Palstudent Scientific Research Journal

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https://dspace.alquds.edu/handle/20.500.12213/6158

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Browsing Palstudent Scientific Research Journal by Author "Abdelraouf Ali Elmanama"

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    EVALUATION OF ANTIBIOTIC SUPPLY CHAIN IN GAZA
    (Deanship of Scientific Research - Al-Quds University, 2026-05-12) Yara Alsharif; Fatma Aldose; Abdelraouf Ali Elmanama
    Background: Antibiotics are essential for treating infectious diseases, particularly in pediatric and emergency care. In conflict-affected settings such as the Gaza Strip, prolonged political instability, blockade, and recurrent wars have severely disrupted healthcare systems, including pharmaceutical supply chains. These disruptions increase the risk of antibiotic shortages, compromise treatment outcomes, and contribute to antimicrobial resistance. Objectives: This study aimed to assess risks associated with the antibiotic supply chain in the Gaza Strip during prolonged crises, identify key challenges affecting availability and distribution, and evaluate the impact of shortages on patient health outcomes. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using a structured questionnaire targeting healthcare professionals involved in antibiotic prescribing, dispensing, and supply chain management, including physicians, pediatricians, pharmacists, and supply officers. A total of 143 participants were randomly selected based on predefined inclusion criteria. Data were analyzed using SPSS to generate descriptive statistics.
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    POTENTIAL HEALTH RISKS OF CONSUMING CONTAMINATED FLOUR
    (Deanship of Scientific Research - Al-Quds University, 2026-05-12) Sara Ahmed Nayef; Ikram Imad Alkhatib; Sara Jama Elzebda; Tahreer Hisham Muhaisen; Tala Nehad Alqishawi; Abdelraouf Ali Elmanama; Renad Ibrahim Abu Dan
    Background: Flour is an essential, widely consumed staple and an ideal vehicle for multi-micronutrient fortification. Wheat flour, in particular, is valued for its nutritional content, providing protein, B-group vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. The Gaza Strip, home to nearly 2.2 million people—47% of whom are children—has been under prolonged blockade and recurrent conflict. Recent hostilities have intensified food and nutrition insecurity, forcing many households to rely on flour from informal or compromised sources. Historically, flour was not considered a source of pathogenic microorganisms; however, recent evidence has identified pathogens such as *Salmonella* and *Escherichia coli* in wheat flour, linked to foodborne outbreaks. Flour is also susceptible to fungal contamination, including molds such as *Aspergillus*, *Penicillium*, and *Fusarium*, which can produce harmful mycotoxins. In addition, concerns exist regarding chemical contaminants, including pesticide residues, heavy metals, and anthropogenic radionuclides. These risks are particularly significant for vulnerable populations such as children and pregnant women. Objectives: (1) To identify and classify major microbial, fungal, and chemical contaminants found in flour; (2) to investigate reports of contaminated flour consumption in Gaza, including its scale, causes, and immediate health impacts; (3) to review current methods for detecting contamination; and (4) to evaluate preventive strategies for controlling contamination. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted to identify common contaminants, including *Salmonella*, *E. coli*, aflatoxins, pesticide residues, and heavy metals. In parallel, a structured household survey was administered to collect descriptive data on awareness, storage practices, and self-reported health effects related to flour consumption.