bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microbleeds in Alzheimer’s Disease: A Neuropsychological Overview and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Sepehry Amir A. , Rauscher Alexander , Hsiung Ging-Yuek , Lang Donna J.
Published: September 2016

The current literature on the role of brain microbleeds (MB) on the neuropsychological outcomes of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is heterogeneous. We therefore meta-analytically examined the neuropsychological literature pertaining to MBs in AD. Using a priori selected criteria, studies with cross-sectional neuropsychological assessment on MBs and AD were reviewed. Six of 122 studies met selection criteria and provided neuropsychological data on either AD with MB and without MB, or in contrast to healthy controls. The global neuropsychological difference between AD with MB and AD without MB based on random effect model was nonsignificant, heterogeneous, and small (Effect Size =−0.155; 95% confidence interval =−0.465 to 0.155; p value =0.326; Heterogenity: Q-value =12.744; degrees of freedom =5; p =0.026; I2 =61%). The contribution of MBs to cognitive deficits in AD remains unclear. Future studies of MB in AD should strive to use standardized neuroimaging techniques with high sensitivity for MB, a common standard for MB definition, and neuropsychological tests sensitive for detecting subtle cognitive impairment.
A BILINEAR RUBIO DE FRANCIA INEQUALITY FOR ARBITRARY SQUARES
Authors: BENEA CRISTINA , BERNICOT FRÉDÉRIC
Published: September 2016

We prove the boundedness of a smooth bilinear Rubio de Francia operator associated with an arbitrary collection of squares (with sides parallel to the axes) in the frequency plane$$\begin{eqnarray}(f,g)\mapsto \biggl(\mathop{\sum }_{\unicode[STIX]{x1D714}\in \unicode[STIX]{x1D6FA}}\biggl|\int _{\mathbb{R}^{2}}\hat{f}(\unicode[STIX]{x1D709}){\hat{g}}(\unicode[STIX]{x1D702})\unicode[STIX]{x1D6F7}_{\unicode[STIX]{x1D714}}(\unicode[STIX]{x1D709},\unicode[STIX]{x1D702})e^{2\unicode[STIX]{x1D70B}ix(\unicode[STIX]{x1D709}+\unicode[STIX]{x1D702})}\,d\unicode[STIX]{x1D709}\,d\unicode[STIX]{x1D702}\biggr|^{r}\biggr)^{1/r},\end{eqnarray}$$provided$r>2$. More exactly, we show that the above operator maps$L^{p}\times L^{q}\rightarrow L^{s}$whenever$p,q,s^{\prime }$are in the ‘local$L^{r^{\prime }}$’ range, that is,$$\begin{eqnarray}\frac{1}{p}+\frac{1}{q}+\frac{1}{s^{\prime }}=1,\quad 0\leqslant \frac{1}{p},\frac{1}{q}<\frac{1}{r^{\prime }},\quad \text{and}\quad \frac{1}{s^{\prime }}<\frac{1}{r^{\prime }}.\end{eqnarray}$$Note that we allow for negative values of$s^{\prime }$, which correspond to quasi-Banach spaces$L^{s}$.
Global Mental Health: sharing and synthesizing knowledge for sustainable development
Authors: O'Donnell K. , O'Donnell M. Lewis
Published: September 2016

Global mental health (GMH) is a growing domain with an increasing capacity to positively impact the world community's efforts for sustainable development and wellbeing. Sharing and synthesizing GMH and multi-sectoral knowledge, the focus of this paper, is an important way to support these global efforts. This paper consolidates some of the most recent and relevant ‘context resources’ [global multi-sector (GMS) materials, emphasizing world reports on major issues] and ‘core resources’ (GMH materials, including newsletters, texts, conferences, training, etc.). In addition to offering a guided index of materials, it presents an orientation framework (global integration) to help make important information as accessible and useful as possible. Mental health colleagues are encouraged to stay current in GMH and global issues, to engage in the emerging agendas for sustainable development and wellbeing, and to intentionally connect and contribute across sectors. Colleagues in all sectors are encouraged to do likewise, and to take advantage of the wealth of shared and synthesized knowledge in the GMH domain, such as the materials featured in this paper.
“Bundle” Practices and Ventilator-Associated Events: Not Enough
Authors: O’Horo John C. , Lan Haitao , Thongprayoon Charat , Schenck Louis , Ahmed Adil , Dziadzko Mikhail , Gajic Ognjen , Sampathkumar Priya
Published: September 2016

OBJECTIVE

Ventilator-associated events (VAEs) are nosocomial events correlated with length of stay, costs, and mortality. Current ventilator bundle practices target the older definition of ventilator-associated pneumonia and have not been systematically evaluated for their impact on VAEs.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

Tertiary medical center between January 2012 and August 2014.

PARTICIPANTS

All adult patients ventilated for at least 24 hours at our institution.

INTERVENTIONS

We conducted univariate analyses for compliance with each element; we focused on VAEs occurring within a 2-day window of failure to meet any ventilator bundle element. We used Cox proportional hazard models to assess the effect of stress ulcer prophylaxis, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) prophylaxis, oral care, and sedation breaks on VAEs. We adjusted models for gender, age, and Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) III scores.

RESULTS

Our cohort comprised 2,660 patients with 16,858 ventilator days and 77 VAEs. Adjusting for APACHE score and gender, only oral care was associated with a reduction in the risk of VAE (hazard ratio [HR], 0.44; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.26–0.77). The DVT prophylaxis and sedation breaks did not show any significant impact on VAEs. Stress ulcer prophylaxis trended toward an increased risk of VAE (HR, 1.59; 95% CI, 1.00–2.56).

CONCLUSION

Although limited by a low baseline rate of VAEs, existing ventilator bundle practices do not appear to target VAEs well. Oral care is clearly important, but the impact of DVT prophylaxis, sedation breaks, and especially stress ulcer prophylaxis are questionable at best.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2016;1453–1457
Staatsolie's VISION 2030: the contributions of petroleum geology to Surinamese society
Authors: Nelson August
Published: September 2016

Staatsolie Maatschappij Suriname N.V., together with the gold mining industry, has gradually become a major contributor to the Surinamese economy since the decline of the alumina industry. In the last 35 years, about 110MMbbls (million barrels) of crude oil have been produced. Staatsolie is now in the early stages of fulfilling its VISION 2030, which is not only aimed at increased exploration and production but also at power generation, further diversification and regional expansion. The basis for achieving these goals is accelerated on- and offshore exploration, followed by growth in production. The offshore region remains a frontier area, with only a few wells drilled. Current production is about 17,000bopd (barrels of oil per day). Between 2007 and 2014, Staatsolie has spent about US$120 million on exploration. An integrated study for the Suriname–Guyana Basin carried out by Staatsolie in 2009 demonstrated the upside potential of this basin from a source rock potential perspective, which has been proven by both the Liza-1 oil discovery offshore of Guyana in 2015 and the Zaedyus-1 oil discovery offshore of French Guiana in 2011.

Staatsolie is now focusing its efforts on the near-shore area, where it recently concluded a five-well drilling programme, following a 3-D seismic survey. In the deep offshore area, international oil companies (IOCs) are actively pursuing the next discovery in the Atlantic Margin, partly driven by the conjugate-margin theory geologically linking South America and West Africa.

Staatsolie is also attempting to increase recovery from the most mature and largest oilfield, the Tambaredjo Field, through Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) technologies of which polymer flooding is deemed the most suitable, with estimated potential incremental recovery of up to 12%.

Staatsolie recognises the role of a highly skilled and motivated workforce and therefore continues investing in its people through internal as well as external training. Thirty-five years after it was founded by Mr Eddy Jharap, a geologist by training and the first Managing Director of the company, it can be stated that Staatsolie has taken its place in Surinamese society as a significant contributor to the economy, a preferred employer, a nucleus for industrial spin-off and an example for other companies.
Scientific Goals of the Kunlun Infrared Sky Survey (KISS)
Authors: Burton Michael G. , Zheng Jessica , Mould Jeremy , Cooke Jeff , Ireland Michael , Uddin Syed Ashraf , Zhang Hui , Yuan Xiangyan , Lawrence Jon , Ashley Michael C. B. , Wu Xuefeng , Curtin Chris , Wang Lifan
Published: September 2016

The high Antarctic plateau provides exceptional conditions for infrared observations on account of the cold, dry and stable atmosphere above the ice surface. This paper describes the scientific goals behind the first program to examine the time-varying universe in the infrared from Antarctica — the Kunlun Infrared Sky Survey (KISS). This will employ a 50cm telescope to monitor the southern skies in the 2.4μmKdark window from China's Kunlun station at Dome A, on the summit of the Antarctic plateau, through the uninterrupted 4-month period of winter darkness. An earlier paper discussed optimisation of the Kdark filter for sensitivity (Li et al. 2016). This paper examines the scientific program for KISS. We calculate the sensitivity of the camera for the extrema of observing conditions that will be encountered. We present the parameters for sample surveys that could then be carried out for a range of cadences and sensitivities. We then discuss several science programs that could be conducted with these capabilities, involving star formation, brown dwarfs and hot Jupiters, exoplanets around M dwarfs, the terminal phases of stellar evolution, fast transients, embedded supernova searches, reverberation mapping of AGN, gamma ray bursts and the detection of the cosmic infrared background.
Compatibility of Atmospheric 14CO2 Measurements: Comparing the Heidelberg Low-Level Counting Facility to International Accelerator Mass Spectrometry (AMS) Laboratories
Authors: Hammer Samuel , Friedrich Ronny , Kromer Bernd , Cherkinsky Alexander , Lehman Scott J , Meijer Harro A J , Nakamura Toshio , Palonen Vesa , Reimer Ron W , Smith Andrew M , Southon John R , Szidat Sönke , Turnbull Jocelyn , Uchida Masao
Published: September 2016

Combining atmospheric Δ14CO2 data sets from different networks or laboratories requires secure knowledge on their compatibility. In the present study, we compare Δ14CO2 results from the Heidelberg low-level counting (LLC) laboratory to 12 international accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) laboratories using distributed aliquots of five pure CO2 samples. The averaged result of the LLC laboratory has a measurement bias of –0.3±0.5‰ with respect to the consensus value of the AMS laboratories for the investigated atmospheric Δ14C range of 9.6 to 40.4‰. Thus, the LLC measurements on average are not significantly different from the AMS laboratories, and the most likely measurement bias is smaller than the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) interlaboratory compatibility goal for Δ14CO2 of 0.5‰. The number of intercomparison samples was, however, too small to determine whether the measurement biases of the individual AMS laboratories fulfilled the WMO goal.
SOCIO-DEMOGRAPHIC FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH DIETARY BEHAVIOUR AMONG YOUNG GHANAIANS AGED 15–34 YEARS
Authors: Amoateng Acheampong Yaw , Doegah Phidelia Theresa , Udomboso Christopher
Published: September 2016

This study used data from the 2008 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey to investigate the association between selected socio-demographic factors and dietary behaviour as measured by fruit and vegetable consumption among a sample of 6139 young people aged 15–34 years in Ghana. Overall, fruit and vegetable consumption was low in young people, but females were likely to consume more fruit and vegetables than their male counterparts. Respondents from the Mande ethnic group, those who resided in rural areas and those living in the Brong/Ahafo, Ashanti and the Eastern regions consumed more fruit and vegetables than those from other regions. Females who were Catholic/Anglican, Methodist/Presbyterian and Pentecostal/Charismatic were more likely than those of other religions to consume fruit and vegetables, while Muslim males generally consumed more fruit and vegetables. The findings point to the need for interventions to educate young people in Ghana about the health benefits of eating fruit and vegetables.
Persistent organic pollutants and porphyrin levels in excreta of penguin colonies from the Antarctic Peninsula area
Authors: Jara-Carrasco Solange , Barra Ricardo , Espejo Winfred , Celis José E. , González-Acuña Daniel , Chiang Gustavo , Sánchez-Hernández Juan
Published: September 2016

Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and their effects on Antarctic seabirds by using excreta as a non-destructive biomonitoring tool have received little consideration. Here we determine the levels of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and some organochlorine pesticides such as dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethanes (DDTs), hexachlorobencene (HCB), heptachlor, and endrin aldehyde in penguin excreta. Animal exposure to these environmental contaminants was determined through porphyrins in penguin droppings. Stool samples of Adélie penguin (Pygoscelis adeliae), chinstrap penguin (Pygoscelis antarctica) and gentoo penguin (Pygoscelis papua) were collected on two locations of the Antarctic Peninsula area: Base O´Higgins (Antarctic Peninsula) and Ardley Island (King George Island). Despite POPs have been banned more than three decades ago, the levels (ng g−1ww) of PCBs (1.45-2.35), DDTs (1.33-1.76), HCB (0.51-1.70), endrin (0.48-0.71) and heptachlor (0.97-2.40) showed that these pollutants are still present in Antarctica. Porphyrin levels in excreta (4.6-6.7 nmol g−1dw) were significantly correlated to POPs, indicating certain chemical exposure on penguin colonies that inhabit the Antarctic Peninsula area. The levels of heptachlor found in penguin guano may be affecting some biota in terrestrial sites next to nesting places. Further studies and better understanding of POPs impact on animal performance in Antarctic biota are recommended.
High burden of genetic conditions diagnosed in a cardiac neurodevelopmental clinic
Authors: Goldenberg Paula C. , Adler Betsy J. , Parrott Ashley , Anixt Julia , Mason Karen , Phillips Jannel , Cooper David S. , Ware Stephanie M. , Marino Bradley S.
Published: September 2016

Background

There is a known high prevalence of genetic and clinical syndrome diagnoses in the paediatric cardiac population. These disorders often have multisystem effects, which may have an important impact on neurodevelopmental outcomes. Taken together, these facts suggest that patients and families may benefit from consultation by genetic specialists in a cardiac neurodevelopmental clinic.

Objective

This study assessed the burden of genetic disorders and utility of genetics evaluation in a cardiac neurodevelopmental clinic.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was conducted of patients evaluated in a cardiac neurodevelopmental clinic from 6 December, 2011 to 16 April, 2013. All patients were seen by a cardiovascular geneticist with genetic counselling support.

Results

A total of 214 patients were included in this study; 64 of these patients had a pre-existing genetic or syndromic diagnosis. Following genetics evaluation, an additional 19 were given a new clinical or laboratory-confirmed genetic diagnosis including environmental such as teratogenic exposures, malformation associations, chromosomal disorders, and single-gene disorders. Genetic testing was recommended for 112 patients; radiological imaging to screen for congenital anomalies for 17 patients; subspecialist medical referrals for 73 patients; and non-genetic clinical laboratory testing for 14 patients. Syndrome-specific guidelines were available and followed for 25 patients with known diagnosis. American Academy of Pediatrics Red Book asplenia guideline recommendations were given for five heterotaxy patients, and family-based cardiac screening was recommended for 23 families affected by left ventricular outflow tract obstruction.

Conclusion

Genetics involvement in a cardiac neurodevelopmental clinic is helpful in identifying new unifying diagnoses and providing syndrome-specific care, which may impact the patient’s overall health status and neurodevelopmental outcome.
Disaster Impact on Impoverished Area of US: An Inter-Professional Mixed Method Study
Authors: Banks Linda H. , Davenport Lisa A. , Hayes Meghan H. , McArthur Moriah A. , Toro Stacey N. , King Cameron E. , Vazirani Hazel M.
Published: September 2016

Introduction

In the foothills of the Cumberland Mountains, in central Appalachia (a region that spans 13 states in the US), sits an economically distressed and rural community of the United States. Once a thriving coal-mining area, this region now is reported as one of the hardest places to live in the US. Southeastern Kentucky, located in a remote, rocky, mountainous area surrounded by rivers and valleys and prone to flooding, experienced a major flood in Spring 2013 causing significant damage to homes and critical infrastructure.

Purpose

Aims of the study were to: (1) identify and better understand the contextual variables compounding the impact of a disaster event that occurred in Spring 2013; (2) identify ways participants managed antecedent circumstances, risk, and protective factors to cope with disaster up to 12 months post-event; and (3) further determine implications for community-focused interventions that may enhance recovery for vulnerable populations to promote greater outcomes of adaptation, wellness, and readiness.

Methods

Using an ethnographic mixed-methods approach, an inter-collaborative team conducted face-to-face interviews with (N=12) Appalachian residents about their disaster experience, documented observations and visual assessment of need on an observation tool, and used photography depicting structural and environmental conditions. A Health and Emergency Preparedness Assessment Survey Tool was used to collect demographic, health, housing, environment, and disaster readiness assessment data. Community stakeholders facilitated purposeful sampling through coordination of scheduled home visits.

Results

Triangulation of all data sources provided evidence that the community had unique coping strategies related to faith and spirituality, cultural values and heritage, and social support to manage antecedent circumstances, risk, and protective factors during times of adversity that, in turn, enhanced resilience up to 12 months post-disaster. The community was found to have an innate capacity to persevere and utilize resources to manage and transcend adversity and restore equilibrium, which reflected components of resilience that deserve greater recognition and appreciation.

Conclusion

Resilience is a foundational concept for disaster science. A model of resilience for the rural Appalachia community was developed to visually depict the encompassing element of community-based interventions that may enhance coping strategies, mitigate risk factors, integrate protective factors, and strengthen access. Community-based interventions are recommended to strengthen resilience, yielding improved outcomes of adaptation, health and wellness, and disaster readiness.

BanksLH, DavenportLA, HayesMH, McArthurMA, ToroSN, KingCE, VaziraniHM. Disaster impact on impoverished area of US: an inter-professional mixed method study. Prehosp Disaster Med. 2016;31(6):583–592.
Women’s Mental Health and Intimate Partner Violence Following Natural Disaster: A Scoping Review
Authors: Bell Sue Anne , Folkerth Lisa A.
Published: September 2016

Introduction

Survivors of natural disasters in the United States experience significant health ramifications. Women particularly are vulnerable to both post-disaster posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression, and research has documented that these psychopathological sequelae often are correlated with increased incidence of intimate partner violence (IPV). Understanding the link between these health concerns is crucial to informing adequate disaster response and relief efforts for victims of natural disaster.

Purpose

The purpose of this review was to report the results of a scoping review on the specific mental health effects that commonly impact women following natural disasters, and to develop a conceptual framework with which to guide future research.

Methods

A scoping review of mental and physical health effects experienced by women following natural disasters in the United States was conducted. Articles from 2000-2015 were included. Databases examined were PubMed, PsycInfo, Cochrane, JSTOR, Web of Science, and databases available through ProQuest, including ProQuest Research Library.

Results

A total of 58 articles were selected for inclusion, out of an original 149 that were selected for full-text review. Forty-eight articles, or 82.8%, focused on mental health outcomes. Ten articles, or 17.2%, focused on IPV.

Discussion

Certain mental health outcomes, including PTSD, depression, and other significant mental health concerns, were recurrent issues for women post-disaster. Despite the strong correlation between experience of mental health consequences after disaster and increased risk of domestic violence, studies on the risk and mediating factors are rare. The specific challenges faced by women and the interrelation between negative mental health outcomes and heightened exposure to IPV following disasters require a solid evidence base in order to facilitate the development of effective interventions. Additional research informed by theory on probable health impacts is necessary to improve development/implementation of emergency relief policy.

BellSA,FolkerthLA.Women’s mental health and intimate partner violence following natural disaster: a scoping review.Prehosp Disaster Med.2016;31(6):648–657.
Demand for Plants Sold in North Carolina Garden Centers
Authors: Abdelmagid Banaga D. , Wohlgenant Michael K. , Safley Charles D.
Published: September 2016

Demand for selected nursery plants sold in North Carolina (i.e., begonia, dianthus, geranium, impatiens, marigold, petunia, and vinca) was found to be affected more by prices than by income, demographic, and other variables. By using cross-sectional data, a modified AIDS model, incorporating demographic variables and quadratic income response, was estimated. Inverse Mills's ratios were also included in the model to correct for selectivity bias, resulting from zero purchases. Significant own-price elasticities ranged from − 0.71 to − 1.65, and income elasticities ranged from − 0.78 to 0.41.
A Note on Nonlinearity Bias and Dichotomous Choice CVM: Implications for Aggregate Benefits Estimation
Authors: Souter R.A. , Bowker J.M.
Published: September 2016

It is a generally known statistical fact that the mean of a nonlinear function of a set of random variables is not equivalent to the function evaluated at the means of the variables. However, in dichotomous choice contingent valuation studies a common practice is to calculate an overall mean (or median) by integrating over offer space (numerically or analytically) an estimated logit or probit function in which sample mean values for the concomitant variables are used. We demonstrate this procedure to be incorrect and we statistically test the procedure against the correct method for nonlinear models. Using data resulting in a well-behaved logit model, we reject the hypothesis of congruence between the two means. Such a finding should be considered in future single response dichotomous choice CVM studies, particularly when aggregation is of interest.
The Role of Economic Analysis in Local Government Decisions: The Case of Solid Waste Management
Authors: Halstead John M. , Park William M.
Published: September 2016

The issue of solid waste management has risen to national prominence in the last decade, fueled by increasing waste disposal costs and changing public attitudes. This situation presents a major opportunity for economists to use their applied microeconomics skills to assist state and local governments manage waste in a cost effective fashion. While findings from formal research efforts may ultimately make their way into the decision-making process, perhaps economists can play an even more significant role in emphasizing the importance of the most basic economic concepts and principles for sound decision making in solid waste management or the many other areas in which local public choices are made. These areas would include at least the following: opportunity cost, marginal analysis of costs and benefits, and the role of economic incentives.
An Adaptive Model of Perishable Inventory Dissipation in a Nonstationary Price Environment
Authors: Vukina Tomislav , Anderson James L.
Published: September 2016

The paper develops an adaptive model of perishable commodity dissipation based on the individual's price expectations and risk perception. A two-step, state-space procedure for modeling nonstationary time series is presented. The method combines an impulse response model for estimating deterministic components with an innovations model for the remaining stationary stochastic noise. Combined parameters are used to generate forecasts and to derive a measure of risk in a nonstationary price environment. Defined as the variance (covariance) of out-of-sample forecast error, the measure of risk is the difference between the historical estimate of the stationary noise auto-covariance and the variance (covariance) of out-of-sample forecasts. The optimal marketing strategy for a hypothetical salmon processor who sells to Japanese wholesalers is developed to illustrate the model. The solution is obtained using quadratic programming algorithm.
An Experiment in Contingent Valuation and Social Desirability
Authors: Laughland Andrew S. , Musser Wesley N. , Musser Lynn M.
Published: September 2016

Social desirability (SD) represents the problem of subjects responding with social norms rather than individual values. This paper briefly surveys the SD literature and considers its relevance for contingent valuation (CV) studies. In an empirical study, undergraduate students were administered the Mariowe-Crowne Social Desirability Scale, as well as CV questions. High SD scores were hypothesized to imply a greater likelihood of offering a protest reason for a zero bid and to increase bids for socially desirable commodities. While all hypotheses were not supported, the empirical results suggest that SD can influence CV responses and should not be dismissed prematurely.
The Effects of Increasing Flex Acres on Farm Planning and Profitability
Authors: Duffy Patricia A. , Taylor C. Robert
Published: September 2016

Dynamic programming techniques were used to evaluate the effects of alternative levels of normal flex acreage requirements on a Midwestern corn-soybean farm and a Southeastern cotton farm. Results indicate that increasing normal flex acres from the current level of 15 percent to 35 percent would provide inducement for farmers in both regions to plant more soybeans. In general, the cotton farm incurs considerably higher expected losses from the change. Thus, there are unequal regional consequences of such a policy change.
An Analysis of U.S. Dairy Policy Deregulation using an Imperfect Competition Model
Authors: Suzuki Nobuhiro , Kaiser Harry M. , Lenz John E. , Forker Olan D.
Published: September 2016

An imperfect competition model of the U.S. milk market is developed for analyzing the impacts of dairy policy deregulation. Estimated degree-of-competition parameters indicate that the U.S. milk market has become more competitive over time. The usefulness of the model is demonstrated by showing the relative differences of dynamic simulation results of the imperfect competition model with the results of a conventional exogenous fluid differential model.
Commercial Agriculture in Metropolitan Areas: Economics and Regulatory Issues
Authors: Gardner Bruce L.
Published: September 2016

Metropolitan agriculture is economically important, especially in the Northeast. While faced with substantial economic and regulatory obstacles, commercial farming in urban areas is surviving and even prospering. In terms of standard models of agriculture in economic development, this is a puzzle. But more detailed, spatial economic models indicate how labor-intensive production of perishable commodities in urbanized areas can make economic sense, especially when coupled with environmental amenities that farming generates for nonfarm people. At the same time, environmental disamenities of agriculture are larger in densely populated areas. The political economy outcomes have tended to be favorable to continued farming, albeit with increased regulation. Nonetheless, many questions remain about the dynamics of agricultural adjustment to urbanization, and the possible steady-state mix of farm and nonfarm activities.
Explaining Deer Population Preferences: An Analysis of Farmers, Hunters and the General Public
Authors: Curtis John , Lynch Lori
Published: September 2016

Wildlife managers must consider the public's preferences for wildlife population levels when determining management policies. In 1996, Maryland farmers, hunters and the general public were surveyed to determine their preferences for increasing, maintaining, or decreasing deer population numbers. Using a random utility theoretic framework with an ordered response probit model, the factors that explain preferences such as residential location, socioeconomic characteristics, landscape damage, agricultural yield loss and vehicle accidents were analyzed.
Economic Insights into the Siting Problem: An Application of the Expected Utility Model
Authors: Halstead John M. , Whitcomb Joanna L. , Hamilton Lawrence C.
Published: September 2016

Despite the generally recognized need for facilities such as power plants, landfills, prisons, and medical laboratories, finding host sites has become extremely difficult. This study uses the expected utility (EU) model to explain individuals’ preferences in the hypothetical case of siting a municipal solid waste composting facility. The three principal factors which EU theory prescribes would affect the decision process—benefits of the proposed facility, losses from the facility, and the (perceived) probability of various scenarios occurring—embodied by the variables in a multinomial logit model explain a substantial amount of the variation in siting decisions.
The Kyoto Protocol: Economic Effects of Energy Prices on Northern Plains Dryland Grain Production
Authors: Antle John M. , Capalbo Susan M. , Johnson James B. , Miljkovic Dragan
Published: September 2016

This study examined possible economic impacts on Northern Plains grain producers of policies that could be undertaken by the United States to comply with the Kyoto Protocol. The paper begins with a discussion of the potential effects of the Kyoto Protocol on prices of energy and inputs used in agricultural production. The next section describes the data and econometric models that were used to develop a field-scale, stochastic simulation model of the crop production system typical of the Northern Plains. This model is based on econometric production models estimated with a spatially referenced, statistically representative sample of farmers in Montana. The simulation analysis shows that the impacts of higher energy prices would tend to discourage the use of fallow, raise variable costs of production by 3 to 13%, and reduce net returns above variable cost by 6 to 18% in the case of spring wheat grown on fallow. Under the higher cost scenarios assumed in an analysis conducted by the Farm Bureau, production costs for spring wheat on fallow would increase by 15 to 27% and net returns would decline by 15 to 24%.
The Use of Follow-Up Questions to No Responses in Dichotomous Choice Contingent Valuation Surveys
Authors: Curtis John A.
Published: September 2016

The dichotomous choice contingent valuation survey format collects inexact information on willingness to pay (WTP), that is, whether WTP is greater or less than the bid price. Sometimes researchers make the precise conjecture that certain respondents have zero WTP using information from follow-up motive questions. But follow-up questions are designed to provide information on respondents’ motives, not refined information on the magnitude of WTP. Assuming that certain respondents have WTP = $0.00 is beyond the design of follow-up questions. The paper's results show that unless information from follow-up questions is utilized within the limitations of survey design, welfare and model parameter estimates are likely to have high standard errors leading to inappropriate policy prescriptions.
Labor Productivity Growth in the Kansas Farm Sector: A Tripartite Decomposition Using a Non-Parametric Approach
Authors: Mugera Amin W. , Langemeier Michael R. , Featherstone Allen M.
Published: September 2016

We use nonparametric production function methods to decompose farm-level labor productivity growth into components attributable to efficiency change, technical change, and factor intensity. The estimation is accomplished using balanced panel data drawn from the Kansas Farm Management Association for the period 1993 to 2007. We find that labor productivity growth is primarily driven by factor intensity and technical change. Efficiency change is declining with increasing productivity growth, and technical change is not Hicks-neutral and occurs at high levels of factor intensity, suggesting that innovation is embodied in factor intensity.
Evaluation of Crop Insurance Yield Guarantees and Producer Welfare with Upward-Trending Yields
Authors: Adhikari Shyam , Knight Thomas O. , Belasco Eric J.
Published: September 2016

Actual Production History (APH) yields play a critical role in determining the coverage offered to producers by the Risk Management Agency's yield-based crop insurance products. Using both county and individual insured unit data, we examine the impact of APH yield trends for Texas cotton and Illinois com. Our findings indicate that biases due to using simple average APH yields when yields are trending upward reduce the expected indemnity and actuarially fair premium rate. The estimated welfare effect also varies significantly with different commonly used detrending approaches. This study demonstrates that producer welfare can be enhanced through proper treatment of yield trends in crop insurance programs.
New Varieties and the Returns to Commodity Promotion: The Case of Fuji Apples
Authors: Richards Timothy J. , Patterson Paul M.
Published: September 2016

The Fuji apple variety is relatively new in the U.S. As a new product, questions concern the relative impact of consumer learning by experience, by variety-specific promotion, or by generic apple promotion. A two-stage (LES/LAIDS) model incorporating both types of promotion is used to estimate the effect of generic and variety specific promotion, as well as consumer experience, on the demand for Fuji apples. Estimates show each to have a positive impact, and also show new or specialty apple varieties to be relatively price inelastic, but income elastic. Grower returns to promotion are calculated with an equilibrium displacement model of price changes and producer surplus. Changes in producer surplus provide a base-scenario benefit:cost ratio of 6.33:1.
Tariff Rate Quotas in The EU
Authors: Bureau Jean-Christophe , Tangermann Stefan
Published: September 2016

The European Union has opened tariff rate quotas (TRQs) after the Uruguay Round (UR), following the agreement that minimum access should be provided and current access not be restricted. The EU TRQs are described and their origin is explained. Descriptive statistics are provided in order to assess the implementation of the market access provisions of the 1994 UR Agreement. Transparency of the EU TRQ system and fill rates of TRQs are examined. Overall, the EU's record in the area of TRQs is relatively satisfactory, compared with those of other countries. Concerns remain, however, as to the exact articulation of the (regional) Europe Agreement and some quotas under minimum access.
Opening Markets while Maintaining Protection: Tariff Rate Quotas in Korea and Japan
Authors: Choi Jung-Sup , Sumner Daniel A.
Published: September 2016

As the result of Uruguay Round negotiations, Korea and Japan established tariff rate quotas (TRQs) for agricultural imports. Both countries allocate the TRQs with various methods that show different fill rates and welfare implications. The state trading enterprises play important roles in TRQ administration in both countries. The TRQs contributed to increased imports. However, the transparency and commercial consideration in administering the TRQs remain a concern and the access for some commodities seems to be less open than would be the case if quota amounts were made available on a purely commercial basis.
A Review of Tariff Rate Quota Administration in Canadian Agriculture
Authors: Barichello Richard R.
Published: September 2016

To analyze Canada's Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ) administration, a model of efficient quota administration is put forward. After examining the operation of the Canadian TRQ system for its twenty-one TRQs, conclusions are drawn. In general this system has worked well in Canada. The quotas are almost all filled, and the administration is transparent and not costly for quota-holders to use. Among the international lessons from Canada's experience are that few WTO rules may be needed in this area, aside from steps to ensure the TRQ is fully available to users and can be freely transferred among them.
The Environmental Impacts of Trade Liberalization: A Quantitative Analysis for the United States Using TEAM
Authors: Creason Jared , Fisher Michael , Semenova Svetlana , Stone Susan F.
Published: September 2016

A highly disaggregated emissions factor model is presented. The model generates changes in emissions and resource use by state and 6-digit NAICS sector. Removal of all U.S. import restrictions is examined. Results for agriculture show that composition effects explain highly varied regional patterns of emission changes. Scale effects are also important for expanding sectors. Quantitative assessments such as this may prove useful in conducting full environmental reviews of U.S. trade agreements consistent with Executive Order 13141 and the Free Trade Act of 2002.
Innovation and Regulation in the Pesticide Industry
Authors: Ollinger Michael , Fernandez-Cornejo Jorge
Published: September 2016

This paper examines the impact of pesticide regulation on the number of new pesticide registrations and pesticide toxicity. Results suggest that regulation adversely affects new pesticide introductions but encourages the development of pesticides with fewer toxic side effects. The estimated regression model implies that a 10% increase in regulatory costs (about $1.5 million per pesticide) causes a 5% reduction in the number of pesticides with higher toxicity.
Land Values, Market Forces, and Declining Dairy Herd Size: Evidence from an Urban-Influenced Region
Authors: Adelaja Adesoji O. , Miller Tracy , Taslim Mohammad
Published: September 2016

The role of land values in the dairy industry of an urban-influenced region is investigated by estimating a dairy herd equation based on pooled cross-section and time-series data from counties in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New York. The use of cross-terms between hypothesized causal variables and a dummy variable capturing the effect of location allowed the estimation of the differences across states in the effects of milk, feed, and land prices. Results confirm the important role of rising land values in the decline of the dairy industry in the tri-state area, and suggest greater vulnerability of dairy enterprises in urban-influenced areas to rising adverse economic forces. The adverse effects of declining milk prices and higher land values are greatest in New Jersey. The results support the notion that programs such as price support, farmland preservation, farmland assessment, and right-to-farm may have to be maintained in order to retain dairy farms at the urban fringe, where land values are rising rapidly.
Using Spatial Information to Reduce Costs of Controlling Agricultural Nonpoint Source Pollution
Authors: Carpentier C.L. , Bosch D.J. , Batie S.S.
Published: September 2016

Reducing costs of controlling nonpoint source (NPS) pollution will be a high public priority in the next century. Compliance and transaction costs of reducing nitrogen runoff from dairies in the Lower Susquehanna Watershed by 40% are estimated for perfectly targeted and uniform performance standards. The perfectly targeted standard reduces compliance and transaction costs by almost 75% compared with the uniform standard. Future NPS control policies should use spatial information to target policy resources to priority concerns, areas, and farms. Further research is needed to lower the costs and increase the accuracy of spatial information.
A Pseudo-Sequential Choice Model for Valuing Multi-Attribute Environmental Policies or Programs in Contingent Valuation Applications
Authors: Volinskiy Dmitriy , Bergstrom John C. , Cornwell Christopher M. , Holmes Thomas P.
Published: September 2016

The assumption of independence of irrelevant alternatives in a sequential contingent valuation format should be questioned. Statistically, most valuation studies treat nonindependence as a consequence of unobserved individual effects. Another approach is to consider an inferential process in which any particular choice is part of a general choosing strategy of a survey respondent. A stochastic model is suggested, consistent with the reflexivity, transitivity, and continuity axioms of utility analysis. An application of this theoretical model to the valuation of watershed ecosystem restoration demonstrates that an empirical model recognizing reflexivity and transitivity, and also allowing for continuity, shows the highest in-sample predictive ability.
Willingness to Pay for Water Quality Improvements in the United States and Canada: Considering Possibilities for International Meta-Analysis and Benefit Transfer
Authors: Johnston Robert J. , Thomassin Paul J.
Published: September 2016

This paper presents a multinational meta-analysis estimated to identify systematic components of willingness to pay for surface water quality improvements, developed to support benefit transfer for Canadian policy development. Metadata are drawn from stated preference studies that estimate WTP for water quality changes affecting aquatic life habitats—a type of study with few Canadian examples. The goals of this paper are to assess the properties of a multinational (United States/Canada) meta-analysis compared to a single-country (U.S.) analog; illustrate the potential information that may be derived as well as the analytical challenges; and assess the performance of resulting meta-functions for benefit transfer.
An Insurance Approach to Risk Management in the Ethanol Industry
Authors: Paulson Nicholas D. , Babcock Bruce A. , Hart Chad E. , Hayes Dermot J.
Published: September 2016

The vast majority of crop and revenue insurance policies sold in the United States are singlecrop policies that insure against low yields or revenues for each crop grown on the farm. But, increasingly, producer income is based more on the value of crops that have been converted into a value-added product such as ethanol. Moreover, the recent increases in energy and commodity price levels and volatilities emphasize the importance of risk management to ethanol investors. This paper uses an insurance approach to outline a risk management tool which mimics the gross margin level of a typical corn-based ethanol plant. The gross margin, premium, and indemnity levels are calculated on a per bushel basis to enable producers/investors to utilize the product based on their ownership share in the production facility. The fair premium rates are shown to be quite sensitive with respect to corn and energy price levels and volatilities.
Economic Analysis of Supplemental Deductible Coverage as Recommended in the USDA's 2007 Farm Bill Proposal
Authors: Mitchell Paul D. , Knight Thomas O.
Published: September 2016

A primary change to crop insurance contained in the USDA's Farm Bill proposal is supplemental deductible coverage (SDC). SDC would allow farmers who purchase individual crop insurance coverage to purchase area-wide coverage in the amount of the individual policy deductible. This supplemental area-wide coverage would be similar to the existing Group Risk Plan policy, but with an accelerated indemnity schedule. Analysis indicates that SDC increases farmer certainty equivalents. The largest benefits are realized by farmers with high yield potential in counties with greater systemic risk. In general, optimal individual policy coverage levels modestly decrease when SDC is taken.
Agroenvironmental Economic Research for the 21st Century: Anticipating and Responding to Change
Authors: Smith Katherine Reichelderfer
Published: September 2016

It is proposed that “real” research issues are socially relevant, provide findings with utility beyond the profession, and are anticipatory. An industrializing agricultural sector, an evolving political economy of agroenvironmental policy, an increasingly transnational economy, and rapid population growth are important sources of change to which research on real agroenvironmental issues must respond. Specific, identified “real” research issue areas include: benefit-risk assessment methodology; agroenvironmental regulation for industrialized agriculture; trade agreements and environmental quality; the recreation-tourism-agriculture interface; sustainable development; and the formation of preferences. The nature of identified issues suggests more interdisciplinary research, and advances in theory and methodology.
Environmental Economic Research Has an Audience But Not a Sponsor: Discussion
Authors: Kealy Mary Jo
Published: September 2016

There exists no mechanism for federal agencies, national laboratories, industry, and academic institutions to set a national environmental research agenda. Moreover, funding for social science research is inadequate for providing a sound scientific basis for making environmental policy. Despite this lack of leadership, it is quite possible to define an environmental economic research agenda that could lead to improved policies for protecting and managing the environment. The present paper makes some recommendations from an insider's viewpoint.
Geographic Information Systems and Applied Economics: An Initial Discussion of Potential Applications and Contributions
Authors: Taupier Richard , Willis Cleve
Published: September 2016

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are becoming increasingly important to virtually all of the natural and social sciences. Applied economists will find that GIS can make valuable contributions to many of the problems with which they are concerned. Moreover, a great deal of the science behind GIS technology would benefit from the contributions of applied economists. This paper presents some initial suggestions for the ways in which GIS may be important to economics and the GIS related issues concerning which applied economists could provide useful insights.
The Effect of Managerial Ability on Farm Financial Success
Authors: Ford Stephen A. , Shonkwiler J. S.
Published: September 2016

The effects of managerial ability on farm financial success are analyzed for a 1990 sample of Pennsylvania commercial dairy farms using structural latent variable techniques. Latent factors related to dairy, crop, and financial management are used with herd size to explain farm financial success, measured by net farm income. Results indicate the relative importance of each management variable toward farm financial success.