SACM - United Kingdom
Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://drepo.sdl.edu.sa/handle/20.500.14154/9667
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Item Restricted Enhancing the engraftment of CRISPR gene-edited HSPCs for the treatment of blood disorders using epigenome editing technologies(University College London, 2024) Aldahash, Alya; Zinghirino, Federica; Cavazza, AlessiaEnhancing the homing and engraftment of haematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) after ex vivo gene editing holds significant promise for treating haematological disorders. However, challenges such as inefficient bone marrow homing and limited long-term engraftment after ex vivo manipulation remain. In this study, we employed an innovative epigenome editing platform utilising the CRISPRa system to upregulate key engraftment enhancer genes (CXCR4 and MLLT3) in ex vivo cultured human HSPCs. The CRISPRa system increased gene expression by up to 98% within 24 hours of electroporation. The migratory response of these edited cells was evaluated using an in vitro transwell migration assay, which established a chemoattractant gradient with either recombinant SDF-1α or conditioned media derived from primary bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSC-CM). The MSC phenotype used for MSC-CM production was confirmed by flow cytometry, and SDF-1α and VEGF were quantified by ELISA. Our findings showed that upregulating CXCR4 and MLLT3 in HSPCs using CRISPRa enhanced the migration towards MSC-CM compared to recombinant SDF-1α alone. Conversely, overexpression of CXCR4 using mRNA encoding the main isoform reduced migration potential with MSC-CM. These findings suggest that leveraging CRISPRa-mediated epigenome editing to upregulate endogenous gene expression in HSPCs, in conjunction with bioactive components within MSC-CM, can synergistically enhance stem cell migration and potentially improve clinical outcomes. This study highlights the potential of epigenome editing technologies to enhance the clinical application of HSPCs in gene therapies.3 0Item Restricted Parental Presence and Involvement in the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU): Parents’ Experiences.(University of Glasgow, 2024) Alharthi, Rawan; Allen, MandyBackground: Parental presence and involvement in Paediatric Intensive Care Units (PICUs) play a critical role in a child’s care and psychological well-being. Additionally, parental presence has become a cornerstone in implementing a family-centred care (FCC) model. Understanding parents' experiences during this challenging time is essential in providing strategies for enabling their presence to promote a better PICU environment for children. Aim: This systematised literature review aims to synthesise qualitative evidence that explore parents' experiences regarding their presence and involvement in the PICU. Methods: The search was conducted on four databases: CINAHL, Medline, Embase, and PsycINFO covering the period from 2014 to 2024. Eligibility criteria included qualitative studies that address parents’ experiences in all types of PICU that allow unrestricted parental presence. Studies that address their presence during cardiopulmonary resuscitation or in end-of-life conditions were excluded. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) checklist and Lincoln and Guba’s (1985) criteria were used to assess the trustworthiness of the included studies. Results: Eighteen full-text articles were screened for eligibility, of which six met the inclusion criteria; these ranged from medium to high quality. The review identified four themes across the studies via thematic synthesis: (i) PICU environment, (ii) defining parental roles in PICU settings, (iii) the need for support, and (iv) the value of information sharing. Conclusions: The PICU experience was found to be challenging and filled with a mix of emotions. The PICU team method of involving parents should be tailored according to specific parents’ needs and preferences. Mutual understanding and clear communication between parents and the PICU team are essential to accomplish a strong partnership and provide support during PICU admissions.10 0Item Restricted MAKING THE INVISIBLE VISIBLE: THE LIVED EXPERIENCES OF FEMALE NURSE MANAGERS IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH IN SAUDI ARABIA PRE- AND POST-PROMULGATION OF VISION 2030: AN INTERPRETATIVE PHENOMENOLOGICAL ANALYSIS(Cardiff University, 2024) Alshammari, Salma; Harden, Jane; Alison, JamesDespite significant progress under Vision 2030 to enhance women's status in Saudi Arabia, the rise of mid-level female nurse managers to senior positions has remained slow. While women dominated the nursing field, male nurses often ascended to top positions more quickly. This study addressed the gap in understanding why mid-level female nurses faced delays in reaching more senior roles in Saudi Arabia. My thesis explored the lived experiences of mid-level female nurse managers, focusing on the challenges they encountered and strategies they used within a male-dominated healthcare environment. It aimed to understand the underrepresentation of women in senior managerial positions and the impact of the Vision 2030 reforms. Using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), qualitative data were gathered through in-depth, semi-structured interviews with six mid-level female nurse managers in major hospitals in Hail City, Saudi Arabia. The data were translated and analysed, with each interview individually analysed, and cross-case comparisons made. A feminist lens was used to interpret the findings and provide deeper insights into women's lived experiences. The study revealed significant challenges for female nurse managers in Saudi Arabia’s male- dominated healthcare sector. Despite socio-political reforms under Vision 2030, cultural norms and societal expectations continue to impact their professional lives. These factors often lead to internalised oppressive views, perpetuating marginalisation, and reinforcing systemic barriers. This study enhances the understanding of the specific challenges faced by female nurse managers in Saudi Arabia. By delving into their lived experiences, it highlights invisible but impactful barriers to their progression, underscoring the need for targeted interventions to support women's advancement in managerial roles, beginning with women addressing these internalised views themselve3 0Item Restricted Attitudes and Perceptions of English Language Teachers at Umm Al-Qura University in Saudi Arabia Towards Integrating Sustainability Topics into the English Language Curriculum and its Potential Impact on Students' Learning(University of Essex, 2024-09-18) Alharthi, Saad; Gkonou, ChristinaThis dissertation investigates English language teachers' attitudes and perceptions towards integrating sustainability topics at Umm Al-Qura University's English Language Institute (ELI). It addresses the under-researched area of sustainability in English Language Teaching (ELT) within the Saudi Arabian context. Employing a holistic approach, the study explores the factors influencing teachers' acceptance and implementation of sustainability education, considering the impact on students' learning skills. The research examines teachers' attitudes, potential demographic influences, perceived impacts on students, and challenges and opportunities related to sustainability integration. By providing empirical evidence from a specific cultural context, the study fills a gap in the literature and aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The findings contribute to informing curriculum development, teacher training, and policy decisions to advance sustainability education in Saudi Arabia and beyond.24 0Item Restricted The molecular basis of cytomegalovirus glycoprotein complex II and its role in disease pathogenesis(The University of Manchester, 2024) Al Alfard, Alia; Vallely, PamelaHuman cytomegalovirus causes life-threatening disease in immunocompromised patients and congenitally infected newborns. The virus envelope carries key glycoproteins which are crucial for viral replication, entry, and spread. Some of these glycoproteins have polymorphic features resulting in distinct genotypes that suggested to have an association with disease severity. However, the glycoprotein complex II, particularly gM, is poorly understood in this regard although it is important for viral replication. Glycoprotein M is known to be highly conserved and has not been considered to exist as variable genotypes among HCMV strains. The overall aim of this study was to investigate the role of glycoprotein M in complex II of HCMV. This study confirms the conserved nature of gM but identified three distinct genotypes of it, the differences between the three genotypes are small. Analysis of amino acid sequences of gM clustered gM1 and gM2 together while gM3 separated in an independent group. Analysis of the hydrophobicity of the predicted amino acid sequences, of the transmembrane topology of the predicted amino acid sequences, and predictive modelling of their 3D structure showed that there was 97 to 99% similarity of genotypes. An unexpected finding was the importance of change in the C-terminal tail of the protein predicted to be present on the inside of the virion envelope embedded within the tegument. Here as little as one amino acid difference was sufficient to differentiate gM3 from the other genotypes a finding reinforced by in vitro experiments with a mutated form of HCMV Merlin in which the HCMV Merlin form of M was substituted with a gM1 sequence derived from HCMV AD169. The high degree of conservation of gM may reflect that in nature gM must form a covalent complex with gN in the HCMV surface glycoprotein complex II. If the complex cannot form, then virus viability is impacted. However, studies of mutated HCMV Merlin suggest that gM3 has not only physical variabilities (including glycosylation) from the other genotypes but may be able to better modulate the immune response than viruses having the alternate genotype. In sequences downloaded from Genbank, 53% belonged to gM genotype 3, however since all were clinical isolates, the data cannot represent the overall types of gM circulating in the community. A larger population-based study would be required to point out if gM3 that suggested to be associated with higher disease severity based on indicators of this work. Furthermore, the relationship between gM and the high polymorphic gN, which forms a complex with gM, should be considered in further study. In fibroblasts and in SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells, gM3 type produced higher viruses in SH-SY5Y cells suggesting higher virulence. In vitro study of immediate innate immune response to HCMV infection of Merlin mutant strains, gM3 type had higher immunomodulatory activity compared to other two types, however these results require a verification in vivo. Also, future work should consider other glycoproteins genotypes, beside gM, in a search for potential biomarkers of predicting disease outcomes.3 0Item Restricted The impact of Snapchat influencers on Saudi women's fast fashion consumption through parasocial relationships.(2024-10-08) Roushdi, Fathi; Henninger, Claudia; Blazquez, MartaThe increasing prevalence of Snapchat among women users in Saudi Arabia, in conjunction with the rise of Saudi women influencers on Snapchat endorsing fashion brands and styles, has exerted a significant influence on the fashion consumption patterns of Saudi women. This research explores the development of parasocial relationships within the Saudi Arabian context, with the aim of determining their potential impact on the fashion consumption behaviours of women. This thesis focuses on Saudi Arabia, specifically chosen for its crucial position in the Middle East, characterised by its economic importance, geographic centrality, status as the spiritual hub of Islam, as well as the current social transformation driven by Vision 2030. The aim of the thesis is to explore the parasocial relationship development and its impact on women’s fashion consumption. To comprehend how Saudi women establish parasocial relationships with Snapchat influencers, a monomethod, specifically a qualitative approach, was employed. This involved the recruitment of 24 participants on X (formerly Twitter). The researcher conducted 24 semi- structured interviews comprising participants to gather primary data within an interpretivist research paradigm. Employing thematic analysis, this thesis contends that Saudi women establish parasocial relationships by means of specific characteristics. It also explains why Saudi women belonging to Generation Y prefer Snapchat. Moreover, the thesis provides a better understanding of the contemporary interpretation of Tabzir by Saudi women. The findings of this study reveal parasocial development by Saudi women and how it affects their fashion consumption.16 0Item Restricted The Organisational-Level Translation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Accounting: Case Studies of Selected Saudi Higher Education Institutions (HEIs)(University of Birmingham, 2024-08) Alhanaya, Ibrahim; R Belal, AtaurThis study examines the translation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at the organisational level. Even though, the SDGs were designed to be implemented at the national level, it is recognised that government action alone is insufficient. Rather, concerted action from governments, organisations from the public and private sectors, civil society organisations, and citizens is needed. Among these actors, higher education institutions (HEIs) have noted their commitment to adopting the SDGs. Despite the significant role that HEIs play in achieving the SDGs, research related to this sector and SDGs remains scarce. Therefore, using the lens of translation theory, this study aims to investigate the process through which the SDGs are translated within HEIs, as well as the motivations behind such translation. Additionally, it examines the role of accounting, if any, in the translation process of the SDGs at the organisational level. In investigating these questions, 37 semi-structured interviews were conducted with various stakeholders involved in the translation of the SDGs and related frameworks, including Saudi Vision 2030, with participants drawn from two Saudi HEIs as well as government entities. Additionally, a qualitative analysis was performed on reports and social media data related to this translation within both institutions. To further supplement and verify the data obtained from the interviews, direct observations were conducted over approximately four months at these two universities. The study finds that as the translation of the SDGs advances, there is an increasing focus on adapting these goals within national contexts. However, this study argues that the adaptation of SDGs extends beyond the national level, underscoring its pivotal role at the organisational level. The process of SDG adaptation is broad in scope, encompassing diverse dimensions of policy implementation and necessitating consideration of cultural, social, political, economic, and environmental contexts. This study emphasises the criticality of aligning the SDGs with organisational contexts. Furthermore, the study finds that although the SDGs encourage HEIs to contribute to sustainability, they have also been utilised for purposes unrelated to sustainability, such as promoting and improving financial standings. Such motivations have influenced how the SDGs were translated. Lastly, unlike previous studies that were conducted at the national level, this research contributes to the field of accounting by presenting new empirical insights into the organisational-level translation of the SDGs. It argues that accounting plays a pivotal role in translating the SDGs by holding relevant actors to account, measuring, and reporting progress. These are significant roles played by accounting in the translation process in both universities.6 0Item Restricted Strategic Transformation of Campus Volunteerism: The SVW App Business Plan for Empowering Student Volunteers and Enhancing Campus Life Quality " SVW App: Light up lives, lend a hand, lift a heart and feel the joy" (Strategic Business Plan)(Aston University, 2024-10-30) Alahwal, Omar; Schmidt, KristinaExecutive Summary: The SVW App is an innovative strategic proposition designed to revolutionize the experience of student volunteers within UK universities. This platform aims to acknowledge and reward the critical yet often overlooked contributions of student volunteers, fostering a culture of appreciation and support that enhances campus life. By offering an efficient system for managing volunteer activities, the SVW App seeks to reduce operational costs for universities and promote the volunteer ethos, ultimately improving the quality of campus life. In today's higher education landscape, the lack of specialized programs to manage and incentivize volunteer work has created a gap in fostering student engagement and support. Platforms are often general and do not cater to the unique needs of university environments. The SVW App addresses this gap by providing a tailored solution that not only records volunteer activities but also recognizes and rewards efforts in a meaningful way, contributing to a more vibrant and connected campus community. The app offers a comprehensive range of features, including a point-based reward system, peer tutoring, babysitting services, and a unique system of incentives that aligns volunteer tasks with students' skills and interests. By promoting diversity in volunteer experiences, the SVW App aims to ensure fairness in meeting the needs of all students while preventing burnout and promoting personal growth. Furthermore, the app provides valuable support and training resources, ensuring users can fully utilize its features. To ensure sustainability, the business model integrates various revenue streams, including service fees, corporate sponsorships, and targeted ads. A detailed five-year financial forecast has been developed, outlining optimistic, realistic, and pessimistic scenarios to account for various factors such as economic conditions, university budgets, and cultural trends related to volunteering. Strategically, the SVW App is positioned to enhance volunteer management by integrating it with university systems, thereby reducing chaos and enhancing the overall student experience. The project's risk assessment and mitigation strategies have been carefully developed, focusing on market, financial, operational, strategic, reputational, and legal risks to ensure successful implementation and long-term impact. The SVW App aims to become an indispensable tool for UK universities, enriching campus life by empowering student volunteers and creating an environment where every contribution is valued. Through this innovative approach, the SVW App not only seeks to "light up lives, lend a hand, and lift a heart" but also to establish a sustainable model for volunteerism in higher education.32 0Item Restricted Ibn Saud's foreign policy towards Great Britain and Italy during 1932-1945: a comparative analysis.(Newcastle University, 2025) Alsharif, Ola; Berridge, WillowThis research provides a comparative analysis of Saudi international relations under Ibn Saud (1880-1953), focusing on the interactions with Britain and Italy. By examining these cases, the study offers a political perspective on the history of modern Saudi Arabia and its role in international politics, emphasizing the autonomy and diplomatic skills of King Abdulaziz. While Western historiography often attributes Ibn Saud’s rise to power primarily to British interests in the Middle East, this thesis seeks to uncover the internal and international forces that were crucial in consolidating his power and the Al-Saud dynasty. It aims to provide a more nuanced understanding of King Abdulaziz as an independent political figure who strategically navigated the complexities of international relations to secure his position and the sovereignty of his kingdom.4 0Item Restricted Identification of Novel Survivin Interactors(University of Nottingham, 2024-05) Alhawsawi, Naif; Wheatley, SallySurvivin, a multifaceted protein, plays crucial roles in various cellular processes, including apoptosis inhibition, mitosis, autophagy, and mitochondrial dynamics. Its overexpression has been linked to cancer cell proliferation, angiogenesis, chemotherapy resistance, and poor prognosis in multiple sclerosis. While primarily known for its roles in programmed cell death and cell division, recent evidence suggests its involvement in clathrin-mediated endocytosis trafficking. To explore survivin's interactions and potential functions, we conducted protein-protein interaction studies. We identified two novel interactors, AP1g1 and Seh1, and confirmed a previously reported interaction with CHC. Our findings indicate that survivin directly interacts with AP1g1 and Seh1, while its interaction with CHC is indirect. Additionally, we observed that survivin overexpression downregulates the expression of CNP and PDGFR-a, two myelin-related genes regulated by Seh1 indicating a potential survivin role.These results collectively suggest that survivin may play a role in trafficking and in regulating the myelination of the central nervous system.5 0