and bad taste in milk

ON-GOING RESEARCH PROJECTS FUNDED BY HIGHER EDUCATION

COMMISSION (HEC)

Title: Mutagenesis of Aspergillus niger for the Hyper Production of Glucose Oxidase

Salient Achievements: Glucose oxidase has wide range of applications especially in clinical

diagnosis of diabetes, in food and other industries. The increased utilization of this enzyme

requires its preparation with increased activity and at large scale, as well. Mutagenesis of

Aspergillus niger is an important technique through which the greater production of the enzyme

can be achieved. The principal objective of the project was the preparation of mutant derived

strain/(s) having the ability to hyperproduce the glucose oxidase. For this purpose, Aspergillus

niger has been subjected to chemical and physical mutagenesis to obtain such strains having

markedly improved glucose oxidase production. The optimizations of conditions (fermentation

media) by using selected strains were performed to get the maximal production of for glucose

oxidase. The enzyme thus obtained was subjected to ammonium sulfate precipitation, ion

exchange and gel filtration chromatography, sequentially. Thermodynamic and kinetic

parameters like melting temperature, ΔG*, ΔH*, ΔS*, Km, Vmax, Kcat and Ks were determined

for purified enzyme from A. niger EBL-A and mutant derived strains.

Contact Detail: Dr. Muhammad Anjum Zia, Assistant Professor, Biochemistry,

[email protected], 333 6575961

Title: Gene functional Analysis through Transposon Induced Mutations in Rice

Salient Achievements: Eighteen genes were tagged successfully and one newly reported GTP

binding protein gene has been characterized.

Contact Detail :Dr. Muhammad Anjum Zia, Assistant Professor, Biochemistry,

[email protected], 333 6575961

Title: Development of Immobilized Ligninase Enzymes and their Application in Industrial

and Environmental Biotechnology

Salient Achievements:

1. White rot fungi Pleurotus ostreatus IBL-02, Ganoderma lucidum IBL-05 and Trametes

versicolor IBL-04 produced 490±2.1 U/mL, 2008±3.5 U/mL and 964±12U/mL, Laccase, LiP

and MnP, respectively.

2. The immobilization supports including Ca-alginate, chitosan beads, gelatin gel and

hydrophobic gels were developed using glutaraldehyde as cross linking reagent and.

3. G. lucidum LiP was immobilized using the four supports/beads/gels and characterized against

free LiP. LiP immobilized in/on all supports had higher but varied pH and temperature optima as

compared to free LiP. The Chitosan beads immobilized LiP was the best enzyme having highest

temperature optimum and lower KM value with corresponding higher Vmax value showing that

immobilization enhanced thermostability, substrate affinity and catalytic efficiency of LiP.

4. Immobilization of MnP from Trametes versicolor IBL-04 was performed using all the four

types of supports. Ca-alginate beads had the highest immobilization efficiency (83.9%), followed

by chitosan beads (82.5%) and gelatin gel (61.24%). There was a significant rise in temperature

optima for Ca-alginate and chitosan immobilized MnPs that showed optimum activities at 60 and

65C0 temperature, respectively. The KM and Vmax values for immobilized MnPs with all the

supports had higher KM and Vmax suggesting that catalytic efficiency of MnP was enhanced by

immobilization.

5. Immobilization of Laccase from Pleurotus ostreatus IBL-02 was carried out and Ca-alginate

beads had the highest immobilization efficiency (89.37%). The temperature-activity profiles of

free and Ca-alginate and chitosan immobilized laccase showed maximum activities at 60°C. The

mailto:[email protected]


KM values of Ca-alginate beads immobilized (100 mM), Chitosan beads immobilized (97 mM)

and gelatin gel immobilized Laccase (91mM) were higher than the KM value for soluble

Laccase (79.9 mM) suggesting that immobilization using cross-linking reagent decreased its

affinity towards ABTS substrate. However, the catalytic efficiency of Laccase was significantly

improved in cas of Ca-alginate, chitosan and 1:2 T:P ratio hydrophobic xerogels.

6. The selected immobilized LiP, MnP and Laccase enzymes will be used for decolourization of

textile dyes and textile industry effluents.

Contact Detail :Dr. M. Asgher, Professor, Biochemistry, [email protected], 0300-

6653081

Title: Functional Exploration of Millet and Sorghum: an Advancement towards Food

Security

Salient Achievements: Duration of project is years research project; year one is completed and

year two is in progress 1st year is completed and reported has been sent to HEC and approved

Seven varieties of Sorghum and two varieties of millet were evaluated Proximate analysis was

conducted including the moisture, crude ash, crude protein, crude fiber and fat was determined

and significant results were obtained Antioxidant potential of the millet and sorghum varieties

was determined and a good antioxidant potential of these two cereals was found.

Total phenolic content was found, Condensed tannins were determined, Individual phenolic

acids were determined by using HPLC, Anthocyanins were determined by using HPLC

In the product development section we had prepared the breads from the composite flours of

sorghum and millet with different percentages. Research & thesis of two M.Sc. Students was

done in year one of the project

Thesis 1: Functional exploration of Sorghum & Millet with special reference to antioxidant

potential

Thesis 2: Biochemical profiling of Millet & Sorghum with special reference to Anthocyanins &

Condensed Tannins Contents

International publications

1. Pasha, I., F. Ahmad, M. Saeed. 2014. Biochemical Profiling of Sorghum and Millet with

Special Reference to Anthocyanins and Condensed Tannins Content. British Journal of

Agricultural Sciences 9(2): 371-379.

2. Pasha, I., A. Riaz, M. Saeed & M.A. Randhawa. 2014. Exploring the antioxidant perspective

of sorghum and millet. Accepted in Journal of Food Processing & Preservation (JFPP-11-13-

0581R3). (Impact Factor:0.45)

2md year activity is going on

Contact Detail :Dr. Imran Pasha, Assistant Professor, NIFSAT, [email protected],

0321-6886886

Title: Postharvest Storage Life and Quality Management of Litchi


(1) Harvest locations have been standardized.

(2) One best export potential commercial litchi cultivar has been screened out.

(3) One best commercial litchi cultivar has been selected with respect to cold-storage and post-

storage shelf conditions.

(4) Post-storage temperature has been optimized for cv. ‘Gola’.

(5) Best doses of hexanal, oxalic acid and ascorbic acid have been standardized in order to

manage pericarp browning and over all fruit quality of litchi cv. ‘Gola’.

(6) Controlled atmosphere (CA) comprising best oxygen and carbon dioxide concentrations has



been optimized for management of pericarp browning and shelf-life extension of export potential

litchi cv. ‘Gola’.

(7) Out of this project one research paper has been published in ISI indexed journal entitled as

Shafique, M., A.S. Khan, A.U. Malik and M. Shahid. Influence of harvest location and cultivar

on pericarp browning and biochemical fruit quality of litchi. Pak. J. Agric. Sci. 52 (1):123-128.

Another one is under review in Journal of Food Biochemistry entitled as Shafique, M., A.S.

Khan, A.U. Malik and M. Shahid. Exogenous application of oxalic acid delays pericarp

browning and maintain fruit quality of litchi cv. ‘Gola’.

(8) One M.Sc. and one PhD students have completed their degrees and two more M.Sc. and one

PhD students are enrolled whose work is being conducted/funded under this project.

Contact Detail :Dr. Ahmad Sattar Khan, Assistant Professor, Horticultural Sciences,

[email protected], 3338364813

Title: Impact of the Wheat Price Support Program on Small Farmers, Low Income

Consumers and Food Security

Salient Achievements: Introduction, Reviews Of Literature, Methodology, Pilot study

questionaires for both wheat producers and low income consumers, Pilot Study (questionnaires

for 10 producers and 10 consumers were filled), Finalalization of questionnaires for both wheat

producers and low income consumers for data collection, Surveyors training for data collection

(2 days), Data Collection from the fields (Wheat producers and low income consumers from

each cropping zones), Data Entry, Data Editing/Cleaning, finalization of Econometric

Techniques, Data Analysis have been completed. Results and Discussions, Conclusions,

Policy Recommendations, Complete Report of Project according to HEC format, Research

Papers are in process.

Contact Detail :Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ashfaq, Agricultural & Resource Economics,

[email protected] [email protected], 3006626237

Title: Influence of crop Allelopathy on the microbial diversity of Rhizopsphere


1-Two MSc. (Hons.) students have completed their degrees

2-One PhD student has complted 1st year research

3- Lab was equipped with PCR, gel electrophoreses, incubator, laminar flow, refrigerated

centrifuge machine, hot plate with stirrer, pippets etc.

4. The effects of different concentrations of water extract and residues of sun-flower, Brassica

and sorghab were determined on the control of weeds in mungbean, wheat and rice.

5. To determine the effects of different concentrations of water extract and residues of sun-

flower, Brassica and sorghab on the microbial diversity of rhizosphere of mungbean, wheat and

rice, culturing (plating method) has been started.

Contact Detail :Dr. Zubair Aslam, Assistant Professor, Agronomy, [email protected],

3347648783

Title: Optimizing Activity of Herbicides at Reduced Rates on Weeds with Adjuvants

Salient Achievements: Three wire house experiments were conducted at Agronomic Research

Farm, Department of Agronomy, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Pakistan, during winter

season 2013-14 to evaluate the efficacy of various herbicides applied at reduced rate in

combination with adjuvants for control of broadleaf, narrowleaf and complex weed flora in

wheat. These experiments were carried out in trays using completely randomized design with

four replications. Four adjuvants including ammonium sulfate (AMS @ 2%, 3%, 4% and 5%),

alkyl ether sulfate Na salt @ 400 ml ha-1, rapsoel methyl eser @ 400 ml ha-1 and fatty alcohol




ethoxylate @ 200 ml ha-1 were evaluated for their efficacy in enhancing activity herbicides. In

these experiments five broad leaved herbicides namely carfentrazone-ethyl @ 20 g a.i ha-1,

bromoxynil + MCPA @ 450 g a.i ha-1, clopyralid @ 222 g a.i. ha-1, tribenuron-methyl @ 55.5 g

a.i ha-1 and fluroxypyr + MCPA @ 444.6 g a.i ha-1; three selective herbicides for grasses

namely clodinafop-propargyl @ 44.5 g a.i ha-1, fenoxaprop-P-ethyl @ 926.25 g a.i ha-1 and

penoxaden @ 407.5 g a.i ha-1; and two broad spectrum herbicides namely sulfosulfuron and

mesosulfuronmethyl+iodosulfuron methyl (25g a.i ha -1 and 14.2 g a.i ha-1, respectively) were

used at recommended and reduced rate (75 %) with adjuvants..All broad leaved herbicides at

recommended rate without adjuvants resulted in 100% control of broadleaf weeds. Herbicides

including carfentrazone-ethyl, bromoxynil + MCPA and fluroxypyr + MCPA also resulted in

100% mortality of weeds when applied at reduced dose (75 % of recommended)in combination

with all adjuvants. While, performance of clopyralid and tribenuron-methyl at reduced dose with

adjuvants was variable ranging from 0-100% control with certain adjuvants. Bromoxynil +

MCPA and fluroxypyr + MCPA also showed 40-90% crop phytotoxicity when applied in

combination with 4 and 5% AMS as an adjuvant. These herbicides also showed a little

phytotoxic effect (10-30%) with chemical adjuvants. High concentration (4 & 5%) of AMS also

showed a slight phytotoxic effect when applied with reduced dose of carfentrazone-ethyl,

clopyralid or tribenuron-methyl. The maximum yield and yield components of wheat were

recorded where herbicides were applied at recommended dose. Carfentrazone-ethyl, tribenuron-

methyl and clopyralid when applied in combination with 2% AMS, alkyl ether sulphate Na salt,

rapsoel methyl eser or fatty alcohol ethoxylate also showed significant increase in yield and yield

components of wheat which was at par with recommended dose of these herbicides applied

alone. All narrow leaved herbicides at 75% of recommended rate (33.3 g a.i ha -1, 695 g a.i ha-1

and 305.5 g a.i ha-1, respectively) were sprayed with adjuvants namely alkyl ether sulphate

sodium salt @ 395.4 ml ha-1, rapsoel methyl eser @ 395.5 ml ha-1, fatty alcohol ethoxylate @

198 ml ha-1 and ammonium sulphate (AMS) 2-5%. Maximum biological yield (42.33 g),

number of tillers (29.5), plant height (84.88 cm), number of spikelets (17), number of grains per

spike and grain weight of wheat was observed with pinoxaden @ 407.5 g a.i ha-1. Pinoxaden @

305.5 g a.i ha-1+ alkyl ether sulphate sodium salt @ 395.4 ml ha-1 followed by fenoxaprop-p-

ethyl@ 695 g a.i ha -1 + rapsoel methyl eser @ 395.5 ml ha-1 gave more biological yield

(42.33 g), number of tillers (29.5 ), plant height (84.88 cm), number of spikelets (17), number of

grains per spike and grain weight. All treatments gave 100 % of Avena fatua and Phalaris

minor. Regarding broad spectrum herbicides, using recommended and reduced dose of these

herbicides resulted in complete control of all broad and narrow leaved weeds. The maximum

biological yield (25.42 g), plant height (80.75 cm), number of tillers (27.75) and grain weight per

spike (1.32 g) was observed with sulfosulfuron (25 g a.i ha -1) followed by those of

mesosulfuronmethyl+iodosulfuron methyl with alkyl ether sulphate Na salt, rapsoel methyl eser,

fatty alcohol ethoxylate and AMS 2 and3%. However, higher concentrations of AMS (4 & 5%)

have phytotoxic effect on wheat and shows negative results even lower than weedy check.

Maize

Five wire house experiments were conducted at student’s research farm, University of

Agriculture, Faisalabad to study the effect of adjuvants on the herbicide for weed control in

maize. Adjuvants used were alkyl ether sulphate sodium salt @ 400 ml ha-1, rapsoel methyl eser

@ 400 ml ha-1, fatty alcohol ethoxylate @ 200 ml ha-1 and ammonium sulphate (2 to 5%). The

first experiment comprised atrazine+nicosulfuron @ 520 g a.i. ha-1 + halosulfuron methyl @ 37

g a.i. ha-1 (recommended dose) and at 390 + 27.78 g a.i. ha-1, respectively (75% of

recommended dose) alone and in combination with above mentioned adjuvants along with

weedy check. In second experiment atrazine + S-metolachlor was used @ 720 g a.i. ha-1

(recommended dose) and at 540 g a.i. ha-1 (75% of recommended dose) alone and with above

said adjuvants along with weedy check control. In third experiment atrazine + mesotrione was

applied at 690 g a.i. ha- 1 (recommended dose) and at 515 g a.i. ha-1 (75% of recommended

dose) with and without each of the above said adjuvantns. The treatments in fourth experiment

were weedy check; atrazine + mesotrione + halosulfuron methyl @ 725 g a.i. ha-1(recommended

dose). The reduced dose of atrazine + mesotrione + halosulfuron methyl @ 545 g a.i. ha-

1(75% of the recommended) was used alone and in mixture with each of the above said

adjuvants. In fifth experiment nicosulfuran+atrazine +propisochlor @ 740 g a.i. ha-1

(recomended dose) nicosulfuran+atrazine +propisochlor @ 555 g a.i. ha-1 (75% of reomended

dose) was used alone and in combination with above said adjuvannts.

Based upon the first experiment results it was found that chemical adjuvants (alkyl ether

sulphate sodium salt, rapsoel methyl eser and fatty alcohol ethoxylate) increased weed control

efficiency of herbicide significantly. Among the various adjuvants under study, chemical

adjuvants gave better weed control as compared to ammonium sulphate. While among the

chemical adjuvants, addition of fatty alcohol ethoxylate to herbicide gave significantly lowest

weed density, weed dry weight and maximum weed control efficiency. Atrazine+nicosulfuron

+halosulfuron methyl was less effective when applied with higher concentration (4-5%) of

ammonium sulphate as compared to lower concentration. Maximum initial crop injury was

observed where rapsoel methyl eser and fatty alcohol ethoxylate were applied with herbicide.

Results of second experiment indicated that adjuvants applied with low dose of atrazine + S-

metolachlor increased the herbicide efficiency. The maximum control of weeds was obtained,

when atrazine + S-metolachlor @ 540 g a.i. ha- 1 was applied with alkyl ether sulphate sodium

salt @ 400 ml ha-1. In third experiment the highest control of Trianthema portulacasturm

(100%) and Dactyloctenium aegyptium (95.89%) was recorded with atrazine + mesotrione @

515 g a.i. ha-1 + alkyl ether sulfate sodium salt @ 400 ml ha-1 and for Cyperus rotundus

96.67% control was recorded with atrazine + mesotrione @ 515 g a.i. ha-1 + fatty alcohol

ethoxylate @ 200 ml ha-1. Results of forth experiment indicated that adjuvants had increased the

efficacy of atrazine + mesotrione + halosulfuron methyl and gave 98-100%, 79-92% and 45-75%

control of T. portulacastrum, D. aegyptium and C. rotundus, respectively. In fifth experiment the

maximum control (97%) of D. aegyptium was obtained by nicosulfuran +atrazine+propisochlor

@ 555g a.i. ha-1 + rapsoel methyleser @ 400 ml ha1 and for C. rotundus. maximum control

result (87%) was obtained by nicosulfuran+atrazine+propisochlor @555 g a.i. ha-1 + alkyl ether

sulphate sodium salt ha-1.@ 400 ml ha-1.The higher doses of ammonium sulphate (4% and

5%) with all herbicides under study resulted in phytotoxic effects on the maize crop. Seeds of

Amaranthus viridis L., Digera arvensis Forsk, Echinocloa colonum L., Tribulus terrestris L.were

also sown and germinated but were fully controlled and no weed was found when counted after

spray.

Contact Detail :Dr. Asif Tanveer, Professor, Agronomy, [email protected],

2934/03457734324

Title: Evaluation and Management of Sludge and Compost from Different Sources for

Sustainable Agriculture

Salient Achievements: Characterization of sewage sludge and compost samples collected from

different sources indicated higher concentration of nutrients (NPK) and heavy metals (Cd, Cu,

Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn) in all samples, the sludge samples contain more potential toxic metals as


compared to composts. The pot experiment was conducted with different sludges and composts

application rates (0.5% and 1.0 %) to grow rice in clay loam and sandy clay loam soils. Higher

level (0.1%) showed more accumulation of heavy metals in both soils and plants. The pore water

analysis results exposed that the ageing effect can decrease the availability of metals. Among all

the compost and sewage sludge samples, UAF and Super Bloom composts at lower level of

application (0.5%) remained better in improving the nutrients and pollution free crop

productivity (rice).

Contact Detail :Dr. Ghulam Murtaza, Professor, Soil & Environmental Sciences,


Title: Phytotherapy: An Easy and Economic Way to Cure the Gastro-intestinal Parasites in

Sheep

Salient Achievements: MILESTONES ACHIEVED

1. Seasonal (spring and autumn) distribution of gastrointestinal (GI) parasites among the

indigenous breeds of sheep in Sialkot and Chakwal, Punjab, Pakistan.

2. Determination of mineral profile in (a) sera of sheep, (b) soil samples and (c) the flora

preferred for feeding by the grazing sheep of Sialkot and Chakwal districts in order to determine

the associative analysis of trace element concentrations among soils, forages and sera of sheep

collected from the very area.

3. Determination of correlation of serum trace minerals profile with the quantitative faecal egg

count of GI parasites in sheep of Sialkot and Chakwal districts.

SALIENT ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE PROJECT

1. Human Resource Development: Mr. Hafiz Muhammad Rizwan S/o Mashooq Ali is appointed as Research Associate at a

consolidated pay of Rs. 20,000/- p.m on contract basis w.e.f 10-10-2014.

2. Infra-Structure Development: Permanent equipment was purchased and installed, Micropette™ Plus Autoclavable, Single

Channel Variable Volume, Vortex Mixer, Digital Burette Microprocessor,

McMaster Egg Counting Chamber, Bluespin LED Digital Magnetic Hotplate Stirrer

3. Student’s on-going: Two Ph.D. scholars (Abdul Qudoos, Effect of Trace Elements Profile of Different Soils and

Forages on Gastrointestinal Helminthiasis in Sheep and Hafiz Muhammad Rizwan, Association

of the Trace Mineral Profile of Soil, Forages and Blood with the Gastrointestinal Helminthiasis

in Rangland Sheep of District Sialkot, Punjab, Pakistan are completing their degrees) 4.

Conference Presentations: Sajid MS, HM Rizwan, N Iqbal, S Tahira, A Kausar, MA Hassan, A Qudoos, R Nadeem and

MN Khan, 2014. Prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections in rangeland sheep of district

Chakwal . 5th Int. Conference on “Agriculture, Food Safety and Climate change” held on Sep.

09-11, 2014, University of Poonch, Rawalakot and PAS- Forum. p. 238

Contact Detail :Dr. Muhammad Sohail Sajid, Assistant Professor, Parasitology,

[email protected]; [email protected], 333 650 8667



Fig. 1. Collection of samples from district Chakwal. A & B = collection of faecal and blood from sheep of

district Chakwal. C & D = collection of soil and plants from grazing site of district Chakwal.

Fig. 2. Collection of samples from district Sialkot. A & B = collection of faecal and blood from sheep of district Sialkot. C & D = collection of soil and plants from grazing site of district Sialkot.

Title: Effectiveness of “Assessment of actual carbon stocks and potentials of carbon

sequestration in agroforestry under semi-arid climate of Punjab

Salient Achievements: It is the first year of the project and first year consists of data collection

from three districrts: Faisalabad, Chiniot and Sargodha. Sites have been selected. Data have been

completed 100% from Chiniot district. 75% from Sargodha District and 25% from Faisalabad

District. Soil samples are being collected and being analysed for their carbon contents and

physico-chemical properties.

Contact Detail :Dr. Muhammad Farrakh Nawaz, Assistant Professor, Forestry Range

Management & Wildlife [email protected], 03336512087

Title: Performance Evaluation and Modification of Existing Indigenous Biomass Briquette

Forming Machine

Salient Achievements: Modification of existing biomass briquettes forming machine.

Development and fabrication of new piston press biomass briquetting machine. Testing and

performance evaluation of biomass forming machines. Economic analysis of briquettes as fuel

material against wood, natural gas and diesel. Convincing the farmers to adopt this technology

through proper awareness.

Contact Detail :Dr. Abdul Nasir, Assistant Professor, Structures & Environmental Engineering,

[email protected], 0321-8693445



Title: Indigenous On Campus Training (IOT) at UAF Modern University Governance

Program

Salient Achievements: In line with the objectives of Learning Innovation Division, HEC, to

enhance the capacity of human resource of BPS-16 and above (Non Teaching Community) the

Dean’s Committee in its meeting held on 7-7-2014, provided out lines for the series of

Indigenous On- campus Trainings(IOTs) Under Modern University Governance Program at UAF

:

• Sustainable development of modern urban universities,

• Communication skills. • Effective drafting skills and managing E- inventory of files.

• Managing student services system • UAF vision 2030 expectations from non-teaching staff.

• E-Governance – Data Dashboard system and Capacity Building in ERP. • Appreciative

approach in achieving organizational development goals. • Humanistic education.

To achieve these goals, the ORIC organized a series of IOTs (8th trainings with 35 participants

each having five days of each) at UAF with the details given below:

Hostel Management(August 25-29,2014)

• Hostel Management Skills • Modern Tools of Communication with youth

• IT Supports and Services • Inventory Management • Audit and Finance

• Co curricular/Sports and Social Work • Mess and Canteen Management

• Beautification and landscape Management • Drafting and Editing

• Disciplinary Rules /Actions -1 • Disciplinary Rules /Actions -2

• Ethics, Counseling Communication with Students • Participatory Management

• Notification and Circulars • E-mail Writing

Financial Management Inventory Control & Project Management (Two Trainings with

different participants September 01-05,2014 and February 17-21,2015)

• Counseling Skills • Social Media, Managing, e-Calendars, & E-mail writing Etiquettes with

activities • Budget & Finance • Auditing • Procurement Procedures

• Inventory Documentation and Control • Taxation • Project Management • Fee Collection

• Monetary Benefits for the Legal Heirs of Deceased UAF Employees

• Monitoring & Evaluation • ICT in Financial Management with activities

University Administration (Two Trainings with different participants Nov.17-21,2014 and

Nov,25-29,2014))

• Inter-Personnel and Counseling Skills • Drafting and Editing with activities

• Assets/ Inventory Management • Work Place Ethics and Zero Harassment Environment

• Strategic Management • Staff Management • Talent Development and Management

• Procurement Management • Financial Management • Leadership and Team Management

• Assessment and Evaluation • Social Media Email and Professionalism with activities

Admission, Examination and Quality Assurance(dec,15-19,2014)

• Inter-Personnel & Counseling Skills • Success over Stress at work place

• Fee Collection and Documentation • Leader ship and Team Management

• Work Place Ethics • Assessment and evaluation • Talent development and Management

• ICT for Administrators with activities • Time management with activities • Procurement

System at UAF • Monitoring and Evaluation • Quality Assurance in Teaching & Research

IT and Modern Universities(April 06-11,2015)

• Drafting and Editing, Agenda & Minutes • Challenges Faced by DEOs

• Right tool for the right job • Branding and use of Email & Social Media, sharing Data on

Cloud • Introduction to Databases: Microsoft Access • Design and Create Tables

• Design and Create forms • Generate Reports • Time Management • Microsoft Excel

• Introduction to Excel environment • Create charts, graphs, and pivot table

• Linking sheets & porting values to multiple sheets and workbooks • Microsoft PowerPoint

• Microsoft Word, Formatting: Margins, Header, footer, Page Layout • Animations &

Transitions • Work Place Ethics • Auto Table Contents • Track Change, Print Envelopes

Good Governance (May 07-12,2015)

• Time Management with activities • Self Awareness • Success Factors • Seed of Success

• Inter-Personnel & Counseling Skills • IT Equipment & Mgt. Skills • Financial Management

• Ethics in Good Governance • Procurement & Inventory Management

• Staff Development Teaching Skills Qualities of a Teacher • Management and Motivation of

Research Teams • Assessment and Evaluation • Good Governance and Leadership Skills

Contact Detail :Prof. Dr. Asif Ali, Director, ORIC, [email protected], 3009651941

Title: Functional Characterization Of Transgenic Tomato Plants Over-Expressing

SpERD15-2 gene

Salient Achievements: Transgenic lines showing higher expression of ERD15-2 showed

sensitivity to drought, salt and cold stress as compared to non-transgenic control. While, co-

suppression line showed somewhat better performance than the control.

Contact Detail :Dr. Khurram Zaif, Assistant Professor, Horticultural Sciences,


[email protected], [email protected], 3346633576

Title: Screening of Locally Lactic Acid Bacteria for the Production of Lantibiotics

Salient Achievements: Purchase of chemicals, culture media, glass wares and printer according

to the requirements of the project. Procurement and refreshing of lactic acid bacteria isolates.

Refreshing of Lactic acid bacteria in broth. Microscopic examination and identification of Lactic

acid bacteria.

Contact Detail : Dr. Muhammad Ashraf, Assistant Professor, [email protected], 3336625110

Title: Development of Animal Model of Fulminant Hepatitis and Study of Host Immune

Responses

Salient Achievements: Successfully developed the acetaminophen induced hepatitis in mice;

Establishment of liver enzymes dosing facility at Institute of Microbiology, UAF; Training of

postgraduate students for in vivo experimentation.

Contact Detail :Dr. Muhammad Imran Arshad, Assistant Professor , Microbiology,


Title: Expression Analysis and Characterization of Arabidopsis WRKY Genes under

Various Abiotic Stress Conditions and their Phylogenetic Relationship in Rice

Salient Achievements: The funding for this project is to be released, so uptil now there are no

acheivements of the project. However, the project aims at the characterization of WRKY11 and

WRKY17 in response to various abiotic stresses. This research will provide valuable information

& help for development of tolerance against various stresses.

Contact Detail :Dr. Muhammad Amjad Ali, Assistant Professor, Plant Pathology,


Title: Effect of Maturity Stage at Harvest on the Nutritive value and In situ Rumen

Degradation Characteristics of Maize, Sorghum and Millet

Salient Achievements: Result of this project will be very beneficial for the farmers to get

optimum production from the animals by feeding maize, sorghum and millet harvested at

suitable maturity stage.

Contact Detail :Dr Mubarak Ali, Assistant Professor, Animal Nutrition & Feed Technology,


COMPLETED PROJECTS Funded by HEC

Title: Study of polysacrrides produced by a newly discivered bacterium isolated from

Korean soil


1- The bacterial strain T2-Y C6788 was characterized well.

2- The novelty of the bacterial strain was proven through 16S rRNA gene sequencing

3- The strain can produe fructose and galactose from sucrose.

4- The bacterial strain had enhanced the germination of rice and has positive effects on the root

and shoot length of rice and wheat

5- One student of MSc. (Hons.) and one PhD were trained with PCR, sequencing and

phylogenetic analysis techniques

6- The office was well furnished with the furniture bought through this project

Contact Detail :Dr. Zubair Aslam, Assistant Professor, Agronomy, [email protected],

3347648783

Title: Exploring the potential of Azadirachta indica and Eucalyptus camaldulensis trees for

heavy metal phytoremediation of soil







Salient Achievements: It was found that Eucalyptus camaldulensis is more tolerant to salinity

and more efficient for pytoremediation of heavy metals in saline soils as compared to

Azadirachta indica

Contact Detail :Dr. Muhammad Farrakh Nawaz, Assistant Professor, Forestry Range

Management & Wildlife, [email protected], 3336512087

Title: Purification and characterization of antifungal peptides/proteins from potential

medicinal plants and construction of DNA libraries for hyper-expression

Salient Achievements: The project outcome will have positive impact on economy of the

country in future. The medicinal plants investigated under the study were from our indigenous

resources and found to contain valuable natural products i.e., antifungal proteins. There is a need

to isolate such products at a pilot scale for commercial use. Considering the importance of

antimicrobial compounds and their use we need to utilize such sources so that foreign exchange

can be saved. On the other hand such products may also be exported.

Contact Detail :Dr. Amer Jamil, Associate Professor, Biochemistry

Title: An In-depth analysis of Conventional and Modern Agricultural information Sources

for the Development of a strategy to Promote cyber Extension Environment in the Punjab,

Pakistan as Perceived by Stakeholders

Salient Achievements: 1) Development of Cyber Extension Lab in Institute of Agriculture

Extension and Rural Development 2) A course entitled “ Cyber Extension” has been included in

scheme of B.Sc. (Hons.) degree with Agriculture Extension 3) Web site like www.

zaraibaithak.pk, has been developed and is operative.

Contact Detail :Dr. Ijaz Ashraf, Assistant Professor, Agri. Extension & Rural Development

Title: To develop and indigenous technology for bioremediation of textile dyestuffs and dye

based industrial effluents.

Salient Achievements: Textile dyestuffs released into the industrial effluents are potential

pollutants due to their toxicity and carcinogenicity. Due to the high treatment costs and disposal

problems related to conventional physical and chemical treatment methods, both industries and

scientists are becoming compelled to search for innovative novel treatments and technologies

directed towards the decolourization of dye based effluents. White rot fungi (WRF) have great

potential for biodegradation of dyestuffs and bioremediation of dyes-containing industrial

effluents.

2. The local WRF cultures of Pleurortus ostreatus, Ganoderma lucidum, Coriolus versicolor,

Phanerochaete chrysosorium and Schyzophylum commune were used for biodegradation of

textile dyestuffs being extensively used in textile industry of Faisalabad. Different white rot

fungi were found to show highly variable colour removal efficiencies on different dyestuffs. The

best combinations of WRF and dyestuffs based on percent dye decolourization were selected for

further development/optimization of the dye decolourization process. The selected combinations

of WRF and dyestuffs were selected on the basis of maximum dye decolourization.

3. Pleurortus ostreatus was selected for decolorization of Drimarine Blue K2RL, Coriolus

versicolor for Remazol Brilliant Yellow and Scyzophylum commune for Cibacron Red. For

direct dyes Schyzophylum commune and Phanerochaete chrysosporium were selected for

decolourization of Solar golden yellow R and Solar orange RSN, respectively. Only one

combination of disperse dye Foron turquoise SBLN-200 and Ganoderma lucidum was chosen for

process optimization. From water insoluble Vat dyes Cibanone blue BFMD was the most

decolourized dye by Coriolus versicolor.

4. The dyes decolourization processes for the selected combinations were optimized. The effect


of medium pH, incubation temperature, additional carbon and nitrogen sources and initial dye

concentrations was studied. At the end of all optimizations, the ligniolytic enzyme activities

including lignin peroxidase (LiP), manganese peroxidase (MnP) and laccase were studied to

investigate the enzyme activities involved in dye degradation.

5. All the fungal strains were screened for decolourization of colored effluents coming out of

dying units of different textile industries of Faisalabad. Dye containing effluents of different

colors were collected from Arzoo Textile industry (ART) effluent, Crescent Textile industry

(CRT), Itmad Textile Industry (ITT), Megna Textile Industry (MGT), Ayesha Textile Industry

(AST) and Chenab Textile Industry (CHT) effluents. textile industries of Faisalabad, Pakistan.

6. Ganoderma lucidum IBL-05 and Coriolus versicolor IBL-04 caused maximum decolorization

of Arzoo textile industry (ART) effluent (lmax 515 nm) on 10th day of incubation. P. ostreatus

IBL-02 showed best decolorization results (68.32%) for CHT effluent in 6 days, followed by

CRT, ITT and ART effluents. However, Phanerochaete chrysosporium showed best

decolorization results (79.9%) for CRT, followed by CHT, ART, AST, MGT and ITT.

7. The decolourization process for selected combinations of WRF and effluents were then

optimized to get optimum decolorization results in minimum possible time. At the end of project

studies, the best performing strains were also used in mixed cultures for decolorization of

industrial effluents.

8. LMEs producing profiles and patterns of their expression varied among different WRF

cultures during decolorization of different types of dyes and effluents with laccase, manganese

peroxidase (MnP) and lignin peroxidase (LiP) playing major role in decolorization of different

dyes and effluents.

9. The maximally decolorized effluents were subjected to toxicity tests including chemical

oxygen demand (COD), Biological oxygen demand (BOD), nitroamines and formaldehyde and

were found to be detoxified as BOD, COD and formaldehyde and nitroamines contents were

within the permissible limits of reusable water.

Contact Detail :Dr. Muhammad Asghar, Professor, Biochemistry

Title: Hyper production of citric acid by Aspergillus niger through mutagenesis and

metabolic engineering in solid state fermentation of molasses medium


1. Sugar cane molasses is a complex medium and has high content of sugars and metals that

inhibit the growth of Aspergillus niger in liquid cultures leading to low citric acid yields.

2. Solid state fermentation (SSF) using agro-waste residues as carriers/support materials was

better yielding as compared to Liquid state Fermentation (LSF) for production of citric acid

3. Aspergillus niger was subjected to UV radiation and chemical mutagenesis to develop its

hyper-producing mutants for enhanced citric acid production.

4. The mutant EB-3 (treated with 1mg/ml ethidium bromide for 90 min) giving highest citric acid

yield (64.2 mg/ml) was selected as hyper-producing mutant.

5. Citric acid production process using EB-3 mutant was then optimized to enhance citric acid

production by the mutant in SSF. Aspergillus niger EB-3 mutant could produce 112.42 mg/mL

citric acid with sugar utilization of 121.84 mg/mL.

6. The molecular basis of hyperproduction by mutagenesis was investigated. However, the

sequence analysis of the genes showed a 15 nucleotide deletion mutation in the promoter region

of the citrates synthase gene of the mutant A. niger EB-3 that may be responsible for hyper-

production.

Contact Detail :Dr. Muhammad Asghar, Professor, Biochemistry

Title: Phytoremediation of Polycyclic aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) in association with

Microorganism containing ACC-deaminase enzyme

Salient Achievements: This study provided a base line to manage petroleum contaminated soils

and demonstrated that wise management of plant-microbes interactions can help us to remediate

the soil for better crop production. The outcome of the research is also very important to handle

soil pollution by accidental spills of petroleum products. Industry related to the petroleum

products can use this approach to remediate the accidental spill of petroleum products

Contact Detail :Dr. Hafiz Naeem Asghar, Assistant Professor, Soil & Environmental Sciences

Title: Studies on Poly(A) site strength and interaction of 3-end processing of mRNA to

transcription for understanding the mechanism of gene regulation in eukaryotic systems

Salient Achievements: The project addressed an important point of gene regulation in

eukaryotic systems. Long-term outcome of the research is to find answers against different

diseases in future. The mechanisms studied in the project are related in a fundamental way to the

kinds of mechanisms that break down in cancer. One reason that it is so hard to find “silver

bullets” in cancer is because the derangements involved usually reflect, not single components

out of balance, but vast networks of interactions headed in multiple wrong directions. Thus basic

research on mechanisms of intercommunication within networks of coupled interactions is

relevant to cancer. Apart from research outcomes, PhD, MPhil and MSc students were trained on

advanced molecular techniques.

Although the project was not on product development, it project will have positive impact on

economic development in terms of trained HRD which is an asset for any country. Moreover, the

studies carried out on tomato gene regulation will pave the way forward towards improvement of

crops by controlling expression of important genes. This will also contribute towards economic

development of the country.

Contact Detail :Dr.Amer Jamil, Professor, Biochemistry, [email protected], 0333-

6520634

Title: Purification, Immobilization and Characterization of Ligninases Produced by

Indigenous White Rot Fungi for Industrial Applications

Salient Achievements: 1. The ligninase enzymes (Lignin peroxidase, LiP; manganese

peroxidase, MnP and Laccase) production potential of five locally isolated white rot fungi

Pleurotus ostreatus IBL-02, Phanerochaete chrysosporium IBL-03, Coriolus versicolor IBL-04,

Ganoderma lucidum IBL-05 and Schyzophyllum commune IBL-06 using lignocellulosic agro-

based residues was investigated.

2. Maximum production of laccasse (935.48 U/mL) was achieved with wheat straw in 7 days of

solid state fermentation by Pleurotus ostreatus IBL-02, maximum LiP (1535.8 U/mL) after 10

days of incubation of wheat straw by Ganoderma lucidum IBL-05 and maximum production of

MnP (666 U/mL) in SSF corn cobs on 5th day of incubation by Coriolus versicolor IBL-04.

3. The fermentation growth parameters/conditions were optimized for hyper-production of

Laccase, LiP and MnP by Pleurotus ostreatus IBL-02, Ganoderma lucidum IBL-05 and Coriolus

versicolor IBL-04, respectively. The effects of medium pH, incubation temperature, moisture,

inoculums size, additional carbon sources (glucose, glycerol, starch, wheat bran and molasses),

additional nitrogen sources (urea, yeast extract, beef extract, peptone and corn steep liquor),

surfactants (Tween-80, Tween-20, Triton X-100 and SDS) and low molecular mass mediators

(veratryl alcohol, ABTS, H2O2, Oxalate and MnSO4) were studied on the production of

individual enzymes by the selected fungal strains. It was observed that laccase, LiP & MnP

production by Pleurotus ostreatus IBL-02, Ganoderma lucidum IBL-05 and Coriolus versicolor


IBL-04, respectively was substantially enhanced by optimizing pH and temperature. Under

optimum conditions, the activities of laccase, LiP and MnP produced by Pleurotus ostreatus IBL-

02, Ganoderma lucidum IBL-05 and Coriolus versicolor IBL-04 were 1490±2.1 U/mL, 2008±3.5

U/mL and 899±6.8U/mL, respectively.

4. Laccase, LiP and MnP produced by Pleurotus ostreatus IBL-02, Ganoderma lucidum IBL-05

and Coriolus versicolor IBL-04 under pre-optimized conditions were purified for their

immobilization and characterization

5. The inmmobilization of enzymes in hydrophobic sol gels was found to enhance activities,

thermostabilities and dye decolorization capabilities of the enzymes

6. The production of ligninolytic enzymes in high activities and their thermostabilization by

immobilization in hydrophobic sol-gels suggest the commercial scale production of these

enzymes by respective fungi for development of efficient enzyme consortia for delignification of

lignocellulosic biomass as well as for other industrial applications

Contact Detail :Prof. Dr. Muhammad Asghar, Professor, Biochemistry,


On-Going Research Projects Funded BY Pakistan Science Foundation (PSF)

Title: Evaluation of some cereal derived polysaccharides as natural biological response

modifiers and their therapeutic efficiency against ciccidiosis in chicken

Salient Achievements: Standardized the methods for the extraction of polysacchrides from

cereals. The arabinoxylans polysaccrides extracted from oat and barley had shown the

immunomodulatory potential and protective efficacy against Eimeria species in chicken.

Contact Detail: Dr. Muhammad Kasib Khan, Assistant Professor, Parasitology,


Title: Diagnosis of acaricide resistance in ticks of cattle and management of acaricide

resistant ticks by using medicinal plant extracts

Salient Achievements: After initiation of the project samples have been collected from all the

research sites. Trials for diagnosis of acaricide resistance in cattle ticks are going on.

Contact Detail: Dr. Zia ud Din Sindhu, Assistant Professor, Parasitology,


Title: Development of conditioned (Omega-3 rich) meat and eggs through modifications in

feed ingredients

Salient Achievements: Development and enhancing the availability of omega-3 enriched eggs

and meat for health conscious people. Human efficacy trails will conducted with the cooperation

of Punjab Medical College, Faisalabad

Contact Detail: Dr. Muhammad Issa Khan, Assistant Professor, NIFSAT,

[email protected], 0333-6627448, 041-2409297

Research Projects (Completed)

Title: Hyper Expression of Lysine and Transfer of Cellulase genes in Brevibacterium

Flavum for recycling of agroindustrial wastes

Salient Achievements: Main objective of the project was to develop a chimeric microorganism

(brevibacterium flavum) for hyperexpression of lysine and cellulases for recycling of agro-

industrial wastes. Brevibacterium flavum was procured from ATCC, USA. It was mutated to

construct an auxotroph with hyperexpression of lysine. Various fermentation conditions were

optimised for the growth of the bacterium and optimal production of lysine. Desired mutation

was achieved by employing chemical mutagenesis. Conclusively, a lysine hyperexpressed

mutant of B. flavum was generated with insertion and expression of a cellulase gene that





produced biomass with good quality protein when tested in a biological trial on broiler chicks.

Contact Detail: Prof. Dr. Amer Jamil, Biochemistry, [email protected], 0333-6520634

Title: Evaluation of indigenous trivalent vaccines for the control of mastitis in buffaloes

and cows

Salient Achievements: This study demonstrated that a cost effective control of mastitis through

vaccination is possible. Two shotsof FDAPV (formalin inactivated dextran sulphate-aluminiumk

hydroxide adjuvanted polyvalent vaccine) and FDPV (formalin inactivated dextran sulphate

adjuvanted polyvalent vaccine) were estimated to cost Rs. 500/- and 400/-, respectively. Thus,

the cost-benefit raatio for an immunological control of mastitis with two shots of FDAPV

translated into 1:6.1. The correspondubg ratio for the dextran sulphate adjuvanted vaccine

(FDPV) stood at 1:5.3.

Contact Detail: Prof. Dr. Ghulam Muhammad, Clinical Medicine & Surgery,


Title: Comparative evaluation of single super phosphate and di-calcium phosphate in cows

and buffallos: (I) Effect on production of health and (II) treatment of phosphorous-

associated clinical disorders

Salient Achievements: This study demonstrated that the super juice prepared from fertilizer-

grade single super phosphate is far too cheaper than the conventional source of phosphorus

supplementation (i.e. dicalcium phosphate; DCP) for dairy animal feeding and for the treatment

of a few selected phosphorus associated clinical disorders of dairy buffaloes and cows



On-Going Research Projects Funded BY Endowment Fund Secretariat (EFS)

Title: Introducing Farmers with UAF-11: a brassica oilseed elite line of the University of

Agriculture, Faisalabad

Salient Achievements: The spreading of seed of this line was achieved in Punjab, in other

provinces of Pakistan and also other countries like China and India. The outreach work in all

districts of Punjab was accomplished through brochures, flexes, banners, electronic and print

media, talks and visits to the farmers and farmers’ days at campus and outside campus. The seed

of UAF-11 for thousands of acres was multiplied here at campus/PARS under the direct

supervision of the breeding team every year. The seed was also multiplied at farmers’ fields to

meet the ever increasing demands. The seed was gifted to the farmers, visiting University of

Agriculture, Faisalabad during Rabi Mela and other events. Farmers in thousands obtained seed

of UAF-11 from the University directly from research team, Directorate of Farms and from other

farmers of their locality. Demonstrational/observational plots of UAF-11 were sown at farmers’

fields and Govt. farms in all Punjab and the seed was submitted to Federal Seed Certification &

Research Development for Distinctiveness, Uniformity and Stability evaluation which was

completed for two years. The seed was also given to National Agriculture Research Council for

National Uniform Rapeseed Yield Trials which have also been completed on multiple locations

for one years. The data on yield and yield performance traits at different locations of Punjab

were collected and analyzed at local level.

Contact Detail: Prof. Dr. Hafeez Ahmad Sadaqat, Plant Breeding & Genetics,


Title: Integrated control of drug resistant/susceptible worms of goat by targeted selective

treatments using FAMACHA

Salient Achievements: In present study, trials for diagnosis of anthelmintic resistance were





carried out at public and private farms and farmers were advised to change the drug in future,

where resistance was found. FAMACHA system was standardized for Pakistani breeds of sheep

and goat. This system has been evaluated for use in Beetal breed of goat and Kajli, Lohi and

Thali breeds of sheep in Punjab. Farmer’s days were also organized to educate the farmers

regarding targeted selective treatment and use of FAMACHA system. So far, more than 50

farmers have been trained for use of FAMCHA system at selected project sites in District

Faisalabad. Similarly, Anthelmintic activity of COWP was evaluated at LPRI, Okara in Beetal

breed of goat. After initial evaluation of anthelmintic activity of COWPs, free treatment was

provided at farms included in the project area. Farmers are now fully trained in using

FAMACHA system and convinced for using new treatment method i.e. use of COPWPs for

control of drug resistant Haemonchus contortus.

Contact Detail: Dr. Zia ud Din Sindhu, Assistant Professor, Parasitology,


Title: Establishment of mushroom cultivation unit for demonstration and growth trials of

wild and exotic mushrooms

Salient Achievements: Established mushroom demonstration unit. 2. Established model

mushroom farms in private sector. 3. Training courses are being organized to prospective

growers.

Contact Detail: Prof. (Rtd.) Dr. Muhammad Asif Ali, Horticultural Sciences,


Title: Quantification of agro-forestry services and increment in agroforestry area in

District Khushab through participatory approach

Salient Achievements: It was found that in Noorpur Thal region of Khushab district trees are

being planted in compact block which are annually sequestring 6.58 Megatons of CO2 with other

benefits in term of fodder, leaves, soil stabilization and soil conservation. However the potential

of agrofoestry is manyfolds higher. 50,000 plants have been provided in research area to plant

68 acres compact plantations .

Contact Detail: Dr. M. Farrakh Nawaz, Associate Professor, Forestry, Range Management &

Wildlife, [email protected], 0333-6512087, Ext. 2924

Title: Dissemination of seed production technology of important crops (Component I:

Vegetable seed Production)

Salient Achievements: Different aspects of vegetable seed production viz., maintenance of

isolation distance, discard strip technique, rouging methods, impact of flower/inflorescence

position on seed quality and appropriate crop maturity, were elaborated to various groups of

farmers from different areas. Production technology of early onion was demonstrated to farmers

and rural women group. Seed packets were distributed among flood affected farmers and those

who attneded Kisan Mela 2015. Two M.Sc. students had completed their research thesis during

2014 while six M.Sc. and three Ph.D students are conducting their research on various aspects of

seed production. Seed was also sold and income (about Rs. 80,000) has been deposited in EFS,

UAF account.

Contact Detail: Dr. Khurram Ziaf, Assistant Professor, Horticultural Sciences,

[email protected], [email protected], 0334-6633576, 041-9201086

Title: Water economics of growing Basmati, hybrid and coarse rice in Punjab, Pakistan

Salient Achievements: Intorduction, Reviews Of Literature, Finalization of Methodology, Pilot

study questionaires for both Rice producer and consumers, Pilot Study (8 producers and 8

consumers questionnaires were fulfilled), Final questionnaires for data collection, Surveyors





training for data collection (3 days), Data Collection (Rice producers and Rice consumers from

major rice growing districts of Punjab), Data Entry, Data Editing/Cleaning, Finalized

Econometrics Techniques, Data Analysis, Results and Discussions, Conclusions, Policy

Recommendations are completed.

Complete Report of Project according to EFS formated is almost completed and will be

submitted to EFS and ORIC, UAF within 2-3 days both in hard and soft form.

Research Papers are in process.

Contact Detail: Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ashfaq, Agricultural & Resource Economics,

[email protected], 0300-6626237, Ext. 2802

Title: Demonstration of in vitro clonal propagation system in elite guava cultivars

Salient Achievements: Survey of the main guava producing areas including Lahore, Faisalabad

and Sahiwal regions have been completed for selection and collection of fruits of elite guava

strains for fruit quality analysis. Morphological characterization and fruit quality analysis of 24

strains in Gola cultivars and 28 strains in Surahi cultivars have been completed. The clonal

multiplication procedure for the development of mother plants in selected elite strains is in

progress. Guava cultivars selected under EFS funded projects are being established as

germplasm resource in the University gardens. The technology is being demonstrated and

disseminated to the progressive growers and other stake holders through participation in

exhibitions, conferences and web resources.

Contact Detail: Dr. Muhammad Usman, Assistant Professor, Horticultural Sciences,

[email protected], 0322-3813030, Ext. 2943

Title: Varietal Identification and Purity Checking of Wheat Cultivars/Hybrids through

PCR Based DNA Fingerprinting

Salient Achievements: A diverse wheat germplasm has been collected and DNA has been

extracted. >200 primers have been designed and synthesized. PCR analysis is underway. Since

this is 5th month of project initiation.

Contact Detail: Dr. Zulfiqar Ali, Associate Professor, Plant Breeding & Genetics,

[email protected], [email protected], 041-9200161- 70 Ext 2921

Capacity Building of Farming Community in Collaboration with FAP Funded by EFS

The Farmers Associates of Pakistan (FAP) has extended its cooperation and collaboration with

UAF for the capacity building of farmers regarding mechanized forming, rational use of

fertilizer and water saving technologies to maximize per acre yield. During 2014-15 the ORIC –

FAP organized capacity building farmers Conventions/Seminars at Okara, Rahim Yar

khan,Khanewal, Hafizabad to educate farmers regarding advanced farming technologies for

potato ,cotton and rice crops where UAF scientists/ researchers shared their knowledge and

expertise with the farmers and got feedback about their problems to finalize the research

priorities while EFS provided funding for this project.

Date and & Venue (April 12, 2014) R.C.A. Hall, Khanewal

Rational use of fertilizer, water and other inputs will curtail expenses on the crops, maximize the




profit and resultantly resources will be conserved.

Date and Venue: (April 15, 2014) Pakpattan

Efficient use of water, balance use of Fertilizer, good agricultural practices, farm mechanization

and Sharing modern ways of successful cotton cultivation in Pakistan

Date and Venue: (May 04, 2014) Sadiqabad (District Rahim Yar Khan)

Packages of Technology for Cotton cultivation for the farmers to enhance per acre yield of the

crops. Rational use of fertilization water and other inputs will curtail expenses on the cotton and

maximize the profit by improving the living standard of the farming community.

Date & Venue ; 21-09-2014 at Okara Art Council Hall

Efficient use of water, balance use of Fertilizer, good practices and farm mechanization with

modern production technologies, Diseases and pest management of Potato

Date and Venue: (April, 26, 2015) Sadiqabad (Rahim Yar Khan)

The event was to create awareness and educate the farmers to adopt best practices of soil

preparation, cotton sowing and harvesting as well as to promote the better cotton standard

system

Date and Venue: (May 9, 2015) Hafizabad

The goal of the event was to create awareness and educate the farmers to adopt best practices of

soil preparation, Rice Sowing, transplanting and harvesting as well as to promote the better Rice

standard system

Research Projects (Completed)

Title: A Rural and Peri-Urban Outreach Mastitis Control Program Focusing on Transfer

of Technologies Developed by University of Agriculture, Faisalabad Focus area: Narwala

& Surrounding villages

Salient Achievements: Execution of this technology transfer project demonstrated that the rural

dairy farmers can be trained in farmers level early diagnosis of mastitis to by using Surf Field

Mastitis Test and in mastitis control through post milking antiseptic teat dipping coupled with

early antibiotic treatment and vaccination.



Title: Demonstration of Modern Technologies through Kissan Mela

Salient Achievements: This project was designed for creation of awareness about modern

agricultural technologies among farmers, to increase interaction among farmers, agricultural

scientists and extension workers and to display of modern agricultural machinery, equipment and

technologies/products. The project remained highly successful in introducing improved

agricultural technologies to the ultimate users, i.e. farmers through University Festival and

Kissan Mela. Through these occasions all stockholders get opportunity to have direct face-to-

face interaction with each other and share their views, experience and knowledge. It is perhaps

the best mode of integration of indigenous knowledge and science based knowledge. The horse

and cattle show provided a chance to buy and sell the animals, discuss and review the problems

of the managers, riders and industry with academia

Contact Detail: Prof. Dr. Ghulam Murtaza, Soil & Environmental Sciences,


Title: Field Demonstration of Salt Tolerant Tree and Forage Species on Salt-affected Land

at Proka Farm, UAF

Salient Achievements: Saline agriculture technology was successfully demonstrated through

this project at Proka Farm, UAF. Two farmer days were organized in the second and third year

of the project to demonstrate the technology to the farmers. Two M. Sc and one Ph. D students

completed their thesis research on this aspect. Five peer reviewed journal publications are in

preparation process based on the data obtained from the project.

Contact Detail: Dr. Muhammad Saqib, Associate Professor, Soil & Environmental Sciences,


Title: Gender Empowerment and Home Life Improvement of Rural Poor through




Appropriate Technology Transfer

Salient Achievements: (1) Conducted bench mark survey with the help of survey team which

consisted of University experts and postgraduate students to assess the training needs of rural

women at project area Chak No. 260RB (Waheela Kalan), Union Council No. 133, Tehsil

Dijkot, Faisalabad. (2) Successfully conducted need based and income generated community

courses under summer camp at different campuses of Laboratory Schools, UAF. (3) Planned and

conducted demonstrations. (4) Imparted training to rural women in identified income generating

skills for home life improvement on the basis of their priorities including beautician, sewing &

stitching, cooking, artificial jewelry, home management, preservation of fruits/vegetables, and

fortification of food. (5) Evaluated effectiveness of training sessions. (6) Improved trainings

sessions based on evaluation results.

Contact Detail: Prof. Dr. Tanvir Ali, Agricultural Extension and Rural Development,

[email protected], [email protected], 0304-3024062

On-Going Research Projects Funded BY Pakistan Agriculture Research Board (PARB)

Title: Documenting and Mitigating the Impact of Pesticides and Heavy Metals on

Vegetables

Salient Achievements: Samples for 04 vegetables were collected from 03 districts, from 30

locations at three maturity levels. Each sample was collected and analyzed in triplicate. Total

number of samples were 3240. 1. Complete data base for pesticide residues has been completed.

2. The database for all the samples with regard to heavy metals have also been completed. 3.

The mitigation strategies for pesticides and heavy metals residues has been studied.

Contact Detail: Dr. Imran Pasha, Assistant Professor, NIFSAT, [email protected], 0321-

6886886

Title: Development Evaluation and Promotion of Cost Effective, Low Polluting and

Floating Fish Feed for Enhancing the Productivity of Labeo rohita

Salient Achievements: Four experimental diets of soybean meal based as well as sunflower

meal based were prepared by replacing fish meal with soybean meal and sunflower meal (feed

ingredients). Out of four soybean meal based diets, the diet with 12% fish meal and 56% soybean

meal performed better. The weight gain of fish was 243.58g as compared to control group where

the weight gain was 116.78 g. Similarly, the growth of Labeo rohita (rohu) on diet having fish

meal 24% and sunflower meal 43% was higher (195.75 g) then control group (172.12).

Contact Detail: Prof. Dr. Muhammad Afzal, Zoology & Fisheries, [email protected], 0321-

4100554

Title: Development Evaluation and Promotion of Cost Effective, Low Polluting and

Floating Fish Feed for Enhancing the Productivity of Labeo rohita

Salient Achievements: Production and safety evaluation of low cost floating extruded fish feed

for enhanced production of Labeo rohita. Quality assessment and safety of fish meat fed on

experimental diets will be carried out.

Contact Detail: Dr. Muhammad Issa Khan, Assistant Professor, NIFSAT, [email protected] ,






INTERNATIONAL PROJECTS

Title: Effect of Bt Cotton on Chemistry, Microbial Community Structure and Enzymatic

Activity in the Rhizosphere Soil Salient Achievement: Study provided baseline information regarding potential impacts of Bt

cotton residues on substrate use efficiency, activity and diversity of soil microbial community

and influence on nutrient dynamics. Study revealed that phosphatase and dehydrogenase

activities were high in Bt-cotton rhizosphere as compared to non Bt rhizosphere. Significantly

higher number of viable and culture able bacteria were observed in the Bt rhizosphere as

compared to non Bt-cotton rhizosphere. Results suggested that cry protein persistence in

rhizosphere of Bt-cotton had no measurable adverse effect on the key microbial processes or

microbial community composition and biochemical properties.

Funded by: International Life Sciences Institute (ILSI) Research Foundation

Contact Details: Dr. Hafiz Naeem Asghar Ch., Associate Professor, Institute of Soil &

Environmental Sciences, UAF

Email: [email protected] Contact #: 0300 6615229

Title: Formulating water Policy Based on Rationalization of Water Allocations using

Remote Sensing and GIS Modeling

Salient Achievement: Rationalized water allocations. Land use land cover mapping of

Irrigated Indus Basin. Spatially distributed Soil salinity and water quality information. Spatial

information on crop water use and Water productivity of major crops in Pakistan. High

Production costs if groundwater is used. The variation in wheat yield ranged between 5280 to

700 kg ha-1 while rice yield varies from 3300 to 1900 kg ha-1. Water productivity of wheat is

variable with maximum of 1.34 kg m-3 and minimum estimated at less than 0.2 kg m-3. The

mean, median and standard deviation estimated at 0.65, 0.58 and 0.32 kg m-3, respectively.

Water productivity of rice is variable with maximum of 1.12 kg m-3 and minimum estimated

at less than 0.4 kg m-3. The mean, median and standard deviation estimated at 0.60, 0.57 and

0.19 kg m-3, respectively. The cost incurred to irrigate one acre of land by groundwater is

around Rs. 6,000 and Rs. 12,000 for wheat and rice, respectively while canal water cost is only

Rs. 50 and Rs. 85. The cost of production is also higher in areas where groundwater is being

used. A rationalization policy based on cost, and water productivity is suggested to reduce the

cost gap between two irrigation sources.

Funded by: International Food Policy Research Institute

Contact Details: Dr. Muhammad Jehanzeb Masud Cheema, Assistant Professor, Department

of Irrigation & Drainage, UAF

Email: [email protected] Contact #: 0323-9658839

Title: Developing near Real Time Intelligence Water Allocation System using Remote

Sensing and Modeling

Salient Achievement: A Near real time water distribution/allocation model will be developed

that could be used to devise water distribution scenarios based on actual water requirement of

the crops.

A knowledge base on current water use by the major crops in canal commands using remote

sensing

Calibration and validation water allocation hydrological model for the irrigated areas of the

Indus Basin



Application of near real time water distribution model to transfer surface supplies from one

command area to other based on water use flux


Contact Details: Dr. Muhammad Jehanzeb Masud Cheema, Assistant Professor, Department

of Irrigation & Drainage, UAF


Title: Multiplication and Commercialization of New Potential Mango Accessions Salient Achievement: Newly selected ten mango accessions have been conserved at fruit

orchard UAF by establishing an independent block of these plants. Process for the

multiplication of plants such as purchase of seeds/seedling plants/ their establishment and

maintenance has been started. On farm meeting was conducted in the field of mango growing

areas of Pakistan.

Funded by: AIP, UC-Davis, USA

Contact Details: Dr. Ahmad Sattar Khan, Associate Professor, Institute of Horticultural

Sciences, UAF


Titled: Strategies to Control Diseases and Increasing Productivity of Livestock Sector

through Improved Breeding in Punjab

Salient Achievement: The following have been accomplished: Write up of chapters on

Introduction, Reviews of Literature, Finalization of Methodology, Pilot study of

questionnaires, Finalization of questionnaires for data collection, Surveyors training for data

collection, Data Collection from two districts have been completed.


Contact Details: Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ashfaq, Institute of Agri. & Resource Economics,

UAF


Title: Study to Develop Guidelines on Social Mobilization of Farmers Organizations

Salient Achievement:

o Orientation and holding of workshop

o Review of literature

o Selection of Efficient FOs and Pilot Study

o Training and Refreshing Sessions

o Finalization of Questionnaire and Field Surveys

o Development of Guidelines

o Implementation of guideline in Field

o Modification and finalization of guideline

o Final Seminar was held

Funded by: Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA)

Contact Details: Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ashfaq, Institute of Agri. & Resource Economics,

UAF



CONSULTANCY/ UNIVERSITY INDUSTRY LINKAGES PROJECTS

Title: Improvement of Mango Orchard, Vegetable Organic Crop Growth in Collaboration with

Nasrabad Farms (Pvt) Ltd, Sindh


1-Technical input to improve crop yields.

2-Nutrient package prepared for mango, vegetables and other crops production to improve the

yield

3-Suggestions provided to improve /maintain soil health.

Contact Detail:

Prof. Dr. M. Yaseen, Institute of Soil & Environmental Science, UAF. 041-9200844

[email protected]

Title: Improvement of Alfalfa Growth in Collaboration with SB Farms (Pvt) Ltd, Bhowana Road,

Jhang


1-Technical input provided to improve fodder yield.

2-Nutrient package prepared for alfalfa production to maintain fodder supply round the year.

3-Suggestion provided to improve /maintain soil health.

Contact Detail:

Prof. Dr. M. Yaseen,Institute of Soil & Environmental Science, UAF. 041-9200844

[email protected]

Title: Enabling Agricultural Policies for Benefiting Small Holder in Dairy, Citrus and Mango

Industries in Pakistan in Collaboration with Victoria University, Melbourne Australia


Consultancy services were provided on Enabling Agricultural Policies for benefiting small holder

in dairy, citrus and mango industries in Pakistan.

Contact Detail: Dr. Babar Shahbaz, Associate Prof. (IAE&RD), UAF (0300-5304934)

Dr. M. Khalid Bashir, Lecturer, (IARE), UAF.

Title: Consultancy Agreement for Post Harvest Management Skills Project, in Gilgit Biltistan in

Collaboration with CABI, Pakistan


Consultancy services were provided on Post Harvest Management Skills in Gilgit Biltistan.

Contact Detail: Dr. Mubashir Mehdi,Assistant Prof.,Institute of IBMS, UAF 041-9201096

[email protected]

Title: Development of Financial Products for Testing & Implementation of Innovative Techniques

and Methodologies in Agriculture & Livestock sector. In Collaboration with First Micro Finance

Bank Ltd. Islamabad.


Consultancy services were provided by Dr. Jehanzeb Masud, Dr. Ghulam Murtaza and Dr. Abdul

Ghafoor and visited different sites in D.G.Khan, Rajanpur and Layyah Districts for

Installation of solar powered tubewells.

Contact Detail: Dr. Jehanzeb Masud, Assistant Prof., Irrigation & Drainage, UAF.

0336-8303500 [email protected]

Title: Development of Dairy Farm/ Establishment of Dairy/Beef Unit and Fodder Production

Supply System in Collaboration with J.K. Dairy Farms


Consultancy services were provided alongwith technical input to establish dairy/beef unit and





fodder production supply round the year.

Contact Detail: Dr. M. Raiz, Associate Prof., Institute of Animal Sciences, UAF.


Title: Development and Implementation of Code of Practices at Pilot Scale in Mango Industries

in collaboration with United Nation Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO)


Consultancy services were provided for development and implementation of Code of Practices at

Pilot Scale in Mango Industries in Pakistan

Contact Detail: Prof. Dr. Aman Ullah Malik, Project Coordinator, Institute of Hort. Sciences,

UAF, 041-2409303 [email protected]

Title: Development and Implementation of Code of Practices at Pilot Scale in Kinnow Industries

in collaboration with United Nation Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO)


Consultancy services were provided for development and implementation of Code of Practices at

Pilot Scale in KinnowIndustries in Pakistan



Title: Establishment and Maintains of Landscape at BISE, Faisalabad.


Consultancy services were provided for newly constructed building’s beautification and

Landscape at Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education, Faisalabad.

Contact Detail: Dr. Adnan Younas, Assistant Prof., Institute of Hort. Sciences, UAF, 041-

9201085 [email protected]

Dr. Atif Riaz, Associate Prof., Institute of Hort. Sciences, UAF, 041-9201085 [email protected]

Title: Commercial Scale Flower Production in Collaboration with J.K Agricultural Farms (Pvt)

Ltd Jhumra, Faisalabad.


Consultancy services were provided for commercial scale production of Gladiolus flowers.

Contact Detail: Dr. Atif Riaz, Associate Prof., Institute of Hort. Sciences, UAF


Dr. Adnan Younas, Assistant Prof., [email protected]

Title: Research & Development and Technical Knowledge for the Establishment of Rosa

Centifolia Certified Nursery in Collaboration with Green Revolution (Pvt) Ltd. Lahore,

Salient Achievements: Consultancy services were provided for Research & Development and

technical knowledge for the establishment of Rosa Centifolia certified nursery

Contact Detail: Prof. Dr. Muhammad Aslam Khan, Project Director (Rose) Institute of Hort.

Sciences, UAF. (041-9200161-70 ext. 2945)

Title: Supply Chain Improvement Project On selected Agriculture Products in collaboration with

Agriculture Department Govt. Of the Punjab

Salient Achievements: UAF-team has successfully completed Global GAP certification of water

melon client at Chunia, Kasur under this project.

Contact Detail: Prof. Dr. Asif Ali, Director ORIC 041-9200183, 0300-9651941 E-mail:

[email protected]

Title: Establishment and Rejuvenation of Fruit Orchard in Collaboration with J.K Agricultural

Farms (Pvt) Ltd., Jhumra, Faisalabad.









Salient Achievements: Consultancy services were provided for establishment and rejuvenation of

fruit orchard which were declined due to pest, diseases and climatic condition.

Contact Detail: Dr. Saeed Ahmad, Associate Prof., Institute of Hort. Sciences, UAF


Title: Development of New Agriculture Farms in collaboration with Allied Engineering Ltd.

Salient Achievements: Consultancy services were provided alongwith technical assistance for the development of new

Agriculture farms.

Contact Detail: Prof. Dr. Allah Bakhsh, 0301-7041012 Faculty of Agri. Engineering &

Technology , UAF

Dr. Mubashir Mehdi, Assistant Prof., Institute of IBMS, UAF, 041-9201096

[email protected]

Title: Rural Development and Livelihoods in collaboration with Sustainable Development Policy

Institute, Islamabad.

Salient Achievements: The project is under way, data is being collected on different parameters of livelihoods.

Contact Detail: Dr. Babar Shahbaz, Associate Prof. (IAE&RD), UAF (0300-5304934)

Title: Technology Transfer for Bacillus Species (Strain-S-5) PGPR in collaboration with M/s

Jaffer Biotech Pvt Ltd. Karachi

Salient Achievements: A package of technology has been provided for Bacillus Species (Strain-

S-5) PGPR for its Mass Scale Production and marketing.

Contact Detail: Prof. Dr. M. Arshad, Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, UAF, 041-9200581

[email protected]

Title: Acquisition of Veterinary Knowledge Expertise and Guidelines in Collaboration with

Sapphire Solutions Lahore

Salient Achievements: Consultancy services for veterinary medicines development of data base

and software for animal health were provided by UAF experts.

Contact Detail: Prof. Dr. Asif Ali, Director ORIC 041-9200183, 0300-9651941 E-mail:

[email protected]

Title: Fruit and Vegetable Export Development in Collaboration with Fauji Fresh n Freez (Pvt.)

Ltd

Salient Achievements: A package of technology has been shared for curtailing post harvest

losses, enhance shelf life of fruits and vegetables to be exported.



Title: R&D Work Regarding Fresh Product (Safe ripe) in Collaboration with Koldware Industries

(Pvt.) Ltd.

Salient Achievements: Consultancy services were provided in R&D for fresh product (Safe ripe)

and solved technical issues in the fabricated system



Title: Model Farming for Sustainable Agriculture in collaboration with HR Chemical Group,

Multan,

Salient Achievements: A special product (a balanced plant nutrition, Protector) has been

registered on the basis of this collaboration with and is being marketing. Capacity building of

farmers is being carried out for balanced use of fertilizers and plant nutrients.







Contact Detail: Prof. Dr. M. Yaseen, Institute of Soil & Environmental Science, UAF.


Title: Fruits and Vegetables Processing and Preservation in collaboration with M/s Pakistan

Horticulture Development and Export Company, Lahore

Salient Achievements: A package of technology was provided to curtail post harvest losses,

Processing and Preservation techniques.

Contact Detail: Dr. Faqir Muhammad Anjum, ex. D.G. NIFST

Title: Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Handling Techniques in collaboration with M/s Pakistan

Horticulture Development and Export Company, Lahore

Salient Achievements: A package of technology was provided to Handle fresh fruits and

vegetables with their full nutritional value.

Contact Detail:

Dr. Faqir Muhammad Anjum, ex. D.G. NIFST

Title: Evaluation of agrono max /greena max (nutrients) for summer vegetables and cotton under

drip and bed furrow irrigation methods in collaboration with Tauseef Enterprises PVT Ltd.

Salient Achievements: Through trials a product was evaluated under different sets of sowing

techniques to test its efficiency/ field adoptability.

Contact Detail: Faculty of Agri. Engineering & Technology, UAF, 0300-7236447

[email protected]

Title: Agricultural Land Utilization in collaboration with Monsanto Pakistan

Salient Achievements: A multinational company in collaboration with UAF has established a

model farm for farmers and students to showcase its modern technologies/ protocol for GMO

crops.

Contact Detail: Prof. Dr. Asif Ali, Director ORIC 041-9200183, 0300-9651941

E-mail: [email protected]

Title: Modified Atmosphere Packaging & Postharvest Technologies in collaboration with Ned-

Pak Technical Packaging & Instruments, Karachi

Salient Achievements: A package of technology was provided to enhance shelf life and to

minimize post harvest losses as a consultancy service provider.


UAF, 041-2409303

[email protected]

Title: Agricultural Land Utilization in collaboration with Dupond Pioneer Seed (Pvt)Ltd.

Salient Achievements: A multinational company has intended to collaborate with UAF for

model farming for farmers and students to showcase its modern technologies/ protocol for GMO

crops.

Contact Detail: Prof. Dr. Asif Ali, Director ORIC 041-9200183, 0300-9651941

E-mail: [email protected]

Title: Skill for Farms in collaboration with Punjab Skill Development Fund Lahore

Salient Achievements: A capacity building program has been initiated for coaching of male and

female for modern agricultural farms establishment and their management on scientific basis.

Different groups have completed this training.

Contact Detail: Dr. M. Athar Javeed Khan, Assoc. Prof. Continuing Education, 0333-9948215

Email: [email protected]

Title: Skill for Biogas Plant in collaboration with Punjab Skill Development Fund Lahore

Salient Achievements: A Capacity building program has been initiated for different farmer







groups to install bio-gas plants their maintenance and management after wards. Different groups

have completed this training.

Contact Detail: Dr. Anjum Munir, Assoc. Prof. Dept Energy system Eng. 0300-9667687 Email:

[email protected]

Title: Skills for Jobs 2014-15 in collaboration with Punjab Skill Development Fund Lahore

Salient Achievements: Capacity building program has been initiated for different age groups to

start their own business rather to seek government jobs. Different groups have completed this

training.

Contact Detail: Prof. Dr. Mahmood A. Randhawa, continuing education, 041-92001212 email:

[email protected]

Title: Skill for employability 2015 in collaboration with Punjab Skill Development Fund Lahore

Salient Achievements: Capacity building program has been initiated for different age groups to

create employability/ startup companies to gear up their business, Different groups have completed

this training.

Contact Detail: Prof. Dr. Mahmood A. Randhawa, continuing education, 041-92001212 email:

[email protected]




Documents

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