SACM - Australia
Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://drepo.sdl.edu.sa/handle/20.500.14154/9648
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Item Restricted Impact of Hydrogen Addition to Natural Gas on Combustion Instability(Saudi Digital Library, 2026) Alahmadi, Abdulaziz Ali M; Talei, MohsenThe transition to low-carbon energy systems demands cleaner combustion technologies capable of operating efficiently with hydrogen-enriched fuels. However, introducing hydrogen into conventional natural gas systems can significantly alter flame behaviour and potentially compromise combustion stability. This thesis addresses the following research questions: (1) how pressure affects combustion stability in pure hydrogen flames; (2) how hydrogen addition to natural gas influences combustion stability across different operating conditions; and (3) whether low-order acoustic or thermoacoustic models can predict the stability regimes of hydrogen/natural gas flames under gas-turbine-relevant conditions. To answer these questions, this thesis investigates the impact of hydrogen addition to natural gas on flame dynamics and combustion stability under elevated-pressure conditions relevant to gas turbines. A novel optically accessible burner was developed to enable detailed measurements of flame shape, heat release rate dynamics, and pressure oscillations across a wide range of fuel blends, pressures, and operating conditions. The results show that increasing hydrogen concentration shortens flame length, alters flame–acoustic interactions, and shifts heat release rate spectra to higher frequencies, making high-frequency acoustic modes more prone to instability in hydrogen-rich flames. Overall, these findings provide new insights into the stability characteristics of hydrogen-containing fuels and demonstrate the capability of low-order models to capture key stability trends, supporting the development of low-emission, hydrogen-fuelled gas turbines.14 0Item Restricted Pain assessment in the multilingual intensive care environment in Saudi Arabia(Saudi Digital Library, 2026) Albulaytih, Bandar; Lee, Nigel; Ballard, Emma; Coyer, FionaThis research compared the novel image-based Behaviour Pain Assessment Tool to the widely used text-based Behavioural Pain Scale for assessing pain in nonverbal, intubated patients in a multi-culturally staffed intensive care unit. Utilising sequential mixed-methods design, study findings demonstrated that the image-based tool showed good inter-rater reliability, sensitivity, specificity and discriminant validity. Substituting text descriptors of pain with images of painful facial expressions assessing pain behaviour was preferred by multilingual nurses. While both tools identified the presence of pain, neither adequately quantified pain severity. These findings provide evidence for culturally responsive, reliable pain assessment practices in diverse critical care settings.11 0Item Restricted Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based Multi-criteria Shipping Industry Provider Selection(Saudi Digital Library, 2026) Khan, Ibraheem Abdulhafiz Q; Hussain, Farookh KhadeerThis thesis highlights that automating the selection of maritime shipping service providers is pivotal to supply-chain performance. By replacing fragmented and subjective practices with transparent analytics, automation reduces cost and time, improves reliability, and ensures decisions are reproducible at scale. To achieve this, the thesis introduces an intelligent multi-criteria search engine (MC-SE) that integrates artificial intelligence (AI) and multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) to support both shippers and freight companies in identifying reliable, cost-effective providers. The objectives are to (i) develop an AI-based predictive classifier for offshore shipping decisions; (ii) systematically map provider criteria to the service quality framework (SERVQUAL); (iii) propose an AI-assisted approach for criteria weighting; (iv) conduct a SERVQUAL survey for provider-side assessment; and (v) validate the framework through an Australian case study. Methodologically, criteria were extracted from provider websites and benchmark datasets, then clustered into decision attributes using semantic similarity techniques. These clusters were aligned with SERVQUAL dimensions to ensure construct validity. AI-based weighting and supervised learning were applied within an MCDM pipeline to calculate attribute importance, integrate cost as a complementary decision factor, and rank providers objectively. This dual use of structured datasets and unstructured textual content ensures that the framework adapts to both traditional logistics data and dynamic, web-based information sources. Provider-side service quality is structured via SERVQUAL, while cost is modelled as a complementary decision attribute within the overall MC-SE multi-criteria framework. Validation demonstrates strong agreement between the proposed MC-SE weighting and the SERVQUAL survey (mean absolute error (MAE), MAE = 0.014), with dimension-level differences typically within 2–3%. The optimisation classifier, based on a voting ensemble, achieves 82.3% accuracy on held-out test data. These findings show that data-driven weighting, combined with supervised learning, can robustly support provider selection in practice. Overall, this thesis develops a novel, AI-driven framework to support the automated selection of maritime shipping service providers, bridging gaps between academic models and industry practice. Future research will refine the MC-SE framework, evaluate its portability across diverse contexts, and extend the evaluation to incorporate customer-experience evidence that complements provider-side quality and explicit cost trade-offs. Importantly, providers’ clusters are consistently aligned with canonical SERVQUAL dimensions to preserve theoretical and empirical coherence.13 0Item Restricted ESG Portfolio Construction and Performance Analy sis: Evidence from an Australian Equity Portfolio Compared with an Ethical ETF Benchmark.(Saudi Digital Library, 2026) Altalibi, Mohammad Abutaleb Abdullah; Anh, PhamThis study investigates at how an equity portfolio with an environmental, social, and governance (ESG) focus is built and performs in the Australian market. The portfolio was created with a methodical approach that includes ESG screening, sector diversification, and an equal-weighting strategy for 10 ASX-listed businesses with low ESG risk ratings. The research is based on Modern Portfolio Theory and ESG investment principles, and it seeks to determine if sustainable investment methods can produce competitive financial returns. Portfolio performance was analysed from August 25 to September 19, 2025, and compared to the Vanguard Ethically Conscious Australian Shares ETF (VETH). The results show that the ESG portfolio beat the benchmark, producing a positive return while the benchmark experienced a tiny decline. This outperformance was predominantly driven by strong increases in growth-oriented and innovation-focused companies, emphasising the significance of active stock selection in ESG frameworks. Risk analysis shows that diversification and equal weighting helped to manage volatility, whereas ESG screening reduced exposure to enterprises with high sustainability risks. However, the study recognises several limitations, such as the short evaluation time and reliance on a single ESG data provider. In general, the data indicate that ESG integration can help with both financial performance and risk management, highlighting its growing importance in modern portfolio construction.6 0Item Restricted DOES THE NEW BCR::ABL ASCIMINIB (ABL001) TYROSINE KINASE INHIBITOR INDUCE PLATELET ACTIVATION, INCREASE THROMBUS FORMATION AND PROMOTE A PROTHROMBOINFLAMMATORY STATE?(Saudi Digital Library, 2026) Omar, Musab; Jackson, DeniseAbatract Background: Chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) is driven by the BCR::ABL1 gene, leading to the development of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) such as Imatinib, Nilotinib, and Ponatinib. However, resistance or intolerance to ATP-competitive TKIs remains a challenge for some patients. Asciminib , a novel TKI, targets the myristoyl pocket of ABL1 instead of the ATPbinding site, reducing resistance to mutations. As Asciminib is linked to thrombocytopenia, its effects on platelet activation, endothelial function, and inflammation must be studied to assess its potential to promote thrombosis. Hypothesis: We hypothesised that Asciminib may potentiate a thromboinflammatory state over time. Aim: The main objective of this study is to determine the potential of Asciminib as a monotherapy in inducing pathological responses to platelets and endothelium over time within the vasculature. Materials and Methods: This study assessed the effects of TKIs including Asciminib on platelets and thrombotic biomarkers. Washed platelets were used to measure granule secretion, thrombus formation, surface proteins, apoptosis, and viability. Plasma from Asciminib-treated CML patients was analysed using sandwich ELISA for inflammatory and platelets-endothelial biomarkers, and thrombin generation assays were performed to study coagulation. This approach combined in vitro and ex vivo methods to explore the impact of Asciminib on platelet function and thrombotic potential Results: The study shows that Asciminib does not promote platelet activation or thrombus formation. Instead, it exhibits an inhibitory effect on thrombus formation in vitro and demonstrates anti-thromboinflammatory properties in vivo. Asciminib promotes thrombin generation over time revealing an effect on secondary haemostasis. Conclusion: Asciminib does not induce a prothrombotic or proinflammatory state, which is advantageous for CML patients on treatment to avoid adverse side effects that can be life threatening. However, the potentiation of thrombin generation over time could predispose CML patients to venous thrombosis or acute ischaemic stroke, particularly in the elderly.13 0Item Restricted Supporting nutrition care in routine clinical care: Co-development of digital nutrition educational resources for multiple sclerosis management and its metabolic comorbidities(Saudi Digital Library, 2025) Allogmanny, Shoroog Mohammad A; Probst, Yasmine; Stefoska-Needham, AnitaAlthough multiple sclerosis (MS) has no cure, nutrition has the potential to delay MS-related disability progression and improve quality-of-life for people living with MS (plwMS) by managing metabolic comorbidities, some symptoms and malnutrition. Current evidence-based nutrition approaches for MS align with national dietary guidelines. However, plwMS often encounter contradictory, non-evidence-based nutrition advice, creating confusion and nutritional risk without clear guidance from healthcare professionals (HCPs). Routine MS care offers an ideal setting for supporting nutrition care, defined as practices by HCPs to improve nutritional status through screening, advice, or referral. Effective implementation requires sufficient knowledge, skills and educational resources. However, the educational resources available for HCPs remain unclear, and there is a paucity of evidence investigating the perspectives and needs of key stakeholders, namely HCPs and plwMS, regarding the integration of nutrition into routine MS care. This PhD research aimed to co-develop nutrition education resources with key stakeholders and evaluate their usability to support the integration of nutrition into routine MS care. Four interrelated studies were undertaken, guided by the Design Thinking framework (Empathising, Defining, Ideating, Prototyping, and Testing) and underpinned by principles of Participatory Action Research. It was hypothesised that nutrition-related care should be integrated into routine MS care to empower plwMS to improve their health, thereby mitigating some MS-related complications (e.g., metabolic comorbidities). Nutrition education resources may be required to support HCPs in facilitating this integration. Study 1, a scoping review of peer-reviewed (n = 7) and grey literature (n = 32), identified a scarcity of evidence-based, MS-specific nutrition education resources. Of the 13 resources addressing nutrition, only two were HCP training programs and two were patient education materials (PEMs); none were co-developed with key stakeholders. These findings informed subsequent studies. Study 2 surveyed 35 dietitians and 66 non-dietitian HCPs to examine current practices, perceptions, confidence, and resource needs related to MS nutrition care. While 73.3% reported providing nutrition advice, only 28.7% routinely screened for malnutrition. Dietitians reported significantly higher perceptions of role importance, relevance of nutrition management for MS and its symptoms, and confidence in providing nutrition advice compared with non-dietitian HCPs, though dietitians’ median confidence scores were not “very confident”. Nearly all respondents expressed a need for MS-specific nutrition education resources. Study 3 involved six focus groups with 25 plwMS to explore their experiences and needs. Qualitative analysis generated three key themes and seven subthemes: (1) nutrition guidance is overlooked in routine MS care due to HCPs prioritising medication over nutrition, resulting in the perception that plwMS are their own nutrition educators; (2) routine nutrition guidance is needed, highlighting the desire to receive meaningful MS-related nutrition information from HCPs with nutrition knowledge for MS; and (3) person-centred care is a priority, highlighting the importance of acknowledging that no one-size-fits-all approach exists for plwMS, and supporting a holistic approach to the coordination of nutrition care. Studies 1–3 informed Study 4, structured in three phases. Phase 1 included two workshops (n = 9 HCPs; n = 14 plwMS) and ten HCP interviews to understand the problem and ideate solutions. Four themes were generated: (1) addressing healthcare barriers to providing nutrition education in MS care; (2) supporting person centred nutrition communication; (3) fostering equity through accessible and inclusive MS-specific educational resources, such as an online website hosting downloadable PEMs and HCP learning materials; and (4) the integral role of the dietitian in MS care. Phase 2 developed prototypes, a clinician guide, a screening tool, and PEMs, hosted on a central website. Phase 3 tested prototype usability via interviews (18 HCPs; 15 plwMS), generating four themes: (1) clear, targeted messaging; (2) visually engaging and informative design; (3) lived experiences informing choices; and (4) trust, credibility and connection. Feedback guided resource refinements to support their adoption into MS care. Overall, this PhD research found that nutrition is overlooked in routine MS care, highlighting a clear need for its integration through nutrition education resources. Effective nutrition care for plwMS requires an individualised, person-centred approach supported by a multidisciplinary healthcare team to empower informed nutrition choices and address MS management, including metabolic comorbidities. This research led to the co-development of MS-specific, evidence-based, digitally accessible nutrition educational resources.21 0Item Restricted The Impact of Audit Data Analytics in The Relationship Between Internal and External Auditors in The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia(Saudi Digital Library, 2026) ALHARBI, MONA; DUC, PHAN; MICHAEL, KENDThe rapid advancement of technology is significantly reshaping auditing practices globally. Among these innovations, Audit Data Analytics (ADA) has emerged as a transformative tool, enhancing the capacity of auditors to analyse large datasets, detect risks, and improve decision-making. This thesis investigates the impact of ADA on the relationship between internal auditor (IA) and external auditor (EA) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), a region undergoing rapid digital and economic transformation aligned with the kingdom’s “Vision 2030.” Despite the importance of the IA–EA cooperation for audit quality and efficiency, limited research has explored how emerging technologies such as ADA influence these dynamics, particularly in developing economies. Drawing upon Relational Coordination Theory (RCT), this study develops a conceptual model centred on organisational design, inter-organisational networks, and performance outcomes. The research examines how ADA affects IA attributes (competence, objectivity, quality of work), EA attributes (work style, risk assessment), and IA–EA cooperation, ultimately impacting audit effectiveness and audit fees. This study adopts a multiple methods approach employing an explanatory sequential multiple-methods design. The researcher first conducted 22 semi-structured interviews with internal and external auditors, followed by a survey receiving 107 valid responses. Findings from both interviews and survey data reveal that ADA has a strong positive influence on IA competencies. IAs have enhanced their data analytical capabilities, critical thinking, and technological skills, with many organisations recruiting specialists in business intelligence, data science, and artificial intelligence. ADA also strengthens IA objectivity by minimising human bias and allowing auditors to rely on data-driven assessments. Furthermore, audit quality has improved, as auditors are now able to perform full-population testing, leading to higher accuracy and reliability. The influence of ADA on EA attributes is more nuanced. Interviews suggest some improvements in EA work styles, such as greater precision and standardisation. However, survey results indicate that these changes are still evolving, with no statistically significant relationship yet established. Nevertheless, ADA has significantly enhanced EA risk assessment capabilities, allowing EAs to detect anomalies, reassess risks, and make more informed audit decisions. In terms of IA–EA cooperation, ADA has begun to foster stronger collaboration, although complete integration remains a work in progress. Improvements in IA outputs and increased reliability of IA work are gradually encouraging greater EA reliance. Both qualitative and quantitative findings support the view that ADA acts as a relational enabler, facilitating better communication and reducing audit redundancies. Regarding audit outcomes, the study finds that ADA adoption enhances audit effectiveness by improving audit quality, transparency, and timeliness. However, its impact on audit fees is mixed; while ADA reduces duplication and improves efficiency in some cases, the costs of technology adoption can offset potential fee reductions. In conclusion, this thesis indicates that ADA is not merely a technological tool but a catalyst for reshaping auditor relationships, enhancing audit processes, and fostering cooperation in KSA. It offers valuable insights for practitioners, policymakers, and researchers seeking to understand and leverage emerging technologies to improve audit quality in rapidly evolving economic landscapes.13 0Item Restricted Integrating Educational Data Mining and Artificial Intelligence to Enhance ICT User Satisfaction and Administrative Efficiency in Saudi Educational Institutions(Saudi Digital Library, 2026) Almaghrabi, Hamad; Soh, BenThe integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in educational administration offers transformative opportunities to enhance efficiency and user satisfaction, but also presents significant challenges. Despite the potential of ICT systems to stream- line processes and support data-driven decision-making, their implementation is often hindered by fragmented infrastructures, inconsistent adoption, and limited alignment with user needs. This thesis addresses these challenges through the design and evaluation of the AI-integrated IiCE framework, developed to strengthen ICT adoption and administrative performance in educational institutions. Educational administrative environments are inherently complex, characterised by mul- tidimensional data, dynamic workflows, and overlapping responsibilities that often expose systemic inefficiencies. The proposed IiCE framework leverages predictive analytics and user-centred design principles to generate actionable insights for optimising ICT utilisa- tion. Its key objectives include identifying the determinants of user satisfaction, enhancing decision-making processes, and fostering an organisational culture that supports technolo- gical innovation and acceptance. Employing a mixed-methods research approach, this study investigates current ICT ad- option practices in Saudi educational institutions. Quantitative and qualitative analyses, incorporating stakeholder perceptions and institutional data, were conducted to uncover adoption barriers and performance gaps. Machine learning (ML) models were applied to predict user satisfaction trends, while SHAP (Shapley Additive Explanations) techniques provided interpretability by highlighting the most influential factors affecting adoption. The framework also integrates adaptive training modules, modular deployment strategies, and continuous feedback mechanisms to ensure sustainability and contextual adaptability. Grounded in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 for digital transformation, the evaluation of the IiCE framework demonstrates its ability to enhance administrative workflows, optim- ise resource allocation, and strengthen stakeholder engagement. Expert validation con- firms its effectiveness in mitigating inefficiencies, promoting collaboration, and supporting evidence-based management practices. This research contributes to the fields of educational administration and ICT innova- tion by presenting an adaptable, AI-driven framework that bridges the gap between tech- nological potential and practical implementation. The findings underscore the value of advanced AI techniques in managing ICT complexity, driving user satisfaction, and im- proving institutional efficiency. Future work may extend this framework through real-time analytics, greater model interpretability, and cross-domain applications for broader educational impact7 0Item Restricted User Experience and Media Design in Saudi Digital Journalism: A Comparative Study of Migratory and Original Newspapers(Saudi Digital Library, 2025) Alkhomees, Eman Ibrahim; Bahfen, NasyaAbstract This doctoral thesis explores the relationship between interface design and user experience in Saudi digital newspapers, with a specific emphasis on the contrast between migratory platforms (originating from print) and born-digital platforms. It addresses a critical gap in digital journalism literature, where online newspapers are often treated as structurally equivalent, with limited attention given to their institutional legacies or divergent design trajectories. In the Saudi context - where digital transformation aligns closely with state-led reforms under Vision 2030- this distinction becomes particularly significant. Interface design in this setting reflects not only functional usability considerations but also deeper editorial philosophies and ideological commitments. The study is grounded in a reconceptualised framework of Media Richness Theory (MRT), wherein interface richness is articulated across five dimensions: Layout Clarity, Multimedia Integration, Interactivity, Personalisation and Customisation, and Aesthetic and Emotional Engagement. These dimensions provided a consistent analytical lens across all phases of the research. Methodologically, the study adopts a multi-phase, mixed-methods approach underpinned by a pragmatic epistemology. Phase One involves a quantitative content analysis of the front pages of ten Saudi digital newspapers (five migratory, five born-digital), systematically coding design attributes aligned with MRT. Phase Two consists of a mixed-method user experience (UX) experiment with Generation Z participants (n=18), combining behavioural metrics, think-aloud protocols, and screen-recorded task performance to capture real-time cognitive and affective responses. Phase Three employs semi-structured post-experience interviews to elicit reflective narratives concerning platform interaction, design perception, and emotional resonance. Findings from Phase One reveal significant structural divergences between platform types. Born-digital outlets exhibited stronger integration of multimedia elements, clearer visual hierarchies, and more prominent interactive affordances. Phase Two demonstrated that born-digital platforms facilitated more fluid user navigation and reduced cognitive friction, while legacy platforms often triggered frustration due to visual clutter, unclear icons, or delayed responsiveness. Interview data from Phase Three further highlighted Generation Z’s expectations for intuitive, transparent, and participatory digital environments expectations that were more consistently met by born-digital interfaces. Across all phases, the research shows that institutional origin remains a powerful determinant of interface design strategy, which in turn shapes both user cognition and emotional experience, including perceptions of usability, interactivity, and layout clarity among Generation Z users. The thesis contributes to theory by expanding Media Richness Theory into the domain of interface design in digital journalism. It also advances UX methodology by demonstrating the value of triangulating structural analysis, real-time behavioural observation, and post-interaction reflection. Practically, it offers evidence-based recommendations for Saudi and regional news organisations seeking to enhance digital engagement with younger audiences. By positioning the interface as a site of institutional meaning-making, communicative richness, and user affect, the study reaffirms the centrality of design in shaping the future of journalism in Arab digital contexts.10 0Item Restricted What Can We Learn About the Demands of Different Texts from Eye Movement Patterns for Less Proficient Readers?(Saudi Digital Library, 2026) Alruthaya, Salma; Mantei, Jessica; Kervin. Lisa; White, SoniaAustralian primary school classrooms are well stocked with authentic literature that offers stories rich in themes, topics, language, and opportunities for developing reading proficiency. Picturebooks, eBooks, novels, etc, often called “authentic” texts, are popular for read alouds, critical literacy, and supporting readers to make sense of the world. However, they are less often used for reading instruction or reading assessment. Instead, classroom reading assessment is increasingly characterised by the use of resources that are contrived to test concepts about print texts, phonic knowledge, vocabulary, etc. While these contrived texts are useful for assessing the secretarial skills of reading, they do not allow for the opportunity to understand the ways children respond to more complex text demands, such as reading across modes and making meanings from layered and complex messages. This narrowing of reading assessment resources is even more prevalent for less proficient readers, potentially delaying opportunities for developing reading proficiency, which is problematic, because a reader who is already “struggling” has no time to waste. What are the demands of these “authentic” texts? And how can we support all readers to read them? This thesis examines what eye movement evidence, captured during a common classroom reading assessment, can reveal about the underlying reading demands of authentic texts for less proficient readers. Specifically, it aims to: (1) deepen understanding of picturebook complexity; (2) examine how less proficient readers negotiate multimodal demands; and (3) generate practical implications that align text selection with student needs. These research questions guide the inquiry: • What reading strategies does the capture of readers’ eye movements reveal as they read aloud? • What information within the text do readers use or omit according to eye movements and miscue analysis? • What implications can be drawn from Eye Movement Miscue Analysis (EMMA) to guide the selection and use of resources in the teaching of reading? EMMA was chosen in this study because it brings together observable outcomes of reading (oral reading and comprehension) with real-time process data (eye movement), thereby overcoming the limitations of conventional accuracy and fluency driven assessments that mask how readers actually construct meaning, particularly in more complex texts. A mixed-methods, descriptive case study design was employed across two sequential phases. Phase One re-examined an archival EMMA dataset comprising 26 below-benchmark participants aged 7–11 years (Years 2–6), reading picturebooks classified using the Pinnell and Fountas (2007) text complexity guide. Phase One data found that, while the complexity guide supported the identification of certain reading challenges for participants, a series of unanticipated difficulties indicated the need for an expanded guide that could account for the multimodal demands in authentic literature. Phase Two focused on knowledge translation, applying Phase One insights to develop and review an Expanded Text Complexity Guide for teachers. Fourteen child participants aged 8–11 years (Years 3–6) engaged with a new picturebook. This Phase examined in particular the demands within the text generated by the multimodal elements of the book. Methodologically, the thesis establishes EMMA as a method capable of capturing the fine-grained interplay between reader and text. Substantively, it offers a research-informed Expanded Text Complexity Guide and advocates for wider instructional use of authentic texts to cultivate strategic and adaptive reading. Collectively, these contributions refine theoretical understanding of text complexity, enrich assessment practice, and equip educators with valuable, actionable insights for fostering literacy for children in an increasingly multimodal world.17 0