Al-Baha City Research Articles

Prevalence of Acne Vulgaris in Adolescents and Young Adults in Al-Baha Region, Saudi Arabia.

Introduction Acne vulgaris affects 9.4% of the global population, primarily targeting teenagers, and persists into adulthood. It is considered a major health challenge in Saudi Arabia due to its high prevalence, but there is a lack of studies in Al-Baha City, Saudi Arabia. Therefore, our goal is to estimate the prevalence of acne vulgaris in Al-Baha, which, in turn, may guide the education of those who are affected and help develop preventive measures. Methodology This is an observational cross-sectional study targeting adolescents and young adults in Al-Baha. The data was collected using an online version of a questionnaire designed to achieve the study's objectives. Data was collected in Excel(Microsoft Corporation, Redmond, Washington, United States) and imported into R software version 4.2.2 (R Foundation for Statistical Computing, Vienna, Austria, https://www.R-project.org/). Result Approximately 70.2% (n=641) of the participants either currently have or have experienced acne, with the majority experiencing it on their faces (92%, n=451). The likelihood of experiencing acne was higher among individuals aged 23-25 years and females. The majority of participants assessed their acne as moderate (65%, n=292). Severe acne was associated with a higher risk of low mood and low self-esteem (p < 0.001). Conclusion Almost two-thirds of the participants (70.2%, n=641) reported either currently having or having experienced acne. Therefore, awareness should be raised about acne vulgaris and its management.

Relation between liver, kidney function, and lipid profile in glycaemic control among type 2 diabetic patients in Al Baha City

Relation between liver, kidney function, and lipid profile in glycaemic control among type 2 diabetic patients in Al Baha City

Assessment of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Non-Inherited Risk Factors for Congenital Heart Disease Among Mothers in Al-Baha City, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background Despite advancements in healthcare, congenital heart disease (CHD) remains a global concern. It is crucial to understand non-inherited risk factors for CHD to develop effective prevention strategies. This study evaluates the awareness and impact of socio-economic factors on the knowledge and practices regarding CHD among mothers in Al-Baha City, Saudi Arabia. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted using a structured questionnaire distributed among 300 mothers. This questionnaire collected demographic data and assessed the knowledge of non-inherited CHD risk factors, along with associated health practices. Chi-square tests were employed for categorical variables, and logistic regression was used to analyze the influence of socioeconomic factors on awareness levels. Results The study revealed a significant association between higher educational levels and increased awareness of CHD risk factors. About 75% of mothers with postgraduate education accurately identified major risk factors, compared to 30% of those with only a high school education. Additionally, income levels influenced health practices, with higher-income groups showing better adherence to recommended health behaviors. Conclusion Our findings highlight the need for targeted educational interventions tailored to diverse socio-economic backgrounds to enhance awareness of CHD risk factors and promote preventive health practices. The study emphasizes the importance of incorporating socioeconomic considerations into public health strategies to reduce the incidence of CHD.

Prevalence of tick infestation and molecular characterization of tick species of camels (Camelus dormedarius) from Al-Baha South Saudi Arabia

AbstractArthropods serve as efficient carriers for various life-threatening infections parasites, viruses and other harmful organisms throughout the world. In this study, Al-Aqiq Governorate of Al-Baha city served as the site where tick burden on camels (Camelus dromedarius) was assessed. The aim of the present investigation was to determine the diversity and prevalence of ticks. A total of 800 ticks, 756 adults and 44 nymphs were gathered and identified. Tick DNA was obtained from camels by utilizing commercially available kits. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was done on recovered DNA utilizing 12S rDNA and 16S ribosomal DNA fragments to analyze and identify the ticks. Three species of hard ticks were found in the two genera Hyalomma and Rhipicephalus. Hyalomma dromedarii (81.81%) and H. rufipes (17.35%) were the two species with the highest prevalence found on the domestic animal hosts, whereas R. sanguineus (had the lowest prevalence of 0.82%). This is a preliminary report of DNA barcode of tick species of camels (Camelus dormedarius) from Al-Baha in KSA and the Arabian Peninsula, which is a significant step towards broader phylogenetic studies on tick samples from this region. The results of our study provide valuable insights for healthcare administrators and government authorities regarding the frequency of hard ticks on mammalian hosts in Al-Aqiq Governorate of Al-Baha City, Saudi Arabia. This can also assist in regulating tick diseases, in particular during the epidemic time.

Optimal urban sustainable design for residential village in Al-Baha region: application five roles strategies

This paper evaluates and discusses the proposed design for a low carbon environmental village in Al-Baha region. It considers its viability in view of local renewable energy sources, climatic conditions and local vernacular architectural identity. Five areas were targeted when designing the village: (a) low carbon architectural design strategies; (b) on-site renewable energy strategies; (c) selection of local construction materials; (d) exploitation of rain water harvesting and greywater recycling; and (e) waste disposal recycling and management. The used approach is to design a sustainable village with its facilities in prospective of environmental requirements social needs. The design follow application five roles’ strategies from the literature and depending on local site challenges, available of natural in a location of Al-Baha gate from the airport. The site selected is located along the main highway that connects Al-Baha city to its nearest airport. The chosen area is 4,945,000 m2 and has a flat topography with mountains located relatively close by. The findings present in the study plans for comprehensive sustainable low carbon energy village, which meet the climatic requirements and exploiting natural resources operated by natural renewable energy. This village is designed for typical Saudi families, and will be built from local construction materials. The design includes more than 6150 residential units powered by photovoltaic (PV) panels, and local services using wind energy. The energy requirements for the whole village were calculated based on macro and micro energy generation. Local regulatory standards and sustainability criteria have also been met for the proposed village. Five experts also evaluated the five-purpose design proposition. The impact of designing sustainable villages will lead in protection of environment improved the life and health quality as well as economic benefits. The benefits of addressing five aims are highlighted and the study concluded with some recommendations.

Activated Opuntia ficus-indica as an efficient adsorbent for iodine and heavy metals Cr(III), Cu(II) and Ni(II) ions uptake for wastewater treatment

Water pollution by heavy metals or iodine is a serious environmental issue that poses a threat to human health and ecosystems. Therefore, there is a need for developing efficient and low-cost methods for removing heavy metals and iodine from water sources. Activated Opuntia ficus-indica (AOFI) has been used for various purposes such as food, medicine, cosmetics, biofuel, and soil stabilization. The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility of using AOFI as an adsorbent for removing heavy metals; e.g. Cr(III), Pb(II), and Cu(II) and iodine from water. The leaves of AOFI that were collected from Al-Baha city, KSA, were carbonized and characterized using FTIR spectroscopy and TGA analysis. Then uptake experiments were performed to evaluate the effects of various parameters such as pH, contact time, initial concentration, and temperature on the removal uptake by AOFI. Also the thermodynamic and kinetic parameters of the adsorption process had been calculated. The adsorption capacity of AOFI and OFI against iodine, Cr(III), Pb(II), and Cu(II) had been calculated. The results showed that; AOFI has adsorption capacity 1.14, 1.14, and 1.16 times higher than OFI, for Cr(III), Pb(II), and Cu(II), respectively, and 1.05 times higher than OFI, for iodine uptake. The findings indicated that AOFI exhibited remarkable efficacy in the metal ions uptake, achieving uptake efficiency up to 70%. Additionally, AOFI demonstrated notable efficiency in iodine uptake, reaching up to 60%. These results underscore the high uptake efficiency of AOFI for both metal ions and iodine, emphasizing its potential as an effective adsorbent for water treatment applications. This study is novel because it is the first to report the adsorption of heavy metals; such as Cr(III), Pb(II), and Cu(II) and iodine by AOFI.

Health-Related Quality of Life of Asthmatic Patients in Al-Baha City, Saudi Arabia.

Introduction According to disability-adjusted life years (DALY), bronchial asthma (BA) is rated 28th among the top causes of disease burden globally and among the most significant reasons for years lived with disability. Internationally, 300 million people have asthma, and another 100 million individuals may develop it by 2025. In Al-Baha City, where environmental factors such as dust and pollen levels can exacerbate asthma symptoms, understanding and addressing the health-related quality of life of asthmatic patients is crucial. Understanding the health-related quality of life of asthmatic patients can inform public health policies and initiatives aimed at reducing environmental triggers and promoting better asthma management in the city. Objectives The study aims to assess the impact of asthma regarding physical, emotional, and social activities that affect health-related quality of life. Subjects and methods A cross-sectional study was conducted from January 2023 to May 2023 at King Fahad Hospital in Al-Baha City, Saudi Arabia. The study used a Mini Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire that measures physical, emotional, and social activities that affect health-related quality of life. Results One hundred and fifty-one out of 185 participants responded, yielding a response rate of 81.6%. The average age of the participants was 52, with a standard deviation of 15.4 years. Participants' responses regarding symptoms related to the environment during the last two weeks indicated "all the time" experiencing feeling bothered by or having to avoid cigarette smoke (n=104, 69%) and dust (n=92, 61%) in the environment. Moreover, considering emotion-related symptoms, 54% reported they did not feel afraid of not having their asthma medication available. Similarly, 46% reported never feeling frustrated because of asthma, whereas 3.3% of the participants documented hardly ever feeling frustrated. Regarding social activity limitations, 44 individuals (29%) reported no limits in these activities, while 43 (28%) reported being completely limited. While there were limitations in work-related activities, 42 participants (28%) reported no restrictions, whereas 34 (23%) reported being completely limited. Conclusion The study findings highlight a concern about suboptimal asthma control and the need to attain more satisfactory levels of asthma management.

Complementary Feeding for Children Aged 6-24 Months: Impact and Maternal Awareness in Al Baha City, Saudi Arabia.

Background Breastfeeding and complementary feeding are essential for baby health and nutrition. Concerning these feeding habits, there is a dearth of information on mother awareness and behaviors in Saudi Arabia. This study intends to evaluate maternal knowledge of breastfeeding and complementary feeding in Al Baha City, Saudi Arabia. Methodology This cross-sectional prospective study was conducted among mothers in Al Baha City, Saudi Arabia. Data were collected using a structured electronic questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics and a chi-square test. Results We received 524 responses. The majority of participants (358, 68.2%) were found to have sufficient understanding of breastfeeding and complementary feeding. Four hundred and forty participants (84%) were aware that breastfeeding should begin immediately after birth, but only 250 (47.7%)participants knew the proper time to start complementary feeding. Three hundred and ninety-six (75.6%) participants were aware of the proper duration of exclusive breastfeeding, whereas 128 (24.4%) of them did not know. The study showed that factors such as occupation, family economic status, and educational level influence maternal knowledge of complementary feeding. Conclusions The study revealed that the majority of participants had good knowledge about breastfeeding and complementary feeding. The study highlights effective training and public awareness initiatives aimed at improving mothers' knowledge and practices regarding feeding. Additionally, it sheds light on the healthcare providers' exemplary knowledge andattitudes toward appropriate feeding practices among mothers in Al Baha City.

Dementia and Multimorbidity Trends in Al-Baha, Saudi Arabia: An Analytical Retrospective Study Using Records-Based Data.

The prevalence of dementia is escalating significantly, posing a substantial societal burden. Currently, there exists a dearth of comprehensive health data about dementia patients in Saudi Arabia, particularly within Al-Baha City. A retrospective case-series study was undertaken to ascertain the prevalence of dementia within the populace of the Al-Baha region, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This investigation utilized hospital-based records encompassing individuals exhibiting symptoms or diagnosed with dementia and its related forms across the Al-Baha region. Furthermore, the study aimed to evaluate the burden of comorbidities among dementia patients and document the pharmacological therapeutic interventions administered to manage dementia and its associated concurrent health conditions. Our investigation explored the prevalence rates of various forms of dementia and the accompanying comorbidities among affected individuals. The study spanned from August 2020 to August 2023. Our study encompassed 407 patients diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease, vascular dementia (VaD), or other forms of dementia who were either admitted to or attended tertiary hospitals in Al-Baha. Assessment of the comorbidity burden was conducted using the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI). Our findings revealed that among these patients, 13.3% presented with AD, 23.6% with VaD, 33.4% with Parkinson's disease, 15.75% with amnesia, and 14.0% with other types of dementia. The spectrum of comorbidities observed among dementia patients encompassed various conditions, with diabetes mellitus emerging as the predominant comorbidity (19.1%), followed by hypertension (16.4%). Additionally, manifestations of depression were noted in 14% of patients, while 9.82% suffered from paralysis. Chronic conditions such as cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), and cervical spondylosis were also observed among individuals afflicted with dementia and its varied forms. Statistically significant correlations were established between gender, age, nationality, comorbidities, and the prevalence of dementia. Therapeutic interventions in the form of pharmacological treatments were prescribed for dementia patients with comorbidities. Commonly administered medications included Amlod (6.3%), Amlodipine (6.6%), Amlor (5.8%), Aspirin (10.5%), chemotherapeutic drugs (4.4%), Glipizide (8.5%), Lantus (11.3%), Levodopa (23.5%), Metformin (7.8%), acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (6.8%), and Pulmicort (7.86%). These medications aimed to alleviate symptoms associated with dementia and its accompanying comorbidities. Our investigation underscores the substantial burden of comorbidities experienced by dementia patients. These findings offer crucial insights into the overall health status of individuals grappling with dementia, serving as a catalyst for increased awareness among clinicians and policymakers. Such awareness can drive improvements in medical care and support frameworks tailored to the specific needs of dementia patients.

Knowledge and Attitude of School Teachers toward Epilepsy in Al-Baha City, Saudi Arabia- A Cross-sectional Study

Introduction: Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterised by recurrent unprovoked episodes of seizures. A seizure is a frightening event, especially when it lasts more than five minutes, known as status epilepticus, which, if not treated promptly, can lead to brain injury. Understanding first aid for a seizure is crucial and may save the patient’s life. Aim: To assess school teachers’ knowledge about epilepsy, their attitudes toward epileptic patients, and the factors that affect teachers’ knowledge in Al-Baha City. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Al-Baha City, Saudi Arabia, from November 2021 to May 2022. A total of 305 teachers working in various randomly selected schools, equally distributed between male and female schools, were enrolled. Data were collected through an electronic questionnaire to evaluate teachers’ knowledge and attitudes toward epilepsy. Statistical analysis was performed using the Chi-square test, with data considered statistically significant when the p-value was less than 0.05. Results: In the present study, out of 305 subjects, 167 (54.8%) were male, and the majority, 137 (44.9%), were aged between 35-44 years. Of the participants, 214 (70.2%) were found to have poor knowledge about epilepsy, particularly regarding its etiology, impact on learning, and treatment options. There was a positive attitude among 211 (69.2%) participants toward hiring epileptic patients in their businesses and 240 (78.7%) responded positively to allowing their children to play with epileptic patients. However, 125 (41%) participants had a negative attitude toward allowing their offspring to marry an epileptic patient. Conclusion: The school teachers’ knowledge about epilepsy was poor. While their attitudes were positive regarding hiring epileptic patients and allowing their children to play with them, their attitude was negative regarding allowing their offspring to marry an epileptic patient.

Molecular classification of Barbeyaceae (Barbeya oleoides Schweinf.) using four different DNA barcodes

Despite many efforts to determine the phylogenetic relationship between Barbeyaceae and other families of Rosales, the sister relationship of this family has remained unclear. Barbeya oleoides, which is currently the only species in the family Barbeyaceae, and native to Somalia, Ethiopia, and the Arabian Peninsula were collected from Wadi Turbah Zahran northwestern of Al-Baha City, southwestern Saudi Arabia (20°14’N, 41°15’E). To study the sister relationship of Barbeyaceae and the other families of Rosales, the complete chloroplast sequences were used for phylogenetic analysis. In addition, four standard DNA barcodes (the internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2), ribulose 1,5-biphosphate carboxylase (rbcL), maturase K (matk), the intergenic spacer region (trnH-psbA)) were used to test for their quality in identifying phylogenetic relationship of the studied families. Sequence analysis of the complete chloroplast sequences showed that Rosales clade has two subclades and clearly discriminated all families within this order. This is the first report of a partial ITS2 locus sequence in B. oleoides. The partial ITS2, rbcL, matk, and gene sequences discriminate B. oleoides of the Barbeyaceae family from the closely related plant families: Cannabaceae, Rosaceae, Rhamnaceae, Urticaceae, Moraceae, Elaeagnaceae, Dirachmaceae, and Ulmaceae. In contrast, the partial trnH-psbA sequence of B. oleoides did not show any homology to the available DNA sequence of plant families in GenBank, suggesting that it is more suitable as DNA barcode for variations within one species.

Self-Medication Practices Among the General Population in Al-Baha City, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background The practice of self-medication (SM) is the use of self-consuming medication without consulting healthcare which carries its own risks.SM patterns differ across populations and are influenced by several factors. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of SM practices in Al-Baha, Saudi Arabia, to identify the factors contributing to this practice and develop effective strategies to decrease its occurrence and associated risks. Methodology This cross-sectional study was conducted in Al Baha Province, Saudi Arabia, over two weeks in July 2023, with a sample of 580 participants. Eligible participants were males and females, both Saudi and non-Saudi, aged 18-65. The data were collected using a self-administered online questionnaire. Results Of all participants, 48.7% admitted taking medications without a healthcare practitioner's prescription in the last three months. Analgesics were the most common SM (29.1%), followed by vitamins and minerals (16.2%), and antipyretics (14.1%). The side effects experienced from SM included nausea (24.5%), headache (20.5%), and shortness of breath (8.7%). Regarding the source of medication, the majority (61.9%) obtained medications from a pharmacy and 14.6% used existing stock. Age was significantly associated with higher rates in the 18-29 and 40-49 age groups. Educational status was significantly associated with higher SM among graduates. Regarding reading medical instructions, 39.2% always read, 47.7% sometimes read, and 13.1% never read. Regarding antibiotic SM, 61 participants reported using over-the-counter (OTC) antibiotics. Common reasons for use included sore throat (27.8%) and common cold (19.6%). The most common reason for SM was to save time (25.9%), followed by avoiding crowds and long waits (17.1%). Conclusions A significant prevalence of SM practice concerning antibiotic misuse and sex differences with female dominance was detected. We recommend further public awareness activities from related organizations and more regulations for OTC prescription practices to ensure safe SM practices. In addition, further research is needed to explore SM patterns.

Prevalence of Ocular Hypertension and Other Risk Factors of Open-Angle Glaucoma Among Middle-Aged Adults in Al-Baha City, Saudi Arabia.

Background Ocular hypertension (OHT), defined by elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) beyond standard levels, is a predominant risk factor for initiating and exacerbating glaucoma, a collection of progressive optic neuropathies responsible for irreversible vision loss. Given the profound implications for vision care, it is imperative to elucidate the interplay between OHT and glaucoma for effective clinical management. Objective The present study aims to measure IOP levels and identify risk factors associated with glaucoma among middle-aged individuals in Al-Baha City, Saudi Arabia. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted over a six-month span (January-June 2022) in Al-Baha City. The study cohort comprised adults aged 35 and above attending a glaucoma awareness campaign at King Fahad Hospital, Al-Baha. Parameters such as demographics, socioeconomic status, medical and ocular history, and familial history of eye diseases were collated. Initial ophthalmologic assessments and IOP measurements were performed. Statistical analyses utilized Pearson's Chi-square test for nominal variables. Results The study encompassed 111 participants, 84 (75.7%) of whom were male, and 75 (67.6%) were of Saudi nationality. Notably, 102 (91.9%) reported no family history of glaucoma, 91 (81.1%) indicated no past medical history and 81 (73.0%) were not on any chronic medications. The mean IOP for participants' right and left eyes fluctuated between 18.2-21.5 mmHg and 18.9-22.1 mmHg, respectively. Factors such as age, gender, family history of glaucoma, past medical history, use of chronic medications, and history of ophthalmic surgeries demonstrated a statistically significant correlation with IOP (p<0.05). Conclusion This study highlights a higher prevalence of OHT in females, with several risk factors for OHT and glaucoma identified, such as familial history, vascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, and chronic medication use. Notably, our study did not observe a significant association with age or smoking. These findings emphasize the necessity of regular eye examinations and IOP monitoring, especially in high-risk groups.

Prevalence and determinants of healthy dietary habits among hypertensive patients attending primary health care centers in Al-Baha City, Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional study

Background: Hypertension is a serious healthcare problem and a highly prevalent disease in Saudi Arabia. Dietary modification plays an important role in its management. This study aimed to evaluate the dietary habits among hypertensive patients. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 116 hypertensive patients attending Bani Farwah Primary Healthcare Center (PHCC) in Al Baha City, Saudi Arabia. The dietary habits of the participants were evaluated using a self-administered questionnaire. Results: Out of 116 participants, the number of male participants was 97 (83.6%). Almost half of the participants (50.9%) were on a low healthy diet index (HDI), 49.1% were on moderate HDI, and none were on high HDI. Almost one-fifth of the participants (20.7%) were avoiding salt in their meals, and 20.7% were avoiding adding sugar to hot drinks. Male and elderly patients had lower HDI (P = 0.008 and P = 0.004, respectively). Conclusions: Most hypertensive patients do not follow healthy food. Healthcare providers need to increase patients’ awareness through health education toward better control of their blood pressure. Further community-based studies, on a larger sample are needed. Keywords: Diet, Hypertension, Cross-sectional study, Saudi Arabia

Kindergarten Teachers' Use of Language ‎Communication Skills in E-Learning ‎Platforms

The purpose of this study was to determine the extent to which ‎kindergarten teachers use language communication skills when ‎instructing students via online learning platforms. The ‎quantitative descriptive method was utilized, and data were ‎collected using a classroom observation form that includes four ‎skills: listening, speaking, and learners' preparedness to read ‎and write. The observation was carried out during online ‎teaching using a kindergarten online platform in the first ‎semester of 1443 AH.. The sample was randomly selected and ‎consisted of 36 female teachers in public kindergartens in Al ‎Baha City, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The results indicated that ‎kindergarten teachers employed language communication skills ‎at a medium level in all skills (listening, speaking, and learners' ‎readiness to read and write). The results also demonstrated that ‎there were statistically significant differences in relation to the ‎educational qualifications in favor of teachers who hold ‎bachelor's degrees. Furthermore, there were significant ‎differences in writing readiness skills and in the total degree of ‎language communication skills in favor of teachers who ‎specialized in kindergarten. Finally, there were no significant ‎differences that can be attributed to the differences in the years ‎of teaching experience.‎ (Keywords: Skills, Language Communication, Distance ‎Education, E-learning Platforms, Kindergarten Platform)‎

Urban planning role in environmental development, transportation potentials: Al-Baha region

This paper analyzes the potential for energy generation using the transport system in Al-Baha city by investigating its road hierarchy and evaluate traffic in selected location across the city. Urban systems to manage the transport hierarchy are important, and exploiting them to minimize CO2 emissions rates is critical. The used approach is to investigate the urban planning of Al-Baha city by referring to its approved master plan detailing the road hierarchy, and second, conducting a traffic survey at selected points across the city. The data collection process, involved accessing the master plan for Al-Baha city held by the ministry of the municipality for the Al-Baha region. Additional data related to traffic congestion and demand was gathered physically at chosen sites. The output of the study illustrates the potential for energy generation exploiting traffic mobility at six different sites across Al-Baha city. Furthermore, attractive features that effect the transport system in Al-Baha city were highlighted and the potential for energy saving employing energy generation using the transport system discussed. The research contributes on highlighting the potential for renewable energy, minimizes the need to burn fossil fuels, and can be replicated in other cities characterized by high demand transport systems.

The effect of data science on urban sustainability through the optimization of demand-responsive transportation

The study investigated the viability of implementing a demand-responsive transportation (DRT) system within the premises of Al-Baha University to facilitate the punctual arrival of students to their classes and ensure their convenient departure from the campus. This study aims to demonstrate and elucidate how data mining enhances the efficiency of DRT systems. The case study investigates the potential improvements in DRT operations through the utilization of data mining techniques. The research employs descriptive and prescriptive techniques for mining trip planning data. The database maintained by the Deanship of Admission and Registration et al.-Baha University in Al-Baha City, Saudi Arabia, has identified 50 designated locations for student pick-up. The research establishes a comprehensive database that classifies pick-up points as spatial vectors, incorporating longitude, latitude, and counts of students. Cluster analysis and multidimensional scaling techniques are employed to minimize travel times and enhance operational efficiency by consolidating pick-up points. A completely adaptable DRT system prioritizes user satisfaction over operational efficiency, facilitating superior flexible services with fewer buses. The University Transport Department can implement Fixed Route systems in regions with significant population density and substantial demand. Conversely, in areas with a lower population, where Fixed Route systems may be less efficient, the department can opt for DRT systems. Additionally, the findings demonstrate the potential cost-saving benefits of implementing a hybrid system that integrates the university and off-campus student housing. The results indicate that providing fully flexible DRT services to students’ harms efficiency and user experience. A comparative analysis between the Fixed route system and the DRT system reveals that the latter has the potential to offer enhanced service to students, utilizing an equivalent number of vehicles while reducing the number of rides required, all while maintaining a higher degree of flexibility in service provision. According to the recommendation of this study, it is advisable to implement a hybrid fixed route and DRT system. However, to assess the feasibility of such a system in a university setting in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), it is necessary to conduct a comprehensive viability analysis to identify any potential challenges or concerns.

English Teachers’ Perceptions of the Role of Lesson Planning in Classroom Management

In the present article, the researcher aims to identify the relationship between lesson plans and classroom management and attempt to determine the effect of English teachers’ lesson preparation on the implementation of those lessons. Further, we seek to explore English teachers’ perceptions toward the role of lesson planning in classroom management in Saudi English as a first language (EFL) classroom. We collect data from 87 English teachers in secondary schools in Al-Baha City via electronic questionnaire, and our findings demonstrate the importance of lesson planning in classroom management, revealing that Saudi English teachers prepare their lessons effectively to sufficiently manage classrooms. In addition, our results indicate that lesson planning is an essential skill that English teachers must cultivate to create a successful classroom environment. Moreover, the outcomes of the present study highlight most Saudi English teachers’ attitudes toward the role of lesson planning in classroom management are positive. Finally, we find a significant and positive relationship between effective lesson preparation and teachers’ abilities to create a successful EFL classroom environment.

Knowledge and Awareness About Gastric Cancer Among the General Population in Al-Baha City, Saudi Arabia.

Background Gastric cancer is a significant health concern worldwide, and its incidence varies across different populations. This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge and awareness of gastric cancer among the general population in Al-Baha City,Saudi Arabia. Methodology This is a cross-sectional study that was conducted amongthe residents of Al-Baha city older than 18 years. The study was conducted based on a questionnaire that has been developed by a previous study. Data were initially recorded in an Excel sheet before being exported to the SPSS program, version 25 for data analysis. Results The survey included 426 respondents from Al-Baha city, Saudi Arabia, with 56.8% being females and the majority being in the age groups (21-30 years). Alcohol consumption (mean=4.5, SD= 0.77), smoking cigarettes or Shisha (mean= 4.38, SD=0.852), family history of gastric cancer (mean= 4, SD=1.008), a past medical history of gastric cancer(mean= 3.99, SD=0.911), stomach ulcer (mean=3.76, SD=0.898), and consumption of smoked food (mean= 3.69, SD=0.956) are the most widely recognized risk factors. The most highly recognized symptoms are gastrointestinal bleeding (mean= 4.03, SD=0.875), abdominal lump (mean= 3.94, SD=0.926), weight loss (mean= 3.93, SD=0.963), recurrent nausea and vomiting (mean=3.76, SD=0.956), and abdominal pain (mean= 3.57, SD=0.995). The study also identified several subgroups of the population that may benefit fromtargeted educational programs, including individuals in the age group of 41-50 years and those in non-medical occupations. Conclusion The study found that participants had a moderate level of knowledge about therisk factorsand symptoms of gastric cancer, with significant variability among different subgroups of the population. Further research is needed to investigate the prevalence and risk factors of gastric cancer in Saudi Arabia and other similar populations, to develop effective prevention and management strategies for this disease.

Roles and challenges of primary healthcare workers: lessons learned from COVID-19 pandemic.

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the structure of the healthcare system. As a response to the pandemic, the ministry of health applied many changes to the primary healthcare system. These changes created new challenges for healthcare workers (HCWs). To identify the roles and challenges of practitioners in primary healthcare (PHC) centers during COVID-19 in Al-Baha city, Saudi Arabia, in 2022. An analytical cross-sectional study was carried out in 2022 in Al-Baha city, Saudi Arabia. An electronic online questionnaire was distributed formally to HCWs in PHC centers. All primary HCWs during the COVID-19 pandemic in Al-Baha city, Saudi Arabia, were included. A total of 424 responses were analyzed. Half (50.7%) of the participants had fieldwork roles during the pandemic. The two most commonly agreed-upon challenges were stress (78.7%) and worry about getting infected (79.8%). The majority (74.4%) of the participants' roles involved direct contact with suspected COVID-19 cases, whereas 50.9% involved direct contact with confirmed COVID-19 cases. Direct contact with confirmed cases showed a significant association with worrying about getting infected (P = 0.019). Workload, overtime, conflict ambiguity, fear of getting and transmitting the infection, stress, and lack of personal protective equipment were challenges faced by the primary HCWs, which negatively impacted the quality of delivered services and mental health. We recommend facilitating access of primary HCWs to psychiatric clinics to improve stress and help cope with new roles during the pandemics and changes in the healthcare system.