United Arab Emirates University
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THE EFFECT OF WORK-LIFE RESPONSIBILITIES ON THE WELL-BEING OF FEMALE EMPLOYEES: A UAE CASE STUDY
Get PDFThis study examines the possible conflict between work commitments and family obligations and its implications for working women\u27s well-being. In this respect, in-depth interviews were held with a sample of twenty female employees working in different departments of the Abu Dhabi Government. The collected qualitative data have been analyzed through frameworks drawn from the concepts of the Work-Life Balance (WLB) and the Work-Family Conflict (WFC), specifically considering the Job Demands- Resources (JD-R) and the Conservation of Resources (COR) theories. The findings probably indicate that working women encounter substantial challenges in their daily work, such as long working hours, lack of adequate time off, and other work demands that are quite stressful and adversely impact their well-being. High levels of stress and anxiety, as well as other symptoms, like fatigue and tension diseases, can result also from the pressure of meeting various demands. On the other hand, working women often experience emotional turmoil and guilt while trying to balance their job and family responsibilities. Findings indicate that women who receive organizational support and have flexible working hours are better able to handle work-family challenges. Additionally, the research emphasizes the importance of establishing boundaries and adopting self-care practices to safeguard women\u27s well-being. This study establishes that tackling WFC is essential not only for the well-being of female employees but also for boosting women\u27s ability to contribute to social and organizational advancement. These findings improve the comprehension of the sociocultural and organizational factors that influence the work-life balance experiences of Emirati women, providing valuable insights for policymakers and organizations aiming to establish equitable and supportive workplaces
OPTIMIZING PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING WITH ADVANCED RECONSTRUCTION TECHNIQUES: COMPRESSIVE SENSING AND DEEP LEARNING
Get PDFPhotoacoustic Tomography (PAT) is a noninvasive medical imaging technique that combines the advantages of optical imaging and ultrasonic detection, offering deep tissue visualization with high resolution. Despite its potential, the effectiveness of PAT is dependent on the accuracy and efficiency of the underlying imaging algorithms. This thesis aims to enhance the resolution and speed of PAT imaging through the integration of compressive sensing (CS) and deep learning techniques, targeting both full-view and limited-view sensor configurations. Two model-based CS iterative algorithms are developed: relaxed-basis pursuit via alternating direction method of multipliers (rBP-ADMM), and split Bregman total variation (SBTV) formulation. Additionally, Plug-and-Play (PnP) techniques to further refine these algorithms are explored. For model-free deep learning approaches, algorithm unrolling techniques are implemented for creating networks that bypass traditional system matrix modeling and parameter tuning. The methods demonstrated significant improvements in computational efficiency, with a 92% reduction for the iterative algorithms. The SBTV enhanced with bilateral filtering improved structural similarity index measures (SSIM) by 11-17%. The unrolled deep learning networks achieved remarkable accuracy, particularly the SBTV network, which displayed a 98% accuracy across all limited-view sensor configurations tested. The thesis thus introduces novel CS algorithms and deep learning frameworks that significantly enhance the speed and quality of PAT image reconstruction. The integration of PnP techniques and algorithm unrolling represents a significant advancement in the field of medical imaging
Modeling at the nanometric scale of interfacial defects of a semiconductor heterostructure in the isotropic and anisotropic cases for the study of the influence of stresses
Get PDFThis work aims to determine the effect of stresses caused by dislocation networks placed at the interface of a semiconductor heterostructure of the thin GaAs/Si system. In this case, we use a mathematical modeling by Fourier series expansion to numerically simulate the stresses for the two cases of isotropic and anisotropic elasticity in order to predict the mechanical behavior of the heterostructure in the presence of interfacial dislocations while respecting well-defined stress boundary conditions. The elastic stress relaxation is reached for a layer thickness threshold of the GaAs deposit on the Si substrate not exceeding 5 nm
A 4-Node Shell Finite Element based on Assumed Bending and Membrane Strains for Static Analysis of Plates and Shells
Get PDFIn this paper the development of a new rectangular flat shell element is proposed. This element is called SBRPK-SBRIE. This element is used in the numerical analysis of thin structures based on the strain approach with linear elastic behavior. Combining bending and membrane elements yields the proposed element.The strain-based rectangular finite element for the thin plate bending element denoted SBRPK, and the strain-based membrane element denoted SBRIE. Several numerical examples have been conducted to assess the accuracy and reliability of the developed element compared with the theoretical results and other finite elements. Obtained results show its good performance compared to other elements in the literature
Who is keeping an eye on FAIR principles?
Get PDFThis systematic review is based on academic work published between 2016 and 2022 at The Networked Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations. The descriptors related to FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable) are to be found in title, summary and/or keywords. The result shows that there are few academic studies on FAIR principles; the University of Porto and consequently Portugal are most intensive in FAIR data research. Dissertations and PhD theses are predominant; information and computer science is the field of study most correlated with FAIR
EXPLORING EMIRATI HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS’ ATTITUDE TOWARDS READING IN L2 (ENGLISH)
Get PDFReading in a second language (L2) is a crucial skill for high school students as it helps to develop their second language proficiency and broadens their understanding of the world. It also holds substantial significance in both their personal and academic endeavors. Additionally, proficient L2 reading skills pave the way for promising prospects and professional opportunities. This study examines students’ attitudes towards reading academically and recreationally in L2 and the factors that contribute to these attitudes. The study sample comprised of 20 grade 11, UAE national male students (16-17 years old) enrolled in a public Applied Technology School (ATS) in Al Ain, United Arab Emirates. The study employed a qualitative approach, utilizing an open-ended questionnaire to gain insight into the students’ attitudes towards reading in their second language (English), as well as the various factors contributing to these attitudes. The thematic analysis of data employed an inductive approach to identify prominent patterns within the dataset. The study revealed that students had favorable attitudes towards reading in general, citing personal reasons such as entertainment and exploration of new worlds, as well as academic benefits including improved language skills, acquisition of new information, and enhance subject-specific understanding. However, the study revealed that most students preferred Arabic, their first language, citing reasons such as comfort, ease, and cultural connection. The study also revealed diverse attitudes among students towards reading in their second language (L2), with some holding favorable, negative, or neutral attitudes. Positive attitudes were associated with expanding horizons, cultural exposure, improving language and comprehension skills, and academic success, while negative attitudes were associated with difficulty or lack of L2 proficiency, disinterest in the subject matter, and a preference for activities perceived as more enjoyable or immediately rewarding. In terms of L2 reading genre preferences, the study revealed that the students preferred science fiction, non-fiction, and novels; however, in terms of medium preferences, the study revealed that there were many differences between students preferring traditional books and those preferring technology-based reading methods. The findings show the importance of recognizing and catering to students’ diverse attitudes towards reading in L2. By understanding the complex nature of L2 literacy development and providing culturally relevant materials, teachers can create inclusive learning environments that foster intrinsic motivation and engagement. Moreover, curriculum designers should prioritize the integration of diverse reading materials and mediums to support students\u27 L2 literacy development and encourage a positive attitude towards reading
PERFORMANCE ANALYSIS OF UNDERGROUND-TO-ABOVEGROUND COMMUNICATION IN AGRICULTURAL IOT NETWORKS
Get PDFThis thesis investigates the potential of LoRa, a low-power, wide-area networking technology, for establishing reliable communication between underground sensors and aboveground infrastructure. We comprehensively analyze LoRa\u27s performance in both single-hop and multi-hop configurations, considering the impact of diverse environmental factors such as soil composition, moisture content, underground transmission distance, and path loss on signal propagation. We delve into the crucial role of the spreading factor (SF) within the LoRa communication system, analyzing its influence on network performance. Furthermore, we develop a comprehensive mathematical model for bit error rate (BER) under various channel conditions, including additive white Gaussian noise (AWGN) and Rayleigh fading, encompassing multi-hop networks with decode-and-forward relays. Through simulations employing realistic Rayleigh fading scenarios, we validate the accuracy of our theoretical models. Our key findings highlight the importance of optimizing network parameters, particularly the SF, to achieve superior bit error rate performance, ultimately enhancing the overall network reliability. We demonstrate that multi-hop LoRa networks offer a significant advantage over single-hop configurations, especially in challenging underground environments. This extended reach via multi-hop makes LoRa a compelling technology for large-scale, reliable communication networks in diverse agricultural applications
PERSPECTIVES OF SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHERS ON THE TRANSITION OF STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS FROM HIGH SCHOOL TO UNIVERSITY IN AL AIN CITY IN THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Get PDFPost-secondary transition is a significant phase in the life of high school students with special needs. Special education teachers play a crucial role in supporting students in this process. This study aims at exploring the perspectives of special education teachers on transitioning high school students with special needs into university. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with four special education teachers in Al Ain City in the United Arab Emirates. The teachers were asked about their post-secondary transition planning, the post-secondary transition barriers they face, and finally the facilitation of smooth post-secondary transition. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the findings of the interviews. Findings revealed that special education teachers use different planning methods in practicing post-secondary transition in their schools such as organizing hands-on experiences, and meeting with the school personnel. They teach students certain skills during the transition stage, for example; independent living, and constant self-development. Special education teachers put in mind many considerations when planning post-secondary transition for instance; school grades, and personal preferences. They face many barriers in transitioning students including being underqualified in post-secondary transition, absence of post-secondary materials provided by schools, and lack of students’ discipline. Participants recommended that special education teachers need to work on developing their knowledge in post-secondary transition regardless of the availability of school support. The participants recommended students to work on building their self-confidence. In addition, parents are suggested to be honest while providing feedback to the special education teachers for the benefit of their children
EXPLORING ENGLISH LANGUAGE TEACHERS’ SELFEFFICACY BELIEFS IN RELATION TO TEACHING GIFTED STUDENTS
Get PDFThis study investigates the beliefs of English language teachers regarding their ability to identify and teach gifted students, focusing on how they perceive their own skills in teaching primary grade level students (grades 1, 2, and 3) with exceptional intellectual abilities in English language education. The study followed a qualitative research design and collected data using an open-ended survey consisting of questions that encouraged participants to provide detailed and unrestricted responses. This study also performed purposeful sampling to select respondents with the necessary knowledge and experience to offer rich and meaningful data. This study targeted English language teachers (n = 15) at Charter Schools in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. It also conducted snowball sampling by asking initial participants to refer to others who met the inclusion criteria. Data were analyzed in two stages: first, individual responses to each survey question were examined to understand teachers’ beliefs, and second, emerging themes were identified. The study showed that all participants expressed passion for educating gifted students. They reported using various teaching strategies to identify gifted students, such as differentiated instruction and assessment. They also reflected on their classroom management methods and the instruments they used to determine which students were gifted, with limited support from their schools regarding identification and resource provision. The teachers acknowledged the challenges in identifying and teaching gifted students, including time constraints and workload. Through their experience, the respondents provided valuable recommendations in the domain of gifted education, and the findings highlighted several practical implications and provided recommendations for future research
THE ROLE OF JUDICIAL DILIGENCE IN DEVELOPING ADMINISTRATIVE LAW IN THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Get PDFThe general rule is that the judge is obligated to adjudicate any dispute brought before him, so he must search for a solution within the folds of legislative texts, and then other sources of the legal rule, and the texts may not help the judge while looking at the cases before him, but he cannot refrain from ruling on the pretext of the absence of a text that can be applied to the case brought before him, so it was necessary for the judge to strive to search for an appropriate solution, otherwise he would be denying justice.Since administrative law is distinguished from other laws by a special nature based on the modernity of its origin and its judiciary, in addition to the continuous development of the disputes governed by this law, the scarcity of texts will remain an ally of the judge in his view of the disputes of this branch of law, which makes the administrative judge obligated in many cases to strive and innovate in search of appropriate solutions to these disputes, but the judge is not free in his efforts, he is not limited or stopped by a text, but is bound by restrictions imposed by the legislator sometimes, and others by which he restricts himself at other times. There is no doubt that this judicial effort plays a prominent role in developing administrative law, its rules and principles. Although administrative judiciary is an unknown term in the United Arab Emirates, given that administrative disputes are heard before administrative circuits and not administrative courts, in order to achieve the nature of the unified judiciary adopted by the UAE, the judges of the Federal Supreme Court have played a clear role in establishing and transferring the rules, theories and principles of administrative law over the past years. That judge has traveled, filling a gap, interpreting a text and motivating a legislator, riding the horse of diligence, armed with knowledge of the nature of things, encouraged by the inadequacy of texts, inspired by his openness to comparative laws, understanding the specificity of that dispute, being bound by texts and understanding the reality of his role