Riyadh City Research Articles

Estimating shear wave velocity and site characterization of western Riyadh City, Saudi Arabia based on multichannel analysis of surface waves

Estimating shear wave velocity and site characterization of western Riyadh City, Saudi Arabia based on multichannel analysis of surface waves

أثر التدريب على تحسين الأداء الوظيفي في القطاع الخاص في مدينة الرياض

This study aims to determine the impact of training on the performance of employees in private sector institutions in the city of Riyadh. The study focuses on a deep understanding of the impact that training can achieve in improving employees’ performance and developing their skills in the work environment. Training is viewed as a strategic tool to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in organizations. The study is based on a comprehensive research methodology that includes collecting data from several institutions in the private sector in the city of Riyadh. Appropriate research tools, such as questionnaires, are used to collect data relevant to training and employee performance. Through this study, it is expected to be of great importance to decision-makers and managers in private sector organizations, as it will provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of training and its impact on employee performance. Based on the results of the study, training strategies can be improved and performance and efficiency enhanced in organizations.

أثر جودة بيئة العمل على نجاح مشاريع شركة الراشد للتجارة والمقاولات بمدينة الرياض

Since quality is one of the most important things in life, and it is one of the goals of Vision 2030 for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, therefore Al-Rashed Trading and Contracting Company in the city of Riyadh seeks to achieve sustainable success in its projects, by focusing on the factors that greatly influence the achievement of this goal, and among the most important The factors are the quality of the work environment within the organization. There are also several other factors that reflect on the quality of the work environment, such as effective communication, trust between teams, high morale, and interest in the personal and professional development of employees. The aim of this study was: to determine the impact of the quality of the work environment on the success of the projects of Al-Rashed Trading and Contracting Company, to discover the factors affecting the quality of the work environment and its impact on the performance of projects, to provide recommendations to improve the quality of the work environment in the company, and to enhance the success of the projects. This study relied on a descriptive and analytical research approach, as well as a field research approach, using the Google Forms statistical tool by distributing an electronic questionnaire to male and female employees. The questionnaire was distributed to (350) individuals, and (303) responses were received, as a group refused. From conducting the questionnaire, a survey sample of (31) individuals from Al-Rashed Trading and Contracting Company employees was distributed from outside the actual sample of the study (comprehensive survey), equivalent to 10% of the total sample, to verify the validity of the internal consistency of the questionnaire. The study concluded that the quality of the work environment is affected by the company's policies and organizational culture, and therefore managing these elements effectively can enhance the success of the company's projects. A healthy and encouraging work environment must also be provided, as this leads to increased employee satisfaction and productivity, which reflects positively on the quality of services and products provided by the company, and thus is reflected in the success of its projects. Accordingly, Al-Rashed Trading and Contracting Company should pay attention to improving the quality of the work environment, and ensuring that it is conducive to the well-being and productivity of its employees, and this in turn will contribute to achieving the sustainable success of its projects in the city of Riyadh.

Obstacles to adopting a healthy lifestyle among primary healthcare patients at King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

ABSTRACT Background: Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are a significant concern for global health as they significantly contribute to mortality and morbidity. In Saudi Arabia, NCDs account for a substantial portion of deaths. Understanding barriers to adopting a healthy lifestyle is crucial for effective prevention and management. The study aims to identify barriers to physical activity and healthy eating to inform targeted interventions that promote healthier behaviors and reduce the burden of NCDs in this population. Aim: This study aims to determine the barriers to healthy lifestyle among patients attending primary health-care clinics in King Abdulaziz Medical City (KAMC) in Riyadh city, Saudi Arabia. Settings and Design: This is a cross-sectional study; data were collected from January 2023 to July 2023. This study was conducted in three main primary health-care centers (Khashm-Ala’an, Umm-alhammam, and Iskan) of KAMC, Riyadh. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted in Riyadh city. The study utilized a questionnaire adapted from previous research. Results were considered significant when the P < 0.05. Results: The study included 383 participants aged 15 to over 45 years, with a significant proportion in the 15–29 years of age group. Approximately half were male, with the majority having attained a university education or higher. A considerable portion had never been married and reported incomes below 10,000 SR per month. Physical inactivity affected nearly half of the participants, primarily attributed to a lack of willpower, followed by factors such as lack of energy and time constraints. Barriers to a healthy diet mirrored those of physical activity, with lack of willpower and time being prominent factors. These barriers exhibited various associations with demographic variables such as age, gender, education, marital status, and income. Conclusion: With 383 participants, the study skewed toward young, educated, unmarried individuals with lower incomes. While nearly half reported physical inactivity and unhealthy diets, citing lack of willpower and time constraints as primary reasons, further analysis is needed to explore how these barriers connect with the diverse demographic makeup of the study population.

Characteristics, Outcomes, and Associations of Venous Thromboembolism in Diabetic Patients Infected With COVID-19 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Background The associations and risk factors for venous thromboembolism (VTE) among hospitalized COVID-19 patients remain ambiguous in the literature, with some conflicting findings, especially in Saudi Arabia. In this study, we aim to elaborate on these data by examining regional patient populations and exploring the incidence, lab findings, and outcomes of VTE among hospitalized COVID-19 patients known to have diabetes mellitus (DM). Methodology This cross-sectional study was conducted at King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh. The BestCare system was used to collect patients' data between September 2020 and February 2022. JMP15 was used for data analysis. Frequencies and percentages were used for categorical data, and median and interquartile ranges were used for quantitative data. The chi-square and Kruskal-Wallis rank-sum tests were used to assess the difference between categorical and quantitative variables, respectively. Nominal logistical regression was used to assess diabetes as a risk factor for developing VTE among COVID-19 patients. Results Data from 153 admitted patients were collected after they satisfied the inclusion criteria. Of these patients, 39 (25.49%) developed VTE. The demographic data included age group, gender, and DM status presented as frequencies and percentages. Through bivariate analysis, patients with longer hospital stays had at least one episode of VTE (p = 0.0072). Using nominal logistic regression analysis, diabetes as a risk factor (odds ratio = 4.11, confidence interval = 0.955-5.05, p = 0.0287) was significantly associated with the development of VTE in COVID-19 patients. Conclusions Based on our study, diabetes proved significant when evaluating the possible factors regarding VTE development in COVID-19 patients. In addition, the length of stay also played a critical role in the severity of VTE in COVID-19 patients. Similar studies should be conducted on a national scale in Saudi Arabia to accomplish two goals: first, to gain further understanding of the impact of the variables investigated in our population, and second, to publish data that are more generalizable to the larger population of Saudi Arabia.

Middle-Level Leadership Style and the Effects of Stress among Nurses in Primary Health Care, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Introduction: Nursing is an important profession in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with nurses comprising more than 80% of the individuals providing health care services, which will increase by 2030. Therefore, developing and maintaining effective nursing leadership is critical to achieving organizational goals and maintaining quality of care despite the challenging healthcare environment. Methods: The data were collected through the distribution of two tools, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, as a tool to evaluate stress, and the Leadership Style Questionnaire, among 204 nurse workforce members and 57 middle-level nurse managers who belong to Prince Sultan Military Medical City, Riyadh City, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The study used a cross-sectional survey design and descriptive correlation analysis. Results: The study indicated associations of age, nationality, and years of working experience as demographic characteristics with the level of stress experienced by the participants. No association was found between demographic characteristics and depression. Moreover, the study illustrated that middle-level leaders show different leadership styles. The findings also indicated an association between years of working experience and a democratic leadership style. In conclusion, no single leadership style is appropriate for every leader in every situation. Demographic characteristics such as age, nationality, and years of working experience showed associations with the level of stress experienced by the nurse workforce. However, they had no association with depression. Conclusion and Recommendation: Investigating the key reasons for the development of stress and depression in nursing staff is crucial. Accordingly, nurses must have opportunities to voice their complaints and ideas about improving the work environment. Educating nurse managers and head nurses about the different styles of leadership; and, how they should select suitable managerial aspects to fit the situation is also important. Further investigations are indicated to explore what triggers stress and depression among the nursing workforce.

Evaluation of the Performance of Operations Management in the Industrial Sector at the National Gas and Industrialization Company (GASCO), headquartered in Riyadh City, Saudi Arabia

Operations play a major role in the LPG industry where the business involves suppliers, some of who are the business owners and customers. Organizations in the LPG industry are faced with challenges in their quest to deliver their products to consumers while concurrently ensuring profitability. Thus, they have to tailor their business operations practices to fit the market. This scientific research aims to see to what extent operations management practices are being undertaken in the National Gas and Industrialization Co. (GASCO) headquarter in Riyadh city that also it owns seven (7) filling stations and a transportation and distribution fleet in Saudi Arabia by studying their supply chain and their process to determine how they impact on the operational performance of the factories. The target population in this study was the National Gas and Industrialization Co. (GASCO) headquarter in Riyadh city that also it owns seven (7) filling stations and a transportation and distribution fleet in Saudi Arabia. Primary data on the project implementation was collected using a questionnaire. Secondary data was obtained from relevant publications and literature review from the different organizations. Data was presented using tables, and pie charts to make them reader friendly and this study conducted a multiple regression analysis. Multiple regression analysis was used to establish the relationship between the independent and dependent variables. The study found that there is a positive significant relationship between supply chain, lean management, value stream mapping, machine maintenance and operational performance. However, the study found a negative relationship between constraints and operational performance of an organization. The study recommends that factories should be urged to adopt all the practices under supply chain management, adoption of communication channels enhancement among all the staff working in various departments to improve value stream mapping. The study further, recommends that National Gas and Industrialization Co. (GASCO) headquartered in Riyadh city that also it owns seven (7) filling stations and a transportation and distribution fleet in Saudi Arabia should have a skilled LPG manpower to handle issues on machine maintenance and replacement as this will lead to continued production.

Awareness and Attitude of Oral Biopsy among Dental Practitioners in Riyadh City, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

The role of dental practitioners is crucial in diagnosing oral conditions or lesions. To evaluate the awareness and attitude of oral biopsy among the sample dental practitioners in Riyadh City, Saudi Arabia. A survey among 369 dental practitioners assessed their knowledge of oral biopsy using a structured questionnaire, with descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests applied. 31.7% of dental practitioners called specialists for an oral biopsy, with 41.7% citing a lack of experience or skill. Most (40.9%) did not perform biopsies, using incisional methods. Dental practitioners showed knowledge of oral lesions requiring biopsies, but lacked the necessary skills and expertise, leading to referrals to higher centers or specialists.

Are We Overusing Coagulation Studies in the Emergency Department?

This retrospective observational study, conducted in the ED of King Saud University Medical City (KSUMC) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, during July and August of 2021(2 months) examined coagulation profile requests. Patients' demographic data (age and gender), medical and clinical history (presenting complaint, comorbidities, and diagnosis), the use of antiplatelets or anticoagulant agents and laboratory values for PT, APTT, and INR were collected. We calculated the total cost of unnecessary coagulation profile testing based on the independent assessment of two ED consultants. Of 1,754 patients included in the study, 811 (46.2%) were males and 943 (53.8%) were females, with a mean age of 42.1 ± 18.5 years. There were 29 (1.7%) patients with liver disease and 21 (1.2%) patients had thromboembolic disease. The majority of the patients' results were within normal levels of PT (n = 1,409, 80.3%), APTT (n = 1,262, 71.9%), and INR (n = 1,711, 97.4%). Evidence of active bleeding was detected in 29 patients (1.7%). Among patients with bleeding only one had an abnormal INR (3.01) and was on warfarin. Forty-six (2.6%) patients had elevated INR level. Cohen's kappa between the two consultants was recorded at 0.681 (substantial agreement) in their assessment of the appropriateness of coagulation tests requests and both consultants believed that 1,051 tests (59.9%) were not indicated and were unnecessary. The expected annual cost saving if the unnecessary tests were removed would be around SAR 1,897,200 (approximately US$ 503,232) which is about SAR 180000 (US$ 48000)/1000 patients. This study showed that coagulation tests are overused in the ED. More than half of coagulation profile tests in our study population were deemed unnecessary and associated with significant cost. Targeted testing based on specific patient presentation and medical history can guide physicians in wisely choosing who needs coagulation studies.

Perception of drivers toward road safety and factors that cause road accidents in Riyadh city of Saudi Arabia

Injury as a result of road traffic accidents (RTA) is one of the leading causes of death and disability-adjusted life years. Strategies to handle this major public health problem, which has significant consequences for the Saudi economy and families, have been underway for many years but with very little success. This study’s main aim is to determine respondents’ perceptions of traffic safety and the factors that lead to road traffic accidents. It is a cross-sectional study conducted on randomly selected university students, faculty drivers, and visitors using King Saud University’s parking facility. Data were collected from 381 drivers using a pretested questionnaire, which comprises questions intended to attain the study’s objectives. The critical factors affecting traffic safety are public information followed by road maintenance, Garage, vehicle inspection, Road design and equipment, Training of drivers, Sanctions and Police enforcement, Protective devices and vehicle design, and post-accidental care. Road traffic accidents were found to be 39.0% with respondents aged less than 20 years, followed by ages between 20–35 years, which was 34.8%, and only 2.4% above 50 years. The most frequent occurrence of road traffic accidents was angle collision (39.0%) and back collision (18.9%), followed by hitting a fixed object (17.7%). Distraction habits during driving include cell phone usage (56.7%), followed by smoking (24.4%), and eating and drinking (18.9%) while driving. The most common traffic violations were increased speed limit (48.1) and loss of driving license (11.8%). The most common injuries were head (39.0%) and limbs (22.0%). A significant association between drivers’ age during the accident and distraction habits has been found (p < 0.000). The study demonstrated that drinking/eating, cell phone use, and violation of traffic rules are significant reasons for RTA. The findings of this study will contribute to a more comprehensive knowledge of road traffic accidents for the formation of effective strategies and evidence-based policies for the prevention of accidents.

Rehumanize the Streets and Make Them More Smart and Livable in Arab Cities: Case Study: Tahlia Street; Riyadh City, Saudi Arabia

An urban revolution has brought a qualitative change related to the globalization of technologies and the economy. This, in turn, leads to changes in the city’s “human face”. Riyadh is the capital city of Saudi Arabia, which has been impacted by rapid population growth. The significant urban expansion negatively impacted various human characteristics as streets became more devoted to transportation than urban space. Various efforts have been made to re-establish the human aspects of streets by creating built environments and urban spaces. This study aims to determine the physical street features that impact Riyadh city streets’ livability. The study also determines people’s perception of the physical quality of Riyadh’s city streets. An exploratory sequential mixed research method has been adopted. Two separate qualitative and quantitative research approaches have been used to answer the research questions. Through a questionnaire survey and semi-structured interviews, the physical aspects of the case study street were assessed, and physical issues were identified. The finding of this study showed that physical issues such as scarce planting, lack of services for disabled people, traffic congestion, inadequate seating, and inadequate canopies and shelter are deteriorating the Riyadh city street livability. Responding to these physical problems will require measures to be built in municipalities to make Saudi cities more livable. The first practical measure is the provision of facilities such as seating and street furniture, adequate parking spaces, adequate shelter, and services for disabled people. The second is improving the quality of existing facilities, such as planting and landscaping. Lastly, traffic congestion can be controlled by changing Tahlia Street to a transit street that allows only public transport. Overall, the findings of this study will help planners and decision-makers create a livable environment within the framework of the re-humanization of the cities. A collaborative system to support the rehumanization of urban spaces should be adopted by encouraging smart design and improving the open spaces functions to fulfil the community need through a participative method, including the involvement of citizens.

Clinical presentation and management of methanol poisoning outbreaks in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: a retrospective analysis

BackgroundAcute methanol intoxication, whether unintentional or deliberate, necessitates prompt intervention to prevent severe morbidity and mortality. Homemade alcoholic beverages are a frequent source of such poisoning. This retrospective analysis examined two outbreaks of methanol intoxication in Saudi Arabia. It investigated the clinical presentation, implemented management strategies, and any lasting complications (sequelae) associated with these cases. The aim was to assess the potential impact of different treatment modalities and the timeliness of their initiation on patient outcomes.MethodsThis was a retrospective case series of methanol poisoning cases which presented to the adult emergency department (ED) at King Abdulaziz Medical City (KAMC) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. There were two separate outbreaks in the city, the first one was from September 1 to September 10, 2020 and the second one was from May 14 to May 20, 2021. Electronic charts were reviewed, and data were extracted to previously prepared data extraction sheets.ResultFrom the 22 patients who arrived in the ED alive, the most common complaints were nausea or vomiting followed by altered level of consciousness. About 9% from the patient were hypotensive, 36% were tachycardic, 41% were tachypneic and 4% were having SpO2 < 94%. Brain CT was abnormal in 6 patients. Vision impairment was the most common sequalae of methanol poisoning (7 out of 12 patients who were assessed by ophthalmologist, 58%). When the patients were divided based on severity (mild, moderate, severe), nausea or vomiting and loss of consciousness were the most common complaints among the moderate group while loss of consciousness predominated in the severe group. Two patients presented with low blood pressure and were in the sever group. The severe group had a mean Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) of 8. Most of the patients in the severity groups underwent the same management apart from those who died or deposited. Eight patients in the severe group had to be intubated.ConclusionThis study demonstrates the multifaceted clinical presentation of methanol poisoning, culminating in a 17.4% mortality rate. Notably, our findings emphasize the critical role of prompt diagnosis and swift initiation of combined fomepizole therapy and hemodialysis in mitigating mortality and minimizing the potential for chronic visual sequelae associated with methanol poisoning.

Pollution and health risk assessment of co-existing microplastics and heavy metals in urban dust of Riyadh city, Saudi Arabia

Microplastics (MPs) and heavy metals have recently attracted much attention due to their widespread distribution in the environment. Co-occurrence of MPs and heavy metals in dust poses potential health risks for humans. The objectives of this study were to investigate pollution and health risk factors associated with co-occurring MPs and heavy metals in urban dust. Here, 20 dust samples (both indoor and outdoor environments) were collected from different places in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia using sweeping method. The MPs were separated from dust samples via density separation using ZnCl2 Microscopic techniques were used to investigate MPs while inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry was used heavy metals analyses in the collected samples. The results of the study showed that all the collected dust samples were contaminated with MPs of different shapes, sizes, and colors. Fragment-shaped MPs were the most dominant, followed by granules, fibers, and lines, while the majority of the MP particles were red and black. Furthermore, the size distribution analyses demonstrated that particles above 1,000 µm were abundant. Also, the number of MPs was in the range of 20 particles g-1 to 1,052 particles g-1. Human exposure estimations showed that toddlers could inhale more MPs (0.86 MPs particles kg-1 day-1 and 312.93 particles kg-1 year-1) than children, teenagers, and adults. In addition, the concentrations of heavy metals varied from one site to another, however, the average concentrations were lower than their corresponding values in the guidelines (except for Zn). The integrated potential ecological risk in dust samples was characterized as a low-risk criterion. The enrichment factor for Zn in dust samples at all sites was more than 2, indicating a major contamination concern and anthropogenic sources responsible for the existence of Zn. The estimated hazard quotient indicates that children and adults are saved from the adverse effects of dust inhalation in the studied area. These findings could serve as a preliminary step for efficient pollution management and environmental quality maintenance in Riyadh.

E-cigarette use, psychological distress, and daily activity participation among adults in Riyadh.

The prevalence of e-cigarettes is significantly increasing among adults as an alternative method to tobacco smoking. However, the chemical products of e-cigarettes have an influence on human general health. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the association between e-cigarette use and psychological distress as well as participation in daily activities among adults in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. It also evaluates the demographic profile and usage patterns of e-cigarette users. This cross-sectional study involved 396 e-cigarette smokers in Riyadh city. An online survey was administered, including questions about smoking patterns and the perceived effects of e-cigarettes on activities of daily living. Additionally, mental health were assessed using the Kessler 6 scale. Most of the participants were educated young males (61.4%). About 29.5% of the participants reported using e-cigarettes primarily to quit tobacco cigarettes. In addition, e-cigarette usage was significantly associated with lower participation in activities of daily living and higher psychological distress. This study found that many e-cigarette users are well-educated young individuals who use e-cigarettes as a substitute for traditional cigarettes. However, the study also revealed that using e-cigarettes is associated with negative effects on smokers' daily activities and mental health.

Evaluation of the implementation of transition programs for students with intellectual disability in high schools in Saudi Arabia

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the implementation of transition programs for students with intellectual disability served in special high school institutes and self-contained classroom programs in general education high schools, and their challenges. We specifically explore special education teachers’ support for implementing the transition programs for students with intellectual disability in these two settings. Further, this study investigated the differences in teachers’ support for implementing the transition programs based on factors including teachers’ gender, educational level, years of experience, and previous attendance of a course or training program on transition programs. A questionnaire was used to collect data from 249 male and female special education teachers in the cities of Riyadh, Makkah, Al-Ahsa, and Dammam. The results showed that while transition programs are implemented with students with intellectual disability in special high school institutes and self-contained classroom programs in general education high schools there are significant obstacles to their implementation. However, there were no differences in special education teachers’ support for implementing the transition programs based on their demographic characteristics. Implications for supporting and implementing transition programs, developing strategies, enacting laws and regulations, establishing partnerships, and cooperating with community institutions to ensure a successful transition are discussed.

The Correlation Between Vitamin D Levels and the Glycemic Marker HbA1c and Lipid Profile in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Study at the King Saud Medical City, Riyadh.

Background and objective Vitamin D, a fat-soluble vitaminalso called the sunshine vitamin, is produced in plants, and animals when exposed to sunlight. It plays a crucial role in musculoskeletal development, immune system regulation, and glucose metabolism, thereby reducing the risk of diabetes. This study aimed to investigate the association of vitamin D levels with glycemic control markers [glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c)] and lipid profile, as well as sociodemographic factors and comorbidities. Methodology A cross-sectional study was conducted at the King Saud Medical City in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, among adult diabetic patients aged 20 years and above. The sociodemographic characteristics, vitamin D levels, HbA1c, and lipid profilesof 472 participantswere studied. Data were analyzed using SPSS Statisticsversion 27 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY). Results The majority of the participants were women (n=296, 62.7%); the mean age of the cohort was 56.5 ±13.13 years. Most participants were Saudi nationals (n=361, 76.5%). Lab tests revealed vitamin D deficiency (71.41 ±36.88 nmol/l) and elevated HbA1c(9.49 ±9.85%) in the cohort. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels were higher than normal (2.71 ±4.26 mmol/l), while high-density lipoprotein (HDL) was slightly lower (1.23 ±0.39 mmol/l). Bivariate correlations showed weak negative and positive associations between vitamin D and HbA1c(r=-0.093, p<0.05) and HDL (r=0.114, p<0.05), respectively. HbA1ccorrelated positively with triglycerides (r=0.168, p<0.01). Conclusions We found an association between deficiency of vitamin D and levels of HbA1cand lipid profile in type 2 diabetes patients. The association was marked by low vitamin D levels and characterized by high HbA1c, LDL cholesterol, and lipid profile. Elevated HbA1c, LDL cholesterol, and triglyceride levels suggested vitamin D's role in lipid homeostasis. Variations in biomarker levels across sociodemographic factors highlight the needfor personalized interventions for diabetes prevention and management.

Urban Development in Riyadh: Aligning with Saudi Vision 2030 for Enhanced Quality of Life

Saudi Urban Development is on the cards, It has been aligned with Vision 2030, since 2016, it refers to the United Nations agenda crafted to meet the needs not only for the present population, rather it guarantees optimum utilisation of resources and preserving them for future generations. The urban development in Saudi Arabia started with a comprehensive idea for tracking its progress on sustainable urban development. The sustainable urban development should be aligned with the Saudi vision 2030, so that the aim and objectives of the vision 2030 can be achieved and better quality of life in the cities can be provided to the residents. To understand this, there is a dire need to investigate the role of built environment on urban quality of life. Previous researches in this area were scarce, Therefore, there is a need to research the above-mentioned constructs in the context of Saudi vision 2030. The research design is cross sectional and collects the data from the population resides in the city of Riyadh (KSA). Responses (n=705) were collected in order to test the model with built environment as independent and urban quality of life as dependent construct. Being an empirical study, the analysis of measurement and structural model was undertaken. On the basis of the findings, implications for improving Quality of life through urban planning for better built environments were also presented. The research makes a contribution by suggesting methods for reducing noise, creating aesthetically beautiful structures and public areas according to the requirements and preferences of the locals, and lowering socio-spatial disparities while supporting housing and mobility for disadvantaged groups.

Cardiovascular Morbidity in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Single-Center Retrospective Study.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune inflammatory condition affecting multiple systems. Cardiovascular morbidity is a significant concern, with around 25% of SLE patients experiencing cardiac complications. This study aims to determine the prevalence of cardiovascular morbidity in SLE patients in King Fahad Medical City (KFMC) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This retrospective record-based research was conducted at KFMC from January 2015 to October 2023. A review of the medical files of all SLE patients was accomplished. The vast majority of the patients (90.9%) were females. The mean age for the patients was 36.5 years. The most common comorbidities were lupus nephritis (34.6%), hypothyroidism (18.4%), and anti-phospholipid syndrome (9.2%). The most commonly used medications were hydroxychloroquine (81.8%), corticosteroids (prednisolone) (43.0%), and mycophenolate mofetil (27.9%). Around 45.2% (n= 176) of the patients with SLE developed cardiovascular complications. The most commonly reported cardiovascular diseases that developed after diagnosing patients with SLE were hypertension (22.4%), valvular heart diseases (13.2%), and dyslipidemia (9.2%). The study also found that anti-dsDNA antibodies can reduce the likelihood of developing hypertension by 40%. This research contributes to the medical literature on SLE and sets the stage for future research on personalized healthcare strategies for managing SLE and its complications. This study highlights that a considerable proportion of SLE patients(~50%) develop cardiovascular complications, with hypertension, valvular heart diseases, and dyslipidemia being the most common. We also discovered that anti-double-stranded deoxyribonucleic acid antibodies (Anti-dsDNA) reduce the likelihood of developing hypertension.

Sleep, Caffeine, BMI, and Pressure Pain Threshold in Temporomandibular Disorder Patients: An Observational Study.

Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) represent a multifactorial condition involving a multitude of symptoms of the temporomandibular joint that emanates a series of distress. Understanding the relationship between these lifestyle factors and pain perception in TMD patients is essential for optimizing their management and care. This study delves into the intricate interplay between sleep, caffeine consumption, body mass index (BMI), and the potential effect on pressurepain threshold (PPT) values among individuals with TMDs. This is an observational study. Data were collected from a convenient sample of female patients at a single centerin Riyadh city, between the ages of 20 and 50 years. The variables collected were based on an operator-designed questionnaire, the symptom questionnaire, and the Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (DC/TMD). A total of 139 participants were included in the study, appraising the occurrence of TMD and pain as per reports of caffeine intake and sleep duration. The observed outcomes indicate that the amount of sleep has a significant effect on the PPT values in TMD patients. This study highlights the substantial impact of sleep duration on lowering PPT values in individuals with TMDs. The findings highlight the importance of considering sleep duration and caffeine intake in the comprehensive management of TMD patients. There was no effect of BMI on this particular sample. This study shows a positive correlation between sleep and pain and TMD, caffeine, and pain. A deeper understanding of these relationships could pave the way for more effective pain management strategies and personalized treatment approaches tailored to the unique needs of TMD patients. BMI had no effect.

Spatial Urban Analysis of Attractions in Riyadh City Using Location-Based Social Network Data (LBSNs)

With the proliferation of technology and the advancement of mobile devices and the internet, the use of Location-Based Social Networks (LBSNs) has become popular in urban communities. That providing a rich source of data for analyzing social and urban behaviour in cities. Which allows for the tracking of urban interaction patterns and human activity to understand visitor behaviour in these places. This paper aims to identify spatial patterns and the distribution the attractions using LBSNs. Density estimation, spatial direction monitoring, and identification of spatial correlation of attractions within Riyadh city were conducted. Heat maps were utilized to reveal the relative density of attraction spots in Riyadh. On the other hand, the distribution trend was analysed using the SDE tool. Moreover, Moran's I index was employed to measure the spatial correlation of attractions within the city. The results of directional and density analysis of attractions indicate a tendency for attraction spots to concentrate in the city centre. Additionally, the results reflect variations between types of places across the studied categories, including parks, shopping centres, entertainment venues, and tourist attractions. The Moran index indicates spatial correlation for the attractions. Overall, LBSNs can be considered an additional and reliable source of big data for social media to monitor urban places and interactions within the city. Future integration of temporal analysis with spatial analysis can be pursued to identify spatiotemporal changes over time. Key words: GIS, Spatial Analysis, LBSNs, Google maps.