Showing papers by "University of Jordan published in 2006"

The Effect of Multiple Substituents on Sandwich and T-Shaped π–π Interactions

Abstract: Sandwich and T-shaped configurations of substituted benzene dimers were studied by second-order perturbation theory to determine how substituents tune pi-pi interactions. Remarkably, multiple substituents have an additive effect on the binding energy of sandwich dimers, except in some cases when substituents are aligned on top of each other. The energetics of substituted T-shaped configurations are more complex, but nevertheless a simple model that accounts for electrostatic and dispersion interactions (and direct contacts between substituents on one ring and hydrogen atoms on the other), provides a good match to the quantum mechanical results. These results provide insight into the manner by which substituents csan be utilized in supramolecular design.

The Arabidopsis homolog of trithorax, ATX1, binds phosphatidylinositol 5-phosphate, and the two regulate a common set of target genes

Abstract: The Arabidopsis homolog of trithorax, ATX1, regulates numerous functions in Arabidopsis beyond the homeotic genes. Here, we identified genome-wide targets of ATX1 and showed that ATX1 is a receptor for a lipid messenger, phosphatidylinositol 5-phosphate, PI5P. PI5P negatively affects ATX1 activity, suggesting a regulatory pathway connecting lipid-signaling with nuclear functions. We propose a model to illustrate how plants may respond to stimuli (external or internal) that elevate cellular PI5P levels by altering expression of ATX1-controlled genes.

Evaluation of traffic noise pollution in Amman, Jordan.

Abstract: The City of Amman, Jordan, has been subjected to persistent increase in road traffic due to overall increase in prosperity, fast development and expansion of economy, travel and tourism. This study investigates traffic noise pollution in Amman. Road traffic noise index L10(1 h) was measured at 28 locations that cover most of the City of Amman. Noise measurements were carried out at these 28 locations two times a day for a period of one hour during the early morning and early evening rush hours, in the presence and absence of a barrier. The Calculation of Road Traffic Noise (CRTN) prediction model was employed to predict noise levels at the locations chosen for the study. Data required for the model include traffic volume, speed, percentage of heavy vehicles, road surface, gradient, obstructions, distance, noise path, intervening ground, effect of shielding, and angle of view. The results of the investigation showed that the minimum and the maximum noise levels are 46 dB(A) and 81 dB(A) during day-time and 58 dB(A) and 71 dB(A) during night-time. The measured noise level exceeded the 62 dB(A) acceptable limit at most of the locations. The CTRN prediction model was successful in predicting noise levels at most of the locations chosen for this investigation, with more accurate predictions for night-time measurements.

Diabetic foot infection.

Abstract: Diabetic foot infection DFI is simply defined as suspected or documented infection of the tissues that comprise the foot of a diabetic patient. Diabetic foot infection is often caused by introduction of an infection into the otherwise sterile soft tissues of the foot through a minor skin break down. Diabetic foot infection may be mild usually restricted to the uppermost layers of the skin, moderate extending down to the soft tissues of the foot or severe infection associated with systemic toxicity or metabolic instability. The paper reviews the types of DFI, pathophysiology, microbiology of DFI, relevant anatomy of the foot, clinical evaluation, measures of severity of DFI, the role of radiological investigations, and the role of early surgical intervention in the prevention of progressive foot infection and limb salvage. It is concluded that the diagnosis of DFI should be suspected at an early stage based on the presence of local signs of inflammation with or without systemic signs of toxicity or metabolic instability. Optimal treatment of DFI requires a multimodality approach directed at controlling hyperglycemia, administration of systemic antibiotics, and local wound management to prevent the spread and dissemination of infection.

Validation of a comprehensive classification tool for treatment-related problems

Abstract: Several drug-related problem classification systems can be found in the literature. However, it is generally agreed that a comprehensive, well constructed and validated instrument is currently lacking. The aim of this study is the development and validation of a comprehensive treatment-related problems assessment and classification tool for use in teaching, practicing and researching pharmaceutical care and to improve identification, resolving and preventing of treatment-related problems. The development and validation involved five steps starting with literature search to define a treatment related problem and also to form a database of treatment-related problems identified in the literature. In the next step, all problems that were identified in the first step and passed the evaluation of the three authors were pooled together and then divided into groups according to their common or shared construct, in the third step a suitable assessment method was developed according to the construct of the different problems, in the next step the developed instrument was validated for content, internal and external validity. Finally the tool was finalized and tested for reproducibility and inter-rater agreement. The final validated version included six main categories for treatment-related problems (Indication, Effectiveness, Safety, Knowledge, Adherence and Miscellaneous). These categories include a total of nine subcategories and a total of 29 treatment related problems. The treatment-related problems assessment and classification tool introduced in this paper was applied to actual patient cases and proved to be valid. This tool also has several features that are new.

Pharmacy Education in Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait

Abstract: The practice of pharmacy, as well as pharmacy education, varies significantly throughout the world. In Jordan, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia, the profession of pharmacy appears to be on the ascendance. This is demonstrated by an increase in the number of pharmacy schools and the number of pharmacy graduates from pharmacy programs. One of the reasons pharmacy is on the ascendance in these countries is government commitment to fund and support competitive, well-run pharmacy programs. In this report we describe pharmacy education in 3 Middle East countries: Jordan, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia. All 3 countries offer bachelor of pharmacy (BPharm) degrees. In addition, 2 universities in Jordan and 1 in Saudi Arabia offer PharmD degree programs. The teaching methods in all 3 countries combine traditional didactic lecturing and problem-based learning. Faculties of pharmacy in all 3 countries are well staffed and offer competitive remuneration. All 3 countries have a policy of providing scholarships to local students for postgraduate training abroad. The majority of students in Jordan and Kuwait are female, while the ratio of male to female students in Saudi Arabia is even. Students’ attitudes towards learning are generally positive in all 3 countries. In Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, most pharmacy graduates work in the public sector, while in Jordan, the majority work in the private sector.

Geometric and mathematical proportions and their relations to maxillary anterior teeth.

Abstract: AIM: One of the critical aspects of esthetic dentistry is creating geometric or mathematical proportions to relate the successive widths of the anterior teeth. The golden proportion, the recurring esthetic dental (RED) proportion, and the golden percentage are theories introduced in this field. The aim of this study was to investigate the existence of the golden proportion, RED proportion, and the golden percentage between the widths of the maxillary anterior teeth in individuals with natural dentition. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Standardized frontal images of 376 dental student smiles were captured. The images were transferred to a personal computer, the widths of the maxillary anterior teeth were measured, and calculations were made according to each of the above mentioned theories. The data were statistically analyzed using paired student T-test (level of significance P<0.05). RESULTS: The golden proportion was found to be accurate between the width of the right central and lateral incisors in 31.3% of men and 27.1% of women. The values of the RED proportion were not constant, and the farther the one moves distally from the midline the higher the values. Furthermore, the results revealed the golden percentage was rather constant in terms of relative tooth width. The width of the central incisor represents 23%, the lateral incisor 15%, and the canine 12% of the width of the six maxillary anterior teeth as viewed from the front. CONCLUSIONS: Both the golden proportion and the RED proportion are unsuitable methods to relate the successive widths of the maxillary anterior teeth. However, the golden percentage theory seems to be applicable to relate the successive widths of the maxillary anterior teeth if percentages are adjusted taking into consideration the ethnicity of the population.

Assessment of development of the learning organization concept in Jordanian industrial companies

Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this research is to examine the impact on organizational performance of the application of management and human resource practices, and to attempt to outline key elements and assess development of the learning organization (LO) concept in Jordan.Design/methodology/approach – The tool described in this article assesses relationships between LO practices and financial and operational performance measures. The empirical research aims at deconstructing the LO formation through the development and validation of a conceptual model. A total of 41 companies belonging to large industrial sectors in Jordan participated in a survey by responding to a research questionnaire.Findings – The outcomes of the study indicate that the LO concept can be explored in Jordanian industry using eight constructs. These constructs were found to be strongly correlated. In general, this study identifies basic steps in the process of transformation into a learning organization in Jordan.Originality/value – The...

In vitro antiproliferative effect of six Salvia species on human tumor cell lines

Abstract: This study was designed to examine the in vitro antiproliferative activity of the methanol crude extracts of six Salvia species: Salvia dominica L. leaves, Salvia lanigera Desf. aerial parts, Salvia menthaefolia Ten. roots, Salvia palaestina Benth. aerial parts, Salvia sclarea L. roots and Salvia spinosa L. aerial parts. Extracts were screened for their possible antitumoral activity by MTT test on nine human cancer cell lines: glioblastoma (DBTRG-05MG, T98G, U-87MG), colorectal adenocarcinoma (WiDr and HT-29), prostate adenocarcinoma (MDA Pca2b), choriocarcinoma (JEG-3), endometrium adenocarcinoma (HEC-1A) and B lymphoblast (CIR). IC50 values were determined for only five extracts and ranged from 90 to 400 mg/mL approximately. Salvia menthaefolia extract exhibited marked antiproliferative activity against all tumor cell lines showing lower IC50 values, while S. spinosa, S. sclarea and S. dominica extracts showed a degree cytotoxic activity dependent on the cell line type. Finally S. palaestina extract revealed a moderate antiproliferative effect only against three cell lines. Salvia lanigera extract displayed toxic activity at all concentrations tested. The results strengthen the evidence that the genus Salvia could be considered a natural resource of potential antitumor agents. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

The Impact of Marketing Actions on Relationship Quality in the Higher Education Sector in Jordan

Abstract: This field/analytical study examined the marketing actions (antecedents) and performance (consequences) of relationship quality in a higher education setting. To analyze data collected from a random sample of 271 undergraduate students at AL-Zaytoonah Private University of Jordan, the linear structural relationship (LISREL) model was used to identify structural characteristics of relationship management between the University employees, including academic and administrative staff and students. The empirical results of this study were fourfold. First, greater employees' relational and student orientation resulted in higher relationship quality. Second, better education providers' (employees') attributes resulted in higher relationship quality. Third, higher relationship quality resulted in better relationship continuity. Fourth, committed student relationships resulted in student satisfaction, loyalty, positive word of mouth, and promotion. These in turn contributed to the enhancement of universit...

Determination of a human hepatic microsomal scaling factor for predicting in vivo drug clearance.

Abstract: To determine a microsomal scaling factor for human liver suitable for prediction of in vivo drug clearance from in vitro data and to explore the role of inter-liver variability in this factor on the reported underprediction from microsomal parameters. Cytochrome P450 (henceforth P450) content in whole homogenates and microsomes from 38 donor livers was used to determine a microsomal scaling factor. In a subset (n = 20) of these preparations, individual P450 enzymes were examined by Western blotting and selective probe activities were determined. The scaling factor from 38 livers averaged 40 mg microsomal protein per gram liver with a coefficient of variation of 31%. Western blotting experiments indicated that there was no P450 enzyme-specific trend in the distribution of individual P450 enzymes in liver microsomes relative to whole homogenate. Predictions based on an average scaling factor resulted in a satisfactory prediction of intrinsic clearance of three benzodiazepines similar to that obtained using individual factors for the same livers. A value for human liver microsomal scaling of 40 mg microsomal protein per gram liver has been established. The reason for underprediction previously reported for 52 different drug substrates was not the use of an incorrect value for the scaling factor.

Composition of the Essential Oil from Artemisia herba-alba Grown in Jordan

Abstract: The composition of the essential oil hydrodistilled from the aerial parts of Artemisia herba-alba Asso. growing in Jordan was determined by GC and GC/MS. The oil yield was 1.3% (v/w) from dried tops (leaves, stems and flowers). Forty components corresponding to 95.3% of the oil were identified, of which oxygenated monoterpenes were the main oil fraction (39.3% of the oil), with α- and β-thujones as the principal components (24.7%). The other major identified components were: santolina alcohol (13.0%), artemisia ketone (12.4%), trans-sabinyl acetate (5.4%), germacrene D (4.6%), α-eudesmol (4.2%) and caryophyllene acetate (5.7%). The high oil yield and the substantial levels of potentially active components, in particular thujones and santolina alcohol, in the oil of this Jordanian species make the plant and the oil thereof promising candidates as natural herbal constituents of antimicrobial drug combinations.

Thermal and flow analysis of a magneto-hydrodynamic micropump

Abstract: A study of transient fully developed laminar flow and temperature distribution in a magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) micropump is presented. The micropump is driven using the Lorentz force which is induced as a result of interaction between an applied electric field and a perpendicular magnetic field. The governing equations are solved analytically by an eigenfunction expansion method, and numerically by a finite-difference (ADI) method. The numerical and analytical results are found to be in good agreement with each other. The effect of different parameters on the transient velocity and temperature, such as aspect ratio, Hartman number, Prandtl number, and Eckert number is studied. The results obtained showed that controlling the flow and the temperature can be achieved by controlling the potential difference, the magnetic flux, and by a good choice of the electrical conductivity.

Delay of ovulation by meloxicam in healthy cycling volunteers: A placebo-controlled, double-blind, crossover study.

Abstract: This study aimed to assess the effect of meloxicam on female ovulation. Twenty consented fertile females were monitored for 4 menstrual cycles: a baseline cycle, 2 treatment cycles, and a washout cycle between treatment cycles. In the first cycle visit, transvaginal ultrasound was performed, a blood sample for progesterone and meloxicam analysis was withdrawn, and volunteers were given a luteinizing hormone (LH) urine test kit and meloxicam or placebo. Volunteers started the treatment on the following day and asked to return the day the LH kit was positive to detect the dominant follicle. At subsequent visits, transvaginal ultrasound and progesterone and meloxicam levels were investigated. Compared to placebo, a 5-day delay in follicle rupture, a 55.7% increase in the mean maximum follicle diameter, and 33.5% decrease of plasma progesterone level were observed in the meloxicam-treated group. Such demonstrated meloxicam effects were reversed in participants who were randomized to meloxicam first and then placebo. Only minor side effects were reported by volunteers during the course of treatment. It is concluded that meloxicam resulted in a reversible delay of ovulation, an increase in follicular diameter, and a decrease in plasma progesterone level.

GIS-based evaluation of groundwater vulnerability in the Russeifa area, Jordan

Abstract: In recent years, groundwater quality has been deteriorating in many parts of Jordan as result of agriculture expansion, solid waste disposal, and industrialization. A preliminary assessment of vulnerability to groundwater contamination in Russeifa watershed area was undertaken because of the presence of the largest solid waste disposal site in Jordan, which is known as Russeifa landfi ll. The major geological and hydrogeological factors that affect and control groundwater contamination were incorporated into the DRASTIC model, to produce groundwater vulnerability and risk maps. Moreover, a Geographical Information System (GIS) was used to create a groundwater vulnerability map by overlaying the available hydrogeological data. The fi nal DRASTIC index indicated that the area surrounding the Russeifa landfi ll is highly vulnerable to groundwater contamination.

Adsorption of Cu(II) and Ni(II) on solid humic acid from the Azraq area, Jordan.

Abstract: Isotherms of adsorption of Cu(II) and Ni(II) onto solid Azraq humic acid (AZHA) were studied at different pH (2.0–3.7) values and 0.1 M NaClO4 ionic strength. The Langmuir monolayer adsorption capacity was found to range from 0.1 to 1.0 mmol metal ion/g AZHA, where Cu(II) has higher adsorptivity than Ni(II). The previously reported NICA–Donnan parameters for sorption of Cu(II) on HA fit the amount of Cu(bound) determined in the present study at pH 3.7 but underestimates those at pH values of 3.0, 2.4, and 2.0. The contribution of low affinity sites to binding of metal ions increases with decreasing pH and increasing metal ion loading. The aggregation of HA, which is facilitated by decreasing pH and increasing metal loading, may increase the ability of low-affinity sites to encapsulate metal ions. The binding of Ni(II) to HA exhibits less heterogeneity and less multidentism than that of Cu(II). AZHA loaded with Cu(II) and Ni(II) was found to be insoluble in water with no measurable amount of desorbed metal ions.

Psychometric properties of the Arabic version of Quality of Life Index.

Abstract: Aim. This paper reports a study to translate the English language version of the Quality of Life Index into Arabic and estimate its reliability and content validity. Background. Quality of life has become an important concern in health care and social policy. It is a difficult construct to define and measure, as it is determined by cultural, ethical, personal and religious values. The generic Ferrans and Powers Quality of Life Index was developed to measure quality of life of healthy individuals. Specific versions of the index were developed for particular diseases, such as diabetes, cancer and end-stage kidney disease. The instruments were initially developed for English-speaking clients and were later translated into several languages and used within a variety of cultures. However, there were no Arabic versions of the tool available to measure the quality of life of general populations or of people with particular diseases. Method. The Quality of Life Index was translated into Arabic using two of the techniques suggested in the literature for translation – back translation and bilingual technique. The same process was followed in the translation of the original scale and various disease-specific versions of the instrument. The work took place between 1995 and 2004. Findings. The translated Arabic Quality of Life Index demonstrated a high degree of accuracy of translation and estimates of content validity. Subsequent to the translation of the original scale into Arabic, 13 disease-related versions of the instrument were translated and are ready for use with clients who speak Arabic. Four of the versions have been used to collect data from clients. The results revealed high estimates of reliability for the generic, diabetes, cancer and dialysis versions. Conclusion. The Arabic version of the Quality of Life Index is highly reliable and has sufficient content validity for measuring quality of life of Arabic-speaking clients.