Volume 2, No. 2, 2025

1National Institute of Food Science & Technology, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad; 2Department of Plant Pathology, UC Davis, CA, 95616, USA

*Corresponding Email: mahnoor11122k@gmail.com

Citations: Noor M, Zafar R and Hussain AK, 2025. Discovering the potential of ashwagandha for hormonal balance: a complete review. Scientific Records 2(2): 1-11. https://doi.org/10.47278/journal.sr/2025.028

DOI: https://doi.org/10.47278/journal.sr/2025.028

Abstract: Ashwagandha has the botanical name Withania Somnifera (WS) and family name is Solanaceae, a medicinal plant of herbs. Owing to its numerous health benefits, it has been traditionally used in Indian medication. This detailed review unfolds the outlook as whether WS may have an ability to normalize hormone levels, specifically focusing on its impact over pituitary gland functioning, thyroid function regulation, adrenal system homeostasis and likewise sexual & reproduction functions. The bioactive compounds existing in WS, predominantly withanolides, show a vital role in facilitating its pharmacologic actions. The review too highlights the nutritive composition of WS, highlighting its protein, fiber, and vital mineral content. Systematic studies have proved the capability of WS to improve male fertility and normalize thyroid hormones. It also moderates stress related hormones, thereby refining cognitive function and sleep excellence. Furthermore, WS shows distinguished antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, additional contributive to its beneficial versatility. Though, in spite of these auspicious results, additional in vivo studies are required to clarify the primary mechanisms of WS's bioactivities and to authenticate its beneficial potential in hormone stability and additional health aids. This review highlights the standing of continuous research to found the effectiveness of WS as a therapeutic mediator.

1National Institute of Food Science and Technology, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, 38000, Pakistan; 2Department of plant pathology, UC Davis, CA, 95616, USA

*Corresponding Email: duaafaisal81@gmail.com

Citations: Faisal HD, Zahid S and Hussain AK, 2025. Ameliorative effect of dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) on hepatic and gut disorder. Scientific Records 2(2): 12-27. https://doi.org/10.47278/journal.sr/2025.029

DOI: https://doi.org/10.47278/journal.sr/2025.029

Abstract: Dandelion contains a high content of vitamins, inulin, phytosterols, amino acids, minerals, triterpenes, and polyphenols. This edible flowering plant has choleretic, diuretic, hypoglycemic, and anti-inflammatory properties. Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) is a perpetual herbaceous plant that can detoxify the blood, and support liver function as well as treat numerous systemic illnesses. It has been used for a long time in conventional medicines, as well as in different remedial treatments for a wide extent of symptoms, which include gastrointestinal (GI) diseases and digestive ailments as well as other complicated hepatic related issues. Dandelion is also commonly used in the management and prevention of numerous types of liver illnesses. Ascorbic acid, polyphenols, flavonoids, and tannins in dandelion are the active ingredients responsible for their hepato-protective properties. Dandelion shows positive health effects against various diseases like hepatic disorders, and GI disorders such as ulcerative colitis, gallstones, gastritis, GI malignancy, and small intestinal ulcer. Phenolic acid and flavonoids are the primary active substances in dandelion that lead to the reduction in oxidative stress and inflammatory damage. For future research, there is a need to enhance natural ways of treating various illnesses by regular consumption of dandelion against hepatic and GI disorders.

1Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Italy; 2Institute of Agricultural Extension, Education and Rural development, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan

*Corresponding Email: h.rehman@studenti.unina.it

Citations: Habib-ur-Rehman and Nadeem F, 2025. Analysis of land and water degradation, its drivers, and remedial strategies for south punjab, pakistan. Scientific Records 2(2): 28-37. https://doi.org/10.47278/journal.sr/2025.030

DOI: https://doi.org/10.47278/journal.sr/2025.030

Abstract: Land and water degradation pose a significant risk to agricultural productivity, rural livelihoods, and food security in South Punjab, Pakistan. This study explored the effects of degradation through a quantitative cross-sectional survey of 300 farm families in five districts (Bahawalpur, Multan, Vehari, Rahim Yar Khan and Dera Ghazi Khan). Findings indicate that the most pernicious forms of land and water degradation are soil salinity (Mean = 3.95, SD = 0.82) and groundwater depletion (Mean = 3.90, SD = 0.81). Further, over-exploitation of groundwater (Mean = 4.05, SD = 0.78), oerusage of agrochemicals (Mean = 3.91, SD = 0.81), and erratic rainfall/droughts (Mean = 3.88, SD = 0.82) are detrimental as well. It also has socioeconomic implications, the most significant of which are the reduction in crop yield (Mean = 4.12, SD = 0.79) and the increase in production costs (Mean = 3.95, SD = 0.82). Both the chi-square and logistic regression analysis indicated that farmers’ perception of degradation is contingent on education, farm size, and contact with extension workers (Nagelkerke R² = 0.28, overall accuracy = 70.3%). To achieve conservation of resource, some remedial practices such as efficient irrigation systems, soil reclamation methods and cultivation of salt-resistant crops needs to be promoted. The paper emphasizes the need for concerted technological, institutional, and policy action to reduce degradation and enhance agricultural resilience in South Punjab.

1Institute of Agricultural Extension Education & Rural Development, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad; 2Department of Agricultural Extension and Rural Society, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, P. O. Box 2460, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia

*Corresponding Email: fn.146@yahoo.com

Citations: Nadeem F and Alsanhani AN, 2025. Constraints faced by rural women in accessing agricultural resources in Punjab, Pakistan. Scientific Records 2(2): 38-44. https://doi.org/10.47278/journal.sr/2025.031

DOI: https://doi.org/10.47278/journal.sr/2025.031

Abstract: Agriculture remains central to Pakistan’s economy, yet rural women face significant constraints in accessing essential agricultural resources. This study investigated the socioeconomic, cultural, and institutional factors influencing rural women’s access to land, credit, irrigation, agricultural inputs, markets, and extension services in Punjab, Pakistan. A quantitative research design was employed, surveying 300 women selected through stratified random sampling from underdeveloped districts of South Punjab. Data were collected via structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multiple regression analysis. Results revealed that decision-making in agriculture (Mean = 2.07, SD = 0.81) and irrigation access (Mean = 2.00, SD = 0.79) were moderately accessible, whereas extension services (Mean = 1.57, SD = 0.71) and credit facilities (Mean = 1.74, SD = 0.72) were least accessible. Key constraints included lack of education (Mean = 4.32, SD = 0.78), limited household income (Mean = 4.10, SD = 0.85), restrictive social norms (Mean = 4.15, SD = 0.82), and inadequate institutional support (Mean = 4.21, SD = 0.80). Chi-square tests indicated education and income significantly influenced access to most resources (p < 0.01), while multiple regression showed socioeconomic (β = 0.345, p < 0.01), cultural (β = -0.198, p < 0.01), and institutional factors (β = 0.251, p < 0.01) explained 54.2% of variance in accessibility. The study highlights the need for literacy programs, financial inclusion, gender-sensitive policies, and strengthened institutional support to enhance rural women’s participation in agriculture.

1Institute of Agricultural Extension Education & Rural Development, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad; 2Department of Agricultural Extension and Rural Society, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, P. O. Box 2460, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia

*Corresponding Email: fn.146@yahoo.com

Citations: Nadeem F and Aldawdahi NM, 2025. Investing workplace conflict dynamics, management strategies and employee performance in Punjab’s agricultural development sector Scientific Records 2(2): 45-53. https://doi.org/10.47278/journal.sr/2025.032

DOI: https://doi.org/10.47278/journal.sr/2025.032

Abstract: Conflict in the workplace is a major factor that affects employee performance, organizational effectiveness, and a harmonious environment. This paper focuses on the nature, causes, and impacts of workplace conflict within Punjab agricultural development sector. Further, it explored the conflict management measures undertaken and their usefulness's. A quantitative research design was used to survey 320 employees from various agricultural development organizations (including officers, supervisors, administrative staff, and field workers). The findings show that workplace conflicts mainly result from communication barriers and resource limitations. Differences in leadership styles and role ambiguity also play a significant role, but they are not the primary factors in creating workplace conflicts. Workplace conflict adversely affects all dimensions of employee performance, with job satisfaction being the most affected. Supervisory mediation, open communication, and team discussion proved to be the most effective strategies for managing workplace conflict, with avoidance styles being the least effective. These results highlight the need to embrace integrative conflict-resolution techniques, as well as to promote effective communication, leadership styles, and roles, to foster employee performance and organizational success.

1Department of Management and Entrepreneurship, Al-Zaytoonah University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan; 2Institute of Agricultural Extension Education & Rural Development, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad; 3Department of International Business Management & Law, Anglia Ruskin University London

*Corresponding Email: fn.146@yahoo.com

Citations: AlWadi1 BM, Nadeem F and Sarwar MF, 2025. Drivers and constraints of adopting entrepreneurship as a sustainable livelihood: perspectives of rural youth in Punjab. Scientific Records 2(2): 54-60. https://doi.org/10.47278/journal.sr/2025.033

DOI: https://doi.org/10.47278/journal.sr/2025.033

Abstract: This study investigated the perceptions of educated unemployed rural youth in Punjab, Pakistan, regarding entrepreneurship as a viable pathway to sustainable self-employment. Using a quantitative cross-sectional survey, data were collected from 300 respondents aged 18–35 years with at least secondary education. Attitudes toward entrepreneurship, perceived barriers, motivators, and sociocultural and economic factors were measured using 5-point Likert-scale items. Results indicate that youth exhibited generally positive attitudes toward entrepreneurship, with the highest mean scores for “Interest in starting a business” (M = 4.12, SD = 0.81) and “Personal growth & independence” (M = 4.05, SD = 0.87). Financial constraints (M = 4.10, SD = 0.85) and lack of entrepreneurial skills (M = 3.95, SD = 0.90) were identified as major barriers, while income generation (M = 4.20, SD = 0.80) and autonomy (M = 4.15, SD = 0.82) emerged as key motivators. Correlation analysis showed significant positive associations between socioeconomic factors and entrepreneurial attitudes (r = 0.28–0.48, p < 0.01). Multiple regression results revealed that attitudes (β = 0.38, p < 0.001), motivators (β = 0.32, p < 0.001), socioeconomic factors (β = 0.22, p = 0.006), and sociocultural factors (β = 0.20, p = 0.006) positively predicted entrepreneurial intentions. In contrast, perceived barriers negatively influenced them (β = -0.25, p = 0.001), explaining 55% of the variance (R² = 0.55). The findings highlight the need for targeted policies, skill development, and financial and social support to promote sustainable youth entrepreneurship in rural Punjab.

1College of Humanities and Development Studies, China Agricultural University, Beijing; 2Institute of Agricultural Extension Education & Rural Development, University of Agricultural, Faisalabad

*Corresponding Email: asgharali2878@gmail.com

Citations: Shahbaz MS, and Ali A, 2025. The social impact of the China-Pakistan economic corridor (CPEC) on local communities in south Punjab, Pakistan. Scientific Records 2(2): 61-68. https://doi.org/10.47278/journal.sr/2025.034

DOI: https://doi.org/10.47278/journal.sr/2025.034

Abstract: One of the key components of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) that has become a model of developmental with numerous socio-economic implications. This study endeavored to examine the social implications of CPEC on the local communities in South Punjab, including the impacts on livelihoods and indigenous culture. The data were collected through a quantitative questionnaire from 400 respondents in four strategically selected districts (Multan, Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan and Dera Ghazi Khan). The results revealed that CPEC has done much in enhancing employment opportunities (M = 4.36, SD = 0.72), household income (M = 4.20, SD = 0.79) and accessibility to education and healthcare (M = 4.25, SD = 0.78). However, there are significant concerns regarding mass displacements through land acquisition (M = 4.28, SD = 0.74), imbalance in the distribution of benefits (M = 4.20, SD = 0.77), and the loss of traditional livelihoods (M = 4.15, SD = 0.79). Multiple regression analysis showed significant association between various CPEC programs dimensions and perceived social impacts. Infrastructural development was identified to be the strongest predictor of perceived social impacts (β = 0.348, p<0.01). Findings recommend a few interventions to foster fairness, skill development, and community inclusion in decision-making to achieve equitable and sustainable development.

1Institute of Agricultural Extension, Education and Rural Development, UAF, Pakistan; 2Department of International Business Management and Commercial Law, BPP University of London; 2Department of Applied Psychology, National University of Modern Languages NUML Islamabad.

*Corresponding Email: uzma_shafiq@hotmail.com

Citations: Liaqat M, Shafiq U and Shafique S, 2025. Exploring the socioeconomic and psychological factors contributing to youth drug addiction in district Lahore, Pakistan. Scientific Records 2(2): 69-75. https://doi.org/10.47278/journal.sr/2025.035

DOI: https://doi.org/10.47278/journal.sr/2025.035

Abstract: This paper addresses socioeconomic and psychological causes of youth drug addiction in Pakistan District Lahore. A quantitative, cross-sectional design was adopted to obtain the data using a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed through SPSS and both descriptive and inferential statistic (Multiple Linear Regression (MLR), correlation of Pearson, and logistic regression) were used. The results indicated that unemployment (M = 4.36, SD = 0.78) and poverty (M = 4.28, SD = 0.82) were the most significant socioeconomic factors that contributed to addiction. Among psychological predictors perceived stress (M = 4.32, SD = 0.79) and anxiety (M = 4.18, SD = 0.83) had greatest effect. Regression results (R² = 0.682, p = 0.01) revealed that both socioeconomic and psychological conditions were interrelated and explained 68 percent of the variance in addiction levels. The logistic regression also indicated that peer influence (Exp (B) = 5.70) and exposure to city life (Exp (B) = 3.38) were significant factors that increased the probability of drug use. The study recommends creating better employment and education opportunities for youth to improve their financial status. Further, psychological counseling and rehab facilities should be accessible to youth.