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Article
Publication date: 10 May 2021

A. Bahrawy, Mohamed El-Rabiei, Hesham Elfiky, Nady Elsayed, Mohammed Arafa and Mosaad Negem

The commercial stainless steels have been used extensively in the biomedicine application and their electrochemical behaviour in the simulated body fluid (SBF) are not uncovered…

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Abstract

Purpose

The commercial stainless steels have been used extensively in the biomedicine application and their electrochemical behaviour in the simulated body fluid (SBF) are not uncovered obviously. In this research, the corrosion resistance of the commercial stainless steel of Fe–17Cr–xNi alloys (x = 4, 8, 10 and 14) has been studied. This study aims to evaluate the rate of corrosion and corrosion resistance of some Fe–Cr–Ni alloys in SBF at 37°C.

Design/methodology/approach

In this research, the corrosion resistance of the commercial stainless steel of Fe–17Cr–xNi alloys has been studied using open circuit potential, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and potentiodynamic polarization in the SBF at 37°C and pH 7.4 for a week. Also, the surface morphology of the four alloys was investigated using scanning electron microscopy, elemental composition was obtained via energy dispersive spectroscopy and the crystal lattice structure of Fe–17Cr–xNi alloys was obtained using X-ray diffraction technique. The chemical structure of the protective oxide film has been examined by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and metals ions released into the solution have been detected after different immersion time using atomic absorption spectroscopy.

Findings

The results revealed that the increase of the Ni content leads to the formation of the stable protective film on the alloys such as the Fe–17Cr–10Ni and Fe–17Cr–14Ni alloys which possess solid solution properties. The Fe–17Cr–14Ni alloy displayed highest resistance of corrosion, notable resistance for localized corrosion and the low corrosion rate in SBF because of the formation of a homogenously protective oxide film on the surface. The XPS analysis showed that the elemental Fe, Cr and Ni react with the electrolyte medium and the passive film is mainly composed of Cr2O3 with some amounts of Fe(II) hydroxide at pH 7.4.

Originality/value

This work includes important investigation to use commercial stainless steel alloys for biomedical application.

Details

Anti-Corrosion Methods and Materials, vol. 68 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0003-5599

Keywords

Available. Content available
Article
Publication date: 1 December 1999

194

Abstract

Details

Disaster Prevention and Management: An International Journal, vol. 8 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0965-3562

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Article
Publication date: 18 July 2023

Luke Hughes, Rachel M. Taylor, Lorna A. Fern, Lisa Monaghan, Beverley Flint, Sue Gibbons and Anika Petrella

The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in immense pressure on healthcare workers (HCWs) and healthcare systems worldwide. The current multi-centre evaluation sought to explore the…

125

Abstract

Purpose

The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in immense pressure on healthcare workers (HCWs) and healthcare systems worldwide. The current multi-centre evaluation sought to explore the association between coping behaviours and levels of psychological distress among HCWs working during the initial onset of COVID-19.

Design/methodology/approach

Between April and July 2020 HCWs at three urban hospitals in England were invited to complete an online survey measuring personal and professional characteristics, psychological distress and coping. A principal component analysis (PCA) identified components of coping and structural equation modelling (SEM) was used to test the relationship between components of coping and psychological distress.

Findings

A total of 2,254 HCWs participated (77% female, 67% white, 66% in clinical roles). Three components for coping were retained in the PCA analysis: external strategies, internal strategies and self-criticalness/substance use. SEM indicated that internally based coping was associated with lower levels of psychological distress, whereas externally based coping and self-criticalness were associated with greater psychological distress. The final model accounted for 35% of the variance in psychological distress.

Originality/value

This multi-centre evaluation provides unique insight into the level of psychological distress among HCWs during the initial onset of the COVID-19 pandemic (2020) and associated coping strategies. Addressing self-criticalness and supporting cognitive-based internal coping strategies among HCWs may protect against prolonged exposure to psychological distress. Findings highlight the importance of developing a culture of professional resilience among this vital workforce as a whole rather than placing pressure on an individual's personal resilience.

Details

Continuity & Resilience Review, vol. 5 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2516-7502

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Article
Publication date: 28 January 2020

Waled Younes E. Alazzabi, Hasri Mustafa and Ahmed Razman Abdul Latiff

The purpose of this paper is to explore and provide insights into corruption and the control procedures from an Islamic perspective.

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore and provide insights into corruption and the control procedures from an Islamic perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper adopts qualitative research approach using the holy Quran as a primary source and hadith of the Prophet Mohammed supported by the anecdotes of his companions as a secondary source and prior literature.

Findings

This paper offers an Islamic taxonomy of corruption that contains economic, managerial, financial, political, environmental, social and ethical corruption which is explicitly prohibited because of their consequence on societies. Islam establishes proactive, preventive, detecting and reactive procedures to control corruption and prescribes how to avoid its harmful consequences. The paper also reveals significant concepts in relation to individuals’ qualities that if taken care of, better chances to reduce corruption and better living conditions can be accomplished.

Research limitations/implications

The paper recommends means to the business community through providing managerial and practical procedures which can be used for limiting corruption effectively. However, this piece of work provides further explanations on corruption to improve our understanding on such a phenomenon and contributes to the literature from the perspective of Islam point of view.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the debate on corruption, human, religion and control from an Islamic point of view, which is lacking. This paper finds evidence that loss of belief is a situational factor that leads to corrupt acts. Also, moral teaching in early ages is necessary for inner and self-control. Moral renovation is an influential factor that keeps individuals motivated and refrain from indulging into corrupt acts.

Details

Journal of Financial Crime, vol. 27 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1359-0790

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Expert briefing
Publication date: 13 September 2018

Increased gas production has encouraged Egyptian firms to seek out new partnerships. The main developers of Israel's Leviathan and Tamar gas fields and an Egyptian firm are…

Details

DOI: 10.1108/OXAN-DB238294

ISSN: 2633-304X

Keywords

Geographic
Topical
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Article
Publication date: 14 July 2021

Aref M. Eissa and Yasser Eliwa

This paper examines the effect of political connections (PCs) on firms' profitability and market value in the Egyptian market after the uprising of 2013.

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Abstract

Purpose

This paper examines the effect of political connections (PCs) on firms' profitability and market value in the Egyptian market after the uprising of 2013.

Design/methodology/approach

An empirical study is conducted based on 284 firm-year observations for non-financial listed firms on the EGX100 during the period of 2014–2017. To test the study’s hypothesis, two independent sample t-test, Pearson correlation analysis and ordinary least square (OLS) regressions are conducted.

Findings

The results suggest that PCs are common across all industries in Egypt, the PCs through top officers do not improve firm's profitability; however, it has a positive effect on firms' market value. Further, PCs through business owners improve neither profitability nor the market value. Finally, the results suggest that PCs through government ownership have a positive effect on both firms' profitability and market value.

Practical implications

The study’s finding encourages policymakers and regulators in emerging markets, e.g. Egypt, to develop stricter laws, policies and regulatory initiatives to restrain the potential conflict of interest in the politically connected firms.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors' knowledge, this study is one of the first to examine the relationship between PCs and both firms’ profitability and market value in Egypt.

Details

Asian Review of Accounting, vol. 29 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1321-7348

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Article
Publication date: 8 January 2025

Mariusz Kmiecik

The purpose of this paper is to present the design and implementation of a genetic algorithm (GA), using a large language model (LLM) for optimizing the delivery scheduling…

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present the design and implementation of a genetic algorithm (GA), using a large language model (LLM) for optimizing the delivery scheduling process in warehouses of third-party logistics (3PL) companies, within the context of a simplified case study, and to highlight the main directions for implementing this methodology in business realities.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a simplified case study of an international 3PL company, this study applies a GA developed in RStudio by LLM to generate test scenarios and input data. The GA was optimized to minimize the time and distance of movement in the process of preparing goods for shipment, demonstrating its effectiveness in improving warehouse delivery scheduling.

Findings

The study confirms that the GA, supported by LLM, significantly improves the delivery planning process in the warehouse. Specifically, the implementation of the GA led to notable improvements in scheduling efficiency and a reduction in the distance traveled within the warehouse. These enhancements enable more efficient generation, evaluation and optimization of logistic scenarios. Additionally, the use of LLM greatly facilitates the creation and refinement of complex algorithms like GA, through automation and innovative approaches in logistics.

Research limitations/implications

The study highlights limitations related to data quality, the dynamic nature of logistic operations, computational complexity and the need for generalization of results. It also points out the lack of research in business realities that demonstrate the effectiveness of combining the benefits of LLM and GA in practice.

Originality/value

This paper makes a significant contribution to the literature by demonstrating the capabilities of advanced technologies such as GA and LLM in 3PL logistics. It presents an innovative approach to optimizing logistic processes, offering perspectives for further innovations and automation in supply chain management. It also indicates new opportunities for 3PL companies in terms of improving operational and cost efficiency, emphasizing the importance of continuously seeking innovative solutions in the face of increasing market demands.

Details

Journal of Modelling in Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1746-5664

Keywords

Available. Open Access. Open Access
Article
Publication date: 14 October 2019

Rasha Kamal El-Deen El-Mallah, Alia Abd el Hamid Aref and Sherifa Sherif

The purpose of this paper is as follows: First, understanding the nature of the relationship between corporate adoption of the concept of societal responsibility [availability of…

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is as follows: First, understanding the nature of the relationship between corporate adoption of the concept of societal responsibility [availability of environmental awareness, clear vision of the impact of societal responsibility on financial performance, managers informing employees of the latest developments in societal responsibility programs, managers' response to their corporate social responsibility (CSR) proposals] in the form of an annual report that supports the success of the company's objectives, the company's management encourages employees to participate collectively in societal responsibility programs and to protect the environment from pollution in the petrochemical industry. Second, understand the nature of the relationship between the dimensions of corporate social responsibility concept (cultural, social, economic, ethical and legal) and protect the environment from pollution in the petrochemical industry. Third, the research also seeks to show the role of societal responsibility and its application in the petrochemical companies to protect the environment from pollution in The Governorate of Alexandria – Egypt, and come out with results and recommendations that could help protect the environment from the forms of environmental pollution resulting from the production processes of this industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The researcher has relied on each of the following approaches: Case study methodology is a research strategy aimed at solving a problem or facing a particular situation. It is based on preliminary hypotheses through full analysis of all data collected and recorded. Which depends on the study of a limited number of cases or vocabulary in-depth comprehensive study through the study of all or a large number of variables overlapping and interrelated and influential on the problem under consideration. Thus, it provides a deep and rich understanding of what is going on around the research and the processes that are related to it, and not only the external or apparent description of the situation or phenomenon; it cares about the total description and looks at the particles, in relation to the whole. Quantitative approach: by giving a numerical description indicating the size or size of the phenomenon or the degree of association with the phenomenon. Other phenomena. Accordingly, the role of the petrochemical companies in Alexandria Governorate, and the social responsibility programs carried out within the governorate in terms of importance, growth and requirements, and the most important characteristics and constraints and components and methods of work and developments have been described. Thus, the researcher can analyze the relationship between CSR and environmental protection from pollution in Alexandria Governorate.

Findings

There is paucity in the studies that dealt with the relationship between CSR and environmental protection against pollution in public organizations. There is agreement among the sample on the importance and feasibility of adopting the concept of social responsibility and placing it at the top of the top management concerns, especially in the field of petrochemical companies. With the need to take concrete implementation measures to support social responsibility programs aimed at serving the community among all stakeholders. The effective implementation of the mechanisms for the implementation of meaningful social responsibility programs requires fundamental changes in management practices, existing organizational structures and the quality of personnel working in the relevant departments, in general, and the social responsibility group, in particular, which may be difficult for political and economic reasons.

Research limitations/implications

Time: The study period was set from 2015 to 2017. Place: The study focuses on the petrochemical companies operating in Alexandria. Humanity: The study focuses on the employees of the petrochemical companies operating in Alexandria Governorate.

Practical implications

The adoption of social responsibility positively affects the protection of the environment from pollution, and this effect shows that the adoption of the concept of corporate social responsibility is influenced by the following factors: increasing the participation of workers with healthy environmental contributions to the productive process; increasing the companies' economic and social activities toward protecting the environment from pollution; increasing the capacity of companies to pay greater costs to preserve the environment; increasing the awareness of green consumers with the products it offers Companies; development of continuous internal work environment companies; and clearly defined strategy followed in social responsibility programs.

Social implications

The social responsibility of the public organizations derives their strength through, first, the keenness of these organizations to analyze the variables of the ethical dimension of social responsibility and their availability, which will lead the organizations to provide their services with the highest quality and sincerity. That this analysis (ethics of individuals) as training members of the social responsibility team to solve problems using brainstorming and provide employees with official data related to improving work (ethics of leadership), such as the identification of business objectives through the participation of managers with subordinates, and the punishment of workers who exhibit immoral behaviors (ethics of productive processes) as a decision-making process to ethical standards regardless of the costs involved. When there is an immoral behavior and managers are responsible for implementing the changes needed to reach the targeted outcomes), second, promote partnerships with other relevant sectors for community service.

Originality/value

According to the results of the previous studies and the applied study results, the researcher would like to submit a mechanism to the directors and heads of the boards of directors of the Egyptian petrochemical companies under study.

Details

Review of Economics and Political Science, vol. 8 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2356-9980

Keywords

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Article
Publication date: 7 February 2025

S.P. Sreenivas Padala and Anshul Goyal

This paper aims to enhance early-stage cost estimation in construction projects, a critical factor in project feasibility, funding, resource allocation and scheduling. Traditional…

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Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to enhance early-stage cost estimation in construction projects, a critical factor in project feasibility, funding, resource allocation and scheduling. Traditional cost estimation approaches suffer from limitations such as the absence of structured methodologies, assumptions of linear cost relationships, prolonged processes and expert judgment variations. To address these challenges, this study proposes a reliable cost prediction model based on artificial neural networks (ANNs) for building construction projects in India.

Design/methodology/approach

To develop cost prediction model, this study collected data from 377 building construction projects in India, encompassing 17 essential cost parameters. The methodology involves data preprocessing, constructing features and fine-tuning ANN hyperparameters meticulously to achieve optimal performance.

Findings

The research showcases effectiveness of cost prediction model, evident in significantly reduced mean square error values. ANN-based prediction model excels in handling nonlinear cost dependencies and diverse project complexities, making it a valuable tool for early-stage cost estimation.

Research limitations/implications

ANN-based cost prediction model is primarily designed for predicting costs associated with structural works of building projects.

Practical implications

The proposed solution offers stakeholders a robust data-driven decision-making tool during initial phases of construction projects. This can lead to more successful and economically viable outcomes.

Originality/value

This research examines the drawbacks of traditional cost estimation methods by presenting a data-driven approach leveraging machine learning. It significantly improves precision of early cost forecasts in construction projects while offering practical value to industry.

Details

Journal of Financial Management of Property and Construction, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1366-4387

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Article
Publication date: 5 January 2023

Sandeep Rangrao Desai and Mangalsing Narsing Sonare

The prediction of critical velocity at instability threshold for shell and tube heat exchangers is important to avoid failure of tubes as a result of flow-induced vibrations due…

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Abstract

Purpose

The prediction of critical velocity at instability threshold for shell and tube heat exchangers is important to avoid failure of tubes as a result of flow-induced vibrations due to water cross flow. The flow-induced vibration in finned tube heat exchangers is affected by various parameters such as fin height, fin pitch, fin material, tube array, pitch ratio, fin type, fluid velocity etc. In this paper, an experimental investigation of fluid elastic instability in shell and tube heat exchangers is carried out by subjecting normal square finned tube arrays of pitch ratio 1.79 to water cross flow.

Design/methodology/approach

The five tube arrays, namely plain array, two finned tube arrays with 3 fpi and 9 fpi fin density, and two finned tube arrays with 3 mm and 6 mm fin height are tested in the experimental test setup with water flow loop and vibration measurement system. The research objective is to evaluate the effect of fin density and fin height on the instability threshold. The critical velocity at instability threshold is determined to characterize the fluid elastic instability behavior of different tube arrays. The vortex shedding behavior of the tube arrays is also studied by determining Strouhal number corresponding to the small peaks before fluid elastic instability.

Findings

The fluid elastic instability behavior of the tube arrays was found to be the function of fin tube parameters. The experimental results indicate that an increase in fin density and fin height results in delaying the instability threshold for finned tube arrays. It is also observed that critical velocity at instability is increased for finned tube arrays compared to plain tube arrays of the same pitch ratio. The design modifications in the outer box have resulted in further reduction in the natural frequency. This enabled to reach clear instability for all the five-tube arrays.

Originality/value

The research data add the value to the present body of knowledge by knowing the effect of fin height and fin density on the fluid elastic instability threshold of normal square finned tube arrays subjected to water cross flow.

Details

Multidiscipline Modeling in Materials and Structures, vol. 19 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1573-6105

Keywords

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