bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Free convection flow of a conducting couple stress fluid in a porous medium
Authors: Shantha G. , Shanker Bandari 
Published: April 2010

PurposeThis paper aims to examine the unsteady flow of an incompressible, viscous, conducting couple stress fluid flow through a porous medium over an infinite plate that is started into motion in its own plane by an impulse. The presence of a uniform magnetic field in a direction perpendicular to the plate is assumed.Design/methodology/approachCasting the governing equations into matrix form, the authors use state space approach and Laplace transform technique to obtain the field variables. The inversion of Laplace transform is carried through the adoption of a numerical technique.FindingsTwo specific problems related to a heated plate and a plate under uniform heating are examined and the variation of temperature and velocity with respect to the couple stress parameter numerically is studied. Numerical results concerning velocity and temperature distribution are presented graphically.Originality/valueThe authors have attempted the problem in fluid dynamics through state space approach which is exploited with tremendous success in modern control theory but not enough in fluid dynamics.
On steady MHD flow and heat transfer past a rotating disk in a porous medium with ohmic heating and viscous dissipation
Authors: Sibanda P. , Makinde O.D. 
Published: April 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the hydromagnetic steady flow and heat transfer characteristics of an incompressible viscous electrically conducting fluid past a rotating disk in a porous medium with ohmic heating, Hall current and viscous dissipation are also investigated.Design/methodology/approachUsing appropriate similarity variables and boundary‐layer approximations, the fluid equations for continuity, momentum and energy balance governing the problem are formulated. These equations are solved numerically by using the most effective Newton‐Raphson shooting method along with fourth‐order Runge‐Kutta integration algorithm.FindingsIt was found that magnetic field retards the fluid motion due to the opposing Lorentz force generated by the magnetic field. Both the magnetic field and the Eckert number tend to enhance the heat transfer efficiency. The Hall parameter however reduces the heat transfer rate. In terms of the friction coefficient, the magnetic interaction parameter, the Hall parameter and the Eckert number all combine to increase the skin friction, while increasing the Darcy number (increasing permeability) reduces the skin friction so increasing the fluid velocity.Practical implicationsThis paper provides a very useful source of information for researchers on the subject of hydromagnetic flow in porous media.Originality/valueThis type of problem has potential to serve as a prototype for practical swirl problems, for example, axisymmetric flow in combustors.
Shape optimization of a flat channel with an array of discrete, flush‐mounted heat sources on one plate being cooled by forced convective water
Authors: Campo Antonio , Johnson Richard , Landon Mark D. , Cabezas‐Gómez Luben 
Published: April 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide a suitable linkage between a computational fluid dynamics code and a shape optimization code for the analysis of heat/fluid flow in forced convection channels normally used in the cooling of electronic equipment.Design/methodology/approachA parallel‐plate channel with a discrete array of five heat sources embedded in one plate with the other plate insulated constitutes the starting model. Using water as the coolant medium, the objective is to optimize the shape of the channel employing a computerized design loop. The two‐part optimization problem is constrained to allow only the unheated plate to deform, while maintaining the same inlet shape and observing a maximum pressure drop constraint.FindingsFirst, the results for the linearly deformed unheated plate show significant decrease in the plate temperatures of the heated plate, with the maximum plate temperature occurring slightly upstream of the outlet. Second, when the unheated plate is allowed to deform nonlinearly, a parabolic‐like shaped plate is achieved where the maximum plate temperature is further reduced, with a corresponding intensification in the local heat transfer coefficient. The effectiveness of the computerized design loop is demonstrated in complete detail.Originality/valueThis article offers a simple, harmonious technique for optimizing the shape of forced convection channels subjected to pre‐set design constraints.
Experimental and numerical investigation of isothermal flow in an idealized swirl combustor
Authors: Benim A.C. , Escudier M.P. , Nahavandi A. , Nickson A.K. , Syed K.J. , Joos F. 
Published: April 2010

PurposeThe main purpose of the paper is the validation of different modelling strategies for turbulent swirling flow of an incompressible fluid in an idealized swirl combustor.Design/methodology/approachExperiments have been performed and computations carried out for a water test rig, for a Reynolds number of 4,600 based on combustor inlet mean axial velocity and diameter. Two cases have been investigated, one low swirl and the other high swirl intensity. Measurements of time‐averaged velocity components and corresponding rms turbulence intensities were measured using laser Doppler anemometer, along radial traverses at different axial locations. In the three‐dimensional, unsteady computations, large eddy simulation (LES) and URANS (Unsteady Reynolds Averaged Navier‐Stokes Equations or Reynolds Averaged Numerical Simulations) RSMs (Reynolds‐stress models) are basically employed as modelling strategies for turbulence. To model subgrid‐scale turbulence for LES, the models due to Smagorinsky and Voke are used. No‐model LES and coarse‐grid direct numerical simulation computations are also performed for one of the cases.FindingsThe predictions are compared with the measurements and reveal that LES provided the best overall accuracy for all of the cases, whereas no significant difference between the Smagorinsky and Voke models are observed for the time‐averaged velocity components.Originality/valueThis paper provides additional valuable information on the performance of various modelling strategies for turbulent swirling flows.
Performance management in service operational settings: a selective literature examination
Authors: Yasin Mahmoud M. , Gomes Carlos F. 
Published: April 2010

PurposeThis paper aims to examine, the specific literature related to performance measurement in the service sector. In the process, it also aims to classify and examine innovative approaches and models utilized to measure performance in service operational settings. Based on this investigation, the paper seeks to identify relevant benchmarking implications.Design/methodology/approachA database of 141 peer‐reviewed publications, published between 1981 and early 2008, was utilized for the purpose of this paper. The published works included contributions from both practioners and scholars.FindingsThe International Journal of Productivity and Performance Management is found to be the leading journal in terms of contributions to performance measurement in service operational settings. It contributed 25 articles. The bulk of published work appeared in international journals. These contributions were mixed in nature. They included empirical, conceptual, case studies, literatures reviews and interviews. The focus of the articles examined was also mixed. These articles tended to emphasis operational, customer, strategic, supplier, and environmental aspects of service.Research limitations/implicationsBased on the findings of this paper, it is concluded that this area of research is in need of more future efforts aimed at solidifying theoretical constructs and practical applications.Practical implicationsFindings derived from this investigation have relevant benchmarking implications. In this context, understanding the different approaches to performance measurement as utilized in service organizations is critical to the efforts of these organizations' performance improvement efforts.Originality/valueUnderstanding the types and scopes of the different approaches and models utilized to measure performance in service operational settings is important in light of the growing significance of the service sector.
Analyzing the dynamics of the global construction industry: past, present and future
Authors: Razak Bin Ibrahim Abdul , Roy Matthew H. , Ahmed Zafar U. , Imtiaz Ghaffar 
Published: April 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to analyze the production processes utilized by the global construction industry.Design/methodology/approachThis paper discusses the history of the construction industry with a specific focus on the evolution of lean production systems (LPSs) that has a significant impact in reduction of waste in the light of operational performance. The paper proceeds through a comparison of the differences between construction and manufacturing processes.FindingsThe construction industry consumes large amounts of natural resources along with wastage due to inefficient and improper utilization. Numerous factors contribute to this poor performance, but an efficient means of identification and reduction of waste has always been left aside. A fully integrated LPS is a way to eliminate much waste in the construction process.Originality/valueThis paper has developed an instrument to measure degree of integration of LPS principles in the construction industry that can be used globally. It can be used as a checklist for what to aim at when trying to implement LPS in construction.
Mitigating resisting forces to achieve the collaboration‐enabled supply chain
Authors: Fawcett Stanley E. , Magnan Gregory M. , Fawcett Amydee M. 
Published: April 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to address how companies mitigate existing forces to achieve the collaboration enabled supply chain (SC).Design/methodology/approachSeven key theories were used to provide insight into the theoretical framework for the creation of the collaboration‐enabled SC: contingency theory, the resource‐based view of the firm, the relational view of the firm, force field theory, constituency‐based theory, social dilemma theory, and resource‐advantage theory. An exploratory cross‐sectional survey was conducted at two different points in time – a six‐year period in between. The survey targeted three different functional areas – logistics, manufacturing, and sourcing – to compare and contrast functional perceptions of barriers and bridges to collaboration.FindingsCompanies are beginning to pursue greater collaboration, however, managers are often stymied in their pursuit of collaborative business models. The data suggest that the challenge is not the existence of a single barrier to collaboration, but one of accumulation. As the many resistors reinforce each other, the change needed to increase collaboration is avoided. To overcome these challenges, the findings suggest that a comprehensive and carefully executed collaboration strategy is needed to help a company profitably deliver high levels of customer satisfaction. Those companies that succeed achieve substantial, documentable benefits.Practical implicationsThe findings reveal that developing a collaboration‐enabled business model is very difficult. Therefore, managers must carefully evaluate their companies' motivation and readiness to pursue a collaboration‐enabled SC, consider whether they can generate momentum for sustained change, and ascertain whether they can persist when benefits are slow to emerge.Originality/valueThis study is both longitudinal and cross‐functional and leads to a better understanding of how to manage, change, and create a collaborative decision‐making environment.
Sustainability in higher education in the Asia‐Pacific: developments, challenges, and prospects
Authors: Ryan Alexandra , Tilbury Daniella , Blaze Corcoran Peter , Abe Osamu , Nomura Ko 
Published: April 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the contributions of the Asia‐Pacific region to leading practice in sustainability in higher education (HE), as prelude and orientation to this special issue collection from different countries and regions.Design/methodology/approachThis is a critical review that includes international and regional policy contexts in sustainability and “education for sustainable development” (ESD), whilst exploring the trajectories of key initiatives across the region and considering the broader context of sustainability innovation within the HE sector.FindingsThe Asia‐Pacific region offers many creative initiatives and shows considerable progress in ESD and in understanding the learning dimensions of sustainability. At the same time, it mirrors global trends in that further work is needed to promote systemic change in educational arenas, particularly in terms of strategic integration within HE institutions. The Asia‐Pacific contributions to this collection demonstrate the need to harness national policy, to develop local and regional initiatives and to work effectively towards more profound change in HE curricula and through collaboration with external communities and stakeholders.Originality/valueThis is a distinctive collection of new initiatives from the Asia‐Pacific, which compensates for the comparative lack of dissemination in this area. There is considerable sustainability innovation emerging in this region which shows leading‐edge responses from within the HE sector on a number of key challenges and issues.
The Pacific way: sustainability in higher education in the South Pacific Island nations
Authors: Blaze Corcoran Peter , Chacko Koshy Kanayathu 
Published: April 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to create an area profile of significant activity and possibility in higher education for sustainable development (ESD) in the island nations of the South Pacific Ocean.Design/methodology/approachThis is a descriptive research paper on philosophy, policy, and practice according to a methodology of categorical analysis by developments, challenges, and prospects. The focus is on higher education institutions, particularly the University of the South Pacific, the regional university of 12 Island nations in Oceania. The developments and prospects are contextualized, however, in the larger regional Pacific Education for Sustainable Development Framework and the Action Plan for Sustainable Development in the Pacific Islands 2008‐2014. Academic programs, policy statements, and education projects are analyzed.FindingsSouth Pacific universities possess rich missions that valorize traditional knowledge and culture. The region also has a sophisticated policy environment for sustainability. These factors create many opportunities for sustainability in higher education. Nevertheless, enormous challenges of distance, funding, cultural traditions, globalisation, and adaptation to the devastating effects of climate destabilisation make progress difficult. Successes and promising prospects are described, including a new major effort to mainstream higher ESD by creating a Pacific Network of Island Universities (the NIU Project), which will reach 13 nations, including Papua New Guinea.Originality/valueLittle analysis of sustainability in higher education has been done in this geographical area. The categorical approach of this paper will provide researchers with findings appropriate to several endeavors, including charting a way forward in sustainability in higher education in the South Pacific Island nations. South Pacific initiatives arising from the unique nature of island geography and tradition could illuminate for others what is called the “Pacific Way.” Comparative analysis to mainland nations in the Asia‐Pacific region may also prove useful to researchers and practitioners.
Higher education for sustainable development in China
Authors: Niu Dongjie , Jiang Dahe , Li Fengting 
Published: April 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to analyse the significance of developments across Chinese higher education in the field of education and learning for sustainable development (SD) and to assess the relative impact of these initiatives.Design/methodology/approachThis is a review of policy and practice to examine developments, challenges, and prospects for education for sustainable development (ESD) in higher education in China. Selected educational and operational activities in different universities are presented for analysis and contextualized in relation to the aims of Agenda 21 in China and the broader ESD movement.FindingsKey barriers for the balance and promotion of ESD in higher education are identified, with particular focus on regional differences in this vast developing nation, and the need for broader educational approaches across academic disciplines. Teaching about SD has been integrated into technical fields, especially at universities in major cities, and research has been undertaken to develop economically effective and environmentally friendly innovations. However, resources and capacity are still very limited, given the ambitions associated with SD in China. National and international networks and collaborations must be promoted, and curricula and research need to be reoriented, to progress education and change for SD in Chinese higher education.Originality/valueLittle analysis has taken place regarding the progress of ESD in higher education in China. This paper provides an initial survey of leading developments and an assessment of the relative success to date in this field, for comparison with progress in other regions and countries. The identification of challenges faced by China with regard to sustainability and economic development should help to contextualize efforts towards sustainability innovation in higher education. The paper considers the rapid economic, ecological and social change being experienced in China and the substantial challenges of scale and localization involved in its SD initiatives.
Sustainability of higher education institutions in Taiwan
Authors: Jenny Su H. , Chang Tzu‐chau 
Published: April 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide the rationale and context for recent national policy and funded initiatives to support sustainability developments within higher education in Taiwan, including practical and educational aspects. Concrete examples and specific outcomes are reviewed, to produce a profile across the higher education sector and its diverse range of institutions.Design/methodology/approachThe analysis contained here considers the main policy developments, practical challenges, and future prospects for sustainable development in Taiwanese higher education. The government initiated and funded a national project that connects education and practice for sustainability, the Taiwan Sustainable Campus Program (TSCP), which is profiled in this paper.FindingsIn 2009, more than 507 (12 percent) of all institutions have been funded in the TSCP and more than 50 percent of the smallest administrative units in Taiwan now have at least one sustainable campus in the district. Institutions in the program have generated hundreds of teaching modules for various subjects, disseminated sustainability thinking effectively within neighboring communities, and worked extensively at “grass‐roots” level with local residents to build more sustainable societies. Themed research has been developed to meet institutional needs for technical advancement to improve the practice of sustainable development.Practical implicationsIt is hoped that the execution of TSCP will serve as a model for educators and governmental officials, to inform national efforts to promote different methods of sustainability practice and education in different national and social contexts.Originality/valueThe success of the TSCP design and implementation mechanisms is evident in the rapid growth in the number of institutions taking part over a short period of time. The level of voluntary and productive participation involved suggests that targeted funding for original approaches to connect sustainability practice and education can be an extremely effective vehicle to promote sustainability in higher education. Recognizing the vigorous competition presently affecting universities, mostly concerning academic publications or revenue for maintaining operations, closer ties with programs and incentives from other governmental agencies, to support research or renovation activities, should help TSCP to become an even more sustainable and productive endeavour.
Examining e‐travel sites: an empirical study in Taiwan
Authors: Lin Ching‐Torng 
Published: April 2010

PurposeFor the internet to realise its full marketing potential, travel agencies need a well‐designed e‐travel site. Yet the attributes that affect customers' perceptions leading to acceptance of e‐travel sites are still unclear. This study seeks to focus on why users accept or reject e‐travel sites and how users' acceptance is affected by three widely recognised features of sites – relevant information content, information quality, and functionality needs service.Design/methodology/approachThe study analysed a survey of 242 users of Taiwanese e‐travel sites to test the hypothesised expanded technology acceptance model.FindingsThe empirical results indicate that the information content, information quality and functionality service of e‐travel sites strongly determine the perceived ease of use. Relevant information content and information quality also strongly determine perceived usefulness, which in turn leads to the behavioural intention to use e‐travel sites.Originality/valueThe findings of the study suggest that web site information must be sufficiently provided, quickly expanded and constantly updated to maintain correct and current content to meet users' information needs as well as an appropriate assistance function to provide good levels of web‐based customer service. These attributes should satisfy visitors, making them likely to revisit e‐travel sites.