Mohammad Madani, Yasir Khan, Mahdi Fathizadeh and Ahmet Yildirim
The purpose of this paper is to report the effect of radiation on flow of a magneto‐micropolar fluid past a continuously moving plate with suction and blowing.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to report the effect of radiation on flow of a magneto‐micropolar fluid past a continuously moving plate with suction and blowing.
Design/methodology/approach
The governing equations are transformed into dimensionless nonlinear ordinary differential equations by similarity transformation. Analytical technique, namely the homotopy perturbation method (HPM) combining with Padé approximants and finite difference method, are used to solve dimensionless non‐linear ordinary differential equations. The skin friction coefficient and local Nusselt numbers are also calculated. Beside this, the comparison of the analytical solution with numerical solution is illustrated by the graphs for different values of dimensionless pertinent parameters.
Findings
The authors have studied laminar magneto‐micropolar flow in the presence of radiation by using HPM‐Padé and finite difference methods. Results obtained by HPM‐Padé are in excellent agreement with the results of numerical solution.
Originality/value
The HPM‐Padé is used in a direct way without using linearization, discritization or restrictive assumption. The authors have attempted to show the capabilities and wide‐range applications of the HPM‐Padé in comparison with the finite difference solution of magneto‐micropolar flow in the presence of radiation problem.
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Masudul Alam Choudhury and Mohammad Al‐Hasan Biraima
Reliance on statistical data on trade and development for Islamic countries cannot forecast the state of the future state of reconstruction of the Muslim World in this field. The…
Abstract
Reliance on statistical data on trade and development for Islamic countries cannot forecast the state of the future state of reconstruction of the Muslim World in this field. The limitation here is due to the age‐old debility of the Muslim World to project any significant economic, social and institutional transformation in the light of her own communal interest and self‐reliance. Thus the past economic data on trade and development variables show no pattern of future change. Forecasting with these data simply projects the past state of the Muslim World into the future. For these reasons, a model of reconstruction and transformation of the Muslim World on Islamic grounds necessitates reliance on normative issues. Yet these are issues that are First theoretically modelled and then empirically investigated for viability according to survey data.
Jalil Heidary Dahooie, Mohammad Reza Ghezel Arsalan and Ali Zolghadr Shojai
The purpose of this paper is to propose a new method for knowledge worker productivity measurement which is based on valid principles and appropriate viewpoints.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to propose a new method for knowledge worker productivity measurement which is based on valid principles and appropriate viewpoints.
Design/methodology/approach
Based on an extensive and thorough literature review the elements that need to be taken into consideration, while designing a method for knowledge worker productivity measurement, are determined and divided into principles and viewpoints. These elements must be incorporated into the design of knowledge worker productivity measurement methods so that the correctness and accuracy of these methods can be verified. The proposed model, which is based on appropriate principles and viewpoints, determines the outputs of knowledge work with respect to the tasks that a worker’s job includes. Considering nine measures, these outputs are evaluated using fuzzy numbers and, then, quantified. The inputs of knowledge work are knowledge, skills and abilities (KSAs) required to do the job. These inputs are identified and quantified using Job Element Method. Furthermore, fuzzy Data Envelopment Analysis is employed to model the productivity.
Findings
In this paper, the proposed method for knowledge worker productivity measurement follows both appropriate principles and viewpoints, simultaneously. In order to validate the obtained results and explore the applicability of the proposed method, a case study was carried out at an Iranian organization in electric power industry. Statistical analyses are employed to prove the validity of the results. Based on the obtained results, the productivity of a knowledge worker is said to be high when he/she delivers the expected amount of job outputs considering the values of his/her inputs (KSAs).
Originality/value
The originality of this paper is twofold. First, the extracted principles and viewpoints can serve as a guideline for the development of similar methods. Second, the proposed model offers an effective and efficient tool that can serve as the basis for the comparison among relative productivity of knowledge workers. Furthermore, the obtained results could form a basis to examine the productivity trend of each knowledge worker over different periods of time.
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Mona Jami Pour, Javad Mesrabadi and Mohammad Asarian
Reviewing the existing literature in the field of e-learning success reveals a considerable number of studies that primarily investigate the causal relationships proposed by the…
Abstract
Purpose
Reviewing the existing literature in the field of e-learning success reveals a considerable number of studies that primarily investigate the causal relationships proposed by the DeLone and McLean (D&M) information system (IS) success model. However, the various relationships in the D&M model have found different levels of support or even contradictory results within the empirical literature. To synthesize the existing knowledge in the field of e-learning success, the authors have conducted a meta-analysis of e-learning success studies using D&M to combine the quantitative results and validate the model in this field. Furthermore, a moderator analysis involving user types was performed to examine the situation under which they may have different effects.
Design/methodology/approach
For this purpose, through a systematic review of the studies, 44 independent studies were selected from 29 qualified related journals. In order to analyze the quantitative results of the studies, the meta-analysis of the effect sizes of the casual relationships in the D&M model has been used.
Findings
The findings indicated that all relationships of the model were supported. It was also revealed that the extent of effect sizes of the examined relationships depends on the type of user. Except for one relationship (user satisfaction and net benefit), all effect sizes of employees were more than those of students and teachers.
Research limitations/implications
This meta-analysis reviewed the relationships found in the literature on D&M constructs in e-learning contexts. This study better explains the e-learning success factors by consolidating contradictory findings in the past researches and contributes to the existing e-learning success literature. The findings can assist educational institutions and organizations in decision-making because the findings resulting from the meta-analysis are more consistent than previous primary researches.
Originality/value
Despite the widespread use of the D&M model in the field of e-learning success, no study has yet consolidated the quantitative findings of these studies and the current field abounds in some controversies and inconsistent findings. This paper integrates the results of empirical studies that examined the relationships within the D&M model. The main contribution of this paper, which is the first of its kind, is to apply meta-analysis to reconcile the conflicting findings, investigate the strengths of the relationships in the D&M model and provide a consolidated view.
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Marta Campos-Valenzuela, Julio Diéguez-Soto and Daniel Ruiz-Palomo
The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of human capital investment (HCI) on corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices in SMEs. Analysing a sample of 1,136 firms…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of human capital investment (HCI) on corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices in SMEs. Analysing a sample of 1,136 firms (729 FBs and 407 NFBs) and using a PLS-PM methodology, our results support that HCI has a favourable impact on CSR practices in SMEs and that family business (FB) status plays a moderating role on these relationships.
Design/methodology/approach
We estimate the proposed model using partial least squares path modelling (PLS-PM), a variance-based structural equation (SEM) method, using SmartPLS 3.3 software. PLS simultaneously evaluates the reliability and validity of the variables (external model) and the estimation of the trajectories between these constructs (internal model). The PLS-PM technique is appropriate in this research because: 1. the model makes use of type A composites; 2. the proposed research model has some complexity since we pay attention to the existence of moderating effects; and 3. no specific distribution is required in PLS indicators.
Findings
The main findings of this study are: (1) HCI increases CSR practices in the SME context and (2) FB status exerts a positive influence on the relationship between HCI and CSR practices.
Research limitations/implications
This study, grounded in RBV theory and the concept of “familiness,” uses employees' education and training to measure HCI in FBs. While other research focuses on employee competence and attitude to define HCI, future studies should explore all these elements to better understand their impact on CSR practices in SMEs. Additionally, factors like regulation, organisational culture and personal traits may influence the relationship between HCI and CSR practices, suggesting the need for further research. Future studies could also examine family SMEs by considering aspects such as family management or governance as moderating variables, contributing to the discussion on FB heterogeneity. Causes of heterogeneity in FBs include goals, governance structures and resources, supporting recent calls for a deeper understanding of these variations, particularly in how HCI affects CSR practices.
Practical implications
This study also highlights several practical contributions. Today’s complex business environment requires organisations to focus on a wide range of stakeholders to remain sustainable. Organisations must understand how HCI influences CSR practices, specifically how education and training for both employees and managers lead to greater sustainable practices. Therefore, awareness and training for family employees, CEOs and external staff are essential for the proper development of CSR practices. Increased education or training programs by public and private institutions or incentive schemes could help promote these practices within firms. Our results further suggest that governments and other organisations interested in business development should not assume that HCI is universally beneficial for CSR practices in all firms. Specifically, the study shows that HCI has a positive effect on different dimensions of CSR in SMEs, and this influence is even more pronounced in family SMEs. Therefore, government agencies and employers' associations should consider the impact of these factors—HCI and FB status—when designing and implementing more effective policies.
Social implications
This study makes several theoretical contributions. It explores the influence of HCI on multiple dimensions of CSR, focusing on individual-level drivers like education and training for managers and employees. The findings reveal that HCI positively affects environmental, labour and social CSR practices, especially in SMEs. The study also highlights the unique role of FBs, showing that FB status strengthens the relationship between HCI and CSR due to their focus on long-term goals and community well-being. This research addresses gaps in understanding the heterogeneity of CSR practices between FBs and non-family businesses (NFBs).
Originality/value
This article is original, unpublished and all sources and contributions have been properly acknowledged.
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Ali Heidari, Din Mohammad Imani and Mohammad Khalilzadeh
This paper aims to study the hub transportation system in supply chain networks which would contribute to reducing costs and environmental pollution, as well as to economic…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to study the hub transportation system in supply chain networks which would contribute to reducing costs and environmental pollution, as well as to economic development and social responsibility. As not all customers tend to buy green products, several customer groups should be considered in terms of need type.
Design/methodology/approach
In this paper, a multi-objective hub location problem is developed for designing a sustainable supply chain network based on customer segmentation. It deals with the aspects of economic (cost reduction), environment (minimizing greenhouse gas emissions by the transport sector) and social responsibility (creating employment and community development). The epsilon-constraint method and augmented epsilon-constraint (AEC) method are used to solve the small-sized instances of this multi-objective problem. Due to the non-deterministic polynomial-time hardness of this problem, two non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm-II (NSGA-II) and multi-objective grey wolf optimizer (MOGWO) metaheuristic algorithms are also applied to tackle the large-sized instances of this problem.
Findings
As expected, the AEC method is able to provide better Pareto solutions according to the goals of the decision-makers. The Taguchi method was used for setting the parameters of the two metaheuristic algorithms. Considering the meaningful difference, the MOGWO algorithm outperforms the NSGA-II algorithm according to the rate of achievement to two objectives simultaneously and the spread of non-dominance solutions indexes. Regarding the other indexes, there was no meaningful difference between the performance of the two algorithms.
Practical implications
The model of this research provides a comprehensive solution for supply chain companies that want to achieve a rational balance between the three aspects of sustainability.
Originality/value
The importance of considering customer diversity on the one hand and saving on hub transportation costs, on the other hand, triggered us to propose a hub location model for designing a sustainable supply chain network based on customer segmentation.
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Habeeb Abdulrauf Salihu and Amin Jafari
The purpose of this paper is to examine the various anti-corruption strategies used to fight economic and financial crimes in both the public and private sectors in Iran.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to examine the various anti-corruption strategies used to fight economic and financial crimes in both the public and private sectors in Iran.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper relied essentially on a secondary source of information. Materials used were collected in an eclectic manner from published outlets such as journal publications, books, online sources and newspaper reports. Also, official documents and statutes were also used. This study’s scope is limited to issues and analysis relating to measures adopted to combat corruption in Iran.
Findings
The legal and institutional frameworks analysed indicated that Iran has a robust anti-corruption scheme. However, there is no adequate measure available to gauge the effectiveness of these measures.
Practical implications
The paper concludes that conventional anti-corruption methods are not enough to fight corruption in this present time, thus, the implementation of whistle-blower policy and allowing freedom of operation of the civil society organisations and media would assist in the fight against corruption in Iran.
Originality/value
The paper provides the legal and institutional anti-corruption frameworks in Iran. It explores the three major approaches or methods of combating corruption and other corrupt practices in Iran.
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Ali Heidari, Mohammad Khalilzadeh, Dragan Pamucar and Fatih Ecer
The purpose of this study was to address waste management in the food supply chain (FSC) through the integration of inspection processes in production and distribution centers…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study was to address waste management in the food supply chain (FSC) through the integration of inspection processes in production and distribution centers under uncertain conditions, aiming to enhance sustainability across environmental, economic and social dimensions. The study introduces a sustainable forward and reverse FSC network using a closed-loop supply chain network approach to prevent the transfer of spoiled products, ultimately providing competitive advantages to stakeholders.
Design/methodology/approach
A robust multi-objective mathematical programming model is proposed, incorporating inspection processes to manage perishable products effectively. The model is solved using the Augmented Epsilon Constraint technique implemented in GAMS software, providing Pareto-optimal solutions tailored to decision-makers’ preferences. Furthermore, the methodology is applied in a real-world case study and solved with the Benders Decomposition algorithm to validate its practicality and effectiveness.
Findings
The proposed methodology effectively minimizes waste and enhances sustainability in the FSC by optimizing decision-making processes under uncertainty. The illustrative examples and real case study demonstrate the efficiency of the model and solution approach, highlighting the significant role of inspection in improving all three dimensions of sustainability.
Practical implications
The study offers valuable insights into and tools for food industry managers to make informed strategic and tactical decisions. By addressing waste management through advanced supply chain modeling, the research helps organizations reduce costs, improve sustainability and gain a competitive edge in the market.
Originality/value
This research is novel in its focus on integrating inspection into the FSC network and addressing uncertainty through robust mathematical modeling. It contributes to the existing literature by demonstrating the impact of inspection on sustainability in FSCs and providing practical solutions for real-world implementation.
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Nedal Sawan, Krayyem Al-Hajaya, Rami Ibrahim A. Salem and Mohammad Alshhadat
This study aims to explore the perceptions of accountancy students on the use of technology, blended learning and flipped classroom in two emerging UK higher education…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to explore the perceptions of accountancy students on the use of technology, blended learning and flipped classroom in two emerging UK higher education institutions (HEIs).
Design/methodology/approach
The primary data for the study were collected using a questionnaire survey and descriptively analysed.
Findings
The findings revealed that there is some use of technology in terms of the Blackboard and PowerPoint presentations but blogs and wikis have very limited use. An aspect that does not seem to be integrated fully yet is the use of blended technology and a flipped classroom.
Practical implications
The study findings offer a picture of how technology, blended learning and the flipped classroom technique were utilised with accountancy students prior to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. This information is valuable for accounting educators and by extension to other aspects of business studies disciplines in providing a comparison between the pre-COVID-19 scenario and the current one and thus enabling an evaluation of advancement in the application of these teaching strategies as a result of the pressure imposed by social distancing. Such intelligence will facilitate the identification of areas where enhancing learning outcomes has been possible and point to opportunities for improved student experience.
Originality/value
Where COVID-19 brought about significant structural change in teaching and learning in the HE environment, this study represents a pre-COVID-19 consideration of student perceptions on blended learning and flipped classroom. This study thus has the potential to anchor future relevant studies that consider the post-COVID-19 environment.
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The term ‘fundamentalism’ has come of late into popular usage more than any other. It has been used for various Christian movements. During the twentieth century, the term came to…
Abstract
The term ‘fundamentalism’ has come of late into popular usage more than any other. It has been used for various Christian movements. During the twentieth century, the term came to be used in Christian–Protestant circles in an effort to define beliefs that are fundamental to Christian religion. The world that emerged after the Second World War saw the emergence of many former colonial and semi-colonial countries as independent nations. Their development caused ferment among the Muslim countries also. It took the form of a resurgence of fundamentalism, Islamic fundamentalism. During the last several decades, the Islamic revival that is sweeping from Morocco in the West to Mindanao in the Philippines is considered with some reason as a response to the predatory policies of Western imperialism. This was the reassertion and the response of the Muslims to the challenge of the West. This was the promise of the fundamentalist Muslims: self assertive Islamic nationalism and simplicity of argument in the hope of recapturing the pristine purity and political glory of Islam (Ahmad, 1991). The first Muslim to react against the alien accretions to Islamic society, not necessarily the result of external or foreign influence, was Shah Waliullah (1703–1762) who was almost a contemporary of Abdul Wahab (1703–1787) in Arabia. Both evolved from attempting to purge the Islamic society of foreign accretions to protesting oppression and corruption of Westernisation (Jansen, 1979). The fundamentalism today is different from that of the eighteenth century. It is not of much use to trace historical continuity in the fundamentalist ideology; although, this does not negate some linkages between Islam's past history and modern day fundamentalist movements (Ahmed, 1994).