Karima El Kihel, Hasnae Saadi, Rachid Aharrouch, Abdelmoumen El Antari, Nabil Hachem, Mohamed Madani and Mohammed El Bouziani
The authors investigate the magnetic properties of a mixed spin-3/2 and spin-2 Blume-Capel model on square and cubic lattices with two different single-ion anisotropies.
Abstract
Purpose
The authors investigate the magnetic properties of a mixed spin-3/2 and spin-2 Blume-Capel model on square and cubic lattices with two different single-ion anisotropies.
Design/methodology/approach
To study the critical behavior of a mixed spin-3/2 and spin-2 system, the authors have used a real space renormalization group approximation and specifically the Migdal-Kadanoff technique. The authors give the phase diagrams for two different cases: (1) on the (Δ/|J|, 1/|J|) plane with ΔA = ΔB = Δ, and (2) on the (ΔA/|J|, 1/|J|) and (ΔB/|J|, 1/|J|) planes for selected values of ΔB/|J| and ΔA/|J|, respectively.
Findings
The phase diagrams obtained show that the system exhibits both second- and first-order phase transitions as well as tricritical points for some values of the anisotropies. Moreover, using the variation of the free energy and its derivative at low temperatures, the authors have seen the appearance of first-order transitions at very low temperatures.
Originality/value
Few investigations of mixed spin-3/2 and spin-2 systems with crystal field have been realized. For this reason, the authors use the renormalization group approach to complete the work done on these systems. In absence of an exact solution, this contributes to the synthesis of the approximation results on mixed spins models.
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Karima El Kihel, Rachid Aharrouch, Yahya Al Qahoom, Mohamed Madani, Nabil Hachem and Mohammed El Bouziani
The purpose of this article is to investigate the magnetic properties and the hysteresis loops behavior of a ferrimagnetic cubic nanowire with mixed spins SA = 3/2 and SB = 2.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this article is to investigate the magnetic properties and the hysteresis loops behavior of a ferrimagnetic cubic nanowire with mixed spins SA = 3/2 and SB = 2.
Design/methodology/approach
We have used the Monte Carlo simulation to examine the influences of the exchange interaction JB, the crystal field ∆ and the temperature on the magnetic properties and hysteresis loops of the nanowire. More exactly, we have shown the temperature dependence of the sublattice magnetizations (mA and mB) and the total magnetization (M) for several values of the Hamiltonian parameters, as well as the corresponding phase diagrams. Finally, the effect of an external magnetic field is studied by plotting the hysteresis loops of the system for different values of exchange interaction, crystal field and temperature.
Findings
The obtained results show the existence of second-order phase transitions, as well as the compensation behavior. Moreover, according to the values of the Hamiltonian parameters, the system can exhibit one, two or three hysteresis loops.
Originality/value
The magnetic nanowires are of great interest in experimental works, but without theoretical explanations, the experimental results cannot be clarified in depth. For this, we contribute through this theoretical study to understand the nanowires, especially those with mixed spins (2, 3/2).
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Rachid Aharrouch, Karima El Kihel, Mohamed Madani, Nabil Hachem, Amer Lafhal and Mohammed El Bouziani
The purpose of this paper is to study the magnetic properties and the hysteresis behavior of a ferrimagnetic cubic Ising nanowire with mixed spins S = 3/2 and S = 5/2 in which the…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to study the magnetic properties and the hysteresis behavior of a ferrimagnetic cubic Ising nanowire with mixed spins S = 3/2 and S = 5/2 in which the atoms are placed alternately.
Design/methodology/approach
In order to investigate the effects of the exchange interactions and crystal field on the magnetic properties and hysteresis behavior of the nanowire, we have used the Monte Carlo simulation. More precisely, we have plotted the thermal variations of the sublattice and total magnetizations for different values of the Hamiltonian parameters, and we have presented the corresponding phase diagrams. In addition, the influence of an external magnetic field is examined by plotting the variations of hysteresis loops with the change of temperature and crystal field.
Findings
All phase transition found in this study are of second-order and the critical temperatures increase linearly with the increase of the exchange interactions. The compensation temperatures appear only for some domains of crystal field D and exchange interaction JB of the sublattice (B). Moreover, when studying the hysteresis behavior, the system can show one or double hysteresis loops.
Originality/value
The authors consider that this research is consistent with the scientific axis of the journal which benefits a great esteem in our country and in the world. In addition, the results are of technological interest.
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Mohamed Madani Hafidi, Meriem Djezzar, Mounir Hemam, Fatima Zahra Amara and Moufida Maimour
This paper aims to offer a comprehensive examination of the various solutions currently accessible for addressing the challenge of semantic interoperability in cyber physical…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to offer a comprehensive examination of the various solutions currently accessible for addressing the challenge of semantic interoperability in cyber physical systems (CPS). CPS is a new generation of systems composed of physical assets with computation capabilities, connected with software systems in a network, exchanging data collected from the physical asset, models (physics-based, data-driven, . . .) and services (reconfiguration, monitoring, . . .). The physical asset and its software system are connected, and they exchange data to be interpreted in a certain context. The heterogeneous nature of the collected data together with different types of models rise interoperability problems. Modeling the digital space of the CPS and integrating information models that support cyber physical interoperability together are required.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper aims to identify the most relevant points in the development of semantic models and machine learning solutions to the interoperability problem, and how these solutions are implemented in CPS. The research analyzes recent papers related to the topic of semantic interoperability in Industry 4.0 (I4.0) systems.
Findings
Semantic models are key enabler technologies that provide a common understanding of data, and they can be used to solve interoperability problems in Industry by using a common vocabulary when defining these models.
Originality/value
This paper provides an overview of the different available solutions to the semantic interoperability problem in CPS.
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Amin Houari, Madani Kouider, Alper Polat, Salah Amroune, Barhm Abdullah Mohamad, Ahmed Chellil and Raul Campilho
The purpose of this research is to evaluate the effectiveness of different repair patch materials in reducing the stresses at the crack tip of a 2024-T3 aluminum plate. This…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this research is to evaluate the effectiveness of different repair patch materials in reducing the stresses at the crack tip of a 2024-T3 aluminum plate. This involves a numerical analysis using the finite element method (FEM) to estimate the reduction in the J-integral value, with the goal of identifying how various parameters related to the patch materials, adhesive properties and loading conditions influence the structural integrity of the repaired plate.
Design/methodology/approach
The methodology of this research involves conducting a numerical analysis using the FEM to estimate the reduction in the J-integral value at the crack tip of a 2024-T3 aluminum plate. Three types of patches – metal, composite and functionally graded material (FGM) – were examined under tensile loading conditions, and Adekit-A140 adhesive was used to bond these repair patches to the aluminum plate.
Findings
The analysis considered various parameters, including crack length, the nature of fibers in the composite material, the gradation exponent for FGM patches and the nature of the face in contact with the adhesive for the FGM patch. Additionally, stress analysis was conducted, examining the J-integral values for the plate, shear stress in the adhesive layer and peel stress in the composite patch. The findings highlight that modifying the nature of the repair patch used can significantly enhance the structural integrity of the repaired plate.
Originality/value
The study analyzed J-integral values, shear stress in the adhesive and peel stress in the composite patch. Various parameters, including crack length, fiber type, gradation exponent and adhesive contact face nature, were considered. Results demonstrate that the J-integral value can be significantly reduced by altering the repair patch type, highlighting the effectiveness of customized patch materials in enhancing structural integrity.
Details
Keywords
Salah Amroune, Cherif Saib, Amin Houari, Said Zergane, Barhm Abdullah Mohamad, Kouider Madani, Mohamed Lamin Aichouche and Madi Zidane
This study aims to develop high-performance truck trailer supports using polyamide PA6, a thermoplastic material renowned for its mechanical strength, durability and adaptability…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to develop high-performance truck trailer supports using polyamide PA6, a thermoplastic material renowned for its mechanical strength, durability and adaptability to extreme conditions. By analysing the material’s properties and exploring manufacturing methods such as injection moulding and 3D printing, the research seeks to optimise the design and production of supports capable of withstanding heavy-duty mechanical stresses. The ultimate goal is to provide the transport industry with reliable, cost-effective and durable solutions that meet safety standards and performance demands, ensuring enhanced operational efficiency and resilience in challenging environments.
Design/methodology/approach
The study investigates the design and production of truck trailer supports using polyamide PA6, chosen for its high mechanical strength, thermal stability, and resistance to wear and chemical exposure. The research evaluates manufacturing techniques, including injection moulding and 3D printing, to optimise part performance and durability under heavy-duty mechanical stresses. Emphasis is placed on designing supports capable of enduring harsh environmental conditions while ensuring safety and cost-efficiency. By leveraging the superior properties of PA6, the study aims to develop reliable solutions that meet the transport industry’s stringent performance and economic requirements.
Findings
The study confirms that using PA6 polyamide for truck trailer supports is an innovative and cost-effective solution, offering superior mechanical performance and environmental resistance. A detailed analysis of PA6 properties and manufacturing methods reveals its suitability as a robust and durable alternative for trailer supports. This integration marks a significant advancement in improving trailer efficiency and performance while maintaining quality standards. The findings underscore the importance of leveraging technological advancements to address challenges in innovation and sustainability, supporting the growth of the transport and logistics sector.
Originality/value
This study introduces an innovative approach to designing truck trailer supports by utilising polyamide PA6, highlighting its superior mechanical properties and environmental resilience. By combining material analysis with advanced manufacturing techniques, such as injection moulding and 3D printing, the research provides a novel framework for producing durable, cost-effective components tailored to the transport industry’s demands. The originality lies in the integration of PA6 into heavy-duty applications, showcasing its potential to enhance performance, efficiency and sustainability. This work adds significant value by addressing critical industry challenges and offering practical solutions that align with modern safety and environmental standards.
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Menna Tarek, Ehab K.A. Mohamed, Mostaq M. Hussain and Mohamed A.K. Basuony
Information technology (IT) largely affected contemporary businesses, and accordingly, it imposes challenges on the auditing profession. Several studies investigated the impact of…
Abstract
Purpose
Information technology (IT) largely affected contemporary businesses, and accordingly, it imposes challenges on the auditing profession. Several studies investigated the impact of IT, in terms of the extent of use of IT audit techniques, but very studies are available on the perceived importance of the said issue in developing countries. This study aims to explore the impact of implementing IT on the auditing profession in a developing country, namely, Egypt.
Design/methodology/approach
This study uses both quantitative and qualitative data. A survey of 112 auditors, representing three of the Big 4 audit firms as well as ten local audit firms in Egypt, is used to gather preliminary data, and semi-structured interviews are conducted to gather details/qualitative-pertained information. A field-based questionnaire developed by Bierstaker and Lowe (2008) is used in this study. This questionnaire is used first in conducting a pre-test, and then, the questionnaire for testing the final results is developed based on the feedback received from the test sample.
Findings
The findings of this study reveal that auditors’ perception regarding client’s IT complexity is significantly affected by the use of IT specialists and the IT expertise of the auditors. Besides, they perceive that the new audit applications’ importance and the extent of their usage are significantly affected by the IT expertise of the auditors. The results also reveal that the auditors’ perception regarding the client’s IT is not affected by the control risk assessment. However, the auditors perceive that the client’s IT is significantly affected by electronic data retention policies. The results also indicated that the auditors’ perception regarding the importance of the new audit applications is not affected by the client’s type of industry. The auditors find that the uses of audit applications as well as their IT expertise are not significantly affected by the audit firm size. However, they perceive that the client’s IT complexity as well as the extent of using IT specialists are significantly affected by the audit firm size.
Research limitations/implications
This study is subject to certain limitations. First, the sample size of this research is somehow small because it is based on the convenience sampling technique, and some of the respondents were not helpful in answering the surveys distributed for this research’s purpose. This can be attributed to the fear of the competitors that their opponent may want to gather information regarding their work to be able to succeed in the competition in the market so they become reluctant to provide any information about their firm. Even some people who were interested to participate were not having enough time because the surveys were distributed during the high season of their audit work and there was limited time for the research to be accomplished. Hence, it is difficult to generalize the results among all the audit firms in Egypt because this limits the scope of the analysis, and it can be a significant obstacle in finding a trend. However, this can be an opportunity for future research. Second, the questionnaire is long and people do not have enough time to complete it. This also affected the response rate. In addition to this, the language of the questionnaire was English, so some respondents from the local audit firms were finding difficulty in understanding some sophisticated IT terms.
Practical implications
This study makes some recommends/suggestions that can well be used to solve some practical problems regarding the issues concerned. This study focuses on accounting information system (AIS) training during the initial years of the auditors’ careers to help staff auditors when they become seniors to be more skilled with AIS expertise needed in today’s audit environment. Clear policy statements are important to direct employees so that IT auditors evaluate the adequacy of standards and comply with them. This study suggests increasing the use of AIS to enhance individual technical and analytical skill sets and to develop specialized teams capable of evaluating the effectiveness of computer systems during audit engagements. This study further recommends establishing Egyptian auditing standards in this electronic environment to guide the auditors while conducting their audit work.
Social implications
Auditors should prioritize causes of risks and manage them with clear understanding of who receives them, how they are communicated and what action should be taken in a given community/society. So, they have to determine and evaluate all risks according to the client’s type of industry (manufacturing, non-financial services and financial). Auditors also have to continually receive feedback on the utility of continuous auditing (CA) in assessing risk. In particular, it is better for the auditor to determine how the audit results will be used in the enterprise risk management activity performed by the management. In addition, privacy has several implications to auditing, and so, it has to be reflected in the audit program and planning as well as the handling of assignment files and reports. Alike, retention of electronic evidence for a limited period of time may require the auditor to select samples several times during the audit period rather than just at year end.
Originality/value
As mentioned, this study is conducted within a developing country’s context. The use and importance of IT is reality of time. However, very few studies are devoted to explore the use/importance of IT in auditing in developing countries, and thus, this study carries a significance to have better understanding about it. Moreover, knowledge of how IT is used, the related risks and the ability to use IT as a resource in the performance of audit work is essential for auditor effectiveness at all levels including developing countries.
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Mostafa Abdel-Hamied, Ahmed A.M. Abdelhafez and Gomaa Abdel-Maksoud
This study aims to focus on the main materials used in consolidation processes of illuminated paper manuscripts and leather binding.
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to focus on the main materials used in consolidation processes of illuminated paper manuscripts and leather binding.
Design/methodology/approach
For each material, chemical structure, chemical composition, molecular formula, solubility, advantages, disadvantages and its role in treatment process are presented.
Findings
This study concluded that carboxy methyl cellulose, hydroxy propyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, cellulose acetate, nanocrystalline cellulose, funori, sturgeon glue, poly vinyl alcohol, chitosan, chitosan nanoparticles (NPs), gelatin, aquazol, paraloid B72 and hydroxyapatite NPs were the most common and important materials used for the consolidation of illuminated paper manuscripts. For the leather bindings, hydroxy propyl cellulose, polyethylene glycol, oligomeric melamine-formaldehyde resin, acrylic wax SC6000, pliantex, paraloid B67 and B72, silicone oil and collagen NPs are the most consolidants used.
Originality/value
Illuminated paper manuscripts with leather binding are considered one of the most important objects in libraries, museums and storehouses. The uncontrolled conditions and other deterioration factors inside the libraries and storehouses lead to degradation of these artifacts. The brittleness, fragility and weakness are considered the most common deterioration aspects of illuminated paper manuscripts and leather binding. Therefore, the consolidation process became vital and important to solve this problem. This study presents the main materials used for consolidation process of illuminated paper manuscripts and leather bindings.
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Kamlesh Kukreti, Kunal Ganguly and Taab Ahmad Samad
This paper aims to present a hybrid approach to measure the efficiency of virtual contact centers (VCCs) started during the pandemic and benchmark them for service performance…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to present a hybrid approach to measure the efficiency of virtual contact centers (VCCs) started during the pandemic and benchmark them for service performance. The results are used to plot the VCC's efficiency score (performance) and customer perception (Importance) to propose appropriate strategies.
Design/methodology/approach
Using the survey method, 854 responses were collected from customers who used VCC services during the pandemic. This data was then employed to assess the performance of VCCs using SERVPERF and DEA methods, followed by the development of the model for performance analysis.
Findings
Results reveal the ranking of different VCCs started during the pandemic for the telecom company using SERVPERF and DEA methods. Further, the performance analysis model highlighted the strategies appropriate for each VCCs.
Practical implications
The findings add to the body of knowledge on how multiple service units of a large organization can assess service efficiency utilizing a combination of SERVPERF-DEA. The present work also contributes to the performance analysis field by proposing a model to assess the service centers and provide improvement guidelines.
Originality/value
The work is one of the first to assess the service efficiency of the VCCs started during the pandemic by using a unique hybrid approach of SERVPERF and DEA. This approach provides a direction to whom to benchmark and to what degree service quality should be improved. Further, the study proposes a unique performance analysis model based on performance scores and customer perception.
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Riadh Djafri, Mariana Mohamed Osman, Noor Suzilawati Rabe and Syafiee Shuid
The purpose of this paper is to identify, confirm and validate a model appropriate to capture the interrelationships between different variables to develop and improve social…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to identify, confirm and validate a model appropriate to capture the interrelationships between different variables to develop and improve social housing quality, adequacy, provision and residents’ quality of life (RQOL).
Design/methodology/approach
This research adopted a quantitative approach to examine the research objectives of this study. The proposed conceptual framework was tested using primary data collected from a survey of 418 residents of the new urban center of Hamla. The data were analyzed using descriptive analysis and exploratory factor analysis through SPSS. In addition, confirmatory factor analysis was performed using AMOS before validating the measurement model and testing the hypotheses through structural equation modeling (SEM).
Findings
The results of SEM indicated acceptable high goodness-of-fit indices. The results revealed that three out of six hypotheses were supported. Consequently, residential quality and housing adequacy appeared to have a vital role in the conceptual framework, as it influenced social housing provision and RQOL and was influenced by socio-economic characteristics.
Practical implications
The present study illustrates the interrelationships between the proposed variables using SEM analysis. In addition, by understanding the direct relationships between the selected variables, the findings would be useful for the concerned authorities to ameliorate and upgrade the social housing quality and adequacy along with surpassing the current shortage, which would enhance and contribute to the amelioration of the RQOL and throughout Algeria.
Originality/value
This paper aims to establish, examine, validate the relationships and develop a conceptual framework in the context of Algerian social housing that contributes to the assessment and amelioration of social housing.