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The purpose of this paper is to provide a comprehensive historical review of the role of the Federal Reserve in retail payments in the USA.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to provide a comprehensive historical review of the role of the Federal Reserve in retail payments in the USA.
Design/methodology/approach
It reviews the literature on the role of the Federal Reserve and assessments of its involvement.
Findings
In addition to its oversight and operational role, the Federal Reserve has conducted R&D and facilitated technology adoption. It has provided effective competition to the private sector without subsidies.
Research limitations/implications
The Federal Reserve has served the public interest and private networks have benefited from the “visible hand” of government.
Practical implications
Migration to electronic payments will likely change its role from an operator to setting standards for safety and security.
Originality/value
The historical review provides context against which the future strategy of the Federal Reserve may be assessed.
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Mahendra Gupta and Richard J. Palmer
After fifteen years of use by U.S. Federal government agencies, purchase cards are still caught in a debate between the drive to improve governmental efficiency and the need to…
Abstract
After fifteen years of use by U.S. Federal government agencies, purchase cards are still caught in a debate between the drive to improve governmental efficiency and the need to prudently manage and control spending of taxpayer resources. This paper gives decision makers facts by which to evaluate the purchase card experience to date by providing a brief history of legislative actions related to purchase cards, analyzing patterns of purchase card spending by Federal government agencies, estimating the potential size of the purchase card program, and identifying the costs and benefits of shifting low-value transactions to the purchase card. The paper concludes with recommendations for government action.
Jianlei Yi, Kunjian Jin, Haiying Qin and Yuhong Cui
An ideal method for predicting the fatigue life of spherical thrust elastomeric bearings has not been reported, thus far. This paper aims to present a method for predicting the…
Abstract
Purpose
An ideal method for predicting the fatigue life of spherical thrust elastomeric bearings has not been reported, thus far. This paper aims to present a method for predicting the fatigue life of laminated rubber spherical thrust elastomeric bearings.
Design/methodology/approach
First, the mechanical properties of standard rubber samples were tested; the axial stiffness, cocking stiffness, torsional stiffness and fatigue life of several full-size spherical thrust elastomeric bearings were tested. Then, the stiffness results were calculated using the neo-Hookean, Mooney–Rivlin and Yoeh models. Using a modified Mooney–Rivlin constitutive model, this paper proposes an improved method for fatigue life prediction, which considers the laminated characteristics of a spherical thrust elastomeric bearing and loads of multiple multi-axle conditions.
Findings
The Mooney–Rivlin model could accurately describe the stiffness characteristics of the spherical thrust elastomeric bearings. A comparative analysis of experimental results shows that the model can effectively predict the life of a spherical thrust elastomeric bearing within its range of use and the prediction error is within 20%.
Originality/value
The fatigue parameters of elastomeric bearings under multiaxial loads were fitted and corrected using experimental data and an accurate and effective multiaxial fatigue-life prediction expression was obtained. Finally, the software was redeveloped to improve the flexibility and efficiency of modeling and calculation.
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Golam Mortuja Sarkar, Suman Sarkar and Bikash Sahoo
This paper aims to theoretically and numerically investigate the steady two-dimensional (2D) Hiemenz flow with heat transfer of Reiner-Rivlin fluid over a linearly…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to theoretically and numerically investigate the steady two-dimensional (2D) Hiemenz flow with heat transfer of Reiner-Rivlin fluid over a linearly stretching/shrinking sheet.
Design/methodology/approach
The Navier–Stokes equations are transformed into self-similar equations using appropriate similarity transformations and then solved numerically by using shooting technique. A simple but effective mathematical analysis has been used to prove the existence of a solution for stretching case (λ> 0). Moreover, an attempt has been laid to carry the asymptotic solution behavior for large stretching. The obtained asymptotic solutions are compared with direct numerical solutions, and the comparison is quite remarkable.
Findings
It is observed that the self-similar equations exhibit dual solutions within the range [λc, −1] of shrinking parameter λ, where λc is the turning point from where the dual solutions bifurcate. Unique solution is found for all stretching case (λ > 0). It is noticed that the effects of cross-viscous parameter L and shrinking parameter λ on velocity and thermal fields show opposite character in the dual solution branches. Thus, a linear temporal stability analysis is performed to determine the basic feasible solution. The stability analysis is based on the sign of the smallest eigenvalue, where positive or negative sign leading to a stable or unstable solution. The stability analysis reveals that the first solution is stable that describes the main flow. Increase in cross-viscous parameter L resulting in a significant increment in skin friction coefficient, local Nusselt number and dual solutions domain.
Originality/value
This work’s originality is to examine the combined effects of cross-viscous parameter and stretching/shrinking parameter on skin friction coefficient, local Nusselt number, velocity and temperature profiles of Hiemenz flow over a stretching/shrinking sheet. Although many studies on viscous fluid and nanofluid have been investigated in this field, there are still limited discoveries on non-Newtonian fluids. The obtained results can be used as a benchmark for future studies of higher-grade non-Newtonian flows with several physical aspects. All the generated results are claimed to be novel and have not been published elsewhere.
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A previously presented finite element shell formulation is extended to the application of large strains. The finite elements are those based on the concept of ‘the degenerated…
Abstract
A previously presented finite element shell formulation is extended to the application of large strains. The finite elements are those based on the concept of ‘the degenerated solids’, which are widely used in non‐linear finite element programs. The constitutive equation of hyperelastic incompressible material is adopted and specialized to the Mooney‐Rivlin law. The additional state variable, the hydrostatic pressure, which occurs for incompressible materials, is eliminated on element level using the plane stress condition. Attention is drawn to the efficient calculation of the element matrices by applying a layer concept. The effectiveness of the proposed total Lagrangian formulation is demonstrated in a number of example problems.
Stoyan Stoyanov, Tim Tilford, Farid Amalou, Scott Cargill, Chris Bailey and Marc Desmulliez
Nano‐imprint forming (NIF) is a manufacturing technology capable of achieving high resolution, low‐cost and high‐throughput fabrication of fine nano‐scale structures and patterns…
Abstract
Purpose
Nano‐imprint forming (NIF) is a manufacturing technology capable of achieving high resolution, low‐cost and high‐throughput fabrication of fine nano‐scale structures and patterns. The purpose of this paper is to use modelling technologies to simulate key process steps associated with the formation of patterns with sub‐micrometer dimensions and use the results to define design rules for optimal imprint forming process.
Design/methodology/approach
The effect of a number of process and pattern‐related parameters on the quality of the fabricated nano‐structures is studied using non‐linear finite element analysis. The deformation process of the formable material during the mould pressing step is modelled using contact analysis with large deformations and temperature dependent hyperelastic material behaviour. Finite element analysis with contact interfaces between the mould and the formable material is utilised to study the formation of mechanical, thermal and friction stresses in the pattern.
Findings
The imprint pressure, temperature and the aspect ratio of grooves which define the pattern have significant effect on the quality of the formed structures. The optimal imprint pressure for the studied PMMA is identified. It is found that the degree of the mould pattern fulfilment as function of the imprint pressure is non‐linear. Critical values for thermal mismatch difference in the CTE between the mould and the substrate causing thermally induced stresses during cooling stage are evaluated. Regions of high stresses in the pattern are also identified.
Originality/value
Design rules for minimising the risk of defects such as cracks and shape imperfections commonly observed in NIF‐fabricated nano‐structures are presented. The modelling approach can be used to provide insights into the optimal imprint process control. This can help to establish further the technology as a viable route for fabrication of nano‐scale structures and patterns.
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Manuel Julio García Ruíz and Leidy Yarime Suárez González
This work presents a review of the application of hyperelastic models to the analysis of fabrics using finite element analysis (FEA).
Abstract
Purpose
This work presents a review of the application of hyperelastic models to the analysis of fabrics using finite element analysis (FEA).
Design/methodology/approach
In general, a combination of uniaxial tension (compression), biaxial tension, and simple shear is required for the characterization of a hyperelastic material. However, the use of these deformation tests to obtain the mechanical properties of a fabric may be complicated and also expensive. A methodology for characterizing the fabric employing a different experimental test is presented. The methodology consists of a comparison of the results of the fabric characterization with only a tensile test and the combination of shear, biaxial, and tension experimental tests by using FEA.
Findings
Numerical results of the fabric behavior contribute to estimate the effects of experimental limitations in the material characterization and to select the best fit material model to modeling fabrics. Finally, a comparison of hyperelastic material models is illustrated through an example of a rigid body in contact with a hyperelastic fabric in 3D.
Originality/value
Hyperelastic models are used to characterize textile materials.
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Emre Burak Ekmekcioglu, Hamidah Nabawanuka, Yussif Mohammed Alhassan, John Yaw Akparep and Cansu Ergenç
This paper aims to examine how organizational practices such as climate for conflict management (CCM) and high involvement work practices (HIWPs) reduce the negative consequences…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to examine how organizational practices such as climate for conflict management (CCM) and high involvement work practices (HIWPs) reduce the negative consequences of workplace bullying (WPB) on work-related depression (WRD).
Design/methodology/approach
Data were collected from 468 full-time employees working in the financial sector in Türkiye by applying a student-recruited sampling strategy. The aforesaid relationships were assessed using SPSS AMOS 29.
Findings
The results indicated that WPB leads to WRD; however, this effect is alleviated by employee perceptions of strong CCM and the administration of HIWPs in workplace settings.
Research limitations/implications
Collecting data from a single source poses the risks of self-report data bias; however, in the future, data may be collected from multiple sources to lessen this potential threat. The study was a cross-sectional study, which makes it hard to make casual inferences; longitudinal data would be more beneficial to establish casual associations.
Practical implications
Business owners and managers can draw from the study results to create a work environment perceived by employees to be fair when dealing with conflicts and the negative vices of bullying in workplaces. Also, organizations may administer practices that empower employees’ confidence and competence to deal with negative persecution in organizations.
Originality/value
Few studies, if any, have focused on examining the moderating effect of CCM and HIWPs in the association between WPB and WRD. Drawing upon conservation of resources theory, the study stands out as it tests the moderating effect of CCM and HIWPs in the connection between WPB and WRD. The findings contribute to the few available studies tackling organizational factors relevant to alleviating the negative consequences of WPB in organizations.
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Thomas Stephenson, Jane Leaman, Éamonn O’Moore, Anh Tran and Emma Plugge
The purpose of this study is to synthesise the available peer-reviewed literature on the impact of time out of cell (TOOC) and time in purposeful activity (TIPA) on adverse mental…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to synthesise the available peer-reviewed literature on the impact of time out of cell (TOOC) and time in purposeful activity (TIPA) on adverse mental outcomes amongst people in prison.
Design/methodology/approach
The outcomes of interest of this literature review were mental health, suicide, deliberate self-harm (DSH) and violence. Exposures of interest were TOOC, TIPA or a partial or indirect measure of either. In total, 14 studies were included. An abbreviated review methodology was used because of time constraints.
Findings
There was consistent evidence of an association between lower TOOC and TIPA and worse mental health and higher suicide risk. Limited evidence suggests a link between TOOC and DSH. No evidence was identified regarding the relationship between TOOC/TIPA and violence.
Research limitations/implications
A lack of longitudinal studies prevents conclusions regarding causality. Significant heterogeneity of mental health outcomes limits the comparability of studies.
Practical implications
These findings highlight the importance of considering the impact of TOOC and TIPA on adverse mental outcomes for prisoners when designing prison regimes, including during urgent adaptation of such regimes in response to Covid-19. They are likely to be of interest to practitioners and policymakers concerned with prison regime design.
Originality/value
This paper is the first to synthesise the existing literature on the impact of TOOC and TIPA on mental health outcomes.
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The United States’ population is rapidly aging. As older people require more expensive medical and nursing attention, health-care/nursing costs keep rising, to the extent that…
Abstract
Purpose
The United States’ population is rapidly aging. As older people require more expensive medical and nursing attention, health-care/nursing costs keep rising, to the extent that they are not sustainable. As a result, the USA is faced with an ethical dilemma. While egalitarian ethical principles and the provisions of the American Nurses Association (ANA) code of ethics require the provision of medical/nursing care to everyone regardless of age, severity of disease and productivity, utilitarians view that as impossible. Assuming that provisions ANA’s codes of ethics are the same as ethical principles, this paper aims to discuss the debate between those two sides in detail.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper, viewing the rise of health-care/nursing costs as the cause of the above ethical dilemma, discusses Daniel Callahan’s utilitarian argument that, given the ever-rising health/nursing costs as a percentage of GDP, the USA will be forced to ration health care/nursing on the basis of age. The ethical arguments opposing Callahan’s arguments will also be presented.
Findings
While the debate between those two viewpoints is bond to continue, some writers have tried to find a compromise, a solution by assuming that, through efficiency, health/nursing costs can be lowered, making Callahan’s age-based rationing unnecessary.
Originality/value
This paper is original as it, by including nursing costs as an inseparable component of health-care costs, makes the aforementioned debate applicable to nursing care.
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