The kinked demand curve and price rigidity: evidence from scanner data

This paper uses scanner data from a large euro area retailer. We extend Deaton and Muellbauer's Almost Ideal Demand System to estimate the price elasticity and curvature of demand for a wide range of products. Our results support the introduction of a kinked (concave) demand curve in general equilibrium macro models. We find that the price elasticity of demand is on average higher for price increases than for price decreases. However, the degree of curvature in demand is much lower than is currently imposed. Moreover, for a significant fraction of products we observe a convex demand curve. We find no correlation between the estimated price elasticity/curvature and the observed size or frequency of price adjustment in our dat

Paper 99: design guidelines versus practices for the Upper Seascheldt, the inland waterway connection between Antwerp and Ghent

Design guidelines for inland waterways are so far a national matter. PIANC InCom Working Group 141 "Design Guidelines for Inland Waterways" is nevertheless working on a report with a summary of existing guidelines and a methodology for the concept and detailed design of canals and rivers. For tidal rivers the design is a difficult process and an example is given through the accessibility of the Upper-Seascheldt for CEMT class IV and Va inland vessels between the port of Antwerp and the locks in Merelbeke. A combined evaluation based on concept design guidelines for canals, practices measured during a full-scale voyage and detailed design using ship handling simulators is discussed and illustrated

Context

For centuries, the Scheldt and its tributaries have ensured a wellwatered country bursting with dynamism. But tidal rivers may also bring a great deal of water-based misery. Protecting Flanders more effectively against flooding by the Scheldt and its tributaries is the main objective of the Sigma Plan. All at once, the wonderful nature of the Scheldt will be restored in numerous places. Thousands of walkers and cyclists can then enjoy it to the fullest. The Sigma Plan also has an eye on the economic role of the Scheldt as one of Europe’s busiest rivers.In this chapter, you will find out all about the work in Bergenmeersen, a subsector of the Kalkense Meersen Cluster Sigma Project. You will discover how the Sigma Plan originated and how that progressive plan evolved into a smart project for the future that goes far beyond flood management

Preparatory investigation

A great deal of preparatory investigation preceded the organizational work at Bergenmeersen. This was necessary to gain an insight into soil quality and structure and the archaeological richness of the project area, since these elements influence the design and costs of the project.This chapter describes the results of the environmental, geotechnical and geophysical soil survey and the archaeological survey. It also examines the model trials of the inlet and outlet sluices. It is through these sluices that the Scheldt water will flow into and out of the flood control area with controlled reduced tide (FCA-CRT)

Anterolateral Ligament Repair With Suture Tape Augmentation

Recent insights into the structure and function of the anterolateral ligament (ALL) of the knee has resulted in a recognition of its contribution in rotational control of the knee. Several ALL reconstruction techniques have been described in the literature. This article describes, with video illustration, a percutaneous repair technique using suture tape augmentation. A tendon graft is not needed. This technique allows early mobilization and encourages natural healing of the ligament by protecting the ligament during the healing phase as a secondary stabilizer

Posterolateral Corner Repair With Suture Tape Augmentation

The posterolateral corner (PLC) of the knee is the main restraint to varus forces of the knee as well as posterolateral rotation of the tibia relative to the femur. Primary PLC repairs have been associated with a high failure rate in past literature. However, with modern improved arthroscopic instrumentation and devices, there has been a renewed interest in repair of the ligaments around the knee. Internal bracing with suture tape augmentation encourages healing and allows early mobilization. This article describes, with video illustration, PLC repair with suture tape augmentation

Anterior Cruciate Ligament Repair Using Independent Suture Tape Reinforcement

Recently there has been renewed interest in primary repair of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). Repair of the acute proximal ruptured ACL can be achieved with the independent suture tape reinforcement ACL repair technique. The independent suture tape reinforcement technique reinforces the ligament as a secondary stabilizer, encouraging natural healing of the ligament by protecting it during the healing phase and supporting early mobilization. The purpose of this article is to describe, with video illustration, this ACL repair technique

Turn the tide: scientific research towards an integrated plan for the Upper-Seascheldt

During the last 150 years the Scheldt estuary has seen many changes either to claim land for urban or agricultural development or to improve the navigability. From the 1950’s onwards the most important changes to the character of the estuary could be attributed to infrastructural works such as dike construction and deepening. Even though cause–effect relationships are difficult to determine it is largely accepted that, besides reclamations, the main contribution to the loss of habitat can be attributed to the increase in tidal amplitude. In various studies the relationship between tidal amplification and large scale engineering works, including deepening, (downstream) sand extraction, embankments and straightening works, has been pointed out. It is clear that anthropogenic changes to the system can have serious consequences to the state of the estuary and that future works need to be prepared in a conscious and sustainable manner in order to avoid further tidal amplification.Within the framework of the project “Integrated Plan Upper-Seascheldt” commissioned by the Seascheldt division of the Waterwegen & Zeekanaal NV, it is investigated how navigability can be improved (to class Va) without negative effects to nature and safety against flooding. It is the goal of this integrated study to look for synergy in order to mitigate negative impacts of the proposed measures or even to improve the functioning of the system. In the last 10 years already various environmental measures like de-poldering are being implemented under the SIGMA-Plan.This paper will discuss the evolution of the Seascheldt in relation to historical anthropogenic changes. It will focus on the observed changes in water level, bathymetry, habitats (salt marshes) and sediment concentrations. In addition, the paper will outline the project plan to investigate whether de-poldering projects and other solutions or strategies can be identified that may ‘turn the tide’. This study involves applied scientific research to improve knowledge on (ecological) functioning of the Scheldt Estuary by means of a chain of model developments by the project partners (INBO, UA and FHR)