Artificial Intelligence Driven Electric Vehicle Traction System for Sustainable Transportation

A Master of Science thesis in Electrical Engineering by Shoaib Ahmed entitled, “Optimizing the Performance of a Microwave Tomography System for Biomedical Applications”, submitted in April 2025. Thesis advisor is Dr. Habib ur Rehman and thesis co-advisors are Dr. Usman Tariq and Dr. Ammar Hasan. Soft copy is available (Thesis, Completion Certificate, Approval Signatures, and AUS Archives Consent Form).Increased dependency on fossil fuels as a source of energy has contributed significantly to environmental pollution and rising global temperatures. The automotive industry is making a transition from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles that use Gasoline, diesel, or other fossil fuel-dependent energy sources towards battery electric vehicles (BEV) that use an electric motor that can be powered by cleaner modes of energy. However, a significant impediment of BEVs is that lithium-ion batteries have about 100 times less energy density than fossil fuels such as gasoline in terms of both weight and volume. Therefore, a need exists to optimize the performance of lithium-ion batteries to elongate their lifetime. In BEVs, commonly lithium-ion batteries power a field-oriented induction motor drive system that propels the vehicle. The objective of this work is to improve the performance of an indirect field-oriented (IFO) induction motor drive system using three different control approaches and compare their performance in terms of efficient speed regulation and battery energy consumption. The indirect field-oriented control (IFOC) comprises of three control loops: two inner loops control currents while one outer loop regulates the motor speed. The speed control loop is the focus of this study. Firstly, a baseline is developed using a PI controller, which is then replaced by a fuzzy logic controller (FLC) and a reinforcement learning (RL) agent. The FLC and RL above fall under the umbrella of artificial intelligence (AI). Thus, the study aims to investigate and validate that AI can be used to improve the performance of electric vehicles by improving speed regulation, reducing battery energy consumption, and thus increasing the driving range and, hence, the battery lifetime. Also, this study investigates the effect of different control techniques on the battery temperature.College of EngineeringDepartment of Electrical EngineeringMaster of Science in Electrical Engineering (MSEE

Impact of Digital Transformation on Accounting Systems in the UAE’s Aviation Industry

A Master of Science in Accounting (MSA) by Salama Obaid Khalaf Bin Tooq Almarri entitled, “Impact of Digital Transformation on Accounting Systems in the UAE’s Aviation Industry”, submitted in April 2025. Thesis advisor is Dr. Eid Alotaibi. Soft copy is available (Thesis, Approval Signatures, Completion Certificate, and AUS Archives Consent Form).School of Business AdministrationDepartment of AccountingMaster of Science in Accounting (MSA

Hedging Strategies Using Financial Derivatives in Different Industries

A Master of Science in Finance (MSF) by Sergei Likhachev entitled, “Hedging Strategies Using Financial Derivatives in Different Industries”, submitted in May 2025. Thesis advisor is Dr. Donghyeok Jang. Soft copy is available (Thesis, Approval Signatures, Completion Certificate, and AUS Archives Consent Form).This paper examines the impact of financial derivatives that companies usually use in terms of hedging external potential risks on the firm value among public companies from all industries that are traded in the United States stock market from 1998 to 2024. This study examines the impact of hedging on the firm value based on whole data sample, industry subsample and crisis subsample analysis. The results of the research show that hedging has weak negative impact on the firm values, while industry analysis reveals that impact of hedging is more industry-specific as companies experience both positive and negative impact on the firm value. Crises analysis emphasizes the significance of hedging in affecting the firm value, but the direction of the effect is mixed due to crises-specific features and premises.School of Business AdministrationDepartment of FinanceMaster of Science in Finance (MSF

On some Quadratic Diophantine Equations And Semiperfect Numbers

A Master of Science in Mathematics by Imane Sahel entitled, “On some Quadratic Diophantine Equations and Semiperfect Numbers”, submitted in April 2025. Thesis advisor is Dr. Abdel Rahman Yousef and thesis co-advisor is Dr. Issam Louhichi. Soft copy is available (Thesis, Completion Certificate, Approval Signatures, and AUS Archives Consent Form).This thesis investigates quadratic Diophantine equations of the form χ^α + y² = z² and explores properties of semiperfect and weird numbers. We derive explicit formulas for the number of integer solutions when χ^α is a perfect square and when it is not. Using these results, we make some observations about odd and even perfect numbers. The second part examines sum of divisor based number classifications; we study abundant, semiperfect and primitive weird numbers.College of Arts and SciencesDepartment of Mathematics and StatisticsMaster of Science in Mathematics (MSMTH

A Novel Steel Reinforcement Scheme for 3D Printed Concrete Beams: A Study on Shear Behaviour

A Master of Science thesis in Civil Engineering by Mohamed Ashraf Khalifa entitled, “A Novel Steel Reinforcement Scheme for 3D Printed Concrete Beams: A Study on Shear Behaviour”, submitted in June 2025. Thesis advisor is Dr. Adil Tamimi and thesis co-advisor is Dr. Sami Tabsh. Soft copy is available (Thesis, Completion Certificate, Approval Signatures, and AUS Archives Consent Form).This thesis presents an innovative steel reinforcement scheme for 3D Printed Concrete (3DPC) beams, developed to enhance structural performance while maintaining compatibility with the 3D Concrete Printing (3DCP) automated construction technology. The proposed reinforcement system integrates U-shaped structural steel channels with welded shear studs directly into the printing process to develop a composite beam system that eliminates the need for conventional formwork or manual reinforcement placement. A total of twenty shallow beams were fabricated using a robotic-arm extrusion printer and tested under both three-point and four-point static loading configurations to assess the influence of key study parameters such as beam width and height, channel geometry and orientation, and level of composite interaction on the shear behaviour. Experimental results confirmed that the proposed reinforcement scheme significantly increased shear strength, improved ductility, and enhanced residual load capacity, all whilst supporting full-autonomous construction. The beam tested beam specimens exhibited an average Ductility Index (η) of 2.3, an average Energy Dissipation Factor (EDF) of 2.9, and more than one-half of them demonstrated a Residual Capacity Factor (RCF) exceeding 50% at twice the displacement at peak load, indicating substantial deformation capacity and continued load resistance beyond failure. This study establishes that the integration of structural steel channels into 3DPC beams offers an automation-friendly solution to the longstanding challenge of reinforcement in 3DPC structures. A theoretical model based on the principles of mechanics of materials was also considered to determine the fraction of the shear strength contributions by the printed concrete and structural steel channel in resisting the applied load effect. The model demonstrated that the steel reinforcement accounted for an average of 7.5% of the total shear capacity of the composite sections considered in this study. Two predictive analytical models are proposed for the shear strength of 3DPC beams reinforced by steel channels with welded shear studs: one implicitly includes the contribution of the steel channel to shear resistance within that of the concrete, while the other explicitly quantifies the shear contribution of the steel channel.College of EngineeringDepartment of Civil EngineeringBachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (BSCE

Experimental Investigation Into the Fire Performance of GFRP-Reinforced Concrete Beams

A Master of Science thesis in Civil Engineering by Mohammed Al Dawood entitled, “Experimental Investigation Into the Fire Performance of GFRP-Reinforced Concrete Beams”, submitted in June 2025. Thesis advisor is Dr. Farid Abed. Soft copy is available (Thesis, Completion Certificate, Approval Signatures, and AUS Archives Consent Form).This thesis presents an experimental investigation into the fire performance of GFRP-reinforced concrete beams, focusing on flexural capacity, bond behavior, and the effectiveness of fire-protective strategies. Full-scale beams were subjected to standard fire exposure per ASTM E119, with key variables including fire protection type (intumescent paint, cement-based mortar), anchorage zone length, and lap splice detailing. Results show that unprotected GFRP-reinforced beams exhibited rapid degradation in flexural capacity, with ultimate moments dropping by over 40% after 180 minutes of fire exposure, and bottom bar temperatures exceeding 550°C—well above the glass transition point of 110°C. Beams protected with Sikacrete 213F mortar showed a maximum internal temperature of only 150°C, displaying minimal spalling or cracking. Intumescent-painted beams offered partial protection, with bottom bar temperatures around 450°C and moderate structural deterioration. Beams with reduced anchorage zones and shorter lap splices displayed an increase in deflection. Comparative analysis confirms that only cementitious coatings consistently preserve structural integrity. Additionally, results show that an increase in lap splice length retains approximately 84% of the moment capacity of a continuously reinforced beam, whereas a shorter lap splice length does not. Additionally, during fire exposure, longer lap splice exhibits similar behavior to continuously reinforced beam. These findings highlight the vulnerability of GFRP systems to fire and support the development of targeted fire-resistance guidelines for the safe design and application of GFRP-reinforced concrete elements.College of EngineeringDepartment of Civil EngineeringMaster of Science in Civil Engineering (MSCE

Photoactivated carbon dots immobilized on cellulose for antibacterial activity and biofilm inhibition

Pathogenic bacterial infections represent a major threat to human health, which is worsened by the rise of antibiotic resistance stemming from misuse. Carbon dots (CCM-PBA-NH₂) were synthesized and examined for their potential as photo-activated antimicrobial agents to address this issue. Various characterization methods were employed to investigate the structure and morphology of the CCM-PBA-NH₂ carbon dots (CDs). Techniques including UV-VIS and fluorescence spectroscopy, FTIR, zeta potential analysis, Raman spectroscopy, XRD, SEM and TEM were utilized to assess their physicochemical properties, such as size, shape, surface functionalities and charge distribution. These carbon dots exhibited strong antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. They effectively prevented biofilm formation and disrupted preformed biofilms while displaying low cytotoxicity toward mammalian cells at concentrations of 0.1 mg/mL. The antibacterial properties of carbon dots were also evaluated on cellulose and oxidized cellulose fiber surfaces, where a significant reduction in bacterial growth was noted. CD-modified oxidized cellulose displayed strong adhesion, positioning carbon dots as a promising candidate for use in antimicrobial materials, including wound dressings and sterilization tools. Combining carbon dots with biocompatible carriers, like cellulose, presents a versatile and effective strategy for fighting bacterial infections.American University of SharjahAbu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC)Emirates NBDSharjah Electricity Water & Gas Authority (SEWA)Technology Innovation Institute (TII)GSK sponsors of the 4th Forum for Women in Research (QUWA

Economic Diplomacy And Its Effect On Trade

A Master of Business Administration (MBA) by Rashid Ghanem Al Hajri entitled, “Economic Diplomacy And Its Effect On Trade”, submitted in May 2025. Thesis advisor is Dr. Khusrav Gaibulloev. Soft copy is available (Thesis, Approval Signatures, Completion Certificate, and AUS Archives Consent Form).Using diplomatic techniques to advance national economic interests internationally is known as economic diplomacy. Its impact on commerce includes opening up new markets, strengthening bilateral ties, and facilitating agreements. Through active international collaboration and strategic partnerships, economic diplomacy has improved the United Arab Emirate standing in international trade, increased non-oil exports, and drawn investment. This paper examines how economic diplomacy has shaped and improved the United Arab Emirate’s performance in international trade. The United Arab Emirate has intentionally positioned itself as a worldwide commercial powerhouse. One of the main factors propelling the United Arab Emirate’s trade growth and diversification is economic diplomacy, which includes the use of diplomatic channels, trade agreements, strategic partnerships, and foreign policy instruments to advance national economic goals. The study looks at how the United Arab Emirate uses international organisations, bilateral and multilateral trade agreements, and foreign missions to open up new markets, draw in Foreign Direct Investment, and improve trade conditions. This study offers a thorough grasp of the relationship between diplomatic involvement and commerce outcomes by examining significant trade agreements, diplomatic endeavours, and trade statistics from the previous 20 years. As part of its long-term economic strategy, which includes Vision 2030 and several free trade agreements with nations in Asia, Africa, and Europe, it also evaluates the effects of regional geopolitical dynamics and the United Arab Emirate’s initiatives to promote the non-oil industry. Government publications, scholarly works, trade databases, and interviews with economic specialists were the sources of both primary and secondary data. The results show that the United Arab Emirate’s persistent trade growth has been greatly aided by its aggressive and practical economic diplomacy, especially in non-oil industries like technology, banking, tourism, and logistics. The report also emphasises how economic diplomacy improves the United Arab Emirate’s legitimacy and appeal as a trading partner in a world market that is becoming more and more competitive, in addition to strengthening bilateral ties.School of Business AdministrationDepartment of Management, Strategy and EntrepreneurshipMaster of Business Administration (MBA

Audit Quality and the Health of the Health Industry

A Master of Business Administration (MBA) by Nour Kousa entitled, “Audit Quality and the Health of the Health Industry”, submitted in May 2025. Thesis advisor is Dr. Feras M. Salama. Soft copy is available (Thesis, Approval Signatures, Completion Certificate, and AUS Archives Consent Form).Audit quality plays a key role in shaping corporate financial stability, especially in heavily regulated sectors such as pharmaceuticals. While past research has examined the general effects of audit quality on companies, its specific impact on the financial stability of pharmaceutical firms remains underexplored. This study addresses this gap by comparing the United States and European markets, focusing on firms audited by the largest global audit networks (Big Four) versus those audited by smaller audit firms. Using a comprehensive dataset, the analysis reveals that firms audited by the largest global audit networks exhibit lower financial volatility and more stable returns, likely due to enhanced transparency and reduced information asymmetry. In contrast, firms audited by smaller audit firms demonstrate higher average returns but greater instability, suggesting a risk-return trade-off that may appeal to risk-tolerant investors. Notably, the largest global audit networks deliver consistent financial stability in both the United States and Europe, underscoring the robustness of their standardized practices. However, smaller audit firms in Europe show significantly higher volatility than their United States counterparts, implying that regulatory compliance alone does not ensure audit quality. The study also challenges the assumption that frequent auditor rotation improves outcomes; instead, longer auditor relationships, coupled with rigorous standards, may enhance financial oversight, particularly in complex industries like pharmaceuticals. These findings advocate for reconsidering mandatory auditor rotation policies and strengthening oversight of smaller audit firms to improve reporting quality and investor confidence.School of Business AdministrationDepartment of Management, Strategy and EntrepreneurshipMaster of Business Administration (MBA

Development of a MOF-based Material for Cholesterol Detection

A Master of Science thesis in Biomedical Engineering by Heba Farid Abed entitled, “Development of a MOF-based Material for Cholesterol Detection”, submitted in May 2025. Thesis advisor is Dr. Rana Sabouni and thesis co-advisor is Dr. Mehdi Ghommem. Soft copy is available (Thesis, Completion Certificate, Approval Signatures, and AUS Archives Consent Form).Cholesterol detection is essential for early diagnosis and monitoring of cholesterol-related diseases, such as atherosclerosis, hypercholesterolemia, and liver diseases. A variety of nanomaterials have been designed and synthesized for cholesterol detection via electrochemical and spectrophotometric techniques. Metal organic frameworks (MOFs) have emerged as promising detector materials for cholesterol sensing. Recent research has explored MOFs as spectrophotometric cholesterol sensors with remarkable performance in terms of limit of detection (LOD) and selectivity. Given the growing interest in cholesterol sensing and limitations of existing biosensors, this thesis aims to develop a novel MOF-based spectrophotometric sensing platform for cholesterol detection. First, this thesis reviews recent advances in MOF-based spectrophotometric cholesterol sensors, outlining the different mechanistic roles of MOFs in cholesterol detection, current challenges, and potential applications of MOF-based sensors for cholesterol detection in point-of-care devices and medical diagnostics. Then, iron-based MOF (Fe-BTC) is introduced as a novel, peroxidase mimic nanozyme for cholesterol detection, marking its first reported use in this application. Characterization studies, including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and zeta potential, revealed stable, amorphous nature of Fe-BTC and potential peroxidase activity. Parametric studies including pH, time, temperature, and reagent concentrations were performed to determine optimal conditions for H2O2 and cholesterol detection. Mechanistic studies demonstrated biosensor operation via OH· radical formation by Fe-BTC. The present biosensor achieved a cholesterol limit of detection (LOD) of 2.91 μM and 2.88 μM at 25 ⁰C and 37 ⁰C cholesterol incubation, respectively, with a linear detection range of 6.56–78.75 μM. The biosensor had good selectivity to cholesterol in the presence of interfering analytes, including glycine, uric acid, glucose, and NaCl. Overall, our novel Fe-BTC-based biosensor demonstrated comparable performance to nanomaterial-based cholesterol sensors reported in the literature and shows great promise for cholesterol detection via spectrophotometric methods.College of EngineeringMultidisciplinary ProgramsMaster of Science in Biomedical Engineering (MSBME