Vol 7 No.1

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https://dspace.alquds.edu/handle/20.500.12213/10031

7th Undergraduate Research Conference Proceedings

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Now showing 1 - 20 of 74

Intuitive Eating: its relationship with Body Mass Index, Internalized Weight Stigma, and Perceived Stress levels among young adults in the West Bank
(Deanship of Research - Al-Quds University, 2025-06) Yasmine Bilal Al Hmeidi; Bisan Shaqeirat; Sara Manasrah; Lama Ayad
Background: Intuitive Eating (IE) offers a refreshing approach to counter the dieting culture by emphasizing the importance of listening to our body's natural cues of hunger and satiety. For quite some time now, it has garnered a lot of attention due to numerous studies highlighting its ability to reduce Perceived Stress (PS), Body Mass Index (BMI), and Internalized Weight Stigma (IWS), which refers to the societal devaluation of individuals who are perceived to be overweight. Given the limited knowledge about IE within the Palestinian community, this study aims to assess the impact of IE on BMI, PS, and IWS levels in individuals aged 20-28, specifically those from a Palestinian background, particularly in the West Bank.
Myths and common misbeliefs about cervical cancer causation among Palestinian women: a national cross-sectional study
(Deanship of Research - Al-Quds University, 2025-06) Mariam Thalji; Mohamedraed Elshami; Hanan Abukmail; Mariam Thalji; Ibrahim Al Slaibi Mohammed Alser; Afnan Radaydeh; Alaa Alfuqaha; Salma Khader; Lana Khatib; Nour Fannoun; Bisan Ahmad; Lina Kassab; Hiba Khrishi; Deniz Elhussaini; Nour Abed; Aya Nammari; Tumodir Abdallah; Zaina Alqudwa; Shahd Idais; Ghaid Tanbouz; Ma’alem Hajajreh; Hala Abu Selmiyh; Zakia Abo Hajouj; Haya Hebib; Manar Zamel; Refqa Najeeb Skaik; Lama Hammoud; Saba Rjoub; Hadeel Ayesh; Toqa Rjoub; Rawan Zakout; Amany Alser; Shurouq I. Albarqi; Nasser Abu El Noor; Bettina Bottcher
Background: Cervical cancer (CC) myths and beliefs can negatively impact women’s preventive behaviors, including vaccination against human papillomavirus and having regular screening tests. This study aimed to examine the awareness of Palestinian women about myths related to CC causation and investigated factors associated with good awareness.
Factors Affecting Pharmacists’ Knowledge, Attitudes, and Barriers Towards Cancer and Colorectal Cancer Health Education: A Cross-Sectional Study from Palestine
(Deanship of Research - Al-Quds University, 2025-06-01) Tala Musleh; Moayad Amro; Donia Owies
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major global health issue and the third leading cause of mortality in Palestine. Early screening significantly reduces CRC-related deaths, yet little is known about pharmacists’ knowledge and attitudes toward CRC screening in Palestine. This study aims to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and barriers related to CRC screening among pharmacists in the West Bank. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among 417 practicing pharmacists in the West Bank from January 19 to February 19, 2025. The survey included questions on demographics, oncology background, barriers to screening, knowledge of CRC, risk factors, and attitudes toward early detection. Data were analyzed using SPSS v25.0, and multiple regression was performed to identify predictors of knowledge and attitudes.
Design of a 16-bit Binary Comparator
(Deanship of Research - Al-Quds University, 2025-06-01) Alhasan Manasra; Mohammed Khdour; Mohammed Hussien
Background: Comparators play a key role in digital circuits by determining the magnitude relationship between binary values. With the need for low-power designs in embedded systems, CMOS technology offers an ideal solution due to its complementary operation of NMOS and PMOS transistors.
Taafy: A website to provide psychological support to the people of Gaza
(Deanship of Research - Al-Quds University, 2025-06-01) Asma Nidal Mohammad Abu Odeh; Nour Anan; Hala Al-Dabus; Saja Zuheir Al-Barasi
The psychological situation in the Gaza Strip has significantly deteriorated as a result of the war, with the worsening humanitarian conditions contributing to the widespread emergence of mental health disorders within Gaza community. This crisis has been further exacerbated by the destruction of mental health treatment centers, depriving many patients of access to necessary care. Additionally, released prisoners suffer from severe psychological disorders due to the harsh conditions they experienced during their detention, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive and integrated mental health support services. Taafy is an innovative web-based platform that integrates human support and artificial intelligence, it aims to follow patients' cases and provide psychological counselling to mitigate the effects of war and prisons on mental health, in addition, provide training programs for specialists to increase their efficiency in dealing with war conditions and effects. The platform relies on Laravel technology and follows the Agile methodology to ensure flexibility and efficiency in development.
Communication Skills in Patients-Healthcare Providers Interactions: Learning from Patients Complaints
(Deanship of Research - Al-Quds University, 2025-06-01) Saja Quqas; Diana Sabarneh; Jana Harahsheh; Narmeen Abuayyash; Shaymaa Qashqeesh; Ayman Ikhlayel; Hussin Farajeen
This study aimed to assess the communication skills in patient-healthcare providers interactions: learning from patient complaints at Bethlehem and Hebron hospitals. The study used the quantitative approach, in a cross-sectional study, using a questionnaire, which is appropriate for the exploratory nature of the research. Therefore, three hundred sixty-eight health patients were stratified calculated, based on hospital and Governorate, and were selected using the convenience sampling method. The sample size was calculated using the sampling web of http://www.surveysystem.com/sscalc.htm, sample size calculator, with a margin of error of 1.11. To achieve this end, a 11-item scale was used to measure the communication skills in patient- healthcare providers interactions: learning from patient complaints at Bethlehem and Hebron hospitals, that was developed by the research team, based on Norouzinia et al. (1111) scale, taking into consideration the cultural appropriateness in the Palestinian society. A 1-point Likert scale (ranging from strongly agree to strongly disagree) was used to measure responses. The collected data were statistically analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS).
Knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward thyroid disorders among residents of Hebron Governorate
(Deanship of Research - Al-Quds University, 2025-06-01) Reem Abdullah Jahshan; Aseel Abdullah Daghameen; Khawla Jbreel Badareen; Rand Ali Fataftah; Haneen Nur
Background: Thyroid disorders represent one of the most prevalent endocrine disorders in the world. There are over 300 million individuals around the world affected by thyroid disorders. Despite their widespread occurrence, they remain considerably undiagnosed. Thyroid disorders are conditions that results from either over/under secretion of thyroid hormones as well as thyroid enlargement. If left untreated, they may lead to complications that impact the quality of life. There is clear evidence that the awareness of these conditions is remarkably low, which often results in delayed diagnoses and insufficient warnings about the complications of the disorders. In Palestine, there are no studies focused on thyroid dysfunction and its correlation with awareness, knowledge, attitudes, and practices.
Calcium in CKD patients
(Deanship of Research - Al-Quds University, 2025-06-01) Shahnd S. M. Abu-Karesh; Omer Othman Ali Othman; Hend Naguib
Background: Chronic kidney disease–mineral and bone disorder (CKD-MBD) significantly impacts morbidity and healthcare costs. Purpose and Objectives: This audit assessed compliance with KDIGO/KDOQI guidelines for calcium management in CKD patients at Alexandria Main University Hospital. Methods:  Cycle 1 (Baseline): Retrospective review (n=24) identifying gaps in calcium control, patient education, and care plans.  Cycle 2 (Post-Intervention): Prospective study (n=28) implementing structured education, dietary support, and medication adjustments. Results: • Cycle 1: 62% hypocalcemia, 12.5% hypercalcemia, 0% patient education. • Cycle 2: Normal calcium levels increased to 57% (p<0.05), patient education compliance reached 68%, and medication adjustments improved to 75%. Persistent hyperphosphatemia (40%) remained a challenge. Conclusion: Targeted interventions improved calcium management; however, m
The effect of Ramadan fasting on serum lipid profile in obese and non-obese humans
(Deanship of Research - Al-Quds University, 2025-06-01) Mohammad Shawabkeh; Mohammad Moraeb; Salwa Eqneibi; Rama Asaeed; Haneen Nour
The practice of fasting involves avoiding food and liquids for predetermined amounts of time in order to enhance essential bodily processes. While there are other forms of fasting, Islamic fasting and intermittent fasting are the most well-known. First, Islamic fasting: According to the lunar Islamic calendar, Ramadan, the ninth month, lasts roughly 29 to 30 days. All adults who practice Islam are required to fast throughout the holy month of Ramadan. Healthy Muslims abstain from all food and liquids during this time, and they also abstain from smoking tobacco every day from before sunrise till dark (21). There haven't been many studies on this topic recently, but primary care doctors can learn a lot from it about the physiological changes that occur in diverse groups with distinct Muslim rites. An eating habit that alternates between times of eating and fasting is known as intermittent fasting. It is distinguished by the fact that it mostly depends on mealtimes and places little limitations on the kinds of food that can be consumed or avoided. As a result, intermittent fasting usually refers to meal times rather than a plan.
Diagnostic yield and appropriateness of ambulatory electrography Holter monitor at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital
(Deanship of Research - Al-Quds University, 2025-06-01) Mohammed Al Habsi; Mohammed AlRawahi; Suhaib AlMashari; Tasneem AlRashdi; Adil AlRiyami
Background: Ambulatory Holter monitor was developed to allow remote ECG monitoring of patients with suspected cardiac arrhythmias. It was first introduced by the American biophysicist Norman J. Holter in the 1940s. In recent years, there has been significant advancements in remote cardiac monitoring. The choice of the ECG-monitoring modality depends on the presenting symptom, symptom frequency, and degree of suspicion of a life-threatening arrhythmia.
Touch and Tap Cooking System
(Deanship of Research - Al-Quds University, 2025-06-01) Reem Ihdeib; Mariam Sayareh; Mais Dababsa; Amal Al-Dweik
Background: Traditional cooking systems face challenges such as inaccurate temperature control and safety risks like burns and gas leaks, posing hazards to users. This project aims to develop a smart cooking system that enhances safety and efficiency by integrating modern technologies like sensors and remote-control capabilities.
The Effect of Fasting Status and Anticoagulant Types on Blood Zinc Determination
(Deanship of Research - Al-Quds University, 2025-06-01) Shayma Hussam Qaddomi; Arkan Abu Ramouz; Hadeel Ishaq Tbakhi; Mohammadk ziad Natsheh; Salah Al-Jubeh
Background: Zinc is one of the most important essential nutrients, it is Necessary for the activity of over 300 enzymes that aid in metabolism, digestion, synthesis of protein, RNA and DNA and help keep your Immune system strong. Zinc is second to iron as the most abundant trace element in the body. The research objectives are to assess the influence of diet on zinc content in healthy individuals, as well as the effect of a variety of anticoagulants and thrombolytic agents. Additionally, to investigate the impact of a variety of variables such as hair loss, BMI, gender and temperature storage.
Factors Influencing Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Relating to Asthma Management Among Pharmacists: A Cross-Sectional Study from Palestine
(Deanship of Research - Al-Quds University, 2025-06-01) Dala Daragma; Dima Masri; Haneen Joulani
Background: Asthma is a prevalent chronic respiratory condition characterized by airway inflammation and narrowing. In Palestine, physician-diagnosed asthma affects 3.8% of the population, with 8.9% reporting recent wheezing. Despite the availability of international guidelines, asthma-related morbidity and mortality remain high, often due to poor disease control, inadequate treatment, and incorrect inhaler use. Effective management requires collaboration among healthcare professionals, patients, and families. Drug-related problems (DRPs) further hinder treatment outcomes. Integrating pharmacists through pharmaceutical care (PC) services can significantly enhance asthma management by improving adherence, optimizing inhaler technique, and addressing DRPs. Prior studies support the positive role of pharmacists in managing asthma and other chronic conditions.
Comparative Analysis of the ESR Fast Detector Method Versus the Traditional Westergren Method and C-Reactive Protein Tests in Assessing Inflammation Among Palestinian Patients
(Deanship of Research - Al-Quds University, 2025-06-01) Heba Al-Salibi; Raed Shaheen; Rahaf Al-Shakhrah; Shurooq Al-Shaer
Background: The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is a widely utilized laboratory test that helps assess various inflammatory conditions by serving as an indirect measure of the acute-phase response. Typically performed alongside C-reactive protein (CRP) testing, which offers more immediate and sensitive detection of inflammation, ESR is valued for its simplicity and low cost. However, it lacks specificity and can yield inconsistent results, particularly when using modified Westergren techniques such as the ESR fast detector. This study aims to evaluate the correlation and comparison between the ESR fast detector and the traditional ESR reference method in Palestinian patients with inflammatory conditions.
The Prevalence and Correlates of Anxiety, Depression, and Symptoms of Trauma among Palestinian Adults in Gaza After a Year of War: A Cross-Sectional Study
(Deanship of Research - Al-Quds University, 2025-06-01) Majd Hamam; Mohamed R Zughbur; Yaser Hamam; Yara M Hijazi; Mohammed Hamam
Armed conflicts have a devastating effect on the civilian population, not only by direct violence but also by causing long-lasting psychiatric conditions, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety, as a result of exposure to traumatic events like displacement, loss of loved ones, and destruction of homes. The military attack on Gaza, which has been ongoing since October 7, 2023, compounds an environment of continuing fear, uncertainty, and loss, which markedly increases the prevalence of mental health disorders. This study aims to assess the prevalence of anxiety, trauma symptoms, and depression in the population of Gaza after one year of continuous war. This study aims to offer a comprehensive perspective on the mental health challenges experienced by the people of Gaza. Four hundred five participants compiled online self-reported measures to screen for symptoms of anxiety, trauma, and depression (GAD7; PCL-5). The survey was spread through social media and community networks. Findings revealed alarmingly high rates of moderate levels or higher of depression (72.7%) and anxiety (65%), and trauma symptoms (83.5%). A substantial proportion had lost a family member (45.7%), experienced a military siege (82.5), witnessed someone being martyred or injured (80.5), and reported losing their work due to the conflict (42.7%). Binary logistic regression analysis revealed that losing a family member and living in the northern part of the Gaza Strip were significantly associated with a moderate level of or higher depression and anxiety (p = 0.010, OR 2.395, p = 0.010, OR 2.395, p = 0.039, OR = 1.755, p = 0.027, OR =1.929, respectively). The simultaneous presence of any two of the three mental health conditions was seen to be statistically significant, with p-values for each pairwise association being less than 0.05. The study showed that the population of Gaza had an extremely high prevalence of diagnosable mental disorders, as determined through validated screening tools for anxiety, depression, and trauma symptoms. These findings have far-reaching consequences, highlighting the urgent and critical need for medical and psychiatric therapies to alleviate the significant psychological load that the prolonged conflict has placed on these people.
Alexithymia among Palestinian Cancer Patients; Prevalence and Risk Factors
(Deanship of Research - Al-Quds University, 2025-06-01) Sara Elyan; Nisreen Elyan; Bassam Banat
This study aimed to assess the prevalence of Alexithymia among Palestinian cancer patients in Bethlehem, Ramallah, and Hebron health care centers. The study approached the literature as a multi-dimensional phenomenon, which addressed both theoretical and applied research. The significance of this recent study is the first, which deal with this theme, to the author's knowledge, which in turn encourages other researchers to work on further research on this important issue. The study used the quantitative approach, in a cross-sectional study, using the sampling survey method. The questionnaire is appropriate for the exploratory nature of the research. Therefore, three hundred seventy-six cancer patients were stratified calculated and selected using the convenience sampling method. The sample size was calculated using the sampling web of https://www.idsurvey.com/en/sample-size-calculator/ , sample size calculator, with a margin error of 0.05.
معنى الحياة لدى الجامعيين في محافظة الخليل بالظروف الطارئة
(Deanship of Research - Al-Quds University, 2025-06-01) ميساء المشني; نبيل الجندي
هدف الدراسة :هدفت هذه الدراسة للتعرف على معنى الحياة لدى الطلبة الجامعيين في محافظة الخليل في الظروف الطارئة. المنهج والعينة: تكونت عينة الدراسة من 80) طالباً وطالبة من مجتمع الدراسة البالغ عددهم (8912) طالبا وطالبة في جامعة الخليل، واتبعت الباحثة المنهج الوصفي التحليلي وقد استخدمت الباحثة مقياسا لمعنى الحياة من إعدادها بناء على جملة من الدراسات السابقة، وتم التحقق إحصائيا من الخصائص السيكومترية للمقياس المستخدم في الدراسة، إذ تمتع المقياس بدلالات صدق وثبات مرتفعة في البيئة الفلسطينية.
Postpartum Depression in Palestine
(Deanship of Research - Al-Quds University, 2025-06-01) Duha Bani Odeh; Batool; Rama; Mays; Christina; Amanda Khalaf
Background: Postpartum depression (PPD) is a significant public health concern worldwide, with serious implications for maternal mental health, infant development, and family dynamics. Mothers in underserved communities, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, face additional challenges that may increase their vulnerability to postpartum depression, including limited access to healthcare, insufficient social support, and economic hardship. Despite its recognized impact, PPD remains underdiagnosed and undertreated in Palestine. This study explores the relationship between social support and the severity of postpartum depression symptoms among mothers in underserved Palestinian communities.
Performance Evaluation: Comparing Different Reagents for Calcium Level Measurement in Human Serum
(Deanship of Research - Al-Quds University, 2025-06-01) Aya Dajani; Dawod AlQadi; Deema Yaghmour; Sima Wari; Taleen Abu Gharbieh
Background: Calcium is a fundamental mineral in the human body, crucial for various physiological processes, especially in bones and muscles. Accurate measurement of calcium levels is essential for diagnosing and monitoring numerous medical conditions. In this study, we aimed to compare the performance of seven calcium measuring kits utilizing two different methodologies, Arsenazo-III and orthoCresolphthalein-complexone (o-CPC), using ELITROL-I human serumbased control material.
Antibiotic Resistance in Childhood Urinary Tract Infection in Palestine
(Deanship of Research - Al-Quds University, 2025-06-01) Shams Owdetallah; Esra Alhelale; Deema Zboun; Sara Alkhatib; Ibrahim Ghannam
Background: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common bacterial infections in children, with increasing antibiotic resistance posing a significant healthcare challenge. Current data on resistance patterns in Palestinian children is limited, hampering effective empirical treatment strategies.

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