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Soil particle size fractions play a critical role in determining soil health attributes, including soil aeration, water infiltration and retention capacity, nutrients, and organic matter dynamics. Traditional soil mapping methods rely predominantly on ground-based surveys and laboratory analysis which are reported to be timeconsuming and expensive. To address these challenges, there has been a global shift towards digital soil mapping (DSM) techniques that utilize remote sensing data. This review, conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guideline, aims to provide a comprehensive synthesis of the current state of soil texture prediction using remote sensing data. In particular, the review extract and synthesizes the satellite images used, identify the derived environmental covariates and their relative importance, and assesses the prediction models/algorithms used in the prediction of soil texture. Synthesis and analysis of 70 articles show that clay content is the most predicted of the three soil particle fractions accounting for 37% of the reviewed studies predominantly from topsoil layer (74.29%). Sentinel 2 and Landsat 8 are reported as the most frequently used satellite images. Among the covariates derived from these images, NDVI (80.4%) and SAVI (60.8%) are by far the most derived band ratios (indices). Red (37.3%), NIR (35.3%), Green (33.3%), Blue (33.3%), and SW2 (29.4%) bands were the five most incorporated as covariates for soil texture prediction amongst individual satellite bands. Regarding the DSM algorithms, Random Forest (RF) appeared in most reviewed articles followed by Support Vector Machines (SVM), and Quantile Regression Forest (QRF). The comparative model performance analysis showed that RF and Artificial neural network (ANN) had a good trade-off across validation metrics indicating their best performance in the prediction of both clay, sand, and silt. The RF performance showed a decreasing trend with increasing depth interval for clay and sand prediction and inconsistent for silt prediction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Iraqi Journal of Agricultural Sciences is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) 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.)

This study explores the multidimensional security and privacy issues in mobile banking within Qatar through semistructured interviews with seven key industry participants, including representatives from the Qatari Central Bank, cybersecurity specialists, bankers, a mobile banking technology provider, and an academic expert in digital security. Using thematic analysis based on Braun and Clarke's framework, the study identifies key themes: regulatory challenges, technological vulnerabilities, user behavior and education, and future trends in mobile banking security. The findings reveal the necessity for continuous enhancement of regulatory frameworks, adoption of advanced technological solutions, comprehensive user education programs, and a balanced approach to security and user experience. The study provides valuable insights into the current landscape and future directions for mobile banking security in Qatar, highlighting the importance of a proactive, collaborative approach to safeguarding against cyber threats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Soil Sciences & Agricultural Engineering is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) 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.)

The fabrication of a novel bis(tert‐butylaminomethyl)pyridine pincer ligand‐based ionophore in a carbon paste electrode (CPE) matrix for Al3+ ions was investigated. With a Nernstian slope of 20.05±0.27 mV decade−1 and a low detection limit of 1.0×10−7 mol L−1, the electrode demonstrated an excellent response for the Al3+ ion over a broad concentration range from 1.0×10−7 to 1.0×10−1 mol L−1. The formula for the graphite paste that produced the greatest results was 69.44 % graphite, 27.78 % tricresyl phosphate (TCP) binder, and 2.78 % ionophore. This pincer ligand‐based electrode worked well with aqueous Al3+ solutions that had pH values between 2.5 and 5.5. It may be used for at least 4 months without any detectable potentials digression and has a reasonably quick response time (5 s). The suggested graphitic paste electrode demonstrated strong Al3+ ion selectivity over a broad range of other cations. The isothermal coefficient of the electrode, which was determined to be 0.2884×10−3 V °C−1, was calculated by looking at the impact of test solution temperature on electrode potentials. The suggested electrode was also applied to non‐aqueous media with an aqueous‐non‐aqueous volume ratio of up to 75 : 25. The data acquired using this CPE as an indicator electrode for the potentiometric measurement of Al3+ ions in several actual samples was equivalent to that attained using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Zagazig Journal of Agricultural Research is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) 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.)

Optimization of dry deposition velocity calculation has been of great interest. Every time, determining the value of the concentration boundary layer (CBL) thickness led to a waste of numerical calculation time, which appears as a huge time in large-scale climate models. The goal of this study is to optimize the numerical calculation time in the three-layer deposition model for smooth surfaces through the development of a MATLAB code that can parameterize the appropriate concentration boundary layer height (y+cbl) and internal integral calculation intervals for each particle diameter Dp (0.01–100 µm) and friction velocity u* (0.01–100 m/s). The particle concentration, as a solution to the particle flux equation, is obtained and modeled numerically by performing the left Riemann sum using MATLAB software. On the other hand, the number of subdivisions N of the Riemann sum was also parameterized for each Dp and u * in order to lessen the numerical calculation time. From a numerical point of view, the new parameterizations were tested by several computers; about 78% on the average of the computation time was saved when compared with the original algorithm. In other words, on average, about 1.2 s/calculation was gained, which is valuable in climate models simulations when millions of dry deposition calculations are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mononuclear chelates of Cr(III), Mn(II), Fe(III), Ni(II), Cu(II), Zn(II) and Cd(II) resulted from new tridentate Schiff base ligand, 4‐((1‐(5‐acetyl‐2,4‐dihydroxyphenyl)ethylidene)amino)‐1,5‐dimethyl‐2‐phenyl‐1H‐pyrazol‐3(2H)‐one, were synthesized. Metal to ligand ratio was found to be1 : 1, which was revealed via elemental analysis and characterized via various spectroscopic tools. IR has point out that the coordination of the ligand towards the metal ions was carried out via NOO donor atoms. UV‐Vis, 1H NMR spectral data, molar conductivity measurements, BET surface area, melting points and theoretically through density function theory were used such as characterizing techniques in supporting further interpretation of the complexes structures. The complexes were octahedral except Cu(II) and Ni(II) complexes were tetrahedral as suggested from the magnetic moment measurement. The complexes were found to have surface area, pore volume and particle radius of 23–176 m2 g−1, 0.02‐0.33 cc/g and 8.71‐4.32 nm, respectively, as pointed out from BET measurement. Schiff base ligand and metal complexes were tested in vitro to estimate their antimicrobial activity opposed to Gram‐negative and Gram‐positive bacterial and fungal organisms. MOE 2008 was used headed for screen potential drugs with molecular docking by the protein sites of new coronavirus and the study was constructed to molecular docking without validation through MD simulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A potentiometric sensor modified with a nanocomposite of montmorillonite sheets decorated with polyaniline nanofibers (MT-PANI-NFs) as an efficient electroactive material and tricresyl phosphate (TCP) as a solvent mediator has been developed for the estimation of clomipramine HCl (CLP.HCl). The optimum potentiometric performance of the sensor was achieved by mixing of MT-PANI-NFs: TCP: graphene with a ratio of 2.69: 30.11: 67.20 (% wt/wt). The sensor exhibited a Nernstian slope of 59.0±0.1 mV decade-1 over the concentration range of 1.0×10-5-1.0×10-2 mol L-1 with a theoretically calculated detection limit of 5.0×10-6 mol L-1. The sensor performance was scrutinized in terms of several factors including thermal stability, pH effect, response time and selectivity. As, it displayed a high thermal stability at various temperature degrees (10-60 °C) with pH independency in the range of 3.5-8.5. Additionally, the developed sensor exhibited a very rapid performance for CLP.HCl detection with a fast response time of 4 s and reflecting a superior selectivity towards CLP.HCl over the other interfering species. SEM (scanning electron microscope) was used as a characteristic tool for the investigation of the proposed graphene sensor surface. Furthermore, the graphene sensor has been efficiently used for CLP.HCl estimation in its pharmaceutical formulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The tridentate Schiff base ligand was prepared via condensation of 4,6-diacetylresorcinol and 1,8-naphthalenediamine in 1:1 molar ratio using conventional method. Additionally, a new series of transition metal complexes of Cr(III), Mn(II), Fe(III), Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), Zn(II) and Cd(II) metal ions were prepared and fully characterized by elemental analysis, FT-IR, 1H NMR, UV–vis, conductivity and magnetic susceptibility measurements and theoretically through density function theory (DFT). Spectral studies suggested that, the Schiff base coordinated to the metal ions through the azomethine N, N-amine and phenolic oxygen atoms. From the elemental, magnetic susceptibility and spectroscopic data, the complexes were suggested to have octahedral geometry. The Schiff base and its metal complexes were screened for their in vitro antimicrobial activities and showed that Cd(II), Cu(II) and Cr(III) complexes have high activity against Escherichia coli, while Ni(II) and Cd(II) complexes have the highest activity against Bacillus Subtilis, Co(II) complex has the highest activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Cd(II) complex has the highest activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. In addition, the molecular docking study was performed to explore the possible ways for binding to crystal structure of Staphylococcus aureus nucleoside diphosphate kinase complexed with ADP (PDB ID: 3Q8U). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current investigation aimed to evaluate the role of silicon forms on sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) biomass and essential oil (EO) production, as well as some physiological and ultrastructural modification under different irrigation regimes. Drought significantly decreased plant growth, photosynthetic pigment, ion, relative water content, catalase activity, and EO yield, meanwhile, increased organic and antioxidant solute concentration, EO percentage, peroxidase activity, and oxidative impairment criteria (hydrogen peroxide, lipid peroxidation, and membrane permeability percentage). Concerning EO constituents, linalool and methyl chavicol were the major components that decreased under drought relative to well-watered plants. Exogenous application of silicon forms under well-watered or drought condition may fully or partially compensate to some extent to sweet basil plant development and biochemical attributes (photosynthetic pigment, ion percentage, antioxidant solutes, and organic osmolytes). The maximum EO yield was obtained by 250 mg L−1 sodium metasilicate (Si) under mild drought. Cell organelles exhibited a different degree of malformation and lyse under severe drought; conversely, application of Si forms nullify the abovementioned injuries caused by drought. In conclusion, application of 250 mg L−1 Si improved drought tolerance in sweet basil herb and EO yield by accelerating their antioxidant system, osmoregulation, and maintaining organelles ultrastructure that induced herb growth and EO yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Soil Sciences & Agricultural Engineering is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) 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.)

Copyright of Journal of Soil Sciences & Agricultural Engineering is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) 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.)

Copyright of Assiut Journal of Agricultural Sciences is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) 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.)

Copyright of Zagazig Journal of Agricultural Research is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) 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.)

Copyright of Journal of Plant Protection & Pathology is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) 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.)

Copyright of Journal of Soil Sciences & Agricultural Engineering is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) 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.)

Copyright of Assiut Journal of Agricultural Sciences is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) 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.)

Copyright of Egyptian Journal of Dairy Science is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) 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.)

Copyright of Journal of Soil Sciences & Agricultural Engineering is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) 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.)

A new Schiff base derived from the condensation of 2‐acetylferrocene with l‐histidine was prepared and characterized using elemental analyses and spectroscopic methods. Cr(III), Mn(II), Fe(III), Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), Zn(II) and Cd(II) complexes of the Schiff base were prepared and characterized using various physicochemical methods such as elemental analysis, Fourier transform infrared and UV–visible spectroscopies, molar conductance, thermal analysis and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Both ligand and complexes were investigated for their biological and anticancer activities. The elemental analyses showed that complexes were formed in a metal‐to‐ligand ratio of 1:1 stoichiometry. The spectral analyses proved that the ligand was tridentate and all complexes had an octahedral geometry, except the Zn(II) complex that was tetrahedral. SEM showed that the ligand and its Cd(II) complex were of nanometric structure. The molecular and electronic structure of the free ligand was optimized theoretically and the quantum chemical parameters were calculated. The molecular structure can be used to investigate the coordination sites and the total charge density around each atom. According to anticancer studies, Cd(II) complex was recommended to be used as anti‐breast cancer drug as it had very low IC50 (3.5 μg ml−1). Molecular docking was used to predict the binding between the free ligand and its Cd(II) complex and crystal structure of Staphylococcus aureus (PDB ID: 3Q8u), receptors of breast cancer mutant oxidoreductase (PDB ID: 3Hb5) and crystal structure of Escherichia coli (PDB ID: 3 T88) and to identify the binding mode and the crucial functional groups interacting with the three proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Soil Sciences & Agricultural Engineering is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) 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.)

Copyright of Zagazig Journal of Agricultural Research is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) 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.)

Atorvastatin is a lipid lowering agent and widely used to treat hypercholestermia. However following oral administration, the bioavailability of the drug is only 12% due to extensive first pass metabolism. The aim of the current research was to formulate ATO- transdermal patches utilizing various polymers combinations. Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose with either eudragit RS100 or Polyvinylpyrrolidone were mixed in different ratios, in presence of polyethylene glycol 400 as plasticizer. The patches were prepared by solvent evaporation method. Physicomechanical parameters such as, drug content, patch thickness, tensile strength, moisture loss and moisture gained were evaluated. Additionally drug excipient compatibility was assessed by FTIR and DSC. In vitro drug release was measured in phosphate buffer pH 7.4 at 37 °C. Finally, biochemical evaluation of the best formulae was evaluated on hyperlipidemic-induced rats. The results indicated that, Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose: Polyvinylpyrrolidone in a ratio of 3:1 showed the most appropriate physicomechanical characters with confirmed physical and chemical drug-polymer compatibility. In addition, the in-vitro experiment showed enhanced atorvastatin release over 24 hr. The pharmacological evaluation of F2 formula indicated a significant hypolibedimic effect compared to orally administered atorvastatin. The results revealed that, atorvastatin transdermal patch could be considered as promising drug delivery system for hyperlipidemic patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Newly developed modified and in situ modified carbon paste sensors were developed for the determination of chlorpromazine hydrochloride (CPZHC) in pharmaceutical formulations and biological fluids (urine and serum). The developed electrodes were characterized and optimized with respect to the main experimental parameters affecting the electrode performance including the composition, pH, temperature, response time, lifespan and interferences. The electrodes chemically modified with CPZ-TPB (electrode I) and CPZ-RN (electrode II) ion pairs exhibit a linear response over a concentration range of 1.0 × 10−6–1.0 × 10−2 mol L−1 with Nernstian slope values of 59.00 ± 1.75 and 55.50 ± 1.70 mV decade−1 at 25 °C over the pH range of 2–6 and 4–8, respectively. Meanwhile, in situ electrodes modified with NaTPB (electrode III), PTA (electrode IV) and RN (electrode V) ion pairing agents exhibited a linear response within the concentration ranges from 1.0 × 10−6 to 1.0 × 10−2, 1.0 × 10−6 to 1.0 × 10−2 and 1.0 × 10−7 to 1.0 × 10−2 mol L−1 with Nernstian slope values of 57.80 ± 0.37, 59.70 ± 0.88 and 59.57 ± 0.95 mV decade−1 at room temperature (25 °C) over the pH range of 2–6, 4–8 and 2–6, respectively. The dynamic response time of the modified electrodes was 7 s for a duration time of 53 and 35 days for electrodes (I) and (II), respectively. Meanwhile, the in situ modified electrodes had a fast dynamic response time of 11, 8 and 13 s for the duration time of 24, 42 and 58 days, respectively, for electrodes III, IV and V. The sensors were found to have good selectivity for CPZHC in the presence of some metal ions, sugars and glycine. Successfully, the developed sensors were used for the determination of CPZHC in neurazine tablets, urine and serum using calibration, potentiometric titration and standard addition methods. The obtained results were compared successfully with respect to those obtained using the official method. The proposed sensors showed significantly high selectivity, response time, accuracy, precision, limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) compared with other proposed methods, which confirmed the potential applicability of the developed method for the determination of CPZHC in real pharmaceutical tablets, serum and urine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

FIELD experiments were performed during the summer seasons of 2014 and 2015 at El-Baramon Experimental Farm, Dakahlia Governorate, Egypt to study the effect of irrigation levels and some foliar applications of antitranspirants on the growth, yield, water use efficiency and NPK content of cabbage grown in clayey-textured soil. Results indicated that frequent irrigation with 100% replenishment of evaporation losses resulted in the highest fresh and head weight, stem diameter, yield and NPK content. On other hand, the flowering and dry matter percentage recorded a negative liner. Water use efficiency recorded high value with either100% or 80 % replenishment of evaporation losses. Also, the antitranspirants foliar application increased significantly all characters under study. Whereas, the beneficial effect of antitranspirants foliar application can be arranged as follows: CaCO3> kaolin> K2SO4> plastic film> mineral oil as compared with the untreated plants. Apparently, plant growth, yield and NPK content increased with evaporation replenishment at 80% level and with the application of antitranspirants and decreased with increasing water stress (60%). Generally, it could be concluded that the treatment of 80% replenishment of evaporation within 3% CaCO3was the best combination and it could be recommended for cabbage (c.v. Balady) grown under similar field conditions in order to get optimum yield and to save irrigation water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As part of our continued search for bioactive secondary metabolites from marine sources using a bioassay-guided fractionation technique (Cytotoxic and anti-trypanosome activities), we have examined the organic extract of Papua New Guinean collection of the green alga Udotea orientalis growing on the Gorgonian coral Pseudopterogorgia rigida. Successive HPLC investigations resulted in isolation of three new compounds, (+) curcuepoxide A, (+) curcuepoxide B and (+)-10α-hydroxycurcudiol. Analysis of different spectroscopic data e.g. UV, IR, LRMS, HRMS, 1D NMR and 2D NMR on the isolated compounds allowed for construction of the planar structures. Stereochemistry assignment at C-7 and C-10 in the new compounds was discussed. Isolated compounds were found to be active in an in vitro assay of antitrypanosome activity. The isolated compounds were found to have variable cytotoxic activity in human lung cancer cell lines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a result of our efforts to identify bioactive agents from marine algae, we have isolated and identified one new halogenated monoterpene 1 [(-)-(5E,7Z)-348-trichloro-7-dichloromethyl-3-methyl-157-octatriene] in addition to three known compounds (2, 3 and 4) from the red alga Plocamium cartilagineum collected by hand from the eastern coast of South Africa. Compound 1 was found to be active as a cytotoxic agent in human lung cancer (NCI-H460) and mouse neuro-2a cell lines (IC50 4 μg/mL). Two of these compounds (3 and 4) were found to have cytotoxic activity in other cell line assays, especially against human leukaemia and human colon cancers (IC50 1.3 μg/mL). None of these metabolites were active as sodium channel blockers or activators. All structures were determined by spectroscopic methods (UV, IR, LRMS, HRMS, 1D NMR and 2D NMR). 1D and 2D NOE experiments were carried out on these compounds to confirm the geometry of the double bonds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Soil Sciences & Agricultural Engineering is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) 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.)

Objectives: The premature loss of primary teeth is a potential risk factor for poor arch length development. Adequate arch length is important to the progression of the permanent teeth. Poor arch length can lead to crowding, ectopic eruption, or impaction of these teeth. This study is designed to assess the prevalence of premature loss of primary teeth in the 5-10-year-old age group. Materials and Methods: The study group included 185 children, that is, 91 boys and 94 girls. The dental examination was conducted by an experienced examiner under sufficient artificial light. Data including patient age and missing teeth were collected. Descriptive statistics were applied for data analysis, and from the results, Chi-square tests were used at a level of significance of 5% (P < 0.05). Results: We observed a 40.54% prevalence of premature loss of primary teeth with no statistically significant difference between genders. The lower left primary second molar was the most commonly absent tooth in the dental arch (13.5%). Conclusion: The status of premature loss of primary teeth was high in the study group. Implementation of efficient educational and preventive programs to promote oral health would help children maintain a healthy primary dentition and eventually prevent the disturbances in the future development of normal occlusion. Early detection and management of the space problems associated with the early loss of primary teeth would help in reducing malocclusion problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Soil Sciences & Agricultural Engineering is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) 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.)

Copyright of Zagazig Journal of Agricultural Research is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) 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.)

Background: Globalization of the professions has become a necessity among schools and universities across the world. It has affected the medical and dental professions in terms of curriculum design and student and patient needs. In Japan, where medicine and dentistry are taught mainly in the Japanese language, profession-based courses in English, known as Medical English and Dental English, have been integrated into the existing curriculum among its 83 medical and 29 dental schools. Unfortunately, there is neither a core curriculum nor a model syllabus for these courses. Methods: This report is based on a survey, two discussion forums, a workshop, and finally, the drafting of a proposed core curriculum for dental English approved by consensus of the participants from each university. Results: The core curriculum covers the theoretical aspects, including dental English terms and oral pathologies; and practical aspects, including blended learning and dentist-patient communication. It is divided into modules and is recommended to be offered for at least two semesters. Conclusions: The core curriculum is expected to guide curriculum developers in schools where dental English courses are yet to be offered or are still in their early development. It may also serve as a model curriculum to medical and dental schools in countries in Asia, Europe, Africa, and Central and South America, where English is not the medium of instruction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long-standing diabetes is associated with increased oxidative stress and cardiac fibrosis. This, in turn, contributes to the progression of cardiomyopathy. The present study was sought to investigate whether the free radical scavenger, 4-hydroxy-2,2,6,6-tetramethyl piperidinoxyl (tempol) can protect against diabetic cardiomyopathy and to explore the specific underlying mechanism(s) in this setting. Diabetes was induced in rats by a single intraperitoneal injection dose of streptozotocin (50 mg/kg). These animals were treated with tempol (18 mg kg −1 day −1, orally) for 8 weeks. Our results showed significant increases in collagen IV and fibronectin protein levels and a marked decrease in matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) activity measured by gelatin-gel zymography alongside elevated cardiac transforming growth factor (TGF)-β level determined using ELISA or immunohistochemistry in cardiac tissues of diabetic rats compared with control. This was accompanied by an increased in the oxidative stress as evidenced by increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and decreased antioxidant enzyme capacity along with elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine kinase (CK-MB) serum levels as compared with the control. Tempol treatment significantly corrected the changes in the cardiac extracellular matrix, TGF-β, ROS or serum LDH, CK-MB levels, and normalized MMP-2 activity along with preservation of cardiac tissues integrity of diabetic rats against damaging responses. Moreover, tempol normalized the elevated systolic blood pressure and improved some cardiac functions in diabetic rats. Collectively, our data suggest a potential protective role of tempol against diabetes-associated cardiac fibrosis in rats via reducing oxidative stress and extracellular matrix remodeling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dental schools in Japan are among many worldwide whose medium of instruction is not in English. With advances in science, technology, and communication, the demand for the globalization of professions increases. At present, dental schools in Asia, the Middle East, and Europe have started revising their dental curricula to either include English courses for dentistry or offer a full English dental curriculum. In Japan, dental English courses started to be introduced into curricula in the early 1990s. However, a survey conducted in 1999 found that English courses were not offered in Japan's twenty-nine dental schools and there was no consensus as to what such courses should include or when and how they should be taught. Ten years after that survey, the survey results reported in this article found that the problems reported in the 1999 survey still exist. Additionally, there are still differences among schools offering English courses in terms of the timing and contents of the courses. Since teachers and school officials will have an important role in curriculum development, this article recommends that a fact-finding meeting with educators, school, and education officials be initiated to discuss, develop, and implement a core curriculum for these dental English courses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

doi: 10.1111/j.1741-2358.2011.00596.x Postural stability and occlusal status among Japanese elderly Background: There are still no data available on the relationship between postural stability and occlusal status among the elderly. Objectives: To examine relationships between postural stability and occlusal status through a cohort study among elderly Japanese. Method: Oral examination, occlusal status, postural stability and a questionnaire were conducted and given to 87 community-dwelling Japanese at enrolment. Results: The average occlusal pressure of the female group was statistically higher than the male group while average occlusal pressure and postural stability length were lesser in the group with more remaining teeth. Postural stability area and number of remaining teeth showed statistically significant correlations. Postural stability length was lesser in the group with strong occlusal force. Furthermore, the number of decayed teeth was fewer in the good hygiene group. Conclusions: This study identified a close relationship between occlusal status and postural stability of Japanese older individuals. Occlusal hypofunction was observed more in those with occlusal problems, and a decrease in their occlusal functions resulted in postural instability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cytoglobin (Cygb) was first described in 2002 as an intracellular globin of unknown function. We have previously shown the downregulation of cytoglobin as a key event in a familial cancer syndrome of the upper aerodigestive tract.Methods: Cytoglobin expression and promoter methylation were investigated in sporadic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) using a cross-section of clinical samples. Additionally, the putative mechanisms of Cygb expression in cancer were explored by subjecting HNSCC cell lines to hypoxic culture conditions and 5-aza-2-deoxycitidine treatment.Results: In clinically derived HNSCC samples, CYGB mRNA expression showed a striking correlation with tumour hypoxia (measured by HIF1A mRNA expression P=0.013) and consistent associations with histopathological measures of tumour aggression. CYGB expression also showed a marked negative correlation with promoter methylation (P=0.018). In the HNSCC cell lines cultured under hypoxic conditions, a trend of increasing expression of both CYGB and HIF1A with progressive hypoxia was observed. Treatment with 5-aza-2-deoxycitidine dramatically increased CYGB expression in those cell lines with greater baseline promoter methylation.Conclusion: We conclude that the CYGB gene is regulated by both promoter methylation and tumour hypoxia in HNSCC and that increased expression of this gene correlates with clincopathological measures of a tumour's biological aggression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Complexes resulted from the interaction of [Ph3P]3RuCl2 with 2-aminoethylpyridine (aepy), 2-hydrazinopyridine (hzpy) and dipicolylamine (dpa) with KPF6 have been isolated from ethanol. The structures of the complexes were investigated using elemental analyses, IR, magnetic moment, UV-Vis and 1H NMR spectroscopy. The complexes have been isolated as [Ru(hzpy)3](PF6)2, [Ru(hzpy)2(aepy)](PF6)2, [Ru(hzpy)(aepy)2](PF6)2, [Ru(dpa)2](PF6)2 in an octahedral geometry. The thermal decomposition of complexes was discussed in terms of their structures and the thermodynamic parameters were evaluated. The metal complexes were screened for their antibacterial activity against bacterial species, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, as well as fungus ( Candida). The activity data show the metal complexes have potent antibacterials against one ore more bacterial species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal complexes of Schiff base derived from 2-furancarboxaldehyde and 2-aminobenzoic acid (HL) are reported and characterized based on elemental analyses, IR, 1H NMR, UV-Vis, solid reflectance, magnetic moment, molar conductance and thermal analysis. The ligand dissociation as well as the metal-ligand stability constants have been calculated pH-metrically at 25°C and ionic strength μ=0.1 (1 M NaCl). The complexes are found to have the formulae [M(HL)2]( X)n· yH2O (where M=Fe(III) ( X=Cl, n=3, y=4), Co(II) ( X=Cl, n= y=2), Ni(II) ( X=Cl, n= y=2), Cu(II) ( X=Cl, n= y=2) and Zn(II) ( X=AcO, n= y=2)) and [UO2(L)2]·2H2O. The thermal behaviour of these chelates is studied and the activation thermodynamic parameters are calculated using Coats-Redfern method. The ligand and its metal complexes show a biological activity against some bacterial species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVES: To assess caries risk and check the presence of four commonly found oral cariogenic bacteria in “8020” achievers. DESIGN: Initial report based on Japan's newly implemented “8020” campaign, which aims to promote health and awareness in older people. Simply stated, the goal is, at 80 years, to maintain 20 teeth. SETTING: Healthy community-dwelling elderly individuals of Okayama Prefecture, Japan. PARTICIPANTS: One hundred sixty individuals aged 80 and older with 20 of their own natural teeth. MEASUREMENTS: General and oral health conditions, caries risk assessment using the Cariostat method, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) detection of four oral cariogenic bacteria. RESULTS: The participants had an average of 24.7 teeth, of which 12.1 were sound, 12.2 were treated, and 0.4 were untreated. Based on Cariostat scores, 64.4% had low caries risk. Using PCR, Streptococcus mutans, S. sobrinus, Lactobacillus casei, and L. plantarum were detected in 51.3%, 23.1%, 40%, and 25% of the participants, respectively. S. mutans ( P<.001), S. sobrinus ( P=.002), L. casei ( P<.001), and L. plantarum ( P=.001) deoxyribonucleic acid band was detected more in participants with high caries risk scores. CONCLUSION: Participants with low caries risk scores had low prevalence of cariogenic bacteria, 20 or more sound teeth, and fewer missing teeth. Incorporating caries risk assessment, using the Cariostat and PCR analysis, in the “8020” campaign in health systems worldwide will contribute to a better life for the aging society, initiate research interest regarding the program, and improve current health policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research investigates the means to improve the compressive strength of mortar mixtures through using novel mixtures. These mixtures include magnetic water (MW) and fly ash (FA). MW was obtained by circulating tap water (TW) through a magnetic field. The magnetization duration was represented by the number of cycles, the content of FA was replaced with cement, and the super plasticizer percentage (SP) and the curing age were used and evaluated experimentally for producing the mortar mixtures. Mortar flow, crushing compressive strength, and ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) tests were applied to evaluate the performances of mixing characteristics. The results demonstrate that the MW-treated mortar mixtures show higher compression strength results than those prepared by TW. The compressive strength was increased up to 60% with 150 cycles, a dose of 0.5% of SP and no FA content at the age of 56 days. The dose of SP can be cut down by a maximum of 40% to 50% in cementitious mortar. the workability was enhanced by a percentage of 70%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 52 year old man with chronic pancreatitis presented with recurrent upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Gastroscopy was normal, but visceral angiography suggested that there were gastric varices. Despite treatment with propranolol he had further episodes of bleeding and so underwent splenectomy to decompress the gastric varices. When the spleen was removed, however, an inflammatory mass in the head of the pancreas adherent to the posterior gastric wall was noted. Within it the splenic artery was visible and communicated with the gastric lumen through a small opening in the gastric wall. The artery was ligated and the patient has since had no further bleeding. Thus, chronic pancreatitis should be considered as a cause of recurrent upper gastro-intestinal bleeding, especially when gastroscopy is normal. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

A 46 year old woman presented with the CREST variety of systemic sclerosis and occult gastrointestinal bleeding due to vascular malformations of her stomach. Partial gastrectomy cured her anaemia. In systemic sclerosis, visceral angiography should be performed early when initial investigations have been negative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]