bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The European Parliament's Role in EU Treaty-Making
Authors: Ott Andrea
Published: February 2017

The European Parliament's role in EU external relations and treaty-making has increased over the years through constitutional practice and Treaty amendments. Finally, with the Treaty of Lisbon, the European Parliament's constitutional rights in treaty-making establish – in the words of the European Court of Justice (CJEU) – ‘symmetry between legislation-making and treaty-making in compliance with institutional balance provided for by the Treaties’. In a comparative overview, the European Parliament has ascertained more extensive powers over treaty-making compared to the majority of national parliaments which are only involved in politically important international treaties. This contribution addresses the consequences of this symmetry or parallelism and asks whether it leads to structural symmetry or even procedural symmetry which synchronizes the acts of legislating and treaty-making with each other. This contribution analyses the role of the European Parliament in the different phases of international treaty-making against the backdrop of this constitutional practice. This constitutional practice is shaped by intergovernmental agreements, bilateral arrangements and European Parliament resolutions and is influenced by the mounting case law of the CJEU. It also assesses the European Parliament's role in concluding international administrative agreements concluded by the Commission and Europol and how far the constitutional practice is in line with EU primary law.
Experimental validation of a novel magnetorheological damper with an internal pressure control
Authors: Golinelli Nicola , Spaggiari Andrea
Published: February 2017

In the present article, we have investigated the behaviour of magnetorheological fluids under a hydrostatic pressure of up to 40 bar.We have designed, manufactured and tested a magnetorheological damper with a novel architecture, which provides the control of the internal pressure. The pressurewas regulated by means of an additional apparatus connected to the damper that acts on the fluid volume. The magnetorheological damper was tested under sinusoidal inputs and with several values for the magnetic field and internal pressure. The results show that the new architecture is able to work without a volume compensator and bear high pressures. On the one hand, the influence of the hydrostatic pressure on the yield stress of the magnetorheological fluids is not strong, probably because the ferromagnetic particles cannot arrange themselves into thicker columns. On the other hand, the benefits of the pressure on the behaviour of the magnetorheological damper are useful in terms of preventing cavitation.
Rheological properties of dimorphic magnetorheological gels mixed dendritic carbonyl iron powder
Authors: Yang Pingan , Yu Miao , Fu Jie , Luo Hongping
Published: February 2017

Magnetorheological gels typically are colloids of spherical micrometer magnetic particles dispersed in a high-viscosity polymer matrix. However, some major parameters of this kind of mono-disperse magnetorheological gel, such as the shear storage modulus and yield stress, cannot meet the needs of practical engineering application. In this study, a systematic experiment was investigated on the use of dendritic carbonyl iron particles to enhance the comprehensive performance in conventional (microsphere-based) magnetorheological gels formulated in polyurethane matrix. Two kinds of carbonyl iron particles that have very similar magnetic properties but very different morphologies (one is spherical and the other is dendritic) are employed. The dimorphic magnetorheological gels were prepared by adding dendritic carbonyl iron particles into the conventional spherical carbonyl iron particle–based magnetorheological gel and a series of dimorphic magnetorheological gel samples were prepared. The magnetorheological properties of those samples, both under oscillatory and rotational shear rheometry, were systematically tested. It was found that the dendritic carbonyl iron particle additives can significantly improve the shear storage modulus and response time of the dimorphic magnetorheological gels compared with conventional magnetorheological gels. Meanwhile, when the mass ratio of dendritic particles to carbonyl iron particles is 25% and 50%, the shear stress, static shear yield stress, and dynamic shear yield stress of dimorphic magnetorheological gels can also be greatly enhanced.
Teaching Tolerance in the Music Classroom
Authors: Darrow Alice-Ann
Published: February 2017

The purpose of this article is to discuss the need for teaching tolerance in music classrooms, as well as the role of music educators in preventing discrimination and promoting tolerance of all targeted groups, but particularly in regard to students with disabilities. Also addressed are curricular implications, suggestions for dealing with abusive and bullying behaviors in the classroom, instructional strategies that address prejudice, and role of music in promoting social justice.
Individual and Social Factors in Volunteering Participation Rates in Europe
Authors: Gil-Lacruz Ana Isabel , Marcuello Carmen , Saz-Gil Isabel
Published: February 2017

The main goal of this article is to explore the role of individual sociodemographic characteristics and national social backgrounds in forming people’s decisions to engage in voluntary work. We have drawn data from the European Value Survey (1990, 1999, and 2008). We analyze voluntary work as an aggregate measure and also through four different categories. We have performed multilevel regression models taking into account a hierarchical structure of two levels: individual and country. There are no relevant gender and age differences, and, in fact, the most important differences lie in the impact of social factors rather than individual characteristics. We also highlight that geographical effects are diluted after controlling for social factors, but a certain level of geographical variance remains unclarified by the explanatory variables. This conclusion has important policy implications because it opens the door to implementing social policies that could be effective for all European countries.
Kinetic modelling and optimisation of antimicrobial compound production by Candida pyralidae KU736785 for control of Candida guilliermondii
Authors: Mewa-Ngongang Maxwell , du Plessis Heinrich W , Hutchinson Ucrecia F , Mekuto Lukhanyo , Ntwampe Seteno KO
Published: February 2017

Biological antimicrobial compounds from yeast can be used to address the critical need for safer preservatives in food, fruit and beverages. The inhibition of Candida guilliermondii, a common fermented beverage spoilage organism, was achieved using antimicrobial compounds produced by Candida pyralidae KU736785. The antimicrobial production system was modelled and optimised using response surface methodology, with 22.5 ℃ and pH of 5.0 being the optimum conditions. A new concept for quantifying spoilage organism inhibition was developed. The inhibition activity of the antimicrobial compounds was observed to be at a maximum after 17–23 h of fermentation, with C. pyralidae concentration being between 0.40 and 1.25 × 109 CFU ml−1, while its maximum specific growth rate was 0.31–0.54 h−1. The maximum inhibitory activity was between 0.19 and 1.08 l contaminated solidified media per millilitre of antimicrobial compound used. Furthermore, the antimicrobial compound formation rate was 0.037–0.086 l VZI ml−1 ACU h−1, respectively. The response surface methodology analysis showed that the model developed sufficiently described the antimicrobial compound formation rate 1.08 l VZI ml−1 ACU, as 1.17 l VZI ml−1 ACU, predicted under the optimum production conditions.
Understanding parents’ concerns about their children with autism taking public school transportation in Los Angeles County
Authors: Angell Amber M , Solomon Olga
Published: February 2017

There are a number of recent US news media reports of children and youth with autism becoming lost, injured, or even dying while taking public school transportation, yet research on this problem is scarce. This ethnographic study examines the experiences of 14 parents whose children with autism take public school transportation in Los Angeles County. We present two case studies of children with autism being “lost” while in transit from school to home on the bus to (1) describe how the situation was experienced, responded to, and managed by the parents; (2) consider three interrelated themes that emerged from interviews with 14 parents, related to children’s safety, independence, and participation, across multiple contexts and analytic levels; and (3) discuss the findings in relation to US news media reports of incidents involving children with autism on school buses to identify specific weaknesses in school transportation infrastructure, particularly in the context of privatization, that create conditions in which children with autism can “fall through the cracks” in potentially life-threatening ways. We argue that there is a critical need to address transportation accessibility for individuals on the autism spectrum to ensure their safety and support their independence and community participation.
Mechanical and thermal properties of glass fibre-reinforced ceramsite-foamed concrete
Authors: Chen Guoxin , Wang Kang
Published: February 2017

This study investigated the mechanical and thermal properties of glass fibre-reinforced ceramsite-foamed concrete with a volume of entrained air generated by hydrogen peroxide. The effects of hydrogen peroxide content, glass fibre content, glazed hollow bead content and ceramsite content on the compressive strength, splitting tensile strength and thermal conductivity were investigated. The results indicated that with the addition of hydrogen peroxide and an increase in glazed hollow bead and ceramsite content, there was a significant increase in the brittleness of foamed concrete. Glass fibre can obviously improve the splitting tensile strength and reduce the thermal conductivity of foamed concrete. In addition, an empirical compressive strength formula of glass fibre-reinforced ceramsite-foamed concrete was recommended.
Improvement in the prevention of asbestos fibre release from ceiling materials by increasing the penetration of a silicate stabilizer through dilution
Authors: Shin Hyungyoo , Choi Youngkue , Jeon Boram , Ha Jooyeon , Sun Yleshik , Park Whame
Published: February 2017

The effect of diluting asbestos stabilizer on its performance of suppressing the asbestos fibre release has been investigated in terms of its penetrability into ceiling materials containing asbestos fibres. The performance of a silicate stabilizer was determined for cases where the ceiling material was damaged by external factors. The higher dilution rate of the stabilizer resulted in lower viscosities and hence greater penetration depths into asbestos ceiling materials. In addition, for cases in which the diluted stabilizer was sprayed several times onto the ceiling materials, the released asbestos fibre concentration was shown to be reduced by approximately 89% compared to the case of damaged ceiling material. Furthermore, this held true in cases where treated ceiling materials were damaged. The optimum condition, considering both performance and efficiency, is for a stabilizer with distilled water to be applied onto the damaged asbestos ceiling materials several times.
Risking hope in a worried world
Authors: Silin Jonathan
Published: February 2017

Hope is at the heart of the educational endeavour. Yet it is a challenge for educators to sustain a sense of hope in a worried world where terrorism, mass migrations, global warming and ultra-right political movements are on the rise. Acknowledging that hopefulness always involves risk, this article identifies three pedagogical practices which support potential and possibility in children: letting go of worry, engaging in the pleasures of forgetting, and learning to wait. Drawing on his work as an early childhood educator, AIDS advocate and caregiver to his aging parents, the author suggests that self-restraint – checking the impulse to fix and remediate – may be the most effective way to help others. Leaving aside excessive rules and abstract theories enables teachers to stay in the moment and in relation with others. Rejecting a blind hope that defends against remembering the ravages of personal and social histories, the author proposes embracing a modulated or educated hope (José Muñoz) that can keep us grounded in the real, even as we imagine the world differently.
Opening doors: Women's participation in feminist studies about domestic violence
Authors: Buchanan Fiona , Wendt Sarah
Published: February 2017

Qualitative research into sensitive and emotionally laden topics can pose a number of challenges for researchers. This paper presents reflections from two social work researchers who have led multiple feminist-based qualitative research studies about research participation enabling positive experiences for women who have survived domestic violence. It is argued, women can identify new insights, find alternative ways of looking at their experiences, and access opportunities to debrief in a unique way in the research interview setting that differs from counselling experiences. The authors use the metaphor of ‘opening doors’ to show how women construct their research participation experience in similar ways and how researchers can draw on social work skills to enhance positive experiences for women.
The Speak UP! Salon Project: Using Hair Stylists as Lay Health Educators About Unintended Pregnancy
Authors: Roberts-Dobie Susan , Rasmusson Addie , Losch Mary E.
Published: February 2017

The Speak UP! Salon Project trained 126 hair stylists from 60 salons as lay health educators to increase knowledge about contraceptives and inform clients about financial support for long-acting reversible contraceptives at local family planning clinics. Stylists’ informal social support system, combined with the rapport built with clients over time, make them excellent candidates for lay health educator projects. This 3-year salon-based intervention was implemented in nine counties in a Midwestern state. Results from a subsample of participants who completed an online questionnaire (n = 177) indicate that hair stylists are a feasible method to link target populations to health information and to the health care system. The benefits and challenges of collecting data in a salon environment are also discussed.
Stroke Lesions in a Large Upper Limb Rehabilitation Trial Cohort Rarely Match Lesions in Common Preclinical Models
Authors: Edwardson Matthew A. , Wang Ximing , Liu Brent , Ding Li , Lane Christianne J. , Park Caron , Nelsen Monica A. , Jones Theresa A. , Wolf Steven L. , Winstein Carolee J. , Dromerick Alexander W.
Published: February 2017

Background. Stroke patients with mild-moderate upper extremity motor impairments and minimal sensory and cognitive deficits provide a useful model to study recovery and improve rehabilitation. Laboratory-based investigators use lesioning techniques for similar goals. Objective. To determine whether stroke lesions in an upper extremity rehabilitation trial cohort match lesions from the preclinical stroke recovery models used to drive translational research. Methods. Clinical neuroimages from 297 participants enrolled in the Interdisciplinary Comprehensive Arm Rehabilitation Evaluation (ICARE) study were reviewed. Images were characterized based on lesion type (ischemic or hemorrhagic), volume, vascular territory, depth (cortical gray matter, cortical white matter, subcortical), old strokes, and leukoaraiosis. Lesions were compared with those of preclinical stroke models commonly used to study upper limb recovery. Results. Among the ischemic stroke participants, median infarct volume was 1.8 mL, with most lesions confined to subcortical structures (61%) including the anterior choroidal artery territory (30%) and the pons (23%). Of ICARE participants, <1% had lesions resembling proximal middle cerebral artery or surface vessel occlusion models. Preclinical models of subcortical white matter injury best resembled the ICARE population (33%). Intracranial hemorrhage participants had small (median 12.5 mL) lesions that best matched the capsular hematoma preclinical model. Conclusions. ICARE subjects are not representative of all stroke patients, but they represent a clinically and scientifically important subgroup. Compared with lesions in general stroke populations and widely studied animal models of recovery, ICARE participants had smaller, more subcortically based strokes. Improved preclinical-clinical translational efforts may require better alignment of lesions between preclinical and human stroke recovery models.
Evidence That Lifelong Low Dose Rates of Ionizing Radiation Increase Lifespan in Long- and Short-Lived Dogs
Authors: Cuttler Jerry M. , Feinendegen Ludwig E. , Socol Yehoshua
Published: February 2017

After the 1956 radiation scare to stop weapons testing, studies focused on cancer induction by low-level radiation. Concern has shifted to protecting “radiation-sensitive individuals.” Since longevity is a measure of health impact, this analysis reexamined data to compare the effect of dose rate on the lifespans of short-lived (5% and 10% mortality) dogs and on the lifespans of dogs at 50% mortality. The data came from 2 large-scale studies. One exposed 10 groups to different γ dose rates; the other exposed 8 groups to different lung burdens of plutonium. Reexamination indicated that normalized lifespans increased more for short-lived dogs than for average dogs, when radiation was moderately above background. This was apparent by interpolating between the lifespans of nonirradiated dogs and exposed dogs. The optimum lifespan increase appeared at 50 mGy/y. The threshold for harm (decreased lifespan) was 700 mGy/y for 50% mortality dogs and 1100 mGy/y for short-lived dogs. For inhaled α-emitting particulates, longevity was remarkably increased for short-lived dogs below the threshold for harm. Short-lived dogs seem more radiosensitive than average dogs and they benefit more from low radiation. If dogs model humans, this evidence would support a change to radiation protection policy. Maintaining exposures “as low as reasonably achievable” (ALARA) appears questionable.
Multi-camera networks for motion parameter estimation of an aircraft
Authors: Guan Banglei , Sun Xiangyi , Shang Yang , Zhang Xiaohu , Hofer Manuel
Published: February 2017

A multi-camera network is proposed to estimate an aircraft’s motion parameters relative to the reference platform in large outdoor fields. Multiple cameras are arranged to cover the aircraft’s large-scale motion spaces by field stitching. A camera calibration method using dynamic control points created by a multirotor unmanned aerial vehicle is presented under the conditions that the field of view of the cameras is void. The relative deformation of the camera network caused by external environmental factors is measured and compensated using a combination of cameras and laser rangefinders. A series of field experiments have been carried out using a fixed-wing aircraft without artificial makers, and its accuracy is evaluated using an onboard Differential Global Positioning System. The experimental results show that the multi-camera network is precise, robust, and highly dynamic and can improve the aircraft’s landing accuracy.
Factoring media use into media system theory—An examination of 14 European nations (2002–2010)
Authors: Meilán Xabier , Wu H Denis
Published: February 2017

This study incorporates media use pattern into examining three distinct media systems proposed by Hallin and Mancini. The uses of newspapers, radio, television, and Internet in European Social Surveys were included. North-Central European nations, particularly the Nordic countries, demonstrate more widespread media use than other European nations. Media-use Gini indexes support Hallin and Mancini’s original demarcation. Cluster analysis, however, indicates that the European nations of the three groups slightly differ from the original typology.
Knowledge, attitudes and practices related to tetanus toxoid vaccination in women of childbearing age: A cross-sectional study in peri-urban settlements of Karachi, Pakistan
Authors: Shafiq Yasir , Khowaja Asif Raza , Yousafzai Mohammad Tahir , Ali Syed Asad , Zaidi Anita , Saleem Ali Faisal
Published: February 2017

Backgound:

A higher incidence of neonatal tetanus implies failure of the vaccination program in Pakistan.

Objectives:

The objective of this study was to assess knowledge, attitudes and practices related to tetanus toxoid (TT) vaccine in women of childbearing age.

Methods:

We performed a cross-sectional survey in peri-urban Karachi, Pakistan, among women of childbearing age, stratified into three mutually exclusive groups as: married pregnant; married non-pregnant; and unmarried. Descriptive and inferential analyses were performed to estimate vaccine coverage and knowledge attributes.

Results:

A total of 450 women participated, of which the largest proportion were married and non-pregnant (n = 185/450, 41%). Over 50% of women (n = 258/450) had not received TT vaccine. Most unmarried women (n = 139, 97%) were unvaccinated. Non-vaccination predictors included: women aged <25 years without any formal education (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 2.1; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.0–4.4), lack of knowledge about free vaccination (adjusted OR, 4.0; 95% CI, 1.64–10.20), poor knowledge of tetanus disease/vaccination (adjusted OR, 4.6; 95%, 2.2–9.6), living with extended family (adjusted OR, 2.0; 95% CI, 1.04–3.96); family non-supporting vaccination (adjusted OR, 5.7; 95% CI, 2.3–13.9); and husband/other family member deciding upon issues related to women’s health (adjusted OR, 2.9; 95% CI, 1.3–6.6).

Conclusion:

Low coverage of TT vaccine is largely influenced by poor knowledge, family structure and family decision-making in the local communities of Pakistan.
The Postal Network between Competition and Universal Service Provision: Possible Scenarios for its Evolution
Authors: Finger Matthias
Published: February 2017

This paper explores the status and possible regulation of the postal network in the broader context of Universal Postal Service provision and competition. It highlights the fact that there are several different ways to consider the future of the postal network. It then identifies three possible analogies from which the regulation of the postal network could be approached, namely the banking sector, railways, and telecommunications. Finally, the paper highlights possible scenarios for the future regulation of the postal network. In conclusion, the paper identifies the various factors which may determine this possible future regulation of the postal network.
How Much Cost Plus is in German Network Charges
Authors: Müller Christoph , Weigt Hannes
Published: February 2017

The 1998 Energy Act liberalised the German Electricity Supply Industry. Unlike all other EU Member states, Germany opted for negotiated network access, which was manifested in the so called Verbändevereinbarungen. According to these rules, German network charges should be cost plus calculated and subject to ex post control by the Cartel Office, which is hardly enforced in practice. In the paper three basic tests are applied to find out whether German network charges follow a cost plus principle or whether strategic concerns of incumbents dominate the network charge calculation. Although the results are not unambiguous, it seems that “cost plus” is only a label and not the true nature of German network charges.
Bringing Technical Systems Back in: Towards a New European Model of Regulating the Network Industries
Authors: Finger Matthias , Varone Frédéric
Published: February 2017

This paper discusses and confirms Prof. Giandomenico Majone's argument that there is a European regulatory model emerging. It crystallizes the underlying forces which lead to this model and describes its main defining features, which are structured around sector-specific regulation. However, the paper also notes that this European model of regulating the network industries appears to he increasingly at odds with the technical and systemic evolution of the network industries. In conclusion the paper therefore highlights three possible future evolutions of regulating the network industries in Europe, namely European regulators, self-regulation by market operators, and nationally differentiated regulation.
An Auctioning Approach to Railway Slot Allocation
Authors: Borndörfer Ralf , Grötschel Martin , Lukac Sascha , Mitusch Kay , Schlechte Thomas , Schultz Sören , Tanner Andreas
Published: February 2017

We present an approach to implement an auction of railway slots. Railway network, train driving characteristics, and safety requirements are described by a simplified, but still complex macroscopic model. In this environment, slots are modelled as combinations of scheduled track segments. The auction design builds on the iterative combinatorial auction. However, combinatorial bids are restricted to some types of slot bundles that realize positive synergies between slots. We present a bidding language that allows bidding for these slot bundles. An integer programming approach is proposed to solve the winner determination problem of our auction. Computational results for auction simulations in the Hannover-Fulda-Kassel area of the German railway network give evidence that auction approaches can induce a more efficient use of railway capacity.
Network Unbundling, Ownership Structure and Oligopolies: A Case Study for the Belgian Electricity Market
Authors: Pepermans Guido , Willems Bert
Published: February 2017

This paper studies how different types of unbundling – accounting, management, legal and ownership unbundling – influence the electricity wholesale market. Starting from the current market situation as observed in many countries, with imperfect competition in generation and imperfect regulation of the network operator, it is not obvious that any kind of unbundling will result in a better outcome in terms of efficiency and welfare. With the imperfections just mentioned, unbundling can create better incentives for entry in the generation market, but it can also create a double marginalisation problem.

We study the effect of unbundling in a numerical model that captures two kinds of ownership interactions between the generation and the transmission sector. Passive ownership – or legal unbundling – where the generation firm simply cashes its share of the transmission firm's profit without having a direct impact on its decision process, and active ownership – or management unbundling – where the generator still has a direct influence on the transmission firm's decision process.

Simulations, calibrated on Belgian electricity market data, show that the fastest road towards a more efficient electricity market is a road that implies a welfare reduction at an intermediate stage. The results also strongly suggest that the current European electricity directive, imposing legal unbundling, is not sufficient. European legislation should move further and impose ownership unbundling if a level playing field and a competitive electricity market is the objective.
Provision of Operating Reserve Capacity: Principles and Practices on the Nordic Electricity Market
Authors: Amundsen Eirik S. , Bergman Lars
Published: February 2017

System reliability is a key aspect of electricity supply, and the ability to maintain system reliability thus is an important aspect of a liberalised electricity market. But system reliability can be ensured only if there is sufficient operating reserve capacity at all times. In a liberalised electricity market the provision of operating reserve capacity is a matter of incentives that should be formulated on basic principles of economic behaviour. The Nordic electricity market, comprising the integrated Danish, Finnish, Norwegian, and Swedish electricity markets, has worked well from a system reliability point of view. A key factor behind this favourable outcome is that the incentives for keeping sufficient operating reserve capacity have been strong enough. The reason for this is an adequate institutional design. More precisely the set of markets that is commonly called “the electricity market” includes both regulation and capacity markets, and rules and regulations are such that these markets are well-functioning.
Regulation and Privatisation of the Public Water Supply in England, France and Germany
Authors: Wackerbauer Johann
Published: February 2017

Faced with liberalisation proposals and an increasing internationalisation of water resource management, the question arises as to how a change of the regulatory framework in Germany would affect the market structure and the supply conditions in this area. The water supply companies in Germany have invested ca. €2.5 billion annually to achieve a high technical standard, which has resulted in high cost increases and price hikes. It is thus presumed that there is a high rationalisation potential for the municipal water suppliers. The questions of economic efficiency and the participation of private providers in the water supply have increasingly gained importance. A liberalisation of the water supply can take place in different ways; the concrete basic features depend on what regulations the market for drinking water is or should be subject to and in what way and to what extent the private sector is involved into the organisation of water supply. In the EU-15, the only country where the provision of operational services in the water supply has been totally passed to the private sector is the United Kingdom, but this is only true for England and Wales. Another singular case is France, where there is a mix of mainly private operating companies and municipalities which have divided the regional supply areas among themselves. In six other EU-15 countries where some privatisation took place, either the municipalities or (majority) publicly owned companies are controlling water supply. In the remaining seven countries, the water supply is organised by municipality companies only. In this paper the two unique forms of privatisation in France and England/Wales as well as the German method of privatisation as an example for the interaction of municipalities and majority publicly owned water companies are discussed, especially with regard to the corresponding effects on competition and market structures.
Private Operation of Water Utilities and Public Asset Holding Companies – Winning Combination or Losing Battle?
Authors: Kerf Michel , Muzzini Elisa
Published: February 2017

Several African governments, like others throughout the world, have been experimenting for some time with private sector participation in the provision of water supply and sanitation services. Some of these governments, though not all, decided to establish asset holding companies, in an effort to facilitate the transition to private participation. Those asset holding companies are state-owned entities entrusted with exclusive or partial responsibility for one or more of the following tasks: (i) owning infrastructure assets; (ii) planning and financing investments in the water supply and sanitation sector; (Hi) regulating the activities of the private operator; and (iv) promoting public acceptance of private sector participation in the sector. The present paper discusses a number of African experiences with private sector participation in water supply and sanitation – some of which involved the creation of such asset holding companies and some of which did not – in an attempt to shed light on the pros and cons of establishing asset holding companies in the context of water supply and sanitation reform. The paper concludes that asset holding companies might have a comparative advantage only with respect to one of the functions listed above – the planning and financing of investments – and then only in some specific circumstances.
Technology Standards, Patents and Antitrust
Authors: Lévêque François , Ménière Yann
Published: February 2017

From the perspective of antitrust authorities, the multiplication of patents embodied in technology standards is a source of concerns. Certainly it is necessary and efficient that patents owners derive a revenue from the use of the standard. Yet by their function – ensuring compatibility between different products by promoting a common technology platform in a particular industry – standards generate potential for market power far beyond the legal protection conferred by patents. Patent holders may thus be tempted to leverage their position to make illegal profits. Such concerns arise in two different cases that have fuelled antitrust debates and economic research during the last decade. On the one hand, patent owners may be tempted to collude by coordinating their licensing policies. The difficulty here is that some coordination between them within a patent pool may actually be pro-competitive. After a brief introduction, we explain in the first part why, and on what conditions, patent pools should be accepted by antitrust authorities. On the other hand, patent owners may be tempted to manipulate the standard setting process by waiting for the wide adoption of the standard before charging excessive royalties to its users. We present this hold-up problem in the second part, and show how appropriate rules for standard setting processes can help mitigate it.
Managing Infrastructure Performance
Authors: de Bruijn Hans , de Bruijne Mark , Steenhuisen Bauke
Published: February 2017

Many governments use Performance Measurement Systems (PMSs) to measure vulnerabilities in network industries and to manage the processes aimed at reducing these vulnerabilities. We focus on two important aspects of vulnerability: interruption of supply for the Dutch electricity industry and punctuality in the Dutch railway industry. First, we describe the design of the PMSs in both industries. Next, we confront the characteristics of these PMSs with the underlying complexity of the operational service in both sectors. Further, we describe the positive and perverse effects of the PMSs in action. Finally, we interpret our findings with a number of theoretical notions.
Approximation of National Laws on the Allocation of Radio Frequencies for Broadcasting and Mobile Telecommunications Services in the EU
Authors: Koenig Christian , Bache Volker , Trias Ana
Published: February 2017

The question addressed is whether the EC has competence under Article 95 EC Treaty1 (EC) on the approximation of laws to allocate the frequencies to be released by the switchover from analogue to digital at the European level, or if the exercise of this legislative power is reserved to the Member States in an exclusive competence on the financing of public broadcasting. Due to the length and scope of this paper, the topic will be treated with a specific focus on the European telecommunications market.

Methodologically, the EC competence in question will be studied under the criteria developed by the European Court of Justice (EC]) case law through case Germany v European Parliament and Council (Case 376/98) [2002], hereafter the “Tobacco Advertising Case”. This choice is based on two different sets of reasons: On the one hand, this ruling clarifies the scope of a domaine réservé of Member States under EC Law through the example of health policy and balances it with the requirements of the internal market, and on the other hand, it sets the strictest prerequisites for an EC harmonization competence to be exercised within the aforesaid scope. Therefore, if said conditions are met, there can be no doubt that Article 95 EC is applicable to the case at hand. Within this context, we shall argue that the EC has competence under Article 95 EC to allocate the frequencies to be released, since: First, there is a future likely disparity in national laws.

Second, such disparity will create obstacles to the exercise of the free movement of services and goods, as well as of the freedom of establishment. Moreover, it will result in appreciable distortions of competition.

Third, a harmonization measure will actually contribute to improve the functioning of the internal market and it would not interfere with the guarantee of existence and development of public broadcasting nor with the subsidiarity principle, provided that they applied.
Cross-Subsidies in the Electricity Sector
Authors: Willems Bert , Ehlers Eckart
Published: February 2017

Most firms in the electricity sector are vertically integrated. Often these integrated firms are accused of using income generated in the regulated sector in order to cross-subsidize their unregulated activities. This cross-subsidization is said to distort the level-playing field and lead to an unfair competition between incumbent and entrants.

In this paper we argue that cross-subsidies are a normal business practice which should only be a concern when they are part of anti-competitive practice such as a price squeeze or predatory pricing. If the government is concerned about those practices, it should evaluate the sector using a similar analysis as developed under Article 82 EC, regardless of whether cross-subsidies are involved.
Financing Arrangements and Industrial Organisation for New Nuclear Build in Electricity Markets
Authors: Finon Dominique , Roques Fabien
Published: February 2017

The paper studies how the risks specific to a nuclear power investment in liberalised markets – regulatory, construction, operation and market risks – can be mitigated or transferred away from the plant investor through different contractual and organisational arrangements. It argues that at least for the first new reactors significant risk transfers onto governments, consumers, and, vendors are likely to be needed to make nuclear power attractive to investors in liberalised markets. These different types of risk allocations will in turn induce different investment financing choices. Four case studies of recent new nuclear projects illustrate the alternative consistent combinations of contractual, organization, and financial arrangements for new nuclear build depending on the industrial organisation, the market position of the company and the institutional environment prevailing in different countries. The most likely financing structure will likely be based on corporate financing or some form of hybrid arrangement backed by the balance sheet of one or a consortium of large vertically integrated companies.
Using Cost Allocation to Partially Regulate Multi-Market Utilities
Authors: Chaaban Jad M.
Published: February 2017

This paper derives optimal price structure regulation schemes for partially regulated multi-market utilities, in a context of both complete and asymmetric information. The effects of these regulation schemes on competition and market structure in unregulated segments are explored under oligopoly competition. It is shown that, although Fully Distributed Cost (FDC) can be a good instrument in a partial regulation context with full information, it offers under asymmetric information an opportunity for the multi-market incumbent to engage in strategic accounting manipulation. Multi-market incumbents tend to misreport true marginal costs: costs are inflated in the regulated segment, and competition is harmed in the unregulated segment. The Incremental Cost rule is thus compared to FDC in terms of overall welfare effects, based on the characteristics of this incentive behavior. Accounting manipulation is also studied within antitrust issues, where the anticompetitive effects of possible regulatory failure are highlighted.
Worksharing and Innovation in the American Postal Sector
Authors: Felisberto Cátia , Finger Matthias
Published: February 2017

This paper empirically assesses the relationship between upstream access (worksharing) and innovation in the postal sector through the study of the United States Postal Service (USPS) case. Three measures are used as proxies for innovation: (1) number of published patent applications made by USPS; (2) labour productivity; and (3) an innovation index based on a survey conducted for this purpose. In order to build the innovation index we have collected data on seventeen critical innovations for eighteen countries. Worksharing is measured through the percentage of worksharing volume. The correlation between the innovation measures and the percentage of worksharing volume is analysed. We find evidence of a positive relationship between innovation and upstream access.
The Concept of Covaluation: Institutionalising the Involvement of Local (Public) Values in Regional Planning on Water
Authors: van Schie Nienke , Bouma Jan Jaap
Published: February 2017

This paper discusses the issue of valuation with respect to the use of water systems and related infrastructures in the context of regional planning. It is argued that a further institutionalisation of the integration of local (public) values into interactive decision making is needed. This requires an institutional design that embeds local values in the use of valuation methods and rules and guidelines relevant to regional planning. Existing procedures of valuation and weighing may still be used but in a context of co-valuation. However, co-valuation is characterized by its multi-actor approach towards valuation that assesses different and sometimes competing values. A case study was conducted to experiment with the combination of deliberation and weighing in local/regional spatial development concerning water systems and related infrastructures. Based on the case study and related research, some first steps towards the involvement of local values in decision making are proposed.
Excellence without Competition
Authors: Schröter Harm G.
Published: February 2017

Today excellence and the lack of competition seem to be contradictory, but this contribution provides one example of it. After a brief tour d'horizon, placing the German telephone network in the interwar period (our example) in its context, the reasons for its excellence are explained. For this Thomas Hughes's theory of large technical system is improved by two more parameters, policy and the legal framework. Our evaluation shows excellence was achieved through several factors acting simultaneously. One was the self-understanding of the employees to provide the best possible service. Their commitment was based on a feeling of representing a social and technical elite, which entailed obligations. A second factor was the kind of regulation the Reichspost had to respond to. It allowed the system to operate fairly like a private enterprise, applying, for instance a PPP as an additional source of quantitative and qualitative growth. A third factor was a close cooperation between the telephone network and private industry.
Anti-Corruption in Regulation – A Safeguard for Infrastructure Reforms
Authors: Boehm Frédéric
Published: February 2017

One of the main objectives of reforms in infrastructure sectors, comprising deregulation, restructuring and private-sector participations, is the introduction of competition. In turn, effective regulation is one of the key elements for reform's success. But regulation is prone to corruption and capture by narrow interests. This paper, drawing on theory and the Colombian experience, provides an overview of potential corruption risks during regulation, and anti-corruption strategies which, in the end, have the objective to safeguard the objective of reforms. The paper starts with describing corrupt risks and proceeds discussing organizational aspects: decentralization, horizontal organization, and the issue of regulatory autonomy. Then three key factors are presented: incentives, institutions and information. Traditional incentive theory leads to contemplating control, rewards and sanctions. A new institutional approach taking into account the characteristics of corrupt deals leads to policies aiming at augmenting the transaction costs of corruption and fostering opportunism between corrupt partners. Finally, measures are discussed seeking to tackle the problem of information asymmetries between the different actors. However, there are no one-size-fits-all solutions, and a careful analysis of the actual situation must be the starting point for designing an adequate response to corruption risks.
Traditional Regulatory Approaches and the Postal Service Market
Authors: Heitzler Sven
Published: February 2017

For discussions of postal regulation, often telecommunications regulation is used as a reference framework. Both the postal and the telecommunications market frameworks aim at fostering effective competition and innovations for the further development of the so-called Information Society. Recent trends in the EU show that postal service markets are likely to be regulated as if they essentially shared the characteristics with the telecommunications sector. In both industries, regulators follow the strategy to phase-in competition, supported by regulatory interventions. The first objective of the paper is to review the underlying economic rationale and justification for regulation in network infrastructure industries, namely natural monopolies and essential facilities and the result, that entry barriers may exist and unregulated competition would be inefficient. Second, the paper assesses the two instruments downstream access and retail price regulation, typically used in telecommunications regulation from a postal sector perspective. Comparing these two industries and providing transparent illustration of the different characteristics of postal and telecommunications networks allow to highlight the specifics of postal markets. Third, we discuss the transferability of standard practices and conclusions on the scope for postal industry regulation are drawn.
Reforms in the Urban Water Sector: A Vulnerability Analysis of the Main Elements at Risk
Authors: Luís-Manso Patrícia , Finger Matthias
Published: February 2017

The Urban Water Sector has undergone important reforms in recent years, which are creating new risks pertaining to the sustainability of capital investments and the universality of service provision. In this paper we draw together the factors that influence the vulnerability of these two elements at risk, and assess whether the hazards created by the reform affect positively or negatively these vulnerability factors across different institutional arrangements. The literature on New Institutional Economics, and in particular Transaction-Costs Economics, is used as a tool to design the framework for carrying out the vulnerability analyses. The influence of contract design is also taken into consideration because it affects the impact of the vulnerability factors on the elements at risk in certain institutional arrangements. In order to verify whether the identified factors of vulnerability are perceived as important by the management entities and the differences across institutional arrangements, a questionnaire was sent out to 250 operators worldwide.
Contract Law, Regulation and Competition in Energy Markets
Authors: Bellantuono Giuseppe
Published: February 2017

Energy markets in the United States and the European Union are in the midst of a transition from a monopolistic structure to a competitive one. This paper argues that the outcomes of the reform process should be understood in the context of existing regulatory institutions. Successes and failures are as much the result of the economic and technological characteristics of energy markets as of the main components of the surrounding legal landscape. To document this claim, regulation of long-term energy contracts in the US and the EU is employed as a case study. Two divergent approaches can be detected: Whereas European regulation focuses on the anti-competitive side, American regulation emphasizes the pro-competitive side of long-term contracts. Drawing on economic theories of contract, the paper points out that both systems must address the trade-off between reducing the costs of contractual rivalry and reducing the costs of competition. To strike a balance between these two aspects, American and European institutions rely on regulatory tools deeply entrenched in their respective legal cultures.