Malakand Division Research Articles

Effectiveness of Continuous Professional Development Teachers-Training Programmes: From Trainee Teachers' Perspectives

This study seeks to determine the effectiveness of continuous professional development (CPD) programs from trainee teachers' perspectives in the Malakand division. The researchers used a quantitative research approach to test hypotheses. A self-constructed questionnaire based on the opinion of trainee teachers was administered before and after the intervention (CPD). Data were collected from 266 trainee teachers in training centers in three districts of the Malakand division. The results revealed significant differences in the opinion of trainee teachers regarding content knowledge, instructional roles, ethics and professionalism, classroom management skills, and pedagogical knowledge. They perceived that after the training a significant increase took place in their perceptions regarding five constructs. The study recommended that trainee teachers as well as in-service teachers be provided ample chances to enhance their content, pedagogical, and content pedagogical skills. The government must provide a handsome amount for the conduction of CPD for teachers to equip them with modern teaching methods and skills.

School Heads Leadership Competencies: A Comparative Analysis between the Perceptions of Male and Female Secondary School Teachers

This study seeks to investigate the insights of teachers about leadership competencies of secondary school heads in Malakand division. The study population consisted of 8481 teachers working in three districts i.e. Swat, Malakand and Dir lower. By using cluster sampling probability sampling method, 635 teachers were randomly selected as sample of the study. A highly valid and reliable questionnaire gathered data from secondary school teachers, revealing that heads exhibit strong competencies. Technical competency was highly observed, while conceptual competency was less so. No significant difference was found between male and female teachers' perceptions of school heads' leadership competencies. The study recommended that both pre and in-service trainings and leadership development programs may be arranged for heads to enhance their leadership competencies to effectively manage school activities. Senior teachers may also be involved in different school activities.

Analysis of the Training Needs for Science Teachers in Classroom Assessment at Secondary Level

The purpose of the study was to explore the perception of Science teachers and school Principals about the training needs of science teachers in classroom assessment practices at the secondary level in two sampled districts of Malakand division. The population of the study comprised the science teachers and principals of two districts Swat and Malakand. The study was descriptive and quantitative. The data were collected by using survey questionnaires and analysed by using appropriate statistics through SPSS version 26. The results indicated that both science teachers and principals were not satisfied with science teachers’ classroom assessment practices and added that they may need intensive training in classroom assessment practices at the secondary level. Therefore, it was recommended that the science teachers should be trained in theory and classroom assessment practices for continuous formative assessment and feedback.

Myths and Realities: How Different Forms of Superstitious Beliefs Create Good and Bad Luck for People in Pakistan through an Anthropological Lens

The present research explores various forms of superstitious beliefs that are commonly practiced, despite being inconsistent with rational thought and known laws of nature. These beliefs are often followed by individuals in their daily routines, in the hope of attracting good luck and avoiding bad luck. The study was conducted in the Lal Qala District of Dir Lower, Malakand Division, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Data was collected from 23 participants using purposive sampling, through in-depth interviews and participant observation. A qualitative approach was employed, and primary information was supplemented with empirical data to analyze the different forms of superstitious beliefs and their underlying themes. Thematic analysis revealed that various superstitious beliefs, such as stepping below a ladder, encountering cat with black color passing one's path, considering specific dates like the 13th of March as unlucky, and beliefs related to weddings and colors, are widely practiced to either attract or avoid future occurrences of good or bad luck. However, it is suggested that eliminating these superstitious beliefs from society can be achieved through proper religious training, the spread of education, the dissemination of positive and scientific knowledge, and the constructive role of media.

Development and Preliminary Validation of Health Service Measurement Scale (HSMS) for Measuring Effectiveness of Health Care Services in Universities

The aim of this study was to develop and validate a Health Service Measurement Scale (HSMS) for measuring the effectiveness of health care services in public sector universities. For data collection, a deductive method was used. Based on review of literature, a survey questionnaire was developed and administered to 484 teachers from three public universities of Malakand division: university of Swat, university of Malakand and University of Sheringal (SBBU) upper Dir. The scale was developed based on DeVellis (2003) four phase scale development procedure. Factor Analysis technique was utilized for assessing factors which affect the health care services in universities. This study identified four important factors affecting the health care services in universities. These factor were clear communication skills, professional behavior, clinical competency and patient satisfaction. The scale may be used to enhance the effectiveness of the health care units inside the universities regarding provision of necessary treatment as per the approved protocol of health industry. The findings of this study further provide key insights to the management to review the health services and policy makers to enact effective health care policies for the universities. The limitations of the study along with recommendations are provided for future research.

Changing Cancer Trends in District Dir, Pakistan: Epidemiological Insights From a 10-Year Hospital-Based Study.

Background More alarming than the rise of cancer globally is its discreet changing profiles over the years. According to our knowledge, no new studies on cancer have taken place in Dir since 2004. Hence, we aimed to provide and analyze the cancer trends in district Dir, Malakand division, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), regarding its prevalence and incidence, and compare it nationally and internationally. Methods A retrospective study was conducted by collecting data from 2647 clinically diagnosed cancer patients of all ages in district Dir, between the years 2008 and 2017, from the Institute of Radiotherapy and Nuclear Medicine (IRNUM), Peshawar. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 20 and presented using different tables and figures. Results Out of the total patients, 52.7% were male and 47.3% were female. The most common types of cancers in both genders combined were breast (9.0%), acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) (6.0%), skin (5.7%), non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL) (5.6%), and brain tumor (5.2%). The age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) in males in 2017 was peaking in the age group 60-69 (2707.2) with the most prevalent cancer being NHL (7.7%). In females, ASIR was highest in the age group 30-39 (2500.8) with the majority having breast cancer (18.1%), and in children, ALL (30.9%) was most prevalent. Incidence was highest in 2014 with a staggering 15 cases/100,000 population. Cancer prevalence in females aged 50 and below was significantly higher (p<0.001) compared to males. Conclusion Our study highlights that cancer profiles in Dir in the past two decades have changed with certain results non-conforming to global and regional trends. A follow-up research should be carried out to further ascertain and analyze these diverging results in hopes of drawing a more concrete conclusion from these findings.

First report on prevalence, molecular characterization and phylogenetic study of Toxoplasma gondii infecting sheep of the Malakand Division of Pakistan

BackgroundToxoplasma gondii is an apicomplexan protozoan parasite that infects one-third of the population of the world, including humans, animals, birds, and other vertebrates. The present investigation is the first molecular attempt in the Malakand Division of Pakistan to determine the epidemiology and phylogenetic study of Toxoplasma gondii infecting small ruminants. MethodologyA total of (N = 450) blood samples of sheep were randomly collected during the study period (December 2020 to November 2021), and DNA detection was done using PCR by amplifying ITS-1 genes. SPSS.20 and MEGA-11 software were used for statistical significance and phylogenetic analysis. ResultsThe overall prevalence of T. gondii infection among sheep was 14.44 % (65/450). A high infection rate was found in more than five-year-olds at 18.33 % (11/60). Sequencing and BLAST analysis of PCR-positive samples confirmed the presence of T. gondii. Randomly, three isolates were sequenced and submitted to GenBank under accession numbers (PP028089–PP028091), respectively. The BLAST analysis of the obtained sequences based on the ITS-1 gene showed 99 % similarities with reported genotypes found in goats of Malakand, Pakistan (PP028089) and dogs of Brazil (MF766454). The study concludes that T. gondii is notably prevalent among the sheep population in the region, emphasizing the significant role of risk factors in disease transmission across animals and potentially to humans. Further research, zoonotic potential analysis, and targeted control measures are warranted to address and manage this parasitic infection effectively.

Harmonizing Progress: The Resounding Impact of Education on Women's Economic Empowerment

This study explores the transformative role of education in economically empowering women in District Dir Lower, Malakand Division, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. The research delves into the correlation between women's education and economic well-being, emphasizing education as a gateway for women to compete in the labor market, strengthen earning possibilities, and gain control over resources. The methodology employs purposive sampling to engage with 20 educated and employed women, using open-ended questions in interviews to capture authentic narratives. Thematic analysis is applied to unravel insights, and ethical considerations ensure confidentiality and cultural sensitivity. The qualitative data analysis unveils a rich tapestry of themes, emphasizing education's impact on women's employment and productivity. Educated women emerge as pivotal contributors to family and national income, participating actively in legislation and policy-making. The study underlines the importance of women's education as a gateway to economic growth, with higher literacy rates correlating to stronger GDP and GNP. The symphony of women's education is portrayed as a transformative force, empowering nations and fostering a brighter, more inclusive future. The study calls for government prioritization of girls' education, implementation of skill development programs, and gender-responsive labor policies to foster gender equality and women's economic empowerment.

Sero-epidemiology, Spatial Distribution and Phylogenetic Analysis of Toxoplasma gondii in Goats of Malakand Division of Pakistan

Sero-epidemiology, Spatial Distribution and Phylogenetic Analysis of Toxoplasma gondii in Goats of Malakand Division of Pakistan

Moderating role of Social Support on the relationship between Job Rotation and Job Performance among Academicians in Higher Education Institutions

This study examines the relationship between job rotation and job performance in the Higher Education Institutions of Malakand division of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, with the moderating effect of social support. For the data collection, the researcher used Simple random sampling to distribute the self-administered questionnaire among the 235 academician members. The data was analyzed using statistical tools through SPSS for the study's final results. It has been found that job rotation, job performance, and social support are positively correlated, indicating that rotation can enhance employee performance when coworkers support the employee. Furthermore, social support moderates the relationship between job rotation and employee performance in HEIs. Academicians can learn about study results from the university by supporting them and providing limitations and recommendations at the end of the study.

Ethnopharmacology Through Time: Tracing the Utilization of Folk Medicines in Malakand Division

This study explores ethnopharmacology through time in Malakand Division by revealing the historical and contemporary use of folk medicines. Malakand region serves as a gateway to various districts and tribal areas and possesses a cultural and archaeological heritage from ancient civilizations to the present day. Employing an interdisciplinary approach involving anthropology, pharmacology, and botany, the research traces historical footprints of medicinal plant use across diverse cultures. Approximately 80% of the world's population relies on traditional medicines and is facing challenges of over-exploitation of medicinal plant resources. Pakistan's diverse climates offer a wealth of medicinal herbs. The mixed-method methodology combines qualitative and quantitative techniques, revealing the persistence of ancient medical practices. The results showcase 48 herbal remedies associated with 46 plant species, emphasizing the integral role of plant-based treatments in the local healthcare system. Specific remedies for various ailments, along with a percentage distribution of plant parts used in remedies, highlight the versatility and resilience of plant-based medicine in the region. This exploration through time uncovers the untold stories of plant-based remedies and underscores the potential of traditional knowledge in addressing contemporary healthcare challenges.

Empowering hearts and shaping destinies: unveiling the profound influence of education on women's mate selection in Pakistan - a comprehensive mixed-methods study.

This study investigates the impact of education on women's empowerment in the realm of mate selection within Malakand Division, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Employing a mixed-method research approach, the study conducted 30 semi-structured interviews with educated women and distributed a Likert Scale questionnaire to 500 women. The qualitative findings reveals that education significantly influences women's perspectives, guiding their priorities, and instilling a desire for compatibility and shared values in their relationships. Educated women also display resilience, confidence, and a readiness to challenge prevailing societal norms and gender stereotypes when selecting a life partner. Quantitative analysis establishes a statistically significant positive correlation between education and women's empowerment in mate selection. These findings underscore the pivotal role of education in enhancing women's agency and autonomy in a critical aspect of their lives. The study's implications extend to policy recommendations advocating for increased access to quality education and the implementation of gender-sensitive curricula in Malakand Division and analogous regions. Recognizing education's potential to empower women in mate selection is vital for fostering a more equitable and inclusive society.

Bioaccumulation of zinc in rice (oryza sativa l.) from River Swat, Panjkora, And Kabul Pakistan

Ecosystem contamination with heavy metals lead to the bioaccumulation of these elements in crops. Rice, a significant component of the human diet, can bioaccumulate heavy metals and is of public health concerns. Therefore, the current research aimed to investigate the bioaccumulation of the heavy metal zinc in several rice varieties from three rivers in Pakistan's Malakand Division. The Highest Zn concentration of 91.58± 6.25 mg kg−1 dry weight was observed in rice roots of China Basmati variety grown across River Swat, while the highest Zn concentration of 60.06 ± 4.41 mg kg−1 dry weight was observed in the stem of Mota Chawal on River Kabul. In a site-wise comparison of both River Swat and Kabul, the Zn concentrations in the stem of Sara Sela rice on River Panjkora were 55.5±4.37, showing significant differences among different sites on the rivers. Similarly, comparing metal concentrations in different rice varieties generally did not show significant differences between the varieties. Zn concentrations in rice were higher in the Swat River than in the rest in all cases. Bioaccumulation factor (BAF) values for Zn were in the order of soil &gt; roots &gt; stem &gt; leaves &gt; grains for River Swat and Kabul. In contrast, for River Panjkora Zn concentration, the order was soil &gt; stem &gt; root &gt; grains&gt; leaves, respectively. Zn absorption by rice in the form of ions or particles generally affects plant phenotypic, physiological, and molecular development; hence, it must be considered in present varieties for the future.

Simple Signs for Complex Problem

Objectives: To find simple clinical signs for diagnosing pulmonary embolism on bedside.&#x0D; Methodology: This was a hospital based cross sectional observational study conducted in cardiology department Saidu teaching hospital from July 2019 to December 2020. 89 patients of either sex and all age groups with suspected pulmonary embolism (PE) were included. Clinical data and basic tests of all these patients were obtained, then according to ESC diagnostic algorithm patients were divided into low, intermediate and high probability groups. 74 patients with intermediate and high probability went for CTPA, while 15 patients with low probability were exclude from study. In 67 patients pulmonary embolism was confirmed on CTPA. Clinical data of these 67 patients was analyzed for most common presenting symptoms and signs.&#x0D; Results: Data was available on 67 patients with confirmed PE, 58.2% were male and 41.8% were female. Mean age of study population was 53.15+/-16.29. Patients from different parts of Malakand division were included. 95.5 % patient presented with new onset dyspnea, 1.5 % presented with isolated chest pain, while 3% presented with other symptoms. 62.7 % patient had provoked and 37.3% had unprovoked PE. Mean heart rate of study population was 99.63. 95% patients had oxygen saturation of less than 96%. Other common findings included normal chest examination, sinus tachycardia on ECG, normal chest X-ray, and some form of right ventricular abnormality on Echo.&#x0D; Conclusion: Patient with new onset Dyspnea, resting Tachycardia, oxygen saturation below 95% at rest or mild exertion, and no other explanation for these findings should be evaluated for pulmonary embolism with CTPA.

Deforestation And The Ecological Implications: The Consequences Of Deforestation On The Biodiversity Of Malakand Division, Pakistan

This study is about the deforestation and its ecological implications in the selected region of Malakand Division, Pakistan, once called the densely forest area. The locality is currently facing threats from anthropogenic activities. The study is explorative in nature aiming at bridging the available knowledge gap and to inform evidence-based conservation initiatives in the region for policy makers. Spatial and temporal dynamics of deforestation are investigated, alongside direct and indirect impacts on plant and animal species. The methodological framework involves GIS analysis, field surveys, and community engagement. Initial findings reveal a commendable community awareness of deforestation, with diverse perspectives on causes and specific affected areas. Recommendations advocate enhanced monitoring, community involvement, and policy reforms. The study emphasizes the urgency of sustainable conservation strategies in preserving Malakand's biodiversity.

COVID-19 pandemic and its prevalence in northern areas of Pakistan

Objectives: This study aimed to find the prevalence of COVID-19 in Northern Areas of Pakistan. This research will help researchers better understand the outbreak's tendencies and provide an estimate of the region's epidemiological stage. Material &amp; Methods: This Cross-sectional retrospective study was conducted at Anwar Hospital, Anwar Clinical Laboratory, Saidu Sharif Swat (KP) Pakistan. Samples of all suspected COVID-19 patients who come for COVID-19 screening were included from March 2020 to 18 September 2021. COVID-19 screening was done using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). Results: A sample of 2537 suspected COVID-19 patients were screened in this study. A total of 970 cases were positive and 1567 were negative by PCR. The prevalence of COVID-19 was 38.23%. All participants ages ranged from 9 to 70 years. Conclusion: As indicated by this study the prevalence of COVID-19 is high due to lack of awareness regarding SARS-CoV-2 infection transmission among the general population of Malakand division. Lack of SOPs compliance is the second reason for the high prevalence of COVID-19.

Investigating the Problems Being Faced by the Judicial Libraries Users: A Quantitative Study Conducted in Malakand Division Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Overall, judicial libraries play a critical role in supporting the legal profession, promoting access to justice, and preserving the history of the law and the judicial system. Therefore, the major aim of this research was to investigate the problems being faced by judicial library users in the Malakand division of KPK. To meet the objective of the research, the researcher employed a quantitative research design with a closed-ended survey questionnaire for the purpose of collecting data. The data were collected from Judges and Advocates. There were 310 participants who participated in this study. According to the statistics of the participants, there were 243 males and 67 females. The statistics suggest that the majority of the participants were males. The collected data were analyzed by SPSS software, t-test, and ANOVA test. The problems found by the researcher include a lack of computer terminals in the digital library, libraries' Lack of prescribed textbooks, Slow internet speed, special skills required to use legal resources, Non-availability of law-related digital resources, Library Location of books very difficult, Lack of trained or professional staff in the library, Lack of knowledge regarding availability of electronic resources and services, No subscription for desired journals, Printing, and Scanning and photocopy problems, and Lack of OPAC facility.

Perceptions of College Principals and Faculty Members Regarding Administrative Problems and Job Performance

Efficient administration of educational institutions is vital for their advancement and growth. Principals play a key role in providing conducive environment for instruction and students’ academic achievement. This study aims to examine the viewpoints of college principals and faculty members regarding the challenges faced in administration and their performance as college principal. A quantitative approach was used to investigate this research problem, employing a descriptive survey design to gather and analyse data. The research study focused on principals and faculty members from government degree and postgraduate colleges for boys and girls in the Malakand Division, Pakistan. A sample of 140 faculty members and 28 principals was selected by using stratified random sampling technique. Data from the participants were collected by using a self-developed questionnaire, which was validated by a panel of experts and its reliability was found through Cronbach’s alpha values which were found for administrative problems and job performance as 0.732 and 0.856 respectively. The study results showed that college principals faced various administrative problem included problems related to teaching and learning process, lack of availability of resources, maintaining good relationship with community, lack of financial resources, lack of capacity building programmes, and political interference. These administrative problems in turn effect lack of exhibiting instructional leadership, evaluating teachers and students’ performance, maintaining conducive working environment, preparing and utilizing budget, and implementing policies. Capacity building and continuous professional development programmes may be worthwhile strategies for improving the administrative, managerial and leadership roles of college principals.

Phenotypic Classification of Eye Colour and Developmental Validation of the Irisplex System on Population Living in Malakand Division, Pakistan.

Eye colour digital photographs and buccal swab samples of 893 individuals of different age groups were collected. Multiplexed SNaPshot single base extension chemistry was used, and the genotypic results were analysed. Snapshot data were used for eye colour prediction through the IrisPlex and FROG-kb tool. The results of the present study found brown eye colour to be the most prevalent eye colour in comparison to intermediate and blue coloured. Overall, individuals with brown-coloured eyes possess CT (46.84%) and TT (53.16%) genotypes. Blue eye-coloured individuals are solely of the CC genotype, while individuals of intermediate eye colour carry CT (45.15%) and CC (53.85%) genotypes in rs12913832 SNP in the HERC2 gene. It was also revealed that brown-coloured eyes individuals were dominant among all age groups followed by intermediate and blue. Statistical analysis between particular variables and eye colour showed a significant p-value (<0.05) for rs16891982 SNP in SLC45A2 gene, rs12913832 SNP in HERC2 gene, rs1393350 SNP in SLC45A2, districts and gender. The rest of the SNPs were non-significant with eye colour, respectively. The rs12896399 SNP and SNP rs1800407 were found significant with rs16891982 SNP. The result also demonstrated that the study group differs from the world population based on eye colour. The two eye colour prediction results were compared, and it was discovered that IrisPlex and FROG-Kb had similar higher prediction ratios for Brown and Blue eye colour. The results of the current study revealed brown eye colour to be the most prevalent amongst members of the local population of Pakhtoon ethnicity in the Malakand Division of northern Pakistan. A set of contemporary human DNA samples with known phenotypes are used in this research to evaluate the custom panel's prediction accuracy. With the aid of this forensic test, DNA typing can be supplemented with details about the appearance of the person from whom the sample was taken in cases involving missing persons, ancient human remains, and trace samples. This study may be helpful for future population genetics and forensics studies.

A Paradigm Shift towards Beneficial Microbes Enhancing the Efficiency of Organic and Inorganic Nitrogen Sources for a Sustainable Environment

The use of beneficial microbes as biofertilizer has become fundamental in the agricultural sector for their potential role in food safety and sustainable crop production. A field trial was conducted to study the influence of beneficial microbes on the efficiency of organic and inorganic sources. The experiment was conducted in two consecutive years (2008–2009 and 2009–2010) in a farmer’s field at Dargai Malakand Division. A randomized complete block design was used with four replications. The results revealed a significantly higher straw and grain nitrogen concentrations for the treatments receiving 50% N from urea + 50% N from FYM + BM, followed by the treatments receiving 50% N from urea + 50% N from (FYM + PM) + BM and 120 kg N ha−1 from urea fertilizer, respectively. Comparing the relevant treatments with and without BM, an increasing trend in N concentrations in straw and grain was observed with BM. The results revealed the highest grain total nitrogen, straw total nitrogen and total nitrogen uptake by wheat crop for the treatments receiving 120 kg N ha−1 from urea, followed by the treatments receiving 50% N from urea + 50% N from PM + BM and 50% N from urea + 50% N from (FYM + PM) + BM. Moreover, after comparing the relevant treatments with and without BM, for the parameters mentioned, an increasing trend in nitrogen uptake was observed. Significantly higher total soil nitrogen was obtained for treatment with 50% N from urea + 50% N from FYM + BM, followed by the treatment with 50% N from urea + 50% N from (FYM + PM) + BM or 50% N from urea + 50% N from PM + BM, respectively, as compared to the control treatment plot. Markedly higher soil mineral nitrogen was obtained for the 50% N from urea + 50% N from (FYM + PM) + BM treatment, followed by the treatment with 50% N from urea + 50% N from FYM + BM and 50% N treatment from urea + 50% N from PM + BM, compared to the control treatment. Comparing the relevant treatments with and without BM, an increasing trend in total soil N (g kg−1 soil) and soil mineral N (mg kg−1 soil) was noted with BM application. From the results, a significant increase in soil organic matter status (g kg−1 soil) due to application of organic and inorganic fertilization was summarized. Significantly higher soil organic matter (g kg−1 soil) was recorded for the treatment receiving 50% N from urea + 50% N from FYM + BM compared to untreated control plots. Our study further revealed an increasing trend in soil organic matter status (g kg−1 soil) when comparing the relevant treatments with and without BM.