Osama A.G. Wahba, Ali M. Hassan, Abdelrahman M. Naser and Adel M.G. Hanafi
The purpose of this study to investigate the synthesis of new Cr(III), Fe(III), Ni(II) and Cu(II) Schiff base complexes by a simple technique (microwave technique). The evaluation…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study to investigate the synthesis of new Cr(III), Fe(III), Ni(II) and Cu(II) Schiff base complexes by a simple technique (microwave technique). The evaluation of the prepared complexes as pigments as corrosion resistant was also explored.
Design/methodology/approach
The Schiff base complexes were prepared by using microwave method (green chemistry), and then, the physico-chemical requirements according to standards for the synthesised pigments were investigate.
Findings
The prepared complexes exhibit good physical, mechanical and corrosion properties as pigments in paint formulations.
Research limitations/implications
The simple technique used for synthesis of metal complex pigments will significantly increase the cost saving for the manufacturing of such pigments category. Also, the used technique is considered a green method (eco-friendly), as there no organic solvent was used.
Practical implications
The evaluation of the prepared complex pigments as corrosion resistants was also studied.
Originality/value
It is a simple technique, green synthesis (no solvent used) is involved and high yield is obtained.
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Abdelrahman Moukhtar Naser, Hamada Abd El - Wahab, Mohamed Abd El Fattah Moustafa El Nady, Abdelzaher E.A. Mostafa, Long Lin and Ahmed Galal Sakr
This paper aims to investigate the best methods of utilisation of reclaimed asphalt pavements (RAP) in Egypt, to determine the effect of using 100% RAP instead of using virgin…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to investigate the best methods of utilisation of reclaimed asphalt pavements (RAP) in Egypt, to determine the effect of using 100% RAP instead of using virgin aggregates and asphalt; investigate the effect of thermoplastic elastomer polymer as asphalt modifier; and also improve the mechanical and physical characteristics and consequently improving the quality of asphalt paving, increasing service life of asphalt-paving and reducing costs.
Design/methodology/approach
Nano acrylate terpolymers were prepared with different % (Wt.) of and were characterised by Fourier transforms infrared (FTIR), for molecular weight (Mw), by thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA) and by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). A 4% (Wt.) of the prepared nanoemulsion terpolymer was mixed with virgin asphalt as a polymer modifier, to improve and reuse of the RAP. The modified binder was tested. The tests conducted include penetration, kinematic viscosity, softening point and specific gravity. Application of Marshall mix design types; hot mix asphalt (HMA), warm mix asphalt (WMA) and cold in place recycled (CIR). Four different mix designs used; control mix contained virgin asphalt by HMA, and the other three mix designs were polymermodified asphalt sample by HMA, WMA and CIR.
Findings
The research results showed that using 4 Wt.% of the prepared nanoemulsion terpolymer to produce hot mix asphalt (HMA) and warm mix asphalt (WMA) achieved higher stability compared to the control mix and cold in place recycled (CIR).
Research limitations/implications
This paper discusses the preparation and the characterisation of nanoemulsion and its application in RAPs to enhance and improve the RAP quality.
Practical implications
Nano-acrylate terpolymer can be used as a new polymer to modify asphalt to achieve the required specifications for RAP.
Originality/value
According to the most recent surveys, Europe produced 265 tonnes of asphalt for road applications in 2014, while the amount of available RAP was more than 50 tonnes. The use of RAP in new blended mixes reduces the need of neat asphalt, making RAP recycling economically attractive.
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Elhassan Kotb Abdelrahman Radwan, Nada Omar Hassan Ali and Mostafa Kayed Abdelazeem Mohamed
This study aims to explore the status and drivers (including free-floated shares, board size, rule duality and board independence) of corporate risk disclosure (CRD) for the…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to explore the status and drivers (including free-floated shares, board size, rule duality and board independence) of corporate risk disclosure (CRD) for the conventional listed banks in the Egyptian stock market from 2010 to 2021, which include the country’s major political upheavals and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Design/methodology/approach
This study based on a sample of 117 annual reports of sampled banks from 2010 to 2021. RD index of Al-Maghzom (2016) was developed and adopted to quantify CRD using an unweighted scoring system. The multiple linear regression model was used to validate the hypotheses.
Findings
The analysis shows that the COVID-19 pandemic increased insignificantly disclosure of all risks except for segment risks. In addition, findings reveal that all sampled banks adhere highly to the requirements of mandatory RD, with a low level of adherence to voluntary RD. Moreover, the analysis concluded that the board size and free-floating shares positively affect the disclosure of financial, operational, general information.
Research limitations/implications
The study’s limitations include the content analysis methodology, reliance on annual reports, emphasis on financial and non-financial risks, focus on listed conventional banks in Egypt.
Practical implications
Current study’s findings are more likely to be useful for many parties. It informs investors about the characteristics of the boards’ directors of Egyptian listed banks that disclosed risk information. Banks should disclose more comprehensive risk information. For academics, the current study’s limitations can be considered in their future research.
Originality/value
This work fills a new research area in which there is relatively little research in emerging financial markets that adds new evidence to the relationship between RD and both free-floating shares and board characteristics, particularly in Egypt.
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This study evaluated the impact of a faculty training program on student assessment using the Kirkpatrick model.
Abstract
Purpose
This study evaluated the impact of a faculty training program on student assessment using the Kirkpatrick model.
Design/methodology/approach
A self-reported survey assessed 111 Saudi and non-Saudi participants' satisfaction. Subjective and objective measures (self-reported measures, assessment literacy inventory and performance-based assessment tasks) gauged participants' learning level. Pre- and post-training data were collected from 2020 to 2022.
Findings
A highly significant effect on satisfaction (>80%) and learning levels was observed, as manifested by workplace practices of student assessment (>70%, the cut-off score). Pre- and post-training comparisons of participants' satisfaction and assessment literacy scores showed significant improvements following training. Multiple regression analyses showed no significant effects for gender and educational attainment but a substantial impact of academic cluster on participants' student assessment skills.
Research limitations/implications
Long-term effects of training faculty on assessment practices and student achievement will be studied at the institutional level in future research.
Practical implications
The current study contributes to human capital investment via faculty training on student assessment, helping them comply with assessment best practices. This assures the quality, fairness and consistency of assessment processes across disciplines in higher education institutions, enhances assessment validity and trust in educational services and may support institutional accreditation.
Social implications
This study provides opportunities for sharing best practices and helps establish a community of practice. It enhances learning outcomes achievement and empowers higher education graduates with attributes necessary to succeed in the labor market. The human capital investment may have a long-term impact on overall higher education quality.
Originality/value
This study contributes to the scarce literature investigating the impact of training faculty from different clusters on student assessment using subjective and objective measures. It provides developing and evaluating a long-term student assessment program following the Kirkpatrick model.
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The initiative for sustainability in the construction industry has led to the innovative utilization of automobile tire waste, transforming it into value-added products, toward…
Abstract
Purpose
The initiative for sustainability in the construction industry has led to the innovative utilization of automobile tire waste, transforming it into value-added products, toward decarbonization in the construction industry, aligning with the development and sustainability goals of Al-Kharj Governorate. However, the disposal of these materials generates significant environmental concerns. As a payoff for these efforts, this study aims to contribute to a fruitful shift toward eco-friendly recycling techniques, particularly by studying the transformation of tire waste bead wires into recycled steel tire fibers (RSTFs) for sustainable concrete composites.
Design/methodology/approach
This research delves into how this technological transformation not only addresses environmental concerns but also propels sustainable tire innovation forward, presenting a promising solution for waste management and material efficiency in building materials. Recent studies have highlighted the superior tensile strength of RSTFs from discarded tires, making them suitable for various structural engineering applications. Recently, there has been a notable shift in research focus to the use of RSTFs as an alternative to traditional fibers in concrete. In this study, however, efforts have paid off in outlining a comprehensive assessment to investigate the viability and efficacy of repurposing tire bead wires into RSTFs for use in concrete composites, as reported in the literature.
Findings
This study examined the Saudi waste management, the geometrical properties of RSTFs, and their impact on the strength properties of concrete microstructure. It also examined the economic, cost, and environmental impacts of RSTFs on concrete composites, underscoring the need for the construction industry to adopt more sustainable and adaptable practices. Furthermore, the main findings of this study are proposed insights and a blueprint for the construction industry in Al-Kharj Governorate, calling for collective action from both public and private sectors, and the community to transform challenges into job opportunities for growth and sustainability.
Originality/value
This study pointed to thoroughly demonstrate the technological advancement in converting tire waste to reinforcing fibers by evaluating the effectiveness, environmental sustainability, and practicality of these fibers in eco-friendly concrete composites. Besides, the desired properties and standards for RSTFs to enhance the structural integrity of concrete composites are recommended, as is the need to establish protocols and further study into the long-term efficacy of RSTF-reinforced concrete composites.
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Abderahman Rejeb, Karim Rejeb and Suhaiza Zailani
This study aims to address the noted gap in comprehensive overviews detailing the developmental trajectory of Islamic finance (IF) as an interdisciplinary academic field.
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to address the noted gap in comprehensive overviews detailing the developmental trajectory of Islamic finance (IF) as an interdisciplinary academic field.
Design/methodology/approach
The study introduces a unique approach using the combined methodologies of co-word analysis and main path analysis (MPA) by examining a broad collection of IF research articles.
Findings
The investigation identifies dominant themes and foundational works that have influenced the IF discipline. The data reveals prominent areas such as Shariah governance, financial resilience, ethical dimensions and customer-centric frameworks. The MPA offers detailed insights, narrating a journey from the foundational principles of IF to its current challenges and opportunities. This journey covers harmonizing religious beliefs with contemporary financial models, changes in regulatory landscapes and the continuous effort to align with broader socioeconomic aspirations. Emerging areas of interest include using new technologies in IF, standardizing global Islamic banking and assessing its socioeconomic effects on broader populations.
Originality/value
This study represents a pioneering effort to map out and deepen the understanding of the IF field, highlighting its dynamic evolution and suggesting potential avenues for future academic exploration.
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George Ghassan Issa Kidess, Liam Browning, Nicole Oska, Liza Hinchey, Arwa Saleem, Sadie Knill, Malaak Elhage and Arash Javanbakht
Arab Americans experience higher rates of mental illness and lower rates of treatment compared to the general population. While some factors leading to this disparity have been…
Abstract
Purpose
Arab Americans experience higher rates of mental illness and lower rates of treatment compared to the general population. While some factors leading to this disparity have been proposed, data in the literature remains lacking. This study aims to explore the mental health perspectives of Arab Americans living in Southeastern Michigan regarding barriers to mental health treatment, treatment resource preferences and telemental health preferences.
Design/methodology/approach
Responses were collected through an anonymous bilingual Qualtrics survey from both Arab and non-Arab participants (n = 294, ages 18+) in Southeastern Michigan. Participants’ perceptions regarding mental health barriers, resource preferences and telemental health were assessed. Comparisons were performed between Arabs and non-Arabs, and among Arabs.
Findings
Compared to non-Arabs, Arabs were less likely to seek mental health treatment from a therapist or a primary care provider and were more likely to not seek treatment. Arabs were more likely than non-Arabs to list fear of being called crazy by others and cultural barriers. With regards to preferences on telemental health utilization, no significant differences between Arab and non-Arab participants were found.
Originality/value
The results provide insights into Arab-American mental health perspectives, especially pertaining to mental health barriers, resources and telemental health preferences, adding a novel perspective on the mental health preferences of Arab-American subgroups, especially regarding gender and age differences. This study highlights the Arab-American population as a nuanced and diverse group, emphasizing the importance of future studies to show a more complete picture of Arab-American mental health.
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Abd-Elrahman Hassanein Abd-Elrahman
This study aims to empirically explore telecommunications service quality (SQ) and its impact on the customer loyalty (CL) through a mediating impact of customer satisfaction (CS…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to empirically explore telecommunications service quality (SQ) and its impact on the customer loyalty (CL) through a mediating impact of customer satisfaction (CS) during the COVID-19 pandemic crisis.
Design/methodology/approach
A survey was conducted involving 384 customers of telecommunications service providers in Egypt. The hypothesized direct relationships were tested through regression analysis, and the mediating effect was tested using structural equation modeling technique.
Findings
The results reveal a strong positive relationship of SQ dimensions, CS and CL. Reliability, privacy and security and convenience, respectively, proved to increase CS and CL more than the other SQ dimensions, particularly during COVID-19. Moreover, CS was found to significantly and fully mediate the effect of SQ on CL.
Research limitations/implications
This is an empirical research applied in the Egyptian telecommunications setting. Its relationships need further investigation in other settings and countries. Also, traditional limitations of a cross-sectional study apply with respect to the attribution of causality and the time lag effects.
Practical implications
In strategic planning of telecommunications services and the associated consumer behavior, the results of this study can be helpful for policymakers. In case of similar epidemics and natural calamities, consumers may depict similar behavior as shown during the lockdown and social distancing during COVID-19; hence, this study can help regulatory bodies in preparing their safety roadmap.
Originality/value
This study contributes to the body of knowledge in enhancing the understanding on the impact of telecommunications SQ on CS and loyalty, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic crisis.