This paper endeavours to elucidate the intricacies of Palestinian Paradiplomacy,focusing in the political impetus pioneered by its principle actors,namely the Palestine Liberation Organisation(PLO)and subsequently,the...This paper endeavours to elucidate the intricacies of Palestinian Paradiplomacy,focusing in the political impetus pioneered by its principle actors,namely the Palestine Liberation Organisation(PLO)and subsequently,the establishment of the Palestinian National Authority(PNA).Additionally,attention will be directed towards the creation of the Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs(PMOFA)and its subsidiary,the Palestinian International Cooperation Agency(PICA),albeit briefly discussed.Drawing inspiration from Alexander S.Kuznetsov’s seminal work“Theory and Practice of Paradiplomacy:Subnational Governments in International Affairs”(2015),this paper tries to scrutinize the trajectory of Palestinian paradiplomacy and its evolutionary course over time.When it comes to activity and growth,Palestinian paradiplomacy has a unique profile.The way in which topics pertaining to nations are not yet recognized has a great deal of bearing on current discussions and academic research about urgent political concerns like the right to self-determination and human rights.The analysis of de facto states via the prism of paradiplomacy naturally arises from the dominant state recognition procedures in international politics.展开更多
In the context of historical Palestine, the Palestinian and Jewish demography are deeply embedded （Goldsheider, 1991; Freidlander, 2002）. The growth and structure of the populations are one of the most important too...In the context of historical Palestine, the Palestinian and Jewish demography are deeply embedded （Goldsheider, 1991; Freidlander, 2002）. The growth and structure of the populations are one of the most important tools for the control of the territory （Dahlan, 1989）. Jewish immigration was and is still considered as the single most important mean for the conquest of the land （Courbage, 2005）. Yet this is only a partial truth （Fargues, 2000）. Fertility, especially when it is natural at its peak or still very high is also a very significant asset, which is likely to reverse internal equilibrium among the different forces shaping the two societies （Courbage ＆ Todd, 2011; Ettinger, 2011）. Hence, Jews and Palestinians have embarked since decades into a demographic competition （Faraoune, personal communication, December 19, 1992; Anson ＆ Avinoam, 1996）, with this extraordinary result, that in a matter of a century （1948-2048） this small piece of land will have undergone the highest population growth on earth, equivalent to sub Saharan Africa （Faitelson, 2008; Courbage ＆ Fargues, 1997）. It is likely output is not less important to define the future nature of historical Palestine： one or two states （Baskin, 2005; Courbage, 2008）？ And if the two states solution is in effect, what kind of states would it be？ After presenting the recent trends of Palestinian demography in the context of historical Palestine since the first intifada and the aftermath of the second intifada, this essay will focus on future developments, i.e. the likely population dynamics of the Palestinian territory from 2011 until 2048, and of its different components, namely fertility. Palestinian population growth during the next four decades will be compared to that of the future Israeli population and the policy components of this differential population growth will be evaluated both in the context of historical Palestine and in the context of the Jewish State in its 1948 borders （Jews and Palestinians of 1948）. The most serious demographic challenges, （which are not those of an overall ＂equilibrium＂ between Palestinian and Jewish populations as very often claimed）, are very precisely delineated in the ground. These are, first, the question of the peopling of the settlements （Be-Tselem, 2002）. their population is likely to explode from 560,000 settlers now to 1.7 million in 2048, thanks to their extremely high fertility, low mortality, high immigration and ＂population momentum＂ （Central Bureau of Statistics, 2013; Courbage, 2006）. From 18% of the overall population of the West Bank they could reach 29% in 2048, a clear defiance to the possibility of statehood in Palestine. Besides, statehood in Palestine is also threatened by the fact that East-Jerusalem, the likely capital of the Palestinian state is also threatened by the expansionist demography of the Jewish settlers, both in the so-called ＂neighborhoods＂, those settlements close to Jerusalem but which are according to international law an integral part of the West Bank （annexed by Israel in 1967）, and inside the Old city. In Jerusalem, besides Jewish immigration to the neighborhoods from the densely and poor areas of West Jerusalem, fertility trends have now been reversed to advantage of the Jews as compared to the Palestinians in the Holy city （Della Pergola, 2001）. This presentation will deal also with the population trends of the Palestinian population from now on until 2048 （Dalen ＆ Petersen, 2004; Courbage, 1999）. Under the impact of a higher fertility, and a population momentum clearly to its benefit, the population of Gaza （all Palestinians） could approach the Palestinian population of the West Bank： 4.0 in Gaza, 4.3 in the WB （Clarens, 2011）. Yet, the slight majority in the West Bank comes from the Palestinians in Jerusalem, whose political status is still vague. A larger share of the Palestinian population living in the Gaza strip rather than in the West bank is probably not devoid of political implications. For the policy makers it is not easy to run against demographic trends, especially when they are largely guided and decided by the other State which shares the same land. Yet, it is of utmost importance to be fully aware of the likely evolution of the demographic landscape in Palestine and to prepare the demographic but mostly non-demographic policy measures to counterbalance their effects.展开更多
Objective:To assess the prevalence of intestinal parasites among Jenin Govemorate(Northern Palestine) population.Methods:A retrospective laboratory analysis of stool specimens was carried out for intestinal parasite e...Objective:To assess the prevalence of intestinal parasites among Jenin Govemorate(Northern Palestine) population.Methods:A retrospective laboratory analysis of stool specimens was carried out for intestinal parasite examination in Jenin Governmental Hospital,Jenin Govemorate,Northern Palestine.The records were collected from the clinical microbiology laboratory of the Jenin Governmental Hospital between January 2000 and December 2009. Results:Our retrospective study showed that the prevalence of intestinal parasite infection during 10 years ranged from 32.0-41.5%.There are at least 7 different parasites encountered.The most common pathogenic parasites identified were:Entamoeba histolytica(8.2-18.2%),Enterobius vermicularis(15.6-28.9%).The other parasites present were Giardia lamblia,Ascaris lumbricoides, Strongyloides stercoralis,Taenia species and Ancylostoma duodenale.(Hookworms).Conclusions: Intestinal parasitic infection is an important public health problem in Jenin govemorate, Palestine.It is necessary to develop effective prevention and control strategies including health education and environmental sanitation improvement.展开更多
Objective:To detect the species of larval trematodes(cercariae) in Melanopsis praemorsa snails from 5 different fresh water bodies in Palestine.Methods:A total of 1 880 Melanopsis praemona snails were collected from d...Objective:To detect the species of larval trematodes(cercariae) in Melanopsis praemorsa snails from 5 different fresh water bodies in Palestine.Methods:A total of 1 880 Melanopsis praemona snails were collected from different fresh water bodies in Palestine from October,2008 to November,2010.Cercariae in Melanopsis praemona snails were obtained by lighting and crushing methods.The behavior of cercariae was observed using a dissecting microscope.Results:Three different species of larval trematodes were identified from Melanopsis praemona snails collected only from Al-Bathan fresh water body,while snails from other water bodies were not infected. These species were microcercous cercaria,xiphidiocercaria and brevifurcate lophocercous cercaria.These cercariae called Cercaria melanopsi palestinia 1,Cercaria melanopsi palestinia H and Cercaria melanopsi palestinia III have not been described before from this snail in Palestine. The infection rate of Melanopsis praemona collected from Al-Bathan fresh water body was 5.7%, while the overall infection rate of snails collected from all fresh water bodies was 4.3%.Details are presented on the morphology and behavior of the cercariae as well as their development within the snail.Conclusions:These results have been recorded for the first time and these cercariae may be of medical and veterinary importance.展开更多
In the Mediterranean region, climate change will result by 2100 in a temperature increase that most likely will range from 2°C to 2.7°C, while annual precipitation will most likely reduce in the range of 3% ...In the Mediterranean region, climate change will result by 2100 in a temperature increase that most likely will range from 2°C to 2.7°C, while annual precipitation will most likely reduce in the range of 3% to 10%. This paper uses hydrological modeling of precipitation and evapotranspiration to evaluate the challenge to aquifer natural recharge considering Palestine as a case study. The study showed that the climate change impacts on aquifer recharge will vary according to the distributions of monthly precipitation and evapotranspiration in the recharge areas. The 2°C to 3°C increase in temperature could result in a reduction of 6% to 13% in aquifer annual recharge. Aquifer recharge was found to be sensitive to changes in precipitation as a reduction of 3% to 10% in annual precipitation could result in a reduction in annual recharge ranging from 3% to 25%. It was observed that aquifers with recharge areas characterized by lower precipitation are more sensitive to precipitation reduction and thus groundwater resources will be negatively impacted more in these areas by climate change. Thus, climate change will reduce water availability in drier areas requiring adaptation measures through improving water management and rehabilitation of water infrastructure.展开更多
Due to the energy demand and lack of supplied energy of Palestinian cities, wind resource assessment is important and necessary. The objective of the work is to analyze the wind speed data characteristics and wind pow...Due to the energy demand and lack of supplied energy of Palestinian cities, wind resource assessment is important and necessary. The objective of the work is to analyze the wind speed data characteristics and wind power potential at eastern Jerusalem that are collected at 10 m above ground level from 2008 to 2018. The variations of monthly, seasonal, and annual wind speed are analyzed, and the measured maximum, minimum, and mean values are presented in this study. Wind speed characteristics have been analyzed by the well-known Weibull distribution function, and used to evaluate the wind power of the proposed site. Moreover, the relationship between wind power and mean wind speed is fitted by a second-order polynomial. The shape parameter moderate values showed that wind speed was relatively steady at the site. The highest average maximum value was found to be 5.7 m/s in June-2008, whereas the mean maximum values ranged from 5.4 m/s in June to 3.8 m/s in November. The highest mean power value was found to be 31.66 w/m<sup>2</sup> in July with a maximum value of 23.18 w/m<sup>2</sup> in 2013. R<sup>2</sup> of the polynomial fit provides values of 95% for monthly mean and 96% for annual mean.展开更多
This research will examine the potentially economic, environmental, and political impacts for recycling the stone slurry in Palestine through utilization of this slurry in the ready mix concrete industry. The utilizat...This research will examine the potentially economic, environmental, and political impacts for recycling the stone slurry in Palestine through utilization of this slurry in the ready mix concrete industry. The utilization concept is concluded in incorporation of the stone slurry as a partial replacement of the fine ingredient of the concrete mix which is the natural sand, based on several empirical studies that have proved the possibility for this utilization. The proposed utilization would result in a rather integration between these two main economic sectors: stone industry, and ready mix concrete industry. The results of this research revealed significant economic and environmental gains in terms of money and natural resources saved if partial replacement of natural sand with fresh stone slurry has been adopted.展开更多
Ion Exchange membrane technology (IEM) is a method that allowed a single extraction process and a single subsequent measurement of different elements that are available in soil. The values of the available forms of th...Ion Exchange membrane technology (IEM) is a method that allowed a single extraction process and a single subsequent measurement of different elements that are available in soil. The values of the available forms of the different macro- and micronutrients obtained by IEM extraction were compared with the values of the soluble form obtained by conventional extraction methods. In surface soil sample, the concentrations of available potassium, nitrate, phosphate, iron and boron were 37.7 mg kg–1, 17.5 mg kg–1, 3.6 mg kg–1, 171.0 μg kg–1, and 4.2 μg kg–1 respectively were greater than that of soluble forms of the same elements which were 7.0 mg kg–1, 9.2 mg kg–1, 0.4 mg kg–1, 109.0 μg kg–1, and 1.9 μg kg–1 respectively.展开更多
OBJECTIVE: United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) provides primary health care services including care for diabetes and hypertension, with limited resources under diffic...OBJECTIVE: United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) provides primary health care services including care for diabetes and hypertension, with limited resources under difficult circumstances in Gaza, West Bank, Jordan, Lebanon and Syria. A total of 114,911 people with diabetes were registered with UNRWA health centres in 2011. The aim of this cross-sectional observational study was to assess the quality of diabetes care in the UNRWA primary health care centres. METHOD: The study population consisted of 1600 people with diabetes attending the 32 largest UNRWA health centres and treated there for at least one year. Between April and Sept. 2012 data from medical records, including results of clinical examinations and laboratory tests performed during the last one year, current management including self-care education and evidence of diabetes complications were collected and recorded in a previously validated data collection form (DCF). Patients were interviewed and clinically examined on the day of the audit and blood collected for HbA1c testing which was done at a central lab using High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method (HLC®-723G8 Tosoh Corporation, Japan). Data was transferred from paper records into a computer and analysed with Epi-info 2000. RESULTS: Type 1 diabetes was present in 4.3% and type 2 diabetes in 95.7%. Co-morbid hypertension was present in 68.5%;90.3% were either obese (64.0%) or overweight (26.3%). Clinical management of diabetes was largely in line with UNRWA’s technical instructions (TI) for diabetes. Records for 2 hour postprandial glucose (2 h PPG), serum cholesterol, serum creatinine, and urine protein analysis were available in 94.7%, 96.4%, 91.4% and 87.5%, cases, respectively. Records of annual fundoscopic eye examination were available in 47.3% cases but foot examinations were less well documented. Most patients (95.6%) were on anti-diabetic drugs—68.2% oral anti diabetic drugs (OAD) only, 14.4% combination of OAD and insulin, and 12.9% insulin only. While 44.8% patients had 2 h PPG ≤ 180 mg/dl, only 28.2% had HbA1c ≤ 7%;55.5% and 28.2% had BP ≤ 140/90 and ≤130/80 mm of Hg respectively. Serum cholesterol ≥ 200 mg/dl, serum creatinine ≥ 1.2 mg/dl and macro albuminuria were noted in 39.8%, 6.4% and 10.3% cases respectively. Peripheral neuropathy (52.6%), foot infections (17%), diabetic retinopathy (11%) and myocardial infarction (9.6%) were the most common long term complications. One or more episodes of hypoglycaemia were reported by 25% cases in total and in 48% of those using insulin. 17.7% and 22.6% cases received no or ≥4 self-care education sessions respectively. CONCLUSION: The study confirmed that UNRWA doctors and nurses follow TI for diabetes and hypertension fairly well. Financial constraints and the consequent effects on UNRWA TI and policies related to diabetes care were important constraints. Key challenges identified were: reliance on 2 h PPG to measure control;non-availability of routine HbA1c testing, self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) and statins within the UNRWA system;and high levels of obesity in the community. Addressing these will further strengthen UNRWA health system’s efforts of providing services for diabetes and hypertension at the primary care level. Given that most developing countries either have no or only rudimentary services for diabetes and hypertension at the primary care level, UNRWA’s efforts can serve as an inspiration to others.展开更多
Linear regression and moving averages were used to analyze the patterns of rainfall in eight station in the district of Ramallah and Al-Bireh for the period from 1950’s to present. Data analysis showed that a ten yea...Linear regression and moving averages were used to analyze the patterns of rainfall in eight station in the district of Ramallah and Al-Bireh for the period from 1950’s to present. Data analysis showed that a ten years period variability of rainfall but with consistency. It also showed that rainfall in the studied area is not decreasing as mentioned in several previous studies. This area is mountainous and enjoys the Mediterranean climates.展开更多
Idna, Hebron area, Palestine was subject to phytosociological study through the period from March to May 2013;this area has a characteristic dry, arid, semi-arid and very little of sub-humid and locates between Medite...Idna, Hebron area, Palestine was subject to phytosociological study through the period from March to May 2013;this area has a characteristic dry, arid, semi-arid and very little of sub-humid and locates between Mediterranean, Negev and Sinai regions. We took 237 samples of different species plants from Idna village;the absence of phytosociological studies on the area led us to run a statistical treatment on the 237 woody plant inventories. Moreover, the inventories were made following Braun-Blanquet 1979;we transformed the Braun-Blanquet species abundance-dominance values into those of Van der Maarel 1979. In the statistical treatment we obtained two large groups in the cluster: group (A), representing forests, copses and high shrublands influenced by climate (climatophilous);and group (B), representing Tamarix copses which are influenced by edaphohygrophilic. Working a great interest for Palestine. Due to the lack of phytosociological studies in this country. For the first time gets to sample and characterize the phytosociological methodology woody plant communities. The objective of this study is to obtain bioclimatic indicators to trigger sustainable agricultural development. We propose eight association plant communities such as ASL1 = association of woody plants (association one)—Pistacio palaestinae-Quercetum lokii;ASL2—Capparido sinaicae-Ceratonietum siliquae;ASL3—Cerasus microcarpae-Quercetum ithaburensis;ASL4—Pyro siriacae-Abietetum cilicicae;ASL5—Abio ciliciae-Ceratonietum siliquae;ASL6—Periploco aphylli-Pinetum halepensis;ASL7—Cytisopsis pseudocytiso-Tamaricetum tetragynae;ASL8—Crataego sinaicae-Tamaricetum jordanii.展开更多
Objective:This study was conducted to update the prevalence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus(MRSA) isolates among human clinical S.aureus isolates recovered from Northern Palestine,to evaluate the possib...Objective:This study was conducted to update the prevalence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus(MRSA) isolates among human clinical S.aureus isolates recovered from Northern Palestine,to evaluate the possible presence of vancomycin-Resistant S.aureus(VRSA) and vancomycin- intermediate resistant S.aureus strains(VISA) and to determine the antimicrobial susceptibilities of these clinical isolates.Methods:The in vitro activities of 11 antibiotics against 204 non-duplicate S.aureus isolates from clinical samples in North of Palestine were determined by the diskdiffusion method.These samples were isolated between June 2006 and December 2007.The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of vancomycin for 115 methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus(MRSA) strains was carried out using the agar dilution method.Results:One hundred and fifteen(56.4%) of these isolates were MRSA and according to their antibiotic profile these are multidrug resistant(resistant to three or more non-p-lactam antibiotics). Ninety nine(43.6%) isolates were methicillin sensitive S.aureus(MSSA),forty four of MSSA isolates(44.4%) were multidrug resistant,while forty five(45.6%) were non multidrug resistant.Our results showed that the most common resistance(95.6%) was to penicillin.Two strains of MRSA have shown to be vancomycin- intermediate resistant,had MIC of 4μg/rnL and 8μg/mL and these vancomycin- intermediate resistant S.aureus strains(VISA) are resistant to all antibiotics tested.Conclusion:According to our information this is the first study report about VISA in Palestine.展开更多
In July 1937,Lord Peel’s Palestine Royal Commission report was given to the British government.This report concluded that the only solution for Palestine was the prototype principle of“two state for two nations”sol...In July 1937,Lord Peel’s Palestine Royal Commission report was given to the British government.This report concluded that the only solution for Palestine was the prototype principle of“two state for two nations”solution-a Jewish state and an Arab state.This was the first proposal for a partition plan in Palestine.Since then,throughout the 90 years,there have been over 20 recommendations for the solution of the struggle based on the two-state solution.The last,most recent,recommendations were The Camp David Accords drafted by Clinton in 2000,the Geneva Initiative in 2003,and Ehud Olmert’s Annapolis Plan in 2008.It appears that the differences between the sides are many,too many to enable reaching an agreement regarding two states.What has happened over the last 80 years since then?Is a two state solution,after over 100 years of Arab-Jews conflict in the Holy Land,still possible?This article shows the long road the partition plan has taken in Palestine and suggests a new look about the partition that already exist.展开更多
Olive Leaf Spot (OLS) is found in many parts of the world and cause readuced growth and yield in olive trees. In this study, investigations were carried out to measure the incidence (% infected leaves) and severity (n...Olive Leaf Spot (OLS) is found in many parts of the world and cause readuced growth and yield in olive trees. In this study, investigations were carried out to measure the incidence (% infected leaves) and severity (number of lesions/leaf) of OLS in olive growing regions in Palestine, including the regions of Hebron, Bethlehem, Tulkarm, Salfit, Jenin, Nablus, Ramallah and Qalqiyah. OLS was found in all study areas with significantly higher percent incidences in Jenin and Nablus (67.16% ± 18.16% and 46.06% ± 23.70%, respectively). OLS was more severe in Nablus, Qalqilyah, Jenin and Tulkarm (severity grade 3.0 - 3.7). Analysis indicate that there is a positive correlation (R2 = 0.597) between disease incidence and severity. OLS appeared to be particularly severe on trees that were growing in regions with higher annual rainfall. The correlation between severity and rainfall was positive (R2 = 0.543).展开更多
Zinc deficiency, obesity and stunting can be observed together in some developing countries. Moreover, zinc deficiency may enhance fat deposition and decrease lean body mass. In term of health, adequate absorbable zin...Zinc deficiency, obesity and stunting can be observed together in some developing countries. Moreover, zinc deficiency may enhance fat deposition and decrease lean body mass. In term of health, adequate absorbable zinc in food is essential for human health and growth. On the other hand, zinc deficiency affects children’s physical growth and deteriorates health status and increases the risk and severity of a variety of infectious diseases. The aim of the study is to assess zinc nutritional status among early adolescents in the GazaStrip-Palestine. Methods: A cross sectional study had been performed on 296 adolescents aged 12-15 years old. Three areas in theGazaStrip were chosen randomly. Systematically, pupils of 7th, 8th and 9th grades were selected. Height and weight measures were taken. Questionnaires including dietary habit and physical activities of pupils were collected in addition to serum zinc level measure. Results: The overall prevalence of serum zinc deficiency among adolescents was 42.5%. Zinc deficiency was more prevalent among the females (47.7%) than the males (37.2%). The overall prevalence of high body mass index was 29%. The overall prevalence of stunting was 7.6%. The stunted males (8.8%) were more prevalent than the females (6.4%). Forty-nine percent of the females live in sedentary life style, whereas 55% of the males practiced active and very active leisure physical activity. The females were less consuming of meat, eggs and milk than the males. Serum zinc level is associated positively with consumption of meat, BMI for age, stunting and physical activities. Conclusion: Zinc deficiency is prevalent among adolescents. Serum zinc level was affected positively by consumption of animal food sources. Zinc deficiency is associated positively with the life style characteristic of adolescents in the GazaStrip.展开更多
Groundwater of North West Bank in Palestine was assessed for pollution with trace metals by ICP/MS. The samples were analysed for their pH, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, and different trace metals c...Groundwater of North West Bank in Palestine was assessed for pollution with trace metals by ICP/MS. The samples were analysed for their pH, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, and different trace metals content. The pH, electrical conductivity, and total dissolved solids of all water samples were found to be within the US Environmental protection Agency limits. Results showed that the concentration of nine trace metals (Cr, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, Mo, Pb, Cd, and Al) is within the WHO limits in drinking water (50, 500, 20, 2000, 3000, 70, 10, 3, and 200 ug/L, respectively), however six metals of them (Cr, Mn, Ni, Cu, Mo, and Al) were detected in 100% of the samples, while Pb, Cd, and Zn were detected in 80%, 60%, and 20% of the samples, respectively. On the other hand, Tl which is a very toxic heavy metal with allowed WHO limits of 0.01 - 1 ug/L is detected in 100% of the water samples analysed with a range of 0.02 - 0.12 ug/L. It indicates that such concentration levels of Tl would be harmful to the human being drinking the water. In general, 82% of all samples analysed contained one or more of the 12 metals studied each in varying concentration. Results of this study suggest a possible risk to the people of the study area given the toxicity of heavy metals, and the fact that for many people in the study area, groundwater is a main source of their water supply.展开更多
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the leading cause of death in both sexes worldwide, and becomes number one killer in women due to many factors including increase in traditional risk factors, delays in apparition of s...Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the leading cause of death in both sexes worldwide, and becomes number one killer in women due to many factors including increase in traditional risk factors, delays in apparition of symptoms, under estimation of diagnosis test and treatment. Our study aims to identify risk factors for coronary artery disease among women with chest pain underwent coronary angiography during years (2010-2013) in cardiology center. The study design is an observational among 688 women-aged 32 - 96 years;the mean age of our study population is 61 years. Risk factors are abstracted from patients’ files. Women with documented coronaries disease tend to be older, have higher, systolic blood pressure, serum level of triglyceride, and impaired clearance creatinine. 59.4% of them are menopause with higher prevalence of hypertension and diabetes (58.6% and 63.6%). Significant positive association is found in women with myocardial infarction, unstable angina, stable angina and presence of obstructive coronary artery disease respectively (89.6%, 82.3%, 59.1%) in opposite women presented with atypical chest pain have high prevalence of normal coronaries (95.7%). About 57.6% have more than three risk factors, and 55.3% are obese or overweight. In addition, 42.1% of them have impaired systolic function. We conclude that cardiovascular risk factors are highly prevalent among Palestinians women in Gaza and the combination of risk factors is common. Interventions to minimize CAD in our population are needed.展开更多
This paper presents a floristic and vegetation study of the territories of the Idna-Hebron of Palestine, corresponding to one area with three different names as Abu Salman Forest Reserve, Khallet Osman mountains, and ...This paper presents a floristic and vegetation study of the territories of the Idna-Hebron of Palestine, corresponding to one area with three different names as Abu Salman Forest Reserve, Khallet Osman mountains, and Hamra Aslimi. These sites are very important at a local level of the flora with a high endemic rate. The floristic analysis revealed the existence of 48 species, of which 10 (20.83%) are endemic endemic. Seventeen plots of vegetation distributed in one area dominated and have been analyzed in this study. Methodology, the phytosociological approach is based on the Braun-Blanquet method. The results revealed three different kinds of forests, one dominated by the endemic Pino halepensis-Quercetum lookii, which is peculiar to the inframediterranean dry-thermomediterranean environments, with the terra rossa and brown rendzinas territory. The second type of forest is dominated by the Pistacio palaestinae-Ceratonietum silique, which is growing in the dry-subhumid ombrotype and the terra rossa and brown rendzinas territory. The third group of the forest of Khallet Osman and Hamra Aslimi dominated by Quercus lookii-Tamaricetum palestineae. Finally, in this study there are three associations and tow alliances are proposed as new Syntaxa based on statistical and phytosociological analyses in the study area.展开更多
This study investigates the aftermath of a significant train derailment and vinyl chloride release incident in East Palestine, Ohio, with a particular focus on the analysis of precipitation acidity changes and the con...This study investigates the aftermath of a significant train derailment and vinyl chloride release incident in East Palestine, Ohio, with a particular focus on the analysis of precipitation acidity changes and the concentration of vinyl chloride in samples. The research seeks to elucidate the complex relationship between industrial accidents, atmospheric chemistry, and their potential implications for human health and the environment. Through meticulous examination of variations in precipitation acidity patterns, this study provides valuable insights into the dispersion and impact of toxic agents in the environment following industrial mishaps. The results underscore the intricate interplay between these factors, highlighting the need for a multidisciplinary approach that bridges the realms of environmental science and biomedical concerns. This research contributes to a growing body of knowledge that addresses the broader consequences of industrial incidents on public health. It underscores the importance of proactive measures, such as enhanced monitoring and surveillance, risk assessment, public education, and regulatory reform, to mitigate the environmental and health risks associated with industrial activities involving hazardous materials. By fostering collaboration between experts and stakeholders, this study advocates for a holistic approach to safeguarding both our environment and the well-being of communities affected by industrial accidents.展开更多
Three-dimensional(3D)printing has attracted increasing research interest as an emerging manufacturing technology for devel-oping sophisticated and exquisite architecture through hierarchical printing.It has also been ...Three-dimensional(3D)printing has attracted increasing research interest as an emerging manufacturing technology for devel-oping sophisticated and exquisite architecture through hierarchical printing.It has also been employed in various advanced industrial areas.The development of intelligent biomedical engineering has raised the requirements for 3D printing,such as flexible manufacturing processes and technologies,biocompatible constituents,and alternative bioproducts.However,state-of-the-art 3D printing mainly involves inorganics or polymers and generally focuses on traditional industrial fields,thus severely limiting applications demanding biocompatibility and biodegradability.In this regard,peptide architectonics,which are self-assembled by programmed amino acid sequences that can be flexibly functionalized,have shown promising potential as bioinspired inks for 3D printing.Therefore,the combination of 3D printing and peptide self-assembly poten-tially opens up an alternative avenue of 3D bioprinting for diverse advanced applications.Israel,a small but innovative nation,has significantly contributed to 3D bioprinting in terms of scientific studies,marketization,and peptide architectonics,including modulations and applications,and ranks as a leading area in the 3D bioprinting field.This review summarizes the recent progress in 3D bioprinting in Israel,focusing on scientific studies on printable components,soft devices,and tissue engineering.This paper further delves into the manufacture of industrial products,such as artificial meats and bioinspired supramolecular architectures,and the mechanisms,physicochemical properties,and applications of peptide self-assembly.Undoubtedly,Israel contributes significantly to the field of 3D bioprinting and should thus be appropriately recognized.展开更多
文摘This paper endeavours to elucidate the intricacies of Palestinian Paradiplomacy,focusing in the political impetus pioneered by its principle actors,namely the Palestine Liberation Organisation(PLO)and subsequently,the establishment of the Palestinian National Authority(PNA).Additionally,attention will be directed towards the creation of the Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs(PMOFA)and its subsidiary,the Palestinian International Cooperation Agency(PICA),albeit briefly discussed.Drawing inspiration from Alexander S.Kuznetsov’s seminal work“Theory and Practice of Paradiplomacy:Subnational Governments in International Affairs”(2015),this paper tries to scrutinize the trajectory of Palestinian paradiplomacy and its evolutionary course over time.When it comes to activity and growth,Palestinian paradiplomacy has a unique profile.The way in which topics pertaining to nations are not yet recognized has a great deal of bearing on current discussions and academic research about urgent political concerns like the right to self-determination and human rights.The analysis of de facto states via the prism of paradiplomacy naturally arises from the dominant state recognition procedures in international politics.
文摘In the context of historical Palestine, the Palestinian and Jewish demography are deeply embedded （Goldsheider, 1991; Freidlander, 2002）. The growth and structure of the populations are one of the most important tools for the control of the territory （Dahlan, 1989）. Jewish immigration was and is still considered as the single most important mean for the conquest of the land （Courbage, 2005）. Yet this is only a partial truth （Fargues, 2000）. Fertility, especially when it is natural at its peak or still very high is also a very significant asset, which is likely to reverse internal equilibrium among the different forces shaping the two societies （Courbage ＆ Todd, 2011; Ettinger, 2011）. Hence, Jews and Palestinians have embarked since decades into a demographic competition （Faraoune, personal communication, December 19, 1992; Anson ＆ Avinoam, 1996）, with this extraordinary result, that in a matter of a century （1948-2048） this small piece of land will have undergone the highest population growth on earth, equivalent to sub Saharan Africa （Faitelson, 2008; Courbage ＆ Fargues, 1997）. It is likely output is not less important to define the future nature of historical Palestine： one or two states （Baskin, 2005; Courbage, 2008）？ And if the two states solution is in effect, what kind of states would it be？ After presenting the recent trends of Palestinian demography in the context of historical Palestine since the first intifada and the aftermath of the second intifada, this essay will focus on future developments, i.e. the likely population dynamics of the Palestinian territory from 2011 until 2048, and of its different components, namely fertility. Palestinian population growth during the next four decades will be compared to that of the future Israeli population and the policy components of this differential population growth will be evaluated both in the context of historical Palestine and in the context of the Jewish State in its 1948 borders （Jews and Palestinians of 1948）. The most serious demographic challenges, （which are not those of an overall ＂equilibrium＂ between Palestinian and Jewish populations as very often claimed）, are very precisely delineated in the ground. These are, first, the question of the peopling of the settlements （Be-Tselem, 2002）. their population is likely to explode from 560,000 settlers now to 1.7 million in 2048, thanks to their extremely high fertility, low mortality, high immigration and ＂population momentum＂ （Central Bureau of Statistics, 2013; Courbage, 2006）. From 18% of the overall population of the West Bank they could reach 29% in 2048, a clear defiance to the possibility of statehood in Palestine. Besides, statehood in Palestine is also threatened by the fact that East-Jerusalem, the likely capital of the Palestinian state is also threatened by the expansionist demography of the Jewish settlers, both in the so-called ＂neighborhoods＂, those settlements close to Jerusalem but which are according to international law an integral part of the West Bank （annexed by Israel in 1967）, and inside the Old city. In Jerusalem, besides Jewish immigration to the neighborhoods from the densely and poor areas of West Jerusalem, fertility trends have now been reversed to advantage of the Jews as compared to the Palestinians in the Holy city （Della Pergola, 2001）. This presentation will deal also with the population trends of the Palestinian population from now on until 2048 （Dalen ＆ Petersen, 2004; Courbage, 1999）. Under the impact of a higher fertility, and a population momentum clearly to its benefit, the population of Gaza （all Palestinians） could approach the Palestinian population of the West Bank： 4.0 in Gaza, 4.3 in the WB （Clarens, 2011）. Yet, the slight majority in the West Bank comes from the Palestinians in Jerusalem, whose political status is still vague. A larger share of the Palestinian population living in the Gaza strip rather than in the West bank is probably not devoid of political implications. For the policy makers it is not easy to run against demographic trends, especially when they are largely guided and decided by the other State which shares the same land. Yet, it is of utmost importance to be fully aware of the likely evolution of the demographic landscape in Palestine and to prepare the demographic but mostly non-demographic policy measures to counterbalance their effects.
文摘Objective:To assess the prevalence of intestinal parasites among Jenin Govemorate(Northern Palestine) population.Methods:A retrospective laboratory analysis of stool specimens was carried out for intestinal parasite examination in Jenin Governmental Hospital,Jenin Govemorate,Northern Palestine.The records were collected from the clinical microbiology laboratory of the Jenin Governmental Hospital between January 2000 and December 2009. Results:Our retrospective study showed that the prevalence of intestinal parasite infection during 10 years ranged from 32.0-41.5%.There are at least 7 different parasites encountered.The most common pathogenic parasites identified were:Entamoeba histolytica(8.2-18.2%),Enterobius vermicularis(15.6-28.9%).The other parasites present were Giardia lamblia,Ascaris lumbricoides, Strongyloides stercoralis,Taenia species and Ancylostoma duodenale.(Hookworms).Conclusions: Intestinal parasitic infection is an important public health problem in Jenin govemorate, Palestine.It is necessary to develop effective prevention and control strategies including health education and environmental sanitation improvement.
文摘Objective:To detect the species of larval trematodes(cercariae) in Melanopsis praemorsa snails from 5 different fresh water bodies in Palestine.Methods:A total of 1 880 Melanopsis praemona snails were collected from different fresh water bodies in Palestine from October,2008 to November,2010.Cercariae in Melanopsis praemona snails were obtained by lighting and crushing methods.The behavior of cercariae was observed using a dissecting microscope.Results:Three different species of larval trematodes were identified from Melanopsis praemona snails collected only from Al-Bathan fresh water body,while snails from other water bodies were not infected. These species were microcercous cercaria,xiphidiocercaria and brevifurcate lophocercous cercaria.These cercariae called Cercaria melanopsi palestinia 1,Cercaria melanopsi palestinia H and Cercaria melanopsi palestinia III have not been described before from this snail in Palestine. The infection rate of Melanopsis praemona collected from Al-Bathan fresh water body was 5.7%, while the overall infection rate of snails collected from all fresh water bodies was 4.3%.Details are presented on the morphology and behavior of the cercariae as well as their development within the snail.Conclusions:These results have been recorded for the first time and these cercariae may be of medical and veterinary importance.
文摘In the Mediterranean region, climate change will result by 2100 in a temperature increase that most likely will range from 2°C to 2.7°C, while annual precipitation will most likely reduce in the range of 3% to 10%. This paper uses hydrological modeling of precipitation and evapotranspiration to evaluate the challenge to aquifer natural recharge considering Palestine as a case study. The study showed that the climate change impacts on aquifer recharge will vary according to the distributions of monthly precipitation and evapotranspiration in the recharge areas. The 2°C to 3°C increase in temperature could result in a reduction of 6% to 13% in aquifer annual recharge. Aquifer recharge was found to be sensitive to changes in precipitation as a reduction of 3% to 10% in annual precipitation could result in a reduction in annual recharge ranging from 3% to 25%. It was observed that aquifers with recharge areas characterized by lower precipitation are more sensitive to precipitation reduction and thus groundwater resources will be negatively impacted more in these areas by climate change. Thus, climate change will reduce water availability in drier areas requiring adaptation measures through improving water management and rehabilitation of water infrastructure.
文摘Due to the energy demand and lack of supplied energy of Palestinian cities, wind resource assessment is important and necessary. The objective of the work is to analyze the wind speed data characteristics and wind power potential at eastern Jerusalem that are collected at 10 m above ground level from 2008 to 2018. The variations of monthly, seasonal, and annual wind speed are analyzed, and the measured maximum, minimum, and mean values are presented in this study. Wind speed characteristics have been analyzed by the well-known Weibull distribution function, and used to evaluate the wind power of the proposed site. Moreover, the relationship between wind power and mean wind speed is fitted by a second-order polynomial. The shape parameter moderate values showed that wind speed was relatively steady at the site. The highest average maximum value was found to be 5.7 m/s in June-2008, whereas the mean maximum values ranged from 5.4 m/s in June to 3.8 m/s in November. The highest mean power value was found to be 31.66 w/m<sup>2</sup> in July with a maximum value of 23.18 w/m<sup>2</sup> in 2013. R<sup>2</sup> of the polynomial fit provides values of 95% for monthly mean and 96% for annual mean.
文摘This research will examine the potentially economic, environmental, and political impacts for recycling the stone slurry in Palestine through utilization of this slurry in the ready mix concrete industry. The utilization concept is concluded in incorporation of the stone slurry as a partial replacement of the fine ingredient of the concrete mix which is the natural sand, based on several empirical studies that have proved the possibility for this utilization. The proposed utilization would result in a rather integration between these two main economic sectors: stone industry, and ready mix concrete industry. The results of this research revealed significant economic and environmental gains in terms of money and natural resources saved if partial replacement of natural sand with fresh stone slurry has been adopted.
文摘Ion Exchange membrane technology (IEM) is a method that allowed a single extraction process and a single subsequent measurement of different elements that are available in soil. The values of the available forms of the different macro- and micronutrients obtained by IEM extraction were compared with the values of the soluble form obtained by conventional extraction methods. In surface soil sample, the concentrations of available potassium, nitrate, phosphate, iron and boron were 37.7 mg kg–1, 17.5 mg kg–1, 3.6 mg kg–1, 171.0 μg kg–1, and 4.2 μg kg–1 respectively were greater than that of soluble forms of the same elements which were 7.0 mg kg–1, 9.2 mg kg–1, 0.4 mg kg–1, 109.0 μg kg–1, and 1.9 μg kg–1 respectively.
文摘OBJECTIVE: United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) provides primary health care services including care for diabetes and hypertension, with limited resources under difficult circumstances in Gaza, West Bank, Jordan, Lebanon and Syria. A total of 114,911 people with diabetes were registered with UNRWA health centres in 2011. The aim of this cross-sectional observational study was to assess the quality of diabetes care in the UNRWA primary health care centres. METHOD: The study population consisted of 1600 people with diabetes attending the 32 largest UNRWA health centres and treated there for at least one year. Between April and Sept. 2012 data from medical records, including results of clinical examinations and laboratory tests performed during the last one year, current management including self-care education and evidence of diabetes complications were collected and recorded in a previously validated data collection form (DCF). Patients were interviewed and clinically examined on the day of the audit and blood collected for HbA1c testing which was done at a central lab using High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method (HLC®-723G8 Tosoh Corporation, Japan). Data was transferred from paper records into a computer and analysed with Epi-info 2000. RESULTS: Type 1 diabetes was present in 4.3% and type 2 diabetes in 95.7%. Co-morbid hypertension was present in 68.5%;90.3% were either obese (64.0%) or overweight (26.3%). Clinical management of diabetes was largely in line with UNRWA’s technical instructions (TI) for diabetes. Records for 2 hour postprandial glucose (2 h PPG), serum cholesterol, serum creatinine, and urine protein analysis were available in 94.7%, 96.4%, 91.4% and 87.5%, cases, respectively. Records of annual fundoscopic eye examination were available in 47.3% cases but foot examinations were less well documented. Most patients (95.6%) were on anti-diabetic drugs—68.2% oral anti diabetic drugs (OAD) only, 14.4% combination of OAD and insulin, and 12.9% insulin only. While 44.8% patients had 2 h PPG ≤ 180 mg/dl, only 28.2% had HbA1c ≤ 7%;55.5% and 28.2% had BP ≤ 140/90 and ≤130/80 mm of Hg respectively. Serum cholesterol ≥ 200 mg/dl, serum creatinine ≥ 1.2 mg/dl and macro albuminuria were noted in 39.8%, 6.4% and 10.3% cases respectively. Peripheral neuropathy (52.6%), foot infections (17%), diabetic retinopathy (11%) and myocardial infarction (9.6%) were the most common long term complications. One or more episodes of hypoglycaemia were reported by 25% cases in total and in 48% of those using insulin. 17.7% and 22.6% cases received no or ≥4 self-care education sessions respectively. CONCLUSION: The study confirmed that UNRWA doctors and nurses follow TI for diabetes and hypertension fairly well. Financial constraints and the consequent effects on UNRWA TI and policies related to diabetes care were important constraints. Key challenges identified were: reliance on 2 h PPG to measure control;non-availability of routine HbA1c testing, self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) and statins within the UNRWA system;and high levels of obesity in the community. Addressing these will further strengthen UNRWA health system’s efforts of providing services for diabetes and hypertension at the primary care level. Given that most developing countries either have no or only rudimentary services for diabetes and hypertension at the primary care level, UNRWA’s efforts can serve as an inspiration to others.
文摘Linear regression and moving averages were used to analyze the patterns of rainfall in eight station in the district of Ramallah and Al-Bireh for the period from 1950’s to present. Data analysis showed that a ten years period variability of rainfall but with consistency. It also showed that rainfall in the studied area is not decreasing as mentioned in several previous studies. This area is mountainous and enjoys the Mediterranean climates.
文摘Idna, Hebron area, Palestine was subject to phytosociological study through the period from March to May 2013;this area has a characteristic dry, arid, semi-arid and very little of sub-humid and locates between Mediterranean, Negev and Sinai regions. We took 237 samples of different species plants from Idna village;the absence of phytosociological studies on the area led us to run a statistical treatment on the 237 woody plant inventories. Moreover, the inventories were made following Braun-Blanquet 1979;we transformed the Braun-Blanquet species abundance-dominance values into those of Van der Maarel 1979. In the statistical treatment we obtained two large groups in the cluster: group (A), representing forests, copses and high shrublands influenced by climate (climatophilous);and group (B), representing Tamarix copses which are influenced by edaphohygrophilic. Working a great interest for Palestine. Due to the lack of phytosociological studies in this country. For the first time gets to sample and characterize the phytosociological methodology woody plant communities. The objective of this study is to obtain bioclimatic indicators to trigger sustainable agricultural development. We propose eight association plant communities such as ASL1 = association of woody plants (association one)—Pistacio palaestinae-Quercetum lokii;ASL2—Capparido sinaicae-Ceratonietum siliquae;ASL3—Cerasus microcarpae-Quercetum ithaburensis;ASL4—Pyro siriacae-Abietetum cilicicae;ASL5—Abio ciliciae-Ceratonietum siliquae;ASL6—Periploco aphylli-Pinetum halepensis;ASL7—Cytisopsis pseudocytiso-Tamaricetum tetragynae;ASL8—Crataego sinaicae-Tamaricetum jordanii.
文摘Objective:This study was conducted to update the prevalence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus(MRSA) isolates among human clinical S.aureus isolates recovered from Northern Palestine,to evaluate the possible presence of vancomycin-Resistant S.aureus(VRSA) and vancomycin- intermediate resistant S.aureus strains(VISA) and to determine the antimicrobial susceptibilities of these clinical isolates.Methods:The in vitro activities of 11 antibiotics against 204 non-duplicate S.aureus isolates from clinical samples in North of Palestine were determined by the diskdiffusion method.These samples were isolated between June 2006 and December 2007.The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of vancomycin for 115 methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus(MRSA) strains was carried out using the agar dilution method.Results:One hundred and fifteen(56.4%) of these isolates were MRSA and according to their antibiotic profile these are multidrug resistant(resistant to three or more non-p-lactam antibiotics). Ninety nine(43.6%) isolates were methicillin sensitive S.aureus(MSSA),forty four of MSSA isolates(44.4%) were multidrug resistant,while forty five(45.6%) were non multidrug resistant.Our results showed that the most common resistance(95.6%) was to penicillin.Two strains of MRSA have shown to be vancomycin- intermediate resistant,had MIC of 4μg/rnL and 8μg/mL and these vancomycin- intermediate resistant S.aureus strains(VISA) are resistant to all antibiotics tested.Conclusion:According to our information this is the first study report about VISA in Palestine.
文摘In July 1937,Lord Peel’s Palestine Royal Commission report was given to the British government.This report concluded that the only solution for Palestine was the prototype principle of“two state for two nations”solution-a Jewish state and an Arab state.This was the first proposal for a partition plan in Palestine.Since then,throughout the 90 years,there have been over 20 recommendations for the solution of the struggle based on the two-state solution.The last,most recent,recommendations were The Camp David Accords drafted by Clinton in 2000,the Geneva Initiative in 2003,and Ehud Olmert’s Annapolis Plan in 2008.It appears that the differences between the sides are many,too many to enable reaching an agreement regarding two states.What has happened over the last 80 years since then?Is a two state solution,after over 100 years of Arab-Jews conflict in the Holy Land,still possible?This article shows the long road the partition plan has taken in Palestine and suggests a new look about the partition that already exist.
文摘Olive Leaf Spot (OLS) is found in many parts of the world and cause readuced growth and yield in olive trees. In this study, investigations were carried out to measure the incidence (% infected leaves) and severity (number of lesions/leaf) of OLS in olive growing regions in Palestine, including the regions of Hebron, Bethlehem, Tulkarm, Salfit, Jenin, Nablus, Ramallah and Qalqiyah. OLS was found in all study areas with significantly higher percent incidences in Jenin and Nablus (67.16% ± 18.16% and 46.06% ± 23.70%, respectively). OLS was more severe in Nablus, Qalqilyah, Jenin and Tulkarm (severity grade 3.0 - 3.7). Analysis indicate that there is a positive correlation (R2 = 0.597) between disease incidence and severity. OLS appeared to be particularly severe on trees that were growing in regions with higher annual rainfall. The correlation between severity and rainfall was positive (R2 = 0.543).
文摘Zinc deficiency, obesity and stunting can be observed together in some developing countries. Moreover, zinc deficiency may enhance fat deposition and decrease lean body mass. In term of health, adequate absorbable zinc in food is essential for human health and growth. On the other hand, zinc deficiency affects children’s physical growth and deteriorates health status and increases the risk and severity of a variety of infectious diseases. The aim of the study is to assess zinc nutritional status among early adolescents in the GazaStrip-Palestine. Methods: A cross sectional study had been performed on 296 adolescents aged 12-15 years old. Three areas in theGazaStrip were chosen randomly. Systematically, pupils of 7th, 8th and 9th grades were selected. Height and weight measures were taken. Questionnaires including dietary habit and physical activities of pupils were collected in addition to serum zinc level measure. Results: The overall prevalence of serum zinc deficiency among adolescents was 42.5%. Zinc deficiency was more prevalent among the females (47.7%) than the males (37.2%). The overall prevalence of high body mass index was 29%. The overall prevalence of stunting was 7.6%. The stunted males (8.8%) were more prevalent than the females (6.4%). Forty-nine percent of the females live in sedentary life style, whereas 55% of the males practiced active and very active leisure physical activity. The females were less consuming of meat, eggs and milk than the males. Serum zinc level is associated positively with consumption of meat, BMI for age, stunting and physical activities. Conclusion: Zinc deficiency is prevalent among adolescents. Serum zinc level was affected positively by consumption of animal food sources. Zinc deficiency is associated positively with the life style characteristic of adolescents in the GazaStrip.
文摘Groundwater of North West Bank in Palestine was assessed for pollution with trace metals by ICP/MS. The samples were analysed for their pH, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, and different trace metals content. The pH, electrical conductivity, and total dissolved solids of all water samples were found to be within the US Environmental protection Agency limits. Results showed that the concentration of nine trace metals (Cr, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, Mo, Pb, Cd, and Al) is within the WHO limits in drinking water (50, 500, 20, 2000, 3000, 70, 10, 3, and 200 ug/L, respectively), however six metals of them (Cr, Mn, Ni, Cu, Mo, and Al) were detected in 100% of the samples, while Pb, Cd, and Zn were detected in 80%, 60%, and 20% of the samples, respectively. On the other hand, Tl which is a very toxic heavy metal with allowed WHO limits of 0.01 - 1 ug/L is detected in 100% of the water samples analysed with a range of 0.02 - 0.12 ug/L. It indicates that such concentration levels of Tl would be harmful to the human being drinking the water. In general, 82% of all samples analysed contained one or more of the 12 metals studied each in varying concentration. Results of this study suggest a possible risk to the people of the study area given the toxicity of heavy metals, and the fact that for many people in the study area, groundwater is a main source of their water supply.
文摘Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the leading cause of death in both sexes worldwide, and becomes number one killer in women due to many factors including increase in traditional risk factors, delays in apparition of symptoms, under estimation of diagnosis test and treatment. Our study aims to identify risk factors for coronary artery disease among women with chest pain underwent coronary angiography during years (2010-2013) in cardiology center. The study design is an observational among 688 women-aged 32 - 96 years;the mean age of our study population is 61 years. Risk factors are abstracted from patients’ files. Women with documented coronaries disease tend to be older, have higher, systolic blood pressure, serum level of triglyceride, and impaired clearance creatinine. 59.4% of them are menopause with higher prevalence of hypertension and diabetes (58.6% and 63.6%). Significant positive association is found in women with myocardial infarction, unstable angina, stable angina and presence of obstructive coronary artery disease respectively (89.6%, 82.3%, 59.1%) in opposite women presented with atypical chest pain have high prevalence of normal coronaries (95.7%). About 57.6% have more than three risk factors, and 55.3% are obese or overweight. In addition, 42.1% of them have impaired systolic function. We conclude that cardiovascular risk factors are highly prevalent among Palestinians women in Gaza and the combination of risk factors is common. Interventions to minimize CAD in our population are needed.
文摘This paper presents a floristic and vegetation study of the territories of the Idna-Hebron of Palestine, corresponding to one area with three different names as Abu Salman Forest Reserve, Khallet Osman mountains, and Hamra Aslimi. These sites are very important at a local level of the flora with a high endemic rate. The floristic analysis revealed the existence of 48 species, of which 10 (20.83%) are endemic endemic. Seventeen plots of vegetation distributed in one area dominated and have been analyzed in this study. Methodology, the phytosociological approach is based on the Braun-Blanquet method. The results revealed three different kinds of forests, one dominated by the endemic Pino halepensis-Quercetum lookii, which is peculiar to the inframediterranean dry-thermomediterranean environments, with the terra rossa and brown rendzinas territory. The second type of forest is dominated by the Pistacio palaestinae-Ceratonietum silique, which is growing in the dry-subhumid ombrotype and the terra rossa and brown rendzinas territory. The third group of the forest of Khallet Osman and Hamra Aslimi dominated by Quercus lookii-Tamaricetum palestineae. Finally, in this study there are three associations and tow alliances are proposed as new Syntaxa based on statistical and phytosociological analyses in the study area.
文摘This study investigates the aftermath of a significant train derailment and vinyl chloride release incident in East Palestine, Ohio, with a particular focus on the analysis of precipitation acidity changes and the concentration of vinyl chloride in samples. The research seeks to elucidate the complex relationship between industrial accidents, atmospheric chemistry, and their potential implications for human health and the environment. Through meticulous examination of variations in precipitation acidity patterns, this study provides valuable insights into the dispersion and impact of toxic agents in the environment following industrial mishaps. The results underscore the intricate interplay between these factors, highlighting the need for a multidisciplinary approach that bridges the realms of environmental science and biomedical concerns. This research contributes to a growing body of knowledge that addresses the broader consequences of industrial incidents on public health. It underscores the importance of proactive measures, such as enhanced monitoring and surveillance, risk assessment, public education, and regulatory reform, to mitigate the environmental and health risks associated with industrial activities involving hazardous materials. By fostering collaboration between experts and stakeholders, this study advocates for a holistic approach to safeguarding both our environment and the well-being of communities affected by industrial accidents.
基金supported by the National Key R&D Program of China within the China-Israel Cooperative Scientific Research(No.2022YFE0100800)(Israeli No.3-18130)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.52175551,22072181)+1 种基金the Leading Innovative and Entrepreneur Team Introduction Program of Zhejiang Province,China(No.2022R01001)the Zhejiang University Global Partnership Fund and Open Foundation of the State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic Systems(No.GZKF-202224).
文摘Three-dimensional(3D)printing has attracted increasing research interest as an emerging manufacturing technology for devel-oping sophisticated and exquisite architecture through hierarchical printing.It has also been employed in various advanced industrial areas.The development of intelligent biomedical engineering has raised the requirements for 3D printing,such as flexible manufacturing processes and technologies,biocompatible constituents,and alternative bioproducts.However,state-of-the-art 3D printing mainly involves inorganics or polymers and generally focuses on traditional industrial fields,thus severely limiting applications demanding biocompatibility and biodegradability.In this regard,peptide architectonics,which are self-assembled by programmed amino acid sequences that can be flexibly functionalized,have shown promising potential as bioinspired inks for 3D printing.Therefore,the combination of 3D printing and peptide self-assembly poten-tially opens up an alternative avenue of 3D bioprinting for diverse advanced applications.Israel,a small but innovative nation,has significantly contributed to 3D bioprinting in terms of scientific studies,marketization,and peptide architectonics,including modulations and applications,and ranks as a leading area in the 3D bioprinting field.This review summarizes the recent progress in 3D bioprinting in Israel,focusing on scientific studies on printable components,soft devices,and tissue engineering.This paper further delves into the manufacture of industrial products,such as artificial meats and bioinspired supramolecular architectures,and the mechanisms,physicochemical properties,and applications of peptide self-assembly.Undoubtedly,Israel contributes significantly to the field of 3D bioprinting and should thus be appropriately recognized.
