bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Summer surface air temperature proxies point to near sea-ice-free conditions in the Arctic at 127 ka
Authors: Sime Louise Claire , Sivankutty Rahul , Vallet-Malmierca Irene , de Boer Agatha M. , Sicard Marie
Published: August 2022

Abstract. The Last Interglacial (LIG) period, which had higher summer solar insolation than today, has been suggested as the last time that Arctic summers were ice-free. However, the latest suite of Coupled Modelling Intercomparison Project 6 Paleoclimate (CMIP6-PMIP4) simulations of the LIG produce a wide range of Arctic summer minimum sea ice area (SIA) results, ranging from a 30 % to 96 % reduction from the pre-industrial (PI). Sea ice proxies are also currently neither abundant nor consistent enough to determine the most realistic state. Here we estimate LIG minimum SIA indirectly through the use of 21 proxy records for LIG Summer Surface Air Temperature (SSAT) and 11 CMIP6-PMIP4 models for the LIG. We use two approaches. First, we use two tests to determine how skilful models are at simulating observed proxies for ΔSSAT (where Δ refers to LIG-PI). This identifies a positive correlation between model skill and the magnitude of ΔSIA: the most reliable models simulate a larger sea ice reduction. Averaging the most skilful two models yields an average SIA of 1.3 mill. km2 for the LIG. This equates to a 4.5 mill. km2, or a 79 %, SIA reduction from the PI to the LIG. Second, across the 11 models, the averaged ΔSSAT at the 21 proxy locations is inversely correlated with ΔSIA (r = -0.86). In other words, the models show that a larger Arctic warming is associated with a greater sea ice reduction. Using the proxy record-averaged ΔSSAT of 4.5 ± 1.7 K and the relationship between ΔSSAT and ΔSIA, suggests an estimated ΔSIA of 4.4 mill. km2 or 77 % less than the PI. The mean proxy-location ΔSSAT is well-correlated with the Arctic-wide ΔSSAT north of 60° N (r=0.97) and this relationship is used to show that the mean proxy record ΔSSAT is equivalent to an Arctic-wide warming of 3.7±0.1 K at the LIG compared to the PI. Applying this Arctic-wide ΔSSAT and its modelled relationship to ΔSIA, results in a similar estimate of LIG sea ice reduction of 4.5 mill. km2. The LIG climatological minimum SIA of 1.3 mill. km2 is close to the definition of a summer ice-free Arctic, which is a maximum sea ice extent less than 1 mill. km2. The results of this study thus suggest that the Arctic likely experienced a mixture of ice-free and near ice-free summers during the LIG.
River incision, 10Be production and transport in a source-to-sink sediment system (Var catchment, SW Alps)
Authors: Petit Carole , Salles Tristan , Godard Vincent , Rolland Yann , Audin Laurence
Published: August 2022

Abstract. Detrital 10Be from continental river sands or submarine sediments has been extensively used to determine the average long-term denudation rates of aerial catchments, based on the assumption that the rate of cosmonuclide production by interaction of source rocks with cosmic radiations balances out the loss of these elements by surface denudation. However, the 10Be signal of in-situ produced sediments may be altered by the response time of mountainous catchments to high-frequency forcings; besides, transient sediment storage in piedmonts, alluvial plains, lakes or near the coast may also induce a difference between the erosive signal and its record in the sedimentary sink. Consequently, a significant part of the signal recorded in shallow-water sediments can be lost, as deep marine sediments may record simultaneously a signal coming from newly eroded source rocks along with one coming from the destabilization of previously deposited sediments. In this paper, we use the Surface Process Model Badlands to simulate erosion, deposition and detrital 10Be transfer from a source-to-sink sedimentary system (the Var River catchment, Southern French Alps) over the last 100 kyr. We first compare real denudation rates with the ones that would be extracted from in-situ produced sediments and from off-shore deposited sediments over time in order to examine how the 10Be record in sediments provides an accurate estimate of continental denudation rates. Then, we examine which conditions (precipitation rate, flexure, ice cover) permit to satisfy published measured river incision rates and 10Be concentration in submarine sediments. Our results, based on the Var catchment cosmic ray exposure dating and modelling indicate that, while river sands do accurately estimate the average denudation rate of continental catchments, it is much less the case for submarine deep sea sediments. We found that deep sea sediments have a different, and often much noisier 10Be signature than continental ones, and record a significant time lag with respect to actual precipitation rate changes, representing the geomorphological response of the submarine margin. The model which best fits both measured 10Be concentration in marine sediments and river incision rates on-land involves an increase in precipitation rates from 0.3 to 0.7 m.yr-1 after 20 ka, hence suggesting more intense precipitations starting at the end of the Last Glacial Maximum.
Why Do I Do What I Do? and For What and For Whom?: An Autoethnography of a Music Educator-Adult Learner
Authors: Suarez Elizabeth Susan V.
Published: August 2022

This autoethnography investigates my role as a music educator -adult learner within the context of choral pedagogy. To answer my questions, I drew from my childhood experiences and discovered that "modelling behavior” is an exemplary pedagogical tool for expedited but efficient choral rehearsal. This led to the development of the Guided Partnered Model (GPM), which has shaped the learners, choir members, and my music appreciation, developing self-esteem, self-worth, and musicianship. The ethnography method was used for data collection, and writing was assembled through hindsight. Furthermore, data analysis was gleaned from narrative inquiry, finding that the expressions of knowledge, skills, and values evidenced through stage performances have resulted in self-affirmation. This provided reflective opportunities to develop this autoethnography. This article could benefit choral conductors and music educators by enjoining them to refocus and reflect on their responsibilities and accountabilities that may enable them to discover innovative pedagogies in their classrooms.
My Rainbow Bestie: Formation and Dissolution of Straight-Gay Friendship among Ilocano Men
Authors: Merza Chester Alan R.
Published: August 2022

In straight-gay friendship, diversity is recognized, respected, and celebrated. It is an unorthodox connection between heterosexual and gay men. The alliance is affected by the facilitating or constraining social forces of affectional orientation and traditional masculinity. The qualitative study sought to explore and analyze the formation and dissolution of straight-gay friendships among 13 Ilocano men recruited through snowball and purposive sampling. Pagtatanong-tanong, an indigenous method of data gathering, was employed. Thematic analysis and investigator triangulation were performed for analysis and validation. Results revealed that for the formation phase, Ilocano men portrayed active and passive roles that shared interest, nourishing personality, and open-mindedness were strong social motivators. Likewise, the causes of possible dissolution were growing intimacy and physical distance. Termination can be either a direct or indirect approach. The understanding of this unorthodox alliance provided communal empathy and acceptance, and carried the mission to educate about the interaction of both communities. It is suggested that positive portrayals lessen stigma and discrimination.
INNOVACIÓN EDUCATIVA. REALIDAD O FICCIÓN
Authors: Montero Estravis Guiomar Mª , González Meléndez Alberto
Published: August 2022

Todo docente que se preocupe realmente del aprendizaje de sus alumnos innova día a día en el aula, pues cada día con cada grupo de alumnos es una nueva aventura. Pero además del reto diario que supone la enseñanza, desde los centros se deben establecer estrategias que fomenten la implantación de nuevas metodologías.

La estrategia seguida es motivar y fomentar el uso de nuevas metodologías que hagan partícipe al alumnado de su proceso de aprendizaje. En ese sentido, se aplican metodologías como el aprendizaje por servicio y el aprendizaje basado en proyectos, que hacen que el alumnado se involucre de forma más profunda en todo este proceso.

Todo proceso debe poder ser evaluado en términos de resultados, si bien estos en ocasiones no son medibles en baremos numéricos. Para evaluar los resultados se realizarán encuestas de satisfacción entre el alumnado y el profesorado, con el fn de medir el grado de satisfacción de todos los participantes.

Teniendo siempre como objetivo la mejora del proceso de enseñanza- aprendizaje de nuestros alumnos, muchos docentes del centro, con el apoyo del equipo directivo, apuestan por la implementación de nuevas metodologías y los proyectos multidisciplinares.
ENTENDIENDO EL NUEVO CURRÍCULO PARA PODER APLICARLO
Authors: Alén de la Torre José María
Published: August 2022

En el prólogo de Ley general de educación de 1970 se podía leer: “El éxito de una reforma como la que ahora se acomete solamente será posible con una mentalidad nueva e ilusionada en los que han de dirigirla y aplicarla”. A pesar de que han pasado más de 50 años, estas palabras siguen siendo de plena actualidad. Sin embargo, a lo largo de este tiempo hemos tenido varios currículos y leyes educativas que nunca han llegado a aplicarse en su totalidad en un importante porcentaje de las aulas de nuestro Estado. Son muchos los factores que han conducido a este hecho, pero para que un currículo pueda ser aplicado en las aulas, previamente ha de ser comprendido por el profesorado que lo ha de aplicar. El objetivo de este artículo es explicar la estructura del nuevo currículo LOMLOE de forma que el profesorado comprenda las relaciones y jerarquías que existen entre los elementos curriculares del mismo, la evaluación y las metodologías necesarias para su aplicación, la coeducación y la atención a la diversidad.
Matrix-Induced Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation (MACI) is Largely Effective and Provides Significant Improvement in Patients With Symptomatic, Large Chondral Defects: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors:   Department of Orthopedic Surgery, LECOM Health Millcreek Community Hospital, Erie, Pennsylvania, Grossman Alec D. , Den Haese Jr. Jason P. ,   Department of Orthopedic Surgery, LECOM Health Millcreek Community Hospital, Erie, Pennsylvania, Georger Lesley ,   Department of Biology and Mathematics, D’Youville College, Buffalo, New York, Mc Millan Sean ,   Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Virtual Health System, Marlton, New Jersey, Tuck Joshua A. ,   Department of Orthopedic Surgery, LECOM Health Millcreek Community Hospital, Erie, Pennsylvania
Published: August 2022

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to perform a meta-analysis for long-term patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures in Matrix-induced Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation (MACI) patients using the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) model. Materials and Methods: A literature search under the PubMed/Medline and Embase databases was conducted. Statistical significance was determined between the mean pre- and postoperative scores at each time point (1-, 2-, and 5-years). Cohen’s d analysis was used to measure the effect size (ES) in each group when compared to preoperative measurements to determine clinical responsiveness. Results: KOOS subscales at all long-term postoperative follow ups measured in this study showed significant (p-value <0.001) improvement when compared to preoperative scores. Furthermore, apart from KOOS sports and recreation (KOOS-SR) at 1-year postoperative follow up that showed a medium ES (ES, 0.761), all other KOOS subscales at long-term follow up periods showed a large (>0.8) ES on mean preoperative KOOS. Conclusion: Review of the literature demonstrate an absence of large meta-analyses for long-term PRO measures with the MACI procedure. It was found that all subscales were largely responsive when evaluated at >2 years after surgery. Based on these results, MACI is an effective treatment option for patients with symptomatic, full-thickness cartilage defects about the knee.
GM! Time to Wake Up and Address Copyright and Other Legal Issues Impacting Visual Art NFTs
Authors: Noh Megan E. , Odenkirk Sarah C. , Shionoiri Yayoi
Published: August 2022

The art world is slow to adapt to new technology.  Back in 2019, which seems like eons ago in Internet time, the Hiscox online art trade report noted that the online art market grew 9.8% in aggregate in 2018 to $4.64 billion, a slowdown from the growth experienced in the previous three years.  More telling, the same report notes that the “art world’s adoption of blockchain technology remains slow as convincing [use cases] fail to materialise.”  Of course, there are structural reasons and specific factors that make the art world unique in its steadfast commitment to “traditional” transactional formats, including the benefits reaped from in-person inspection of unique works executed in a physical medium, as well as the privacy and competitive benefits afforded by relative market opacity.

Like it or not, the art world is being forced to reckon with the metaverse.  During the COVID-19 pandemic, homebound collectors helped to buoy the online art market.  Online sales in 2020 accounted for “15.8% of all art sales, up from 7.5% in 2019,” with “sales in the first half of 2021 . . . up by 72% to $6.8 billion.”  Sales of non-fungible tokens (NFTs) reached around $3.5 billion in the first three quarters of 2021.  Although not a person, ERC-721, which sets forth a standard specification for tokens on the Ethereum-based blockchain, topped ArtReview’s annual “Power 100” list of the most influential people in the contemporary art world in 2021.

Specifically with respect to NFTs, art-world stakeholders appear to be of two camps: some curious and diving in, and others feeling skeptical.  What is it about NFTs that make certain art-world stakeholders wish they were a passing fad?  What is the legal landscape for this fast-growing portion of the metaverse?  And how can artists and purchasers protect themselves using pre-existing legal concepts and frameworks?  These are some of the questions that we discuss in this Article.  After covering what NFTs are and the application of the pre-existing U.S. copyright framework to the NFT format, we elucidate some considerations and issues that artists face when they decide to mint their work and sell NFTs.  We also address some concerns that purchasers of NFTs may have.  Because the environment is fast-paced and a single set of standards or guidelines has not yet been adopted, we discuss certain types of terms and conditions that currently govern the sale and use of NFTs.  In sharing recent case studies, contracts, and projects we have worked on, we hope to provide a snapshot—if fleeting—of the current dynamic world of NFTs.
The THE INFLUENCE OF EASE OF USE, E-SERVICE QUALITY AND PERCEIVED USEFULNESS AS AN INTERVENING VARIABLE AN INTENTION TO REUSE ZALORA ONLINE FASHION APPLICATION
Authors: Pratiwi Delya , Rahmiati Rahmiati , Abror Abror
Published: August 2022

This study aims to analyze (1) the effect of ease of use on perceived usefulness on Zalora users. (2) The effect of e-service quality on perceived usefulness on Zalora users. (3) The effect of ease of use on intention to reuse on Zalora users. (4) The effect of e-service quality on intention to reuse of Zalora users. (5) The effect of perceived usefulness on intention to reuse on Zalora users. The population on this study is Zalora users who had shopped more than once. The total sample of this research was 224 people by using online questionnaire. Data processing was carried out through SmartPLS software. The result of research show that (1) Ease of use has a negative and insignificant effect on perceived usefulness on Zalora users. (2) E-service quality has a positive and significant effect on perceived usefulness on Zalora users. (3) Ease of use has a positive and significant effect on intention to reuse on Zalora users. (4) E-service quality has a positive and significant effect on intention to reuse on Zalora users. (5) Perceived usefulness has a positive and significant effect on intention to reuse on Zalora users. For the future study it is better to explore more about variable that can influence intention to reuse.
The Competitiveness of Tourism Industry of Pakistan and India in the World Market: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Maqbool Muhammad Shahid , Bashir Furrukh , Hussain Altaf
Published: August 2022

The current study aims at measuring the competitiveness and comparative advantage of the tourism industry which is one of the most profitable non-technology-based economic sectors of Pakistan and India. This study applied several indices of revealed comparative advantage to examine competitiveness in travel and tourism industry experts and the data have been taken from International Trade Center (ITC) during 2005-2020. The results of RCA, RSCA, LnRCA and RCA# highlight that both Pakistan and India had a comparative disadvantage from 2005-2020. Travel and tourism imports from India and Pakistan had a comparative advantage, according to RMA index data, during the analysis. From 2005 to 2020, India and Pakistan had a net competitive disadvantage in this sector, according to the Relative Trade Advantage index. Moreover, the results of TBI portray that both countries were net-importer in the travel and tourism industry. The results of this study suggest that these countries should improve tourism businesses by investing more in tourism and increasing promotional activities.
A Systematic Review on the Use of Different Therapeutic Agents to Control Dengue Virus & other Associated Symptoms
Authors: Deeba Farah , Sohail Kaynaat , Iqbal Wafa , Altaf Asma , Younis Sidra , Iqbal Nadia
Published: August 2022

Dengue is an infectious viral disease transmitted by the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. Signs and symptoms associated with dengue vary with the severity of the disease. The present study aims to inquire about different therapeutic strategies used for the treatment of dengue. We investigated the effectiveness of different remedies such as fluid treatment, immunological treatment, antiviral treatment, herbal treatment, plant extract, and vaccines. Our review examines some of the published articles and studies on these strategies.  Google Scholar, Web of Science, and other library databases were searched for relevant articles on the nature of dengue fever, the transmission of dengue virus, a possible mechanism of action of papaya, antiviral agents, vaccines, immunological treatment, and plant extracts. Fluids were found to be effective in the maintenance of normal blood volume. C. papaya leaf extract and capsules are effective in decreasing thrombocytopenia associated with dengue fever, increasing WBCs, RBCs and stabilizing normal hematocrit levels and other effects. Anti-viral agents play a role in inhibiting the process of activity of dengue viruses by inhibiting them at different levels e.g. translation, replication, etc. Different vaccines are developed for the prevention of dengue fever, but there is one vaccine that is licensed in some particular countries where dengue is originating. Vaccines having different efficiencies and safety against all dengue virus strains are under the process of development in various institutes.
Prevalence of Hepatitis B & C in Bahawalpur Region, Punjab, Pakistan.
Authors: Khalid Muhammad , Rehman Saif ur , Ali Ahmad , Azam Sheikh Muhammad , Yaqoob Rabia , Faizan Muhammad , Hassan Shoaib , Ishtiauqe Abir , Ali Azam , Tousif Muhammad  Imran , Tahir Muhammad Mateen
Published: August 2022

Hepatitis is a worldwide problem. Until now, six types of viruses related to hepatitis has been discovered and among them hepatitis B and C virus are most prominent. Both of these viruses can be spread easily and can cause significant health damage. Blood transfusion, unprotected sex and reuse of used syringes and razors are the main reasons for transferring the virus. ICT kits are easily available in market which were used to detect the presence of hepatitis B and C. These kits are easy to use but their efficiency is not 100%. This study was conducted to observe the ratio of hepatitis in Bahawalpur region and it was observed that overall incidence of HCV is more as compared to HBV. The percentage prevalence in male population (37%) was higher than female population (35%) and the percentage of HCV is higher in poor families (41%) than middle class families (33%).   Furthermore, virus was more prevalent in middle aged   male then younger and older persons. As hepatitis is frequently propagating among the people of Pakistan, which causing great lose of man power and economy every year. However, Public awareness through health education program and seminars should be held in regular interval, and vaccination programs to decrease the burden of HBV and HCV from the population of Bahawalpur Punjab province of Pakistan. There is an urgent need to undertake such studies in other populations so that populations with higher prevalence can be identified and ways can be devised for the prevention and cure of these viral infections.
Prevalence of Diabetes Mellitus in the Human Population of Bahawalpur, Punjab, Pakistan.
Authors: Khalid Muhammad , Rehman Saif ur , Ali Ahmad , Azam Sheikh Muhammad , Yaqoob Rabia , Faraz Shah Syed Muhammad , Ali Azam , Zohra Mahjabeen , Abdullah Shaikh Muhammad , Imran Muhammad , Imran Tousil Muhammad
Published: August 2022

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a disease caused when the production of insulin from pancreas is reduced. Blindness, failure of kidneys and severe amputations may be the ultimate consequences associated with this disease. The patients suffering from diabetes are increasing at an alarming rate and WHO predicted that this number will go up with a very high acceleration in coming future (380 million patients by 2025). In Pakistan where the health budged is quite low as compared to its neighboring countries, prevalence of diabetes will be a huge burden to its economy. So, this study was conducted to estimate the ratio of diabetes patients in Bahawalpur city. A total of 716 peoples were tested and 308 were positive for diabetes mean the ratio was 43.01% which was quite alarming. Females were found to be more affected (43.62%) as compared to males (42.43%). This disease is more prevalent in families with normal socioeconomic statu. Based on these results we suggest a further in-depth study so in future we could cope with this emerging issue.
Determination of total Chloride/Bromide Ions and total Hardness of Drinking Water of Uthal and LUAWMS, Lasbela, Baluchistan, Pakistan.
Authors: Tariq Sonia , Aslam Muhammad , Hasni Khalil , Khan Alam , Ahmed Shabir , Khan Muhammad , Jan Salman , Khosa Mureed Hussain , Samiullah  , Afzal Fehmeeda
Published: August 2022

Water is essential for life. Its quality directly effects plants, animals and humans. Contaminated water can not only be a cause of several diseases in humans but also can affect the growth and quality of plants.  Drinking water of Lasbela university of Agriculture, water and marine sciences (LUAWMS) and Uthal city was tested for its total hardness and total chloride/bromide concentration. Mohr’s method was used to determine the concentration of chloride and total hardness was measured in terms of Mg/Ca concentration using volumetric analysis.  A total of five samples were collected. Three samples were taken from LUAWMS and two samples were taken from Uthal city. Samples taken from LUAWMS had higher amounts of chloride and Mg than the ones taken from Uthal city. The concentrations of total chloride/bromide in samples were 0.71, 0.3, 2.13, 1.77 and 2.13 g/L respectively and total hardness in samples were 4.86, 4.86, 9.72,11.42 g/L.
Fabrication and Determination of Radiation Sensitive Features of Tissue Equivalent Gels in Radiation Dosimetry and Diagnostic Radiology
Authors: Maria  , Atiq Atia , Buzdar Saeed Ahmad
Published: August 2022

Various types of gel dosimeters have been developed so far with the names PVAL gel and MAGIC gel, have been abundantly applied in medical physics. This work is divided into two parts. First, this study aims to analyze an ultrasonic imaging device for accurate patient positioning and organ motion detection during prostate radiotherapy. The images of gel were taken before and after the irradiation, using CT, ultrasound and MRI and dose profiles were plotted. This gel will be used as a prostate phantom for the applications in trans-rectal ultrasound imaging. Secondly, this work aims to develop a realistic artificial breast Using PVAL Gel. The gel was X-rayed on a digital mammography machine which has 3 different programs which will select 3 different beam energies. Results for 2 sample thicknesses were compared against Perspex. PVAL gel was confirmed to be a close match to the Perspex for three beam energies.
Effects of Combined Stresses of Salinity (NaCl) and Heavy Metal (NiCl2) Levels on Seed Germination and Growth of Citrullus colocynthis l.
Authors: Javeed Hassan Raza , Naz Nargis
Published: August 2022

Salinity and heavy metal stresses are a great hindrance to the germination and development of plants. Nickel (Ni) is an indispensable micronutrient for plants at low concentrations. However, the proficiency depends upon the plant types. Citrullus colocynth is a medicinal cucurbit weed. The contemporary target of the study is to appraise the influence of combined stresses by varying concentrations of sodium chloride and nickel chloride on germination, morphology, biochemical ions, and physiology of C. colocynth. Germination percentage, root length, shoot length, fresh weight, dry weight, number of leaves, Na+, K+, Ca++, Cl-, Ni+, chlorophyll a and b, proline, SOD and CAT of C. colocynth were measured with nine combined levels (100 mM NaCl + 50 uM NiCl2), (200 mM NaCl + 50 uM NiCl2), (400 mM NaCl + 50 uM NiCl2), (100 mM NaCl + 100 uM NiCl2), (200 mM NaCl +100 uM NiCl2), (400 mM NaCl +100 uM NiCl2), (100 mM NaCl + 200 uM NiCl2), (200 mM NaCl + 200 uM NiCl2) and (400 mM NaCl +200 uM NiCl2). This experiment was conceded out in a completely randomized design with four replications. Germination percentage, root length, shoot length, fresh weight, dry weight, and the number of leaves, K+, Ca++, chlorophyll a, and b decreased by increasing stress levels while Na+, Cl-, Ni+, Proline, SOD, and CAT increased with increasing stress levels. This species has a positive morpho-physiological response under low(100mM NaCl, 50 uM NiCl2) and moderate (200mM NaCl, 100 uM NiCl2) combinations of salt and heavy metals while tolerance was observed under high-stress levels(400mM NaCl, 200 uM NiCl2). It is concluded that this species can be recommended for phytoremdiation against combined salt and heavy metal stresses.
Unveiling ‘Reality’ behind ‘Social Reality’: Breaking Gender Stereotypes and Reconstructing Identities in Hamid’s Exit West
Authors: Mamona  , Khan Asra , Sadiq Uzma
Published: August 2022

The present paper is aimed at uncovering the fact that people’s gender identities which appear as ‘real’ turn out to be society’s predefined notions about men and women. Therefore, this study is intended at unveiling the existence of diverse gender realities hidden behind the socially constructed realities with reference to Hamid’s novel Exit West (2017). In order to analyze this perspective on gender in the said novel, Butler’s (1999) concept of ‘performativity’ serves as a valuable lens. Her concept of ‘performativity’ revolves around the importance of ‘doing’ rather than ‘being’ in defining one’s gender identity. By putting an emphasis on this notion of ‘doing’, the present research focuses on the analysis of the central characters namely Saeed and Nadia in Hamid’s novel. Maintaining Butler’s (1999) view, this study explores that Saeed and Nadia’s gender identities depend on what they ‘do’ in different contexts, rather than on what they ‘are’. It exposes how the protagonists have to assume certain roles under the compulsion of social norms in order to fit in the society they live in. In this sense, this research paper determines that Hamid’s novel not only unmasks certain gender stereotypes, but also breaks them by depicting its protagonists’ performance of alternative gender roles in different contexts. In the light of analysis done with the implication of Butler’s (1999) concept of‘performativity’, the paper also suggests that Exit West (2017) can be regarded as an important initiative to redefine and reconstruct the notion of gender identities through text.
Claustrophobia in Monica Ali’s Brick Lane: Negotiating the Past with the Present
Authors: Riaz Humaira , Shah Asfandyar
Published: August 2022

This article reworks the notion of “claustrophobia,” symbolically in relevance to expatriate fiction writing. Claustrophobia is an individual’s fear of being confined in an enclosed space. Qualitative in nature, this paper critically investigates Monica Ali’s Brick Lane (2003) that delineates a constant fear in the immigrant characters alienated from their host country. Globalisation owes much to provide rationale for the current study. Within the larger context of Diaspora, Sarup’s notion of migration, with both negative and positive implications, is used as a theoretical framework to study the juncture of expatriate desire of home and examine how exile causes an irrational fear entrapping immigrants in the wake of socio-cultural and economic differences. The present study refers to it as a state of “being ambivalent” and concludes that exile (forced or by choice) though deadening, regenerates life for those who exercise their energies to combat their existing situations. For others, it proves fatal. The study significantly provides an insight into South Asian culture and norms in comparison to British culture and through Ali’s work challenges the allegation against women’s writings being limited in experience, non-scientific and “womanly.
Synthesis of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles by Sol-gel method to Study its Structural Optical Properties and Morphology
Authors: Junaid Muhammad , Hussain Sonam Ghulam , Ain Noor Ul , Jabeen Raheela , Khan Waheed Qamar , Abbas Nasir
Published: August 2022

Zinc oxide nanoparticles can be classified as a multipurpose material, along with their distinctive features and applications in optoelectronic devices. This research looks at the morphological, structural, and optical features of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles. The sol-gel procedure has been used to form zinc oxide nanoparticles with zinc nitrate [Zn (NO3)2.4H2O] and sodium hydroxide [NaOH] as precursors. The main objective is to synthesize zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles by using the sol-gel approach because that is easy to implement and offers the capacity to adjust particle size and morphology by systematically monitoring reaction conditions. X-ray diffraction phenomenon, Scanning Electron Microscopy, and Ultraviolet-vis spectroscopy characterization techniques were used to determine the structural, morphological, and optical features of produced zinc oxide nanoparticles. According to the XRD examination, the produced nanoparticles are in a highly crystalline phase nature. The high crystallinity of ZnO is observed in all diffraction peaks, implying that Zinc oxide nanoparticles were synthesized properly using the sol-gel process. The UV-vis spectroscopy produced an absorption spectrum at 370nm due to ZnO nanoparticles. The Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) measurements reveal the surface structure and grains size of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles at a different resolution.
Management of Sucking Pests of early Season Cotton by Application of different Seed and Soil Insecticides in Pakistan
Authors: Sattar Muzammil , Sarwar Muhammad , Zahra Hina
Published: August 2022

Cotton is cash crop of Pakistan and sucking insect pests are serious issue especially in early cotton season. To cope with the issue, a field experiment was conducted to investigate the post emergence effectiveness of two seed and two soil applied insecticides on populations’ development of sucking insect pests in cotton. The seed applied insecticides i.e. Imidacloprid (Confidor 70 WS) and Thiamethoxam (Actara 70 WS) were applied to the seed before sowing. Two granular insecticides i.e. Aldicarb (Temik 10 G) and Carbaryl (Sevin 10 D) were applied in furrows with a modified applicator that was calibrated to deliver the desired rate. The results showed that all the tested insecticides were very effective in controlling the targeted sucking insect pests i.e. thrips, whiteflies and jassids as compared to untreated cotton. Conversely, the seed applied insecticides i.e. Imidacloprid and Thiamethoxam showed more effectiveness compared to soil applied granular insecticides i.e. Aldicarb and Carbaryl in reducing sucking pests’ populations. Such systemic insecticides applied as treated seed can be present in sufficient quantity in germinating plants leading to toxicity to pests, and helpful for safety of natural enemies. The population trends of the three principal sucking insect pests namely thrip, whitefly and jassid were varied significantly over the study months thereby indicating that the population build up was favoured by certain factors. Consequently, the use of seed applied insecticides can be a major component to put into practice in the integrated pest management technology of cotton.
Intercropping of Maize with Soybean under Integrated Nutrient Management showcases the role of Organic Fertilizers in Silage Production and Quality
Authors: Hamed Ali , Zamir Muhammad Shahid Ibni , Tanveer Asif , Yaseen Muhammad
Published: August 2022

Increase in forage production is required to meet the increasing demand, therefore, this study was planned for enhancing forage quality and quantity alongside synthesis of quality silage from corn stover. Hence, maize hybrids were intercropped with soybeans and given reduced and full doses of chemical fertilizers integrated with biofertilizers (plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) and/or organic fertilizers, compared to the recommended dose of fertilizers, and productivity of fresh fodder as well as the quality of silage were measured. It was observed that the PGPR-coated recommended dose of fertilizer (nitrogen 247 kg/ha, phosphorus 144 kg/ha, and potassium 92 kg/ha) showed maximum support to plants' growth (plant height, number of leaves, fresh forage production) and offered a better quality of silage through improvement in dry matter, crude protein, neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, hemicellulose and cellulose, and decrease in pH. Similarly, integration of reduced doses of chemical fertilizers (nitrogen 123 kg/ha, phosphorus 144 kg/ha, and potassium 92 kg/ha) with organic as well as biofertilizers also showed all morphological parameters of the forage, as well as lactic acid, dry matter, pH, hemicellulose, and neutral detergent fiber of the silage statistically at par with the recommended dose of chemical fertilizers.
Blueprinting in Coherence to Diagnostic Momentum: On Account of Cancer Detection in Bahawalpur Community
Authors: Yasmeen Manzoor  , Momina Dilshad  , Hassan Shahzad Gul , Hasan Murtaza , Nasir Muhammad , Tariq Tuba , Zafar Ayesha , Israr Shahbano , Tariq Fatima , Ain ul Haq
Published: August 2022

In the current era, cancer is a critical health problem. Purpose of the study was symptomatic analysis of cancer patients and medical evaluation of hematological and biochemical parameters of patients from different geographical areas of district Bahawalpur. A crosssectional study was done to find out the diagnostic timeliness in cancer patients. Out of 150 cancer patients, 53% patients were males and 47% females with  age from 15 years to 75 years. It has been shown that 76% of patients represent major symptoms of cancer while 24% of patients were showing minor symptoms. Furthermore, cancer patients were disturbed metabolical, hematological, and biochemical profiling. There were 83% of patients with anemia and 17% patients have normal hemoglobin count in males and 85 % of total female patients have low hemoglobin level while rest of 15% have normal hemoglobin count. Illiteracy is positively influencing the factors responsible for causing cancer with 53%, whereas 23% less than primary level education and only 1% of patients had completed their graduation. There were 31% of the patients lies in upper lower class of society, 28% lower class, Lower middle class 19%, middle class 14%, upper middle class 7% and only 1 % patients belong to high social status. This study will help to diagnosis the early cancer detection via biochemical and metabolic profiling.
Antimicrobial Activity of Selected Medicinal Plants against Clinical Bacterial Species
Authors: Kaukab Rakhshinda , Nisar Rameez , Abbasi Ansar Ahmed , Hameed Khalid , Masood Maleeha , Mahmood Raja Tahir
Published: August 2022

The current study was conducted to determine the antimicrobial potential of herbal plants against gram negative including Klebsiella pneumonia, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli, and gram positive bacteria including Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus species. Aqueous extracts of these herbs were used to check the antimicrobial susceptibility. The antimicrobial activity of these herbal extracts was determined by using agar well diffusion technique. The aqueous extract of Zanthoxylum alatum exhibited maximum antibacterial activity against Enterococcus fecalis and E. fecium with the inhibitory zone in the range 35 mm and 30 mm at 100 uL respectively. While aqueous extract of Gerwia asiatica showed maximum antimicrobial activity against E. fecalis with the inhibitory zone 28 mm. Whereas, aqueous extract of Juglans regia showed maximum antibacterial activity against P. aeruginosa and E. fecalis with the inhibitory zones 28 mm and 20 mm respectively. Some of the microbes showed no inhibitory activity such as, S. aureus exhibited resistance against both G. asiatica and J. regia antimicrobial contents. The results confirmed the therapeutic potency of these herbs for use in folk medicine. The results also encourage the usage of plants exhibiting antimicrobial activity against most of the food-borne and food-spoilage microorganisms.
Potential Role of Microbiota in the Prevention and Therapeutic Management of Infectious Diseases
Authors: Shahid Aqsa , Nasir Khadeeja , Aslam Sehar , Kamran Muhammad , Sarfraz Muhammad Hassan , Saleem Hafiz Ghulam Murtaza , Khurshid Mohsin
Published: August 2022

A huge diversity of microbial species continues to live with the human beings that are collectively known as microbiota. Several environmental factors can impact the microbial imbalance in the intestine which can play a starring role in health and disease conditions in humans. In this review, we have described the role of human microbiota in the individual’s susceptibility to infectious diseases such as gastrointestinal, respiratory, and female reproductive tract infections. Here, we have discussed how the indigenous microbiota interacts with the host and the invader microorganisms including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, and can modify the outcome of infections. The complex mechanisms of colonization resistance mediated by the microbiota as a direct and indirect way to fight against the infectious agents have been highlighted. Moreover, the approaches for the modulation of human microbiota for the prevention or therapeutic management of infectious diseases have been discussed especially the potential therapies directly targeting the microbiota such as probiotics, prebiotics, as well as fecal microbiota transplantation. Further studies need to focus on the complex interactions between the host and microbial species which could be helpful for a better understanding of the hidden potential of gut microbiota in the physiology of the host and could provide novel therapeutic targets and approaches.
A Comparative Historical Analysis of Declaration and Resource Allocation to Governance Indicators by Political Parties in Pakistan
Authors: Muhammad Ramzan Sheikh  , Muhammad Zahir Faridi  , Muhammad Imran
Published: August 2022

This comparative study has examined the truism of manifestos of political parties and pecuniary allocation of resources in their regimes in some common governance indicators for 2008-2021. The partisan theory predicts the macroeconomic policies consonance with political doctrine and mitigated the budget policy rules for the promulgation of their conceptions. This comparative study has analyzed overall different governments' total revenues; total expenditure and governance expenditures and provides guidelines for economic agents and votaries for making their future expectations during upcoming times. The logical framework of the study tri-angulated; used van Dijk’s PDA (Political Discourse Analytical) model by utilizing the method of Wodak (2001) and comparative budget analysis (Wildavesky, 1986). The results show that partisan resource allocations have a marginally significant effect on development expenditure (Public Services Development Programs and other PSDP) allocation in the federal budget on governance indicators in Pakistan. Some indicators like accountability and corruption, law and order and information and telecommunication show some partisan marginal effect but nothing different in resource allocation about e-governance, police and civil reforms. The PTI government has devoted more allocation to law and order and information and telecommunications rather than national accountability and corruption.
Promotion of English Language Under British Rule in Punjab (1849-1947)
Authors: Muhammad Safdar Sasrana  , Turab Ul Hassan Sargana
Published: August 2022

During the British invasion of India in the sixteenth century the Dutch East India Company developed markets in many cities and towns under their control. In 1765, the company's influence had grown to such an extent that the United Kingdom had actually controlled the largest part of the country. In the beginning, English was the only subject for local community through the work of Christian missionaries, and that there was no formal order for the introduction of the language of the masses of the people. However, in the mid-seventeenth, the English language became the language of government, and many of the elite classes of the Indian people asked for instruction in the English language as a tool for social progress. In 1857, universities were opened in Mumbai (Bombay), Kolkata (Calcutta) and Chennai. English was still considered as the language of government, the social elite and the national after independence, it was assumed that the English language would have to be gradually being replaced by the sphere of the state.[i] However, it was not clear that as to which language it should be replaced. In the beginning the Hindi language was the most spoken language, this seemed like the obvious choice, but the opinions were divided for different languages. In a country with a population of over 900 million people and more than a thousand languages, it was difficult to choose a national language but the native speakers of that languages will automatically gain access to a high social status, and it was easier to get power and influence. It had been expressed that English was not the native language , there was Hindi as official language in India and the English was just like Bengali, Gujrati and urdu language. Gandhi was also in favour of Hindi language and wanted to have a special status of English language for individuals. [ii]
 
[i]      Aziz k.k, M.A., The Development and reconstruction of university Education in Pakistan, London, 1951, P.26.
[ii]     Qureshi I.H.,Inaugural Address at the Educational Convention, 1959, Lahore, P.37.
Sexual Harassment at Workplace and its Impact on Working Women in Multan City (Pakistan)
Authors: Sara Gul
Published: August 2022

The research aims to investigate impact of sexual harassment on working women at workplace in Multan city. Working women not only have to face official problems as well as facing domestic matters also. Women constitute an important component of the labor force in Pakistan. But at the workplace, they have to face a problem of harassment during their job. This piece of work centered on the primary source of data gathered by author. Data has been collected from (N=150 respondents) from Multan city categorized in the following manners: 50 women were from education department (from Baha Uddin Zakariya University and women university) 30 women doctors were from Nishtar hospital, 20 Nurses from Nishtar hospital, 30 women from different banks and 20 women employees (sale representatives) from different cellular-organizations. The subjects of study were nominated by random sampling method and the age of respondents was 21-60 years. Data was collected through a semi-structural random sampling method through a questionnaire. In this article for collecting information from respondents both qualitative and quantitative data have been used and has been scrutinized through SPSS version-21(Statistical Package for Social Sciences) in simple form of frequency and percentage. The study concludes that harassment is a ground reality and working women face different problems at their workplaces in Multan city. So here is a need for government, educational department and civil society to introduce such policies which are in favor of working women, individual transport systems, women complaint centers must be established in every city of Pakistan.
An Analytical Study of the Mesopotamian Civilization
Authors: Iqra Ashraf  , Attiya Khanum  , Sohail Akhtar
Published: August 2022

One of the most ancient myths is that the waters of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, the abomination of civilization and nature, numerous wars, the number of love stories and legends that carry the world which is the holiest sea are among the places where it is located. Like the other contemporary civilizations i.e. Egypt in west and Indus in east the Mesopotamian civilization is also considered one of the important ancient civilizations of the world Tigris and Euphrates. The civilization remained as center of socio-political activities. Egypt is a safe haven for little to no war?The Egyptians deny that, contrary to a lush interest, the attack will take center stage. Different ethnic groups often experience key combat battles. Thousands of years ago, the two rivers opened to show that people who are interested in the history of fertility are a sign of life on the other side of the rivers. There are two different seas of origin, the center of which is the genus Alma, Assyria, Babylon, Samir, Akkad, and other notable tribes of Egypt. Tigris and Euphrates
Tổng quan nghiên cứu về các mô hình cố vấn học tập trên thế giới và ở Việt Nam
Authors: Cao Dao Thép , Trần Văn Đạt
Published: August 2022

Trong đào tạo theo học chế tín chỉ cố vấn học tập là một nét đặc trưng quan trọng. Cố vấn học tập có vai trò đặc biệt quan trọng trong đào tạo tín chỉ và ảnh hưởng đến sự thành công trong học tập, rèn luyện của mỗi sinh viên. Mỗi cố vấn học tập là một “mắt xích” trong mối liên hệ giữa sinh viên - chương trình đào tạo - nhà trường. Để hoạt động cố vấn học tập đạt hiệu quả đòi hỏi các trường đại học lựa chọn, tổ chức và vận hành được mô hình cố vấn học tập theo đặc điểm riêng của từng trường. Bài viết trình bày các nghiên cứu về các mô hình cố vấn học tập trên thế giới và ở Việt Nam. Kết quả bài viết sẽ là cơ sở lí luận và thực tiễn vững chắc để lựa chọn mô hình cố vấn học tập phù hợp góp phần nâng cao chất lượng đào tạo ở các trường đại học trong bối cảnh đào tạo theo học chế tín chỉ.