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Rapid visual screening (RVS) is a practically viable tool implemented all over the world to rank structures based on their seismic vulnerability. Seismic assessment of hospital buildings is essential in seismic-prone regions to ensure their structural integrity and readiness to provide emergency care and medical treatment after significant seismic events. Therefore, in the current study, an approach is developed that is similar to the proven methodologies reported in the literature, for the seismic evaluation of structural and non-structural elements of hospital buildings in a metropolitan city like Karachi. Karachi is located in the southwest of Pakistan and is vulnerable to earthquake and tsunami hazards. To this end, an android-based RVS system has been developed for large-scale seismic risk mapping of hospital buildings. The proposed system acquires the physical status of the building features in real time and identifies the building performance obtained from the calculated seismic risk index. Moreover, three case study hospital buildings were employed and analysed through the proposed RVS system. Results illustrate the performance of case study hospital buildings at organisational, structural and non-structural levels based on seismic risk indices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Let S be a unital prime ∗-ring containing a nontrivial symmetric idempotent and let m s (S) be the maximal symmetric ring of quotients of S. Using the technique of Peirce decomposition and the theory of functional identities, we prove that a map : S → m s (S) satisfies (u v ∗ + v u ∗) = (u) v ∗ + (v) u ∗ + u (v) ∗ + v (u) ∗ for all u , v ∈ S if and only if is an additive ∗-derivation unless dim S = 4 and char(S) = 2. As an application, we shall characterize such maps in different operator algebras. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pakistan is facing the worst level of energy and economic crisis of its history. The underlying reason of the economic crisis is basically due to the energy crisis. Various approaches have been adopted to tackle the energy crises which the country is facing for over 2 decades. Demand-side management (DSM) is the most potent and cost-effective option to redress the energy crisis, which, unfortunately, has been the most neglected strategy in Pakistan. DSM has the potential to save up to 10.0%-15.0% of primary energy to ensure the country's future energy security. Laws and codes do exist, but ironically, the most vital element of DSM's policy framework and implementation mechanism is missing. Hence, the main objective of this research is to develop a DSM model for Pakistan and analyze the reference and DSM scenarios. Low-emission analysis platform (LEAP) is used to develop Pakistan's DSM model for the study period 2021-2050. The three alternative DSM scenarios developed include energy efficiency (EEF), energy conservation (EC), and load management (LOM), and they are all analyzed. The model results estimate the electricity demand forecast of 1009.8 TWh under the reference scenario in 2050, whereas DSM tends to result in a 26.38% decreased electricity demand compared to the reference scenario. The alternative DSM scenarios also outperform the reference scenario. In 2050, the EC scenario reduces consumption by 178.0 TWh and GHG emissions by 19.20 million metric tons, the EEF scenario reduces consumption by 110.30 TWh and GHG emissions by 10.04 million metric tons, and the LOM scenario suggests reduced consumption by 101.0 TWh and GHG emissions by 6.20 million metric tons. This study concluded that the DSM must be institutionalized in Pakistan by building a robust regulatory framework and execution mechanism at the government and utility levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lead (Pb(II)) ions in water pose a significant threat to both human health and aquatic ecosystems. Various approaches have been employed for wastewater treatment, but adsorption is often preferred due to its effectiveness. However, its practical application is limited by the large quantities of adsorbent required, which consequently increases operational costs. In this study, orange-modified iron-oxide nanoparticles (O-Fe3O4) are synthesized from agro-waste mass (orange peel), and adsorption experiments were conducted for the removal of Pb(II) from aqueous solution. Characterization studies confirm that O-Fe3O4 nanoparticles possess a mesoporous hexagonal nanocrystalline structure, with diameters measuring less than 100 nm. The adsorption process was optimized using a central composite design framework combined with response surface methodology. The analysis of interaction effects demonstrated that they significantly influenced the effectiveness of adsorption removal. The study revealed that an initial concentration of 25 mg/L, a dosage of 0.2 g/L, a contact period of 90 min, and a pH of 5.5 were the optimum conditions to achieve above 95% of Pb(II) removal. The green synthesized O-Fe3O4 nanoparticles, which presented high efficacy, makes it a promising option for implementing the sustainable water purification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neurofilament light chain (NfL) levels in circulation have been established as a sensitive biomarker of neuro-axonal damage across a range of neurodegenerative disorders. Elucidation of the genetic architecture of blood NfL levels could provide new insights into molecular mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative disorders. In this meta-analysis of genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of blood NfL levels from eleven cohorts of European ancestry, we identify two genome-wide significant loci at 16p12 (UMOD) and 17q24 (SLC39A11). We observe association of three loci at 1q43 (FMN2), 12q14, and 12q21 with blood NfL levels in the meta-analysis of African-American ancestry. In the trans-ethnic meta-analysis, we identify three additional genome-wide significant loci at 1p32 (FGGY), 6q14 (TBX18), and 4q21. In the post-GWAS analyses, we observe the association of higher NfL polygenic risk score with increased plasma levels of total-tau, Aβ-40, Aβ-42, and higher incidence of Alzheimer's disease in the Rotterdam Study. Furthermore, Mendelian randomization analysis results suggest that a lower kidney function could cause higher blood NfL levels. This study uncovers multiple genetic loci of blood NfL levels, highlighting the genes related to molecular mechanism of neurodegeneration. An ancestry-specific and trans-ethnic meta-analysis of Genome-wide Association Study of blood NfL levels identified multiple loci related to neurodegeneration and potential causal association between reduced kidney function and higher blood NfL levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Buprenorphine is a medication that is used to treat opioid use disorder by reducing withdrawal symptoms and cravings for opioids. Patients with poor adherence are at higher risk of relapse and overdose. Providers often test adherence through urine testing but are not aware of simulated adherence, where patients may directly add buprenorphine to the urine samples. As of now, there exists no literature on the simulated adherence practices for patients who stayed in the treatment for more than three months This study is a cross-sectional analysis of simulated adherence through urine toxicology results of 3950 patients undergoing buprenorphine/naloxone treatment. Simulated adherence was measured by the ratio of norbuprenorphine and buprenorphine <0.02 in the urine sample. Descriptive statistics as well as multivariate analysis was conducted to examine the relationship between patient information and outcomes. Out of 3950 patients, 411 (10.4%) had a history of one or more simulated adherence. On average, patients with multiple simulated adherences had 48.1% of their tests simulated, while on the contrary, patients with a single occurrence of simulated adherence had 17.6% of their tests simulated. Weekly testing and visit number of over 15 were associated with a higher likelihood of simulated adherence. The study demonstrates that simulated adherence is a recurring phenomenon among buprenorphine/naloxone treatment patients regardless of the duration in the treatment. Utilization of quantitative urine toxicology to identify simulated adherence will enable healthcare providers to formulate a more precise and effective treatment plan tailored to support individual patient needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Let A be a noncommutative prime ring equipped with an involution '∗', and let Q m s (A) be the maximal symmetric ring of quotients of A . Consider the additive maps H and T : A → Q m s (A) . We prove the following under some inevitable torsion restrictions. (a) If m and n are fixed positive integers such that (m + n) T (a 2) = m T (a) a * + n a T (a) for all a ∈ A and (m + n) H (a 2) = m H (a) a * + n a T (a) for all a ∈ A , then H = 0 . (b) If T (a b a) = a T (b) a * for all a , b ∈ A , then T = 0 . Furthermore, we characterize Jordan left τ-centralizers in semiprime rings admitting an anti-automorphism τ. As applications, we find the structure of generalized Jordan ∗-derivations in prime rings and generalize as well as improve all the results of A. Abbasi, C. Abdioglu, S. Ali, M. R. Mozumder (2022). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Let A be a noncommutative prime ring equipped with an involution ' ∗ '. Let Q ms (A) be the maximal symmetric ring of quotients of A and C be the extended centroid of A . The objective of this manuscript is to characterize the additive map T : A → Q ms (A) satisfying any one of the following conditions. (i) T (a 2) = a T (a) + η T (a) a ∗ for all a ∈ A , where η ∈ C and η ∉ { 0 , 1 } . (ii) T (a) (a ∗) n + a n T (a) = 0 for all a ∈ A , where n is a fixed positive integer. We also study some results concerning generalized derivations in prime rings with involution. Moreover, all the study in the manuscript is carried out in the light of the theory of functional identities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MYB transcription factors are encoded by a large family of highly conserved genes from plants to vertebrates. There are three members of the MYB gene family in human, namely, MYB, MYBL1, and MYBL2 that encode MYB/c-MYB, MYBL1/A-MYB, and MYBL2/B-MYB, respectively. MYB was the first member to be identified as a cellular homolog of the v-myb oncogene carried by the avian myeloblastosis virus (AMV) causing leukemia in chickens. Under the normal scenario, MYB is predominantly expressed in hematopoietic tissues, colonic crypts, and neural stem cells and plays a role in maintaining the undifferentiated state of the cells. Over the years, aberrant expression of MYB genes has been reported in several malignancies and recent years have witnessed tremendous progress in understanding of their roles in processes associated with cancer development. Here, we review various MYB alterations reported in cancer along with the roles of MYB family proteins in tumor cell plasticity, therapy resistance, and other hallmarks of cancer. We also discuss studies that provide mechanistic insights into the oncogenic functions of MYB transcription factors to identify potential therapeutic vulnerabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a reinforced concrete dome biogas plant processing buffalo dung was functioned to investigate the seasonal variations in biogas production, biogas composition, and loss of volatile solid and methane potential of digestate slurry. These analyses were undertaken from January to May 2019. The biogas quality was assessed using gas chromatography and biogas production was measured through the G4 VuGas diaphragm gas meter while methane potential was examined on biochemical methane potential (BMP) assays under mesophilic conditions. In January, when the average digester temperature was 26.1 °C, the minimum biogas production was 0.23 ± 0.004m3/kg VSadded with 67% CH4 and 32.9% CO2. In May, the average digester temperature rose to 36.1 °C and the maximum biogas yield obtained increased to 0.384 ± 0.006m3/kg VSadded, comprising 71% CH4 and 28.8% CO2. In the cold season during January, the percentage losses of biogas production were recorded to be 41% because of lower slurry temperature and accumulation of fatty acids. The average slurry temperatures within the digester during the cold season were 21.3 ∘ C at 6 A.M. and 21.9 ∘ C at 3 P.M., increasing to 36 ∘ C at 6 A.M. and 36.2 ∘ C at 3 P.M. for the warm season. In addition, the methane potential of 115NmL/g VSloss was observed from the digestate slurry through BMP test. The concrete dome biogas plant is favorable for its low cost and was shown to produce adequate amount of biogas to fulfill the domestic requirements during both warm and cold months in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Let 풜 be a prime ring equipped with an involution ' * ' of order 2 and let m ≠ n be some fixed positive integers such that 풜 is 2 ⁢ m ⁢ n ⁢ (m + n) ⁢ | m - n | -torsion free. Let 풬 m ⁢ s ⁢ (풜) be the maximal symmetric ring of quotients of 풜 and consider the mappings ℱ and 풢 : 풜 → 풬 m ⁢ s ⁢ (풜) satisfying the relations (m + n) ⁢ ℱ ⁢ (a 2) = 2 ⁢ m ⁢ ℱ ⁢ (a) ⁢ a * + 2 ⁢ n ⁢ a ⁢ ℱ ⁢ (a) and (m + n) ⁢ 풢 ⁢ (a 2) = 2 ⁢ m ⁢ 풢 ⁢ (a) ⁢ a * + 2 ⁢ n ⁢ a ⁢ ℱ ⁢ (a) for all a ∈ 풜 . Using the theory of functional identities and the structure of involutions on matrix algebras, we prove that if ℱ and 풢 are additive, then 풢 = 0 . We also show that, in case ' * ' is any nonidentity anti-automorphism, the same conclusion holds if either ' * ' is not identity on 풵 ⁢ (풜) or 풜 is a PI-ring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work encompasses the study of certain weak maps termed as weak right η-centralizers defined on $ \mathfrak {D} $ D a noncommutative prime ring to $ \mathfrak {Q}_{ml}(\mathfrak {D}) $ Q ml (D). The first section provides an overview of the motivation behind our work. In the second section, our main focus is to establish the characterization of weak right η-centralizers while addressing the theory of functional identities, particularly in the challenging case of low dimensions. Furthermore, in the third section, we derive the characterization of weak Jordan σ-derivations based on the aforementioned characterization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In seismic prone region the seismic risk quantification of the piping systems and its supporting infrastructure is mandatory to control the damage and minimize the loss of life. Some of the petrochemical plants of Pakistan are established during 1960's-1970's and designed for gravity loads only. The primary objectives of the current study are to investigate the as-built condition of RC pipe-rack system, perform a seismic analysis to determine structure response to seismic forces, identify the venerable points and propose the retrofitting strategy accordingly. To this end, five prototype frames are selected, linear static and nonlinear static (pushover) analysis have been performed to evaluate the structure response at global and local levels. Nonlinear two-dimension analysis (N2) method was employed to calculate the target displacement and engineering demand parameters at performance point. Results illustrated that the prototype frames are vulnerable at several location evidence from the global and local levels assessment. These frames require significant intervention or retrofitting to withstand seismic loads. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Proteins once translated are subjected to post-translational modifications (PTMs) that can critically modify their characteristics. Citrullination is a unique type of PTM that is catalysed by peptidylarginine deiminase (PAD) enzymes, which regulate a multitude of physiological functions such as apoptosis, gene expression and immune response by altering the structure and function of cellular proteins. However, emerging data have unravelled compelling evidence to support that PAD-mediated citrullination is not exclusive to cellular proteins; rather citrullination of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins also plays a major contributing role in various physiological/pathological conditions. Here, we discuss putative mechanisms for citrullination-induced alterations in the function of ECM proteins. Further, we put emphasis on influential roles of ECM citrullination in various pathological scenarios to underscore the clinical potential of its manipulation in human diseases. This article is part of the Theo Murphy meeting issue 'The virtues and vices of protein citrullination'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pakistan is facing the deepest energy and economic crisis of its history. In fact, the ongoing economic crisis is more or less due to the energy crisis. In spite of this critical situation, Pakistan began from a meager 70 MW installed capacity at the time of the creation of the country and now has raised that capacity to 40,923 MW with a huge transmission network infrastructure based on 58,679 km transmission lines and a consumer base of 36.5 million. Despite this massive progress, there is a continued power deficit, mounting circular debt, and large losses, which all indicate a depleted picture of the power sector. This paper primarily undertakes the diagnosis of these crises and provides a basic assessment of demand-side management as a potential avenue to overcome energy crises. In this context, a detailed overview of the energy and power sectors of Pakistan, including the outdated T&D system, is undertaken. These diagnoses suggest that poor administration, governance, and inappropriate policies have contributed to these crises. In the meantime, efforts to overcome these crises with expensive capacity additions have also failed to address the energy crisis. However, a careful review of the literature and on-the-ground matters indicates that DSM is the most reliable solution. Sectoral DSM potential is estimated. Implementing the proposed measures will help greatly to overcome these crises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A meteorological drought study is performed using monthly time scale data from three separate locations in southern Sindh, Pakistan. Rainfall and temperature have been used to identify the drought. These data were transformed into drought indices known as the standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index (SPEI) and standardized precipitation index (SPI), which were derived using (the Hargreaves equation). In this study, two indices are compared for three separate meteorological stations Chhor, Mithi, and Badin where most socioeconomic livelihoods depend heavily on water. The SPEI is produced through a simple water balance combining precipitation and temperature, in distinction to the SPI, it just considers precipitation. In conclusion, our study showed that both indices were capable of detecting droughts that fluctuated in time across the reference period of 2004-2021. SPI and SPEI's direction of change was similar, however the impact on the drought condition varied. SPEI discovered more droughts with longer durations and greater with 13 moderate droughts at SPEI-3 for Chhor and Badin Station while Mithi indicated 8 moderate droughts during 2004-2021 and SPI-3 indicated 4 moderates for Chhor, Mithi and Badin indicated 6 moderate drought. Conversely, SPEI discovered more moderatelevel droughts than SPI, however they were of shorter length and less frequent occurrence than the severe to moderate droughts. The findings imply that drought characteristics are significantly influenced by temperature variability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dinoflagellate algae, Symbiodiniaceae, are significant symbiotic partners of corals due to their photosynthetic capacity. The photosynthetic processes of the microalgae consist of linear electron transport, which provides the energetic balance of ATP and NADPH production for CO2 fixation, and alternative electron transport pathways, including cyclic electron flow, which ensures the elevated ATP requirements under stress conditions. Flash-induced chlorophyll fluorescence relaxation is a non-invasive tool to assess the various electron transport pathways. A special case of fluorescence relaxation, the so-called wave phenomenon, was found to be associated with the activity of NAD(P)H dehydrogenase (NDH) in microalgae. We showed previously that the wave phenomenon existed in Symbiodiniaceae under acute heat stress and microaerobic conditions, however, the electron transport processes related to the wave phenomenon remained unknown. In this work, using various inhibitors, we show that (i) the linear electron transport has a crucial role in the formation of the wave, (ii) the inhibition of the donor side of Photosystem II did not induce the wave, whereas inhibition of the Calvin–Benson cycle accelerated it, (iii) the wave phenomenon was related to the operation of type II NDH (NDH-2). We therefore propose that the wave phenomenon is an important marker of the regulation of electron transport in Symbiodiniaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Let * be an involution of a non-commutative prime ring ℜ with the maximal symmetric ring of quotients and the extended centroid of ℜ denoted by Q m s (ℜ) and C , respectively. Consider : ℜ → Q m s (ℜ) be an additive map, if (u 2) − (u) u * − u (u) ∈ C for all u ∈ ℜ , then such a map is termed as a weak Jordan *-derivation. With the smart handling of the FI-theory and facing the challenging case of low dimensions, we prove that every weak Jordan *-derivation of ℜ is X -inner unless dim C ℜ C ≤ 9. Moreover, if * is of the first kind, then every weak Jordan *-derivation of ℜ is X -inner if and only if is Z (ℜ) -linear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extensive desmoplasia and poor vasculature renders pancreatic tumors severely hypoxic, contributing to their aggressiveness and therapy resistance. Here, we identify the HuR/MYB/HIF1α axis as a critical regulator of the metabolic plasticity and hypoxic survival of pancreatic cancer cells. HuR undergoes nuclear‐to‐cytoplasmic translocation under hypoxia and stabilizes MYB transcripts, while MYB transcriptionally upregulates HIF1α. Upon MYB silencing, pancreatic cancer cells fail to survive and adapt metabolically under hypoxia, despite forced overexpression of HIF1α. MYB induces the transcription of several HIF1α‐regulated glycolytic genes by directly binding to their promoters, thus enhancing the recruitment of HIF1α to hypoxia‐responsive elements through its interaction with p300‐dependent histone acetylation. MYB‐depleted pancreatic cancer cells exhibit a dramatic reduction in tumorigenic ability, glucose‐uptake and metabolism in orthotopic mouse model, even after HIF1α restoration. Together, our findings reveal an essential role of MYB in metabolic reprogramming that supports pancreatic cancer cell survival under hypoxia. Synopsis: Tumor cells face hypoxic stress as they evolve, which modulates their behavior and treatment response. MYB supports the hypoxic survival of pancreatic cancer cells by controlling the transcriptional activity of HIF‐1α and metabolic plasticity. HuR undergoes nuclear‐to‐cytoplasmic translocation under hypoxia and stabilizes MYB transcripts.MYB upregulates HIF1α transcription, facilitates its recruitment to promoters, and modulates its transcriptional activity.HIF1α accumulation is not sufficient to support hypoxic survival and metabolic reprogramming of pancreatic cancer cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Consider ℜ as a prime ring which is non-commutative in structure with a suitable characteristic. Here, 풵 ⁢ (ℜ) is the center of ℜ and 풬 is the Utumi ring of quotients where 풞 is the extended centroid of ℜ . Suppose 풫 to be a Lie ideal of ℜ which is non-central. Let 풦 be a generalized derivation of ℜ related with derivation μ of ℜ . If 풦 satisfies certain typical algebraic identities, then we prove that 풦 is either the identity map or the zero map or the scalar map and further information is also drawn on the associated scalar unless ℜ embeds in M 2 ⁢ (풞) , a matrix ring of order 2 × 2 over 풞 . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite being a limited and scarce resource, the necessity and exploitation of fossil fuels are unstoppable in serving human demands. In order to supply energy demand without causing environmental damage, it is crucial to utilize a variety of renewable feedstock resources. Biochar, made up mostly of carbon, oxygen, and hydrogen, is the product of the thermochemical processes of pyrolysis, hydrothermal carbonization, torrefaction, and hydrothermal liquefaction. Biochar, once activated, has the potential to act as a catalyst in a variety of energy generation processes, including transesterification and fermentation. Transesterification is the process that is used to produce biodiesel from a variety of oils, both edible and non-edible, as well as animal fats in the presence of either a homogeneous or a heterogeneous catalyst. When selecting a catalyst, the amount of free fatty acid (FFA) content in the oil is considered. Homogeneous catalysts are superior to heterogeneous catalysts because they are unaffected by the concentration of free fatty acids in the oil. Homogeneous catalysts are extremely hazardous, as they are poisonous, combustible, and corrosive. In addition, the production of soaps as a byproduct and a large volume of wastewater from the use of homogeneous catalysts necessitates additional pretreatment procedures and costs for adequate disposal. This article examines the biochar-based fuel-generation catalyst in detail. At first, a wide variety of thermochemical methods were provided for manufacturing biochar and its production. Biochar's chemical nature was analyzed, and the case for using it as a catalyst in the production of biofuels was also scrutinized. An explanation of how the biochar catalyst can improve fuel synthesis is provided for readers. Biodiesel's transesterification and esterification processes, biomass hydrolysis, and biohydrogen generation with the help of a biochar catalyst are all reviewed in detail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Consider a ring with an (anti)-automorphism ∇ of finite order. The fundamental aim of this manuscript is to introduce the notions of ∇-(semi)prime ideal and ∇-(semi)prime ring as a generalization of the notions of (semi)prime ideal, ∗ -(semi)prime ideal, (semi)prime ring and ∗ -(semi)prime ring. Furthermore, we will investigate their basic properties and study the commutative property of ∇-prime rings which satisfy certain central differential identities on ∇-ideals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pakistan has been facing energy crises for more than a decade as a result of its reliance on imported fossil fuels, circular debt, political instability, and absurd energy policies. However, the country has abundant renewable energy resources which, if harnessed, may help to effectively cope with ever-increasing energy demand. This review study investigates the country's economic and energy situations, energy crises, and energy sector performance. A critical analysis of studies conducted on Pakistan's energy planning since its independence in 1947 is, and policies announced to date are assessed. This review reveals that the economic situation of the country has remained severely stressed, and energy sector performance has been compromised over the years for various underlying reasons. The energy policy narrative in the early decades of the post-independence period focused on water resource management, whereas energy concerns were only realized in the late 1960s as demand grew. The first-ever energy and power planning study in Pakistan was conducted in 1967, and since then, various studies have been conducted to support the medium-term development plans of the government. These planning studies inspired further development, and in 1994, the first-ever electricity-focused power policy was announced by the government in response to industrial growth and subsequent electricity demand. However, this and subsequent policies were fossil-fuel-centric until 2006, when the government announced the first-ever renewable energy policy. This 2006 policy focused on increasing renewable energy penetration in the overall energy mix by setting specific targets. However, these targets have rarely been accomplished as a result of a lack of an effective planning paradigm, as most of studies have been conducted without sound demand forecasting and without considering renewable energy's potential to meet growing demand. As such, planning efforts based on proven methodologies/modeling tools and the undertaking of demand forecasts and renewable energy assessments are inevitable for countries such as Pakistan. Therefore, we suggest that sectoral energy demand forecasting, estimation of renewable energy potential with end use, and modeling of optimal penetration of renewable energy using energy modeling tools will be helpful to develop sustainable energy policies in Pakistan to eradicate the energy crisis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a complete lack of highly sensitive and specific biomarkers for early pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) diagnosis, limiting multi-modal therapeutic options. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is an excellent resource for biomarker discovery because of its high copy number and increased mutational frequency in cancer cells. We examined if mtDNA mutations can be detected in circulating extracellular vesicles (EVs) of PDAC patients and used for discerning between cancer and non-cancer subjects. A greater yield of circulating EVs (~ 1.4 fold; p = 0.002) was obtained in PDAC patients (n = 20) than non-cancer (NC) individuals (n = 10). PDAC-EVs contained a higher quantity of total DNA (~ 5.5 folds; p = 0.0001) than NC-EVs and had greater enrichment of mtDNA (~ 14.02-fold; p = 0.0001). PDAC-EVs also had higher levels of cardiolipin (a mitochondrial inner-membrane phospholipid), suggestive of their mitochondrial origin. All mtDNA mutations in PDAC-EVs were unique and frequency was remarkably higher. Most mtDNA mutations (41.5%) in PDAC-EVs were in the respiratory complex-I (RCI) (ND1-ND6), followed by the RCIII gene (CYTB; 11.2%). Among the non-coding genes, D-Loop and RNR2 exhibited the most mutations (15.2% each). Altogether, our study establishes, for the first time, that mtDNA mutations can be detected in circulating EVs and potentially serve as a tool for reliable PDAC diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: What are the main findings? Assessment of three cookstove technologies using the AHP. Technological, social, economic, and environmental criteria were evaluated. What is the implication of the main finding? The technologies were assessed using four main criteria corresponding to 12 sub-criteria. ECS technology is the most advantageous technology, followed by BCS and TCS. Pakistan is not merely confronting the energy crisis but also dealing with the scarcity of economical technologies for the utilization of energy resources. From the basic resources, renewable energy is one of the considerable resources. Due to environmental issues related to greenhouse gases (GHGs) and air pollution in Pakistan, the other energy resources are constricted. In rural areas, biomass resources are a fundamental need for domestic purposes. The prominent reason for environmental degradation and deforestation is due to ineffective use of such resources. Biomass resources for heating and cooking purposes are abundantly available in rural areas of Pakistan. In this context, this study helps us select the applicable cookstove technologies for the Sindh province for the proper utilization of biomass resources. The AHP (analytical hierarchy process) was used as the central methodology for the cookstove ranking. Concerning its improvement, four main criteria corresponding to 12 sub-criteria were considered for the selection of three cookstove technologies, i.e., traditional cookstoves (TCS), efficient cookstoves (ECS), and biogas cookstoves (BCS). The final decision of the AHP framework exposed the ECS technology as the advantageous technology, followed by the BCS and TCS, respectively. To analyze the results, a sensitivity analysis of the major results has also been carried out, and under the final ranking matrix, the ECS alternative got the highest weightage, nearly 36.56%, based on the developed model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Pakistan, around 58% of current electricity is generated from fossil fuels and only 2.4% is generated using renewable energy (RE) resources even though country is blessed with enormous RE potential. Among other RE resources, Pakistan's geographical location offers high solar energy potential, which implies that actual potential assessment should be undertaken. This study, as such, undertakes a comprehensive assessment of solar energy potential and prospects of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems for both off‐grid and grid‐connected systems. This study also estimates the future available capacity of rooftop and rural off‐grid solar PV capacity. Three different types of solar PV modules of the same size, that is, thin‐film, premium, and standard were modeled to compare energy outputs. NREL's System Advisor Model (SAM) is used to estimate the geographical and technical potential of solar PV considering updated data and geographical information. SAM results suggest that an average of 4.5 kWh/kWp/day is obtained from an installed capacity of 1 KWp. The logistic modeling equations are further used to forecast the solar PV penetration over a period until 2090. The research investigation concludes that 2.8 × 106 GWh of electricity can be generated annually in Pakistan. The estimated results prove that solar PV has the potential to meet the present as well as future energy needs of Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Aberrant activation of androgen receptor signalling following castration therapy is a common clinical observation in prostate cancer (PCa). Earlier, we demonstrated the role of MYB overexpression in androgen-depletion resistance and PCa aggressiveness. Here, we investigated MYB-androgen receptor (AR) crosstalk and its functional significance.Methods: Interaction and co-localization of MYB and AR were examined by co-immunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence analyses, respectively. Protein levels were measured by immunoblot analysis and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The role of MYB in ligand-independent AR transcriptional activity and combinatorial gene regulation was studied by promoter-reporter and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays. The functional significance of MYB in castration resistance was determined using an orthotopic mouse model.Results: MYB and AR interact and co-localize in the PCa cells. MYB-overexpressing PCa cells retain AR in the nucleus even when cultured under androgen-deprived conditions. AR transcriptional activity is also sustained in MYB-overexpressing cells in the absence of androgens. MYB binds and promotes AR occupancy to the KLK3 promoter. MYB-overexpressing PCa cells exhibit greater tumorigenicity when implanted orthotopically and quickly regain growth following castration leading to shorter mice survival, compared to those carrying low-MYB-expressing prostate tumours.Conclusions: Our findings reveal a novel MYB-AR crosstalk in PCa and establish its role in castration resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flash-induced chlorophyll fluorescence relaxation is a powerful tool to monitor the reoxidation reactions of the reduced primary quinone acceptor, QA− by QB and the plastoquinone (PQ) pool, as well as the charge recombination reactions between the donor and acceptor side components of Photosystem II (PSII). Under certain conditions, when the PQ pool is highly reduced (e.g. in microaerobic conditions), a wave phenomenon appears in the fluorescence relaxation kinetics, which reflects the transient reoxidation and re-reduction of QA− by various electron transfer processes, which in cyanobacteria is mediated by NAD(P)H dehydrogenase (NDH-1). The wave phenomenon was also observed and assigned to the operation of type 2 NAD(P)H dehydrogenase (NDH-2) in the green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii under hydrogen-producing conditions, which required a long incubation of algae under sulphur deprivation (Krishna et al. J Exp Bot 70 (21):6321–6336, 2019). However, the conditions that induce the wave remained largely uncharacterized so far in microalgae. In this work, we investigated the wave phenomenon in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii under conditions that lead to a decrease of PSII activity by applying hydroxylamine treatment, which impacts the donor side of PSII in combination with a strongly reducing environment of the PQ pool (microaerobic conditions). A similar wave phenomenon could be induced by photoinhibitory conditions (illumination with strong light in the presence of the protein synthesis inhibitor lincomycin). These results indicate that the fluorescence wave phenomenon is activated in green algae when the PSII activity decreases relative to Photosystem I (PS I) activity and the PQ pool is strongly reduced. Therefore, the fluorescence wave could be used as a sensitive indicator of altered intersystem electron transfer processes, e.g. under stress conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nicotine is an addictive ingredient of tobacco products and other noncigarette substitutes, including those being used for smoking cessation to relieve withdrawal symptoms. Earlier research, however, has associated nicotine with the risk and poorer outcome of several diseases, including cancer. Macrophages are an important component of the innate immune system and can have both pro‐and anti‐inflammatory functions depending upon their polarization state. Here, we investigated the effect of nicotine on macrophage polarization, growth, and invasion to understand its role in human physiology. We observed that nicotine induced M2 polarization of RAW264.7 and THP‐1‐derived macrophages in a dose‐dependent manner. Cytokine profiling suggested a mixed M2a/d phenotype of nicotine‐polarized macrophages associated with tissue repair and pro‐angiogenic functions. Moreover, nicotine treatment also enhanced the growth, motility, and invasion of macrophages. Mechanistic studies revealed increased phosphorylation of STAT3 in nicotine‐treated macrophages that was mediated through Src activation. Importantly, pretreatment of macrophages with either Src or STAT3 inhibitor abrogated nicotine‐induced macrophage polarization, growth, and motility, suggesting a functional role of the Src‐STAT3 signaling axis. Together, our findings reveal a novel role of nicotine in immunosuppression via causing M2 polarization of macrophages that could be implicated in the pathogenesis of various diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Let R be an associative ring. A multiplicative semi-derivation d is a map on R satisfying d ⁢ (x ⁢ y) = d ⁢ (x) ⁢ g ⁢ (y) + x ⁢ d ⁢ (y) = d ⁢ (x) ⁢ y + g ⁢ (x) ⁢ d ⁢ (y) and d ⁢ (g ⁢ (x)) = g ⁢ (d ⁢ (x)) {d(xy)=d(x)g(y)+xd(y)=d(x)y+g(x)d(y)\quad\text{and}\quad d(g(x))=g(d(x))} for all x , y ∈ R {x,y\in R} , where g is any map on R. In this paper, we have obtained some conditions on R, which make d additive. Finally, we have also shown that every multiplicative semi-derivation on M n ⁢ (ℂ) {M_{n}(\mathbb{C})} , the algebra of all n × n {n\times n} matrices over the field ℂ {\mathbb{C}} of complex numbers, is an additive derivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nephrotoxicity is an emerging health issue in many countries due to exogenous or endogenous toxicants. Many drugs are responsible for causing renal damage including antibiotics such as aminoglycoside, cisplatin, etc. Meanwhile some herbs are traditionally used to treat kidney disorders due to their nephroprotective properties. One of them is Tukhme-soya (Seed of Anethum sowa) from family Umbelliferae. This study aims to evaluate the Tukhm-e-soya in gentamicin induced nephrotoxic kidney models in Albino rats. Methods: The rats were divided in to eight groups and each group was comprised of six rats. Group I- VIII were control, toxic, hydro-alcoholic, ethanolic, petroleum ether, chloroform, acetone, aqueous groups respectively. 1% carboxy methyl cellulose was used as control and gentamicin was used as toxicant. Duration of the study was 8 days. Serum creatinine (S.Cr), Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN), histopathological studies of kidneys, and lipid peroxidation (LPO), were evaluated. Results were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance followed by Dunnett’s post hoc test. Results: BUN, S.Cr and LPO levels were significantly increased in toxicant group when compared with control. Groups III - VIII showed significantly lower values close to control group in these parameters. Study revealed that it has a potent antioxidant activity which may be responsible for its nephroprotective actions. Conclusion: Therefore, it is concluded that all the extracts and fractions of Tukhme soya were effective in nephroprotection but acetone fraction, hydroalcoholic and chloroform fractions were more effective than other groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Land use and land cover modifications have been undergoing at a hasty pace across the world. The dynamics of growth and change in land use in Peshawar City during the period 1991–2014 was studied utilizing GIS and remote sensing technologies. Using Landsat TM imageries, this study examined land use alterations in urban and peri-urban Peshawar and their impact on ground water. Beside this, the study used temporal and spatial dataset of water table for the year 1991 and 2014 that were gathered from Water and Works Department Peshawar, Pakistan. This study also used Cellular Automata–Markov (CA–Markov model) to predict the future change in built up area up to 2044 on the basis of past trend (1991–2014) and its impact on the encroachment or loss of agricultural land as well as the level of ground water. The past trend of fluctuation of groundwater (in feet) with the expansion in size of built-uses was also used to predict future trend in ground water depletion. The most severe impact in terms of groundwater depletion will take place in the southern parts of the city. The sharp decrease of groundwater table was observed in the central parts of the city compared to the peripheries. If this declining trend of groundwater level continues that might put an amplified stress on underground aquifers and may trigger to land subsidence or other environmental hazards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sugarcane (Saccharum spontaneum L.), the major sugar and biofuel feedstock crop, is cultivated mainly by vegetative propagation worldwide due to the infertility of female reproductive organs resulting in the reduction of quality and output of sugar. Deciphering the gene expression profile during ovule development will improve our understanding of the complications underlying sexual reproduction in sugarcane. Optimal reference genes are essential for elucidating the expression pattern of a given gene by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). Method: In this study, based on transcriptome data obtained from sugarcane ovule, eighteen candidate reference genes were identified, cloned, and their expression levels were evaluated across five developmental stages ovule (AC, MMC, Meiosis, Mitosis, and Mature). Results: Our results indicated that FAB2 and MOR1 were the most stably expressed genes during sugarcane female gametophyte development. Moreover, two genes, cell cycle-related genes REC8 and CDK, were selected, and their feasibility was validated. This study provides important insights into the female gametophyte development of sugarcane and reports novel reference genes for gene expression research on sugarcane sexual reproduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The large yellow croaker (Larimichthys crocea) is an important mariculture fish in China. Farmed large yellow croaker undergo periods of fasting to adapt to the environment or to improve meat quality. To better understand the physiological responses of their muscle tissues to fasting stresses, we analyzed the transcriptomes and proteomes of both normally-fed and fasting fish groups and identified 7 578 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and 297 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) among them. Gene ontology and KEGG analysis showed that the enriched biological pathways were mainly involved in various synthetic and catabolic pathways, especially the protein metabolism. Based on the omics data, nine DEGs related to muscle composition (CAN3, MYL3, and TNNC2), growth (MSTN and MYF5), autophagy (TSC2 and ULK1), and the ubiquitin proteasome pathway (PRS6B and UCHL3) were examined using qPCR. In response to fasting stress, MYL3 and TNNC2 were significantly downregulated, while genes associated with autophagy and the ubiquitin proteasome pathway were significantly upregulated. In response to fasting stress, MYL3, TNNC2, and MYF5 positively correlated with muscle growth were significantly downregulated, while inhibiting growth MSTN and genes associated with autophagy and the ubiquitin proteasome pathways were significantly upregulated. These results clarify the effects of fasting on metabolic changes in their muscle components and growth at the molecular level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Let R be an associative ring. A *- semimultiplier is an additive map F : R = R such that F(xy) = F(x)g(y8) = g(x*)F(y) where g is some additive map and F(g(x)) = g(F(x)) for all x 2 R . We make extensive use of functional identities defined in prime ring R of the forms xE1(y) + yE2(x) = 0 or xE1(y) + yE2(x) 2 Z(R) = C where E1, E2 are any arbitrary functions on the prime ring R and Z(R), C are the center and the extended centroid of R respectively. We have proved that in a prime ring R under some additional conditions, a 8 - semimultiplier F : R = R is a map given by F(x) = x + (x), where * 2 C and : R = C. We have also shown that a prime ring admitting the *-semimultiplier satisfies S4, the standard identity of degree 4 under some suitable conditions. Further, some other important results are also incorporated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Late diagnosis, unreliable prognostic assessment, and poorly-guided therapeutic planning result in dismal survival of ovarian cancer (OC) patients. Therefore, identifying novel functional biomarker(s) is highly desired for improved clinical management. MYB is an oncogenic transcription factor with emerging functional significance in OC. Here we examined its clinicopathologic significance by immunohistochemistry and TCGA/GTex data analyses. Aberrant MYB expression was detected in 94% of OC cases (n = 373), but not in the normal ovarian tissues (n = 23). MYB was overexpressed in all major epithelial OC histological subtypes exhibiting the highest incidence (~ 97%) and overall expression in serous and mucinous carcinomas. MYB expression correlated positively with tumor grades and stages. Moreover, MYB exhibited race-specific prognostic association. Moderate-to-high MYB levels were significantly associated with both poor overall- (p = 0.02) and progression-free (p = 0.02) survival in African American (AA), but not in the Caucasian American (CA) patients. Consistent with immunohistochemistry data, we observed significantly higher MYB transcripts in OC cases (n = 426) than normal ovary (n = 88). MYB transcripts were significantly higher in all epithelial OC subtypes, compared to normal, and its greater levels predicted poor survival in AA OC, but not CA OC, patients. Thus, MYB appears to be a useful clinical biomarker for prognostication, especially in AA patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an efficient Low Voltage Ride Through (LVRT) control scheme for a 10.0MW grid-tied Permanent Magnet Synchronous Generator (PMSG)-based wind farm. The proposed control strategy plans to enhance the power quality and amount of injected power to satisfy the grid code requirements. The proposed approach utilizes a static Shunt Var Compensator (SVC) to enhance the LVRT capability and to improve power quality. It has been observed from the outcomes of the study that the proposed SVC controller ensures safe and reliable operation of the considered PMSG-based power system. The proposed system not only improves power quality but also it provides voltage stability of the Wind Energy Conversion System (WECS) under abnormal/fault conditions. The results show the superiority of the proposed control strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To determine the management of open diaphyseal fracture of tibia with plaster of Paris (pop) cast vs external fixator in orthopedic ward PUMHSW Hospital Nawabshah. Study Design: Cross-Sectional Comparative study. Setting: Orthopedic Department, Peoples University of Medical And Health Science Shaheed Benazirabad. Period: 18 months from January 2017 to June 2018. Material & Methods: The data was analyzed in SPSS Version 22.0. Results: Out of 50 patients with tibial diaphyseal fractures, there were 34 males compared to females 16 (2.1:1) (68% vs 32%) with an average age of 41 years. Patients with external fixator applied yielded decreased rates of infection; shorter duration of hospital stay and early union compared to patients with plaster of Paris (pop) cast application. However, the difference reached statistical significant value. Conclusion: Open Tibial diaphyseal fractures should be managed with external fixation that yields better results. A plaster cast is the initial treatment of modality in patients with open tibial diaphyseal fractures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To compare the external fixator and unreamed interlocking nail in treating Gustilo type II, type IIIA, and type IIIB tibial diaphyseal fractures regarding complications. Study Design: Cross-Sectional and Comparative Study. Setting: Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology (DOST) Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences Jamshoro/Hyderabad. Period: Two years February 2016 to January 2018. Material & Methods: 40 cases of open tibia fractures in Patients of Gustilo type II, type IIIA, and type IIIB tibial diaphyseal fractures were included. The data were analyzed using the statistical program SPSS version 16.0. Results: A total of 23 cases were treated by external fixator and 22 cases were treated by unreamed solid interlocking nail. A total of 14 cases, that is, 31% showed delayed union. Type II injury 3/15 = 20%; Type IIIA injury 6/22 = 27.3%; Type IIIB injury it is -5/8 = 12.5%. For cases treated with unreamed nail, it was 22.7%; external fixator was 39.1% among 45 cases, 05 cases showed nonunion. For cases treated with unreamed nail, it was 13.6%; external fixation was 8.7%. The overall rate of eep infection is 11.1%. The rate in interlocking nail was 13.6%, and external fixation was 8.7%. Reoperation in the form of dynamization and bone graft application after 20 weeks in unreamed nail was 36.4%, whereas in external fixation the rate was high, almost 48%. The average time of union with unreamed interlocking was about 25.4 weeks, wherein external fixation it was 28.6 weeks. Conclusion: External fixators are a good and reliable method of stabilization of Gustilo type II, type IIIA, and type IIIB tibial diaphyseal fractures, unreamed interlocking intramedullary nail yields better results in treating Gustilo type II and type IIIA tibial shaft fractures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Walisongo: Jurnal Penelitian Sosial Keagamaan is the property of State Islamic University, Institute for Research & Community Services and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Homegrown terrorist organizations such as Kumpulan Militant Malaysia (KMM), Jemaah Islamiyyah (JI), Darul Islam Sabah (DIS), Al Qaeda and Islamic State (IS) or DAESH have created their own “domestic” criminal capabilities. The series of bombings and terrorist attacks which the terrorists have been known to carry out in this region cannot be done without a sturdy source of funding. Either small or big scale terror activities depends on funding, because terrorist operators and suicide bombers also need money for a living. Proactive vigilance and law enforcement activities aimed at stopping funding for terrorist organizations have halted their movements. As a result, they have lately been forming partnership with organized and underground crime groups in order to continue to survive. This study has identified the activities of at least four main terror-crime groups operating in Malaysia known as: human trafficking, piracy, kidnaping for ransom (KFR), and smuggling. Drawing on these accounts, it is discussed in this article that the level of a terrorist group’s organizational capability is the most vital factor of the crimes they were engaged in. Significant data from the series of interview and literature review were used to produce output which would be able to help the authorities in Malaysia to have a wider understanding of the crime-terror nexus in Malaysia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low-pressure glow discharges in He, Ne, or Ar gases containing small amounts of O2 can produce considerable dissociation of O2 molecules. High-lying metastable states in these noble gases play a predominant role in this process. Due to the difference in energies of metastable states of the noble gas atoms, there is a significant variation in the product states of O atoms created as a result of dissociation. Apparently, for He and Ne, superexcited O2 molecules are formed through collisions with high-lying metastable states of the noble gases. The superexcited O2 molecule could either autoionize to form an O2+ ion that subsequently captures an electron and dissociates or it could directly dissociate through some curve-crossing interactions yielding at least one atom in highly excited state. However, in the case of Ar, the formation of superexcited O2 may be possible through a prior creation of Ar2+ ion. We report some interesting observations on spectral emissions from O atoms in the three gas mixtures covering transition from 5d, 4d 3,5D, and 5s 3,5S, to 3p 3,5P levels and 4p and 3p 3,5P to 3s 3,5S levels. The emission from the b 4Σg--a 4Πu system of O2+ ions is also reported. In general, populations of the above-stated O and O2+ levels are highest in the case of He–O2 mixture and lowest for the Ar–O2 mixture. However, the Ne–O2 mixture appears to strongly populate the 4p 5P levels, while the Ar–O2 mixture strongly populates the 3p 3P levels. The He–O2 mixture appears to be more efficient among the three gas mixtures considered in dissociating the O2 molecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have recently reported a significant enhancement in the atomization of O2 in an Ar–O2 glow discharge. During our investigations of energy transfer between Ar and O2, we have observed a strong continuum emission from Ar2+ in the 350–600 nm spectral region in a pure Ar discharge. We believe that capture of a free electron by the Ar2+ ion leading to the formation of excited dimer Ar2* is responsible for this continuum. The dimer subsequently dissociates into Ar atoms. We further observe that in the presence of small amount of O2, resonant charge-exchanging collisions yield O2+ that subsequently capture free electrons and dissociate yielding up to a 30-fold increase in atomic O compared with the O-atom yield in pure O2 discharge. In addition, the Ar line at 763.5 nm appears to be fed by the dissociating Ar2*. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Research was aimed to explore the relationship between abnormal eating attitudes and body image dissatisfaction among university students. Design: Cross sectional Place and Duration of the study: Rawalpindi-Islamabad from January to August, 2018. Subjects and Methods: 249 university students (female = 136 & Males = 113) were taken from Public, Private and Semi-Government Universities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Body Shape Questionnaire-34 was used to assess the body image dissatisfaction while Disordered Eating Attitude Scale was used to assess abnormal eating attitudes. Results and Conclusion: It was found that the body image dissatisfaction significantly predicts abnormal eating attitudes among university students, and contributes 33%of the variance in abnormal eating attitudes. It was found that the body image dissatisfaction significantly predicts abnormal eating attitudes among university students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present paper, we investigate the commutativity of 3-prime near-rings satisfying certain conditions involving left generalized multiplicative derivations on semigroup ideals. Moreover, examples have been provided to justify the necessity of 3-primeness condition in the hypotheses of various results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Erdkunde is the property of Universitaet Bonn, Geographisches Institut and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)