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Article
Publication date: 13 July 2023

Haitham Alajmani, Salma Ahmed and Sameh Monir El-Sayegh

This paper aims to measure the severity, frequency and importance of the factors causing delays in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) construction industry following the Covid-19…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to measure the severity, frequency and importance of the factors causing delays in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) construction industry following the Covid-19 pandemic onset. The study also measures the likelihood of the effects caused by these delays.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed approach of both qualitative and quantitative. Literature review was conducted to extract 40 factors of delays and 10 effects of delays. A survey was then administered to construction professionals in the UAE to collect the perceptions on the severity and frequency of factors of the causes of delays using a Likert Scale of 1–5 where 1 represented very low and 5 represented very high. Similarly, the respondents were also asked to rate the likelihood of the occurrence of the effects of the delays based on a Likert scale of 1–5 as well. Furthermore, Spearman’s rank correlation was also conducted to compute the level of agreement between the different parties; owner, consultants and contractors.

Findings

The results revealed that the top five factors of delays include: award the project for the lowest bidder, delay in progress payment, change orders by the owner, poor subcontractor performance and inadequate planning and scheduling by the contractor. The findings of this study emphasize the financial challenges and economic crisis brought upon the construction industry due to the pandemic. Furthermore, the pandemic also shifted the perceptions of construction professionals, who are now more aware of the delays caused by awarding the project to the lowest bidder who would not have the required qualifications to conduct efficient planning and scheduling that are relevant in the case of extraordinary events such as Covid-19. Moreover, a high level of agreement between the consultants and contractors was observed, with a Spearman’s rank correlation of 0.804. Additionally, the most likely effects of delays concluded from this study were time overrun/extension and poor quality of work.

Originality/value

Literature review is very rich in the field of construction projects delays. However, there is very limited research on the impact of Covid-19 in the context of construction projects delays, and insights from construction professionals regarding this matter are particularly lacking in literature. Therefore, this paper bridges the gap in literature by providing perceptions of construction professionals on the impact of Covid-19 on the factors causing delays in the UAE construction industry. The findings of this research are expected to be an invaluable resource for future to help the construction industry heal faster when encountering similar epidemics or extraordinary events.

Details

Journal of Financial Management of Property and Construction , vol. 29 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1366-4387

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 7 June 2022

Quratulain Mohtashim, Fareha Asim and Salma Farooq

The application of synthetic dyestuffs in the dyeing and printing industries has been criticized because of the introduction of contaminants into the environment. With time, the…

Abstract

Purpose

The application of synthetic dyestuffs in the dyeing and printing industries has been criticized because of the introduction of contaminants into the environment. With time, the increasing international awareness of environment and ecology preservation has led to the industry’s attention towards natural dyes and their efficient usage compared to synthetic counterparts. Because the need for “Green” goods and services are rising public awareness, this paper aims to use a banana bio-resource waste to dye cotton fabric.

Design/methodology/approach

Factorial design with three variables, including parts of a banana plant, combination of alkalis and application temperature at three different levels, was studied to identify a significant correlation between the effect of these variables on the colour strength and fastnesses of the dyed cotton fabrics.

Findings

Dyeing samples achieved with various parts of banana are found to offer significant colour strength and a good wash and rub fastness. Experimental design analysis helped to formulate a standard workable dyeing recipe with the minimum use of resources exhibiting reasonably good wash and rub fastness.

Originality/value

This dyeing technique is novel and can be found useful for partially replacing synthetic dyes with natural colourants possessing good washing and rubbing fastness.

Details

Pigment & Resin Technology, vol. 52 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0369-9420

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 14 June 2022

Sheraz Hussain Siddique Hussain Yousfani, Salma Farooq, Quratulain Mohtashim and Hugh Gong

Porosity is one of the most important properties of the textile substrate. It can influence the comfort of a garment by affecting its breathability and thermal conductivity…

Abstract

Purpose

Porosity is one of the most important properties of the textile substrate. It can influence the comfort of a garment by affecting its breathability and thermal conductivity. During the process of dyeing, the dye liquor comes in contact with the substrate; the absorption of the dye liquor into the substrate will be dependent on its porosity. The concept of porosity between the yarns of fabric is a common phenomenon; however, the porosity between the fibres in the yarn can also influence the dyeing behaviour of the fabric.

Design/methodology/approach

In this research, ring and rotor yarns of 25/s and 30/s counts are considered as textile substrates. The porosity of yarns was determined theoretically and experimentally using the image analysis method.

Findings

It was found that theoretical porosity is independent of the yarn manufacturing method. In addition, 30/s yarn was more porous as compared with 25/s yarn having a higher pore area. Rotor yarns had higher porosity, dye fixation and K/S as compared with ring yarns. Dyeing behaviour was also dependent on the count of yarn. Specifically, 30/s yarns have higher dye fixation as compared with 25/s yarns. However, 25/s yarns were dyed with deeper shades showing higher K/S values. Also, 25/s yarns are coarser than 30/s yarns having higher diameters and cross-sectional area, thus resulting in deeper shades and higher K/S values.

Originality/value

This novel technique is based on the comparative study of the porosity of various types of yarns using the image analysis technique. This investigation shows that the porosity between the fibres in the yarn can also influence the dyeing behaviour of the yarn.

Details

Pigment & Resin Technology, vol. 52 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0369-9420

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 15 November 2022

Ahmed Mohammad Al-smadi, Salam Bani Hani, Abedalmajeed Shajrawi, Ala Ashour, Marwa Halabi, Areej Mousa and Mustafa Mohammad Al Smadi

The purpose of this paper is to assess nurse’s knowledge and practice regarding basic life support (BLS) skills while working with SARS-CoV-2 patients in Jordanian hospitals.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess nurse’s knowledge and practice regarding basic life support (BLS) skills while working with SARS-CoV-2 patients in Jordanian hospitals.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 386 nurses with direct contact with SARS-CoV-2 patients at Jordanian hospitals. A self-administered structured questionnaire was used based on the American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines.

Findings

A total of 386 participants were recruited. The mean years of experience were 7.89 (SD = 5.97). About three quarters of participants revealed they deal with SARS-CoV-2 patients directly (n = 284, 73.6%). The total mean score of nurse’s knowledge was 4.44 (SD = 1.22), while the total mean score of practice was 8.44 (SD = 2.05). Independent t-test was used, which revealed a statistically significant difference between educational level and total score of nurse’s knowledge [t(386) = 0.215 and p = 0.001] and between training to deal with SARS-CoV-2 during BLS and total score of practice [t(386) = 2.66 and p = 0.008]. Pearson correlation discloses a positive correlation between the total score of knowledge and practice (r = 0.343 and p = 0.001).

Research limitations/implications

In general, nurses revealed a moderate level of knowledge and practice of BLS skills. However, assessing nurse’s knowledge and practice during the outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 plays a key role in identifying the gap in nurse’s knowledge and practice, and therefore, it will have an impact on providing high-quality BLS to save infected patients while providing maximum safety according to AHA guidelines.

Originality/value

This study is the first study that examined the level of knowledge and practice of BLS skills during SARS-CoV-2 pandemic in Jordan.

Details

Working with Older People, vol. 27 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1366-3666

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 6 March 2024

Ahmed EL Hana, Ahmed Hader, Jaouad Ait Lahcen, Salma Moushi, Yassine Hariti, Iliass Tarras, Rachid Et Touizi and Yahia Boughaleb

The purpose of the paper is to conduct a numerical and experimental investigation into the properties of nanofluids containing spherical nanoparticles of random sizes flowing…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to conduct a numerical and experimental investigation into the properties of nanofluids containing spherical nanoparticles of random sizes flowing through a porous medium. The study aims to understand how the thermophysical properties of the nanofluid are affected by factors such as nanoparticle volume fraction, permeability of the porous medium, and pore size. The paper provides insights into the behavior of nanofluids in complex environments and explores the impact of varying conditions on key properties such as thermal conductivity, density, viscosity, and specific heat. Ultimately, the research contributes to the broader understanding of nanofluid dynamics and has potential implications for engineering and industrial applications in porous media.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper investigates nanofluids with spherical nanoparticles in a porous medium, exploring thermal conductivity, density, specific heat, and dynamic viscosity. Studying three compositions, the analysis employs the classical Maxwell model and Koo and Kleinstreuer’s approach for thermal conductivity, considering particle shape and temperature effects. Density and specific heat are defined based on mass and volume ratios. Dynamic viscosity models, including Brinkman’s and Gherasim et al.'s, are discussed. Numerical simulations, implemented in Python using the Langevin model, yield results processed in Origin Pro. This research enhances understanding of nanofluid behavior, contributing valuable insights to porous media applications.

Findings

This study involves a numerical examination of nanofluid properties, featuring spherical nanoparticles of varying sizes suspended in a base fluid with known density, flowing through a porous medium. Experimental findings reveal a notable increase in thermal conductivity, density, and viscosity as the volume fraction of particles rises. Conversely, specific heat experiences a decrease with higher particle volume concentration.xD; xA; The influence of permeability and pore size on particle volume fraction variation is a key focus. Interestingly, while the permeability of the medium has a significant effect, it is observed that it increases with permeability. This underscores the role of the medium’s nature in altering the thermophysical properties of nanofluids.

Originality/value

This paper presents a novel numerical study on nanofluids with randomly sized spherical nanoparticles flowing in a porous medium. It explores the impact of porous medium properties on nanofluid thermophysical characteristics, emphasizing the significance of permeability and pore size. The inclusion of random nanoparticle sizes adds practical relevance. Contrasting trends are observed, where thermal conductivity, density, and viscosity increase with particle volume fraction, while specific heat decreases. These findings offer valuable insights for engineering applications, providing a deeper understanding of nanofluid behavior in porous environments and guiding the design of efficient systems in various industrial contexts.

Details

Multidiscipline Modeling in Materials and Structures, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1573-6105

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 18 December 2023

Ibrahim S. Abotaleb, Yasmin Elhakim, Mohamed El Rifaee, Sahar Bader, Osama Hosny, Ahmed Abodonya, Salma Ibrahim, Mohamed Sherif, Abdelrahman Sorour and Mennatallah Soliman

The objective of this research is to propose an immersive framework that integrates virtual reality (VR) technology with directives international safety training certification…

Abstract

Purpose

The objective of this research is to propose an immersive framework that integrates virtual reality (VR) technology with directives international safety training certification bodies to enhance construction safety training, which eventually leads to safer construction sites.

Design/methodology/approach

The adopted methodology combines expert insights and experimentation to maximize the effectiveness of construction safety training. The first step was identifying key considerations for VR models such as motion sickness prevention and adult learning theories. The second step was developing a game-like VR model for safety training, with multiple hazards and scenarios based on the considerations of the previous step. After that, safety experts evaluated the model and provided valuable feedback on its alignment with international safety training practices. Finally, the developed model is tested by senior students, where the testing format followed the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) working safely exam structure.

Findings

An advanced immersive VR safety training model was developed based on extensive lessons learned from the literature, previous work and psychology-informed adult learning theories. Model testing – through focus groups and hands-on experimentation – demonstrated significant benefit of VR in upgrading and complementing traditional training methods.

Originality/value

The findings presented in this paper make a significant contribution to the field of safety training within the construction industry and the broader context of immersive learning experiences. It also fosters further exploration into immersive learning experiences across educational and professional contexts.

Details

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

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 13 March 2024

Salma Chakroun and Anis Ben Amar

This paper aims to examine the influence of the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) adoption on corporate tax avoidance (CTA). In addition, this study aims to…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the influence of the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) adoption on corporate tax avoidance (CTA). In addition, this study aims to explore whether family ownership moderates the impact of IFRS adoption on CTA.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used a sample of 1,856 firms from various countries around the world, covering the period between 2010 and 2022. To estimate the proposed econometric models, the authors applied both fixed and random effects regression methods.

Findings

The present findings show that IFRS adoption has a negative impact on CTA, as measured by the effective tax rate and book-tax differences. This negative impact is more pronounced in “common law” countries than in “civil law countries.” Additionally, the authors found that family ownership plays a moderating role by positively affecting the impact of IFRS adoption on CTA.

Practical implications

The findings have practical, regulatory and academic implications for fostering accountability and fairness in taxation. This study suggests that implementing IFRS reduces tax avoidance and emphasizes the need for firms to evaluate the implications of IFRS adoption on their tax-planning strategies. It highlights the importance of aligning financial reporting practices with international standards to enhance transparency and minimize tax avoidance opportunities. The differential impact of IFRS adoption between “common law” and “civil law” countries underscores the role of legal and regulatory frameworks. In addition, family ownership plays a significant role in shaping tax-planning strategies. From an academic perspective, this research provides a foundation for further exploration into the relationship between IFRS adoption and tax avoidance.

Originality/value

The existing literature has predominantly concentrated on examining the effect of IFRS adoption on CTA, and the empirical findings have been inconsistent. This study introduces a novel perspective by considering the moderating influence of family ownership in determining the impact of IFRS adoption on CTA.

Details

International Journal of Law and Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1754-243X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 2 May 2023

Taylan Budur, Halil Demirer and Chnar Abdullah Rashid

Current article aims to investigate the positive link between knowledge sharing (KS), innovative culture (IC), quality of work life (QWL) and innovative behaviours (IB) at higher…

Abstract

Purpose

Current article aims to investigate the positive link between knowledge sharing (KS), innovative culture (IC), quality of work life (QWL) and innovative behaviours (IB) at higher education institutions in Iraq's Kurdistan Region.

Design/methodology/approach

The study's data was gathered from academic staff at various universities in Iraq's Kurdistan Region. A total of 212 data were collected via survey questionnaire and analysed using structural equation modelling.

Findings

It was discovered that KS has direct and significant positive effects on IC, QWL and IB; IC had direct positive effects on IB; QWL had no considerable influence on IB and IC had a significant mediation and moderation roles between KS and IB. As a result, it is advised that universities in the region are strongly support IC to increase IB among academicians.

Research limitations/implications

Firstly, the data has been collected during the crises time that the lecturers were not receiving regular salary. This might change their quality work life perception. Secondly, data has been collected only from Sulaymaniyah city; other parts of the Iraq could have different perceptions. Lastly, sample size might be another limitation of the study.

Practical implications

It is recommended that universities in the region should strongly support IC to increase IB among academicians, in terms of providing flexible working schedule and conditions, fair opportunities for promotion, and share decision making responsibilities.

Social implications

KS and IC has significant impacts on IB among the academicians. Accordingly, university administrative should improve policies increase KS behaviours and provide IC that academicians feel more comfortable culture to be innovative. Therefore, current paper recommends, tolerance to failure, openness to new ideas and participation to the decisions to improve IB among the academicians.

Originality/value

The paper is important that investigate KS and IC at the higher education institutions in Kurdistan region. Further, QWL perception has been investigated respectively. However, it has been observed that lecturers do not have quality of life perception at the investigated period of time.

Details

Journal of Applied Research in Higher Education, vol. 16 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2050-7003

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 February 2022

Salma Zaman, Ussama Yaqub and Tauqeer Saleem

The purpose of this paper is to explore the effect of Elon Musk’s Twitter bio change on January 29, 2021 on the discourse around Bitcoin (BTC) on Twitter and to understand how…

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the effect of Elon Musk’s Twitter bio change on January 29, 2021 on the discourse around Bitcoin (BTC) on Twitter and to understand how these changes relate to the changes in Bitcoin price around that time.

Design/methodology/approach

This study implements sentiment analysis and text mining on Twitter data to explore changes in public sentiments toward Bitcoin after Elon Musk’s Twitter bio change. Furthermore, it uses Bitcoin price data obtained from the Binance exchange to understand its relation with Twitter discussion.

Findings

Elon Musk’s bio change on Twitter on January 29 increased the tweet volume mentioning Bitcoin. This increase in tweets had a strong positive correlation with Bitcoin price and preceded the rise in Bitcoin price. Although the bio change had an apparent effect on the tweet volume, there was no considerable effect on the tweet sentiments, indicating that tweet sentiment is a poor predictor of Bitcoin price.

Originality/value

This paper proposes an understanding of how social media influencers, like Elon Musk, affect the discourse around Bitcoin and can, in turn, have an impact on Bitcoin price.

Details

Global Knowledge, Memory and Communication, vol. 72 no. 4/5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2514-9342

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 31 January 2022

Nazamul Hoque

This study aims to look into the scope of exploring and promoting business zakah for the enhancement of the well-being of the underprivileged in society.

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to look into the scope of exploring and promoting business zakah for the enhancement of the well-being of the underprivileged in society.

Design/methodology/approach

This is mainly a qualitative research conducted using both primary and secondary data. Primary data have been collected from 34 business entrepreneurs in Bangladesh through semi-structured in-depth interviews. The secondary data have been collected from annual reports with a view to calculating business zakah of five business enterprises for providing an indicative picture of prospective volume of business zakah in Bangladesh. Finally, collected qualitative data have been analyzed thematically following the due procedures with a view to addressing the research questions.

Findings

The findings reveal that around thirty five percent of sample entrepreneurs have used business zakah fund for fully and partially financing their social projects. It also reveals that on average annual business zakah fund amounts to nearly 144m BDT (around US$1.7m) per business enterprise. These findings bear clear witness that business zakah has extensive scope and promising prospect to be an instrument of financing social projects aimed at ensuring social well-being of the disadvantaged.

Practical implications

The findings of this research can be used as a guide to promote business zakah to finance social programs aimed at ensuring the well-being of the underprivileged of all societies particularly of Muslim countries representing one-fourth of the world population.

Originality/value

Exploring and promoting business zakah as an initiative of broadening the base of zakah is an innovative move and net addition to the literature of Islamic finance. It contributes greatly to the poverty alleviation movement in the sense that Muslim business entrepreneurs will now find their business zakah fund readily available to finance their social projects aimed at ensuring well-being of the impoverished.

Details

Journal of Islamic Marketing, vol. 14 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1759-0833

Keywords

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