Nancy Sobh, Nagla Elshemy, Sahar Nassar and Mona Ali
Due to herbs and plants’ therapeutic properties and simplicity of availability in nature, humans have used them to treat a variety of maladies and diseases since ancient times…
Abstract
Purpose
Due to herbs and plants’ therapeutic properties and simplicity of availability in nature, humans have used them to treat a variety of maladies and diseases since ancient times. Later, as technology advanced, these plants and herbs gained significant relevance in some industries due to their suitable chemical composition, abundant availability and ease of access. Aegle marmelos is a species of plant that may be found in nature. Yet, little or very little literature was located on the coloration behavior of this plant’s leaves. This study aims to focus on the effect of different parameters on the extraction of colorant from Aegle marmelos leaves.
Design/methodology/approach
Some factors that affected on the extraction processes were examined and found to have significant impacts on the textile dyeing such as the initial dye concentration, extracted temperature, extracted bath pH and extracted time were all changed to see how they affected color extraction. The authors report a direct comparison between three heating methods, namely, microwave irradiation (MWI), ultrasonic waves (USW) and conventional heating (CH). The two kinetic models have been designed (pseudo-first and pseudo-second orders) in the context of these experiments to investigate the mechanism of the dyeing processes for fabrics under study. Also, the experimental data were analyzed according to the Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms.
Findings
From the result, it was discovered these characteristics were found to have a substantial effect on extraction efficiency. Temperature 90°C and 80°C when using CH and USW, respectively, while at 90% watt when using MWI, period 120 min when using CH as well as USW waves, while 40 min when using MWI, and pH 4, 5 and 10 for polyamide, wool and cotton, respectively, were the optimal extraction conditions. Also, the authors can say that wool gives a higher absorption than the other fabric. Additionally, MWI provided the best color strength (K/S) value, and homogeneity, at low temperatures reducing the energy and time consumed. The coloring follows the order: MWI > USW > CH. The adsorption isotherm of wool could be well fitted by Freundlich isotherm when applying CH and USW as a heating source, while it is well fitted by the Langmuir equation in the case of MWI. In the study, it was observed that the pseudo-first-order kinetic model fits better the experimental results of CH with a constant rate K1 = −0.000171417 mg/g.min, while the pseudo-second-order kinetic model fits better the experimental results of absorption of both MWI (K2 = 38.14022572 mg/g.min) and USW (K2 = 12.45343554 mg/g.min).
Research limitations/implications
There is no research limitation for this work. Dye was extracted from Aegle marmelos leaves by applying three different heating sources (MWI, ultrasonic waves [USWW] and CH).
Practical implications
This work has practical applications for the textile industry. It is concluded that using Aegle marmelose leaves can be a possible alternative to extract dye from natural resource by applying new technology to save energy and time and can make the process greener.
Social implications
Socially, it has a good impact on the ecosystem and global community because the extracted dye does not contain any carcinogenic materials.
Originality/value
The work is original and contains value-added products for the textile industry and other confederate fields.
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Mohammed Soliman Aly Khedr, Mona Foad Ali, Ahmed Nabil Emam, Abdullah Mahmoud Kamel and Manal Abdel-Monem Ghanam
This study aims to provide an efficient nanocomposite that might be used to protect deteriorated archaeological stucco.
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to provide an efficient nanocomposite that might be used to protect deteriorated archaeological stucco.
Design/methodology/approach
The current experimental study evaluates the effectiveness of the hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (HA NPs) added to graphite carbon nitride (g-C3N4) and mixed with Paraloid (B-72) (B-44) in acetone in consolidating samples. The physicochemical properties of the as-prepared nanopowders have been investigated using Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR). This study involves monitoring the transmission electron microscope (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform changes in consolidated samples after exposure to various conditions by using the digital microscope and scanning electron microscopy to identify the appearance of the consolidated stucco samples after applying the selected nanocomposites and after their artificial aging procedures. Color change is measured using a colorimeter, and comparisons are made between samples before and after aging. Physical and mechanical properties are determined, and the contact angle is measured to measure hydrophobicity rate.
Findings
The obtained results indicate that HA/g-C3N4 hybrid nanocomposites with a composition of HA 0.5%/g-C3N4 1%/B-72 3% and HA 0.5%/g-C3N4 1%/B-44 3% achieved the best consolidating results among the proposed mixtures for stucco samples, where the percentage of weight loss was 0.77 with B-72, 0.53 with B-44. Surface identification and characterization of hydroxyapatite HA NPs/g-C3N4 hybrid nanocomposites embedded in B72/B44matrix were carried out using Scanning Electron Microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (SEM–EDX).
Originality/value
This study provides important findings from the analytical procedures used to evaluate the consolidation materials used in this study. The findings are beneficial for the preservation of archaeological stucco. The investigation findings revealed that the most favorable outcomes were obtained from HA/g-C3N4 hybrid nanocomposites containing HA 0.5%, g-C3N4 1% and B-72 3%, as well as HA 0.5%, g-C3N4 1% and B-44 3%. Consequently, it is advised to use this nanocomposite to consolidate archaeological stucco, thus establishing a promising initial stride toward conserving archaeological stucco for future research endeavors. This study introduces a new nanocomposite material (HA NPs/G-C3N4) that can be used to protect and improve archaeological plaster. This is very important for preserving cultural heritage. The incorporation of nanotechnology improves the material’s physical and mechanical qualities. The research uses various characterization techniques (including TEM, XRD and FT-IR) to meticulously analyze the physicochemical properties of the nanocomposite material and assess its efficacy in practical applications through artificial aging experiments, offering novel insights and methodologies for future cultural relic preservation studies.
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Mona Mohammadpour, Ahmadreza Afrasiabi and Morteza Yazdani
In today’s age of globalization, every industry puts well-determined efforts toward surviving in the market. Industries are well aware of the fact that offering quality products…
Abstract
Purpose
In today’s age of globalization, every industry puts well-determined efforts toward surviving in the market. Industries are well aware of the fact that offering quality products and improving customer satisfaction is the strategic decision toward successful outcomes. During the recent years, food companies have undergone remarkable growth and development worldwide. In the Middle East, with a wide variety of demand and range of cultures, Iran is leading the food industries and possessed a top position of paramount importance. The present research aims to identify and prioritize barriers to implementing total quality management (TQM) in the Solico Food and Beverage Production Group (SFBPG) as a case study.
Design/methodology/approach
Firstly, an initial list of barriers is prepared based on a literature review. The identified barriers are then classified into four groups namely behavioral, technical-structural, human and cultural and strategic barriers based on the viewpoint of an expert team at a well-known food company. Secondly, the barriers are prioritized by adopting a special approach to multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) called the Group Best-Worst Method (GBWM).
Findings
The obtained results reveal that the most substantial barriers prohibiting the successful implementation of TQM are lack of top management commitment and participation (0.334), high organizational burnout rate (0.128), instability and frequent changes of senior managers (0.123).
Originality/value
In general, this research has ranked the barriers from the most important one to the least significant instance. Additionally, this can enable managers and practitioners in the food industry to make worthy decisions and suggest multiple solutions to cope with obstacles to the successful implementation of TQM.
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Arash Khalili Nasr, Mona Rashidirad, Hamze Asgari Hatamabadi, Mobin Ghasempour Nejati and Nick Hajli
This paper investigates the impact of various leadership styles on the professionalization and subsequent performance of family businesses.
Abstract
Purpose
This paper investigates the impact of various leadership styles on the professionalization and subsequent performance of family businesses.
Design/methodology/approach
Using a survey method and employing a partial least squares approach to structural equation modeling, we tested our model and analyzed the collected data based on the responses of 216 managers in Iran.
Findings
Our research demonstrates that professionalization mediates the relationship between leadership style and performance. Moreover, our findings show that the participative leadership style is the most effective option for family businesses seeking to achieve professionalization and improve performance.
Research limitations/implications
First, the sample used in this study was drawn from a single country, namely Iran. Second, although we adhered to established practices for measuring financial performance, future research could explore alternative dimensions of performance, including non-financial goals. Third, we did not investigate the impact of different leadership styles on each dimension of professionalization.
Practical implications
These findings provide valuable insights for family business managers seeking to adopt a suitable leadership style to achieve professional management and realize favorable outcomes.
Originality/value
Our study suggests that examining the potential impact of leadership styles on professionalization can provide clarity amidst mixed findings regarding the influence of professionalization on firm performance. Additionally, we challenge the oversimplified categorization of professionalization and argue for a multifaceted view, contending that professionalization comprises various dimensions acting concurrently and potentially mediates the effect of leadership styles on family business performance.
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Esraa Essam, Mohamed Kamal Abdien, Mona Omar Barakat and Mostafa Abdelaziz Elsaqqa
This study is based on the extended theory of planned behavior (TPB) and attempts to shed light on what influences restaurant consumers’ intentions to eat locally sourced meals.
Abstract
Purpose
This study is based on the extended theory of planned behavior (TPB) and attempts to shed light on what influences restaurant consumers’ intentions to eat locally sourced meals.
Design/methodology/approach
Data from 698 respondents were gathered through a web-based survey employing a quantitative methodology.
Findings
The findings indicated that several motivating factors, subjective norms and perceived behavioral control positively influence respondents’ attitudes toward dining at restaurants serving meals that are obtained locally. Also, attitudes significantly predicted intentions and mediated the relationship between the motivating factors and intention to consume local meals. Furthermore, subjective norms and perceived behavioral control moderated the relationship between attitude and intention.
Research limitations/implications
The study offers implications for both theory and practice. In the context of Egypt in particular, this study advocates for sustainable food production and consumption in restaurants. The study focused only on consumers; it suggests that subsequent research should examine the restaurant operators’ perspective.
Practical implications
To draw in and please more locavores, restaurant management can use buzzwords like “safe food,” “fresh food” and “environmental labels.” They should also provide their consumers with the backstory of menu items, including where food comes from, how it’s made and how it gets transported.
Originality/value
This study tests an adapted model built on TPB and advocates for sustainable production and consumption in line with the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals.
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Mohamed Zaki Balboula and Mona Ahmed Shemes
This study examines how financial distress affects the capital structure of Egyptian firms following the 2016 currency flotation, examining the moderating roles of board…
Abstract
Purpose
This study examines how financial distress affects the capital structure of Egyptian firms following the 2016 currency flotation, examining the moderating roles of board characteristics and ownership structure.
Design/methodology/approach
Utilizing data from non-financial companies listed on the Egyptian Stock Exchange from 2017 to 2022, we apply two-stage least squares (2SLS) and propensity score matching (PSM) to address endogeneity and selection bias.
Findings
Our findings indicate that financially distressed firms tend to increase their debt burden, but robust governance mechanisms, such as higher board independence, larger boards and strong blockholder and institutional ownership, significantly mitigate this effect. Managerial ownership shows a stabilizing influence during distress, while chief executive officer duality does not significantly impact leverage decisions. These findings underscore how robust corporate governance promotes more conservative capital structure decisions during economic volatility.
Research limitations/implications
Our study focus, country and period could limit the generalizability of our findings to other regions or sectors.
Practical implications
Investors and policymakers are advised to focus on firms with effective governance structures to mitigate distress-induced leverage increases. Governance reforms that enhance board effectiveness and ownership structure, e.g. increasing board independence requirements and promoting greater institutional investor participation, can further stabilize capital structure during downturns. Managers, in turn, should diversify financing and adopt prudent debt strategies to reduce overreliance on leverage.
Originality/value
In contrast to most studies, this research reverses the lens by exploring how financial distress shapes capital structure decisions in an emerging market context, specifically post-Egypt’s 2016 currency flotation. Employing both 2SLS and PSM to address endogeneity and selection bias, the study highlights the mitigating role of governance mechanisms, which can buffer firms against heightened debt reliance under economic volatility.
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Dina H. Gabr and Mona A. ElBannan
This study aims to explore how environmental investments impact the firm financial outcomes in emerging markets using a sample of 4,081 firms across 25 emerging countries from…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to explore how environmental investments impact the firm financial outcomes in emerging markets using a sample of 4,081 firms across 25 emerging countries from different regions from 2010–2022.
Design/methodology/approach
Fixed effect regressions with robust standard errors for unbalanced panel data are used to investigate the impact of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) disclosure scores and carbon emissions intensity on firm profitability. The authors used simultaneous quantile regressions with bootstrapped standard errors to allow for estimating parameters of different quantiles of superior and inferior financial performers. Non-linear regressions are used to test for curvilinear relationships. Two-stage least squares regressions are used to mitigate concerns of endogeneity.
Findings
The results reveal that firms with less emissions of carbon dioxide report high profitability, however, firms with high ESG disclosure scores do not achieve superior performance. The authors detect a positive curvilinear U-shaped relationship and determine threshold level of ESG scores. Furthermore, firms with sustainable investments have more resilient performance during COVID-19 pandemic.
Research limitations/implications
A comprehensive analysis of the complex effect of environmental sustainability on financial performance in emerging markets uncovers the strategic motivations behind ESG disclosures and the thresholds where environmental performance translates into financial gains. Overall, this study emphasises the significance of sustainable investments in enhancing long-term profitability and resilience in emerging markets during turbulent times.
Practical implications
Proactive carbon emission reduction strategies are essential to safeguard firm competitive advantage. Firm ESG investments should be considered when forecasting firm value and stock price. There is a growing need for rigid policies to promote a green economy and mitigate climate change risks.
Originality/value
Offers a unique setting to examine the association between firm environmental and financial performance across emerging countries and regions. It explores the non-linear shape and magnitude of this relation across high-low quantiles of profitability. It sheds new light on the impact of sustainable practices on firm resilience during COVID-19 pandemic.
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Mona Kardani Malekinezhad, Fariborz Rahimnia, Ghasem Eslami and Mohammad Mahdi Farahi
Human resource analytics (HRA) has recently received attention. However, its literature remains unknown and scattered due to both limited conceptual lenses and limited…
Abstract
Purpose
Human resource analytics (HRA) has recently received attention. However, its literature remains unknown and scattered due to both limited conceptual lenses and limited classification. So, this study is conducted to provide a comprehensive research analysis in this field.
Design/methodology/approach
Accordingly, 107 HRA studies, which were collected according to the Scientific Procedures and Rationales for Systematic Literature Reviews (SPAR-4-SLR) in the last 14 years (2010–2023), were analyzed in the first using the theory-context-characteristics-methods step to examine the evolution of HRA research. The study also develops a conceptual framework based on socio-technical system theory that shows the antecedents and outcomes of HRA adoption. In the second step, fuzzy Delphi and fuzzy step-wise weight assessment ratio analysis techniques were used to validate and refine the antecedents and outcomes obtained from the first step in such a way that experts’ opinions can be used and the existing knowledge body can be expanded.
Findings
In total, 30 antecedents and outcomes were confirmed based on the consensus of experts. Senior management support was identified as the most important antecedent and achieving organizational strategic outcomes as the most important outcomes of HRA adoption.
Originality/value
The study maps the current state of HRA studies, identifies directions for future studies by providing a state-of-the-art review of theories, antecedents, outcomes, contexts and methodologies and proposes a framework for HR managers and professionals to apply.
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Mohammad Asarian, Mona Jami Pour and Mojtaba Talafidaryani
In spite of intensive research that explained the strategic flexibility-performance and information technology (IT) strategy-performance relationships, there is a little insight…
Abstract
Purpose
In spite of intensive research that explained the strategic flexibility-performance and information technology (IT) strategy-performance relationships, there is a little insight regarding how these notions ideally affect business performance. Accordingly, this study attempts to investigate how businesses can translate IT directions and strategic practices into actual increases in business performance. More precisely, the primary purpose of this paper is to explore the influential role of strategic flexibility and IT strategy on business performance considering balanced scorecard (BSC) dimensions in the context of the tourism industry.
Design/methodology/approach
An empirical investigation of 331 tourism businesses was performed to explore the relationship between strategic flexibility, IT strategy and business performance. A non-probability convenience sampling was applied to select the sample. Factor analysis, descriptive statistics and cluster analysis were used to analyze the data.
Findings
The findings include the clustering of the studied businesses in terms of strategic flexibility and IT strategy. A cluster analysis based on strategic flexibility indicates that businesses can be divided into four main clusters, and based on IT strategy, they can be classified in three main clusters. The results show that businesses with a high level of strategic flexibility and a high level of IT strategic practices have high performance. More importantly, it was known that proactiveness and strategic use of IT have more predictor role on performance.
Originality/value
A review of the strategic management literature reveals a lack of empirical studies that adequately explore the significant roles of strategic flexibility and IT strategy on business performance in the tourism industry. This paper provides actionable insights into these two main determinants that explain why some tourism businesses outperform others. The primary contribution of this study is to address the gap in our understanding of the interconnections between strategic flexibility, IT strategy and business performance through cluster analysis in the tourism industry.
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Abdulkader Zairbani and Senthil Kumar Jaya Prakash
The purpose of this paper is to provide an organizing lens for viewing the distinct contributions to knowledge production from those research communities addressing the impact of…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to provide an organizing lens for viewing the distinct contributions to knowledge production from those research communities addressing the impact of competitive strategy on company performance in general, and the influence of cost leadership and differentiation strategy on organizational performance in detail.
Design/methodology/approach
The research methodology was based on the PRISMA review, and thematic analysis based on an iterative process of open coding was analyzed and then the sample was analyzed by illustrating the research title, objectives, method, data analysis, sample size, variables and country.
Findings
The main factor that influenced the competitive strategy is strategic growth; strategic growth has a significant influence on competitive strategy. Furthermore, competitive strategy will boost firm network, performance measurement and organization behavior. In the same way, the internal goal factor will enhance organizational effectiveness. Also, a differentiation strategy will support management practice factors, strategic positions, product price, product characteristics and company performance.
Originality/value
This study contributes to the literature by identifying a framework of competitive strategy factors, company performance factors, cost leadership strategy factors, differentiation strategy factors and competitive strategy with global market factors. This study provides a complete picture and description of the resulting body knowledge in competitive strategy and organizational performance.