PalStudent Scientific Research Journal

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A Successful Resection of a Giant Adrenal Myelolipoma Measuring 35x33x13 cm and Weighing 4600 grams: A Case Report & Review of Literature
(Deanship of Scientific Research/ Al-Quds University, 2023-03-08) Gharam Kiswani; Salsabeel Abu Khalaf; Mayar Idkedek; Riyad Salah Al-deen; Wadee Barbarawi
Background: Adrenal myelolipomas are rare nonfunctional tumors that are mostly asymptomatic and often found incidentally. They can be associated with other endocrine disorders like pheochromocytoma, and congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). Adrenal myelolipoma usually measures from 2-4 cm in diameter, although large tumors measuring more than 10 cm can be found.
Abjection in Shelley’s Frankenstein
(Al-Quds University, Deanship of Scientific Research, 2019-09-10) Abu Irayeh, Madleen
This paper analyzes Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein through Julia Kristeva’s theory of abjection. The main argument is that Victor Frankenstein and his creature experience and reflect abjection, which Kristeva defines as the breakdown of meanings when humans encounter fear or phobias. These fears and phobias are a response to what is avoided or not acceptable in the symbolic order (language, law, rules). Moreover, Victor’s first encounter with abject can be seen in his early childhood when he is separated from his mother. I will show that these fears can be seen in Victor’s phobia of the corpses of Clerval, Elizabeth and his mother as well as the creature’s self-loathing. First, the corpse elicits abjection through evoking the mortality of human beings. Upon beholding the corpses of his family, Victor suffers delirium, visual hallucinations, nightmares and fever all of which represent the corpse as the “utmost of abjection” (Kristeva 4). Second, the creature experiences abjection which can be seen in his thorough awareness of his deformity and defilement. The creature tries in vain to be accepted in the symbolic order. However, he realizes that he is the abject or the source of fear from which humans flee.
Alpha and Theta Band Power Alterations on EEG are Linked to Psychological, but not Somatic, Symptom Severity in Patients with Major Depressive Disorder
(Al-Quds University, Deanship of Scientific Research, 2022-05-11) Nawras A. Sawafta; Abdul-Rahman S. Sawalma; Mohammad M. Herzallah
Background: Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a serious psychiatric disorder characterized by low mood, loss of pleasure, and other psychological and somatic symptoms. Previous studies show that MDD is associated with changes in alpha and theta oscillations measured by electroencephalography (EEG). Yet, most studies did not differentiate between subsets of MDD symptoms and their relationship to different brain oscillations.
Antibacterial Activity of Plant Extract on Bacteria Species
(Al-Quds University, Deanship of Scientific Research, 2019-09-10) Abu Khalta, Alaa
Spices have been used for many centuries by various cultures to enhance the flavor and aroma of our foods. Our ancestors have also recognized the usage of spices in food preservation and in the treatment of clinical ailments. However, there are several reports on the development of antibiotic resistance in diverse bacterial pathogens (Gold, S.G. and Moellering, R.C.,1996). Gram negative bacteria such as Escherichia coli resides in human intestines and can cause lower urinary tract infections, cholecystitis and septicemia (Benhassaini et al., 2003; Benjilali et al.,1986). Different antibiotics exercise their inhibitory activity on different pathogenic organisms (Chanda and Rakholiya, 2011). Multiple drug resistance in human pathogenic microorganisms has developed due to indiscriminate use of commercial antimicrobial drugs that are commonly used in the treatment of infectious diseases. The development of antibiotic resistance is multifactorial; this includes the specific nature of the relationship of bacteria to antibiotics, the usage of antibacterial agent, host characteristics, and environmental factors. This study has forced scientists to search for new antimicrobial chemotherapeutic substances from various sources. However, the cost of production of synthetic drugs is high and they produce adverse effects compared to plant derived drugs (Abiramasundari et al., 2011).
Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activities of Onion Peels Extract and Fortification of White Wheat Flour to Prevent Health Hazard
(Al-Quds University, Deanship of Scientific Research, 2019-09-10) Karaki, Hadeel; Maswadeh, Iman; Abu Khalaf, Eman; Awawdeh, Ihsan
The oxidation eliminates health benefits of edible oil and cause many human hazards, which can be reduced by using natural antioxidant phenolic extracts. Yellow onion peel has been reported to contain the phenols of different structures. When olive oil is fortified by antioxidant’s extract from onion peels, it can decrease oxidation. This study aims to delay oxidation in virgin olive oil. The samples of onion peels and olive oil were collected and stored in a good condition until use. The onion peels were washed, dried and ground samples were introduced into the 80% aqueous ethanol (ethanol: water, 80:20 v/v) with a ratio of 1:30 (sample: solvent) for 30 minutes along with ultrasonic shaking. The extracts were separated from the residues by filtering through filter paper. The combined extracts were concentrated and freed of solvent under vacuum at 45oC, using rotary evaporator. The dried crude concentrated extracts were stored in a refrigerator (-4 ◦C) until needed The total phenolic content and antioxidant activity of onion peels extract will estimate it. The onion peel extracts will be added in three concentrations (300, 600 & 900 ppm) to the virgin olive oil. Treated and untreated (control) oil samples will be stored in the dark at ambient temperature (approx. 25C and 40C) for 80 days. The samples will be analyzed before and after the extract is added with acid value, Peroxidevalue, Lodinevalue, Anisidinevalue, K232 and k270. The yellow onion skin extracts have antimicrobial activity in relation to E. coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus as the method will determine. The extract showed antioxidant and antimicrobial activity; it was effective in preventing formation of hazardous compounds, and therefore increased shelf life of oils.
Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activities of Onion Peels Extract and Fortification of White Wheat Flour to Prevent Health Hazard
(Al-Quds University, Deanship of Scientific Research, 2020-09-10) Karaki, Hadeel; Maswadeh, Iman; Abu Khalaf, Eman; Awawdeh, Ihsan; Wadaah, Salam; Hamdan, May
The oxidation eliminates health benefits of edible oil and cause many human hazards, which can be reduced by using natural antioxidant phenolic extracts. Yellow onion peel has been reported to contain the phenols of different structures. When olive oil is fortified by antioxidant’s extract from onion peels, it can decrease oxidation. This study aims to delay oxidation in virgin olive oil. The samples of onion peels and olive oil were collected and stored in a good condition until use. The onion peels were washed, dried and ground samples were introduced into the 80% aqueous ethanol (ethanol: water, 80:20 v/v) with a ratio of 1:30 (sample: solvent) for 30 minutes along with ultrasonic shaking. The extracts were separated from the residues by filtering through filter paper. The combined extracts were concentrated and freed of solvent under vacuum at 45oC, using rotary evaporator. The dried crude concentrated extracts were stored in a refrigerator (-4 ◦C) until needed The total phenolic content and antioxidant activity of onion peels extract will estimate it. The onion peel extracts will be added in three concentrations (300, 600 & 900 ppm) to the virgin olive oil. Treated and untreated (control) oil samples will be stored in the dark at ambient temperature (approx. 25C and 40C) for 80 days. The samples will be analyzed before and after the extract is added with acid value, Peroxidevalue, Lodinevalue, Anisidinevalue, K232 and k270. The yellow onion skin extracts have antimicrobial activity in relation to E. coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus as the method will determine. The extract showed antioxidant and antimicrobial activity; it was effective in preventing formation of hazardous compounds, and therefore increased shelf life of oils.
Antipsychotic Medications: Adherence and Availability in East Jerusalem
(Al-Quds University, Deanship of Scientific Research, 2022-05-11) Fatima Hamad; Rahaf Jubeh; Maysa Nabulsi
Background: Schizophrenia is a severe illness affecting all life aspects of the patients including work, self-care and capacity to establish interpersonal relationships. It is known to affect about 1.0% of the population. Despite the fact that adherence to antipsychotic medications is the cornerstone in the treatment and prevention of relapse of the disease, non-adherence is a major problem among schizophrenia patients.
Arab and Islamic Anticancer Medicinal Plants from Tradition to Cellular Mechanisms: An in vitro study with THP-1 cell line
(Al-Quds University, Deanship of Scientific Research, 2022-05-11) Ruhuf Abu-Labdeh; Sawsan Abu Farha; Sondos Zakarneh; Abdel-Salam Kmail; Bashar Saad
Background: Trigonella foenum-graecum L (TF), Ocimum basilicum L. (OB), and Arum palaestinum Boise (AP), are traditional Arab herbal medicine has utilized it to treat a variety of metabolic and inflammatory illnesses.
Assessing Nutritional Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices and their Association with Body Mass Index Among a Group of Students at Al-Quds University
(Al-Quds University, Deanship of Scientific Research, 2020-12-22) Mansour, Iman; Njoom, Njood; Ghrayeb, Afnan; Agha, Hazem
Background: Good nutrition is essential for the growth, development and maintenance of health throughout life. Beyond the negative impact, malnutrition has on socio-economic development, lack of sufficient foods and quality food undermines the quality of health and the wellness of the population of all ages. Development in nutrition science has continued to show a linkage between health and nutrition since the 20th-century discovery on the consequences of malnutrition. Objective: The main objective of the study was to assess the nutritional knowledge, attitude and practices and their association with body mass index among a group of students from Al- Quds University. Method: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted through a self-administered questionnaire given to a group of students from Al-Quds University. The questionnaire was designed based on earlier studies to meet the study objectives. The questions were translated into Arabic. The Inclusion criteria in this study included Bachelors's students from different faculties at Al-Quds University. The exclusion criteria included academic staff, pregnant and lactating females, higher studies students and administrative. The data were analyzed by using the Statistical Package for the Social Software (SPSS) version 20 using descriptive statistics and Chi-square test. Results: Four hundred and nighty out of 500 distributed questionnaires were returned successfully. Over half (50.2%) of them were males. 66.3% of the participants had good nutritional knowledge, 61.8% had a positive attitude regarding healthy eating and 31.2% had good practices regarding healthy eating. The demographic character was not a significant predictor of nutritional attitude. However, there was a significant predictor between demographic character and nutritional knowledge and practices. There was a positive relationship at the level of significance p-value 0.005 or less and the alpha sign between attitude and practices, knowledge and attitude. Most of the students (53.35%) exhibited normal weight. Health professions and medical students had good nutritional knowledge compared to education science and business & economics students. Conclusion: The majority of the sample had good nutritional knowledge and practices. However, most of them shown a negative nutritional attitude regarding healthy eating. The university should develop a nutritional course to be taught as a university requirement course.
Assessing the Level of Efficiency of Translating Intertextuality in Mahmoud Darwish's Poetry: A Translation from Arabic to English
(Al-Quds University, Deanship of Scientific Research, 2022-05-11) Sondus Abu Rayyan; Shoroq Irjan; Taleen Rahil
Background: Translators constantly face the problem of preserving meanings when translating any text, let alone a text filled with intertextual references and underlying messages. This is because the process of translation is not only translating a text into another but also a process of translating cultures and religions and a process of decontextualization and recontextualization.
Assessment of Breast Cancer Diagnosis Process at Gaza Strip
(Al-Quds University, Deanship of Scientific Research, 2022-05-11) Reem Omar Yousef Alayan; Haneh Naeem Al Kahlout; Atef Masa’d Madina
Background: Breast cancer is the most frequent cancer in women worldwide, with an estimated one million new cases diagnosed each year and it is considered as the largest cancer-related cause of death among women worldwide.
Assessment of Exclusive Breastfeeding among Lactating Women Visiting Al-Remal Primary Healthcare Clinic in Gaza, Palestine
(Al-Quds University, Deanship of Scientific Research, 2019-09-10) Nassar, Rawan
Breastfeeding has many health benefits for both the mother and infant. Breast milk contains all the nutrients an infant needs for the first six months of life. Breastfeeding protects against diarrhea and common childhood illnesses such as pneumonia. It may also have long-term health benefits for the mother and child, such as reducing the risk of obesity in childhood and adolescence. Exclusive breastfeeding means that the infant receives only breast milk. No other liquids or solids are given – not even water – with the exception of oral rehydration solution or drops/syrups of vitamins, minerals or medicines. The results of the PMS study in 2013 show that exclusive breastfeeding in GS is 55%, meanwhile in WB it is 52.9%, and in the state of Palestine it is 53.9%. The World Health Organization estimates that around 220,000 children could be saved each year with exclusive breastfeeding. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that infants should be exclusively breastfed for the first six months of life to achieve optimal growth, development, and health. The Global Strategy for Infant and Young Child Feeding describes the essential interventions to promote, protect and support breastfeeding. In order to survive, grow, and develop properly, infants require the right proportion of nutrients. Breast milk is rich in nutrients and antibodies and contains the right quantities of fat, sugar, water, and protein. These nutrients are major prerequisites to the wellbeing and survival of the baby. When a child is exclusively breastfed, their immune system is strengthened, enabling it to prevent life-threatening illnesses like pneumonia and diarrhea amongst other infections. In fact, reports indicate that newborns who are not breastfed for the first six months of life are 15 times more likely to die from pneumonia compared to those who are breastfed exclusively for six months after birth.
Assessment of Factors Associated with Obesity among Gaza Secondary Schools’ Female Students in Palestine
(Al-Quds University, Deanship of Scientific Research, 2019-09-10) Al Najjar, Doa
Globally, obesity has increased among children, adolescents, and adults. At least 2.8 million people die each year worldwide as a result of being overweight or obese; mortality rates have shown to be proportional to the degree of obesity. Younger age groups are affected as demonstrated in nearly one-third of American college students who are overweight or obese. According to the WHO, 30–80% of adults and about 20% of children and adolescents in Europe are overweight. The situation in Asia is better; this is shown in the lower prevalence of obesity in Thailand and China. With obesity becoming an overwhelming global public health issue, there are a multitude of obesity-associated diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, and certain cancers. Although obesity in adolescence is less prominently associated with morbidity, it is nevertheless a strong precursor of obesity and related morbidity in adulthood. Adolescence has been identified as a critical period in the development of overweight/obesity patterns, with the transition to college being another potentially important period of risk for weight increase among young adults. Individual behaviors and environmental factors can contribute to excess caloric intake and inadequate amounts of physical activity. The current high rates of obesity have been attributed to, in part, increased snacking and eating away from home, larger portion sizes, greater exposure to food advertising, limited access to physical activity opportunities, and labor-saving technological advances (Duffey & Popkin, 2011; Piernas & Popkin, 2011; Powell et al., 2011;Sallis &; Glanz, 2009). Childhood and adolescent obesity have increased substantially in the past two decades raising concerns about the physical and psychosocial consequences of childhood obesity. In Palestine, the prevalence of obesity has been increasing for decades for both males and females in all age groups. It is about 18% in adult males and 26% in adult females.
Assessment of Quality of Life for Thalassemia Patients in Palestine
(Al-Quds University, Deanship of Scientific Research, 2019-09-10) Ashour, Fareeha
Thalassemia is the most common hemoglobin disorder in the world; it is a critical issue in the Arab world and Palestine. This pilot study was conducted to evaluate the effect of the disease and its comorbidities on Palestinian patients’ quality of life, their adherence to iron chelators and satisfaction to health services provided to them. A cross-sectional study enrolled 25 patients of thalassemia major and intermedia from different cities in Palestine. These patients were evaluated for their quality of life using short form-36 questionnaire that consists of two domains (physical component summary-PMC, mental component summary- MCS). The overall scores for each item and for each domain were obtained, ranging from 0 to 100. 0-20 reflect poor, 20-40 reflect bad, 40-60 reflect good, 60-80 reflect very good, and 80-100 reflect excellent. In general, the highest score appears for the social functioning (80.5 ± 4.49) and the lowest one was for physical role (52 ± 9.79). The scores of thalassemia major (PCS 70.80 ± 11.84, MCS 66.47±12.91) were higher than thalassemia intermedia (PCS 61.01± 11.83, MCS 63.74± 8.26). Patients who transfused 12 Units/Year (U/Y) (PCS 63.19 ±12.80, MCS 63.78±11.69) acquired lower scores than patients who transfused 12-24 U/Y (PCS 77.32 ±10.62, MCS 73.43 ±9.57). Adherent patients (PCS 69.28±15.19, MCS 71.20 ±11.58) acquired higher scores than non-adherent patients (PCS 60.32 ±12.52, MCS 59.23 ±9.93). Only 56% of patients were adherent to their iron chelators while 44% were non-adherent. Mean value of patient satisfaction was higher in the north (72.5± 14.19) compared to the south (32.14±30.11) of Palestine. There is a huge need to exert more efforts to improve the quality of life (QoL) for thalassemia patients, since thalassemia has an influence on QoL and limits the physical functioning, mental health, vitality, general health and other physical and emotional abilities. Strategies need to be implemented to increase the adherence to iron chelators and patient satisfaction. A follow-up study that includes higher number of patients from different cities in Palestine is needed.
The Association between Dopamine Score and Feedback-Based Learning in Healthy Undergraduates
(Al-Quds University, Deanship of Scientific Research, 2019-09-10) Arda, Yasmin
People vary in their cognitive performance. In particular, evidence shows that the neurotransmitter dopamine plays an important role in modulating feedback-based learning. Enhanced dopamine levels are related to better learning from positive feedback. Decreased dopamine levels mediate learning from negative feedback. Naturally-occurring differences in dopamine genes contribute to individual differences in feedback-based learning. In the brain, dopamine exerts its actions via receptors located pre and post synaptically. There are several genes involved in regulating the function of the dopaminergic system. Dopamine transporter (DAT1) and dopamine D2 receptor (DRD2) regulate and modulate dopamine signaling presynaptically, whereas the dopamine receptor (DRD1) and (DRD2) transmit dopaminergic signals postsynaptically. In our study, we created a dopamine score based on the effects of functional polymorphisms in the aforementioned dopamine genes to consider a pathway-based analysis of individual differences in dopamine functionality based on naturally-occurring polymorphisms. We recruited a sample of 423 healthy undergraduate students from Al-Quds University. All participants completed a battery of psychopathology tests. Furthermore, subjects were administered a computer-based probabilistic categorical feedback-based learning task that dissociated learning from positive and negative feedback. We found that the value of the dopamine score is positively correlated with the efficiency of dopamine neurotransmission. Subjects with higher dopamine scores showed better learning accompanied by the shortest response time for both reward and punishment. These results highlight the importance of examining the collective variations in the dopamine circuitry in the brain. Such scores can be significant in understanding the pathophysiology of psychiatric disorders that are related to dopamine such as major depressive disorder and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Association Between Inter-Arm Blood Pressure Difference and Chronic Kidney Disease in Type 2 Diabetic Patients
(Deanship of Sceintific Research/ Al-Quds University, 2023-03-08) Raghad Sweity; Khadeeja Fanoun; Tareq Jarrar; Bayan F. Alqtishat; Mohammad Abdelhafez; Suhair Ereqat
Background: The Palestinian society's rates of Diabetes Mellitus are among the highest worldwide rates. One of the common diabetes complications is diabetic chronic kidney disease. Diabetic chronic kidney disease is associated with inter-arm blood pressure difference, defined as a ⩾10mmHg difference in systolic blood pressure between the right and left arms as a predictor. Several studies have shown that inter-arm blood pressure difference is related to an increased risk of death and vascular problems in patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus.
Association between Iron Deficiency among School Students Aged 6-12 y and Their Learning Abilities in Rafah and Beit Lahiya Cities in Palestine
(Al-Quds University, Deanship of Scientific Research, 2019-09-10) Khalifa, Amal; Ghaben, Kafa
Zinc deficiency is believed to be widespread, especially in low income countries like Palestine. Approximately, 80% of school age children have zinc deficiency. It is reported that micronutrient deficiencies further debilitate health and learning by shunting growth and impairing intellectual development that may significantly reduce learning abilities. The exact burden of zinc deficiency among primary school children and its impacts on learning abilities is not known. Thus, there is an ultimate need to figure out the association between zinc deficiency and impaired intellectual development causing reduced learning abilities. Therefore, this study aims to determine the prevalence of zinc deficiency among primary school children in urban settings in North and South of Gaza Strip, to find an association with learning abilities, and to identify other possible contributing factors. A case-control study will be conducted in which 120 school-aged children will be recruited. Furthermore, they will be divided into a case group of subjects characterized by low zinc serum levels and a control group characterized by normal zinc serum levels. Data on anthropometrics measurements, biochemical analysis of zinc serum levels, and the learning abilities via school exams scores will be collected. All obtained data will be analyzed via SPSS version 22.
Association of protein supplements intake and renal function among athletes in Gaza strip, Palestine
(Al-Quds University, Deanship of Scientific Research, 2019-09-10) Dawoud, Mutaz; Shaheen, Mohammad; Hamash, Mohammda; Azzam, Adnan
Protein supplements are widely used among youth to increase muscle mass. It’s well established that using these supplements may increase the muscle mass. Meanwhile, studies indicate that increasing intake of protein has many side effects on renal function and increases renal solute loads. Few studies focus on the side effects of protein supplementations on renal functions, thus, there is a need to figure out this association in order to assess the impacts of protein supplement intake on renal function among athletes aged 18-30 years old in Gaza strip. A case-control study will be conducted on 40 subjects who attend sport clubs and take protein supplements, and 40 subjects who are on a regular diet with no protein supplements. A well- designed questionnaire was used to determine their dietary intake and eating habits, meanwhile, samples of serum were tested. All samples were also tested for Urea, Uric acid, Creatinine, Albumin and Total protein. Anthropometric measurements will be also taken. Obtained data will be analyzed by SPSS version 20.
The Average of Skill in Fixed Prosthesis among Dental Students in the University of Palestine in 2018-2019
(Al-Quds University, Deanship of Scientific Research, 2019-09-10) Othman, Lena
Prostheses are used to rehabilitate mastication, improve esthetics, and aid speech. Teeth require preparation to receive restorations. These preparations must be based on fundamental principles from which basic criteria can be developed to help predict the success of prosthodontic treatment. Among the fundamental principles of tooth preparation are the retention and resistance forms. Both can be achieved by providing a geometrical shape for the prepared tooth with minimal occlusal convergence angles (Hinnara S,2017). The convergence angle (CA) of a tooth preparation is the combined angle made by opposing axial walls when measured against the vertical long axis of the tooth. Textbooks in fixed prosthodontics often recommend an ideal convergence angle of approximately 5° (4–6°) and an acceptable range of 4–14° (Journal of Dental Education,2013). Dental students studying at the University of Palestine in previous years had difficulties in preparing teeth to achieve the generally recommended CA of less than 12°. This Experimental study aims to determine applicability of convergence angles among dental students in the University of Palestine in 4th and 5th year, and compare the reliability of the evaluation done by two investigators with that of AutoCAD. One hundred full crown casts will be selected randomly from preparations made by fourth and fifth year undergraduate students. Two images will be obtained from each of the 200 dies using a Canon 5D iii camera in which the die is placed B-L in one picture and M-D in the other. The pictures will then be scaled to the original scale. By means of AutoCAD 14, lines will be drawn parallel to either the traced axial walls in the gingival one third of the buccal and lingual surfaces or all proximal surfaces. These lines will then be extended until they meet to form an angle above the convergence angles in the images that will be measured using the software tools.
Awareness, Attitudes and Usage of Botox and Dermal Fillers Among Al Quds University Students
(Al-Quds University, Deanship of Scientific Research, 2022-05-11) Nuha Emour; Ibtihal Abu Alhawa; Maisa Nabulsi
Background: The world in all its aspects is constantly evolving and progressing, and so is the cosmetic world. Based on research, the use of Botox and filler injections is currently number one in the world for anti-aging cosmetic surgery. In Palestine, the use as well as the pros and cons of these cosmetics is still unveiled.

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