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1 – 10 of 61
Article
Publication date: 18 June 2024

Arooj Tanveer, Sami Ul Haq, Muhammad Bilal Ashraf, Muhammad Usman Ashraf and R. Nawaz

This study aims to numerically investigate heat transport in a trapezoidal cavity using hybrid nanoparticles (Ag-$Al_2O_3$). Unlike previous studies, this one covers…

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Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to numerically investigate heat transport in a trapezoidal cavity using hybrid nanoparticles (Ag-$Al_2O_3$). Unlike previous studies, this one covers magnetohydrodynamics, joule heating with viscous dissipation, heat absorption and generation. The left and right sides of the chasm are frigid. The upper wall heats, whereas the bottom wall remains adiabatic.

Design/methodology/approach

After reducing the system of dimensional equations to dimensionless equations, the authors use the Galerkin finite element method to solve them numerically. Geometric parameters affect heating efficiency; thus, the authors use flow metrics such as the Reynold number Re, magnetic parameter M, volume fraction coefficient, heat absorption and Eckert number Ec. The authors use the finite volume method to solve the governing equations after converting them to dimensionless form. The authors also try the artificial neural network method to predict the innovative cavity’s heat response in future scenarios. Transition state charts, regression analysis, MSE and error histograms accelerate, smooth and accurately converge solutions.

Findings

As the magnetic parameter and Eckert number increase, the enclosure emits more heat. As Reynold and volume fraction coefficients rise, the Nusselt number falls. It rose as magnetic, Eckert and heat absorption characteristics increased. The average Nusselt number rises with Reynolds and volume fraction coefficients. The magnetic, Eckert and heat absorption characteristics have inverse values.

Originality/value

This study numerically investigates heat transport in a trapezoidal cavity using hybrid nanoparticles (Ag-$Al_2O_3$). Unlike previous studies, this one covers MHD, joule heating with viscous dissipation, heat absorption and generation. The left and right sides of the chasm are frigid. The upper wall heats, whereas the bottom wall remains adiabatic.

Details

International Journal of Numerical Methods for Heat & Fluid Flow, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0961-5539

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 30 March 2022

Muhammad Ashraf Fauzi

This study aims to review relevant studies concerning consumer purchase of halal-certified products. A total of 35 studies related to the consumer purchasing behavior of…

1660

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to review relevant studies concerning consumer purchase of halal-certified products. A total of 35 studies related to the consumer purchasing behavior of halal-certified products in top-tier journals have been identified according to the recommended systematic literature review methodology.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature review approach was implemented to examine, summarize and finally interpret the relevant research stream pertaining to consumer purchase of halal-certified products.

Findings

There are five research streams extracted from this systematic review, halal study context, theories adapted, covariance-based-structural equation modeling (SEM) vs partial least square-SEM, Muslim vs nonMuslim consumer and role of religiosity. Despite the growing interest in the quantitative approach in consumer purchase behavior in halal-certified products, scholars in halal consumer studies must have a greater extent of work. These include incorporating diverse theories in the framework, an advanced SEM approach, and relevant determinants to capture consumer purchasing of halal-certified products in the highly anticipated and profitable Muslim market.

Research limitations/implications

Findings would help researchers in halal studies to consider and contemplate critical issues, according to the research stream presented in this review.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first review of quantitative studies on consumer purchases of halal-certified products.

Details

Journal of Islamic Marketing, vol. 14 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1759-0833

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 18 August 2022

Hassan Ashraf, Alishbah Ali, Riza Yosia Sunindijo, Ahsen Maqsoom, Shoeb Ahmed Memon and Muhammad Usman Hassan

This research aims to examine the influence of workers' identification with their supervisors on safety behaviour in construction projects.

Abstract

Purpose

This research aims to examine the influence of workers' identification with their supervisors on safety behaviour in construction projects.

Design/methodology/approach

Employing the job demands–resources theory, this research tested the relationships among relational identification as a personal resource, respectful engagement as a job resource, employee safety voice as a positive work behaviour and safety behaviour as the outcome. Partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) was used to analyse 120 quantitative data collected using a questionnaire survey.

Findings

Relational identification, which reflects workers' identification with their supervisors, is a significant predictor of safety behaviour. Furthermore, respectful engagement and employee safety voice sequentially mediate the relationship between relational identification and safety behaviour.

Research limitations/implications

The internalisation of safety norms, values and practices in construction projects is contingent on the identification of workers with their supervisors.

Originality/value

Safety behaviour of workers is a significant predictor of safety performance in construction projects. Research on numerous antecedents of safety behaviour points out that leadership is a significant predictor of construction workers' safe behaviour. Contributing to research on construction safety leadership, this research found that leader-subordinate relationship is key to make construction workers more psychologically ready to internalise the importance of safety behaviours at work.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 30 no. 10
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 23 July 2020

Ashraf Yahya, Syed M. Usman Ali and Muhammad Farhan Khan

Multilevel inverter (MLI) is an established design approach for inverter applications in medium-voltage and high-voltage range of applications. An asymmetric design synthesizes…

Abstract

Purpose

Multilevel inverter (MLI) is an established design approach for inverter applications in medium-voltage and high-voltage range of applications. An asymmetric design synthesizes multiple DC input voltage sources of unequal magnitudes to generate a high-quality staircase sinewave comprising a large number of steps or levels. However, the implications of using sources of unequal magnitudes results in the requirements of a large variety of inverter switches and higher magnitudes of the total blocking voltage (TBV) rating of the inverter, which increase the cost. The purpose of this study is to present a solution based on algorithms for establishing DC source magnitudes and other design parameters.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach used in this study is to develop algorithms that bring an asymmetric cascaded MLI (ACMLI) design close to symmetric design. This approach then reduces the variety of switch ratings and minimizes the TBV of the inverter. Thus, the benefits of both asymmetric design (generation of a large number of voltage levels in the output waveform) and symmetric design (modularity) are achieved. The proposed algorithms can be applied to a number of ACMLI topologies, including classical cascaded H-bridge (CHB). The effectiveness of the proposed algorithms is validated by simulation in Matlab-Simulink and experimental setup.

Findings

Two new algorithms are proposed that reduce the number of variety of switches to just three. The variety can further be reduced to two under a specified condition. The algorithms are compared with the existing ones, and the results are promising in minimizing the TBV rating of the inverter, which results in cost reduction as well. For a specific case of four CHBs, the proposed Algorithm-1 produced 27% and Algorithm-2 produced 53% higher levels. Moreover, the presented algorithms produced minimum values of the TBV and resulted in minimum cost of inverter.

Originality/value

The proposed algorithms are novel in structure and have achieved the targeted values of minimized switch variety and reduced TBV ratings. Due to less variety, the inverter achieves a near symmetric design, which enables to attain the added advantages of modularity and reduced difference of power sharing among the DC sources.

Details

COMPEL - The international journal for computation and mathematics in electrical and electronic engineering , vol. 39 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0332-1649

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 6 June 2024

Muhammad Ashraf Fauzi, Noor Saadiah Mohd Ali, Nazirah Mat Russ, Fazeeda Mohamad, Mohamed Battour and Nor Nadiha Mohd Zaki

This study aims to evaluate the knowledge structure of halal certification in food and beverages. The growth of the Muslim population and the expanding economic activities among…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate the knowledge structure of halal certification in food and beverages. The growth of the Muslim population and the expanding economic activities among the Muslim community have necessitated extensive and comprehensive halal certification, particularly in food and beverage products.

Design/methodology/approach

Through a science mapping approach, this study explores the knowledge structure based on past publications in food and beverages and its association with halal certification, logos and brands. Applying bibliographic coupling and co-word analysis, the present and future trends of halal certification in food and beverages are explored by presenting a network visualization to present the underlying themes and research streams.

Findings

The main finding from recent and emerging themes shows that the pivotal perspective is increasing consumers’ knowledge and awareness of halal-certified food products. Future trends stemming from the co-word analysis suggest the importance of exploring consumer halal food product determinants.

Originality/value

This study is relevant to stakeholders, scholars and practitioners, particularly in disseminating information and voice on the importance of halal-certified food products that are recognized as having better quality and contributing to environmental sustainability.

Details

Journal of Islamic Marketing, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1759-0833

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 2 June 2022

Sadia Aziz, Muhammad Abdullah Khan Niazi and Usman Ghani

This study aims to empirically examine the knowledge, social and religious factors effecting the intention to receive COVID-19 vaccination while considering the mediating role of…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to empirically examine the knowledge, social and religious factors effecting the intention to receive COVID-19 vaccination while considering the mediating role of attitude towards COVID-19 vaccination. The research explores how the Islamic ideologies shape Muslims’ knowledge, social and religious beliefs towards COVID-19 vaccination acceptance or refusal.

Design/methodology/approach

Theoretically, the study is based on the functional theory of attitudes. The model of the study is comprised of nine variables explaining the attitude and intention towards COVID-19 vaccination. Among nine variables, perceived Islamic religiosity, perceived behavioural control and Halal consciousness among Muslims are explained through the value-expressive function of attitude. Furthermore, the perceived risk of COVID-19, the perceived side effect of COVID-19 vaccination and the perceived efficacy of COVID-19 vaccination are considered in the model based on the utility function of attitude. Moreover, social influence for COVID vaccination, subjective norms and group conformity are abstracted from the social-adjustive function of attitude. This study used a quantitative survey research method to test the hypotheses. A total of 1,000 questionnaires were distributed to non-vaccinated Muslim respondents from five cities in Pakistan. The structural equation modelling (SEM) technique was used to test the relationship among the variables in the proposed model. The partial least square-SEM method explained the variances in the dependent variables. Moreover, to test the structure of data, different statistical tests, including exploratory factor analysis (EFA), factor loadings and average variance extracted, were used with the help of Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and analysis of a moment structures (AMOS) 23.0 version.

Findings

Results for direct effect showed a significant negative effect of Islamic religiosity, perceived behavioural control, halal consciousness, perceived side effect of COVID-19 vaccination, social influence, subjective norm and group conformity on attitude towards COVID-19 vaccination. In contrast, insignificant results showed no relationship of perceived risk from COVID-19 infection and perceived efficacy of COVID-19 vaccination with attitude towards COVID-19 vaccination. Results for mediating effect showed the significant negative mediating effect of attitude towards COVID-19 vaccination between Islamic religiosity, perceived behavioural control, halal consciousness, perceived side effect, social influence, subjective norm, group conformity and intention to receive COVID-19 vaccination. While results showed the insignificant mediation of attitude towards COVID-19 between perceived risk from COVID-19 infection, perceived efficacy of COVID-19 vaccination and intention to receive COVID-19 vaccination.

Research limitations/implications

Further studies are required to compare the attitude and intention among the temporary refusal group (those who will consider vaccination the future) and the permanent refusal group (those who will not consider vaccination the future). Comparing Muslim and non-Muslim groups can also explain differences in attitude and intention towards COVID-19 vaccination.

Originality/value

The area of acceptance and refusal of COVID-19 vaccination has been given limited attention in academic literature. Theoretically, this research has proposed a well-defined model to explain the attitude of Muslims towards COVID-19 vaccination. This model can helpf predict the attitude and intentions of Muslims towards vaccination or medicines. Moreover, this research is a unique contribution for the vaccination brands to consider the discussed factors before launching their brand in Muslim countries.

Details

Journal of Islamic Marketing, vol. 14 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1759-0833

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 18 September 2020

Rami Ibrahim A. Salem, Ernest Ezeani, Ali M. Gerged, Muhammad Usman and Rateb Mohammmad Alqatamin

This study aims to examine the influence of the quality of voluntary disclosure (QVD) on earnings management (EM) amongst a sample of commercial banks in the Middle East and North…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to examine the influence of the quality of voluntary disclosure (QVD) on earnings management (EM) amongst a sample of commercial banks in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a sample of 1,060 bank-year observations for the period 2006–2015, this paper developed a three-dimensional framework to measure the QVD, which considers the quantity, spread and usefulness of the information. Furthermore, this study examines the QVD-EM nexus using an ordinary least squares regression model. This technique is supplemented with conducting an instrumental variable regression model and a two-stage least squares model to overcome the potential occurrence of endogeneity problems.

Findings

The findings suggest that QVD is negatively attributed to EM in the context of MENA banks. The findings also confirm that the quality of financial reporting is enhanced by QVD dimensions that were considered in the framework, leading banks to less engagement in EM practices. In contrast, the influence of the quantity dimension (level) of the disclosed information has an insignificant impact on EM, while the spread and usefulness dimensions of VD are negatively and significantly associated with EM in the region.

Research limitations/implications

Although the results are robust to various measurements and to the possible occurrence of endogeneity problems, there are a few limitations should be acknowledged, which provides opportunities for future research. For example, the sample size is relatively small due to data accessibility issues. Likewise, the findings of the research might not be appropriate for non-financial sectors. These limitations provide a good opportunity for future studies to expand on the research by covering other developing economies and, thereby, enriching the understanding offered by this study.

Practical implications

This study offers several implications for bank managers, academics and policymakers. Firstly, it may help managers to appreciate the function and the importance of QVD in mitigating EM. Secondly, for academics, the study provides suggestive evidence on the impact of QVD on EM; however, future research may need to consider the role of morality and ethical behaviour across different environments in reducing excessive risk-taking and constraining earnings manipulation. Finally, it provides insights for policymakers and regulators to develop a framework or guidance that can help banks in providing high-QVD in the context of developing economies.

Originality/value

The study distinctively develops an innovative measurement for QVD using a new multi-dimensional model. This paper also bring new evidence on QVD complexity and its impact on EM practice from an under-researched developing context, namely, the MENA region.

Details

International Journal of Accounting & Information Management, vol. 29 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1834-7649

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 March 2022

Muhammad Usman Shahid, Muhammad Jamaluddin Thaheem and Husnain Arshad

The construction industry struggles in environmental and economic performance due to waste generation. Several studies have measured this waste in the construction industry of…

1061

Abstract

Purpose

The construction industry struggles in environmental and economic performance due to waste generation. Several studies have measured this waste in the construction industry of developing countries like India, Brazil, China, Nigeria and Iran, and proposed strategies to enhance the overall efficiency. But no such work exists in Pakistan's context. The construction industry of Pakistan contributes significantly to the country's gross domestic product (GDP). And with several mega projects in progress to overcome the energy crises and improve the infrastructure of the country, the absence of proper waste management policies and plans calls for empirical research. Therefore, this study quantifies and benchmarks material waste in the local context, its impact on project cost and the effect of multiple subcontracting arrangements on waste generation. It also proposes a conceptual waste management plan (WMP) for local conditions which can be generalized for developing countries.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses a mixed research approach by leveraging Saunders's research onion model. To benchmark the current wastage practices, quantitative data of material waste in the Pakistani construction industry are gathered through document review of accounting systems, inventory and payment records of 40 completed building projects. Using the data, the waste rate of different materials is measured along with their impact on cost. Additionally, the role of subcontracting arrangements in waste generation is also investigated. Also, semi-structured interviews are conducted with project managers of high- and low-performing construction organizations to propose a conceptual WMP for the local industry and developing countries.

Findings

The highest wasteful materials by quantity are wood, sand and concrete blocks, and those by cost are wood, bricks and steel. By quantity, 123% more material was used on average than the actual productive work. Also, the labor only (L-O) subcontracting arrangement causes maximum waste. Moreover, the difference between the highest (155%) and lowest wasting company (104%) is 51%, highlighting the proactive and resistive waste management culture and approach by the worst- and best-performing companies. Further, the impact of waste quantities is more than 2% of the project cost. Finally, a conceptual model consisting of measures at the project, industry and national levels is also proposed as a guide for developing countries.

Practical implications

The findings of this benchmarking study can help improve the project planning, execution and monitoring, and control practices by providing a better understanding of the material waste potential. This will help economize the construction industry and improve its sustainability.

Originality/value

This is the first benchmarking study that quantitatively measures material waste in the construction industry of Pakistan. It highlights that costly as well as sustainability-implicating materials are frequently wasted in the local construction projects. Also, this study correlates the wastage with subcontracting arrangements. Additionally, an original conceptual WMP is proposed that could help the industry improve its performance. The findings could help the construction professionals identify the loopholes in their material management practices and not only save money but also ensure better sustainability.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 30 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 11 November 2022

Nhat Tan Nguyen, Qingyu Zhang, Shafique Ur Rehman, Muhammad Usman and Dario Natale Palmucci

Organic food consumption decreases the risk of becoming obese or overweight. This study intends to see the influence of customer perceived value, COVID-19 fear, food neophobia…

Abstract

Purpose

Organic food consumption decreases the risk of becoming obese or overweight. This study intends to see the influence of customer perceived value, COVID-19 fear, food neophobia, effort and natural content on the intention to purchase organic food (IPOF) that leads to the actual purchase of organic food (APOF). Moreover, organic food availability is a moderator between IPOF and APOF.

Design/methodology/approach

PLS-SEM is used for hypothesis testing. A purposive sampling technique was followed to gather data from organic food consumers in Lahore, Gujranwala and Islamabad and a total of 479 questionnaires were part of the analysis.

Findings

The outcomes show that customer perceived value, effort and natural content is positively related to IPOF. Despite this, COVID-19 fear and food neophobia are negatively associated with IPOF. IPOF and organic food availability are positively related to APOF. Finally, organic food availability significantly moderated between IPOF and APOF.

Practical implications

This study outcome reveals that companies of organic food can recognize customer perceived value, COVID-19 fear, food neophobia, effort, natural content and organic food availability in their decision-making if they determine the actual purchase of organic food. This study offers a valuable policy to companies of organic food to enhance customer’s behavior in purchasing organic food in Pakistan. Besides, practitioners and academicians can benefit from this study finding.

Originality/value

This initial research integrates customer perceived value, COVID-19 fear, food neophobia, effort, natural content, IPOF and organic food availability to determine APOF in the COVID-19 pandemic. Moreover, consumption value theory is followed to develop the framework.

Details

British Food Journal, vol. 125 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0007-070X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 17 February 2022

Muhammad Umair, Muhammad Usman Javaid, Yasir Nawab, Madeha Jabbar, Shagufta Riaz, Hafiz Affan Abid and Khubab Shaker

This paper aims to investigate the influence of picking sequence, weave design and weft yarn material on the thermal conductivity of the woven fabrics.

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the influence of picking sequence, weave design and weft yarn material on the thermal conductivity of the woven fabrics.

Design/methodology/approach

This work includes the development of 36 woven samples with two weave designs (1/1 plain and 3/1 twill), three picking sequences (single, double and three pick insertion) and six different weft yarn materials (cotton, polyester having 48 filaments, polyester with 144 filaments, spun coolmax having Lycra in core and coolmax in sheath, filament coolmax and polypropylene). The thermal conductivity was measured using ALAMBETA tester.

Findings

The results showed that weft yarn material, weave design and picking sequence have a meaningful impact on the thermal conductivity of woven fabric. The value of thermal conductivity was lowest for the fabrics with three pick insertion and 3/1 twill weave in all weft yarn materials.

Research limitations/implications

Plain woven fabric with single pick insertion is feasible for summer wear to enhance the comfort of wearer. By changing the warp yarn grouping and material, improved thermal conductivity/resistance can also be achieved.

Originality/value

The authors have studied the combined effect of different weft yarn materials with different picking sequences and different weave designs on thermal conductivity of the woven fabrics.

Details

Research Journal of Textile and Apparel, vol. 27 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1560-6074

Keywords

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