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Article
Publication date: 20 October 2023

Mohamed Ibrahim Al Ali, Osama Khassawneh, Washika Haak-Saheem, Jing Zeng and Tamer K. Darwish

The purpose of this study is to investigate the factors that influence the development of human capital by examining the interplay between different organizational mechanisms…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the factors that influence the development of human capital by examining the interplay between different organizational mechanisms, including leadership, organizational culture and human resources management (HRM) practices. This study aims to enhance our understanding of how knowledge exchange influences human capital, with a specific focus on the unique context of Dubai, an area and context that have been underexplored in this research domain.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a survey-based approach, involving 611 participants working across different sectors based in Dubai. This study used partial least squares structural equation modeling as the statistical analysis method.

Findings

The results of the study indicate that leadership behaviors have a predictive influence on organizational culture. In turn, organizational culture significantly affects knowledge exchange. Additionally, the study reveals that commitment-based HRM practices play a significant moderating role in the relationship between organizational culture and knowledge exchange.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the existing literature by providing valuable insights into the interplay between leadership, organizational culture and commitment-based HRM practices. By exploring these factors and their influence on knowledge exchange and human capital, the study enhances both the theoretical understanding and practical application in this field.

Details

Global Knowledge, Memory and Communication, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2514-9342

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 26 July 2023

Hamdy Mohamed Mohamed and Wael Sabry Mohamed

The study aims to assess the efficiency of nanocomposite to improve the properties of gap-filling materials for pottery artifacts.

Abstract

Purpose

The study aims to assess the efficiency of nanocomposite to improve the properties of gap-filling materials for pottery artifacts.

Design/methodology/approach

Five different pastes were used in the laboratory studies. The pastes consist mainly of pottery powder (grog), dental plaster, microballoons and an adhesive of Primal AC33, nano-silica and nano kaolinite in various concentrations. The prepared samples were subjected to accelerated heat and light aging. Besides, some investigations were used to evaluate the efficacy of the additive nanomaterials, such as TEM, digital and scanning electron microscopy microscopes. Contact angle, color change, shrinkage degree, physical properties and compressive strength tests were also conducted.

Findings

The results indicated that using Nano-silica considerably improves the mechanical strength and decreases the shrinkage of gap-filling materials. According to the results, a mixture of grog, microballoons and Primal AC33/Nano-silica Nanocomposites is the optimal gap-filling paste for archaeological pottery. Moreover, this paste showed a higher contact angle (120°), lower color change (ΔE = 2.62), lower shrinkage (3.3%), lower water absorption (3.36%), lower porosity (5.05%) and higher compressive strength (5124 N/mm2).

Originality/value

This paper attains to develop an economic polymer-nanocomposite that can be used with gap-filling materials for pottery artifacts.

Details

Pigment & Resin Technology, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0369-9420

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 20 October 2023

Mohamed M. Elsotouhy, Mohamed A. Ghonim, Nada Khalifa and Mohamed A. Khashan

Despite the importance of emotional variables in shaping individuals' consumption behavior, nature-love still needs to be addressed concerning various aspects of sustainable…

Abstract

Purpose

Despite the importance of emotional variables in shaping individuals' consumption behavior, nature-love still needs to be addressed concerning various aspects of sustainable consumption behavior (SCB). Considering the dimensions of nature-love, this study aims to investigate the effect of passion-for-nature, intimacy-with-nature and commitment-to-nature on SCB. Furthermore, this study aims to incorporate the construal levels of psychological distance (PD) as a moderating variable between the tested variables to add a more in-depth understanding.

Design/methodology/approach

Data was collected from a sample of 311 individuals from Egypt using the snowball sampling method and the ten-time rule technique. The data was analyzed using partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM).

Findings

The findings indicate that passion-for-nature and intimacy-with-nature have a significant positive effect on green purchasing, reusability and recycling. On the other hand, commitment-to-nature has a significant positive effect on both green purchasing and reusability. Additionally, a high PD acts as a moderator between the relationships tested. The findings have been discussed in terms of their theoretical and practical implications.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to integrate PD as a moderator between the relationships tested. Additionally, this paper is the first empirical research investigating these relationships in developing economies.

Details

EuroMed Journal of Business, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1450-2194

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 27 June 2020

Nevine Samir Mohamed Ibrahim Abou Donia

This paper aims to provide an evaluation of the new education system, based on Life Skills and Citizenship Education (LSCE), in Egyptian primary schools. This study analyzes how…

1104

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to provide an evaluation of the new education system, based on Life Skills and Citizenship Education (LSCE), in Egyptian primary schools. This study analyzes how effective could be the implementation of LSCE in the process of constructing active democratic citizens, in particular, in the case of Egypt, highlighting problems facing the new education approach.

Design/methodology/approach

The study methodologies are twofold; the content analysis of the primary one new curriculum “Discover”, to assess the curriculum's strengths and weakness; and the questionnaire to the primary six students, to investigate the relationship among the twelve life skills.

Findings

Content analysis of the textbook shows that the learning process based on LSCE is appropriate for the construction of active citizens. The textbook provides Egyptian children with the necessary opportunities to learn and create, through creative participatory methods. The relationship between the social dimension and other dimensions has been proven by means of the chi-square test. The relationship between participation and the two approximately absent skills “resilience and empathy” has been clarified as both are strongly interrelated with participation. The results illuminate a strong relationship between participation and the remaining life skills.

Research limitations/implications

More questionnaires are needed to assess the grade of life skills achievement among students in grade one and two, as it is regarded one of the limitations of the present study, owing to the complicated procedures and the limited time.

Practical implications

The research suggests the formulation of wider project-based activities to be included in the textbooks of all the primary grades. In this regard, real contribution with NGOs and local governments shall be developed to facilitate the involvement of children in actual projects, in accordance with their ages, and to encourage students to participate, as they notice the efficient results of their contribution.

Social implications

The research stresses on the importance of enhancing participation, as it is proven through the chi-square test that it is strongly related to other skills.

Originality/value

The scarcity of analytical studies to evaluate the effectiveness of citizenship education programs on children, after the application of the new Egyptian education system.

Details

Review of Economics and Political Science, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2356-9980

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 25 March 2024

Mostafa Abdel-Hamied, Ahmed A.M. Abdelhafez and Gomaa Abdel-Maksoud

This study aims to focus on the main materials used in consolidation processes of illuminated paper manuscripts and leather binding.

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to focus on the main materials used in consolidation processes of illuminated paper manuscripts and leather binding.

Design/methodology/approach

For each material, chemical structure, chemical composition, molecular formula, solubility, advantages, disadvantages and its role in treatment process are presented.

Findings

This study concluded that carboxy methyl cellulose, hydroxy propyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, cellulose acetate, nanocrystalline cellulose, funori, sturgeon glue, poly vinyl alcohol, chitosan, chitosan nanoparticles (NPs), gelatin, aquazol, paraloid B72 and hydroxyapatite NPs were the most common and important materials used for the consolidation of illuminated paper manuscripts. For the leather bindings, hydroxy propyl cellulose, polyethylene glycol, oligomeric melamine-formaldehyde resin, acrylic wax SC6000, pliantex, paraloid B67 and B72, silicone oil and collagen NPs are the most consolidants used.

Originality/value

Illuminated paper manuscripts with leather binding are considered one of the most important objects in libraries, museums and storehouses. The uncontrolled conditions and other deterioration factors inside the libraries and storehouses lead to degradation of these artifacts. The brittleness, fragility and weakness are considered the most common deterioration aspects of illuminated paper manuscripts and leather binding. Therefore, the consolidation process became vital and important to solve this problem. This study presents the main materials used for consolidation process of illuminated paper manuscripts and leather bindings.

Details

Pigment & Resin Technology, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0369-9420

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 30 March 2023

Heba Nassar, Marwa Biltagy and Aya Mohamed Safwat

Egypt has set plans to transform into a green economy which requires major reforms in the waste sector as one of the most vital sectors crucial for this transformation. This study…

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Abstract

Purpose

Egypt has set plans to transform into a green economy which requires major reforms in the waste sector as one of the most vital sectors crucial for this transformation. This study aims at inspecting the current status of the Egyptian waste sector to highlight the major policy reforms needed. Furthermore, it assesses the economic viability of establishing waste-to-energy (WtE) projects under the current regulations that govern the sector.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employed an inductive analytical approach to scrutinize the institutional and regulatory framework of the waste and WtE sectors. Furthermore, a novel techno-economic analysis was conducted to assess the profitability of a WtE plant that employs moving grate incineration technology.

Findings

The analysis of the waste sector revealed its deteriorating state and the dire need for immediate restructuring through more stringent regulations to establish an integrated waste management system (IWMS) that incorporates WtE technologies as well as a number of corrective actions that would help enhance the sector. Additionally, the techno-economic analysis revealed the need to amend the current WtE regulation to comprise a gate fee as an indispensable revenue stream for WtE projects.

Originality/value

This study is one of a few studies that uses a new technique of analysis to explore the potential role that WtE projects can play in Egypt as a part of an IWMS that aims at transforming the waste sector into a resource sector while providing a renewable and sustainable source of energy.

Details

Review of Economics and Political Science, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2356-9980

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 7 November 2023

Rania Abdel Gwad Eloriby and Hamdy Mohamed Mohamed

This study aims to assess the efficacy of nano-alumina (nano-Al2O3) in improving the performance of epoxy adhesives used to assemble archaeological glass. The conservators face a…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to assess the efficacy of nano-alumina (nano-Al2O3) in improving the performance of epoxy adhesives used to assemble archaeological glass. The conservators face a significant problem in assembling this type of artifact. Therefore, the assembling process is considered one of the important stages that must be taken care of to preserve these artifacts from damage and loss.

Design/methodology/approach

To evaluate the stability of adhesives, the samples were subjected to artificial aging under varying environmental conditions. Some investigative techniques and mechanical testing were used in this study to evaluate the selected materials. It includes a transmission electron microscope, X-ray diffraction, visual assessment, digital microscope, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), color change and tensile strength test.

Findings

The visual evaluation and the digital microscope results showed that the epoxy/nano-Al2O3 greatly resisted artificial aging. Although slight yellowing was present, it did not significantly affect the general appearance of the samples. On the other hand, the pure epoxy sample showed cracks of different sizes on its surface due to aging, as evidenced by SEM examination. Furthermore, epoxy/nano-Al2O3 has a better tensile strength (11.27 MPa) and slight color change (ΔE = 2.06).

Originality/value

The main objective of the experimental study was to identify appropriate adhesive materials that possess key properties such as non-yellowing and improved tensile strength by conducting various tests and evaluations. Ultimately, the goal was to identify materials that could serve as effective adhesives for assembling the archaeological glass.

Details

Pigment & Resin Technology, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0369-9420

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 5 December 2023

Saleh Aly Saleh Aly, Ahmed Diab and Samir Ibrahim Abdelazim

This study aims to investigate the impact of audit fees on audit quality, the impact of audit quality on firm value and whether these effects are conditional on audit tenure by…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the impact of audit fees on audit quality, the impact of audit quality on firm value and whether these effects are conditional on audit tenure by bringing evidence from an emerging market.

Design/methodology/approach

Different regression techniques are used, such as logistic regression, probit regression, ordinary least squares regression and fixed effects regression. The authors used panel data of 80 nonfinancial Egyptian-listed firms over 2016–2020.

Findings

The authors found a significant positive relationship between audit fees and audit quality and a significant positive relationship between audit quality and firm value. Furthermore, the authors found that the positive relationship between audit fees and audit quality is less pronounced for higher audit tenure firms. Finally, the authors also found that the positive relationship between audit quality and firm value is stronger for lower audit tenure firms.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to bring evidence from an emerging African market about the joint association between audit tenure, audit fees, audit quality and firm value. It provides beneficial insights to regulators regarding the possibility and the benefits of improving audit quality, which is critically needed in contexts with weak governance systems.

Details

Journal of Financial Reporting and Accounting, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1985-2517

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 13 May 2024

Rania Abdel Gwad Eloriby, Wael Sabry Mohamed and Hamdy Mohamed Mohamed

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of nanocontainer solutions in removing deteriorated and aged polymers commonly used in coating and consolidating…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of nanocontainer solutions in removing deteriorated and aged polymers commonly used in coating and consolidating archaeological glass.

Design/methodology/approach

This study focused on characterizing glass surfaces coated with two commonly used polymeric materials in archaeological glass preservation. Furthermore, the study evaluates the elimination of these coatings from the surfaces by using innovative aqueous systems composed of micellar solutions (MS) and oil-in-water (O/W) Texapon-P microemulsions (TEX). Glass samples coated with selected polymers were subjected to thermal and photochemical aging to simulate natural degradation conditions. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of nanocontainer aqueous systems compared to acetone (Ac), a conventional solvent commonly used for removal procedures. The characterization procedures involved transmission electron microscopy, USB digital microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, color alteration and gravimetric measurement.

Findings

The findings indicate that the effectiveness of novel techniques using aqueous nanocontainer systems is quite promising when considering a “green approach” to preserving cultural heritage. Microscopic examination demonstrated the efficacy of MS in effectively removing acrylic and vinyl polymers from the glass surface. Furthermore, TEX proved effective in removing polyvinyl acetate (PVA) over Paraloid B72 (B-72). In addition, the measurement of color alteration values revealed a decrease after using MS compared to the standard sample before applying the polymers, with values of ΔE = 1.48 and 1.82 for B-72 polymer and PVA, respectively.

Originality/value

This research provides nanocontainer solutions for removing aged polymers from the glass surface. This makes the current study a promising step for treating archaeological glass.

Details

Pigment & Resin Technology, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0369-9420

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 12 September 2024

Sylvia Novillo-Villegas, Wendy Anzules-Falcones and Juan Ignacio Martin-Castilla

This study aims to explore the relationship between the innovation capacity and performance of manufacturing firms in the Ecuadorian pharmaceutical and chemical sectors using…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to explore the relationship between the innovation capacity and performance of manufacturing firms in the Ecuadorian pharmaceutical and chemical sectors using strategic foresight analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

From an extensive literature review, the fundamental variables related to manufacturing firms’ innovation for better performance were identified. Six hypotheses and actions were proposed related to financing, economic resources, capacities and research and development. Several scenarios were tested through foresight methodology to determine the more appropriate to be implemented by manufacturing firms over the next five years.

Findings

Scenario 01, where all the hypotheses resulted positive, has a 15.3% probability of occurrence. The results offer a relevant understanding of the behavior of the variables proposed as strategic actions for the sector.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, foresight methodology is applied for the first time to analyze the manufacturing sector in Ecuador. The authors propose a plan of action from the strategic scenario identified in this study, supporting the development of the industrial sectors under study.

Details

foresight, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1463-6689

Keywords

1 – 10 of 191