bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Asymptotic behaviour of solutions to non-commensurate fractional-order planar systems
Authors: Diethelm Kai , Thai Ha Duc , Tuan Hoang The
Published: August 2022

This paper is devoted to studying non-commensurate fractional order planar systems. Our contributions are to derive sufficient conditions for the global attractivity of non-trivial solutions to fractional-order inhomogeneous linear planar systems and for the Mittag-Leffler stability of an equilibrium point to fractional order nonlinear planar systems. To achieve these goals, our approach is as follows. Firstly, based on Cauchy’s argument principle in complex analysis, we obtain various explicit sufficient conditions for the asymptotic stability of linear systems whose coefficient matrices are constant. Secondly, by using Hankel type contours, we derive some important estimates of special functions arising from a variation of constants formula of solutions to inhomogeneous linear systems. Then, by proposing carefully chosen weighted norms combined with the Banach fixed point theorem for appropriate Banach spaces, we get the desired conclusions. Finally, numerical examples are provided to illustrate the effect of the main theoretical results.
Trace regularity for biharmonic evolution equations with Caputo derivatives
Authors: Loreti Paola , Sforza Daniela
Published: August 2022

Our goal is to establish a hidden regularity result for solutions of time fractional Petrovsky systems. The order $$\alpha $$
α
of the Caputo fractional derivative belongs to the interval (1, 2). We achieve such result for a suitable class of weak solutions.
The Divisional Game: Using Procedural Rights to Impede Generic/Biosimilar Market Entry
Authors: Foss-Solbrekk Katarina
Published: August 2022

Despite being used frequently by practitioners in a wide array of technical fields, divisional patent applications (“divisionals”) seldom attract scholarly attention. The lack of scholarly attention is an error, particularly in the pharmaceutical field. Recent case law in the UK reveals that after generic/biosimilar manufacturers successfully revoke patents standing in the way of market entry, divisionals claiming protection for similar subject-matter as the patent that has just been revoked can crop up, hindering generic/biosimilar medicines from entering the market. Moreover, right before or after proceedings start, rightsholders de-designate countries to avoid a negative judgment that may affect a court elsewhere, meaning generic/biosimilar manufacturers initiated legal proceedings for nothing. Such practices demonstrate that divisionals deserve our attention. This article thus fills the scholarly gap by showing how divisionals are (mis)used in practice, before arguing that patent reform is necessary to prevent this from occurring.
Specific Language Impairment, Autism Spectrum Disorders and Social (Pragmatic) Communication Disorders: Is There Overlap in Language Deficits? A Review
Authors: Félix Juliana , Santos Maria Emília , Benitez-Burraco Antonio
Published: August 2022

Analysing language characteristics and understanding their dynamics is the key for a successful intervention by speech and language therapists (SLT). Thus, this review aims to investigate a possible overlap in language development shared by autism spectrum disorders (ASD), specific language impairment (SLI) and social (pragmatic) communication disorder (SPCD). The sources of this work were the PubMed, PsycInfo and SciELO databases, as well as the Scientific Open Access Repositories of Portugal. The final selection included 18 studies, focused on several linguistic areas. Results suggest that when individuals are matched according to some language or cognitive skills, they will also show similar characteristics in other language domains. Future work should be done based on spontaneous speech.
Designing rotationally invariant neural networks from PDEs and variational methods
Authors: Alt Tobias , Schrader Karl , Weickert Joachim , Peter Pascal , Augustin Matthias
Published: August 2022

Partial differential equation models and their associated variational energy formulations are often rotationally invariant by design. This ensures that a rotation of the input results in a corresponding rotation of the output, which is desirable in applications such as image analysis. Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) do not share this property, and existing remedies are often complex. The goal of our paper is to investigate how diffusion and variational models achieve rotation invariance and transfer these ideas to neural networks. As a core novelty, we propose activation functions which couple network channels by combining information from several oriented filters. This guarantees rotation invariance within the basic building blocks of the networks while still allowing for directional filtering. The resulting neural architectures are inherently rotationally invariant. With only a few small filters, they can achieve the same invariance as existing techniques which require a fine-grained sampling of orientations. Our findings help to translate diffusion and variational models into mathematically well-founded network architectures and provide novel concepts for model-based CNN design.
A human learning optimization algorithm with competitive and cooperative learning
Authors: Du JiaoJie , Wang Ling , Fei Minrui , Menhas Muhammad Ilyas
Published: August 2022

Human learning optimization (HLO) is a simple yet powerful metaheuristic developed based on a simplified human learning model. Competition and cooperation, as two basic modes of social cognition, can motivate individuals to learn more efficiently and improve their efficiency in solving problems by stimulating their competitive instincts and increasing interaction with each other. Inspired by this fact, this paper presents a novel human learning optimization algorithm with competitive and cooperative learning (HLOCC), in which a competitive and cooperative learning operator (CCLO) is developed to mimic competition and cooperation in social interaction for enhancing learning efficiency. The HLOCC can efficiently maintain the diversity of the algorithm as well as achieve the optimal values, demonstrating that the proposed CCLO can effectively improve algorithm performance. HLOCC has been compared with other heuristic algorithms on CEC2017 functions. In the second study, the uncapacitated facility location problems (UFLPs) which are one of the pure binary optimization problems are solved with HLOCC. The experimental results show that the developed HLOCC is superior to previous HLO variants and other metaheuristics with its improved exploitation and exploration abilities.
Improved NSGA-II for energy-efficient distributed no-wait flow-shop with sequence-dependent setup time
Authors: Zeng Qing-qing , Li Jun-qing , Li Rong-hao , Huang Ti-hao , Han Yu-yan , Sang Hong-yan
Published: August 2022

This paper addresses a multi-objective energy-efficient scheduling problem of the distributed permutation flowshop with sequence-dependent setup time and no-wait constraints (EEDNWFSP), which have important practical applications. Two objectives minimization of both makespan and total energy consumption (TEC) are considered simultaneously. To address this problem, a new mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) model is formulated. Considering the issues faced in solving large-scale instances, an improved non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm (INSGA-II) is further proposed that uses two variants of the Nawaz-Enscore-Ham heuristic (NEH) to generate high-quality initial population. Moreover, two problem-specific speed adjustment heuristics are presented, which can enhance the qualities of the obtained non-dominated solutions. In addition, four local and two global search operators are designed to improve the exploration and exploitation abilities of the proposed algorithm. The effectiveness of the proposed algorithm was verified using extensive computational tests and comparisons. The experimental results show that the proposed INSGA-II is more effective compared to other efficient multi-objective algorithms.
Multi-view 3D human pose reconstruction based on spatial confidence point group for jump analysis in figure skating
Authors: Tian Limao , Cheng Xina , Honda Masaaki , Ikenaga Takeshi
Published: August 2022

Competitive figure skaters perform successful jumps with critical parameters, which are valuable for jump analysis in athlete training. Driven by recent computer vision applications, recovering 3D pose of figure skater to obtain the meaningful variables has become increasingly important. However, conventional works have suffered from getting 3D information based on the corresponding 2D information directly or leaving the specificity of sports out of consideration. Issues such as self-occlusion, abnormal pose, limitation of venue and so on will result in poor results. Motivated by these problems, this paper proposes a multi-task architecture based on a calibrated multi-camera system to facilitate jointly 3D jump pose of figure skater. The proposed methods consist of three key components: Likelihood distribution and temporal smoothness- based discrete probability points selection filter out the most valuable 2D information; Multi-perspective and combinations unification-based large-scale venue 3D reconstruction is proposed to deal with the multi-camera; multi-constraint-based human skeleton estimation decides the final 3D coordinate from the candidates. This work is proved can be applied to 3D animated display and motion capture of the figure skating competition. The success rate of the independent joint is: 93.38% of 70 mm error range, 92.57% of 50 mm error range and 91.55% of 30 mm error range.
Distributed tracking control of structural balance for complex dynamical networks based on the coupling targets of nodes and links
Authors: Gao Zilin , Li Yongfu , Wang Yinhe , Liu Qingshan
Published: August 2022

In this paper, the complex dynamical networks (CDNs) with dynamic connections are regarded as an interconnected systems composed of intercoupling links’ subsystem (LS) and nodes’ subsystem (NS). Different from the previous researches on structural balance control of CDNs, the directed CDNs’ structural balance problem is solved. Considering the state of links cannot be measured accurately in practice, we can control the nodes’ state and enforce the weights of links to satisfy the conditions of structural balance via effective coupling. To achieve this aim, a coupling strategy between a predetermined matrix of the structural balance and a reference tracking target of NS is established by the correlative control method. Here, the controller in NS is used to track the reference tracking target, and indirectly let LS track the predetermined matrix and reach a structural balance by the effective coupling for directed and undirected networks. Finally, numerical simulations are presented to verify the theoretical results.
Advances in depressants used for pyrite flotation separation from coal/minerals
Authors: Li Yulong , Cheng Gan , Zhang Mengni , Cao Yijun , Von Lau Ee
Published: August 2022

Pyrite is separated from other minerals mainly by flotation. However, the hydrophilicity of pyrite is affected by many factors, causing it to easily enter the concentrate and consequently reduce the quality of concentrate. Highly efficient pyrite depressants can be selectively adsorbed on the surface of pyrite to improve its hydrophilicity, thereby increasing the flotation separation efficiency. Understanding the fundamental inhibition mechanism of depressants on pyrite is a prerequisite to improve the flotation desulfurization efficiency. The inhibition ability and mechanism of different types of pyrite depressants are reviewed in this manuscript. In recent years, molecular simulation has increasingly become a powerful tool to study the interaction between reagents and minerals, shedding new light on the adsorption mechanisms of reagents on mineral surfaces at the atomic and electronic levels. The properties of sulfide mineral and flotation reagents as well as the microscopic adsorption mechanistic studies of reagents on mineral surfaces based on quantum chemistry and molecular simulation are also reviewed.
From Heron of Alexandria to Amazon’s Alexa: a stylized history of AI and its impact on business models, organization and work
Authors: Fanti Lucrezia , Guarascio Dario , Moggi Massimo
Published: August 2022

This paper explores the development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its impact on business models, organization and work. First, we provide astylized historyof AI highlighting the technological, organizational and market-related factors fostering its diffusion and transformative potential. We show how AI evolved from being a scientific field to a mostly corporate-dominated field characterized by strong concentration of technological and economic power. Second, we analyze the consequences of AI adoption for business models, organization and work. Our discussion contributes to show how the development and diffusion of this technological domain gives new strength to the lean-production paradigm - in both manufacturing and service sectors - by contributing to the establishment of the new ‘digital Taylorism’.
CRISPR-Cas12a-Empowered Electrochemical Biosensor for Rapid and Ultrasensitive Detection of SARS-CoV-2 Delta Variant
Authors: Wu Chenshuo , Chen Zhi , Li Chaozhou , Hao Yabin , Tang Yuxuan , Yuan Yuxuan , Chai Luxiao , Fan Taojian , Yu Jiangtian , Ma Xiaopeng , Al-Hartomy Omar A. , Wageh S. , Al-Sehemi Abdullah G. , Luo Zhiguang , He Yaqing , Li Jingfeng , Xie Zhongjian , Zhang Han
Published: August 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a highly contagious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The gold standard method for the diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 depends on quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction till now, which is time-consuming and requires expensive instrumentation, and the confirmation of variants relies on further sequencing techniques. Herein, we first proposed a robust technique-methodology of electrochemical CRISPR sensing with the advantages of rapid, highly sensitivity and specificity for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 variant. To enhance the sensing capability, gold electrodes are uniformly decorated with electro-deposited gold nanoparticles. Using DNA template identical to SARS-CoV-2 Delta spike gene sequence as model, our biosensor exhibits excellent analytical detection limit (50 fM) and high linearity (R2 = 0.987) over six orders of magnitude dynamic range from 100 fM to 10 nM without any nucleic-acid-amplification assays. The detection can be completed within 1 h with high stability and specificity which benefits from the CRISPR-Cas system. Furthermore, based on the wireless micro-electrochemical platform, the proposed biosensor reveals promising application ability in point-of-care testing.
Prediction of moisture diffusion and failure in glass/steel adhesive joints
Authors: Katsivalis Ioannis , Feih Stefanie
Published: August 2022

Glass/steel adhesive joints are being used increasingly in the construction industry as they offer significant structural advantages over conventional mechanical fastener approaches. However, adhesive joints are also known to be sensitive to moisture diffusion into the bondline, which reduces the interfacial bonding strength for hybrid glass/steel substrates. The effect of moisture on the performance degradation of glass/steel adhesive joints has been successfully predicted assuming adhesive property degradation but requires experimental determination of the affected moisture ingress zone. This study utilizes a multi-physics numerical approach implemented via the commercial finite element code Abaqus 2020, which firstly simulates moisture ingress into the adhesive/glass interface and subsequently couples the diffusion effects with a cohesive zone modelling approach for damage initiation and propagation. The numerical predictions are calibrated against experimental data on glass/steel Double Cantilever Beam (DCB) specimens, which are bonded with a ductile methacrylate adhesive (Araldite 2047–1). The modelling approach is then validated against the experimental response of large double lap shear joints of a significantly different bondline geometry. It is demonstrated that the numerical model successfully predicts the critical exposure time for partial to complete joint degradation enabling the development of engineering guidelines for life-time prediction of various joint geometries.
Curbing Discriminating Human Resource Practices—A Microfounded Perspective
Authors: Kunz Jennifer , Ludwig Laura Michele
Published: August 2022

Discrimination constitutes a sticky phenomenon in corporations despite decades of anti-discrimination initiatives. We argue that this stickiness is related to the complex relations between various factors on the micro level in organizations, which determine and stabilize each other. Based on a systematic literature review comprising empirical studies on discrimination due to age, gender, race, and ethnicity/nationality, we find eight general mechanisms which can be further clustered into an economic, a behavioral, and a socio-structural domain. While mechanisms in the behavioral domain form the roots of discrimination, the economic and the socio-structural mechanisms stabilize each other as well as the behavioral ones. Thus, the analysis shows that the various building blocks on the micro level are entangled with each other and suggests a structured way by identifying a problem hierarchy to manage this complexity.
Neighbourhood message passing computation on a lattice with cP systems
Authors: Cooper James , Nicolescu Radu
Published: August 2022

We propose neighbourhood message passing (NMP), an abstract framework for loopy belief propagation (BP), as used in stereo matching (SM). We focus here on generic inter-processing-element messaging over a two-dimensional square grid, but our results apply to lattices of any shape through minimal modification. Specifically, this paper investigates three cP Systems (a type of P systems) models for loopy BP: One based on the classical globally synchronous BP, and two novel variants, (totally) asynchronous and locally synchronous. To model the classic globally synchronous NMP, we extend cP systems messaging rules with antiport features, similar to those used in other P systems. Next, we propose a novel version of NMP by extending it to the asynchronous case. We then derive a locally synchronous NMP variant, which arises naturally as a middle ground between our asynchronous and the classical globally synchronous variants. To clarify the operation of the asynchronous NMP system, we supply a short worked example. Following this, we analyse the proposed asynchronous system and prove that it uses precisely the same number of messages as the globally synchronous variant. We further put forward some runtime and correctness conjectures. Furthermore, we experimentally investigate the asynchronous system’s run-time characteristics. Messages spread from a given location on the lattice similarly in both the asynchronous and synchronous versions, even in the face of slow channels. We also conduct computer experiments and find that, in practice, the locally synchronous system is usually faster than the traditional globally synchronous approach (about 5–13%), and the asynchronous system is typically quicker still (often by approximately another 10%). We thus believe that it is a promising novel approach for faithful implementations of NMP and should be preferred.
Fostering cognitive strategies for learning with 360° videos in history education contexts
Authors: Nachtigall Valentina , Yek Selina , Lewers Elena , Brunnenberg Christian , Rummel Nikol
Published: August 2022

Learning settings in and out of school are increasingly relying on the use of virtual reality applications, such as 360° videos, to make learning an exciting and vivid experience for students. This applies especially to history-learning contexts. Learning with immersive representations of history-related contents requires a critical examination and reflective processing of the learning content. Cognitive strategies, such as organizing and elaborating information correspond with competencies which are assumed to be important for students’ critical examination and reflective processing of history-related content. Research on self-regulated learning (SRL) suggests that the use of cognitive strategies can be promoted through respective SRL trainings. Thus, in the present quasi-experimental study (N = 164), we investigated the effectiveness of a SRL training, which adds to regular instruction on processing history-related learning materials, for students’ use of cognitive strategies when examining immersive history-related 360° videos. Our results show that students who practiced analyzing 360° videos within an explicit SRL training used more cognitive strategies than students who received an implicit SRL training on how to analyze these videos. Further findings suggest that the use of these cognitive strategies probably helped students of the training condition (explicit SRL training) to make less imprecise or trivial analyses and to draw more reflective conclusions than students of the control condition (implicit SRL training). By combining research on SRL and history education, our study may provide a new impulse for empirical research on competence-oriented learning with history-related virtual reality media.
Optimal Management of Irrigation Water from Aquifer and Surface sources
Authors: Quintana-Ashwell Nicolas E. , Gholson Drew M.
Published: August 2022

We explore the economic merits of on-farm water storage with tailwater recovery systems to reduce aquifer depletion in a region with expanding irrigated acreage and substantial off-season precipitation. Gains are substantial on a broad scale and long planning horizon, including more than $4 billion in producer surplus, 5 million acre-feet of conserved groundwater, and land capitalization of $24 per acre. Sensitivity analyses provide insights with respect to the impact of discount rates, rainfed returns, return flows, and aquifer recharge rates. Results can inform stakeholders about the optimal allocation of funds directed at agricultural practice adoption and agricultural water investments.
Group B Streptococcus in the urine in nonpregnant adults: Disease or distraction?
Authors: Mongilardi Nicole , Wilson Brigid M. , Bej Taissa A. , Briggs Janet M. , Banks Richard E. , Song Sunah , Jump Robin L. P. , Perez Federico
Published: August 2022

In this large, retrospective cohort study, we used administrative data to evaluate nonpregnant adults with group B Streptococcus (GBS) bacteriuria. We found greater all-cause mortality in those with urinary tract infections compared to asymptomatic bacteriuria. Differences in patients’ baseline characteristics and the 1-year mortality rate raise the possibility that provider practices contribute to differences observed.
Nonlinear Bragg scattering of surface waves over a two-dimensional periodic structure
Authors: Ning D.Z. , Zhang S.B. , Chen L.F. , Liu H.-W. , Teng B.
Published: August 2022

Bragg scattering of nonlinear surface waves over a wavy bottom is studied using two-dimensional fully nonlinear numerical wave tanks (NWTs). In particular, we consider cases of high nonlinearity which lead to complex wave generation and transformations, hence possible multiple Bragg resonances. The performance of the NWTs is well verified by benchmarking experiments. Classic Bragg resonances associated with second-order triad interactions among two surface (linear incident and reflected waves) and one bottom wave components (class I), and third-order quartet interactions among three surface (linear incident and reflected waves, and second-order reflected/transmitted waves) and one bottom wave components (class III) are observed. In addition, class I Bragg resonance occurring for the second-order (rather than linear) transmitted waves, and Bragg resonance arising from quintet interactions among three surface and two bottom wave components, are newly captured. The latter is denoted class IV Bragg resonance which magnifies bottom nonlinearity. It is also found that wave reflection and transmission at class III Bragg resonance have a quadratic rather than a linear relation with the bottom slope if the bottom size increases to a certain level. The surface wave and bottom nonlinearities are found to play opposite roles in shifting the Bragg resonance conditions. Finally, the results indicate that Bragg resonances are responsible for the phenomena of beating and parasitic beating, leading to a significantly large local free surface motion in front of the depth transition.
Reading Rostow in a Rhodesian Prison: Anticolonialism and the Reinvention of Modernization in British Central Africa
Authors: Traugh Geoffrey
Published: August 2022

This article examines how and why anti-colonial activists in Nyasaland, now Malawi, seized on modernization theory to make their case for national independence in the early 1960s. As far as British officials were concerned, Nyasaland’s small size, large population, and agrarian character meant that it stood little chance of joining the modern, industrialized world. The Malawi Congress Party, however, saw their country differently, as a future “Central African Denmark.” This article argues that Congress’s Danish vision was part of an anti-colonial challenge to the industry-first development strategies that dominated early international development thinking. Congress thinkers, far from rejecting the modernization idea, flipped the framework from industry to agriculture, helping to open new possibilities for small, agrarian territories on the empire’s margins. The article concludes by showing how this agrarian counter-current in development thinking subsequently shaped the international community’s turn to market-friendly, agriculture-centered policies in the 1970s, though in ways that eclipsed the original anti-colonial vision.
First report of Caenorhabditis brenneri (Nematoda: Rhabditida) isolated from the cadaver of Philippinella moellendorffi (Stylommatophora: Ariophantidae), a terrestrial slug in the Philippines
Authors: Dalan L.B. , Diano M.A.B. , Tandingan De Ley I. , Sumaya N.H.N.
Published: August 2022

Gastropod-associated nematodes have been previously studied and documented worldwide, with some species forming host-specific association as obligate parasites of molluscs while others form intermediate and temporary association. Philippinella moellendorffi from Imelda, Zamboanga Sibugay, Philippines, were collected, washed and maintained in the laboratory until death. Cadavers were placed on nutrient agar to allow nematode proliferation. Nematode pure culture was obtained using one gravid female for propagation. Morphology and molecular analyses (18S ribosomal DNA (rDNA) and D2–D3 expansion segments of 28S rDNA) were employed as diagnostic tools in identifying the nematode species isolated from P. moellendorffi. The newly isolated nematode was identified as Caenorhabditis brenneri, thus designated as C. brenneri strain IZSP from the Philippines. This is the first record of C. brenneri isolated from the terrestrial slug P. moellendorffi.
Redescription, deposition of life-cycle stage specimens ofSarcocystis bovifelisHeydorn, Gestrich, Mehlhorn and Rommel, 1975, and amendment toSarcocystis hirsutaMoulé, 1888
Authors: Dubey J. P.
Published: August 2022

There is considerable debate concerning the life cycles and taxonomy ofSarcocystisspecies in cattle. Of the 8 species ofSarcocystisnamed from cattle, 2 (Sarcocystis cruziandSarcocystis heydorni) are morphologically distinctive because their sarcocysts are microscopic and the sarcocyst wall is thin (<0.5μm thick). The sarcocysts of the remaining species (Sarcocystis hirsuta,Sarcocystis hominis,Sarcocystis bovini,Sarcocystis bovifelis,Sarcocystis sinensis,Sarcocystis rommeli) have thick (5–8μm) walls indistinguishable by light microscopy, alone. To provide needed clarity, I herein review the history, nomenclature and life cycle ofS. bovifelis(originally named by Heydorn and associates from Germany), redescribe it and deposit specimens of its various life-cycle stages at a museum for future reference. I also provide means to distinguish this parasite fromS. hirsuta. Cats are the definitive hosts for bothS. bovifelisandS. hirsuta. The sarcocysts ofS. bovifelisare microscopic, its sarcocyst wall is type 10g, it has 2 schizogonic stages in blood vessels and sarcocysts are formed between 25 and 30 days post-inoculation in striated muscles, but not in the heart. Sporulated oocysts are 17.1 × 12.7μm and sporocysts are 12.8 × 8.4μm. The sarcocysts ofSarcocystis hirsutaare macroscopic, up to 7 mm long, its wall is type 18. Nothing is known of the development ofS. hirsutain cattle tissues and in cat intestine. Size of its oocysts and sporocysts is uncertain.
What drives older adults to continue working after official retirement age?
Authors: Tur-Sinai Aviad , Shahrabani Shosh , Lowenstein Ariela , Katz Ruth , Halperin Dafna , Fogel-Grinvald Haya
Published: August 2022

The need to ensure the economic wellbeing and quality of life of those who reach the official retirement age is a matter of concern in the world of social services and in social policy making. Since some working older adults may be forced to retire when they reach the official retirement age while others retire voluntarily, the study is based on a dedicated survey among 508 persons who retired both willingly and unwillingly for good after reaching the official retirement age and 437 persons who continued working uninterruptedly. The findings show that the odds of staying on the job after retirement age are contingent on the socio-demographic and health-related characteristics of the older adult. Furthermore, the economic predictors of remaining in the labour force after retirement age depend on how strongly the older adult wishes to retire. Those who continue working after retirement age and those who retire willingly are undifferentiated in the level of financial support that they give others. Comparing older adults who continue working uninterruptedly with those who retire unwillingly, the chances of being among the former are higher among those who are better off before reaching retirement age. These results emphasise the need to extend welfare and financial-support policies to older adults who are forced to retire, in order to minimise the economic blow that this path to retirement causes.
La métallurgie en 1950
Authors: Strycker Robert De
Published: August 2022

A s'en tenir aux chiffres globaux, il n'y a guère d'écart entre l'activité de la sidérurgie belge en 1950 et au cours de l'année précé-dente. En ce qui concerne la fonte, la différence est de 2 % et impu-table entièrement aux fontes spéciales. Pour l'acier lingot, la réduc-tion n'atteint pas 2 % et porte uniquement sur les qualités les moins courantes : acier Martin et acier électrique. Toutefois, là s'arrête la ressemblance, car si en 1949 la situation au cours du second semestre était moins bonne que pendant le premier, c'est exactement l'inverse que l'on peut constater pour l'année dernière. Il est à peine besoin d'épiloguer sur les causes de ce renversement de la tendance; le déclenchement des hostilités en Corée a été le signal du réveil de la demande. Contrairement à ce que croient les non-initiés, l'armement n'intervient que pour une très faible part dans les livraisons de la sidérurgie belge ou luxembourgeoise à cette date, et même les commandes pour l'armement ne sont guère importantes.
La conjoncture économique de la Belgique
Authors: Woitrin Michel
Published: August 2022

Au cours du dernier trimestre écoulé, le changement des orientations qui se dessinait au milieu de l'année s'est nettement confirmé : le recul des prix s'est poursuivi et a en conséquence affecté des stades traditionnellement mieux abrités de l'économie. C'est ainsi que les prix de détail se sont stabilisés, que la production et l'emploi dans certaines industries se sont déjà légèrement contractés.
L'évolution démographique des communes de I'arrondissement d'Ath depuis un siècle
Authors: Collard Eugène
Published: August 2022

En vue de recherches sociologiques sur la vie religieuse dans le Hainaut, il nous a paru nécessaire de disposer de données démographiques assez détaillées pour chaque commune de cette province. Notamment pour vérifier l'hypothèse selon laquelle la pratique religieuse, dans la mesure où elle dépend de la pression sociale, est fonction du caractère plus ou moins autochtone de la population et du rythme plus ou moins accéléré de l'immigration dans la localité considérée. Le besoin de ces données par commune est d'ailleurs ressenti par d'autres chercheurs.
La conjoncture économique de la Belgique
Authors: Woitrin Michel
Published: August 2022

L'automne de 1951 a été marqué en Belgique et dans une mesure moindre, dans l'ensemble du monde par un raffermissement des prix et de l'activité, alors qu'un certain ralentissement dans l'expansion économique et la hausse des prix était apparu dans les mois antérieurs, à partir du mois de mars 1951.

Cette reprise, comme le repli antérieur, est restée limitée, mais elle s'exprime nettement dans les divers indices de prix ou de quantités; elle apparaît aux divers stades du processus de production et tout spécialement dans l'évolution des échanges internationaux : le surplus commercial qui prit naissance en juin 1951 s'est maintenu et a grandi au cours des mois sous revue et il a nettement influencé la situation financière intérieure.
La conjoncture économique de la Belgique
Authors: Woitrin Michel
Published: August 2022

Dans les premiers mois de 1952, et spécialement à la fin du mois de février, les signes d'un ralentissement conjoncturel modéré se précisent.

Les prix mondiaux des matières premières sont faibles; en Belgique, les prix de gros cessent de se redresser, les cours boursiers sont en net repli, le chômage augmente, la production fléchit dans les industries de consommation, les ventes du commerce de détail sont ralenties.

Dans l'ensemble, l'activité reste cependant très importante et fort supérieure è celle que Ton connaissait en 1949 ou au début de 1950.
Les finances publiques de la Belgique en 1951
Authors: Jussiant Jean
Published: August 2022

L'année 1951 a été, dans son ensemble, une année de grande prospérité pour la Belgique, bien que quelques signes de ralentissement se soient manifestés au cours de l'automne. Ce mouvement de recul s'est accentué au cours du début de l'année 1952, qui verra sans doute une aggravation des problèmes que notre économie, et par contrecoup nos finances publiques, auront à résoudre.

Le chômage a marqué un accroissement certain, l'augmentation saisonnière ayant été cette année notablement plus forte que la précédente. Pour les deux mois de février et mars, 288.000 chômeurs, complets ou partiels, ont en effet été comptés, contre 194.000 en 1951, soit un accroissement de près de 60 %. Ce sont surtout les industries de biens de consommation, et principalement les industries textiles, du vêtement et du cuir, qui ont été atteintes. La vente au détail marque ainsi un certain ralentissement, alors que la bourse fait montre de lourdeur, suivant en cela l'exemple des grands marchés internationaux. Dans l'ensemble du monde, d'ailleurs, les prix de très nombreuses matières premières sont en baisse ou donnent des signes de faiblesse, et, malgré les besoins toujours aussi importants des industries d'armement, l'approvisionnement des consommateurs civils semble plus aisé.
L'industrie charbonnière
Authors: Beerst Christian Joos de ter
Published: August 2022

Durant les six premiers mois de l'année 1950, l'industrie charbonnière belge avait dû faire face au problème de l'écoulement de sa production et de ses stocks. Ce problème était d'ailleurs partiellement et intimement lié au coût élevé du charbon belge qui rendait l'exportation de celui-ci difficile. Malgré des diminutions de prix sur les marchés d'exportations et la régression des effectifs ouvriers résultant de la suspension, depuis le début de l'année 1949, du recrutement de la main-d'œuvre étrangère, les stocks de houille s'accroissaient rapidement ce qui eut pour conséquence l'instauration, en mai 1950, d'un chômage partiel dans les bassins de Campine et du Borinage.
L'agriculture belge en 1951
Authors: Houtte Albert Van
Published: August 2022

Prise dans son ensemble, la situation économique de l'agriculture belge'a évolué de façon plus normale en 1951 qu'au cours de l'année 1950. Si les rendements n'ont pas dépassé la moyenne, les prix ont évolué favorablement sous la pression de la conjoncture internationale et grâce à un certain nombre de mesures prises sur le plan national. Toutefois, certains éléments des coûts de production, notamment les aliments pour le bétail, se sont élevés beaucoup plus rapidement que d'autres, de sorte que l'écart entre l'index des coûts de la production et celui des prix de vente s'est légèrement accentué, montrant ainsi que certaines spéculations ont été défavorisées.
Prix, consommation, balance et revenus
Authors: Baudhuin Fernand
Published: August 2022

1. L'opinion-publique et parlementaire continue à se montrer spécialement chatouilleuse en ce qui concerne le mouvement des prix. Elle semble considérer que la stabilité constitue un objectif à atteindre par tous les moyens. Ceci est assez curieux dans un pays comme la Belgique, qui au cours du premier après-guerre est passé de l'index 100 à 700, et du second après-guerre, de 100 à 400. Et cela n'a empê ché ni le redressement économique après les deux guerres, ni l'élévation du niveau de vie, pas plus que le progrès des salaires réels. Nous devrions avoir l'habitude de telles variations, au lieu de les considérer comme des choses anormales et calamiteuses.
La conjoncture économique de la Belgique
Authors: Woitrin Michel
Published: August 2022

Alors que la fin de l'été et le mois de septembre avaient connu un leger redressement des prix de gros, les mois d'octobre et de novembre ont été caractérisés par un repli net des prix de gros industriels : cependant, le volume de la production industrielle et des échanges extérieurs est à nouveau en reprise : il en est ainsi spécialement dans l'industrie textile.
Le commerce extérieur de l'Union économique belgo-luxembourgeoise en 1957
Authors: Cunchy Alphonse de
Published: August 2022

Les exportations de l'U.E.B.L. ont atteint en 1957 un nouveau chiffre record: 159 milliards de francs. Il convient cependant d'ajouter que le taux d'accroissement comparativement à l'année précédente n'a été que de 0,7 % contre 13,8 % en 1956 et que le volume de nos ventes à l'étranger a même diminué de 5,4 %, alors qu'en 1956, il s'était maintenu au même niveau qu'en 1955. En fait, l'année sous revue n'a done pas apporté une réelle augmentation, mais plutôt une stabilisation des résultats de 1956.
Les finances privées en 1958
Authors: Van Mollekot Paul
Published: August 2022

Une analyse rationnelle de la situation économique et financière de notre pays ne peut se faire qu'à la lumière de l'évolution mondiale et en particulier de celle de nos principaux partenaires du Marché Commun.

Au milieu de l'année 1957 l'économie était marquée par un état très net de tension. Le monde avait atteint un sommet : quasi plein emploi, prix et taux d'intérêts élevés. Mais les signes précurseurs de la récession étaient présents : la baisse violente des matières premières et les réactions du baromètre boursier jouèrent, pour ceux qui voulurent le comprendre, le rôle de sonnette d'alarme. Le rythme de l'activité industrielle se ralentit d'abord aux Etats-Unis qui subirent, à partir du 4e trimestre, une importante récession dont on craignit l'extension progressive. De nombreux pays exportateurs, comme le nôtre, la Suisse, les Pays-Bas, furent également atteints dès 1957; au Royaume-Uni la production restait stationnaire. L'Allemagne, l'Italie, la France voyaient leur rythme d'expansion atténué. C'est aux Etats-Unis que le recul de la production fut le plus sensible : le même phénomène s'était déjà constaté lors de la récession de 1953.
L'industrie textile beige en 1958
Authors: Placq Gérard
Published: August 2022

Au cours de l'année 1958, l'industrie textile belge a continué à ressentir profondément les effets de la récession conjoncturelle qui avait débuté au second semestre de 1957. Elle a eu d'autant plus de difficulté à y faire face et à en supporter les inévitables conséquences qu'elle n'avait bénéficié que modérément des avan-tages de la haute conjoncture.

Au contraire de ce qui s'était produit antérieurement, la grande variété de fibres utilisées, la multiplicité des fabrications et la diversité d'usages auxquelles elles sont destinées, n'a pas eu comme effet de provoquer des évolutions divergentes de secteur à secteur. La crise de 1958 fut générale et affecta pratiquement toutes les branches et tous les stades de la production, entraînant une réduction d'activité de 17 % en moyenne par rapport à l'année 1957.
Prix, corisommation, balance et revenus en 1958
Authors: Baudhuin Fernand
Published: August 2022

Une fois de plus, le mouvement général des prix n'a apporté aucune surprise durant l'année 1958. Il a traduit d'une part la récession économique mondiale avec la baisse du prix des matières premières, et d'autre part, certaines particularités propres à l'économie belge. L'événement a confirmé en tout cas que l'Exposition de Bruxelles, dont on avait dit qu'elle provoquerait une explosion de hausses, surtout dans les produits de consommation, a été absolument sans influence sur le niveau des prix intérieurs.

Cependant, l'affluence des étrangers semble avoir été celle qui était prévue, et le commerce intérieur en a été largement stimulé. Seule l'hôtellerie a éprouvé quelques déceptions, les étrangers ayant de préférence multiplié des visites de courte durée, facilitées par les communications extrêmement rapides qu'offre l'ouest du Continent. Quant aux prix pratiqués à cette occasion, ils ont été dans l'ensemble modérés, avec cependant des exceptions regrettables, qui ont constitué pour certains observateurs étrangers une occasion de dénigrement que ne justifiait certainement pas la situation dans son ensemble.
La conjoncture économique de la Belgique
Authors: Thür Otto
Published: August 2022

L'économie américaine connaît, au cours du premier sêmestre de 1959, une reprise rapide. La production industrielle atteint, puis dépasse le maximum d'avant la dépression, l'emploi s'améliore sensiblement, les investissements industriels et le restockage augmentent avec vigueur.

Comparée au rythme de la reprise américaine, la conjoncture des pays européens est beaucoup plus calme et les gains en production industrielle restent beaucoup plus modérés. Le premier trimestre donne, pour la production des six pays membres de la C.E.E., à peu près le même résultat que la période correspondante de l'année passée. Le second trimestre enregistre une légère amélioration, l'accroissement global pouvant être estimé à quelque 3% (1). Cette amélioration porte souvent sur les biens d'investissements et les biens de consommation durables et semi-durables (essentiellement les produits textiles). Le recul européen est resté relativement modéré pendant la période de dépression, aussi des capacités de production importantes ne furent guère libérées et les revenus globaux sont demeurés stables, sinon en accroissement : une augmentation de la demande, même légère, provoque donc nécessairement de nouveaux investissements. En plus de la demande intérieure, la demande étrangère s'est avérée également remarquablement ferme.
L'économie congolaise en 1957
Authors: Koutny Emile
Published: August 2022

La formation des revenus au Congo beige est basée pour une grande part sur les ressources obtenues grâce à l'exportation des produits coloniaux. De même, l'utilisation des revenus à des fins de consommation et surtout à des fins d'investissement dépend largement des produits importés de l'étranger. L'évolution du commerce extérieur exerce done une influence déterminante sur la situation économique générale du Congo beige.
Auf Wiedersehen!
Authors: O'Sullivan Donal
Published: August 2022

IT is a commonplace of contemporary life that international conferences are a potent factor in promoting the comity of nations, especially when these gatherings are devoted to the arts of peace. But there are two conditions for success: one is that the preparation shall be adequate, the other is that opportunities shall be given for social relaxation, for the making of new friendships and the renewal of old. At the Ninth Annual Conference of the International Folk Music Council, these conditions were so amply fulfilled that the Conference must be one of the most successful that the Council has ever held. The major credit is due to Miss Maud Karpeles, on whose capable shoulders fell, as always, the chief burden of organisation, and, in Germany, to Herr Egon Kraus of Cologne and those willing helpers whom he recruited in our service.
Ethnomusicology at Hamburg, 1956
Authors: Bose Fritz
Published: August 2022

The International Musicological Congress in Hamburg in September, 1956, devoted one of its four general subjects to "Ethnological Music Research," thereby indicating the significance of this young branch of musicology.

From the aspect of folklore, the Hamburg ethnologist Kunz Dittmer spoke on the role of music in universal ethnology. He emphasised the views of modern ethnology against the origin and evolution theories of the cultural groups doctrine held by the Viennese school, and against the isolated consideration of individual characteristic of style. He pleaded for an integral conception of the culture of foreign races, most particularly of primitive races.