Saudi Cultural Missions Theses & Dissertations
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Item Restricted Can diversity in the audit committee mitigate the risk of financial misconduct and corruption? An Overview of Saudi Arabia Regulations.(King's College University, 2024-09-01) Alkhathlan, Norah Rashed; Banerjee, NigelThis dissertation explores the impact of professional diversity within audit committees on mitigating financial misconduct and corruption, focusing mainly on Saudi Arabia's Regulation. Recognizing the critical role of maintaining financial integrity, this study investigates how diverse audit committee compositions might improve financial oversight and decrease unethical behaviors. The research methodology combines a review of past incidents of corporate misconduct with an analysis of the legal framework, complemented by an examination of annual reports from Saudi companies to analyze the expertise and backgrounds of audit committee members. The results indicate that a mix of financial, legal, and industrial expertise within audit committees strengthens their ability to detect and address risks associated with financial misconduct and corruption. The dissertation recommends restructuring audit committees to consist of five members: three with financial skills, one with legal qualifications, and one with industrial experience. This recommended configuration aim to enhance the committee's effectiveness in adhering to legal standards and protect financial integrity. However, acknowledging the varied nature of companies in Saudi Arabia, an exception is proposed for small companies.9 0Item Restricted The Relationship Between Leadership Styles of Nurse Managers and Nurse Turnover in Private Hospital Settings in Saudi Arabia(University of Edinburgh, 2024-08) Ahmed, Daniyah; Haycock-Stuart, ElaineABSTRACT Background: Nursing turnover is a significant and ongoing challenge in healthcare systems worldwide as it impacts patient care. Nursing turnover is often linked to the leadership styles of nurse managers. In Saudi Arabia, where the healthcare sector is undergoing rapid transformation under Vision 2030, effective leadership is increasingly crucial for high quality care. Despite the extensive global research on the influence of different leadership styles on nurse turnover, there is a noticeable gap in understanding this relationship within the context of private hospitals in Saudi Arabia. The review of literature published between 2014 and 2024 examines 19 studies to understand the relationship between nursing turnover and leadership styles. Four key themes were identified and form the basis of literature review chapter. Aim: The proposed study aims to examine the relationship between nurse managers' leadership styles and nursing turnover within the private Saudi hospitals context. Methods: A descriptive correlational research design will be implemented at the Saudi German Hospital, Dr. Suliman Fakeeh Hospital, and International Medical Centre (IMC) in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Using stratified random sampling, 50 nurse managers and 250 nurses will be selected. Data will be collected via surveys distributed through WhatsApp and email, the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ-5X), with the addition of a Sociodemographic section and the Anticipated Turnover Scale (ATS). Both descriptive and inferential statistics will be employed for data analysis. Implications: The findings will inform the development of targeted leadership training programmes to enhance nurse retention and job satisfaction. The study will also provide evidence-based recommendations for policy development and influence nursing curricula. Additionally, it will lay the groundwork for future research on leadership styles and nursing turnover.3 0Item Restricted What Do Invesitors Care About in Cryptocurrency Markets? Evidence from ESG Ratings and NFTs(University of East Anglia, 2024-09) Alsultan, Sarah Abdulrahman; Markellos, Raphael; Kourtis, ApostolosWhile cryptocurrencies have seen limited adoption as a medium of exchange, they have been recognised as a new class of investment assets. A broader range of investors, including institutional investors, has shown growing interest in cryptocurrency and digital assets. Therefore, this thesis contributes to the literature by thoroughly examining digital technologies as investment assets through three empirical studies. The first study explores whether investors prefer blockchains with strong Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG), using a novel dataset of blockchain ESG scores. The findings reveal a time-varying preference for high-ESG blockchains. The top-rated blockchains outperform lower-rated ones during favourable market conditions and optimistic market sentiment but underperform during times of negative sentiment. Our findings also indicate that high-ESG blockchains exhibit higher market volatility. Furthermore, governance and environmental factors have the strongest influence on investor preferences among the three ESG dimensions. The second study examines NFTs as a relatively new asset class that is not yet fully understood, particularly in terms of risk modelling. It evaluates and compares the forecasting performance of various GARCH models in estimating NFT market volatility across different time horizons. The selected models include GARCH(1,1), IGARCH(1,1), EGARCH(1,1), GJR- GARCH(1,1), and TGARCH(1,1). The dataset comprises three major NFT categories, six NFT token platforms, and major cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin and Ethereum. Empirical evidence shows that different models perform better depending on the asset type and forecast horizon. The findings highlight the highly volatile nature of NFT markets. The third study assesses the impact of visual attractiveness on NFT market prices. Prior art literature has demonstrated the role of aesthetics in influencing art prices. Given the similarities between NFTs and traditional art, this study investigates whether aesthetics similarly impact NFT prices. The empirical analysis focuses on one of the largest NFT collections, CryptoPunks, by applying a hedonic pricing model. We employ quantitative aesthetic measures to capture aspects of NFT art, including colourfulness, brightness, colour intensity, and texture. Our results reveal a significant impact of visual aesthetics on determining NFT prices. The results indicate that more colourful and visually complex NFTs are associated with higher prices, while brighter and more saturated NFTs are associated with lower prices.10 0Item Restricted Optical Wireless Communication-Enabled Data Centre Networks(Abrar Alhazmi, 2024-12-03) Alhazmi, Abrar; Elmirghani, Jaafar; El-Gorashi, TaisirData Centres (DCs) are witnessing significant traffic surges due to the increasing popularity of cloud computing-based applications. To handle this a surge, Data Centre Network (DCN) designs are required to provide high throughput, reconfigurability, scalability, energy efficiency, and low latency. To satisfy these requirements, technological and structural advancements and effective placement of workload are required in DCs. Optical Wireless Communication (OWC) offers potential solutions for the challenges faced by DCNs by enabling improved scalability and flexibility, reducing wiring complexities, and lowering the power consumption while providing high bandwidth. Passive Optical Networks (PONs) have also been considered for DCs as they offer high bandwidth, flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and energy efficiency due to the use of passive components. In this thesis, we propose incorporating OWC and PON technologies into next generation spine-and-leaf DCNs. OWC is used to connect the racks of a DC through Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) Infrared (IR) transceivers that are placed at the top of the racks and at distributed Access Points (APs) in the ceiling. Each transceiver at a rack is connected to a leaf switch that connects the servers within the rack. The transceivers use Angle Diversity Transmitters (ADTs) and Angle Diversity Receivers (ADRs) to enable connecting each rack with all APs. We propose two PON designs to replace the spine switches by providing passive connectivity between APs and between APs and the Optical Line Terminal (OLT) that connect the DCs to external networks. The first PON design uses Arrayed Waveguide Grating Routers (AWGRs) to connect APs to each other and connect APs to the OLT while the second PON design uses Network Interface Cards (NIC) to connect APs to each other and to connect subsets of the APs to the OLT. In addition, we present channel modelling for the uplinks and downlinks for a DC with eight racks and ADTs with ADRs showing data rates between 10 and 20 Gbps for uplink and between 7.5 and 16 Gbps for downlink. Additionally, we study the impact of air turbulences resulting from the temperature variations in temperature on the channel performance. Moreover, we optimise the routing and wavelength assignment in the AWGR-based PON using Mixed Integer Linear Programming (MILP). Furthermore, we develop a MILP model with the objective to maximise the data rates in both the uplink and downlink directions and determine the optimal paths between the racks and between racks and the OLT based on the achievable data rates. We benchmark the power consumption of the proposed OWC-PON-based spine-and-leaf DC designs against the traditional spine-and-leaf DC. Considering eight racks, the results show that in comparison to iii traditional spine and leaf architectures, the AWGR-based architecture minimised the power consumption by 50%, and the AP-to-AP architecture minimised it by 46%. Furthermore, we further develop a MILP model to optimise Virtual Machine (VM) placement in the proposed OWC-PON-based spine-and-leaf DCs architectures to minimise the power consumption of networking and processing. Our results show that jointly minimising the networking and processing power consumption, decreases the networking power consumption by 75% compared to minimising the processing power consumption only. In this work, the proposed model serves as a pivotal contribution., providing a valuable framework for evaluating and benchmarking different architectures and settings.3 0Item Restricted Timekeeper: Advancing Circadian Research with GST-Tagged Per3 Protein(The University of Edinburgh, 2024) Alanezi, Sarah Abdullah; Arribas, RaquelThe Per3 gene plays a crucial role in regulating circadian rhythms, profoundly impacting sleep-wake cycles and metabolic processes. Despite its biological significance, the expression and purification of Per3 have presented substantial challenges, often resulting in low yields and poor solubility. This study tackles these obstacles by employing innovative cloning and expression techniques, particularly utilizing a GST-Per3long to enhance solubility and purification efficiency. We designed primers incorporating homology regions complementary to restriction enzyme-digested ends and employed the In-Fusion cloning method to integrate the Per3 gene into the p3E plasmid vector with high precision. The transformation efficiencies were remarkable, with colony counts reaching 2.292 x 10^8 colonies per μg of plasmid DNA. PCR amplification confirmed the successful integration of the Per3 gene, with distinct bands observed at the expected size of 1143 bp, which was further confirmed by DNA sequencing. Protein expression trials identified 25°C as the optimal temperature, significantly improving the yield and solubility of the GST-tagged Per3 protein. Subsequent purification through GST Affinity chromatography and gel filtration chromatography yielded a highly pure protein, as confirmed by SDS-PAGE and native gel electrophoresis. Although the initial yield was modest, the high purity of the purified protein provides a robust foundation for future functional and structural studies. This study not only establishes a reliable protocol for Per3 expression and purification but also opens avenues for investigating the interactions of Per3 with other circadian proteins, such as CRY and BMAL1, to determine their mutual exclusivity and relative affinity. These interactions are crucial for understanding the biological role of Per3 in fine-tuning the circadian clock. Future work should focus on optimizing expression conditions to further increase yield and investigate the intricate biological activity of the Per3 protein within the circadian network.16 0Item Restricted The Role of Upf1 in Telomere Homeostasis(University of Sheffield, 2024) Alatawi, Rowida; David, TurtonTelomeres are specialized DNA structures at the ends of chromosomes that protect against the loss of genetic information during replication. Although the protein Upf1, involved in both mRNA surveillance and genomic stability, has been implicated in telomere maintenance, its exact role remains unclear. This study aimed to examine the roles of Upf1 at telomeres and in genomic stability using an inducible HeLa cell line expression system (FLP-IN). After inserting fluorescent tags like the Kaede tag to track UPF1 in live HeLa T-REx cells, we visualized UPF1 dynamics and studied its functions more effectively. The research began with the validation of starting materials, including Kaede-N1 and pcDNA5-FRT-TO-CAT-FLAG-UPF1 plasmids, confirming their identity. The hygromycin sensitivity test validated the HeLa T-REx cell line, proving its suitability for the Flip-In system. The characterization of HeLa T-REx cell growth dynamics was examined, and optimal seeding densities for transfection were optimized. The average doubling time for HeLa T-REx cells was approximately 24 hours. To generate an inducible HeLa cell line expression system (FLP-IN), the project created novel cell lines expressing fluorescently tagged UPF1. A pCDNA-FRT-TO-CAT-FLAG- UPF1-Kaede construct was created through a two-step cloning process. First, UPF1 was cloned into Kaede-N1, creating an ~8.1 Kb Kaede-N1-UPF1 construct. Then, Kaede- UPF1 was cloned into pcDNA-FRT-TO-CAT, resulting in the final ~10 Kb construct. The final construct, pCDNA-FRT-TO-CAT-FLAG-UPF1-Kaede, was confirmed with restriction mapping and sequencing. Although site-directed mutagenesis to remove two stop codons was unsuccessful, hygromycin selection indicated successful construct integration. Despite high transformation efficiency for the control plasmid, no colonies were obtained from the DpnI-treated DNA samples, suggesting issues with the mutagenesis reaction itself. The study proceeded to create a stable FLP-IN cell line expressing fluorescently tagged UPF1 in HeLa T-REx cells. Colonies appeared under hygromycin selection, indicating successful integration of the construct. However, the presence of unremoved stop codons may hinder the production of the desired UPF1-Kaede fusion protein. An important accomplishment was the effective establishment of a doxycycline-inducible method for managing the expression of FLAG-tagged UPF1. The Western blot analysis showed induction in the expression of FLAG-tagged UPF1 protein at around 130 kDa in samples treated with doxycycline at 24, 48, and 72 hours after induction. Endogenous UPF1 was seen in both induced and non-induced samples, indicating that the presence of doxycycline did not impact endogenous UPF1. This suggests the possibility of investigating the impact of UPF1 overexpression on cellular functioning. This study provides valuable tools and insights for investigating Upf1's role in telomere maintenance and genomic stability. The inducible expression method enables precise regulation of Upf1 levels, allowing future investigations into its interactions at telomeres. Although faced with difficulties in site-directed mutagenesis and the creation of stable cell lines that produce the complete UPF1-Kaede fusion protein, the experiment has effectively built the basis for future investigations into the involvement of Upf1 in telomere biology and its possible significance in cancer research. Future research should prioritize improving mutagenesis techniques and investigating UPF1's interactions at telomeres to further our comprehension of genomic integrity preservation.27 0Item Restricted Deployment Of Advanced ICT To Achieve Net Zero(Loughborough University, 2024-09) Alghamdi, Ghaida; Hassan, TarekThis research investigates how advanced Information and Communication Technology (ICT) can contribute to achieving net-zero carbon emissions throughout the construction process's life cycle. Utilizing a quantitative approach, the study employed a questionnaire to evaluate the role of ICT utilisation in reducing carbon emissions across the various construction phases. The survey, distributed via email and industry-related online platforms, gathered data from 45 participants, including engineers, project managers, and architects. The results indicated that Building Information Modelling (BIM) was the most widely used ICT tool, adopted by 77.78% of participants, with Virtual Reality (VR) and Computer Vision (CV) also prominently featured. Notably, drones and VR were extensively used during the construction phase, while Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) saw increased usage in the post-construction phase. An overwhelming 88% of participants perceived the impact of these tools on sustainability as either strong or moderate. The study concludes that deploying advanced ICT tools such as VR, AR, and AI significantly enhances time savings, quality, safety, and overall project performance, contributing to the reduction of CO2 emissions. BIM, in particular, emerged as the most extensively used tool, supported by technologies like VR and drones. The research highlights the vital role of ICT in advancing sustainability and achieving net-zero targets in the construction industry, while also acknowledging the need to address challenges associated with emerging technologies like WSNs.16 0Item Restricted Understanding Family Language Policies in Saudi Sojourning Families: insights from Mothers in Melbourne.(Monash University, 2024) Alsubaie, Samah; Fang, NinaThis study investigates how ten Saudi sojourning mothers in Melbourne manage Family Language Policy (FLP) decisions regarding their children's language development. Unlike immigrants, who aim for long-term integration, sojourners live abroad temporarily, planning to return to their home country. Much research has been conducted on immigrants; however, few studies have focused on sojourners, particularly Saudi sojourning mothers. Therefore, they are the focus of this study. Using a qualitative approach, including semi-structured interviews, the study finds that all mothers prioritize maintaining Arabic for religious, cultural, and educational reasons. The research reveals the significant influence of external societal pressures and internal family dynamics on FLP choices, leading to a gap between the mothers' declared language ideologies and their actual practices. Despite these challenges, the mothers show a strong commitment to preserving their children's first language (L1) through consistent strategies. A key finding is the positive impact of fathers' active involvement in language education, which not only enhances language acquisition but also strengthens family unity and authority. The study highlights the complexities of FLP in transnational families and offers valuable insights into how parental roles and external factors shape language policies.10 0Item Restricted Synergising Learning Sciences, Learning Analytics, and Educational Technologies(The University of Queensland, 2024) Lahza, Hatim; Khosravi, Hassan; Demartini, GianlucaThe adoption of educational technologies in modern educational systems has significantly advanced the field of learning sciences. This shift, particularly evident within digital learning environments, has enriched pedagogical strategies and redefined educational evaluation methodologies by leveraging sophisticated developments in learning analytics. Despite these advancements, a notable gap persists in effectively applying learning theories within digital environments and in the design of learning analytics. This shortfall partly stems from the ongoing development of empirical evidence supporting these theories and a prevalent reliance on software engineering and data science perspectives, which may not fully integrate learning theory insights. To this end, this thesis addresses this gap by proposing two triadic relationships among learning theories, educational technologies, and learning analytics. The overarching aim is to leverage these relationships to enhance learning understanding and learning optimisation. First, I leverage the dyadic relationship between learning theory and educational technologies to influence the development of the third actor of the triad, learning analytics, to enhance learning understanding. I demonstrate the application of this relationship through two approaches using two authentic educational platforms with real-life course data. The first approach, LA-exam, uses an e-exam platform and Self-Regulated Learning (SRL) theory to develop analytics for e-exams on two levels: student level and item level. The second approach, LA-sourcing, uses a learnersourcing platform and SRL theory to develop analytics about student tactics and strategies when engaging with the platform activities. Second, I leverage the dyadic relationship between learning theory and learning analytics to inform the design choices of the third actor of the triad, educational technologies, to enhance learning optimisation. I demonstrate the application of this relationship through two approaches that report the results of randomised controlled experiments conducted on a learnersourcing platform. The first approach, ET-create, uses a set of learning analytics and SRL theory to inform the design choices of SRL scaffolding strategies for content creation. The second approach, ET- review, uses a set of learning analytics and SRL and scripting theories to inform the design choices of scaffolding strategies for peer review.6 0Item Restricted Improving Pharmacokinetic Modelling Through Improved Prediction of Intestinal Drug Absorption(University College London, 2024) Alharthi, Bashayr; Sorthouse, DavidIntestinal permeability (Peff) is a critical determinant of drug absorption and plays a pivotal role in the accuracy of Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic (PBPK) models, which are essential for drug development and regulatory approval. Accurate prediction of Peff is vital for optimizing these models, enhancing bioavailability predictions, and reducing the reliance on extensive in vivo testing, thereby accelerating the drug development process. In this study, a machine learning (ML) model was developed to predict Peff using a small and complex dataset derived from pharmacokinetic studies. Given the dataset’s limitations, including its small size and inherent variability, traditional ML approaches were insufficient. To address these challenges, data augmentation (DA) techniques, particularly synthetic data generation, were employed to enhance the training data, thereby improving the model’s predictive performance. The suitability of the augmented data was evaluated by comparing model performance on synthetic versus real data. The study further explored the benefits and limitations of data augmentation, demonstrating its potential to address small dataset issues in pharmacokinetic modelling. Model interpretation was also conducted to understand the relationships between the target (Peff) and feature variables, offering insights into the key factors influencing the model’s predictions. This research underscores the value of data augmentation in enhancing the predictive power of ML models for PBPK applications and lays the groundwork for future work focused on optimizing data augmentation strategies and refining model interpretability.5 0