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Article
Publication date: 30 May 2023

Wided Bouaine, Karima Alaya and Chokri Slim

The objective of this paper is to study the impact of political connection and governance on credit rating and whether there is a substitution or complementary relationship…

200

Abstract

Purpose

The objective of this paper is to study the impact of political connection and governance on credit rating and whether there is a substitution or complementary relationship between them.

Design/methodology/approach

In order to achieve the objective, a succession of eight ordered probit regressions has been carried out. Moderating variables between the political connection and governance characteristics were introduced. The whole population is taken as a sample, i.e., 27 Tunisian companies that are evaluated by FITSH NORTH AFRICA agencies over a period of 10 years (2009–2018).

Findings

The outcomes are mixed. They show that the political connection does not always influence credit rating; the size and board independence always improves credit rating; the duality between the functions affects credit rating; whereas the majorities’ proportion does not influence credit rating; and a substitution between the political connection and the governance characteristics is validated.

Research limitations/implications

Like any other research, our results are factors of our measures and variable choice and depends heavily on the how these variables were conceived. Also, although our number of observations responds to the statistical result generalization requirements, our sample remains relatively narrow with 27 companies only.

Practical implications

In practice, the research will allow investors to have a better vision upon the future of their investments based on whether to develop their governance system or promote political networking. It will also prompt lenders to look beyond ratings and consider factors such as political connections to make a rational judgment on their future placements.

Social implications

This study leads us to find various solutions: the establishment of credit agencies that take into consideration all the data of all the operators taken as a whole (bank, leasing company, and factoring). It encourages the reorganization of the Tunisian banking sector through mergers for example.

Originality/value

This study is a pioneer in the credit rating field in Tunisia, where the source of debt financing is the most used by all enterprises across all sectors. This study extends the literature of political connection effectiveness, independent directors, board size, in improving corporate performance and credit rating.

Details

Journal of Accounting in Emerging Economies, vol. 14 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2042-1168

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 20 April 2010

P. Sibanda and O.D. Makinde

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the hydromagnetic steady flow and heat transfer characteristics of an incompressible viscous electrically conducting fluid past a

795

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the hydromagnetic steady flow and heat transfer characteristics of an incompressible viscous electrically conducting fluid past a rotating disk in a porous medium with ohmic heating, Hall current and viscous dissipation are also investigated.

Design/methodology/approach

Using appropriate similarity variables and boundary‐layer approximations, the fluid equations for continuity, momentum and energy balance governing the problem are formulated. These equations are solved numerically by using the most effective Newton‐Raphson shooting method along with fourth‐order Runge‐Kutta integration algorithm.

Findings

It was found that magnetic field retards the fluid motion due to the opposing Lorentz force generated by the magnetic field. Both the magnetic field and the Eckert number tend to enhance the heat transfer efficiency. The Hall parameter however reduces the heat transfer rate. In terms of the friction coefficient, the magnetic interaction parameter, the Hall parameter and the Eckert number all combine to increase the skin friction, while increasing the Darcy number (increasing permeability) reduces the skin friction so increasing the fluid velocity.

Practical implications

This paper provides a very useful source of information for researchers on the subject of hydromagnetic flow in porous media.

Originality/value

This type of problem has potential to serve as a prototype for practical swirl problems, for example, axisymmetric flow in combustors.

Details

International Journal of Numerical Methods for Heat & Fluid Flow, vol. 20 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0961-5539

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 27 November 2020

José A.D. Machuca, Juan A. Marin-Garcia and Rafaela Alfalla-Luque

This paper analyzes whether the Triple-A supply chain (SC)–competitive advantage (CA) relationship is influenced by the country context and considers the case of emerging vs…

396

Abstract

Purpose

This paper analyzes whether the Triple-A supply chain (SC)–competitive advantage (CA) relationship is influenced by the country context and considers the case of emerging vs developed countries. Any differences in the importance of the three Triple-A SC dimensions (agility, adaptability and alignment) and a potential synergy effect among them when pursuing CA are also analyzed.

Design/methodology/approach

Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) method is applied to an international multiple informant sample of 304 manufacturing plants in nine developed and five emerging countries.

Findings

A significant positive relationship is found between the Triple-A SC and CA in the full sample and in the two separate samples of emerging and developed countries, which is more intense in the emerging countries. For the same samples, it is also concluded that (1) there are no significant differences in the importance of SC adaptability (SC-Ad), SC agility (SC-Ag) and SC alignment (SC-Al) as levers in the Triple-A SC–CA relationship and (2) a synergy effect among the Triple-A SC dimensions when pursuing CA is not supported.

Research limitations/implications

The present study brings new evidence to the previous research on Triple-A SC and its relationship with CA in different country contexts. For managers, this work (1) shows that Triple A should be considered in the design of global SCs irrespective of the country context and (2) offers a first approach for determining the Triple-A SC levers that must be taken into consideration when pursuing a CA.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to Triple-A SC theory development. It is the first research study that analyzes the effect of the country context on the Triple-A SC–CA relationship and the importance of each of the Triple-A SC dimensions and their possible synergy effect when pursuing CA using a multiinformant international sample taken from different country contexts.

Article
Publication date: 28 January 2014

Ashraf M. Attia, M. Asri Jantan, Nermine Atteya and Rana Fakhr

The purpose of this paper is to examine similarities and differences of current state of initial sales training practices of both domestic and multinational corporations (MNCs) in…

1614

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine similarities and differences of current state of initial sales training practices of both domestic and multinational corporations (MNCs) in Egypt. This paper begins by reviewing the cross-cultural sales training research and developing hypotheses.

Design/methodology/approach

A methodology section follows, including measurement instruments, sample and data collection, and validity and reliability measures. The data were collected from sales managers, marketing managers, and sales supervisors.

Findings

Results reveal that MNCs differ significantly from their domestic counterparts in the following sales training phases: needs determination, objective setting, program methods, program contents, and training evaluation.

Research limitations/implications

In-depth discussion, managerial implications, and suggestions for future research are provided.

Originality/value

There has been very limited research published on sales training practices in the Middle East (Yaseen and Khanfar, 2009) and Egypt in particular (e.g. Attia and Honeycutt, 2012; Honeycutt et al., 2001). This research sheds further highlights on sales training practices in Egypt and adds in filling in the gap in sales training literature by addressing sales training in Egypt.

Details

Marketing Intelligence & Planning, vol. 32 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0263-4503

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 11 June 2024

Girges Sidhom, Sahar Attia and Mohammed A. Zayed

In light of the technological advancements and impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on educational systems, universities worldwide had to find new methods to ensure that the…

298

Abstract

Purpose

In light of the technological advancements and impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on educational systems, universities worldwide had to find new methods to ensure that the educational process continued. In many countries, including Egypt, it has become a priority to direct their institutions toward digital transformation, using electronic means in the educational process. A set of challenges emerged in the educational process, especially in architectural learning, focusing on the design studio; problems intensified and some professors rejected the idea of distance learning, announcing their strong adherence to traditional face-to-face learning. This research aims to find a methodology that informs the choice of digital technology in architectural design courses.

Design/methodology/approach

The researchers used both qualitative and quantitative methodology based on inductive, analytical, interview-questionnaire and empirical studies in Egypt.

Findings

Results show that many criteria affect the selection of proper applications. Also, using multiple applications in architecture design course helps students understand the material. However, hybrid learning is crucial in teaching architectural design since it cannot be effectively conveyed solely through distance learning.

Originality/value

The results of the research will help improve and develop the distance learning system in architectural education by proposing a methodology for choosing suitable electronic tools for architecture studio courses. These courses enhance the effectiveness of students' understanding and comprehension during the distance learning process to increase motivation for thinning development, imagination and educational skills.

Details

Archnet-IJAR: International Journal of Architectural Research, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2631-6862

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 29 October 2021

Adel Attia, Lobna Khorshed, Samir Morsi and Elsayed Ashour

The purpose of this study was to investigate the polyacrylic polymer/Al2O3 as a new nanocomposite coating to protect brass and Al-bronze in 3.5% NaCl and the role of alumina…

104

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate the polyacrylic polymer/Al2O3 as a new nanocomposite coating to protect brass and Al-bronze in 3.5% NaCl and the role of alumina formulation on their protection efficiency

Design/methodology/approach

The corrosion efficiency of the nanocomposite coating (NCC) was evaluated by open circuit potential and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS).

Findings

The protection efficiency was more in the case of Al-bronze even for the same formulation of alumina NCC indicated the Cu substrate contribution. The Cu oxides in alloys and Al2O3 from the NCC and Al-bronze were responsible for this protection.

Originality/value

All the techniques supported each other, the presence of alumina was responsible for the corrosion protection efficiency.

Details

Anti-Corrosion Methods and Materials, vol. 69 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0003-5599

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 15 July 2022

Radwa Tawfik, Sahar Attia, Ingy Mohamed Elbarmelgy and Tamer Mohamed Abdelaziz

Women's travel pattern is different from those of men. Women who have both paid employment and unpaid care work have more complex travel patterns. However, land-use policies and…

281

Abstract

Purpose

Women's travel pattern is different from those of men. Women who have both paid employment and unpaid care work have more complex travel patterns. However, land-use policies and urban mobility strategies in the Egyptian context do not consider these differences. This paper analyzes and discusses the travel patterns of the Egyptian working women with children. It examines the difference between men's and women's travel behavior in different income levels. The paper aims at determining the main factors that affect working women's travel patterns within the care economy framework and suggesting recommendations for enhancing women's travel patterns in Greater Cairo Region (GCR).

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology relies on conducting a quantitative and qualitative analysis using questionnaires and interviews with working women and men from different social/economic levels in two different workplaces in GCR.

Findings

The results demonstrate that income level, workplace locations, schools locations, and schools typologies greatly affect working women's travel patterns in GCR.

Originality/value

The study findings will help urban planners and decision-makers to improve working women's mobility to make their daily trips shorter and more accessible to achieve equitable cities through understanding the conducted affecting factors and considering the suggested recommendations.

Details

Archnet-IJAR: International Journal of Architectural Research, vol. 17 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2631-6862

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 27 August 2024

Seyed Morteza Hosseini, Shahin Heidari, Shady Attia, Julian Wang and Georgios Triantafyllidis

This study aims to develop a methodology that extracts an architectural concept from a biological analogy that integrates forms and kinetic behavior to identify whether complex…

143

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to develop a methodology that extracts an architectural concept from a biological analogy that integrates forms and kinetic behavior to identify whether complex forms work better or simple forms with proper kinetic behavior for improving visual comfort and daylight performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The research employs a transdisciplinary approach using several methods consisting of a biomimetic functional-morphological approach, kinetic design strategy, case study comparison using algorithmic workflow and parametric simulation and inverse design, to develop an interactive kinetic façade with optimized daylight performance.

Findings

A key development is the introduction of a periodic interactive region (PIR), which draws inspiration from the butterfly wings' nanostructure. These findings challenge conventional perspectives on façade complexity, highlighting the efficacy of simpler shapes paired with appropriate kinetic behavior for improving visual comfort. The results show the façade with a simpler “Bookshelf” shape integrated with a tapered shape of the periodic interactive region, outperforms its more complex counterpart (Hyperbolic Paraboloid component) in terms of daylight performance and glare control, especially in southern orientations, ensuring occupant visual comfort by keeping cases in the imperceptible range while also delivering sufficient average spatial Daylight Autonomy of 89.07%, Useful Daylight Illuminance of 94.53% and Exceeded Useful Daylight Illuminance of 5.11%.

Originality/value

The investigation of kinetic façade studies reveals that precedent literature mostly focused on engineering and building physics aspects, leaving the architectural aspect underutilized during the development phase. Recent studies applied a biomimetic approach for involving the architectural elements besides the other aspects. While the biomimetic method has proven effective in meeting occupants' visual comfort needs, its emphasis has been primarily on the complex form which is difficult to apply within the kinetic façade development. This study can address two gaps: (1) the lack of an architectural aspect in the kinetic façade design specifically in the development of conceptual form and kinetic behavior dimensions and (2) exchanging the superficial biomimetic considerations with an in-depth investigation.

Details

Smart and Sustainable Built Environment, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2046-6099

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 20 September 2024

Rohit Kumar Singh, K. Mathiyazhagan and Angappa Gunasekaran

This research aims to investigate the relationship between knowledge capabilities, engagement capabilities, operational capabilities and sustainable supply chain flexibility in…

201

Abstract

Purpose

This research aims to investigate the relationship between knowledge capabilities, engagement capabilities, operational capabilities and sustainable supply chain flexibility in the steel production industry. In addition, it seeks to understand how these elements contribute toward achieving a net-zero supply chain, under the moderation of industry dynamism.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 371 people have responded to the self-administered survey that the authors developed. The nonresponse bias analysis was carried out before diving into fundamental assumptions, such as homoscedasticity and normality. The data's reliability and construct validity were assessed by using confirmatory factor analysis. The hypothesized conclusions were supported by subsequent regression outputs, strengthening the body of existing academic research.

Findings

The research's empirical results highlight the positive relationship among knowledge capabilities, operational capabilities, sustainable supply chain flexibility and net-zero supply chain, particularly under the influence of industry dynamism. Information obtained from the steel production industry corroborates these findings. Moderation role of industry dynamism in the relationship between operational capabilities, engagement capability and sustainable supply chain flexibility was found significant.

Originality/value

This conceptual framework clarifies how knowledge capability, dynamic capabilities and the flexibility of a sustainable supply chain interact. It highlights how these factors collectively work together to attain a sustainable supply chain with net-zero environmental impact.

Article
Publication date: 30 August 2024

Ephrem Negash Shebeshe and Dhiraj Sharma

The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) practices on both competitive advantage (CA) and organizational performance (OP…

360

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) practices on both competitive advantage (CA) and organizational performance (OP) in the manufacturing sector in Ethiopia.

Design/methodology/approach

Data for the study were collected from a sample of 221 manufacturing companies operating in the four manufacturing groups/sectors in Ethiopia. In addition, data analysis was performed using the partial least squares method, which is a variance-based Structural Equation Modeling approach in the Smart-PLS software version (SmartPLS 4.0).

Findings

Based on the statistical analysis of the collected data, it demonstrates that SSCM has a significant and positive impact on both competitive advantage and organizational performance. Furthermore, statistical findings offer proof of the clear connection between competitive advantage and organizational performance. Moreover, competitive advantage indirectly mediates the relationship between SSCM and OP.

Research limitations/implications

The primary limitation of this research is its reliance on a cross-sectional design. The generalizability of the findings obtained from the present study may be hindered. The variable under investigation in this research assessed organizational performance, a concept that is widely acknowledged to be extremely dynamic.

Practical implications

The study provides managers and researchers with valuable information on Sustainable Supply Chain Management strategies and how they influence competitive advantage and organizational performance in commercial and industrial environments.

Originality/value

This paper adds to the body of knowledge by providing new data and empirical insights into the relationship between SSCM practices and the performance of manufacturing companies in Ethiopia.

Details

International Journal of Productivity and Performance Management, vol. 74 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1741-0401

Keywords

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