Medicine

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ADHERENCE TO CHILDHOOD VACCINATION SCHEDULES AND ITS BARRIERS AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS AMONG CAREGIVERS IN GAZA DURING THE WAR: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
(Deanship of Scientific Research - Al-Quds University, 2026-05-12) Samar Alshorbaji; Yazid Abu Sheha; Aya Obaid; Lina Okasha; Ali Abu Sweireh; Yazan Abu Daqqa; Meram Mohammed Ali Azzani; Ayda Helles
Background: The ongoing armed conflict in Gaza has severely disrupted the healthcare system, creating major challenges to the delivery and utilization of essential health services, including routine childhood immunization. Extensive damage to health infrastructure, population displacement, insecurity, and transportation barriers have significantly limited access to vaccination services. Despite historically high immunization coverage prior to the war, these disruptions have increased the risk of missed and delayed vaccinations, thereby increasing children’s vulnerability to vaccine-preventable diseases. In such fragile settings, adherence to vaccination schedules is no longer determined solely by caregiver knowledge or attitudes, but is increasingly shaped by conflict-related barriers and shifting sociodemographic conditions. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of adherence to childhood vaccination schedules among caregivers in Gaza during the war, as well as its associated barriers and sociodemographic factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 475 caregivers of children aged 0–24 months across multiple governorates in Gaza. Data were collected on sociodemographic characteristics, vaccine-specific adherence, overall vaccination adherence, and perceived barriers. Adherence was defined as each vaccine dose being administered within the recommended schedule, allowing a maximum delay of 30 days. Bivariate analysis using Pearson’s chi-square test was employed to examine associations between adherence and explanatory variables.
ADVANCED RESISTIVE EXERCISE VERSUS INTERIM RESISTIVE EXERCISE IMPACT ON BIOMARKERS OF BONE TURNOVER AND SUBSEQUENTLY SPINE HEALTH FOR ASTRONAUTS UNDERGOING PROLONGED SPACE FLIGHT: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS
(Deanship of Scientific Research - Al-Quds University, 2026-05-12) Basil Mohammed Ibdah; Abdallah M. A. Sayegh; Dana A. F. I. Farghaly; Medha Chakrapani; Sara I. T. Abdelnabi; Anahit Galstyan; Natalie Shulaia
Background: Spaceflight, once a distant dream for many, is potentially becoming a commodity with recent advancements. Microgravity-related spine abnormalities are expected to increase with the increase of spaceflights conducted by individuals. Objectives: To examine whether Advanced Resistive Exercise (ARED), Interim Resistive Exercise (IRED), or Bisphosphate and ARED (Bis+ARED) best maintained bone turnover biomarkers, minimizing subsequent effects on the spine during extended spaceflight Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, 86 studies were identified from PubMed, EmBase and SCOPUS. Studies had to be double-arm discussing ARED as the intervention with IRED and/or Bis+ARED as a comparison throughout multiple flight phases for calcifediol, calcitriol, and urinary calcium. Studies had to be in English; no limit on years was set. Meta-analysis of Mean Difference (MD) with 95% CI was conducted using STATA MP (v.17.0). A total of 3 studies encompassing 2 prospective cohorts and 1 clinical trial were examined in the quantitative comparison between ARED and IRED/Bis+Ared. With a total number of 52 participants.
ASSESSING THE VALIDITY OF A SINGLE-ITEM MEASURE FOR PROBLEMATIC INTERNET USE IN ADULTS: EVIDENCE FROM SAUDI ARABIA
(Deanship of Scientific Research - Al-Quds University, 2026-05-12) Juliann Saquib; Mohamed Ghaith Al Abdin; Mohamad Ayham Muqresh; Idris Sula; Fathin Ahamed Lebbe; Mansour Alsoghair; Abdulrahman Almazrou; Nazmus Saquib
Background: Internet addiction (IA) is a universal health problem that is linked with a negative impact on mental, physical, and social health, especially among the young population. The prevalence of IA is accelerating dramatically in Saudi Arabia; this surge contributed to an alarming rise in IA, particularly among adolescents. This study aims to determine the prevalence of IA among adults from four different cities in Saudi Arabia and to investigate the validity of a single-item self-rating measure against Young’s Internet Addiction Test (IAT). Moreover, to assess the association between the IA and mental, physical, and social health. Methods: A cross-sectional study of 1429 adult participants was conducted in four cities of Saudi Arabia (Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, and Buraidah) to assess internet use, lifestyle, and self-reported health by using a validated questionnaire. IA was measured using both single-item self-rating and the validated Young’s IAT scale. The study was conducted via online interviews with the participants by the senior students of Sulaiman AlRajhi University. A univariate logistic regression identified the significantly associated factors.
ASSOCIATION BETWEEN HABITUAL MSG CONSUMPTION AND COMPULSIVE EATING BEHAVIORS IN UNIVERSITY STUDENTS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
(Deanship of Scientific Research - Al-Quds University, 2026-05-12) Lina K. Al Jabry; Abdallah Shawwa; Rola Issa; Omar Abweh; Yomna Sarhan; Haneen Qashqeesh; Hazem Alagha
Background: Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a widely used flavor enhancer in processed foods that increases palatability and may influence eating behaviors. Although considered safe from a toxicological standpoint, its potential association with compulsive eating patterns remains unclear. University students are particularly vulnerable to irregular dietary habits and increased consumption of ultra-processed foods. Objectives: This study aimed to determine whether higher MSG intake is associated with increased food addiction and binge-eating severity among university students. It also examined the relationship between MSG consumption and food addiction symptom counts, assessed the presence of a dose–response effect, and evaluated these associations after adjusting for key confounders such as age, gender, body mass index, perceived stress, and academic year. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 555 Palestinian university students aged 18–30 years. MSG intake was assessed using a composite dietary exposure scale and categorized into tertiles (low, moderate, high). Food addiction was measured using the Yale Food Addiction Scale (YFAS), binge-eating severity using the Binge Eating Scale (BES), and perceived stress using the Perceived Stress Scale-4 (PSS-4). Logistic regression models were used to examine the association between MSG intake and food addiction diagnosis, while linear regression models evaluated associations with binge-eating severity and YFAS symptom counts. All models were adjusted for age, gender, body mass index (BMI), perceived stress, and academic year.
ASSOCIATIONS BETWEEN SHORT-FORM VIDEO USE, ADDICTION, COGNITIVE FUNCTIONING, AND MENTAL WELL-BEING AMONG HEALTH PROFESSION STUDENTS IN THE ARAB REGION: A MULTI-COUNTRY CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
(Deanship of Scientific Research - Al-Quds University, 2026-05-12) Lana M.A. Jamal; Khaled Alhashlamon; Alhareth M. Amro; Salahaldeen Deeb; Jafar Sayara; Saja Alkhdour
Background: Short-form video (SFV) platforms are widely used by young adults, yet evidence on their cognitive and mental health correlates in the Arab region remains limited. Objectives: This study aimed to examine associations between SFV use duration, SFV addiction, attention control, everyday memory functioning, and mental well-being among health profession students across multiple Arab countries. Methods: A multi-country cross-sectional online survey was conducted between November 2024 and February 2025 using convenience sampling. Validated scales were employed to assess SFV addiction, attention control, everyday memory functioning, and mental well-being (WEMWBS). Statistical analyses included group comparisons, correlation analysis, and multivariable linear regression adjusted for sex, academic year, field of study, country, residence, and daily SFV use.
BEYOND GRADES TO LEARNING ENHANCEMENT: DEVELOPMENT, IMPLEMENTATION, AND EVALUATION OF A CONVERSATIONAL AI AGENT IN MEDICAL EDUCATION
(Deanship of Scientific Research - Al-Quds University, 2026-05-12)
Background: Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming medical education by offering personalized, interactive learning. However, evidence on their educational impact remains limited. Objective: To evaluate the educational impact of a custom GPT agent for undergraduate medical students. Methodology: The intervention involved the development and deployment of a curriculum-aligned custom GPT-4 conversational agent supporting individualized learning in a 4-week pharmacology block in Year 2 of MBBS program at the College of Medicine, Sulaiman Alrajhi University in 2024-2025 academic year. A mixed- Methods: A sequential-explanatory design was conducted for its evaluation after the block. Phase 1 included a survey with the enrolled students (n=58) assessing usage, perceptions, and satisfaction, alongside a comparative analysis with two historical cohorts (2022–2023, n=33; 2023–2024, n=37). Phase 2 involved semi-structured interviews with nine volunteers. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS v28, and qualitative data via thematic analysis. Ethical approval was obtained prior to the start of the block. Informed consent was also obtained from all the students at the start of the block.
CAN MACHINES WRITE YOUR EXAMS? A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF GENERATIVE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE FOR MULTIPLE-CHOICE QUESTION DEVELOPMENT IN MEDICAL EDUCATION
(Deanship of Scientific Research - Al-Quds University, 2026-05-12) Ahmed M.J. Rabee; Abdulrahman Kharsa; Ammar Y.M. Saadawy; Mohammad Wasim Alnajjar; Ahmad M.A. Adi; Majid Ali
Background: Multiple-choice questions (MCQs) are essential for assessing medical education, whereas conventional item development is labour-intensive, inconsistent in quality, and often mismatched with evolving curricula. Generative artificial intelligence (AI), particularly large language models such as ChatGPT, has emerged as a promising tool for streamlining MCQ creation. However, evidence on the quality, psychometric properties, and educational effectiveness of AI-generated MCQs remains fragmented. Study Purpose/ Objectives: This review aimed to systematically assess the quality and effectiveness of generative AI in producing MCQs for medical education. Examining psychometric properties, content quality, cognitive level, resource efficiency, and user perceptions compared to human-authored questions. Methods: This systematic review followed PRISMA 2020 guidelines and was registered on PROSPERO (CRD420251153109). Six databases (PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, ERIC, and Europe PMC) were searched from January 2018 to November 2025. Two reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data, and assessed methodological quality using modified MERSQI and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.
CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE AND ITS IMPLICATIONS OVER MUSCULOSKELETAL SYMPTOMS IN WAR CONFLICT ZONE: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
(Deanship of Scientific Research - Al-Quds University, 2026-05-12) Mohammad F. Zhour; Mohammed Imad; Salah Wajdi Alaloul; Khalil Mostfa Alinaby; Seraj Hazem Alamassi; Hesham Fawzi Al Amassi; Mohammed Zughbur; Arslan Ahmed; Kashif Memon; Ashraf Joma Al Bayya⁵
Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis (HD) commonly experience musculoskeletal (MSK) symptoms that substantially reduce quality of life. In active conflict zones such as the Gaza Strip, where healthcare infrastructure is severely disrupted and war-related stressors are widespread, the burden of MSK symptoms is expected to be markedly amplified. Objectives: This multicenter cross-sectional study aimed to assess the prevalence of MSK symptoms and identify sociodemographic, clinical, and war-related predictors among HD patients in Gaza during ongoing hostilities. Methods: The study was conducted between April and May 2025 across five operational HD centers in the Gaza Strip. A total of 336 adult patients on maintenance hemodialysis for ≥3 months completed the Arabic-validated Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) through face-to-face interviews. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, clinical factors, dialysis adequacy, and war-related exposures were also collected. Chi-square tests and multivariate binary logistic regression were used to identify independent predictors of MSK symptoms.
GENDER-BASED DIFFERENCES IN MEDICAL STUDIES IN PALESTINE: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY OF CLINICAL STUDENTS AND INTERNS
(Deanship of Scientific Research - Al-Quds University, 2026-05-12) Malak Awad; Iman Abu Nawa; Abeer Radi; Salsabil Al-Shaieb; Jana Faroun; Peter Bael
Background: For many, studying medicine is a childhood dream; the idea of being a respected doctor is a cherished escapade. But what many don't realize is that compromises should be made along the road, a road that might seem idyllic from afar. Gender discrepancies are one of the least-discussed struggles for any gender, and they can lead to sacrifices along the way. These discrepancies could influence academic performance, clinical exposure, mental health, and specialty preferences; however, evidence remains inconsistent across our cultural settings. In Palestine, a conservative society, social norms may uniquely shape the clinical training experiences and opportunities among medical students. Our study aims to evaluate gender-based differences in academic, clinical, psychological, and career-related outcomes among Palestinian clinical-year medical students and interns. Methods: A multicenter cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 400 clinical-year medical students and interns from the five major Palestinian universities in the West Bank. Participants completed a structured questionnaire assessing their demographics, academic performance, clinical exposure, specialty preferences, and mental health using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21). Statistical analyses were carried out with ‘R statistical software” using chi-square tests, Mann–Whitney U tests, Kruskal–Wallis tests, and multivariate regression modeling.
GENOTYPE-PHENOTYPE CORRELATION AND THE SEVERITY OF NEUROLOGICAL MANIFESTATIONS IN PALESTINIAN PATIENTS WITH HYPERORNITHINEMIA HYPERAMMONEMIA HOMOCITRULLINURIA (HHH) SYNDROME: CASE SERIES WITH REVIEW OF PREVIOUSLY REPORTED PALESTINIAN PATIENTS
(Deanship of Scientific Research - Al-Quds University, 2026-05-12) Tolin Qtefan; Sulaf Daraghmeh; Mohammad Khalifeh; Mohammad Sawalmeh; Ahmad Itawy; Imad Dweikat
Hyperornithinemia–hyperammonemia–homocitrullinuria (HHH) syndrome (OMIM 238970) is a rare autosomal recessive urea cycle disorder caused by SLC25A15 gene mutations, leading to defective mitochondrial ornithine transporter. Clinical presentations include vomiting, encephalopathy, coma, developmental delay, intellectual disability, seizures, ataxia, pyramidal signs, and hepatitis-like attacks/coagulopathies. Diagnosis relies primarily on genetic testing, then on the biochemical triad of hyperammonemia, hyperornithinemia, and homocitrullinuria, which may be subtle or absent. This is a Case series of newly reported Palestinian patients and a review with comparison to previously reported ones. Clinical data were collected through structured interviews with patients, focusing on medical history, disease progression, performing a neurological examination, and laboratory and genetic testing from medical records, as it showed founder mutations, although patients belong to different Palestinian families. This research focused on pediatric patients to assess the importance of the early diagnosis, early management, and liver transplantation on neurological outcomes and their reversibility. Additionally, correcting metabolic status to enhance quality of life. This study focuses on the progression of neurological impairment, with particular focus on pyramidal tract signs, motor dysfunction, and speech delay. These results will help to give a better understanding of the correlation between the genotype and phenotype of the Palestinian patients as their associations are not fully deterministic due to the factors that affect outcomes beyond the primary condition. Finally, we reported new Palestinian cases despite the rarity of the disease. So, this will enrich the data about Palestinian patients and enhance the quality of knowledge, so practitioners can deal with such cases
GLOBAL PREVALENCE AND CHARACTERISTICS OF CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE IN CHILDREN: AN UPDATED SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS (2018-2025)
(Deanship of Scientific Research - Al-Quds University, 2026-05-12) Usra Ghanem; Mohammed Amer Kamel; Shankar Biswas; Mohamed Fayez Fouda; Hamid Ghanem; Mirna Hussein; Mohammed A Mahmoud; Muhammad M AbuKhalaf; Nofouz I.A. Maswada; George Alsous; Dalia Atef Abouda
Background: Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) is the most common major congenital anomaly, accounting for one-third of all serious birth defects. Despite therapeutic advances, it remains a leading cause of mortality and disability in children under five. Reported global prevalence remains highly variable, often influenced more by diagnostic infrastructure than biological factors. Objective: This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to provide a contemporary global estimate of CHD birth prevalence and evaluate how methodological and regional factors influence reported rates. Methods: Following PRISMA and MOOSE guidelines, we searched PubMed, Embase, Scopus, WOS, and Science Direct for observational studies published between January 2018 and August 2025. We included 37 studies encompassing 24,559,331 participants. Primary outcomes included birth prevalence per 1,000 live births. Due to extreme heterogeneity (I^2 = 100%), data were synthesized using random-effects models, meta-regression, and sample-size weighted medians.
INSIGHTS INTO MATERNAL AND NEONATAL COMPLICATIONS ASSOCIATED WITH CAESAREAN SECTION AMONG WOMEN: FINDINGS FROM A NATIONWIDE CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
(Deanship of Scientific Research - Al-Quds University, 2026-05-12) Oadi N. Shrateh; Razan Qamar; Areej A. Milhem; Malak Manasrah; Anas Abusabha; Mahmoud Hameda; Nadeen Qatto; Raghad Taha; Areen Amleh; Saja Rabee; Bara'Ah M. Huseein; Ebtehal Qaoud; Sarah Awad; Mashhour Naasan; Nor Azlia Abdul Wahab
Background: Cesarean section (CS) is the most common obstetric surgery, with rates rising globally and in Palestine. While lifesaving in complicated pregnancies, unnecessary CS may increase maternal and neonatal risks. Women’s awareness of these complications is essential for informed decision-making. This study aimed to assess Palestinian women’s knowledge of CS complications and indications. Methods: A nationwide cross-sectional study was conducted from January 2024 to February 2025 across governmental and non-governmental hospitals in Palestine. A total of 2007 women aged 10–49 years, currently pregnant or recently delivered, completed a structured questionnaire assessing sociodemographic factors, obstetric history, and knowledge of CS-related complications and indications. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-squared tests, and regression models.
KNOWLEDGE AND AWARENESS OF OCULAR ALLERGY AMONG UNDERGRADUATE UNIVERSITY STUDENTS IN PALESTINE; A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
(Deanship of Scientific Research - Al-Quds University, 2026-05-12) Haya Mustafa; Jana Faroun; Musab Dwaik; Yousef Mahmoud Barqawi; Sahar H.A. Jabari; Renad Atwan; Yahya Kayed AbuJwa’id; Salahaldeen Deeb; Alhareth M. Amro
Background: Ocular allergy (OA) is one of the most common disorders worldwide, affecting millions of individuals of all ages. Although common, it is often underdiagnosed, with knowledge gaps and misconceptions that can contribute to delayed care and inappropriate self-treatment. Limited research has examined awareness and understanding of ocular allergy among university students in Palestine. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the knowledge, awareness, and misconceptions regarding OA and its subtypes among undergraduate university students. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 564 undergraduate students from multiple universities in Palestine using a self-administered, structured questionnaire. Awareness of OA was assessed by five multiple-choice questions with a maximum score of 5, while knowledge was evaluated through nine multiple-answer questions and multiple-choice questions with a maximum score of 18. Of the participants, 408 (72.3%) reported being aware of OA, with no significant differences by gender or age. The mean knowledge score (out of 18) was 9.95 ± 3.12, with scores ranging from 0 to 18. The majority had moderate knowledge (345 students, 61.2% scored 9–13); however, students in health-related programs did not consistently achieve the highest scores. Social media and friends or relatives were the primary sources of information (20.7% and 20.6%, respectively).
KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDES, AND DETERMINANTS OF CERVICAL CANCER SCREENING UPTAKE AMONG WOMEN IN PALESTINE: A POPULATION-BASED CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
(Deanship of Scientific Research - Al-Quds University, 2026-05-12) Leen Ghanim; Abeer Barri; Haya Alsheqerat; Yasmin Bozia; Baraa Musa; Natalie Haj; Ibaa Mosleh; Shahed Bakhtan; Sura Manadre; Razan Massarwa; Al-Hareth Amro; Salah Aldeen Deeb
Cervical cancer is a malignant disease affecting the cervix and remains a major public health concern worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. It is primarily caused by persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) and is largely preventable through vaccination and early screening. Despite the availability of effective screening methods such as the Pap smear test, many cases are still diagnosed at advanced stages due to the asymptomatic nature of early disease. In Palestine, cervical cancer is among the most common cancers affecting women, with relatively low incidence but concerning mortality rates. Limited access to screening services, low awareness, and sociocultural barriers contribute to reduced uptake of preventive practices.
MELANOMA IN PALESTINE: FIRST REAL-WORLD OUTCOMES FROM A NATIONAL RETROSPECTIVE COHORT
(Deanship of Scientific Research - Al-Quds University, 2026-05-12) Elie G. Malki; George Alsous; Ahmad Nassar; Gessila Khalil; Laith Ishtayeh; Waleed Nabulsi; Adham Itbaisha; Marwan Qubaja; Farah Awad; Elias Lahham; Musa Y. Hindiyeh
Background: Melanoma in Palestine presents a significant public health challenge, with cancer being the third leading cause of mortality in the region as of 2020. The healthcare context is characterized by fragmented studies on cancer prevalence, a lack of a national registry, and constrained healthcare access due to regional instability, movement restrictions, limited molecular diagnostics, and resource limitations, particularly in Gaza. These factors contribute to delayed diagnosis and treatment access. The Palestinian Ministry of Health reported only 59 cases between 2017-2021, while GLOBOCAN (2022) estimated 24 cases per year in Palestine. Augusta Victoria Hospital (AVH) serves as the primary national tertiary referral center for melanoma cases across the West Bank and Gaza. Objectives: The primary objective of this study was to analyze and highlight the disease characteristics and real-world outcomes of cutaneous melanoma patients in Palestine, a region with significant resource constraints.
NON-INVASIVE NEUROMODULATION IN DRUG-RESISTANT PEDIATRIC EPILEPSY: A SCOPING REVIEW
(2026-05-12) Ayham Awad; Basil Abu Gheith; Ibrahim Zamara; Oday Hammad; Hadi Amro; Lama Mouharb; Osaid Tanbouz; Lara Ibrahim Ghannam
Background: Drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) in childhood is associated with a substantial seizure burden, neurodevelopmental morbidity, and limited treatment options, particularly when surgery is not feasible. Non-invasive neuromodulation has emerged as a potential adjunctive strategy; however, the pediatric evidence base remains fragmented across modalities and study designs. Objectives: This study aimed to map the extent, characteristics, and reported outcomes of the published literature on non-invasive neuromodulation for pediatric DRE. Methods: This scoping review was conducted according to a pre-registered OSF protocol (Registration DOI: 10.17605/OSF.IO/Q2D5Y) and aligned with JBI guidance and PRISMA-ScR reporting standards. The review focused on children and adolescents aged 0–18 years with DRE treated using non-invasive neuromodulation techniques, including transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), and transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS/taVNS). Primary studies with original clinical data were included. A total of 5,846 records were identified from PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science; 1,560 duplicates were removed; 4,286 records were screened; 19 full texts were assessed; and 16 studies were included.
PREVALENCE OF SUICIDAL RISK AND ITS ASSOCIATION WITH 2023 WAR EXPOSURE AMONG MEDICAL STUDENTS IN PALESTINE: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
(Deanship of Scientific Research - Al-Quds University, 2026-05-12) Raghad S. Razem; Mohammad F. Zhour; Shahd T. Natsheh; Rama Dweik; Malak T. Etkaidek; Shams Shahateet; Israa Neal Mezyed; Saleem Hossam Helles; Mahmoud S. Alhaddad; Beesan Maraqa
Background: Medical students are particularly susceptible to psychological distress, which may be intensified in conflict settings. Following the 2023 war in Palestine, concerns have emerged regarding the compounded impact of trauma exposure and academic stress on suicidality. Objectives: The primary objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of suicidal risk among Palestinian medical students and examine its association with direct and indirect war-related exposure, as well as mental health factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from October to December 2025 among medical students across universities in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. This abstract presents a preliminary analysis of a randomly selected subset (n = 510). Participants completed a structured bilingual questionnaire incorporating validated measures: the Suicide Behaviors Questionnaire-Revised (SBQ-R), Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), and a 13-item War Exposure Score.
PROPHYLACTIC UTERINE ARTERY EMBOLIZATION VERSUS CESAREAN SECTION ALONE FOR PLACENTA ACCRETA SPECTRUM: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS
(Deanship of Scientific Research - Al-Quds University, 2026-05-12) Omran MHD Marwan Shrebaty; Leen Alhamd; Moaz Safwan; Mariam Safwan Bourgeh; Batoul Aibour; Mohammad Fateh Martin; Mohammad Samir Mohammad Badr; Mohamed Tharwat Ghazala
Background: Placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) is a severe obstetric disorder characterized by abnormal placental invasion into the myometrium, frequently leading to massive hemorrhage, maternal morbidity, and the need for cesarean hysterectomy with consequent loss of fertility. Prophylactic uterine artery embolization (UAE) has been proposed as a uterine-sparing adjunct during cesarean delivery; however, its clinical effectiveness and safety remain uncertain. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate whether prophylactic UAE performed during cesarean delivery improves maternal outcomes in patients with PAS compared with cesarean delivery alone. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines and registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251266306). Electronic databases were searched through December 2025 for comparative studies assessing prophylactic UAE performed intraoperatively or immediately post-cesarean delivery versus cesarean delivery alone in patients with PAS. Primary outcomes included the rate of hysterectomy, intraoperative blood loss, and blood transfusion requirements. Secondary outcomes were length of hospital stay and intensive care unit (ICU) stay. Pooled risk ratios (RR) and weighted mean differences (WMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. Certainty of evidence was assessed using the GRADE framework.
QUALITY OF LIFE AND ASSOCIATED PREDICTORS IN PALESTINIAN MEDICAL STUDENTS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
(Deanship of Scientific Research - Al-Quds University, 2026-05-12) Mohammad Isbeih; Amer Rahhal; Hamid Ghanem; Nour Jaber; Shahd Idais; Ibrahim Amer Ghannam; Maha Nubani Husseini; Maha Nahal
Medical students experience tremendous stressors related to the demanding nature of medical education programs, which can negatively impact their health and overall quality of life (QoL). This particular study aimed to evaluate the QoL of medical students at Al-Quds University (AQU) in Palestine across various academic years and demographic variables, concerning physical health, psychological well-being, social relationships, and environmental conditions. A cross-sectional comparative study involving 522 medical students representing all six academic years was conducted from May to July 2024. QoL was assessed via the culturally adapted Arabic version of the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL-BREF) questionnaire. Demographic variables (gender, age, place of residence, number of bedrooms) and academic (academic year) variables were examined as correlates of QoL domains. Descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, and one-way ANOVA were applied, and linear regression was used to identify predictors. A p-value of ≤0.05 was considered statistically significant. Social relationships were the highest-rated domain (M = 3.58, SD = 0.862), followed by physical health (M = 3.38, SD = 0.721), environment (M = 3.28, SD = 0.638), and psychological conditions (M = 3.12, SD = 0.693). Gender differences emerged, with males reporting better physical health (p = 0.002). Linear regression further identified academic level as a key predictor of physical health (p < 0.001). Medical students at AQU have shown resilience in their social relationships. However, concerns arise from their lower psychological health and limited access to recreational opportunities. These findings highlight the importance of targeted institutional strategies that address mental health and foster supportive environments. Ultimately, this approach aims to enhance student well-being and create a more balanced and sustainable quality of life for students.
QUALITY OF LIFE DOMAINS AND CLINICAL PREDICTORS OF MEDICATION ADHERENCE IN PATIENTS WITH INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE
(Deanship of Scientific Research - Al-Quds University, 2026-05-12) Salem K. Qupp; Mohammad Alnees; Nizar Abu Hamdeh; Mohammad Masu'd; Yahya Z. Fraitekh; Duha Najajra; Abdalaziz Darwish; Nora I. Baraghithi; Monther M. Hroub; Aesha L.E Enairat; Shymai Abdallah; Anwar Zahran; Saleem Majadleh; Omar Abu-Khazneh; Yazan Hamdan; Ameer Mahamid; Omar Ayyad; Lilian Jofa; Ammar Barakat; Amir Haim; Ibraheem AbuAlrub; Omar Y. AbuAlayan; Qusay Abdoh; Idiberto José; Zotarelli Filho; Haitham Abu Khadija
Background: Quality of Life Domains and Clinical Predictors of Medication Adherence in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Medication non-adherence in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) increases relapse risk, emergency healthcare utilization, and costs. While quality of life (QoL) is known to influence adherence broadly, the independent contributions of specific QoL domains and clinical disease markers remain poorly characterized, particularly in the Middle East Objectives: This multicenter study aimed to determine whether specific health-related QoL domains, including bowel, systemic, emotional, and social, measured by the Short Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire (SIBDQ), and objective clinical and inflammatory markers independently predict medication adherence in adults with IBD during short-term follow-up. Methods: A multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2024 to June 2025 across ten major hospitals serving the Palestinian population in the West Bank. A total of 298 adults (18–65 years) diagnosed with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis were enrolled. Medication adherence was measured using a purpose-built, team-developed 14-item Arabic-language questionnaire (Cronbach's α = 0.70), yielding three ordinal categories: Low (0–15), Medium (16–25), and High (26–32). Health-related QoL was assessed using the validated SIBDQ (total and four-domain scores: Bowel, Systemic, Emotional, Social). Clinical predictors included comb sign, intestinal stenosis, fecal calprotectin at 3 months (FC-3), serum albumin, ESR, platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and comorbidities. The primary analysis used generalized ordered logistic regression (partial proportional-odds models; gologit2) with high adherence as the reference, applying LASSO-guided covariate selection and robust standard errors.

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