SACM - United Kingdom
Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://drepo.sdl.edu.sa/handle/20.500.14154/9667
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Item Restricted Vascular Effects of Myopia in the Eye and Brain A Systematic Literature Review(Cardiff University, 2024) Alnawdal، Mohammed; Terry، Louise; Wright، Melissa; Mojarrad، NeemaAbstract OBJECTIVES This systematic review investigates the vascular effects of myopia, focusing on changes in ocular and cerebral blood flow. The review addresses two main objectives: understanding how myopia affects the vascular structure and function of the retina and choroid, and exploring potential systemic impacts on cerebral blood flow. This review synthesised existing evidence to understand these vascular alterations and their implications for clinical practice and future research. STUDY DESIGN A systematic search was conducted using databases including PubMed, Web of Science, and MEDLINE, following the PRISMA framework to identify and analyze relevant studies. A total of 41 studies were selected based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Tools were employed to evaluate the quality of the included studies. Data extraction followed a standardised approach to ensure consistency and accuracy in capturing relevant findings. RESULTS The findings reveal significant alterations in ocular blood flow, particularly a reduction in retinal vessel density and choroidal thickness in highly myopic eyes. These changes are attributed to axial elongation and mechanical stretching, which disrupt normal vascular function. Such vascular changes may impair blood flow, thereby reducing the supply of oxygen and nutrients to vital ocular tissues. Additionally, evidence suggests potential links between myopia and altered cerebral blood flow, with neuroimaging studies highlighting reduced perfusion and possible neurovascular coupling dysfunctions in highly myopic individuals. CONCLUSION This systematic review highlights the ocular vascular changes associated with myopia along with potential associations with cerebral blood flow alterations. The observed alterations in blood flow and vascular function underscore the importance of early detection and management of myopia to prevent long-term complications. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies and diverse populations to further explore these vascular changes and their implications for clinical practice.19 0Item Restricted Toward a Resuscitation of Postcolonial Theory: Reshaping Homi Bhabha's Colonial Discourse Within an Arabic Context(University of Sussex, 2024) Althobaiti, Hissah; Masterson, JohnThis thesis explores the colonial/postcolonial discourse articulated by Homi Bhabha, with a specific emphasis on the concept of mimicry as it is performed in Arabic contexts. Departing from the conventional method of applying theory to literary texts, I utilise fiction to both challenge and augment Bhabha’s notion of colonial mimicry within the Arab world in light of his totalising tendency to broaden the scope of his study (both spatially and temporally) without adequate consideration or contextualisation. To achieve this, four writers and texts are selected: Ali Bader’s The Tobacco Keeper (2008; trans. 2011), Yasmina Khadra’s What the Day Owes the Night (2008; trans. 2010), Sahar Khalifeh’s The End of Spring (2004; trans. 2008), and Sayed Kashua’s Dancing Arabs (2002; trans. 2004). These emerge from diverse geo-political locations such as Iraq, Algeria and Palestine, with distinctive histories of colonialism and its afterlives. I investigate the extent to which Bhabha’s conceptualisations of ‘transitive’ and ‘intransitive’ resistance materially translate into effective forms of opposition for the colonised. In this, I seek to expose, what I, along with other critics, see as Bhabha’s mythologisation of some excessively abstract concepts. I do so by foregrounding and analysing the concrete hurdles that confront the mimic men featured in my chosen novels as they are performing and/or existing in various interstitial positions/locations. The thesis proposes that these writers and their work demonstrate some inherent complexities and/or risks when it comes to applying Bhabha’s resistance tool/s. They encompass, but are not limited to, the emergence of degrees of mimicry ranging from resistance to complicity, the conditions of mimicry, the act of authorisation, the distinction between mimicry and camouflage, and self-hatred as an aftermath of mimicry. These are all core preoccupations of this study. This thesis identifies the performance of mimicry within Arabic contexts as ensnared by hindering factors that directly impede its efficacy. It asserts that this process commences with the imposition of prerequisites, progresses through stages of exclusion and estrangement, and ultimately concludes with experiences of rejection and self-revulsion.8 0Item Restricted A Collaborative Approach to Speech and Language Therapy: Perspectives of Arabic and Non-Arabic Speaking Caregivers(University College London, 2024-08-31) Aleid, Deem; Filippi, RobertoParent Mediated Intervention (PMI) is a type of early intervention that provides evidence-based and systematic training to parents as part of their child’s speech and language therapy treatment. This intervention is oftentimes video-aided and communication-focused for young children with social (pragmatic) communication disorders or autism spectrum disorder. Research shows that this intervention can improve the child’s communication and overall family quality of life. PMI is one of the most cost-effective and ecologically validating approaches to promoting social communication in children with ASD and social communication difficulties. However, research on how parents perceive this experience is limited. There is even less research on the perspectives of multilingual and multicultural parents. This mixed methods study aims to explore parents’ perspectives of their participation in PMI. Specific research questions include (1) What are parents’ perceptions of parent mediated intervention? (2) Do Arabic and non-Arabic speakers hold differing perspectives on their experiences with parent-mediated intervention? Results from 3 parents of children with ASD indicate that parents generally had positive experiences with PMI with some variability with the degree of satisfaction. Bilingual parents, however, emphasised a desire for more individual time with the specialist, which may reflect cultural and linguistic considerations. These findings should be interpreted cautiously due to the small sample size, and warrants further research with a more diverse and larger sample.6 0Item Restricted Preparation of Biodegradable Lipid-based Indocyanine Green J-aggregate Nanoparticles for Photothermal Therapy(Queen’s University Belfast, 2024) Alotaibi, Hamoud; Al-Jamal, Wafa; Hatahet, TaherPhotothermal therapy (PTT) is an innovative, minimally invasive cancer treatment that utilises light-absorbing agents to convert near-infrared (NIR) light into heat, selectively targeting and destroying cancer cells. The utilisation of a biodegradable (PTT) agent such as indocyanine green J-aggregate (IJA) could potentially address the non-biodegradability issue associated with gold nanoparticles (NPs). Nevertheless, the scalability and development of this agent remain challenging due to several factors, such as the delicate nature of the aggregation, poor optical stabilities in aqueous and biological environments, short in vivo circulation with subsequent dissociation, and the sensitivity to formulation parameters, such as type of solvent, temperature, and surfactants. This thesis focuses on engineering a multifunctional biodegradable lipid-based system loaded with pre-formed-IJA (p-IJA) as a PTT agent. First, the p-IJA-loaded liposomes were prepared using the lipid film hydration method. The effect of formulation parameters, the physicochemical properties, and thermal activity of the p-IJA-liposomes were studied. It was shown that the processing parameters using rigid lipid (DSPC), cholesterol (50% mol), and PEGylation significantly enhanced p-IJA formation and stability into liposomes with superior heating capacity and nano-size formulation (> 200 nm). Second, the effect of lipid nanocapsules (LNC) shells on p-IJA formation and stability was investigated. The effect of formulation parameters such as hydrophilic, hydrophobic and cationic surfactants, alongside temperature and particle size were studies. The addition of a hydrophobic surfactant (Span 85) and cationic (DOTAP) to the LNC shell resulted in a stable p-IJA with a higher IJA892/ICG792 ratio. Finally, solidification of lipid nanoparticle by using solid lipid nanoparticle (SLN) core was explored to improve the IJA892/ICG792 ratio and its heating capacity. Interestingly, higher melting points and solid core lipids such as (sodium stearate) were shown to enhance p-IJA-SLN heating activity through single and multiple heating cycles. This thesis demonstrates the superior heating capacity of p-IJA loaded into a variety of lipid-based systems, enabling its PTT activity.5 0Item Restricted Organisational Development and Change Management(Kingston University, 2024) Almutlaq, Abdulaziz; Fragouli, EvangeliaThis report explores the challenges faced by Blue and Green Technology, a leading printing software and design company in Turkey, during its attempt to implement organisational change. Despite its market presence for over a decade, the company has struggled with a lack of clear organisational structure, poor communication channels, and undefined employee roles, which have hindered its professional growth and customer relations. Using Kotter's Change Management Model and Fogg's Behaviour Model as theoretical frameworks, the report identifies key issues such as the absence of a strategic vision, failure to remove barriers to change, and inadequate communication as primary reasons for the unsuccessful change initiative led by sales manager Neyla. The report further recommends a structured research approach using survey questionnaires and purposive sampling to gather insights from employees about their perceptions of the current organisational structure and barriers to change. Emphasizing the importance of clearly defined roles, transparent communication, and employee involvement, the report concludes with practical suggestions for improving the organisational structure and overcoming resistance to change. Implementing these strategies is expected to enhance the company's operational efficiency, employee morale, and overall business performance.4 0Item Restricted NATION BRANDING AND YOUTH DEVELOPMENT: A CASE STUDY OF SAUDI ARABIA’S SPORTS AND TOURISM REFORMS(Manchester Metropolitan University, 2024) Abdulkareim, Sultan; GUO, LiuchenThis study examined the impact of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's national branding efforts in sports and tourism on youth development, focusing on job creation opportunities and overall quality of life for young Saudis, aged 18-35.13 0Item Restricted Nurr1 as an Emerging Therapeutic Target for Parkinson’s Disease(University of Nottingham, 2022-09) Alyaseen, Jauharra; Bennett, AndrewParkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease in which midbrain dopaminergic neurons are destroyed. In the current state of PD treatments, pharmacological treatments are mostly symptomatic and become ineffective with time. They have severe side effects, including dyskinesia. In view of this, developing treatments based on mechanisms of action and/or disease modification remains an unmet clinical need. We hypothesize that Nurr1, a nuclear orphan receptor, can be a molecular target for neuroprotective therapeutic development for Parkinson's disease because of its dual role in dopaminergic neurons development and maintenance as well as their protection from inflammation-induced degeneration. Moreover, it has been reported that mutations in Nurr1 are linked to Parkinson's disease. Nurr1-activating compounds have recently been demonstrated to enhance DA neurotransmission as well as protect DA neurons from microglia-mediated neuroinflammation and environmental toxin damage. Furthermore, modulators targeting Nurr1, such as 4-amino-7-chloroquinoline derivatives and retinoid X receptors, can enhance the effects of Nurr1-based therapies. Therefore, the aim of this project is to evaluate the efficacy of bexarotene and amodiaquine on activating Nurr1 receptor in SHSY-5Y neuroblastoma cells by using tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) promoter- luciferase assay. Here we show unsuccessful increase in Nurr1 activity in response to both amodiaquine and bexarotene with ( EC50 = 4.86 uM and EC50 = 2.95 mM, respectively). These novel ligands require more experiments to determine their biological significance in Nurr1 activation. It is advantageous to reposition or reprofile drugs in this manner since it reduces the time and investment involved in drug discovery, development, and safety since target and pharmacokinetic profiles have been determined in advance.6 0Item Restricted Auditory Function Differences Between Women and Men: Is There a Role for the Female Sex Hormones?(University of Manchester, 2024) Aloufi, Nada; Kluk, Karolina; Heinrich, Antje; Marshall, KayThe thesis aimed to investigate the differences in the fluctuations of the auditory function between pre-menopausal women and age-matched men and whether female sex hormones play a role in these sex differences in the fluctuations of auditory function in women across the short timescale of the menstrual cycle. It also investigates the differences in auditory function fluctuations between post- and pre-menopausal women and whether female sex hormones influence the changes of hearing function across a long timescale (i.e. lifespan) in the post-menopausal women compared to pre-menopausal women. This thesis includes a systematic review and two original research studies using a well-controlled study design and sensitive audiometric tests to assess the whole pathway of the auditory system, and blood analysis of the levels of female sex hormones for the pre- and post-menopausal women at each session. The evaluations of the fluctuations in auditory functions were performed in five weekly sessions for all participants. The research identified a systematic fluctuation in hearing sensitivity in premenopausal women, where age-matched men and post-menopausal women showed stable hearing function across the five sessions spaced one week apart. However, all groups showed no significant fluctuations in speech perception in background noise. Premenopausal women showed improved hearing functions during higher levels of oestradiol, and diminished function during high levels of progesterone, however, speech perception in background noise was not affected by the fluctuations of female sex hormones. This thesis sheds light on how female sex hormones interact with auditory function. By revealing how these hormones affect hearing function, it outlines the way for future research to develop better diagnostic tools and treatments for hearing issues in women.5 0Item Restricted Factors Affecting Risk Management Maturity in Saudi Arabia Organisations(University of Birmingham, 2024-08) Alhenaki, Faris; Kimmance, JamesThe level to which risk management is embedded in an organisation’s procedures, Culture, and decision-making is known as risk management maturity. This project discusses the concept of risk management maturity and its significance within the organisation. Therefore, the study aims to provide several factors influencing risk management maturity within organisations and recommendations to improve organisational risk management maturity, focusing on three key factors: organisational culture, size of the organisation, and training programs. Data were collected through a survey, with 53 responses obtained from various sectors in Saudi Arabia. The survey questions were designed using the ISO31000 framework and data analysis using SPSS software. The results indicate a medium positive relationship between risk management maturity and culture. Similarly, the results indicate a medium positive relationship between Size and RMM, which is statistically significant. Furthermore, the findings show a significant positive relationship between training programs and risk management maturity. These findings support the importance of investing in comprehensive training programs to enhance risk management maturity in Saudi organisations and the role of the culture and size of the organisations in improving risk management maturity.4 0Item Restricted Empowerment Behind the Wheel: A Qualitative Study of Saudi Women as Ride-Hailing Service Drivers in Gig Work(University of Reading, 2024) Alsaedi, Faris; Ghobadian, Abby; Heim, IrinaBackground: This qualitative study explores the unprecedented emergence of Saudi women as drivers in ride-hailing services, marking a significant societal shift in a nation long characterised by conservative gender roles. While the gig economy has been widely examined in Western contexts, its intersection with gender in regions like Saudi Arabia (SA) remains underexplored. The rise of gig work, particularly in ride-hailing services, offers a unique lens through which to examine women's empowerment in non-traditional roles within a rapidly transforming society. This study addresses the gap in understanding how Saudi women navigate the gig economy through their experiences in providing ride-hailing services and the broader implications for gender roles and mobility in the Kingdom. Aims and Objectives: The research investigates Saudi women's perspectives, attitudes, and motivations towards gig work within the male-dominated ride-hailing services, aiming to uncover how these women challenge traditional gender norms and navigate the pathways to empowerment in the public sphere. Methods: Employing a single case study approach, which involves an in-depth examination of the experiences and perspectives of female gig drivers, this research is grounded in Biosocial Construction Theory, Indigenous Institutional Theory, and sociocultural perspectives to explore the intersection of gender, culture, and economic participation. Primary data was collected through comprehensive interviews with 26 individuals, including 22 female drivers from Saudi Arabia, two government officials, and two representatives from ride-hailing companies. Document analysis was also utilised to examine policies, regulations, and media coverage of women's participation in the ride-hailing services. Findings: The study uncovers intricate narratives of agency, resistance, and negotiation, illustrating how Saudi women are actively challenging stereotypes, asserting autonomy, and redefining gender norms. While Western women often work as drivers for financial independence, Saudi women leverage these roles for self-discovery, networking, and a culturally appropriate workspace (e.g., women driving women). However, their participation remains contingent upon familial approval and is constrained by stricter societal and regulatory restrictions, such as requirements for male guardians' consent, limitations on travel distances, and rigid working hours, reflecting limited autonomy and flexibility compared to Western peers. These efforts are tempered by persistent barriers such as social stigma, regulatory challenges, and safety concerns, highlighting the ongoing struggle for gender equality in the public sphere. Contributions: This study addresses a critical gap in the literature on Saudi female drivers who participate in gig work providing ride-hailing services by: A) Theoretical Application: It significantly enriches the understanding of gender, culture, and economic participation in SA, emphasising the pivotal role of policy reforms and societal support in empowering women in gig work. It contributes to a more nuanced understanding of women's agency and empowerment within the evolving socio-political landscape of SA and underscores the importance of targeted interventions to foster inclusivity and address the systemic barriers faced by Saudi women in public and professional spheres. The application of Biosocial Construction Theory in this study adds a unique and innovative dimension by capturing the interplay between inherent gendered behaviours and societal expectations, offering a framework that can be adapted for future studies in similar contexts. B) Policy Implications: It demonstrates how governmental support for gig work in SA, in contrast to many other nations, serves as a cornerstone for facilitating women's inclusion in the workforce. This finding provides a distinctive contribution to the academic discourse on gig economies globally, highlighting the potential of tailored government initiatives to drive gender inclusivity and economic empowerment. It also offers policymakers insights into developing frameworks that balance cultural norms with progressive labour strategies. C) Practical Implications: It provides actionable recommendations for policymakers, businesses, and gig platform operators. For policymakers, it advocates designing targeted programmes to address the specific needs and challenges faced by Saudi women in gig work, such as ensuring safety measures, equitable access to resources, and flexible working conditions. For businesses, it suggests fostering a supportive organisational culture that prioritises women’s professional growth and autonomy. Ride-hailing platforms are encouraged to enhance operational policies to include training, mentorship opportunities, and incentives to retain female drivers while addressing systemic barriers. These practical implications aim to empower Saudi women economically and socially, contributing to Vision 2030's objectives of gender equality and workforce diversification.15 0