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Article
Publication date: 23 December 2015

Jasem A. Ahmed and M. A. Wahab

In this paper we propose exact thermoelastic stress, and iterative creep solutions for a non-uniformly heat generating and rotating cylindrical vessel made of functionally graded…

Abstract

In this paper we propose exact thermoelastic stress, and iterative creep solutions for a non-uniformly heat generating and rotating cylindrical vessel made of functionally graded thermal and mechanical properties. Equations of equilibrium, compatibility, stress-strain, and strain-displacement relations are solved to obtain closed-form initial stress and strain solutions. It is found that material gradient indices have significant influences on thermoelastic stress profiles. For creep analysis, Norton’s model is incorporated into rate forms of the above-mentioned equations to obtain time-dependent stress and strain results using an iterative method. Validity of our solutions are at first verified using finite element analysis, and numerical results found in the recent literature are improved. Investigation of effects of material gradients reveals that radial variation of density and creep coefficient have significant effects on strains histories, while Young’s modulus and thermal property distributions only influence stress redistribution at an early stage of creep deformation.

Article
Publication date: 1 January 2006

Jasem Al‐Awadhi and Ahmed Hersi

An attempt is made to produce a susceptibility surface runoff hazard map for Kuwait by integrating four maps: paleodrainage; topography; vegetation cover (extracted from a Landsat…

Abstract

Purpose

An attempt is made to produce a susceptibility surface runoff hazard map for Kuwait by integrating four maps: paleodrainage; topography; vegetation cover (extracted from a Landsat image of 2001); and soil.

Design/methodology/approach

Local expert knowledge, weighting methods like the Delphi method and the analytical hierarchy process (AHP), and GIS techniques were used to evaluate the factors controlling surface runoff hazard in Kuwait.

Findings

The susceptibility surface runoff hazard map produced indicates that a moderate class of surface runoff hazard in Kuwait averages 45.5 percent, followed by a low class (21 percent). The very low, high and very high classes constitute about 8, 18.5 and 15 percent, respectively.

Practical implications

The surface hazard map obtained from this study may be presented to the authorities concerned to be used as basic data for designing runoff flood prevention and mitigation measures.

Originality/value

The approach adopted in this study is new to Kuwait.

Details

Management of Environmental Quality: An International Journal, vol. 17 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1477-7835

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 7 July 2021

Allam Ahmed and Omer Gibreel

This article explores the current trends in civic engagement in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region after a decade of social media growth in the region.

Abstract

Purpose

This article explores the current trends in civic engagement in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region after a decade of social media growth in the region.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology is based on a case studies approach. In these case studies, the authors use an exploratory approach to case study research. The authors employ a mixed-method approach to exploring the development of civic engagement in the MENA region.

Findings

The study’s finding shows that the MENA region's social media growth has enabled digital natives to play a vital role in enriching and empowering their communities and their lives.

Research limitations/implications

The paper could have explored more examples from around the MENA region.

Practical implications

The paper's practical significance is the understanding that the ground is shifting around Internet access and how digital natives in the MENA region are employing it for their civic engagement initiative. It is an important indication that the MENA region's next innovation could be in the civic engagement arena. Unlike their parents, who are digital immigrants, these young and energetic digital natives are out to shape all aspects of their lives. Paving the way for more innovative and creative ways of civic engagement in the MENA region.

Originality/value

The paper explores civic engagement development in the MENA region, shedding light on the issues concerning MENA region youth such as cleaning the environment, waste and food recycling, combating extremism, developing education curricula and even promoting peace. The paper's value is that it gives an update on civic engagement in the MENA region.

Details

World Journal of Entrepreneurship, Management and Sustainable Development, vol. 17 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2042-5961

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 29 June 2010

Hasan Buabbas, Benachir Medjdoub and Yacine Rezgui

The purpose of this paper is to provide a clearer picture of the first establishment of school libraries in Kuwait. In addition, the paper explores the development of the school…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a clearer picture of the first establishment of school libraries in Kuwait. In addition, the paper explores the development of the school library between 1911 and 1962.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper adopts a qualitative research strategy. The interviews and documentation techniques have been utilized to gather data about the subject.

Findings

The findings traced the first appearance of the school library in Kuwait back to 1944. It showed that the development of the library encountered major difficulties.

Originality/value

The unique study reveals a branch of Kuwaiti education history hitherto concealed from its people, where the recognition of other disciplines in the field and the need for further study emerges.

Details

Library Review, vol. 59 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0024-2535

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 4 May 2023

Abdul Hafaz Ngah, Ramayah Thurasamy and Heesup Han

The issue is which third-party logistics to engage, and escalating customer complaints about service quality of third-party logistics (3PL) enhances the tendency of online…

Abstract

Purpose

The issue is which third-party logistics to engage, and escalating customer complaints about service quality of third-party logistics (3PL) enhances the tendency of online retailers to switch to another 3PL. The current study seeks to investigate the factors influencing the satisfaction and switching intention of 3PL services among online sellers in Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

Applying a purposive sampling method, data were gathered via an online survey among online sellers. Initially, the system gathered 418 respondents, but only 311 were useable for further analysis. Since we operationalised the measures as composites, a combination of reflective and formative measurement in the study and the study focuses on explanatory and predictive purposes, partial least squares structural equation modelling with SmartPLS 4 was applied to test the model developed.

Findings

The results indicated that conflict handling had a positive effect on satisfaction, and satisfaction had a negative relationship with the switching intention of 3PL among the online retailers. Moreover, satisfaction and customer relationship management sequentially mediated conflict handling and switching intention, whereas CRM strengthens the negative relationship between satisfaction and switching intention.

Research limitations/implications

The respondents only limit to the online sellers in Malaysia which based on purposive sampling method, thus the findings cannot be generalised to another countries.

Practical implications

The study offers insightful information for the managers of the 3PL in crafting a better policy to avoid switching behaviour among their customers. The conflict between customers and providers is unavoidable since consumers have unlimited demand and businesses have limited resources. The findings also benefit online sellers and 3PL service providers to create attractive marketing strategies for business sustainability.

Originality/value

The study developed a new model for the 3PL studies using the S-O-R model in introducing conflict handling and customer relationship management as the stimulus, customer's satisfaction as an organism and switching intention as a response. The study introduced single and sequential mediators also contributes to the S-O-R theory to predict the switching intention among the online sellers towards the 3PL providers. Another important contribution, customer relationship management, was confirmed to play a moderating role to influence the relationship between satisfaction and switching intention.

Details

International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management, vol. 53 no. 7/8
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0960-0035

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 27 February 2009

Robert Pech

Through an examination of current opinion and research on Emiratization, the United Arab Emirates' affirmative action policy in banks in Abu Dhabi, the purpose of this paper is to…

Abstract

Purpose

Through an examination of current opinion and research on Emiratization, the United Arab Emirates' affirmative action policy in banks in Abu Dhabi, the purpose of this paper is to describe contemporary and positive methods of educating and training young Emirates, as alternatives to the present systems which have a punitive orientation and frequently have negative outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

Relates ineffective and punitive methods of training at the present time to more humanistic methods such as initiating support systems, group‐work, simulation, role‐play and mentoring, as well as re‐interpretation of traditional Arabic values to better align young recruits with the demands of banking jobs in contemporary, multi‐cultural society.

Findings

Finds that positive training outcomes correlate with positive training methods that inculcate collegiality, initiative and competence within a customer service environment.

Originality/value

The analysis presented seeks to find solutions to the problem of young Emirates' high rate of attrition in financial workplaces. It uses a performance evaluation template to guide mentors and instructors to better train their recruits.

Details

Education, Business and Society: Contemporary Middle Eastern Issues, vol. 2 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1753-7983

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 14 August 2007

Jasem M. Alhumoud and Hani M. Alhumoud

The purpose of this paper is to determine the amount of different kinds of solid wastes produced, segregated, collected, stored, transported and disposed off in the governmental…

1924

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine the amount of different kinds of solid wastes produced, segregated, collected, stored, transported and disposed off in the governmental hospitals of Kuwait.

Design/methodology/approach

The research in this paper shows that all governmental hospitals were assessed in a period of six months (September, 2005 through December, 2005 and June, 2006 through July, 2006). The weight fraction of each component in the sorting sample was calculated by the weights of the components. The amount of non‐infectious and infectious waste generated in kg/day in each ward and various hospital blocks were determined and recorded.

Findings

The findings in this paper indicated that the waste generation rate is between 3.87 kg/bed/day and 7.44 kg/bed/day. Subsequently, this waste consists of 10,534.5 kg (71.44 percent) of domestic waste, 4,099.4 kg (27.8 percent) of hazardous/infectious waste, and 112.1 kg (0.76 percent) of sharps. Hospital waste makes up approximately 30 percent of all the hazardous waste generated in Kuwait. Segregation of the different types of wastes is practiced in nearly all of the hospitals. All infectious/medical wastes are finally disposed of through incineration.

Practical implications

The paper shows that the hospitals under study do not organize training courses on hospital waste management and the hazards associated with them. There is a need to establish a detailed database regarding the quantity and quality of the waste generated by the various hospitals.

Originality/value

This paper systematically assesses the obstacles in the existing hospital solid waste management system in all governmental hospitals in Kuwait. Subsequently, recommendations and improvements are suggested.

Details

Management of Environmental Quality: An International Journal, vol. 18 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1477-7835

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 17 November 2023

Sameera Zaman, Serat Ahmed Sara, Taranna Tabassum, Tahsin Tabassum, Samiya A. Selim and Haseeb Md. Irfanullah

Considering that knowledge, skills and behavior can influence sustainability efforts, this study aims to assess which personality traits influence one’s sense of feeling connected…

Abstract

Purpose

Considering that knowledge, skills and behavior can influence sustainability efforts, this study aims to assess which personality traits influence one’s sense of feeling connected to nature and presumably make more sustainable choices. The study also explores the situational factors that might pose barriers, despite an individual's preference for a sustainable lifestyle.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 54 faculty members from six Higher Education Institutions in Bangladesh were interviewed based on a semi-structured questionnaire on the barriers to a sustainable lifestyle in Dhaka city, while their personality traits were assessed using the Interpersonal Reactivity Index, the Big Five Factors and the Connectedness to Nature Scale through a survey.

Findings

The results state that Empathic Concern and Fantasy, as dimensions of empathy, have strong positive correlations with feeling connected to nature. The physical, social and psychological challenges also cause fewer people to lead a sustainable lifestyle, despite feeling highly connected to nature.

Research limitations/implications

Sustainability efforts need to be context-specific due to localized challenges the people face. While educators play a key role in mainstreaming sustainability, generalizing the findings of the study to the wider population is limited. Further investigation to explore demographic and socioeconomic factors will provide key insights to the determinants of sustainable behavior.

Practical implications

The findings highlight that educational institutions can play a key role in the development of empathy and sustainability education, while addressing the need for good governance and policies in mainstreaming sustainability for attaining the Sustainable Development Goals Agenda 2030.

Originality/value

Few studies have been conducted to understand sustainable behavior in Bangladesh and identify effective methods to promote sustainability. This study provides insights to sustainable behavior in the context of a least-developed country. Additionally, it will support educational institutions to work toward sustainable development by enabling empathic skills development in curricula, leading to more concrete sustainability efforts.

Details

International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education, vol. 25 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1467-6370

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 23 April 2024

Mahmoud Sabry Shided Keniwe, Ali Hassan Ali, Mostafa Ali Abdelaal, Ahmed Mohamed Yassin, Ahmed Farouk Kineber, Ibrahim Abdel-Rashid Nosier, Ola Diaa El Monayeri and Mohamed Ashraf Elsayad

This study focused on exploring the performance factors (PFs) that impact Infrastructure Sanitation Projects (ISSPs) in the construction sector. The aim was twofold: firstly, to…

24

Abstract

Purpose

This study focused on exploring the performance factors (PFs) that impact Infrastructure Sanitation Projects (ISSPs) in the construction sector. The aim was twofold: firstly, to identify these crucial PFs and secondly, to develop a robust performance model capable of effectively measuring and assessing the intricate interdependencies and correlations within ISSPs. By achieving these objectives, the study aimed to provide valuable insights into and tools for enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of sanitation projects in the construction industry.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve the study's aim, the methodology for identifying the PFs for ISSPs involved several steps: extensive literature review, interviews with Egyptian industry experts, a questionnaire survey targeting industry practitioners and an analysis using the Relative Importance Index (RII), Pareto principle and analytic network process (ANP). The RII ranked factor importance,  and Pareto identified the top 20% for ANP, which determined connections and interdependencies among these factors.

Findings

The literature review identified 36 PFs, and an additional 13 were uncovered during interviews. The highest-ranked PF is PF5, while PF19 is the lowest-ranked. Pareto principle selected 11 PFs, representing the top 20% of factors. The ANP model produced an application for measuring ISSP effectiveness, validated through two case studies. Application results were 92.25% and 91.48%, compared to actual results of 95.77% and 97.37%, indicating its effectiveness and accuracy, respectively.

Originality/value

This study addresses a significant knowledge gap by identifying the critical PFs that influence ISSPs within the construction industry. Subsequently, it constructs a novel performance model, resulting in the development of a practical computer application aimed at measuring and evaluating the performance of these projects.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 1 February 2024

Frank Nana Kweku Otoo and Nissar Ahmed Rather

Highly committed, motivated and engaged employees assure organizational success and competitiveness. The study aims to examine the association between human resource development…

2046

Abstract

Purpose

Highly committed, motivated and engaged employees assure organizational success and competitiveness. The study aims to examine the association between human resource development (HRD) practices and employee engagement with organizational commitment as a mediating variable.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 760 employees of 13 star-rated hotels comprising 5 (five-star) and 8 (four-star). The data supported the hypothesized relationships. Structural equation modeling was used to evaluate the proposed model and hypotheses. Construct validity and reliability were established through confirmatory factor analysis.

Findings

The results indicate that HRD practices and affective commitment are significantly associated. HRD practices and continuance commitment were shown to be non-significantly associated. HRD practices and normative commitment were shown to be non-significantly associated. Employee engagement and organizational commitment are significantly associated. The results further show that organizational commitment mediates the association between HRD practices and employee engagement.

Research limitations/implications

The generalizability of the findings will be constrained due to the research's hotel industry focus and cross sectional data.

Practical implications

The study's findings will serve as valuable pointers for stakeholders and policymakers of the hotel industry in the adoption, design and implementation of proactive HRD interventions to keep highly engaged and committed employees for organizational competitiveness and sustainability.

Originality/value

By evidencing empirically that organizational commitment mediates the nexus between HRD practices and employee engagement, the study extends the literature.

Details

Rajagiri Management Journal, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0972-9968

Keywords

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