Explorative laparotomy of cecal volvulus in a pediatric patient. A case report and review of literature.

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: Cecal volvulus is a rare intestinal pathology that occurs due to abnormal cecum mobility associated with spectrum of complications. It is usually manifested in adults. However, on extremely rare occasions, it occurs in pediatrics. We presented a case of cecal volvulus demonstrating the significance of early diagnosis and treatment to reach successful outcomes. CASE PRESENTATION: A 12 year old boy who presented to the emergency department for clinical evaluation for acute abdomen. History and clinical examination was suggestive of acute bowel obstruction. Abdominal x-ray showed a large, distended gas filled viscus with base pointed towards the right lower quadrant. On the bases of radiological investigations, diagnosis of cecal volvolus made. Accordingly, the patient underwent emergency exploratory laparotomy. The post operative course was uneventful and was discharged in stable condition. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: Cecal volvulus is an extremely rare manifestation of intestinal obstruction and malrotation. The clinical presentation of cecal volvulus depending on the duration and extent of the involvement of cecal malrotation The exact pathogenesis of cecal volvulus is unclear. However the association of the embryological development of the colon, affects the attachment to the posterior parietal peritoneum after ordinary anatomical rotation of 270°. The core-stone management of cecal volvulus is surgical approach. CONCLUSION: Cecal volvulus requires a high index of suspicion and delicate care by the pediatric surgeon as it is considered an extremely rare entity in this age group. We highlighted the significance of early diagnosis, surgical treatment and the possibility of developing postoperative complications if left untreated.

Barriers and Facilitators of Artificial Intelligence in Family Medicine: An Empirical Study With Physicians in Saudi Arabia.

BACKGROUND: Artificial intelligence (AI) is a novel technology that has been widely acknowledged for its potential to improve the processes' efficiency across industries. However, its barriers and facilitators in healthcare are not completely understood due to its novel nature. STUDY PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to explore the intricate landscape of AI use in family medicine, aiming to uncover the factors that either hinder or enable its successful adoption. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey design is adopted in this study. The questionnaire included 10 factors (performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, facilitating conditions, behavioral intention, trust, perceived privacy risk, personal innovativeness, ethical concerns, and facilitators) affecting the acceptance of AI. A total of 157 family physicians participated in the online survey. RESULTS: Effort expectancy (µ = 3.85) and facilitating conditions (µ = 3.77) were identified to be strong influence factors. Access to data (µ = 4.33), increased computing power (µ = 3.92), and telemedicine (µ = 3.78) were identified as major facilitators; regulatory support (µ = 2.29) and interoperability standards (µ = 2.71) were identified as barriers along with privacy and ethical concerns. Younger individuals tend to have more positive attitudes and expectations toward AI-enabled assistants compared to older participants (p < .05). Perceived privacy risk is negatively correlated with all factors. CONCLUSION: Although there are various barriers and concerns regarding the use of AI in healthcare, the preference for AI use in healthcare, especially family medicine, is increasing.

Food Allergy: Knowledge and Attitude of Primary School Teachers in Makkah Region, Saudi Arabia.

Food allergy is a serious and potentially life-threatening medical condition that affects both adults and children. School teachers are considered to be among the first line of defense in identifying and responding to such situations, as 22% of food allergic reactions occur in schools. It is, therefore, important to understand the knowledge and attitudes of school teachers toward food allergy. This study is a descriptive, cross-sectional investigation conducted using an online questionnaire from December 2022 to February 2023. We collected data from 413 primary school teachers in Makkah region, Saudi Arabia. SPSS version 21 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY) was used to analyze the data. Out of 413 teachers who met the inclusion criteria, only 14.5% demonstrated good awareness levels (scoring above 60% on the knowledge questionnaire) regarding food allergy, with young teachers making up the highest proportion as 26.1% of younger teachers had good awareness levels compared to 8.8% of teachers aged 51-60 years (p = 0.012). Additionally, 46.7% of the teachers knew the symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, and only 16.7% knew that they should use an epinephrine pen as the first step in managing a severe allergic reaction. School teachers have insufficient knowledge about food allergies, underscoring the importance of establishing school policies to handle food allergies. Such policies should encompass the adoption of a comprehensive food allergy action plan, training programs for school personnel, and educational campaigns.

Transverse testicular ectopia: two case reports and literature review.

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: Transverse Testicular Ectopia (TTE) is characterized by the presence of testis in the hemiscrotum, which can be associated with a broad spectrum of complications. It is usually manifested in pediatrics. However, on rare occasions, it can occur in adults. The diagnosis is confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We present two cases of Transverse Testicular Ectopia (TTE), demonstrating the significance of early diagnosis and treatment to reach optimal outcomes. CASE PRESENTATION: We reported two patients with common features suggestive of Transverse Testicular Ectopia (TTE). Case 1 had open surgery; his left testis was impalpable, whereas his right side was palpable. Case 2 had undergone laparoscopy surgery, and his right and left spermatic cord was discovered on the right side. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: Transverse Testicular Ectopia (TTE) is classified according to clinical presentation; Type 1 is associated with inguinal hernia ranging between 40 and 50 %. Type 2 is related to persistent mullerian duct syndrome (PMDS), with a rate of 30 %. Type 3 is associated with genital anomalies and azoospermia, with a rate of 20 %. The pathogenesis is unclear. However, studies suggest that the persistence of the mullerian duct prevents normal descent of the testis. Treatment is purely dependent on early clinical presentation and surgical methods. CONCLUSION: Transverse Testicular Ectopia (TTE) requires delicate care by the pediatric surgeon as it is considered a rare entity in such cases. Heroin, we highlight the significance of early surgical treatment and the possibility of complications if left untreated.

Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Among Saudi Children: Parental Barriers and Willingness to Vaccinate Their Children in the Makkah Region.

INTRODUCTION: The influenza virus produces everything from seasonal epidemics to unexpected pandemics, making its prevention and management a worldwide public health challenge. The main method to prevent and control seasonal influenza is vaccination. Children responded quite successfully to influenza vaccinations, particularly live vaccines. Despite the strong recommendations and effectiveness of seasonal influenza vaccinations in children, some parents still hesitate and refuse to give their children the shot. OBJECTIVE: This study, given the importance of knowing the factors that contribute to parents' refusal of influenza vaccine, also aims to assess parental barriers and willingness to vaccinate their children in the Makkah region of Saudi Arabia. METHODOLOGY: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted among Saudi parents in the Makkah region. For data collection, an online survey was conducted between December 1, 2022, and February 11, 2023. RESULTS: In total, 334 of the parents participated in our study. The result shows that there is a significant association between parents' gender and receiving the flu vaccine, with significantly more females (52.4%). Regarding the willingness to get the vaccine, the majority of the parents reported that they will get the vaccine and vaccinate their children, and the most common barrier that prevents parents from vaccinating their children is that they do not need it because they are healthy (21.48%). Furthermore, there is a strong relationship between educational level and knowledge about seasonal influenza vaccination; the majority of parents at each level of education have poor knowledge regarding influenza vaccines. In addition, nearly all of our participants (96.7%) believed the information provided by the Saudi Ministry of Health as well as the advice of their physicians. CONCLUSION: This study highlights the need to increase awareness, educate the parents in the Makkah region about the importance of the influenza vaccine, and encourage them to vaccinate their children.

Adoption of Wearable Insulin Biosensors for Diabetes Management: A Cross-Sectional Study.

BACKGROUND: Wearable insulin biosensors represent a novel approach that combines the benefits of real-time glucose monitoring and automated insulin delivery, potentially revolutionizing how individuals with diabetes manage their condition. STUDY PURPOSE: To analyze the behavioral intentions of wearable insulin biosensors among diabetes patients, the factors that drive or hinder their usage, and the implications for diabetes management and healthcare outcomes. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey design was adopted in this study. The validated questionnaire included 10 factors (Performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, facilitating conditions, behavioral intention, trust, perceived privacy risk, and personal innovativeness) affecting the acceptance of wearable insulin sensors. A total of 248 diabetic patients who had used wearable sensors participated in the study. RESULTS: Performance expectancy was rated the highest (Mean = 3.84 out of 5), followed by effort expectancy (Mean = 3.78 out of 5), and trust (Mean = 3.53 out of 5). Statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed with respect to socio-demographic variables including age and gender on various influencing factors and adoption intentions. PE, EE, and trust were positively associated with adoption intentions. CONCLUSION: While wearable insulin sensors are positively perceived with respect to diabetes management, issues like privacy and security may affect their adoption.

Risk Factors Linked to Depression After Treatment in Cancer Survivors in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Background While many cancer patients survive long after diagnosis, one is bound to experience long-term and latent side effects as a result of the treatment. This experience results in a poor quality of life, morbidity, and mortality for cancer survivors. Understanding how to manage these side-effects is quite important and a key to cancer survivorship. Objective Given the importance of this area, the main objective of this study seeks to understand the risk factor associated with cancer survivorship. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among 154 cancer survivors from King Fahad General and Kind Abdul-Aziz hospitals. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used in analyzing the responses. Descriptive statistics were used in understanding the extent of the risk factors while inferential statistics were used to understand the cross-relationships. Results This study included 154 cancer survivors aged 18 and above at King Fahad Hospital and King Abdul-Aziz Hospital in Jeddah, Makkah Region, KSA. Thirty-one (20.1%) of the sample were males and 123 (79.9%) were females. Of all the survivors who screened, 111 (72.9%) symptoms occur before treatment, 116 (75.3%) within the treatment, and 57 (37.09%) after treatment. The relationship between Socioeconomic Status Cross Symptoms categories demonstrated below includes accommodation type, education level, age, gender, and job. Conclusion The study concludes that post-cancer treatment symptoms are highly affected by other factors such as social-economic status as well as family support. As a result, the study recommends the establishment of educational materials on post-treatment symptoms, care-plans, and support groups for cancer survivors.