Xiangda Cui, Ahmed Bakkar and Wagdi George Habashi
This paper aims to introduce a three-dimensional smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) framework for simulating supercooled large droplets (SLD) dynamics at aeronautical speeds.
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to introduce a three-dimensional smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) framework for simulating supercooled large droplets (SLD) dynamics at aeronautical speeds.
Design/methodology/approach
To include the effects of the surrounding air, a multiphase model capable of handling high density-ratio problems is adopted. A diffusive term is incorporated to smooth the density field and avoid numerical instabilities. Additionally, a particle shifting technique is used to eliminate anisotropic particle distributions.
Findings
The framework is validated against low-speed droplet impingement experimental results and then applied to the droplet impingement at high speeds typical of SLD conditions. Preliminary parametric studies are conducted to investigate the post-impact splashing. It is observed that a thicker water film can decrease the crown diameter and a smaller impact angle can suppress upward and forward splashing.
Originality/value
A three-dimensional multiphase SPH framework for SLD dynamics at a wide range of impact speed is developed and validated. The effects of particle resolution, water film thickness and impact angle on the post-impact crown evolution are investigated.
Details
Keywords
Istemi Demirag, Thanamas Kungwal and Yassine Bakkar
This paper investigates stakeholders' perspectives of share buybacks in the context of time-horizons of investment decisions and strategy.
Abstract
Purpose
This paper investigates stakeholders' perspectives of share buybacks in the context of time-horizons of investment decisions and strategy.
Design/methodology/approach
We use in-depth interviews with stakeholders from eight listed UK firms as well as examine their publicly available data.
Findings
Findings suggest that share buybacks involve a wide range of stakeholders' rational interests and long-term management perspectives as they enable firms to strategise operational plans towards their long-term corporate goals.
Research limitations/implications
The findings are based on interviews with a small number of share buyback firms and the findings, therefore, may not be generalised to all firms.
Practical implications
The results show that share buybacks may be part of the long-term interests of firms and not necessarily used as part of short-term EPS increases as suggested in the extant literature.
Originality/value
The findings contribute to the literature on corporate pay-out policies in the context of short-term financial objectives vs long-term strategic objectives of stakeholders. They show that share buybacks can be an important part of firms' long-term strategic considerations.
Details
Keywords
Ayesha Zahid, Nabila Asghar and Noman Arshed
Macroeconomic policy shocks have consistently provoked debate across global economies, given their significant effect on economic growth, particularly by affecting markets and…
Abstract
Purpose
Macroeconomic policy shocks have consistently provoked debate across global economies, given their significant effect on economic growth, particularly by affecting markets and employment through changes in consumer behavior. Policymakers need proper abatement measures for both internal and external uncertainties.
Design/methodology/approach
The present study aims to analyze the impacts of internal and external policy uncertainty on consumption in 22 countries with their trading shares with each other from 2010q1 to 2021q4. In this regard, for external policy shocks the study constructed an index for each country based on their bilateral trade shares a weighted average of internal policy uncertainty.
Findings
By applying the panel ARDL, a U-shaped relationship between consumption and policy shocks is observed. Further, for the county wise assessment of internal and external policy uncertainty on domestic consumption is assessed and it has shown to be negative in most of countries. Gross effects are also revealed where internal policy shocks have more influence than external policy shocks as countries can diversify external risks from their trade portfolio. Other determinates of consumption like income and exchange rate have positive effects, while interest rate and inflation have negative influences.
Originality/value
The outcomes provide internal and external policy insights for consumption stabilization.
Details
Keywords
Adel Ismail Al-Alawi, Fatima Abdulrahman BinZaiman and Nehal F. Elnaggar
This paper aims to examine the factors affecting the implementation of corporate social responsibility (CSR) sustainably in mobile operators in the kingdom of Bahrain.
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to examine the factors affecting the implementation of corporate social responsibility (CSR) sustainably in mobile operators in the kingdom of Bahrain.
Design/methodology/approach
The research relies on the existing literature as a secondary data source. The primary data was collected through questionnaires distributed to three leading mobile operators in the Kingdom of Bahrain. The research's population numbered 1,689, and the sample size was 313; the simple random sampling method was used for data collection with a response rate of 87.2% out of a total sample size of 273 respondents. In addition, the responses were analyzed using statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) software version 24.0; specifically, Spearman's rank correlation was used to test the hypotheses. The research design was quantitative, so a nonparametric procedure was applied to test the hypotheses.
Findings
The research produced positive relationships between the independent variables (economic, legal, ethical, philanthropic and environmental responsibilities) and the dependent variable: CSR implementation by Bahrain mobile operators; therefore, the five proposed hypotheses were accepted; furthermore, the highest positive correlation coefficient was 0.735 for environmental responsibility, and the lowest correlation coefficient was 0.533 for economic responsibility.
Research limitations/implications
The research produced positive relationships between the independent variables (economic responsibility, legal responsibility, ethical responsibility, philanthropic responsibility and environmental responsibility) and the dependent variable: CSR implementation by Bahrain mobile operators; therefore, the five proposed hypotheses were accepted; furthermore, the highest positive correlation coefficient was 0.735 for environmental responsibility, and the lowest correlation coefficient was 0.533 for economic responsibility.
Social implications
The outcomes of the research mainly suggest that mobile operators assign employees who have been working with the company for more than 7 years to implement CSR; due to their engagement to implement CSR as a sustainable practice more than others with less than 3 years or 3-6 years in Bahrain mobile operators. Besides, the research provides a starting point by which other researchers could investigate CSR in other sectors in the Kingdom of Bahrain.
Originality/value
The research provided a framework for Bahrain mobile operators to assist them in enhancing the implementation of CSR in a sustainable manner, which are economic, legal, ethical, philanthropic and environmental responsibilities.
Details
Keywords
Md Sajjad Hosain, Ping Liu and Mohitul Ameen Ahmed Mustafi
The purpose of this empirical paper is to identify the role of social networking information (SNI) on job candidates' pre-employment background checking (PBC) process. SNI was…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this empirical paper is to identify the role of social networking information (SNI) on job candidates' pre-employment background checking (PBC) process. SNI was further divided into three elements: perceived availability of information (PAI), perceived accuracy of information (PACI) and perceived reliability of information (PRI). In addition, the authors employed two mediating variables: perceived benefit (PB) and organizational branding (OB) to study the influence of each element of SNI on PBC.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors used primary data collected from a valid sample of 465 using a structured questionnaire survey selected through purposive sampling. For descriptive analysis, SPSS 24 and for testing the hypothesized relationships, structural equation modeling technique (with AMOS 24) were utilized.
Findings
The results indicated that only PAI had strong positive influence on PBC. The other two independent variables: PACI and PRI had insignificant positive influence on PBC. In case of mediators, OB was found to partially mediate the relationship between PAI and PBC while it did not mediate two other direct relationships. Further, PB did not mediate any relationship at all.
Research limitations/implications
The paper is expected to be useful for the academicians involved in investigating the role of SNI on PBC as a lucrative research topic.
Practical implications
The hiring professionals can utilize the findings of this primary research as the guidelines for formulating effective social media background checking policies.
Originality/value
Using SNI for different HRM practices is comparatively new but a growing practice. However, the empirical investigation covering this area is almost absent in academia. This paper as one of the very initial attempts to reveal the role of SNI on PBC can fill that severe gap to some extent and guide future research attempts. Furthermore, the HR professionals are expected to be benefitted from the empirical results in formulating and implementing an effective media policy that will help them in utilizing the SNI in an efficient and rightful manner.
Details
Keywords
Zhenkun Li, Zhili Zhao, Jinliang Liu and Xin Ding
To solve the problems caused by using precise molds for copper column positioning in the current column grid array package, this paper aims to optimize the proposed friction…
Abstract
Purpose
To solve the problems caused by using precise molds for copper column positioning in the current column grid array package, this paper aims to optimize the proposed friction plunge micro-welding (FPMW) technology without mold assistance, to overcome the problems of low interfacial bonding strength, shrinkage cavities and flash defects caused by the low hold-tight force of solder on the copper column.
Design/methodology/approach
A pressurizing device installed under the drill chuck of the friction welding machine is designed, which is used to apply a static constraint to the solder ball obliquely downward to increase the hold-tight force of the peripheral solder on the copper column during welding and promote the friction metallurgical connection between them.
Findings
The results show that the application of static constraint during welding can increase the compactness of the solder near the friction interface and effectively inhibit occurrences of flash, shrinkage cavities and crystal defects such as vacancies. Therefore, compared with the unconstrained (UC) FPMW, the average strength of the statically constrained (SC) FPMW joints and aged SC-FPMW joints can be increased by 51.1% and 122.6%, and the problem of the excessive growth of the interfacial connection layer in the UC-FPMW joints during aging can be effectively avoided.
Originality/value
The application of static constraint effectively inhibits the occurrence of defects such as shrinkage cavities, vacancies and flash in FPMW joints, and the welding quality is significantly improved.
Details
Keywords
Vishal Sharma, Rajesh Kumar, Jinesh Jain and Prerna Ahuja
The research on financial satisfaction has risen substantially in recent years due to its importance in personal financial planning and individuals’ subjective well-being. Hence…
Abstract
Purpose
The research on financial satisfaction has risen substantially in recent years due to its importance in personal financial planning and individuals’ subjective well-being. Hence, this study aims to map the existing literature on financial satisfaction to present the current state of knowledge and identify substantial gaps.
Design/methodology/approach
The present review uses 109 articles published between 1985 and March 2024 and retrieved from the Scopus database. The study deploys a systematic literature review (SLR), bibliometric analysis and content analysis to attain the objectives. Through bibliometric analysis, the present study highlights the most influential authors, journals, countries and affiliations, augmenting the literature on financial satisfaction. Moreover, the study presents the detailed antecedents and consequences of financial satisfaction through content analysis.
Findings
The study outlines that most studies in the financial satisfaction area revolve around its antecedents and consequences. The review details multiple antecedents affecting financial satisfaction, such as socioeconomic, psychological, social, personality, religious, financial literacy, financial behavior and technological factors. The prominent consequences of financial satisfaction include subjective well-being, life satisfaction, happiness, emotional and financial well-being, relationship quality, work engagement and sustainable growth.
Originality/value
The present research is an inaugural SLR that comprehensively maps the existing intellectual structure on financial satisfaction. In addition, it offers future research directions for further developments on the subject.
Details
Keywords
Zahra Moinfar, Shahed Vahabi and Mohammad Vahabi
The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of the shear-thinning viscoelastic behavior of the surrounding matrix on droplet deformation by weakly compressible…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of the shear-thinning viscoelastic behavior of the surrounding matrix on droplet deformation by weakly compressible smoothed particle hydrodynamics (WC-SPH). Also, the effect of the presence of another droplet is examined.
Design/methodology/approach
A modified consistent weakly compressible SPH method is proposed. After code verification, a complete parameter study is performed for a drop under the simple shear flow of a Giesekus liquid. The investigated parameters are 0.048≤Ca ≤ 14.4, 0.1≤c ≤ 10, 0.04≤De ≤ 10, 0≤α ≤ 1 and 0.12≤Re ≤ 12.
Findings
It is demonstrated that the rheological behavior of the surrounding fluid could dramatically affect the droplet deformation. It is shown that the droplet deformation is increased by increasing Re and Ca. In contrast, the droplet deformation is decreased by increasing a, De and polymer content. Also, it is indicated the presence of another droplet could drastically affect the flow field, and the primary stress difference (N1) is resonated between two droplets.
Originality/value
The main originality of this paper is to introduce a new consistent WC-SPH algorithm. The proposed method is very versatile for tackling the shear-thinning viscoelastic multiphase problems. Furthermore, a complete parameter study is performed for a drop under the simple shear flow of Giesekus liquid. Another novelty of the current paper is studying the effect of the presence of a second droplet. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is performed for the first time.
Details
Keywords
Alexandra Gkliati, Anna Saiti, Michael Chletsos and Alexandros Panagiotis Bechlioulis
This study aims to investigate, through employees’ perceptions in Greece’s private sector, the relationship between the minimum wage and employee well-being, job satisfaction and…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to investigate, through employees’ perceptions in Greece’s private sector, the relationship between the minimum wage and employee well-being, job satisfaction and work-life balance.
Design/methodology/approach
A structured questionnaire was used consisting of four sections: employees’ personal characteristics, employee well-being, job satisfaction and work-life balance. Due to its normal distribution, correlations, T-test and simple linear regression models were executed to examine the relationships between the variables.
Findings
The main findings were: a) the wage had a significant relationship with job satisfaction and employees’ well-being, b) there is no strong statistical significance between work-life balance and wages, c) the wage was found to be a significant predictor of employees’ well-being and work life balance, and d) there were statistically significant differences between the group of employees who received the minimum wage and the group of employees who received higher wages in terms of employees’ well-being.
Originality/value
The originality of this study is that it combines a purely financial concept, such as the minimum wage, with specific elements of organizational behaviour, such as employee well-being. A better understanding of this relationship will enable companies to increase employee productivity through their willing cooperation.
Details
Keywords
Rahul Rajan Lexman, Rupashree Baral and Nimitha Aboobaker
The purpose of this study is to explore a gendered perspective on how learners' intrinsic psychological motivators: valence, technology-innovativeness, self-development and…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to explore a gendered perspective on how learners' intrinsic psychological motivators: valence, technology-innovativeness, self-development and self-efficacy as well as extrinsic social and institutional motivators, such as social norms and management commitment, collectively influence learners' behavioral intention to adopt asynchronous EdTech tools such as MOOCs.
Design/methodology/approach
A theoretical model was developed by integrating insights from social cognitive theory (SCT) and the technology acceptance model (TAM). Data were collected from 622 Indian college students across different academic levels who had enrolled in at least one MOOC. Data analysis was performed using covariance-based structural equation modeling (CB-SEM). The bootstrapping method using IBM AMOS 23.0 software was adopted further for moderation analysis.
Findings
The study found that while intrinsic drivers were positively associated with behavioral intention, extrinsic drivers had a limited influence. The results of the moderation analysis showed that gender significantly influenced the relationship between self-development and perceived usefulness as well as the relationship between valence and perceived usefulness. Our study’s findings represent a significant contribution to theoretical advancements, indicating a notable shift in students' learning emphasis from social interactions to self-directed approaches. These results align closely with the principles of connectivism within the heutagogy theory framework, underscoring learners' responsibility in shaping their learning journey.
Practical implications
Our study findings hold significant practical implications for future applications. Based on our study’s findings on the positive impact of self-development and self-efficacy, it is crucial to offer structured and interactive learning options for guided experiences. Integrating digital skills training into MOOC curricula can enhance engagement across diverse learner levels, given the significant predictive power of technology innovativeness. Furthermore, emphasizing the benefits of MOOC certifications, such as career advancement or academic recognition, can increase their appeal and perceived value, considering the significance of “valence” as an influential factor.
Originality/value
Asynchronous EdTech tools, notably MOOCs, have emerged as potent catalysts for social change, providing unparalleled accessibility, flexibility and avenues for lifelong learning. Our study pioneers an investigation into the impact of valence and technology innovativeness on learners' perceptions, significantly influencing their willingness to adopt MOOCs positively. By exploring nuanced sociological dynamics across diverse societies, our research underscores the necessity of customizing EdTech solutions to encompass diverse gender perspectives.