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Editorial

3 pages, 158 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Preface of the International Conference on Enhancing Clinical Nutrition in Palestine (ECNAD) and the Second International Conference on Applied Medical Sciences (ICAMS-II)

by Ihab A. Naser

Proceedings 2023, 88(1), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2023088016 - 13 Sep 2023

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Abstract

The ICAMS-II and ECNAD conference was held on 15–16 March 2023 at the Al Riyadh Auditorium for Celebrations and Activities at Al-Azhar University–Gaza (AUG), Gaza Strip, Palestine [...] Full article

Research

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1 pages, 154 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

The Impact of Oral Contraceptive Use on Selected Vitamins and Minerals in Women of Reproductive Age

by Ayman S. Abutair, Asmaa M. Meghari and Ihab A. Naser

Proceedings 2023, 88(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2023088001 - 24 Jul 2023

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Abstract

Childbearing women on combined oral contraceptive agents (COCAs) have been linked with the development of various diseases and possible deficiencies in serum micronutrients. This study aimed at investigating the vitamins and trace mineral changes associated with the use of COCAs among child-bearing healthy [...] Read more.

Childbearing women on combined oral contraceptive agents (COCAs) have been linked with the development of various diseases and possible deficiencies in serum micronutrients. This study aimed at investigating the vitamins and trace mineral changes associated with the use of COCAs among child-bearing healthy women in the Gaza Strip. A comparative cross-sectional study was designed. After informed consent was obtained, questionnaires, anthropometric measurements, and blood samples were collected from a total of 90 women of childbearing age (45 used different contraceptive methods, and 45 used COCAs). The mean hemoglobin, hematocrit, and red blood cells that obtained from the COCAs users group were significantly lower than those in the non-users group (p < 0.001, p = 0.073, and p = 0.047, respectively). There was a significant association between the use of COCAs and cholesterol level (p = 0.044). In addition, there was a statistically significant difference in the levels of homocysteine and vitamin B6 between the groups (p = 0.008 and p = 0.010, respectively). The present study indicated the possibility of micronutrient deficiencies in women on combined oral contraceptive agents. Full article

2 pages, 165 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

Is the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics/American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition Comparable to the Subjective Global Assessment for Assessing Nutritional Status among Critically Ill Patients?

by Shereen R. Zurob, Marwan O. Jalambo, Ayman S. Abutair and Mahmoud H. Taleb

Proceedings 2023, 88(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2023088002 - 26 Jul 2023

Viewed by 762

Abstract

Malnutrition is an important factor in the survival of critically ill patients. Detailed nutrition assessment enables the early identification of malnourished patients and improves patient outcomes. To determine the prevalence of malnourished critically ill patients and assess the criterion validity of the Academy [...] Read more.

Malnutrition is an important factor in the survival of critically ill patients. Detailed nutrition assessment enables the early identification of malnourished patients and improves patient outcomes. To determine the prevalence of malnourished critically ill patients and assess the criterion validity of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics/American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (AND/ASPEN) among critically ill Palestinian patients against the reference standard for malnutrition, the Subjective Global Assessment (SGA), a cross-sectional study was conducted among 100 critically ill patients with a mean age of 43.9 ± 16.39 who were admitted to the ICU in main governmental hospitals in Palestine, from July 2020 to November 2020. The sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV of the AND-ASPEN were analyzed against the SGA. ROC curve analysis was used to obtain the AUC and suitable optimal cutoff values for AND-ASPEN. According to the SGA and AND-ASPEN, 71% and 54% of the participants were malnourished, respectively. The sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV for the AND-ASPEN were 0.718, 0.896, 0.944, and 0.565, respectively. The AUC of the AND-ASPEN was comparable to the SGA (0.859). The prevalence of malnutrition remains high among critically ill patients. The validity of the AND-ASPEN is comparable to the SGA, and the use of the AND-ASPEN to assess the nutritional status of this group is proposed, as it is simpler and more efficient. Underdiagnosis of malnutrition can be prevented, possibly reducing the prevalence of malnourished critically ill patients and improving the quality of the nutritional care process practiced in Palestine. Full article

2 pages, 156 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

Relationship between Level of Anxiety and Insomnia with Fast and Junk Food among University Students in Gaza Strip, Palestine

by Farah I. Al-Faleet and Marwan O. Jalambo

Proceedings 2023, 88(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2023088003 - 27 Jul 2023

Viewed by 1009

Abstract

Diet is an important cause that may affect the course of non-infectious diseases. Students may be subject to stressors, anxiety, insomnia, and bad nutritional habits. The present study was conducted to investigate the relationship between the levels of anxiety, insomnia, fast and junk [...] Read more.

Diet is an important cause that may affect the course of non-infectious diseases. Students may be subject to stressors, anxiety, insomnia, and bad nutritional habits. The present study was conducted to investigate the relationship between the levels of anxiety, insomnia, fast and junk food among Gazan Palestinian university students. This cross-sectional study of university students of both genders from different majors at Al-Azhar University and Palestine Technical College used random sampling techniques. After receiving ethical approval, data were collected using a validated questionnaire. The generalized Anxiety Disorder Questionnaire (GAD-7), Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), and Glasgow Sleep Effort Scale (GSES) were used to assess the nature and severity of anxiety. A short-self-administered questionnaire for fast and junk food was also used. More than 80% of participants had anxiety. In addition, 75.9% of participants had insomnia. This study showed significant positive associations between anxiety level and insomnia, and there was a statistically significant positive correlation between anxiety level insomnia fast and junk food consumption. The findings indicated that there was no statistically significant difference between the socioeconomic, demographic, and educational characteristics of the respondents with regard to anxiety and insomnia. Moreover, there was no statistically significant difference between these characteristics and the consumption of fast and junk food. It was determined that anxiety level might increase as insomnia level increases. In addition, both anxiety and insomnia might increase when the consumption of fast and junk food increases. Full article

2 pages, 156 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

Effects of Vitamins C and E on Oxidative Stress among Diabetes Mellitus Type 2 Patients in Gaza City, Palestine

by Eman Seyam, Marwan O. Jalambo and Mohammed Shubair

Proceedings 2023, 88(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2023088004 - 28 Jul 2023

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Abstract

Oxidative stress is defined as the excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species in the presence of diminished antioxidant substances. It has been shown that oxidative stress disrupts the normal glucose metabolism in type 2 diabetic patients. The authors [...] Read more.

Oxidative stress is defined as the excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species in the presence of diminished antioxidant substances. It has been shown that oxidative stress disrupts the normal glucose metabolism in type 2 diabetic patients. The authors aimed to study the effect of vitamins C and E on oxidative stress among diabetes mellitus Type 2 patients in Gaza City, Palestine. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of vitamins C and vitamin E as an adjunctive therapy in reducing the Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate, Malondialdehyde (MDA), hs-CRP, and Total cholesterol in the sera of type 2 diabetes mellitus patients in Gaza City. To achieve this study, one hundred and sixty-eight (168) diabetic patients were selected from Gaza City. The diabetic patients (117) were treated with anti-diabetic agents such as metformin and divided into three groups; the first group was a control group that received anti-diabetic agents metformin only; the second group received vitamin C (1000 mg) along with metformin; whereas the third group received vitamin C (1000 mg) and vitamin E (400 mg), together along with metformin. All patients were followed up for 3 months. The results showed more significant reductions in the MDA, Hs-CRP, and cholesterol levels among the patients who used vitamin C and combinations of vitamins C and E compared to those of the control group after 3 months. The reduction of MDA is larger in the vitamin C and E group than it was in the vitamin C group alone, and the reduction in cholesterol was similar in both groups, but there was not any improvement in the level of ESR. The study revealed that the use of antioxidants like vitamin C and vitamin E can decrease the severity of oxidative stress and decrease the level of inflammatory markers, and it improves the total cholesterol level, so antioxidants can improve diabetes mellitus and its complications. Full article

2 pages, 158 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

Effect of Manuka Honey Eye Drops among Patients Diagnosed with Adenoviral Keratoconjunctivitis in The Gaza Strip

by Aysha F. Alagha, Riad El-Qidra, Marwan O. Jalambo and Bassam Alhabibi

Proceedings 2023, 88(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2023088005 - 28 Jul 2023

Viewed by 2524

Abstract

A large amount of research has established that honey has potent antibacterial activity. However, the sensitivity of infection-causing viral species to honey has been scarcely studied. This study was designed to evaluate the effect of Manuka Honey eye drops among patients diagnosed with [...] Read more.

A large amount of research has established that honey has potent antibacterial activity. However, the sensitivity of infection-causing viral species to honey has been scarcely studied. This study was designed to evaluate the effect of Manuka Honey eye drops among patients diagnosed with adenovirus conjunctivitis. Sixty-one patients with adenovirus keratoconjunctivitis were recruited in this quasi-experimental, multi-center study. All eligible subjects were randomly categorized into two groups: the first group was the control group, which was treated with steroids (conventional treatment), while the second group was the intervention group, which was treated with Manuka Honey drops at a concentration of 16.5% four times per day with conventional treatment (steroids). Symptoms in both groups, as well as the total ocular symptom score (TOSS), were compared. The results of the experimental group demonstrate the effectiveness of Manuka Honey eye drops in relieving symptoms of adenovirus keratoconjunctivitis. The findings of this study indicated that there was a statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of the number of days they had adenovirus keratoconjunctivitis (p > 0.001). Also, the mean itchy, redness, and tearing scores on day 4 among the patients in the intervention group were less than those in the control group (p > 0.001). In addition, the TOSS score on day 4 and day 8 among the patients in the intervention group was extremely lower than those in the control group (p > 0.001). The results of this study have shown important improvements in the symptoms of adenovirus keratoconjunctivitis. Our findings showed positive results within a short period, meaning that our results suggest that Manuka honey eye drops show promise as an adjunct natural treatment and that prescribing them in conjunction with conventional steroids can help alleviate the symptoms of adenovirus keratoconjunctivitis. Full article

2 pages, 158 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

Assessment of Quality of Life in Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy Treatment Using EORTC QLQ-C30 Questionnaire

by Samah E. EL-Najjar, Ihab A. Naser and Kanan M. AL-Wahidi

Proceedings 2023, 88(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2023088006 - 31 Jul 2023

Viewed by 1439

Abstract

Cancer is a challenge for the majority of the population’s health-related quality of life (HRQoL), compromising their physical health and emotional well-being. This study aimed to assess the QoL, differentiate QoL among different groups, and explore its association with other factors in adult [...] Read more.

Cancer is a challenge for the majority of the population’s health-related quality of life (HRQoL), compromising their physical health and emotional well-being. This study aimed to assess the QoL, differentiate QoL among different groups, and explore its association with other factors in adult cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy treatment. All adult newly diagnosed cancer patients from the Oncology Department at the European Gaza Hospital (EGH) were eligible for participation in an ongoing prospective short cohort study. The European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core30 (EORTC QLQ-C30 was used to assess QoL in cancer patients after the completion of the chemotherapy regimen. A simple, self-administered assessment tool, Patient Neurotoxicity Questionnaire (PNQ) which is increasingly used in clinical praxis with significantly positive results has been used. The mean age of patients was 48.58 years. The global health status and functional scales, in most domains, were low, while the symptoms scales were moderate-to-high for most items, showing worse QoL. Fatigue and pain were the most disturbing symptoms. Global health and social functioning were better in over-weight and obese patients (p < 0.05). Malnourished patients and patients at risk of malnutrition showed a worse level of global health status in comparison to well-nourished patients (p = 0.049). Cancer stage significantly affects QoL (p < 0.05). The correlation of functional scales with global health status was found higher; the Spearman correlation r > 0.30 and showed a significant positive relationship (p < 0.05). Patients with a high PNQ score (more severe chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) symptoms) reported a worse global quality of life and worse physical, work, emotional, cognitive, and social functioning compared with those with a low PNQ score. Cancer patients had a worse QoL regarding overall global health status as well as functional and symptom scales. CIPN is associated with HRQoL in cancer patients. Future studies should focus on understanding the mechanisms underlying CIPN so targeted interventions can be developed to reduce the impact of CIPN on patients’ lives. Full article

1 pages, 143 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

Assessment of Nutritional Status among Adult Hemophilia Patients in Gaza Strip

by Ibrahim M. Ashour

Proceedings 2023, 88(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2023088007 - 1 Aug 2023

Viewed by 1228

Abstract

Congenital Hemophilia is an X-linked bleeding disorder caused by a deficiency of coagulation factor VII (in hemophilia A) or factor IX (in hemophilia B). The deficiency is the result of mutations of respective clotting factor genes. In the Gaza strip, 124 cases of [...] Read more.

Congenital Hemophilia is an X-linked bleeding disorder caused by a deficiency of coagulation factor VII (in hemophilia A) or factor IX (in hemophilia B). The deficiency is the result of mutations of respective clotting factor genes. In the Gaza strip, 124 cases of hemophilia were observed. The main treatment for those patients is replacement of the missing factors along with supportive measures. To our knowledge, no studies were conducted in the Gaza Strip concerning nutritional status in hemophilic patients. A descriptive study that utilized a questionnaire to assess nutritional status among 27 adult male hemophilic patients managed at the Hemophilia and Thalassemia Clinic in the European Gaza Hospital from March to April 2019 was conducted. All the patients fully answered the questionnaires that included sociodemographic, socioeconomic, medical, nutritional and anthropometric characteristics. The diet diversity score for all the participants patients using mean (SD) was the following: Starches, 9.8 (0.769); Beverages, 9.6 (1.000); Vegetables, 7.8 (1.545); Fruits, 6.7 (2.215); Snacks, 6.3 (3.667); Legumes, 6.8 (1.459); Poultry, 5.0 (0.337); Meat, 4.9 (1.154); Eggs, 4.7 (1.846); Grains, 4.5 (2.375); Dairy Products, 4.2 (2.991); Soups, 4.1 (2.100); Fish, 3.8 (2.088); Nuts, 3.7 (2.270); and Sweeteners, 3.4 (2.857). Notably, only 17 patients (63.0%) were aware of the current dietary reference intakes. Moreover, most participants acknowledged the importance of providing nutritional patient education. In addition to medical treatment, hemophilic patients need to improve their nutritional status. This can be achieved through education and increase in patient awareness. Full article

2 pages, 158 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

The Relationship between High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein and Metabolic Syndrome and Its Association with Lifestyle Factors among Physicians in the Gaza Strip

by Israa J. Al Najjar, Marwan O. Jalambo and Mahmoud H. Taleb

Proceedings 2023, 88(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2023088008 - 1 Aug 2023

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Abstract

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is considered the most significant global health issue that is defined as constellations of interrelated cardiometabolic disorders including central obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and hypertension. Studies indicated that high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) has a role in the development of MetS [...] Read more.

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is considered the most significant global health issue that is defined as constellations of interrelated cardiometabolic disorders including central obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and hypertension. Studies indicated that high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) has a role in the development of MetS and vice versa. No studies illustrated this association among physicians in the Gaza Strip, Palestine. The aim of this paper is to determine the prevalence of MetS among physicians and to identify the relationship between hs-CRP and MetS and lifestyle factors. A cross-sectional study design was adopted among healthy physicians in MOH, Gaza Strip. Data were collected from 300 participants (48.7% female and 51.3% male); they did not suffer from chronic disease or current infection or inflammation. Demographic data, anthropometrics, blood pressure, biochemical measurements, and lifestyle data were obtained from all participants. NCEP ATP III criteria were used to diagnose MetS. The majority of the study population (67.4%) were having high BMI > 25 kg/m². 63.0% with low HDL. The prevalence of MetS was 34.0%, and about half of the remaining participants had two diagnostic criteria for MetS. There were statistically significant differences in gender and age with MetS (p < 0.05). Also, the finding indicated a significant mean difference in hs-CRP and MetS groups. Moreover, there were no statistically significant differences between the MetS group in all food group consumption scores except in the fruits group, moreover, a significant correlation between hs-CRP and FBS, TG, BMI, and WC in females. The prevalence of MetS among healthy physicians was more than a third of the participants. More importantly, this study indicated a relationship between hs-CRP in participants with MetS. In addition, participants with MetS were found to have higher BMI, WC, WHR, FBG, TG, and lower HDL than non-MetS, and there was a relationship between the last components and hs-CRP. Full article

2 pages, 157 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

Serum Antioxidant (Vitamin E and Glutathione) in Pre-Senile Cataract Patients and healthy control in Gaza, Palestine: A Case–Control Study

by Sujod F. Aljazzar, Marwan O. Jalambo and Kanan M. Wahedy

Proceedings 2023, 88(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2023088009 - 3 Aug 2023

Viewed by 880

Abstract

Pre-senile cataract is the opacity of the crystalline lens of the eye before the age of 50 years. Recently, the incidence of early-onset cataracts has been on the rise. It is closely linked with oxidative stress and antioxidant deficiency. To identify the relationship [...] Read more.

Pre-senile cataract is the opacity of the crystalline lens of the eye before the age of 50 years. Recently, the incidence of early-onset cataracts has been on the rise. It is closely linked with oxidative stress and antioxidant deficiency. To identify the relationship between serum antioxidant levels (vitamin E and glutathione) and the occurrence of pre-senile cataract, to measure serum vitamin E and glutathione levels in patients with pre-senile cataract and compare them with those of people without a cataract, to determine the effect of dietary habits and socioeconomic status on pre-senile cataract patients and identify the relationship between anthropometric measurements and occurrence of pre-senile cataract, a retrospective case–control study was conducted at an eye hospital in Gaza City. The study consisted of 44 cases of pre-senile cataract patients and 44 cases of region-, sex-, and age-matched controls. Data collection was performed by direct methods that included anthropometric measurement and serum vitamin E and glutathione levels and indirect methods through a structured interview questionnaire. SPSS software version 24 was used to analyze the data. Regarding serum antioxidant status, serum vitamin E and glutathione levels in pre-senile cataract patients were equal to those of healthy controls. The majority of patients were illiterate, married women. An increase in body weight and obesity had a strong association with pre-senile cataract formation. Concerning dietary factors, a high intake of fruits, meat and meat products, starchy food (grains), and healthy snacks was inversely correlated with pre-senile cataract. A direct relationship between vitamin E and glutathione was found. The study concluded that pre-senile cataract is a multifactorial disease and many risk factors (dietary factors, socio-economic factors, medical factors, and anthropometrics factors) play a role in pre-senile cataract formation. Full article

2 pages, 146 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

Zinc Deficiency and Subsequent Reduction in Insulin-like Growth Factor I Are Risk Factors for Stunting among School-Aged Children in the Gaza Strip, Palestine

by Eman Elian, Ihab A. Naser and Ihab M. Almasri

Proceedings 2023, 88(1), 10; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2023088010 - 10 Aug 2023

Viewed by 819

Abstract

Stunting is a major public health problem in low- and middle-income countries because of its association with increased risk of mortality during childhood. To investigate whether zinc deficiency and insulin-like growth factor I are associated with the prevalence of stunting among school-aged children, [...] Read more.

Stunting is a major public health problem in low- and middle-income countries because of its association with increased risk of mortality during childhood. To investigate whether zinc deficiency and insulin-like growth factor I are associated with the prevalence of stunting among school-aged children, a cross-sectional study was conducted in which 141 pupils from the first grade were recruited through a multistage cluster sampling technique. The blood sample was drawn from the pupils to analyze zinc, insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1), hemoglobin (HG), albumin, and C-reactive protein (CRP). Height, weight, and body mass index (BMI) were measured whereas height for age Z-score was computed to assess stunting. The study revealed that the prevalence of stunting among the study population is 34% out of which 27.7% and 6.4% exhibit mild and moderate stunting, respectively. The prevalence of zinc deficiency is almost 5% among the pupils. There is a positive association between serum zinc and IGF-1 (p = 0.013), and the results of the Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) illustrate that as the serum zinc level increases by one unit, the IGF-1 level increases by 0.61 cm. In addition, the final model of the MLR analysis shows a negative correlation between being female and height. By investigating the direction of the association between age and IGF-1 and height, it was clear that a positive correlation exists (b = 0.20, 0.03), respectively. This study shows a higher rate of stunting among first-grade children in the Gaza Strip and might be attributed to many factors such as gender, age, household size, and IGF-1. Full article

2 pages, 146 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

The Effect of Diet Planning on Hemoglobin A1c in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients: A Sample from the UNRWA Clinic in Gaza Field

by Sahar M. Abuhajar

Proceedings 2023, 88(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2023088011 - 22 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 815

Abstract

Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) may need proper counselling to bring about a real change in their lifestyle regarding a proper food intake, proper weight reduction, management of hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), and commitment to intake drugs. To determine the effect of [...] Read more.

Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) may need proper counselling to bring about a real change in their lifestyle regarding a proper food intake, proper weight reduction, management of hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), and commitment to intake drugs. To determine the effect of diet planning on the hemoglobin A1c among T2DM patients. One group intervention involved 53 uncontrolled T2DM cases with a previous HbA1c reading of more than 7% was objectively selected from the diabetic patients registered at UNRWA in Al-Bureij health center. The group received a weekly educational session with counselling to improve their dietary habits and change their lifestyle. The counselling sessions continued for three months. Venous blood was collected to measure HbA1c before and after the intervention. Body mass index (BMI) was also measured before and after the counselling. A paired t-test was used to detect significant changes in the parameters. The number of female patients was 31 (58.49%). The mean (SD) age was 57.69 (9.01). The age ranged from 34 to 79 years. Comparing the results before and after the intervention, 83% of patients had improved levels of HbA1c. The mean (SD) of HbA1c “before” was 8.83 (1.48), while the mean (SD) of HbA1c “after” was 7.84 (1.49); (p < 0.001). In addition, about 40% of patients had an HbA1c less than 7% at the end of the study. On the other hand, 71% of patients exhibited an improvement in the measurement of BMI; however, no major physical changes were observed in BMI. A provision of a proper health education, diet counselling, lifestyle modification, and regular monitoring will improve the BMI and enhance glycemic control, which will prevent complications among T2DM patients. Thus, each patient must be monitored according to the lifestyle and dietary habits of health service providers. Full article

2 pages, 146 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

Assessment of Nutrients Intake and Dietary Consumption Patterns among Autistic Children in Gaza City, Palestine

by Rose A. Qishawi, Mai Ramadan and Sameer Radi

Proceedings 2023, 88(1), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2023088012 - 25 Aug 2023

Viewed by 1105

Abstract

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that may affect the nutritional management of children. This study was conducted to: (1) describe the effects of sociodemographic factors on the nutritional status of autistic children in Gaza; (2) estimate macro- and micronutrients dietary intake of autistic [...] Read more.

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that may affect the nutritional management of children. This study was conducted to: (1) describe the effects of sociodemographic factors on the nutritional status of autistic children in Gaza; (2) estimate macro- and micronutrients dietary intake of autistic children; (3) evaluate nutrients intake adequacy; (4) predict the prevalence of iron deficiency anemia and serum zinc deficiency among autistic children; (5) assess anthropometric indicators among autistic children; and (6) predict factors associated with iron deficiency anemia, serum zinc deficiency, and stunting among the autistic studied sample. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 110 purposively selected autistic children who attended three rehabilitation centers in Gaza city from March to December 2018. The nutritional status of all participants was assessed using anthropometric data and biochemical assessment, and all parents filled out the interview and dietary questionnaires. An inadequate daily intake of some micronutrients such as calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, vitamin A, and vitamin C was found among autistic children in Gaza. The daily intake of calcium was inadequate by all examined autistics. The prevalence of low serum zinc level and iron deficiency anemia was high at 55.5% and 49.1% among autistics, respectively. The prevalence of stunting was 11.9%. Statistically significant relations between nutritional inadequacy, anemia, and serum zinc level were found with economic status and eating behaviors. Autistics in the Gaza Strip have several medical and nutritional problems. It is imperative to conduct a detailed individualized nutritional assessment of those nutritionally vulnerable populations, which may decrease co-morbidities in addition to nutritional education programs. Full article

2 pages, 165 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

Pre-Pregnancy Weight and Weight Gain During Pregnancy and Their Effect on Child Birth Weight in Gaza Governorate: Cross-Sectional Study

by Lama Alkhoudary, Linda Shaheen, Yasmeen Alsourani, Diana Naser, Sahar M. Abuhajar and Mohammed S. Ellulu

Proceedings 2023, 88(1), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2023088013 - 28 Aug 2023

Viewed by 1049

Abstract

Excessive gestational weight gain (GWG), is a risk factor for several adverse pregnancy outcomes, including macrosomia or low birth weight. Diet and lifestyle factors are two of the few modifiable risk factors identified. However, most dietary assessment methods are impractical for use in [...] Read more.

Excessive gestational weight gain (GWG), is a risk factor for several adverse pregnancy outcomes, including macrosomia or low birth weight. Diet and lifestyle factors are two of the few modifiable risk factors identified. However, most dietary assessment methods are impractical for use in maternal care. This study aimed to identify weight gain during pregnancy and its effect on child birth weight in the Gaza governorate. Interviewer questionnaires, anthropometric measurements of mothers and babies, and dietary risk factors scores (DRFSs) were used as predictors of excessive GWG in a retrospective study with 160 participants in three centers of the primary health care system of the ministry of health (MOH) in Gaza. DRFSs were transformed into 13 predefined dietary risk factors for an inadequate diet. This set of dietary risk factors was then used to calculate a combined dietary risk score (range 0–5). After conducting the descriptive statistical analysis of the participants there were 160 mothers aged from 18–35 (mean age 25.78 ± 4.83), and most of the participants had higher educational levels but did not have a job and had low monthly income. Also, most of the participants had low physical activity and were not smokers. The study found a significant differences between income and GWG (p = 0.015), intake of salty food and GWG (p = 0.047), and inadequate varied diet and birth weight (p = 0.001). In addition, this study found a significant difference between the DRFS score and GWG (p < 0.001). On the other hand, the results showed that there was a relationship between GWG and macrosomia, but this difference did not give statistically significant results, as well as with the other parameters of the study. Intake of an adequate diet and varied healthy food will improve the gestational weight and so will improve the birth weight. Nutritional education and public health awareness about the intake of balanced healthy food should be provided to pregnant women in primary and secondary health care. Other studies will be conducted with more participants, monitoring diet through the three trimesters of pregnancy to discover further explanations of the relationship between GWG and birth weight. Full article

2 pages, 146 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

Evaluation of Parenteral Nutrition Practices at Neonatal Intensive Care Units in Gaza City: Hospital-Based Study

by Dalia Ayyad, Jehad El-Hissi and Ihab Almasri

Proceedings 2023, 88(1), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2023088014 - 31 Aug 2023

Viewed by 936

Abstract

Adequate nutritional support for neonates who are sick is challenging due to the difficulty of feeding during their illness and instability. Although feeding through the gastrointestinal tract is the preferred route, there are specific conditions where Parenteral Nutrition (PN) as an adjunctive or [...] Read more.

Adequate nutritional support for neonates who are sick is challenging due to the difficulty of feeding during their illness and instability. Although feeding through the gastrointestinal tract is the preferred route, there are specific conditions where Parenteral Nutrition (PN) as an adjunctive or sole therapy is necessary. There is a relationship between PN practices and morbidity and mortality in early neonatal life among hospitalized neonates. This study aims to evaluate the short-term impact of Parental Nutrition (PN) practices on the nutritional status of neonates in the two central Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) in Gaza city. This prospective observational cross-sectional, supported by in-depth interviews, included 50 neonates receiving PN support in two NICUs in Gaza between May 2019 and December 2020. Two data collection questionnaires were adapted from the international Audit Tool. Blood samples were analyzed for pre-albumin as a marker for malnutrition, and SPSS was used to analyze the obtained data. The study highlighted a lack of compliance with national and international guidelines. In 62% of the studied neonates, the daily calories were less than half their recommended energy requirements. There was a significant change in the mean body weight between birth weight and weight after the first and second weeks of PN initiation (p < 0.005). The mortality rate was 16% of the studied neonates. The results showed that neonates who were weaned and discharged home had statistically significantly higher pre-albumin between the 5th and 10th days of PN initiation (p value 0.032) and between the 10th and 15th days of PN initiation (t = 21.894, p value 0.00) compared to neonates who died. This study highlighted the impact of a lack of compliance with national and international standards on the outcome of neonates. There is a need to improve the quality and safety of PN practices at NUS in Gaza City. Full article

2 pages, 146 KiB

Open AccessAbstract

Nutritional Assessment of Zinc and Ionized Calcium Status among Patients of Acute Myocardial Infarction in Gaza Governorate, Gaza Strip

by Wafaa Fuad Abu Sharkh, Mohammed Srour and Mohamed A. Al-Ghussein

Proceedings 2023, 88(1), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2023088015 - 13 Sep 2023

Viewed by 790

Abstract

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is the medical name for a heart attack. A heart attack is a life-threatening condition that occurs when blood flow to the heart muscle is abruptly cut off, causing tissue damage. AMI is a major health problem and is [...] Read more.

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is the medical name for a heart attack. A heart attack is a life-threatening condition that occurs when blood flow to the heart muscle is abruptly cut off, causing tissue damage. AMI is a major health problem and is considered the main cause of death and disability globally among males aged 15–59 years old. The mortality rate for AMI is 18.7% in males and 7.7% in females worldwide. The micronutrients zinc and calcium have an important role in the cardiovascular system. The aim of this study was to assess the association between dietary zinc and calcium intake and the risk of AMI and find out the relationship between serum zinc, ionized calcium levels, and cardiac markers. A descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study was conducted on sixty AMI patients admitted to the department of coronary care unit at Al Shifaa Hospital. All patients were interviewed; clinical and anthropometric data were collected through a validated questionnaire. Blood samples were collected to measure serum zinc and ionized calcium levels. SPSS software was used to analyze the obtained data. 91.7% of the study participants were male, and 8.3% were female. A total of 31.7% of patients had less than normal zinc levels, and 33.3% of patients had less than normal levels of ionized calcium. There were no statistically significant correlations between serum zinc, ionized calcium, and cardiac markers (p > 0.05); also, there were no statistically significant correlations between dietary zinc, dietary calcium intake levels, and cardiac markers (p > 0.05). The deficiency in serum zinc and ionized calcium was noticed in several patients, and the association between serum zinc and ionized calcium and the risk of AMI incidence requires additional investigations in a large population study. Full article

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Proceedings, 2023, ECNAD & ICAMS-II 2023

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