The Research Nexus
type: channel
description: The Research Nexus, (ISSN Online: 3106-7867; ISSN Print: 3106-7859), is a multidisciplinary, open-access, quarterly, double-blind peer-reviewed publication. The Journal undertakes to complete the double-blind peer-review process within one (01) month of submission and to duly notify the author(s) of the decision. The Editorial Board, while maintaining academic rigor and integrity, endeavors to provide timely and constructive feedback within the stipulated period, thereby ensuring an efficient and transparent publication process. The Journal is published under the auspices of the Factum Research Institute (SMC-Private) Limited, a legal entity duly incorporated and registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) under Registration # 0310960
publisher: Factum Research Institute (SMC-Private) Limited
language: en
publication name: The Research Nexus
items: OPTIMIZING HOSPITAL OPERATIONS AND PATIENT FLOW THROUGH PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS: A HEALTHCARE EVALUATION
items: THE GEOPOLITICS OF BORDER MANAGEMENT: THE ISLAMIC EMIRATE AND THE DURAND LINE DISPUTE
items: MIGRAINE STIGMA, PAIN PERCEPTION, AND TREATMENT SATISFACTION
items: BORDER SECURITIZATION AND SOVEREIGNTY: THE ISLAMIC EMIRATE AND THE DURAND LINE FENCING DISPUTE
items: SOCIOECONOMIC DETERMINANTS OF FEMALE CRIMINALITY: A CASE STUDY OF PAKISTAN
items: ENVIRONMENTAL PERSPECTIVES IN FIREFLIES IN THE MIST BY QURRATULAIN HYDER
items: BREAST CANCER KNOWLEDGE AND RISK AWARENESS AMONG NURSES: EVIDENCE FROM A TEACHING HOSPITAL IN LAHORE, PAKISTAN
items: CAREGIVING CHALLENGES IN HOME-BASED HEMODIALYSIS: A QUALITATIVE ANALYSIS
items: THE DEVELOPMENT OF NETSPEAK IN DIGITAL COMMUNICATION: A STUDY OF MEANING BEYOND WORDS
items: EXPLORING APPROACHES TO ENGLISH WRITING INSTRUCTION: A TWO-DIMENSIONAL STUDY FROM NAUSHAHRO FEROZE
items: BEYOND EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE: A MULTIDIMENSIONAL SELF-AWARENESS MODEL FOR PREDICTING LEADERSHIP EFFECTIVENESS
items: PERSONALITY TRAITS AND ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF UNIVERSITY STUDENTS
items: SOCIO-ECONOMIC CONDITIONS AND CRIME: EVIDENCE FROM GARHI KHAIRO, PAKISTAN
items: EMPOWERED TO COMMIT: THE IMPACT OF ENABLING CONTROL AND EMPLOYEE EMPOWERMENT
items: ASSESSING THE KARAKORAM ANOMALY AND ITS IMPACT ON WATER SUPPLY IN PAKISTAN
items: AFGHANISTAN AND IRAN: DYNAMICS AND CHALLENGES IN BILATERAL RELATIONS
items: PRESERVING PUNJABI EMBROIDERY IN THE GLOBAL FASHION MARKETPLACE: ECONOMIC AND CULTURAL PERSPECTIVES
items: A CRITICAL EVALUATION OF HATE SPEECH REGULATION UNDER PAKISTAN’S CYBER LAW
items: AN EMPIRICAL ANALYSIS OF VENTURE CAPITAL CERTIFICATION AND FINANCIAL STABILITY IN CHINA’S IPO MARKET
items: ANTENATAL CARE UTILIZATION AMONG URBAN SLUM COMMUNITIES IN PUNJAB: AN ETHNOGRAPHIC INSIGHT
items: AI INTEGRATION INTO TEACHING: CURRENT SYSTEM PREPAREDNESS AND FUTURE PERSPECTIVES
items: DEEP-FAKE DETECTION USING HYBRID NEURAL NETWORK ARCHITECTURES
items: THE ROLE OF SUSTAINABLE SUPPLY CHAIN PRACTICES AND CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT IN ENHANCING FIRM PERFORMANCE: A STRATEGIC BUSINESS MANAGEMENT PERSPECTIVE
items: ADVANCING COMPUTATIONAL MATHEMATICAL MODELING: INTEGRATING QUANTUM COMPUTING AND AI-DRIVEN OPTIMIZATION FOR COMPLEX SYSTEM SIMULATIONS
items: UNIQUE” MISOGYNISTIC FACEBOOK RESPONSES OF PAKISTANI WOMEN TO THE DRAMA SERIAL KABHI MAI KABHI TUM
items: THE ROLE OF TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP IN ENHANCING TEACHERS' SELF-EFFICACY AND TEACHING PERFORMANCE IN PAKISTANI EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS
items: FACTORIAL VALIDATION OF SATISFACTION WITH HEC DATABASES: EVIDENCE FROM A PAKISTANI UNIVERSITY
items: EVALUATING VALUE FOR MONEY (VFM) IN FISH FARMING: A CASE STUDY OF MANSEHRA DISTRICT, KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA, PAKISTAN
items: BIOMASS-DERIVED CARBON ELECTRO-CATALYSTS FOR SUSTAINABLE OXYGEN, WATER, AND CO₂ CONVERSION

OPTIMIZING HOSPITAL OPERATIONS AND PATIENT FLOW THROUGH PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS: A HEALTHCARE EVALUATION
type: item
description: This policy paper advocates the implementation of a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) as a strategic solution to address the critical challenges facing healthcare in Lahore. Public hospitals in the city face severe overcrowding, often operating at over 120% capacity, while trust-based healthcare facilities remain underutilized, with occupancy rates below 75%. To address this imbalance, the paper proposes an integrative PPP model designed to redistribute patient loads, enhance service efficiency, and ensure equitable access to healthcare services. Drawing on successful international PPP examples from Kenya, Lesotho, and Sri Lanka, the paper outlines a three-phase implementation strategy: stakeholder engagement, pilot testing, and scale-up, supported by digital integration and real-time monitoring systems. Key insights from stakeholder consultations highlight operational feasibility, financial incentives, coordination between public and private sectors, quality assurance, and regulatory support as critical considerations. The proposed model seeks to optimize existing healthcare infrastructure, reduce patient turnaround times, and promote inclusive, sustainable healthcare delivery for marginalized communities. If effectively executed, this initiative could serve as a replicable prototype for other high-density urban centers in the Global South.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Public-Private Partnership (PPP), healthcare efficiency, hospital overcrowding, trust hospitals, healthcare access, patient outcomes, bed occupancy, policy framework
  topic: keywords
creator: Adeel Khan
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-06-30
publication date: 2026-06-30
starting page: 67
ending page: 77

THE GEOPOLITICS OF BORDER MANAGEMENT: THE ISLAMIC EMIRATE AND THE DURAND LINE DISPUTE
type: item
description: This study examines the Taliban government’s position on Pakistan’s border management policies and the securitization of the Durand Line. With border fencing representing a primary point of contention between Pakistan and Afghanistan, the research explores the Taliban’s response to these measures, their perception of the issue, and potential future actions regarding the Durand Line’s fencing. Given the Taliban’s recent consolidation of power, understanding their stance is critical for assessing bilateral relations and the broader strategic implications for Pakistan-Afghanistan ties. The study employs a qualitative methodology, drawing on both primary and secondary sources. Primary data were collected through 32 in-depth interviews and two focus group discussions involving five distinct stakeholder groups, including journalists and Taliban officials. The data were thematically analyzed to identify key patterns and insights. Findings indicate that the Taliban largely maintain a stance consistent with previous Afghan governments, with minor modifications to justify their position. They express strong reservations regarding Pakistan’s border fortification and do not fully recognize the Durand Line as an official demarcation. Nevertheless, the study reveals that the Taliban are open to negotiations with Pakistan, emphasizing border management based on mutual consent and cooperation
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Durand Line, Border Fencing, Taliban, Securitization, Pakistan and Afghanistan
  topic: keywords
creator: Hassan Khan
creator: Bilal Ahmed
creator: Zubairullah Khosti
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-06-27
publication date: 2026-06-27
starting page: 45
ending page: 66

MIGRAINE STIGMA, PAIN PERCEPTION, AND TREATMENT SATISFACTION
type: item
description: This study explores the relationship between migraine-related stigma, pain perception, and treatment satisfaction, and examines pain perception as a mediator. Using a correlational design and purposive sampling (N=105), data were collected from hospital outpatients and social media users. Measures included demographic and clinical forms, the Migraine-Related Stigma Scale, the Pain Belief and Perception Inventory, and the Treatment Satisfaction with Medicines Questionnaire. Results showed that stigma was significantly associated with both pain perception (r = .435, p < .01) and treatment satisfaction (r = .420, p < .01). Regression analysis indicated stigma significantly predicted treatment satisfaction (R² = .188), with pain perception partially mediating this relationship. The findings underscore the need to address both stigma and pain perception to improve treatment outcomes for individuals with migraines.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: migraine related stigma, pain perception, treatment satisfaction
  topic: keywords
creator: Amna Azam
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-06-28
publication date: 2026-06-28
starting page: 36
ending page: 44

BORDER SECURITIZATION AND SOVEREIGNTY: THE ISLAMIC EMIRATE AND THE DURAND LINE FENCING DISPUTE
type: item
description: This study examines the Taliban government’s position on Pakistan’s fencing and securitization of the Durand Line, a major point of contention in bilateral relations. Using a qualitative approach, data were gathered through 32 in-depth interviews and two focus group discussions with journalists, Taliban officials, and other stakeholders. The findings reveal that while the Taliban largely maintain a stance similar to previous Afghan governments—expressing strong reservations about the border fortification and rejecting the Durand Line as an official boundary—they show willingness to negotiate with Pakistan on border management based on mutual consent. This research highlights the significance of the Taliban’s position for future Pakistan-Afghanistan relations.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Durand Line, Border Fencing, Taliban, Securitization, Pakistan and Afghanistan
  topic: keywords
creator: Naveed Ahmad
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-06-29
publication date: 2026-06-29
starting page: 14
ending page: 35

SOCIOECONOMIC DETERMINANTS OF FEMALE CRIMINALITY: A CASE STUDY OF PAKISTAN
type: item
description: This study explores the socio-economic factors driving female criminality in Pakistan. Drawing on in-depth interviews with thirteen convicted female offenders, the research highlights key influences such as economic hardship, family conflicts, material desires, pursuit of love, and protecting family honor. Findings suggest that changes in society, including industrialization and media influence, have also shaped female involvement in crime. The study calls for urgent efforts to strengthen women’s socio-economic status and family support to reduce female criminal behavior in Pakistan.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Dynamics, Economic, Respect, Criminal, Punishment
  topic: keywords
creator: Ahsan Ali
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-06-30
publication date: 2026-06-30
starting page: 1
ending page: 13

ENVIRONMENTAL PERSPECTIVES IN FIREFLIES IN THE MIST BY QURRATULAIN HYDER
type: item
description: This study explores the concept of agency through an eco-critical and postcolonial lens in Quratulain Hyder’s Fireflies in the Mist. It examines how the novel constructs “agentic spaces” that challenge oppression, marginalization, and the distorted status of locality. Central to the narrative is the emergence of female agency, particularly through the protagonist, who navigates social constraints to become an autonomous subject. The research highlights how ecological elements in the novel serve as symbolic shelters that support this transformation, culminating in the formation of an “agentic locus.” Ultimately, the study reveals how environmental and social contexts intersect to empower marginalized identities
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Agency, Agentic Locus, ecocriticism, postoclonialism, Haider’s Fireflies in the Mist, Female character
  topic: keywords
creator: Shaista Malik
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-03-31
publication date: 2026-03-31
starting page: 48
ending page: 60

BREAST CANCER KNOWLEDGE AND RISK AWARENESS AMONG NURSES: EVIDENCE FROM A TEACHING HOSPITAL IN LAHORE, PAKISTAN
type: item
description: Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer among women worldwide, and nurses play a crucial role in promoting early detection through patient education. This cross-sectional study assessed breast cancer risk factor knowledge among 609 registered female nurses at Jinnah Hospital, Lahore, using stratified random sampling and a structured questionnaire based on Stager's Comprehensive Breast Cancer Knowledge Test. Knowledge levels were categorized as good, fair, or poor. Ordinal regression identified significant predictors of knowledge: nurses from private institutions (aOR = 4.23), those with experience caring for breast cancer patients (aOR = 1.41), those who had received a breast exam (aOR = 1.56), and those who had performed breast exams (aOR = 1.87) were more likely to have good knowledge. Only 35% of nurses demonstrated good knowledge. The findings emphasize the need to strengthen breast cancer education in nursing curricula and provide ongoing clinical training to improve early detection and patient care
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Breast Cancer, Teaching Hospitals, Risk Factors, Workplace Training
  topic: keywords
creator: Asma Sarwar
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-03-31
publication date: 2026-03-31
starting page: 40
ending page: 47

CAREGIVING CHALLENGES IN HOME-BASED HEMODIALYSIS: A QUALITATIVE ANALYSIS
type: item
description: Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a growing health concern in Pakistan, with prevalence rates ranging from 12.5% to 29.9%. Home caregivers of patients undergoing hemodialysis face significant physical, emotional, and informational burdens, which affect both their well-being and the quality of care provided. Objective: To explore the challenges faced by home caregivers attending to hemodialysis patients. Method: A qualitative descriptive design was used. Twelve primary caregivers with direct caregiving experience were selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected via in-depth interviews, transcribed, and analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: Five major themes emerged: Physical and daily caregiving challenges (e.g., care fatigue, lifestyle changes) Lack of knowledge and information (e.g., inadequate medication management, need for education) Emotional and psychological stress (e.g., anxiety, feeling overwhelmed) Impact on family dynamics (e.g., disrupted leisure time, shifting responsibilities) Financial strain (e.g., treatment costs, job disturbances) Conclusion: Home caregivers of hemodialysis patients face multifaceted challenges that significantly affect their physical, emotional, and financial well-being. Addressing these needs through education, support systems, and policy-level interventions is essential to improve both caregiver and patient outcomes.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Chronic Kidney Disease, Hemodialysis, Caregivers
  topic: keywords
creator: Tahira Batool
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-03-31
publication date: 2026-03-31
starting page: 24
ending page: 39

THE DEVELOPMENT OF NETSPEAK IN DIGITAL COMMUNICATION: A STUDY OF MEANING BEYOND WORDS
type: item
description: Netspeak has evolved from early internet forums into a complex digital language marked by abbreviations, emojis, memes, hashtags, and nonstandard grammar. This study explores its trajectory and socio-linguistic significance, highlighting how meaning often extends beyond literal words through context, shared references, and visual cues. Using an exploratory framework, the research reveals that Netspeak reflects shifting communication norms and identity expression in online spaces. Understanding this evolution is key to interpreting modern digital discourse and promoting digital literacy among students and the wider public.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Netspeak; Digital communication; Generation Z; Semantic features; Semiotic features
  topic: keywords
creator: Tanveer Ahmed
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-03-31
publication date: 2026-03-31
starting page: 14
ending page: 23

EXPLORING APPROACHES TO ENGLISH WRITING INSTRUCTION: A TWO-DIMENSIONAL STUDY FROM NAUSHAHRO FEROZE
type: item
description: English writing remains a challenge for students due to limited exposure to modern instructional approaches. This study examines the teaching approaches used by English language teachers in government secondary schools in Naushahro Feroze, focusing on the contrast between product and process writing methods. Using a quantitative descriptive design, data were collected via surveys from 104 students and 32 teachers across eight schools in three Talukas. Analysis was conducted using SPSS, applying descriptive statistics and Pearson’s correlation. Findings reveal that while teachers are aware of the process approach, they predominantly use the product approach in classrooms. The study recommends integrating process-based writing methods into the curriculum to foster students' creativity, critical thinking, and reduce reliance on rote learning.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Writing Skills- Process Approach- Product Approach- Teacher Practice
  topic: keywords
creator: Uzma
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-03-31
publication date: 2026-03-31
starting page: 1
ending page: 13

BEYOND EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE: A MULTIDIMENSIONAL SELF-AWARENESS MODEL FOR PREDICTING LEADERSHIP EFFECTIVENESS
type: item
description: This study redefines self-awareness in leadership through a triadic model integrating emotional, cognitive, and social intelligence. Using a novel correlational approach, data were collected from 72 manager-subordinate dyads across diverse organizations in Pakistan. Managers completed two self-assessments two weeks apart, while subordinates rated their leadership using the Leader Behavior Description Questionnaire (LBDQ). Regression analyses showed that only social intelligence significantly predicted leadership effectiveness. Emotional and cognitive intelligence, along with traditional and correlational self-awareness measures, were not significant predictors. Findings emphasize the cultural challenges of assessing self-awareness in high power-distance contexts and support the inclusion of social intelligence in leadership development and evaluation.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Self-awareness, Social intelligence, Leadership behavior, Emotional intelligence, Cognitive intelligence, Multidimensional model
  topic: keywords
creator: Naureen Azad
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2025-12-31
publication date: 2025-12-31
starting page: 60
ending page: 72

MIGRAINE STIGMA, PAIN PERCEPTION, AND TREATMENT SATISFACTION
type: item
description: This study explores the relationship between migraine-related stigma, pain perception, and treatment satisfaction, and examines pain perception as a mediator. Using a correlational design and purposive sampling (N=105), data were collected from hospital outpatients and social media users. Measures included demographic and clinical forms, the Migraine-Related Stigma Scale, the Pain Belief and Perception Inventory, and the Treatment Satisfaction with Medicines Questionnaire. Results showed that stigma was significantly associated with both pain perception (r = .435, p < .01) and treatment satisfaction (r = .420, p < .01). Regression analysis indicated stigma significantly predicted treatment satisfaction (R² = .188), with pain perception partially mediating this relationship. The findings underscore the need to address both stigma and pain perception to improve treatment outcomes for individuals with migraines
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: migraine related stigma, pain perception, treatment satisfaction
  topic: keywords
creator: Amna Azam
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2025-12-31
publication date: 2025-12-31
starting page: 51
ending page: 59

PERSONALITY TRAITS AND ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF UNIVERSITY STUDENTS
type: item
description: This study examines the relationship between university students' personality traits and academic performance in Pakistan, using data from an online survey and the BFI-10 (Big Five Inventory). Pearson’s correlation analysis revealed that extroversion and neuroticism negatively correlate with academic performance, while openness, agreeableness, and conscientiousness show positive correlations. The findings suggest that personality traits significantly impact academic outcomes. Interventions such as self-awareness practices and behavior adjustments may help students leverage or manage their traits to improve academic performance.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Student`s Personality Traits, Academic Achievement. Openness
  topic: keywords
creator: Samreen Shabbir
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2025-12-31
publication date: 2025-12-31
starting page: 40
ending page: 50

SOCIO-ECONOMIC CONDITIONS AND CRIME: EVIDENCE FROM GARHI KHAIRO, PAKISTAN
type: item
description: This study examines the link between socio-economic conditions and rising crime in Garhi Khairo, Jacobabad District, Sindh, Pakistan. Based on resident concerns, it investigates root causes of crime through structured interviews, questionnaires, and literature review. Results show poverty and unemployment significantly contribute to crime, while education, drug abuse, and weak law enforcement show no statistical impact. Limited to Garhi Khairo, the findings suggest that addressing poverty and unemployment may help reduce crime, calling for a reassessment of other assumed factors
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Crime rate, Socioeconomic factors, Poverty, Unemployment, Community perception.
  topic: keywords
creator: Naveed Ahmed
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2025-12-31
publication date: 2025-12-31
starting page: 23
ending page: 39

EMPOWERED TO COMMIT: THE IMPACT OF ENABLING CONTROL AND EMPLOYEE EMPOWERMENT
type: item
description: This study examines how enabling control—specifically belief and interactive control systems—impacts employee commitment through employee empowerment in the service sector. Data were collected via a self-administered questionnaire using convenience sampling from employees of pharmaceutical firms in Karachi, each with at least one year of work experience. The analysis employed convergent inquiry, discriminant validity, and structural modeling techniques. While limited to the pharmaceutical sector in Karachi, the findings highlight a significant positive relationship between enabling control, employee empowerment, and commitment, emphasizing the role of control systems in organizational management. Future studies should explore broader industries and cultural contexts
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Management Control Systems
  topic: keywords
subject: Levers of Control
  topic: keywords
subject: Employee Empowerment
  topic: keywords
subject: Employee Commitment.
  topic: keywords
creator: Sofia Rehan
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2025-12-31
publication date: 2025-12-31
starting page: 1
ending page: 22

ASSESSING THE KARAKORAM ANOMALY AND ITS IMPACT ON WATER SUPPLY IN PAKISTAN
type: item
description: The Karakoram Anomaly refers to the phenomenon where many glaciers in Pakistan’s Karakoram Range have remained stable or even advanced over recent decades, in contrast to the global trend of glacier retreat driven by climate change. This study examines the climatic, topographic, and glaciological factors influencing Pakistan’s water resources. Employing a qualitative, integrative methodology, the research combines literature review, analysis of climate and hydrological data, remote sensing imagery, and field observations conducted in Gilgit-Baltistan during 2022–2023. Findings indicate that enhanced winter precipitation from westerly disturbances, stable to cooler summer temperatures, extensive debris cover, and high-altitude microclimatic protection contribute positively to glacier mass balance. Analysis of river discharge records, complemented by stakeholder interviews, demonstrates that the Karakoram Anomaly underpins consistent water flows into the Indus Basin, supporting irrigation, hydropower, and domestic water supply. However, this stability is fragile: slight increases in temperature or precipitation could accelerate melt, alter river regimes, and heighten the risk of floods or water shortages during dry seasons. The study highlights the region’s climate-buffering capacities and associated climate-change vulnerabilities, emphasizing the need for enhanced glacier monitoring, adaptive water management, and integrated resilience planning to safeguard Pakistan’s water security.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Karakoram Anomaly
  topic: keywords
subject: Deltas
  topic: keywords
subject: climatic change
  topic: keywords
subject: semi-arid regions
  topic: keywords
subject: Hindukush-Karakoram-Himalaya (HKH)
  topic: keywords
subject: water-supply
  topic: keywords
creator: Muskan Abbasi
rights: Copyright (c) 2025
date: 2025-09-30
publication date: 2025-09-30
starting page: 59
ending page: 73

AFGHANISTAN AND IRAN: DYNAMICS AND CHALLENGES IN BILATERAL RELATIONS
type: item
description: This study analyzes the bilateral relationship between Taliban-led Afghanistan and Iran since 2021. In the context of shifting regional and global dynamics, particularly Iran’s security concerns and Afghanistan’s international isolation, both countries have adopted pragmatic and cooperative approaches to promote a stable and mutually beneficial neighborhood. The research focuses on key areas of engagement, including cross-border security and migration, water resource management, trade, and the Taliban’s efforts toward international recognition. Diplomatic interactions between Tehran and Kabul are also examined to provide a comprehensive understanding of their evolving relationship. The study relies on both primary and secondary sources. Secondary sources encompass academic research, expert analyses, news reports, and policy reviews, while primary sources include official documents, press releases, and diplomatic communications. Particular attention is given to public statements, speeches, and interviews of government officials from both countries, offering insights into their strategic priorities. Utilizing a constructivist-realist analytical framework, the study finds that while Iran and Afghanistan have achieved notable cooperation in several domains, persistent challenges remain. These include ideological divergences, disputes over water allocation, and Iran’s management of Afghan refugees, which may impede future collaboration and destabilize bilateral relations.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Afghanistan-Iran Relations
  topic: keywords
subject: Taliban
  topic: keywords
subject: Bilateral Cooperation
  topic: keywords
subject: Regional Security
  topic: keywords
subject: Water Disputes
  topic: keywords
subject: Afghan Refugees
  topic: keywords
subject: Trade Relations
  topic: keywords
subject: Constructivist-Realist Analysis
  topic: keywords
creator: Shah Faisal
creator: Mena Khan
creator: Arham Khan
rights: Copyright (c) 2025
date: 2025-09-30
publication date: 2025-09-30
starting page: 40
ending page: 58

PRESERVING PUNJABI EMBROIDERY IN THE GLOBAL FASHION MARKETPLACE: ECONOMIC AND CULTURAL PERSPECTIVES
type: item
description: The rapid growth of the fast fashion industry poses a significant threat to Punjab, Pakistan’s centuries-old cultural heritage, particularly its traditional needlework, including Phulkari, Kasuti, and Aari stitching. This study investigates the challenges faced by Punjabi needlework artisans in global markets, highlighting the tension between mass-produced, low-cost fashion and labor-intensive, culturally rich slow-stitch traditions. Employing a mixed-methods approach—incorporating case studies, literature reviews, and interviews with craftsmen—the research explores the socioeconomic and cultural barriers that limit the global competitiveness of Punjab’s hand-embroidered textiles. Key findings reveal that the dominance of fast fashion has led to cultural appropriation of traditional designs, declining demand, and exploitation of artisans. Limited regulatory support and restricted market access further marginalize rural artisan communities. However, opportunities exist through online marketplaces, ethical fashion initiatives, and policies designed to preserve cultural heritage and ensure fair compensation. The study offers practical strategies to bridge traditional craftsmanship with contemporary market demands, contributing to sustainable fashion, cultural preservation, and artisan empowerment. It underscores the importance of collaboration among governments, NGOs, and international buyers in safeguarding Punjab’s needlework legacy.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Punjabi Embroidery
  topic: keywords
subject: Fast Fashion
  topic: keywords
subject: Slow-Stitch Tradition
  topic: keywords
subject: Artisan Empowerment
  topic: keywords
subject: Sustainable Fashion
  topic: keywords
subject: Cultural Heritage
  topic: keywords
subject: Handcrafted Textiles
  topic: keywords
subject: Pakistan
  topic: keywords
creator: Aqsa Asad
creator: Sehrish Abbas
creator: Iram Adnan
rights: Copyright (c) 2025
date: 2025-09-30
publication date: 2025-09-30
starting page: 32
ending page: 39

A CRITICAL EVALUATION OF HATE SPEECH REGULATION UNDER PAKISTAN’S CYBER LAW
type: item
description: This paper examines Pakistan’s legal framework governing cyber law within the context of both the Constitution and ordinary legislation. It explores the scope and applicability of various laws pertaining to cyber regulation and considers Pakistan’s obligations to prevent hate speech under its international legal commitments. The study provides a detailed analysis of the concept of hate speech and critically evaluates the relevant legal provisions, assessing their alignment with constitutional guarantees of freedom of speech. Landmark judicial decisions addressing hate speech are also scrutinized to highlight legal interpretations and enforcement practices. Key findings indicate that Pakistan’s cyber law is integrated within both constitutional and ordinary legal frameworks, with each set of laws possessing distinct scope and applicability. Hate speech is identified as expressions of animosity directed at specific groups for particular reasons, including interfaith, sectarian, racial, anti-Islamic, or anti-state sentiments. The laws addressing hate speech are generally consistent with constitutional protections of free speech. Notably, even prior to the enactment of specific hate speech legislation, the Supreme Court of Pakistan established guidelines for its prevention in landmark rulings. The study adopts a doctrinal methodology to analyze and interpret these legal instruments.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Cyber Law
  topic: keywords
subject: Cybersecurity
  topic: keywords
subject: Freedom of Expression
  topic: keywords
subject: Hate Speech Constitutional Rights (Article 19
  topic: keywords
creator: Saleem Ahmad
creator: Fahim Islam
rights: Copyright (c) 2025
date: 2025-09-30
publication date: 2025-09-30
starting page: 22
ending page: 31

AN EMPIRICAL ANALYSIS OF VENTURE CAPITAL CERTIFICATION AND FINANCIAL STABILITY IN CHINA’S IPO MARKET
type: item
description: his study examines the certifying role of venture capital (VC) in reducing financial distress and lowering the cost of capital for Chinese initial public offerings (IPOs). Using a dataset of 1,683 non-financial firms that went public between 2006 and 2016, the analysis reveals that VC-backed firms experience significantly lower financial distress and benefit from more favorable financing conditions compared to non-VC-backed firms. To address potential endogeneity, the study employs propensity score matching, confirming that VCs play a critical role in selecting firms with strong growth prospects, characterized by reduced financial risk and improved cost efficiency. Furthermore, firms supported by reputable VCs exhibit markedly lower financial distress and achieve greater reductions in financing costs. The findings also suggest that independent private venture capital firms exert a particularly strong influence in mitigating financial costs for IPO firms. Overall, the results highlight the dual impact of VC backing: alleviating financial distress while providing a certification effect that substantially reduces the cost of capital for supported firms.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Venture Capital
  topic: keywords
subject: IPOS
  topic: keywords
subject: Distress
  topic: keywords
subject: Propensity Score Matching (PSM)
  topic: keywords
creator: Rida Yaseen
creator: Shuzin Xing
rights: Copyright (c) 2025
date: 2025-09-30
publication date: 2025-09-30
starting page: 1
ending page: 21

ANTENATAL CARE UTILIZATION AMONG URBAN SLUM COMMUNITIES IN PUNJAB: AN ETHNOGRAPHIC INSIGHT
type: item
description: Background: Pakistan accounts for 7% of global neonatal deaths, with only 28% of women accessing four or more antenatal care (ANC) visits and stark disparities in skilled birth attendance between rich (77%) and poor (16%) populations. Objective: This ethnographic study explores perceptions of ANC among disadvantaged urban slum residents in Shamspura Colony, Lahore. Method: Using non-participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and documentary review, data were collected over four months and analyzed thematically. Results: Most women (63%) do not view ANC as beneficial, and only 41% of husbands are supportive. While 83% prefer institutional deliveries, knowledge about ANC is limited: only 29% are fully aware of its benefits. Decision-making is largely influenced by husbands (43%) and mothers-in-law (31%), with just 3% of women making independent healthcare decisions. Conclusion: Limited awareness, restricted mobility, cultural norms, and financial barriers contribute to low ANC utilization. Enhancing community education and empowering women are crucial for improving maternal health outcomes in urban slum areas.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Antenatal Care
  topic: keywords
subject: Urban Slum Dwellers
  topic: keywords
subject: Ethnographic Study
  topic: keywords
creator: Dr. Nazia Malik
rights: Copyright (c) 2025
date: 2025-06-30
publication date: 2025-06-30
starting page: 45
ending page: 50

AI INTEGRATION INTO TEACHING: CURRENT SYSTEM PREPAREDNESS AND FUTURE PERSPECTIVES
type: item
description: This study explores the readiness of Pakistan’s education system to adopt AI tools from educators’ perspectives. Using a qualitative cross-sectional design and thematic analysis of structured questionnaires, findings reveal educators recognize AI’s potential for personalized learning, administrative efficiency, and teaching improvements. However, concerns include job displacement, reduced creativity, and overreliance on technology. Key barriers identified are inadequate infrastructure, insufficient teacher training, and lack of supportive policies. Despite these challenges, awareness and interest in AI integration are growing. The study recommends that policymakers focus on building robust infrastructure, formulating clear AI usage policies, and enhancing teachers’ digital literacy through professional development, alongside continuous evaluation to ensure AI upholds educational integrity.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Teacher Perception of AI
  topic: keywords
subject: Artificial Intelligence in education
  topic: keywords
subject: AI integration in teaching
  topic: keywords
subject: Educational System Preparedness
  topic: keywords
subject: Future of AI in Education
  topic: keywords
creator: Rabia
rights: Copyright (c) 2025
date: 2025-06-30
publication date: 2025-06-30
starting page: 38
ending page: 44

DEEP-FAKE DETECTION USING HYBRID NEURAL NETWORK ARCHITECTURES
type: item
description: The rise of deep-fake technologies poses significant challenges to media integrity, political trust, and public security. Advances in generative adversarial networks (GANs) have made synthetic content increasingly realistic, necessitating more robust detection methods. This study proposes a hybrid neural network architecture combining Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN), Recurrent Neural Networks (RNN—specifically LSTMs), and autoencoders for effective deep-fake detection. Utilizing benchmark datasets such as FaceForensics++ and the DeepFake Detection Challenge, the data underwent resizing, normalization, and extensive augmentation. CNNs captured spatial features, RNNs encoded temporal inconsistencies, and autoencoders detected fine-grained anomalies via reconstruction loss. These components were integrated at the feature level into a unified model trained with the Adam optimizer and categorical cross-entropy loss, validated through stratified k-fold cross-validation. The hybrid model achieved superior performance with accuracy of 96.4%, precision of 95.8%, recall of 96.1%, F1-score of 96.0%, and ROC-AUC of 0.982, outperforming baseline models. Ablation studies confirmed the critical contribution of each component. This hybrid approach offers a promising, scalable solution for maintaining information authenticity in the digital era.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: deepfake detection
  topic: keywords
subject: hybrid neural networks
  topic: keywords
subject: CNN
  topic: keywords
subject: RNN
  topic: keywords
subject: autoencoder
  topic: keywords
subject: media forensics
  topic: keywords
subject: deep learning
  topic: keywords
creator: Rabia Younas
rights: Copyright (c) 2025
date: 2025-06-30
publication date: 2025-06-30
starting page: 28
ending page: 37

THE ROLE OF SUSTAINABLE SUPPLY CHAIN PRACTICES AND CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT IN ENHANCING FIRM PERFORMANCE: A STRATEGIC BUSINESS MANAGEMENT PERSPECTIVE
type: item
description: Background: Increasing environmental pressures and evolving customer needs compel companies to integrate sustainability and strategic relationship management. While Sustainable Supply Chain Practices (SSCPs) and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) individually enhance firm performance, their combined impact remains underexplored, particularly in developing countries. Objective: This study examines the effects of SSCPs and CRM on firm performance and explores CRM’s mediating role between SSCPs and performance, based on data from Saudi firms. Methodology: A cross-sectional quantitative study surveyed 310 managerial respondents from 350 manufacturing, retail, and service firms using validated scales measuring SSCPs (sustainable sourcing, green logistics, waste management), CRM (customer satisfaction, loyalty programs, relationship building), and firm performance (operational efficiency, financial outcomes, customer loyalty). Data were analyzed using SEM via AMOS 22 and Smart PLS. Results: SSCPs positively impacted firm performance (β=0.42, p<.001), as did CRM (β=0.37, p<.001). CRM also mediated the SSCP–performance relationship. Model fit indices confirmed the framework’s validity. Implications: Integrating SSCPs with CRM strategies enhances firm performance, offering strategic advantages in sustainability and customer retention.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Sustainable supply chain practices
  topic: keywords
subject: customer relationship management
  topic: keywords
subject: firm performance
  topic: keywords
subject: strategic management
  topic: keywords
subject: Saudi Arabia
  topic: keywords
subject: structural equation modeling
  topic: keywords
creator: Mehar Un Nisa
rights: Copyright (c) 2025
date: 2025-06-30
publication date: 2025-06-30
starting page: 18
ending page: 27

ADVANCING COMPUTATIONAL MATHEMATICAL MODELING: INTEGRATING QUANTUM COMPUTING AND AI-DRIVEN OPTIMIZATION FOR COMPLEX SYSTEM SIMULATIONS
type: item
description: Computational mathematical modeling has become essential across scientific fields, leveraging numerical methods, AI, and optimization techniques. This research explores core methodologies, including finite element analysis, differential equation solvers, and machine-learning prediction models, underpinned by probability theory, statistical modeling, and differential equations to represent complex systems. Applications span physics, engineering, biology, medicine, finance, and environmental science, addressing structural analysis, disease modeling, risk assessment, and climate simulation. Despite advancements, challenges like computational inefficiency, accuracy limits, and scalability remain. Emerging technologies—AI, quantum computing, and hybrid models—offer promising solutions to enhance efficiency and predictive power. Future research should focus on adaptive algorithms, interdisciplinary approaches, and high-performance computing to drive more realistic simulations and data-driven decision-making. These innovations will propel scientific progress and expand the potential of computational modeling in science, engineering, and applied mathematics.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Computational mathematical modeling
  topic: keywords
subject: numerical methods
  topic: keywords
subject: artificial intelligence
  topic: keywords
subject: optimization algorithms
  topic: keywords
subject: differential equations
  topic: keywords
subject: probability theory
  topic: keywords
subject: quantum computing
  topic: keywords
subject: predictive modeling
  topic: keywords
subject: interdisciplinary applications
  topic: keywords
subject: high-performance computing
  topic: keywords
creator: Umm e Habiba
rights: Copyright (c) 2025
date: 2025-06-30
publication date: 2025-06-30
starting page: 9
ending page: 17

UNIQUE” MISOGYNISTIC FACEBOOK RESPONSES OF PAKISTANI WOMEN TO THE DRAMA SERIAL KABHI MAI KABHI TUM
type: item
description: This study examines internalized misogyny among Pakistani women through their English-language Facebook responses to the drama serial Kabhi Mai Kabhi Tum. Drawing on postfeminist theory, it explores how women, aiming to avoid “man-hating” stereotypes, often elevate men above themselves and other women, displaying a form of “unique” misogyny that devalues their own gender. Using Halliday’s (1994) Transitivity Analysis, 20 purposively selected Facebook comments were qualitatively analyzed to reveal linguistic strategies that construct this misogynistic stance. Results show that women frequently use language that both idealizes male characters and undermines female characters, reflecting internalized sexism. This research sheds light on how postfeminist attitudes sustain gender hierarchies and the role of social media in perpetuating internalized misogyny in contemporary Pakistani society.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Transitivity Analysis
  topic: keywords
subject: Postfeminism
  topic: keywords
subject: Misogyny
  topic: keywords
subject: Kabhi Mai Kabhi Tum
  topic: keywords
subject: Facebook
  topic: keywords
creator: Rabail Haque
rights: Copyright (c) 2025
date: 2025-06-30
publication date: 2025-06-30
starting page: 1
ending page: 8

THE ROLE OF TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP IN ENHANCING TEACHERS' SELF-EFFICACY AND TEACHING PERFORMANCE IN PAKISTANI EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS
type: item
description: This study investigates the mediating role of self-efficacy in the relationship between transformational leadership and teaching performance. Data were collected from 158 participants across 28 educational institutions in Pakistan and analyzed using regression techniques. Findings reveal that transformational leadership significantly predicts teaching performance, with self-efficacy serving as a key mediator in this relationship. The study is limited by its cross-sectional design and focus on the Rawalpindi/Islamabad region, which may affect generalizability across Pakistan. Despite a relatively small sample size, the results provide valuable insights into an underexplored area in Pakistan, highlighting how self-efficacy enhances the impact of transformational leadership on teaching effectiveness.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Transformational Leadership
  topic: keywords
subject: Self-Efficacy
  topic: keywords
subject: Teaching Performance
  topic: keywords
subject: Rawalpindi/Islamabad Pakistan
  topic: keywords
creator: Rubab Ali
rights: Copyright (c) 2025
date: 2025-03-31
publication date: 2025-03-31
starting page: 64
ending page: 74

FACTORIAL VALIDATION OF SATISFACTION WITH HEC DATABASES: EVIDENCE FROM A PAKISTANI UNIVERSITY
type: item
description: This study validates the effects of four predictors on teaching faculty satisfaction with digital databases at the University of Peshawar. Using a quantitative survey approach with randomly selected participants, data were collected via a validated questionnaire. Four hypotheses were tested through regression analysis using SPSS. All hypotheses were supported, demonstrating significant impacts of the predictors on faculty satisfaction. Among them, perceived usefulness emerged as the strongest determinant of satisfaction. This is the first empirical study examining these constructs within the University of Peshawar context, offering valuable insights for enhancing digital database services.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Online databases
  topic: keywords
subject: users’ satisfaction
  topic: keywords
subject: library usability
  topic: keywords
subject: digital libraries
  topic: keywords
subject: adoption of innovations
  topic: keywords
subject: academic libraries
  topic: keywords
subject: university librarians
  topic: keywords
subject: Pakistan
  topic: keywords
creator: Asad Khan
rights: Copyright (c) 2025
date: 2025-03-31
publication date: 2025-03-31
starting page: 50
ending page: 63

EVALUATING VALUE FOR MONEY (VFM) IN FISH FARMING: A CASE STUDY OF MANSEHRA DISTRICT, KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA, PAKISTAN
type: item
description: This study evaluates the Value for Money (VfM) of fish farming in District Mansehra, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, under WWF’s “Water Resource Accountability in Pakistan” (WRAP) project, supported by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). WRAP aims to scale up Nature-based Solutions (NbS) for improved water resource management and climate resilience. The findings demonstrate that fish farming offers strong financial efficiency and effectiveness, with cost-effective interventions and sustainable practices contributing to water security and community resilience. The study highlights the fisheries sector as a vital sub-sector of agriculture in Pakistan, offering significant economic and food security benefits. It also underscores the growth potential of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's diverse aquatic ecosystem. This research provides a framework for policymakers and development partners to implement integrated VfM assessment systems, enabling evidence-based investment decisions and enhancing the impact of climate-related interventions.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: VFM Analysis
  topic: keywords
subject: Fisheries production and WRAP intervention
  topic: keywords
subject: NbS
  topic: keywords
creator: Irfanullah
rights: Copyright (c) 2025
date: 2025-03-31
publication date: 2025-03-31
starting page: 39
ending page: 49

BIOMASS-DERIVED CARBON ELECTRO-CATALYSTS FOR SUSTAINABLE OXYGEN, WATER, AND CO₂ CONVERSION
type: item
description: Introduction: The demand for cost-effective, sustainable electrocatalysts in clean energy applications has driven interest in biomass-derived carbon materials. These precursors offer inherent heteroatoms and hierarchical structures, making them promising candidates for multifunctional electrocatalysis, including ORR, HER, OER, and CO₂RR. Objective: This study aims to develop high-performance carbon-based electrocatalysts from biomass using heteroatom doping and structural engineering to enhance activity across key energy conversion reactions. Methods: Biomass was hydrothermally carbonized and pyrolyzed at various temperatures with nitrogen and phosphorus dopants. The resulting materials were characterized using SEM, TEM, XRD, Raman spectroscopy, and BET surface area analysis. Electrochemical performance was evaluated via linear sweep voltammetry, chronoamperometry, and EIS in both alkaline and neutral media. Results: The N,P-co-doped biomass-derived carbon catalysts exhibited excellent performance, with an onset potential of 0.91 V (vs. RHE) for ORR and a near-ideal four-electron pathway. For HER, an overpotential of 112 mV was required to reach 10 mA cm⁻², while OER achieved the same current at 1.51 V. In CO₂RR, the catalyst showed 89% Faradaic efficiency for CO production with notable stability. Enhanced performance was attributed to synergistic doping, high surface area, and porous structure. Conclusion: This work highlights a scalable, eco-friendly approach to producing multifunctional electrocatalysts from biomass, advancing the development of sustainable energy conversion technologies.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Biomass
  topic: keywords
subject: Electro-catalyst
  topic: keywords
subject: Carbon dioxide reduction
  topic: keywords
subject: Oxygen reduction
  topic: keywords
subject: Hydrogen evolution
  topic: keywords
subject: Heteroatom doping
  topic: keywords
subject: Sustainability
  topic: keywords
creator: Mushtaq Ahmad
rights: Copyright (c) 2025
date: 2025-03-31
publication date: 2025-03-31
starting page: 28
ending page: 38