Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University
Recent publications
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have enabled numerous inventive solutions to multiple problems, considerably facilitating our daily lives; however, UAVs frequently rely on an open wireless channel for communication, making them susceptible to cyber-physical threats. Also, UAVs cannot execute complicated cryptographic algorithms due to their limited onboard computing capabilities. Balancing high-security levels and minimum computation costs is imperative when developing a security solution for UAVs. Consequently, several proxy signature schemes have been proposed in the literature to fulfil these requirements. Nevertheless, many of these solutions face the issue of high computation costs, and some exhibit security vulnerabilities that could not be more feasible options for UAV communication. Considering these constraints in mind, in this article, we introduce an improvised certificate-based proxy signature scheme (ICPS), which leverages the concept of hyperelliptic curve cryptography (HECC) to meet the security and efficiency requirements of UAV networks. The proposed ICPS scheme offers a range of notable features, including its ability to address key escrow and secret key distribution issues. The proposed ICPS scheme's security hardness has been evaluated using the widely known security tool, the random oracle model (ROM), proving its resilience against known and unknown cybersecurity threats. Finally, this study conducts a performance comparison of the proposed scheme against existing schemes, emphasizing its outstanding cost-efficiency. Notably, the computation cost is measured at 5.3536 ms and the communication cost at 1120 bits, substantially lower than relevant existing schemes.
The increasing use of medicinal plants in traditional and modern therapies necessitates thorough toxicological evaluations to ensure their safety. Chrozophora genus includes 7-8 species that belong to the Euphorbiaceae family, distributed in Pakistan, India, West Africa, and the Mediterranean with four species found in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). This study evaluates the subacute toxicity of the ethyl acetate extract (EtOAcE) of Chrozophora tinctoria in male and female rats. Over 14 days, rats were daily administered the extract at doses of 50, 100, and 200 mg. Mortality was observed at a rate of one rat per group. Female rats showed a significant reduction in body weight, while organ weights remained unaffected. Kidney function tests revealed significant increases in bilirubin and creatinine levels in male rats at 200 mg, and uric acid levels in female rats at the same dosage. Liver enzyme analysis indicated significant elevations in ALP, ALT, and GGT levels in both sexes at various dosages. Glucose levels increased significantly in female rats at 200 mg/kg, with no significant changes in cortisol levels in either sex. Histopathological examinations demonstrated notable abnormalities in liver, kidney, spleen, and small intestine tissues. These data demonstrate the essentiality of careful evaluation and monitoring when considering C. tinctoria for medicinal use, highlighting the need for further studies on its long-term safety and therapeutic index.
We establish the existence of infinitely many nonnegative solutions to the following nonlocal elliptic partial differential equation with singularity: (−Δ)p(·)su=λ|u|γ(x)−1u+f(x,u)inΩ,u=0inℝN∖Ω, {\displaystyle \begin{array}{cc}\hfill {\left(-\Delta \right)}_{p\left(\cdotp \right)}^su& =\frac{\lambda }{{\left|u\right|}^{\gamma (x)-1}u}+f\left(x,u\right)\kern0.3em \mathrm{in}\kern0.3em \Omega, \hfill \\ {}\hfill u& =0\kern0.3em \mathrm{in}\kern0.3em {\mathbb{R}}^N\setminus \Omega, \hfill \end{array}} where Ω⊂ℝNΩRN \Omega \subset {\mathbb{R}}^N is a smooth bounded domain with N≥2N2 N\ge 2 . The parameters in the equation are as follows: λ>0λ>0 \lambda >0 is a positive constant, s∈(0,1)s(0,1) s\in \left(0,1\right) is a fixed parameter, γ:Ω‾→(0,1)γ:Ω(0,1) \gamma :\overline{\Omega}\to \left(0,1\right) is a continuous function, N>sp(x,y)N>sp(x,y) N> sp\left(x,y\right) for all (x,y)∈Ω‾×Ω‾(x,y)Ω×Ω \left(x,y\right)\in \overline{\Omega}\times \overline{\Omega} , and (−Δ)p(·)s(Δ)p()s {\left(-\Delta \right)}_{p\left(\cdotp \right)}^s is the fractional p(·)p() p\left(\cdotp \right) ‐Laplacian operator with a variable exponent. The nonlinearity f(x,u)f(x,u) f\left(x,u\right) is a Carathéodory function satisfying f≥0f0 f\ge 0 and certain growth conditions. Furthermore, we establish a uniform L∞(Ω‾)L(Ω) {L}^{\infty}\left(\overline{\Omega}\right) estimate for the solution(s) using the Moser iteration technique.
Ensuring usability is essential in software systems, and various testing methods are employed for this purpose. Expert-based inspection methods, like Cognitive Walkthrough (CW) and Heuristic Evaluation (HE), are widely used to identify usability issues. However, these methods can be time-consuming, highlighting the need to assess their effectiveness in usability evaluation. The objective of this study is to conduct a comparative analysis of two expert-based usability evaluation methods, CW and HE, as applied to Absher’s website and mobile application, the most widely used governmental system in Saudi Arabia. Five independent evaluators applied these methods, and an in-depth comparison was made on the identified usability issues, their severity, and the corresponding usability attributes. HE identified a total of 83 issues, while CW identified 58, with HE being more effective at detecting major usability problems and CW excelling in identifying catastrophic issues. In terms of usability attributes, HE identified more issues related to effectiveness, efficiency, and errors, while CW detected a higher number of learnability problems. Both methods performed similarly in identifying memorability issues. This study offers insights into the strengths and limitations of both CW and HE, contributing valuable guidance on selecting the appropriate usability evaluation method based on the system’s context.
Halide-based double-perovskites have shown significant promise as compounds that can contribute to producing renewable energy. Their unique properties and characteristics allow them to address the issues of energy shortages. This study examined the physical properties of A2AuSbZ6 (A = Na, K, and Z = F, Cl) double perovskite halides, using first-principles calculations, which could apply to renewable energy devices. Thermoelectric and solar cell devices could benefit from these investigations. Goldschmidt's tolerance and octahedral factors demonstrate the structural stability of the studied halides. The values for the band gap of Na2AuSbF6, Na2AuSbCl6, K2AuSbF6, and K2AuSbCl6 are 1.30, 0.67, 1.26, and 0.96 eV, respectively. We have investigated the optical properties of incoming photons in the 0–6 eV energy range. The compounds under investigation exhibit transparency, significant light absorption, and minimal loss in the visible spectrum. Furthermore, the transport properties have been computed to demonstrate their potential for thermoelectric applications. The investigated perovskites exhibit relatively high ZT and power factor values. These findings indicate that these perovskites will greatly benefit future green energy sources.
This study explored the impact of western diet (WD) on a ligature-induced periodontitis (PD) model. After either control diet (CD) or WD feeding for 16 weeks, male Wistar rats were allocated in six groups (n = 6). The first and second groups had no PD. The third and fourth groups had ligature-induced PD for 10 days, while the fifth and sixth groups had ligature-induced PD for 10 days, followed by ligature removal healing period for another 10 days. The CD contained 13.71% protein, 75.98% carbohydrate, and 10.31% fat, though WD composed of 14.7% protein, 40.7% carbohydrate, and 44.6% fat. After clinical evaluation, the maxillary alveolar bone and gingival tissues were collected for morphometric, microstructural, histological, and gene expression analyses. There were significant increases in the gingival bleeding index, periodontal probing depth, and tooth mobility in WD animals with PD and in the healing groups. The WD groups had a greater alveolar crest height, indicating greater bone resorption. Disruption of the bone microarchitecture by PD was exacerbated in WD-fed animals. The histological evaluation demonstrated a greater extent of gingival inflammation in the PD groups. The Tnf, Il6, Ctsk, and Tnfsf11/RANKL gene expression levels were increased in the WD groups, while the Bglap and Hif1a gene expression levels were decreased in the WD groups. Findings of the study are compelling preclinical evidence that WD deteriorates periodontal health and exacerbates periodontal disease and alveolar bone loss in experimental animals. Future clinical research is warranted to translate these preclinical findings.
Background and Aim: One Health (OH) is an interdisciplinary framework integrating human, animal, and environmental health to address complex health challenges such as zoonotic diseases and antimicrobial resistance. Despite global adoption, the OH approach in Saudi Arabia lacks comprehensive bibliometric evaluation to reveal trends, collaborations, and research domains. This study aims to provide a bibliometric review of OH research in Saudi Arabia to identify gaps and propose improvements. Materials and Methods: A systematic bibliometric analysis was conducted on OH-related publications from 2011 to 2024. Data were sourced from seven international databases, including Scopus and PubMed. Studies were filtered using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines to include those focusing on OH perspectives within Saudi Arabia. Bibliometric tools like VOSviewer and Biblioshiny were employed to analyze publication trends, citation patterns, and thematic areas. Results: A total of 178 publications were analyzed. The Ministry of Health, King Saud University, and King Abdulaziz University emerged as leading contributors. Key themes identified included zoonotic diseases, environmental health, and antimicrobial resistance. The Saudi Medical Journal and the Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences were primary publication platforms. Citations peaked in 2012, largely due to seminal work on Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus. Collaboration patterns showed that domestic partnerships outperformed regional and international collaborations in terms of output, though the latter had higher citation averages. Riyadh was identified as the most productive region. Conclusion: The analysis highlights Saudi Arabia’s growing contributions to OH research, emphasizing the importance of inter-sectoral collaboration. However, challenges remain in aligning research outputs with practical applications, particularly in disease surveillance and public awareness. Strengthening partnerships, enhancing resource allocation, and addressing underrepresented regions are critical for advancing OH implementation. Keywords: antimicrobial resistance, bibliometric analysis, One Health, Saudi Arabia, zoonotic diseases.
It is well established that micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), as a dominant form of business globally, undoubtedly significantly contribute to national economies and the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Nonetheless, how family-owned MSMEs contribute to the SDGs (sustainability performance) is a relatively less explored domain. This study investigates the role of family governance practices and family social capital in achieving economic, social, and environmental goals, corresponding to SDGs 8, 11, and 13, respectively. We collected data from 421 family MSMEs through survey questionnaires. We employed a partial least squares approach to structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to test the research hypotheses and analyzed the data in SmartPLS4 software. The findings revealed that effective family governance practices in family MSMEs positively impact economic, social, and environmental SDGs, while well-managed family social capital catalyzes this significant relationship. This implies that to effectively contribute to the SDGs, the owner family needs to establish an effective family gov-ernance mechanism and also manage and capitalize on its social capital.
This study details the design and implementation of an intelligent HVAC optimization system in the Shenzhen Qianhai Smart Community, utilizing advanced machine learning methods like Graph Attention Networks (GATs) and stacking ensemble learning. A comprehensive sensor network monitored temperature, humidity, occupancy, and air quality, allowing for real-time data collection and responsive control. Data preprocessing involved Z-score normalization and feature engineering to improve model accuracy. The system employed Graph construction based on Pearson Correlation Coefficients, resulting in quality embeddings for the GATs. The stacking ensemble combined Gradient Boosting Machines, Neural Networks, and Random Forests, achieving a high Area Under the Curve (AUC) of 0.93. The deployment led to a 15% reduction in energy consumption and an increase in occupant satisfaction. Comparative analysis shows the strength of the GATs and ensemble learning approach over existing systems. This case study validates the methodology and presents a scalable model for energy optimization in smart urban settings. Future work will focus on expanding the system to more communities, integrating renewable energy, and improving real-time capabilities with reinforcement learning.
Background Workplace violence (WPV) threatens the safety and well-being of healthcare providers and leads to significant organizational consequences, including staff burnout, reduced productivity, and high turnover rates. At the societal level, it reduces the quality of care, increases medical errors, and imposes a substantial economic burden on healthcare systems and communities. Despite the global attention to WPV, systematic reviews specifically addressing WPV across all three professions—physicians, pharmacists, and nurses—and in various healthcare settings in Saudi Arabia are lacking. This review examines the prevalence, contributing factors, types, sources, potential causes, reactions, and impact of WPV against HCPs in Saudi Arabia. Methods We conducted a systematic search of electronic databases from January 2010 to November 2024 and reviewed reference lists of included studies focusing on WPV against physicians, pharmacists, and nurses in Saudi Arabia. Two researchers independently screened studies for inclusion, resolved discrepancies through discussion, and extracted data in duplicate. The quality of included studies was assessed using critical appraisal tools for cross-sectional studies. Results A total of 42 studies were reviewed using the AXIS tool for cross-sectional studies. The prevalence of WPV against HCPs ranged from 26% to 90.7%. This range reflects overall WPV prevalence across various studies, encompassing different healthcare settings and professional groups. Verbal violence was the most reported type (19.7–98.2%), followed by threats (12–74.4%), physical violence (3–79%), and sexual violence (1.9–76.5%). Perpetrators were predominantly male, with patients (7.1–99.3%) and their relatives or friends (6.6–91%) as the primary sources. Contributing factors of WPV included gender, age, profession, workload, shift patterns, nationality, experience, and inadequate training. Causes included staff shortages, overcrowding, long waiting times, miscommunication, unmet patient demands, insufficient penalties, and inadequate security measures. Responses to WPV varied, with some HCPs reporting incidents and others taking no action. The impact on HCPs included psychological distress, reduced work quality, and occasional job resignation. Conclusion The high prevalence of WPV against HCPs in Saudi Arabia highlights the urgent need for enhanced protective measures, increased awareness of WPV policies, and improved reporting systems. Understanding the factors contributing to WPV can inform targeted intervention programs to foster safer healthcare environments.
Background Social inequalities contribute to health disparities. This study aimed to map evidence on early childhood caries (ECC) related to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 10 (SDG 10). Methods A scoping review was conducted in May 2024 following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. A literature search was performed in PubMed, Web of Science, and CINAHL for studies published in English and addressing population level social inequalities. Studies measuring individual level of social inequalities were excluded as they were covered by other SDGs. However, studies incorporating individual measures as additional measures of population level social inequality were included. Retrieved papers were summarized, inductively analysed and a conceptual framework linking SDG 10 was developed. Results Of 452 studies retrieved, 42 met the inclusion criteria. Studies measured inequality among groups (deprivation, family income, indigenous communities, ethnicity, minority status) [14 studies], institutions (type of school, nursery or school facility, school poverty index, public primary health care units) [five studies], and inequality in communities (neighbourhood socio-economic status, Human Development Index, employment rate, income inequality, sanitary sewer and water supply, residents/household ratio, urban vs rural vs remote rural, accessibility index, location index, the slope index of inequality) [24 studies]. These levels of social inequalities were linked to higher prevalence of ECC; social and economic policies contributed to widening inequalities in ECC severity; and although effective interventions targeted at at-risk populations could reduce dental health disparities, study interventions differed by deprivation status. Six studies (14.3%) addressed SDG 10.1, 33 (78.6%) addressed SDG 10.2, 11 (26.2%) addressed SDG 10.3, and three (7.1%) addressed SDG 10.4. Fourteen studies (33.3%) addressed a combination of SDGs. The conceptual framework highlights the role of structural inequalities stemming from the cumulative impact of institutional decisions and systemic inequalities. Conclusion This scoping review underscores the profound influence of social inequality on ECC through interactions between multi-level factors. Further research is needed to explore the links between ECC and other SDG 10 targets, especially in low- and lower-middle-income countries.
This study examined the Summer Engineering Experience for Kids (SEEK) program offered by the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), to understand the experiences of SEEK students and mentors. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected through a mixed-methods survey from 266 SEEK participants. The analysis revealed that race and gender could play a role in the participants’ experiences. Black students showed more interest in STEM fields as a result of participating in SEEK, as it influenced their career decisions, influenced their decision to participate in STEM fields, and pursue engineering careers. In terms of gender, the program had a more significant impact on career decisions for male students than for female students. The qualitative results also showed that Black male students valued the experiences and knowledge they gained from SEEK, whereas Black female students highlighted the sense of community and learning offered by SEEK. With respect to mentors, Black males viewed mentorship as crucial for their career development, while Black female mentors valued meaningful connections, practical learning, and skill development. The study indicated that exposure to STEM can foster a learning mindset and resilience, equip students with various STEM-related knowledge and experience, and encourage long-term engagement with STEM fields. Using the matrix proposed in this study, it was concluded that male participants externalized their engagement with STEM by valuing the knowledge they gained and its influence on their career and college decisions. In contrast, female participants internalized their engagement with STEM, valuing networking and positive experiences. It is necessary for female participants to externalize their interest in and engagement with STEM to address the lack of diversity in STEM fields.
Background Nodular fasciitis (NF), also known as pseudosarcoma fasciitis, is defined as a benign, self-limiting, vascular, or fibrovascular proliferation. It is commonly found on the trunk and upper extremities. NF is rarely found in the orbit and periorbital regions, with only a few case studies reported since it was initially described by Font et al. in 1966. NF usually presents as a rapidly growing solitary tumor and is often mistaken for a sarcoma due to its high cellularity and increased mitotic activity. Case presentation We present a case of NF in a 41-year-old Saudi man with a 1-year history of a gradually enlarging left medial subbrow mass in the left eye. The mass was not associated with pain, visual disturbances, double vision, or a history of trauma. An external ophthalmic examination revealed a firm, oval mass over the nasal aspect of the superior orbital rim of the left eye. The mass was non-tender, measured 1 × 2 cm in diameter, and fixed to deep tissues. Computed tomography (CT) with contrast revealed a well-demarcated left para-orbital soft tissue round lesion with peripheral enhancement occupying the nasal aspect of the superior orbital rim above the inner canthus. Debulking and incisional biopsies were performed, and the histopathological findings were consistent with those of NF. Conclusions NF is a rare benign tumor that infrequently presents in the periorbital region. It lacks distinctive features for a definitive diagnosis and should be suspected when imaging results are inconclusive. Management typically involves complete local excision or debulking.
The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of plyometric training on psychological and physical performance parameters among rugby and soccer players. A total of sixty players were recruited from rugby and soccer university teams. All the players participated in six-weeks of plyometric exercise training three times a week. Psychological parameters were measured by Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, Trait Sport-Confidence Inventory, short-form Buss-Perry Aggression Questionnaire, and Competitive Sport Anxiety Inventory-2. The physical performance parameters were measured by 20-m sprint test, Illinois agility run test, Sargent jump test, and sit-up test. Pre-and post-test measurements were taken. A paired t-test (two-tailed) was employed to assess the significant differences between pre and post-test for psychological and physical performance parameters. Result showed improvements in psychological and physical fitness performance variables after the intervention. However, aggression has significant difference (t = 2.87, p = .012) between pre-and post-test in rugby players. Soccer players demonstrated significant differences between pre-and post-tests in confidence (t = −2.99, p = .010) and endurance (t = −4.37, p = .001). Plyometric training has significant potential to enhance the psychological and physical performance parameters in rugby and soccer players. To explore the long-term psychological and physical benefits of plyometric training and identify individual factors that influence these outcomes, further research is demanded.
Patients with liver cirrhosis often experience factors such as malnutrition and lack of exercise, leading to reduced quality of life. Insufficient social support is related to self-management in patients with chronic diseases. Therefore, this study explores the mediating role of social support in the relationship between self-management and quality of life, analyzing the impact of exercise frequency and malnutrition risk assessment on social support, self-management, and quality of life. Using a convenience sampling method, cross-sectional data were collected from 257 patients with liver cirrhosis at the infectious disease department of a tertiary hospital in Zunyi, China, from 2021 to 2022. The patients were evaluated using a demographic questionnaire, the Self-Management Behavior Scale for Liver Cirrhosis Patients, the Social Support Rating Scale (SSRS), the Chronic Liver Disease Questionnaire (CLDQ), and the Royal Free Hospital Nutritional Prioritizing Tool (RFH-NPT). Data were analyzed using SPSS and PROCESS software.Patients in the decompensated stage of liver cirrhosis and those classified in Child–Pugh class B/C had lower scores in self-management, quality of life, and social support compared to patients in the compensated stage of liver cirrhosis and those classified in Child–Pugh Class A. Quality of life was positively correlated with both social support and self-management (r = 0.668, r = 0.665, both P < 0.001). Mediation analysis showed that self-management had a direct predictive effect on quality of life. Social support had a mediating effect between self-management and quality of life, with an indirect effect of 0.489 (95% CI: 0.362, 0.629), accounting for 40.58% of the total effect. Exercise frequency and malnutrition risk assessment were independent influencing factors for social support, self-management, and quality of life. In the regression model, after excluding confounding factors, Model I explained 14% of the variance in quality of life due to control variables, Model II explained 49.5%, and when social support was added, Model III explained 56.9% of the variance in quality of life. Under the mediating role of social support, self-management can improve quality of life. Exercise frequency and malnutrition risk assessment, as independent influencing factors, also modulate social support and self-management. These findings underscore the importance of strengthening social support and developing self-management programs targeting exercise and nutrition to enhance the quality of life in patients with liver cirrhosis.
In the present work, the concentration of Ba-additive played a significant role in advancing the dielectric properties and photo-removal activity of ZnO semiconductor for methylene blue dye. Ba doped ZnO semiconductor with different doping concentrations (Zn1−xBaxO, x = 0.003, 0.005, 0.007 and 0.009 wt%) were grown by solid-state reaction route. The x-ray diffraction (XRD) data confirmed the formation of the wurtzite structure of ZnO along with the presence of BaO-based secondary phase (SP). The XRD peak intensity related to the SP was found to increase with the increase of Ba concentration. Microstructural analyses through scanning electron microscope (SEM) images and energy-dispersive x-ray analysis (EDS) showed that with the addition of Ba, a gradual increase in the grain size was observed. Furthermore, SP segregated at the grain boundary and showed an increasing trend with doping. The emergence of secondary phases with Ba concentration was confirmed with the help of supplementary spectroscopic characterizations including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and UV–vis diffuse reflectance. The presence of BaO secondary phase has shown a benefit effect on the dielectric and photodegradation properties of ZnO material. The remarkable resistance reduction suggested that the higher Ba concentrations significantly enhance charge carrier mobility. For wastewater treatment uses, BZO9 photocatalyst exhibited a perfect degradation efficiency of 90.1% for methylene blue (MB) removal after 210 min of visible light illumination.
Introduction Dystonia is a prevalent movement disorder characterized by involuntary muscle contractions, and cervical dystonia is among the most common forms. This report presents a rare case of severe isolated cervical dystonia in a young male patient that progressed to type IV atlantoaxial rotatory subluxation, highlighting the clinical presentation and diagnostic challenges associated with this condition. Case Description A 27-year-old male patient presented with abnormal head posture and severe cervical pain. Clinical examinations revealed severe cervical muscle spasms and a unique head posture, as if he was looking at the tip of his right shoulder. Radiological evaluation revealed a type IV atlantoaxial rotatory subluxation. Despite initial attempt of close reduction under anesthesia, recurrence of the subluxation occurred, and surgical intervention was necessary. Conclusion This case underscores the importance of thorough clinical evaluation and imaging in the diagnosis of isolated cervical dystonia, particularly given its potential to present with atypical features. These findings suggest that early recognition and intervention may be critical for preventing complications and improving patient outcomes.
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8,261 members
Iqbal Bukhari
  • Department of Dermatology
Ashutosh Kumar Rai
  • Department of Biochemistry
Ayman A. El-Badry
  • Clinical Microbiology
Hiba Omer
  • College of Applied Medical Science
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Dammam, Saudi Arabia
Head of institution
Dr. Abdullah Mohammed Alrubaish