 72.36%, 5.62 and 0.35 respectively.&#x0D; Conclusion: Serum Bilirubin is a useful marker for diagnosing the acute appendicitis and can be used as a good alternative diagnostic modality in suspected cases of acute appendicitis.

Ethnomedicinal utilization and conservation status of highland flora from Western Himalayas of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan

Ethnomedicinal utilization and conservation status of highland flora from Western Himalayas of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan

Detection, partial purification and characterization of Bacteriocin from Enterococcus species indigenous to Azad Jammu and Kashmir

Detection, partial purification and characterization of Bacteriocin from Enterococcus species indigenous to Azad Jammu and Kashmir

Causes Of Sectarian Extremism in Pakistan: An Emic Perspective Of Religious Scholars

Sectarianism is a problem that has a huge impact on people. The implications of sectarian violence are posing great threats to the peace process in the country. The society of Pakistan is by and large divided on ethnic basis and this issue is badly damaging the society on economic political as well as on societal basis. The purpose for present study is to investigate the reasons of extremism and sectarianism and to highlight the preventive measures for control of sectarianism. The Qualitative research design was used to conduct the study. Present research was conducted with different sect scholars in the district Muzaffarabad Azad Jammu and Kashmir. A six semi- structured, question interview guide was used for data collection and interview was recorded with 7 male and 1 female with their ages range from (35-65) and education (B.A - M.A). The consent form was design to seek consent for willingness to give interview and allow for audio recording of their interview from participants. An In-depth analysis of data was done through thematic analysis by Braun &amp; Clarke (2006). In depth analysis revealed that there is different Islamic views, division of groups, propaganda ,lack of faith, use of power, conflicts, cognitions, following the schools of thoughts and force against Islam regarding opinion of sectarianism. Different preventive measures are given which should be taken as, maintain the level of understanding among sectarian leaders, and work in individual capacity. This research helps researchers for better understanding of causes of sectarianism in Pakistani society.

Retraction: Ethnomedicinal and folklore inventory of wild plants used by rural communities of valley Samahni, District Bhimber Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan.

Retraction: Ethnomedicinal and folklore inventory of wild plants used by rural communities of valley Samahni, District Bhimber Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan.

How ambidextrous leadership enhances employee creativity: a quantitative approach

PurposeBased on the leader-members exchange (LMX) theory, the purpose of this paper is to examine the impact of ambidextrous leadership on employee creativity through ambidextrous behavior. The study also investigates an organizational culture that amplifies the positive influence of ambidextrous leadership on employee creativity.Design/methodology/approachPrimary data were collected form 300 permanent employees of the local government department of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). Hypotheses were tested by using Hayes PROCESS macro.FindingsResults indicated that ambidextrous style of leadership and employee creativity is mediated by ambidextrous behavior of employees. The findings of the study also established the fact that the relationship of ambidextrous leadership and employee creativity is subject to the organizational culture.Research limitations/implicationsThe current study was carried out in the local government department; researchers can conduct research by studying multiple government departments at once. In addition, the present study is cross-sectional; scholars in future can take a longitudinal approach to capture employee creativity at different points of time.Practical implicationsFor establishing a welcoming innovation atmosphere and assist workers' creative behaviors, ambidextrous leadership should be practiced by leaders from day-to-day operations. Leaders must create flexible abilities to adapt internal resources (knowledge and values) in the public sector into new behavioral patterns that encourage employee creativity.Originality/valueThis is the first study that investigates the ambidextrous behavior as a vital intervening mechanism in the ambidextrous leadership–employee creativity linkage. Further, this study provides first empirical evidence by study the organizational culture as a moderator in determine the impact of ambidextrous leadership on employee creativity.

Saffron spice quality in response to integrated nutrient management under lesser Himalayan conditions of Rawalakot Azad Jammu & Kashmir

Integrated nutrient management is an environment friendly approach of plant nutrition being used for crop productivity and improvement in soil quality on sustainable basis. A three-year multi-location experiment was conducted to estimate the spice quality of saffron subjected to the integration of organic and inorganic nitrogen sources. At each location, the experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design. The treatments were T1 = control (without organic/inorganic N source/amendment); T2 = Full recommended nitrogen (i.e. urea fertilizer @ equivalent to 100 kg N ha−1; UN100); T3 = Poultry manure (PM) @ equivalent to 100 kg total N ha−1 (i.e. PM100); T4 = Farm yard manure (FYM) @ equivalent to 100 kg total N ha−1 (i.e. FYM100); T5 = PM50+FYM50; T6 = UN75 + PM25; T7 = UN50 + PM50; T8 = UN25 + PM75; T9 = UN75 + FYM25; T10 = UN50 + FYM50; T11 = UN25 + FYM75 and T12 = UN50 + PM25+ FYM25. Among treatments, poultry manure (100%) and urea nitrogen with poultry manure (UN50 + PM50) significantly affected the quality attributes of saffron. On the other hand, among sites, the crocin, picrocrocin and saffranal contents were in order of Khaigala (23.81% crocin, 20.01% picrocrocin and 0.27% saffranal) >Trarkhel (19.04% crocin, 16.99% picrocrocin and 0.25% saffranal) and > Abbaspur (17.80% crocin, 15.45% picrocrocin and 0.23% saffranal). Similarly, among years, the crocin, picrocrocin and saffranal contents were significantly higher in the third year compared to the first and second year. In conclusion, the integration of organic nitrogen sources with inorganic nitrogen has the potential to improve saffron quality.

On Geographic Range, Diet and Conservation of Endemic Murree Hills Frog &lt;i&gt;Nanorana vicina&lt;/i&gt; (Stoliczka, 1872)

Murree Hills Frog, Nanorana vicina, is one of the under studied anuran species of South Asia. We hypothesized that the diet of Murree Hills Frog differed during breeding and non-breeding seasons. We found that the geographic range of the species in Pakistan is narrower than reported. It occurs in Tehsil Murree (District Rawalpindi, Province Punjab), District Abbotoabad (Province Khyber Pakhtunkhwa) and Districts Poonch and Bagh (Azad Jammu and Kashmir). We recovered 12 taxa from stomach contents during the breeding season. The most frequent food items included Coleopterans (60%, constant) and Hymenopterans (40%, secondary). The food items from order Coleoptera contributed the most in the stomach content volume (ml) 0.06, followed by Hymenoptera 0.05, and Isoptera 0.05. The frogs showed secondary degree of food preference for Coleopterans and occasional for other food items. We recorded ten food items during non-breeding season. The most frequent food items included Coleopterans (45%, secondary), Hymenopterans (40%, secondary) and Orthopterans (35%, secondary). The food items from order Coleoptera contributed the most in the stomach content volume (ml) 0.12, followed by Orthoptera 0.11. The species showed secondary degree of food preference for Coleopterans, Hymenopterans and Orthopterans and occasional for other food items. The food item taxa during breeding and non-breeding seasons did not differ significantly. We have reported major threats to the species and suggested research, conservation and management options.

TO DETERMINE THE LEVELS OF GOOD CHOLESTEROL-HDL IN THE PATIENTS HAVING ISCHEMIC STROKE AND DISEASE OUTCOME IN NEXT 2 WEEKS

To know about the levels of good cholesterol-HDL in ischemic stroke patients and disease outcomes in the next 2 weeks. This study was carried out from July 2021 to Jan 2022 at the Department of Medicine Divisional Teaching Hospital Mir Pur Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Inclusion criteria were any patient aged between &gt; 20 years old, both males and females admitted with sudden onset of focal neurological deficit. They diagnosed the CT brain as an ischemic stroke less than 24 hours old.HDL-C levels immediately after admission before starting aspirin and statins. The patient’s functional outcome was assessed by using the ADL scale at 2 weeks. The data collected was evaluated on SPSS. A total of 150 patients were included in the study. The mean age of patients was 60.16 + 1.35 years. There were 85 (68%) males and 40 (32%) females. One hundred-five patients (84%) had serum HDL-C levels less than the appropriate range, and 20 (16%) had serum HDL-C levels within the appropriate range. Patients with high HDL-C levels show statistically significant better functional outcomes (p-value 0.001). We conclude that high serum HDL-C levels are strongly associated with better functional outcomes 2 weeks after stroke, and patients with high HDL-C levels are at reduced risk of developing stroke.