bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Practice Patterns for Prophylaxis and Treatment of Venous Thromboembolism in German Cancer Patients
Authors: Matzdorff Axel , Ledig Bettina , Stuecker Markus , Riess Hanno
Published: March 2016

Background: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a serious threat for cancer patients. Guidelines recommend low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) for prophylaxis and treatment, but it is unknown to what extent specialists adhere to these recommendations. This survey assesses the current approach to patients with cancer-associated VTE in Germany. Materials and Methods: A questionnaire was sent out to members of the DGHO (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Hämatologie und Onkologie), the BNHO (Berufsverband Niedergelassener Hämatologen und Onkologen) and the DGP (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Phlebologie). For most questions, more than 1 answer was possible; therefore, the total sum of percentages may exceed 100%. Results: 275 specialists responded. 76% of them treat acute VTE with LMWH while 22% switch to oral treatments (vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) or non-VKA oral anticoagulants (NOACs)) during the acute phase. For the next 3-6 months, 55% of the specialists continue LMWH, while 31% switch to VKAs and 33% to NOACs. Among those who continue LMWH for 3-6 months, 37% continue at the full dose, 26% reduce to 75% of the initial dose, and 40% even to 50%. Important factors guiding treatment decisions were the need for injections and the availability of a partner/spouse (LMWH), the need for laboratory controls (VKAs), and the number of other oral medications (NOACs). Conclusion: This survey reveals that practice patterns often do not follow the guideline recommendations with respect to the use of LMWH for long-term treatment of VTE in cancer patients.
Thyroid Ultrasound-Guided Fine-Needle Aspiration: The Positive Influence of On-Site Adequacy Assessment and Number of Needle Passes on Diagnostic Cytology Rate
Authors: de Koster Elizabeth J. , Kist Jakob W. , Vriens Menno R. , Borel Rinkes Inne H.M. , Valk Gerlof D. , de Keizer Bart
Published: March 2016

Objective: Nondiagnostic cytology is the most important limitation of thyroid ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration (US-FNA). This study aimed to identify factors associated with the adequacy rate of thyroid US-FNA. Study Design: Consecutive thyroid US-FNAs (2006-2013) were retrospectively included. Attending radiologists, radiology fellows and radiology residents performed US-FNA, usually involving 2-3 needle passes. In more recent years, rapid on-site adequacy assessment (ROSAA) was performed to ensure specimen adequacy. US characteristics, procedural variations and cytology results were extracted from US and pathology reports and statistically evaluated. Results: Diagnostic cytology was obtained in 64.6% of 1,381 thyroid US-FNAs. Factors associated with nondiagnostic cytology were ROSAA (74.6% diagnostic cytology, OR 0.55, 95% CI 0.42-0.71), ≥3 clinic visits for US-FNA of the same thyroid nodule (54.7%, OR 1.56, 95% CI 1.16-2.10) and increased intranodular vascularization (51.8%, OR 1.73, 95% CI 1.17-2.57). With ROSAA, an increasing number of needle passes demonstrated improving adequacy rates. The adequacy rate was not operator-dependent. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that ROSAA improves the adequacy rate of thyroid US-FNA. Without ROSAA, we recommend performing at least 3 needle passes. Less diagnostic cytology is obtained from nodules with increased intranodular vascularization or from those undergoing US-FNA ≥3 times.
Doxorubicin Blocks Cardiomyocyte Autophagic Flux by Inhibiting Lysosome Acidification
Authors: Li Dan L. , Wang Zhao V. , Ding Guanqiao , Tan Wei , Luo Xiang , Criollo Alfredo , Xie Min , Jiang Nan , May Herman , Kyrychenko Viktoriia , Schneider Jay W. , Gillette Thomas G. , Hill Joseph A.
Published: March 2016

Background—

The clinical use of doxorubicin is limited by cardiotoxicity. Histopathological changes include interstitial myocardial fibrosis and the appearance of vacuolated cardiomyocytes. Whereas dysregulation of autophagy in the myocardium has been implicated in a variety of cardiovascular diseases, the role of autophagy in doxorubicin cardiomyopathy remains poorly defined.

Methods and Results—

Most models of doxorubicin cardiotoxicity involve intraperitoneal injection of high-dose drug, which elicits lethargy, anorexia, weight loss, and peritoneal fibrosis, all of which confound the interpretation of autophagy. Given this, we first established a model that provokes modest and progressive cardiotoxicity without constitutional symptoms, reminiscent of the effects seen in patients. We report that doxorubicin blocks cardiomyocyte autophagic flux in vivo and in cardiomyocytes in culture. This block was accompanied by robust accumulation of undegraded autolysosomes. We go on to localize the site of block as a defect in lysosome acidification. To test the functional relevance of doxorubicin-triggered autolysosome accumulation, we studied animals with diminished autophagic activity resulting from haploinsufficiency for
Beclin 1
.
Beclin 1
+/−
mice exposed to doxorubicin were protected in terms of structural and functional changes within the myocardium. Conversely, animals overexpressing Beclin 1 manifested an amplified cardiotoxic response.

Conclusions—

Doxorubicin blocks autophagic flux in cardiomyocytes by impairing lysosome acidification and lysosomal function. Reducing autophagy initiation protects against doxorubicin cardiotoxicity.
Ideal Cardiovascular Health and Cognitive Aging in the Northern Manhattan Study
Authors: Gardener Hannah , Wright Clinton B. , Dong Chuanhui , Cheung Ken , DeRosa Janet , Nannery Micaela , Stern Yaakov , Elkind Mitchell S. V. , Sacco Ralph L.
Published: March 2016

Background

The American Heart Association defined target levels for 7 cardiovascular health (
CVH
) factors: smoking, body mass index, physical activity, diet, blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose. We hypothesized that a greater number of American Heart Association ideal
CVH
metrics would be associated with less decline in cognitive performance in our multiethnic population.

Methods and Results

A subsample from the population‐based Northern Manhattan Study underwent repeated neuropsychological testing (mean interval 6±2 years). Domain‐specific
Z
scores were derived by using factor analysis for the domains of Episodic Memory, Semantic Memory, Executive Function, and Processing Speed, based on initial performance and decline over time. Linear regression models were constructed to examine the relationship between the number of ideal
CVH
metrics at enrollment with later cognitive performance and decline, adjusting for sociodemographics and magnetic resonance imaging brain markers. Among 1033 participants (mean age at initial cognitive assessment 72±8 years, 39% male, 19% black, 16% white, 65% Hispanic; n=722 with repeat testing), 3% had 0 ideal factors, 15% had 1 factor, 33% had 2 factors, 30% had 3 factors, 14% had 4 factors, 4% had 5 factors, 1% had 6 factors, and 0% had 7 factors. An increasing number of ideal
CVH
factors was associated with better processing speed at initial assessment and less decline. The association was driven by nonsmoking and glucose. Among those with better cognitive performance at initial assessment, positive associations were observed between the number of ideal
CVH
factors and less decline in the domains of Executive Function and Episodic Memory.

Conclusions

The number of ideal
CVH
metrics was associated with less decline in the domains of Processing Speed and, to a lesser extent, of Executive Function and Episodic Memory. Ideal
CVH
promotion benefits brain health and cognitive aging.
cDNA cloning, characterization and mRNA expression of cryptocyanin from the Chinese mitten crab, Eriocheir sinensis H. Milne Edwards, 1853
Authors: Wang Xingqiang , Wang Lingling , Wang Mengqiang , Zhang Huan , Song Linsheng
Published: March 2016

Cryptocyanin is a copper-free non-respiratory protein and plays an important role in the physiological process of decapod crustaceans. In the present study, the full length cDNA encoding cryptocyanin (EsCc) was cloned from the haemocytes of the Chinese mitten crab Eriocheir sinensis, which was 2630 bp, consisting of a 5′-untranslated region of 237 bp, a 3′-untranslated region of 359 bp, and an open reading frame of 2034 bp. The deduced protein possessed 678 amino-acid residues, and the predicted molecular mass was 79.09 kDa. The phylogenetic analysis revealed that it belonged to the arthropod haemocyanin superfamily and shared 78% homology to Dungeness crab Metacarcinus magister cryptocyanin subunit 2. The expression pattern of EsCc in five tissues was investigated in premoult, intermoult and postmoult stages to understand its role during the moulting cycle. In hepatopancreas, the significant up-regulation of EsCc expression was observed in both premoult and intermoult stages, while the significant change of EsCc expressions in muscle and haemocytes was only found in premoult stages. To gain insight into the antimicrobial activity of EsCc in inflammatory processes, its expression profiles in the haemolymph of Chinese mitten crab challenged with Vibrio anguillarum and Pichia pastoris were examined. The challenge of V. anguillarum induced higher expression of EsCc as early as 6 h post-infection. Instead, a significant up-regulation of EsCc transcript was observed at 12 h post P. pastoris challenge. The above results implied that crustacean cryptocyanin was involved in the new exoskeleton formation. Also, it might be induced to resist invasions of pathogens.
Resurrection and redescription of Hatschekia cylindrica Shiino, 1957 (Copepoda, Siphonostomatoida, Hatschekiidae), with description of its developmental stages
Authors: Izawa Kunihiko
Published: March 2016

Hatschekia cylindrica Shiino, 1957 is resurrected and redescribed based on newly obtained specimens, and all developmental stages except copepodid II are described based on free-living larvae reared from eggs detached from ovigerous females, as well as on both sexes of copepodids III-V recovered together with adults from Pseudolabrus sieboldi Mabuti & Nakabo, 1997 (Pisces, Labridae). There are three naupliar stages preceding the infective copepodid I and the sexes are distinct after copepodid III, as in the two other species of Hatschekia studied thus far in this respect.
Labour Market Access for Asylum Seekers and Refugees under the Common European Asylum System
Authors: Weber Franziska
Published: March 2016

The paper identifies a policy inconsistency between the eu’s asylum and the eu’s labour migration policies and makes a call for stronger convergence. The analysis starts off by setting out the eu’s current and future economic challenges with a view to its ageing population and low fertility rates, which displays the eu’s need for migrants. Two trends can be observed: The lacking success of Europe’s highly-skilled regime, i.e. the Blue Card scheme, casts doubts on the suitability of the eu’s labour migration policy and its ability to meet the eu’s labour market’s needs this way. Labour market access for people that come to the eu to seek asylum on the other hand is subject to quite a number of restrictions. The lack of coordination seems short-sighted. In an attempt to advocate for stronger coherence the paper sets out the rights to access the eu labour market of those who come to the eu as asylum seekers in detail and explores reform potential where these rights can be expanded consistent with the eu’s labour market needs. It looks at eu law in general and refers to Germany as an implementation example.
Can Minimal Autonomy Legitimate Coercive Institutions?
Authors: Dietsch Peter
Published: March 2016

The central thesis of Hassoun’s book states that coercive international institutions, in order to be legitimate, must ensure sufficient autonomy for those subject to them. While part i analyses the theoretical structure of this argument, part ii aims to assess its practical implications in the contexts of aid and trade. This effort to bridge the gap between theory and practice is welcome, even though the connection could be strengthened further. At the core of Hassoun’s theoretical stance lies the innovative idea of a sufficientarian account of the legitimacy of coercive institutions. This review suggests that, in contrast to a sufficientarian theory of the just distribution of material resources, relying on a sufficientarian view in the context of legitimacy is more controversial. Following the discussion of some more specific theoretical issues, the review closes with an evaluation of Hassoun’s proposal of a fair trade certification system for pharmaceutical companies.
The taxonomic status of Tantilla marcovani Lema 2004 (Squamata: Colubridae)
Authors: MATA-SILVA VICENTE , WILSON LARRY DAVID
Published: March 2016

The colubrid snake genus Tantilla currently comprises 62 valid species distributed from the southern United States of America to southern Bolivia in the west, and Uruguay and northern Argentina in the east (Wilson & Mata-Silva 2014, 2015). Of these 62 species, 13 are found in South America (Wilson & Mata-Silva 2014, 2015). The most recently described of these Southamerican species is Tantilla marcovani Lema, 2004. While we were working on a checklist and key to the members of the Tantilla clade (sensu Holm 2008, including the genera Geagras Cope 1876, Scolecophis Fitzinger 1843, Tantilla Baird & Girard 1853, and Tantillita Smith 1941; Wilson & Mata-Silva 2015), it became apparent that the diagnosis of T. marcovani entirely falls to distinguish this nominal taxon from the widespread and extensively variable T. melanocephala Linnaeus 1758. Tantilla melanocephala, as presently envisioned, is the most broadly distributed member of its genus (Wilson & Mena 1980; Savage 2002; Greenbaum et al. 2004), occurring from Panama southward into the major portion of the South American continent, apart from Chile and southern Argentina.
A new genus and species of chigger mite (Trombidiformes: Trombiculidae) from Loxodontomys pikumche (Rodentia: Cricetidae) in Chile
Authors: FUENTE MARÍA CAROLINA SILVA-DE LA , CASANUEVA MARÍA EUGENIA , SALAS LUCILA MORENO , GONZÁLEZ-ACUÑA DANIEL
Published: March 2016

The family Trombiculidae is one of the most diverse and cosmopolitan (Walter et al. 2009). In Chile, the family Trombiculidae is represented by six genera associated with reptiles: Eutrombicula Ewing; Microtrombicula Ewing; Paratrombicula Goff & Whitaker; Whartonacarus (Brennan & Jones); Diaguitacarus Stekolnikov & González-Acuña and Proschoengastia Vercammen-Grandjean and two genera associated with rodents Chilacarus Webb, Bennett & Loomis and Poliremotus Brennan & Goff (Stekolnikov & González-Acuña 2015).
Improvement in Functioning and Psychological Distress in Adolescents With Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome Following Interdisciplinary Treatment
Authors: Bruce Barbara K. , Harrison Tracy E. , Bee Susan M. , Luedtke Connie A. , Porter Co-Burn J. , Fischer Philip R. , Hayes Sarah E. , Allman Daniel A. , Ale Chelsea M. , Weiss Karen E.
Published: March 2016

Significant functional impairment and psychological distress have been observed in adolescent patients with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS). Interdisciplinary rehabilitation programs have been shown to be beneficial in the treatment of chronic pain in adults and adolescents. Only preliminary data have examined interdisciplinary rehabilitation efforts in patients with POTS. This study evaluated the impact of an interdisciplinary rehabilitation program on the functional impairment and psychological distress in 33 adolescents diagnosed with POTS. Patients included in the study were adolescents ages 11 to 18 diagnosed with POTS. Measures completed at admission and discharge from the program included the Functional Disability Index, Center for Epidemiological Studies–Depression–Child scale, and the Pain Catastrophizing Scale for Children. After participation in the 3-week program, adolescents with POTS demonstrated a significant increase in overall functional ability and significant reductions in depression and catastrophizing.
Taking Over Control From Highly Automated Vehicles in Complex Traffic Situations
Authors: Gold Christian , Körber Moritz , Lechner David , Bengler Klaus
Published: March 2016

Objective:

The aim of this study was to quantify the impact of traffic density and verbal tasks on takeover performance in highly automated driving.

Background:

In highly automated vehicles, the driver has to occasionally take over vehicle control when approaching system limits. To ensure safety, the ability of the driver to regain control of the driving task under various driving situations and different driver states needs to be quantified.

Methods:

Seventy-two participants experienced takeover situations requiring an evasive maneuver on a three-lane highway with varying traffic density (zero, 10, and 20 vehicles per kilometer). In a between-subjects design, half of the participants were engaged in a verbal 20-Questions Task, representing speaking on the phone while driving in a highly automated vehicle.

Results:

The presence of traffic in takeover situations led to longer takeover times and worse takeover quality in the form of shorter time to collision and more collisions. The 20-Questions Task did not influence takeover time but seemed to have minor effects on the takeover quality.

Conclusions:

For the design and evaluation of human–machine interaction in takeover situations of highly automated vehicles, the traffic state seems to play a major role, compared to the driver state, manipulated by the 20-Questions Task.

Application:

The present results can be used by developers of highly automated systems to appropriately design human–machine interfaces and to assess the driver’s time budget for regaining control.
A microstructural approach for modelling flexural properties of long glass fibre reinforced polyamide6.6
Authors: Lafranche E , Coulon A , Krawczak P , Ciolczyk JP , Gamache E
Published: March 2016

This paper focuses on the development and the validation of flexural modulus and flexural strength predictive models of long glass fibre reinforced polyamide 6.6 (PA66). Based on previous injection moulding optimization of 40 wt% long glass fibre PA66, a microstructure analysis was investigated on glass fibre reinforced PA66 by varying the parameters of the material (fibre length, fibre content, fibre diameter). In a first phase, analytical models established within the framework of the processing condition limits previously determined have been elaborated. These models lead to a good experimental/calculation correlation but remain limited to a mould and part design. In a second phase the flexural modulus and maximal flexural stress have been then estimated from structural models based on a five layer morphological description of the composites (local residual fibre length, local fibre content and fibre orientations). The long glass fibre PA66 composites were characterized in terms of fibre content distribution model and fibre orientation model through the part thickness. The experimental/model correlation was achieved whatever the process variability is (mould, material and processing conditions) both for the flexural modulus or flexural strength. The models have been then validated with an industrial part. Finally, a correlation between the two studied properties has been revealed depending on the nature of the composite matrix (PA66, PA6 or PP).
Provoking Reflective Thinking in Post Observation Conversations
Authors: Kim Younhee , Silver Rita Elaine
Published: March 2016

We present a micro-analysis of post observation conversations between classroom teachers and mentors. Using the approach of conversation analysis, we show how the sequential organization of an episode (i.e., who initiates the interaction, question format used by mentors) could potentially serve to provoke or hinder teacher reflection. Our analysis reveals the different stances adopted by mentor and teacher during potentially discomfiting episodes, the relationship between the structure of initial questions, and the impact of question types on elicited teacher responses/reflections. Implications for handling this type of interaction for more effective professional development collaborations are discussed.
Are the core values of the radiological protection system shared across cultures?
Authors: Zölzer F.
Published: March 2016

In spite of ongoing globalisation in many fields, the ethics of radiological protection have long been discussed almost exclusively in terms of ‘Western’ moral philosophy concepts such as utilitarianism or deontology. A cross-cultural discourse in this field is only just beginning. In ‘Principles of Biomedical Ethics’, Beauchamp and Childress suggested that there exists a ‘common morality’ which is ‘not relative to cultures or individuals, because it transcends both’. They proposed four cross-culturally valid principles for decision making in medicine: respect for autonomy, non-maleficence, beneficence, and justice. A similar approach is being developed by the International Commission on Radiological Protection Task Group 94 on the ethics of radiological protection. Here, the core values are: human dignity, beneficence/non-maleficence, prudence, and justice. Other values could be added, such as consideration for the interests of society as a whole or the interests of future generations, or procedural values such as transparency and accountability; this paper will include a brief discussion on how they relate to the four basic principles. The main question to be addressed here, however, is whether the proposed core values are indeed part of a ‘common morality’. This, as it will be argued, cannot be decided by a global opinion poll, but has to be based on an analysis of the written and oral traditions that have provided ethical orientation throughout history, and are still considered seminal by the majority of people. It turns out that there are indeed many commonalities across cultures, and that the concept of globally shared core values for the radiological protection system is not hopelessly idealistic.
Perceived Conduct and Professional Ethics among College Economics Faculty
Authors: Laband David N. , Piette Michael J.
Published: March 2016

We present survey results that shed light on the perceived frequency and severity of 61 professional practices. Our findings, based on questionnaires completed by 728 academic economists in the United States, suggest that most of the practices that might be considered ethically suspect also are perceived to occur relatively infrequently. The mean values for the responses to our survey are significantly lower, in absolute terms, than those recorded by Mason et al. (1990), who conducted an almost identical survey in 1987 of marketing academicians. However, in relative terms the perceived severity of these practices is highly consistent between economics faculty and marketing faculty.
Service-Learning and the Economics Course: Theory and Practice
Authors: McGoldrick KimMarie , Battle Ann , Gallagher Suzanne
Published: March 2016

Service-learning has grown in popularity as a pedagogical alternative in many liberal arts based educational settings. While many disciplines have embraced this new approach, the economics discipline seems slow to respond to this educational trend. This paper overviews the recent reexamination of the economics classroom including a discussion of the links between active, experiential, and service-learning. The authors then provide a detailed application of one form of service-learning, student-based instruction, for a managerial economics course.
Do Dollars Make a Difference? The Relationship between Expenditures and Test Scores in Pennsylvania's Public Schools
Authors: Klick Jonathan
Published: March 2016

For the past three decades it has been evident that the quality of public schools in the United States has been on the decline. Whether measured empirically against the systems of other countries or judged anecdotally by employers who believe today's high school graduates do not have the skills requisite for even entry-level work, it becomes clear there is something wrong with the current public school system. The education establishment claims the problem is a lack of funding, while many tax payer groups claim more money is not the answer. This study uses data from each of Pennsylvania's 501 school districts to look at the relationship between funding and achievement while controlling for the economic background of each school's student population, as well as other organizational characteristics.
Rent Seeking in Academia: The Consultancy Disease
Authors: Faria João Ricardo
Published: March 2016

The Consultancy disease is a type of rent seeking behavior in academia, and occurs when scholars spend time searching and working in public and private consultancies. It is shown that the Consultancy disease leads to lower equilibrium levels of academic work. Higher standards for scientific productivity and publications help to fight the disease.
Contributions of Howard S. Ellis to the Controversy concerning Economic Growth: 1940–1955
Authors: Herren Robert Stanley
Published: March 2016

This paper examines ideas of Howard S. Ellis, a former president of the American Economic Association, regarding debates of the 1940s and 1950s concerning policies that could affect economic growth. I compare Ellis's ideas with those of Keynesians such as Alvin Hansen, who emphasized using expansionary fiscal policy, and Leon Keyserling who emphasized structural reform. I then compare Ellis's views with recent mainstream thinking as reflected in Economic Reports to the President. Ellis's views concerning economic growth appear to be more in line with views of mainstream economists who have served on recent CEAs than with views of Keynesian economists of his day. (JEL Categories: B22, B3, E5)
Rice, Salmon or Sushi? Political Competition for Supply of a Regulated Input
Authors: Kahane Leo H.
Published: March 2016

This paper describes a simple theoretical model of competing interest groups and uses a modified Cournot model with endogenous policy. The focus is on how different assumptions over internal lobby group organization affect the outcome of lobby competition. The results of the paper formalize some of the basic tenets and propositions contained in Olson's (1965) The Logic of Collective Action and provides a more explicit, game-theoretic structure for examining issues raised by Becker in his (1983) paper A Theory of Competition Among Pressure Groups for Political Influence.
The Mundell-Fleming Model Revisited
Authors: Fan Liang-Shing , Fan Chuen-Mei
Published: March 2016

With the globalization of the world economy, improved international capital mobility, and the popularity of fixed (pegged) exchange rates among small developing and transition economies, the Mundell-Fleming model has reasserted its importance as an analytical tool. This paper surveys the Mundell-Fleming model in major macroeconomics and international economics textbooks.

In the graphical presentations, all textbooks use the traditional IS-LM curves in the (y, i) plane except Mankiw who presents a model in the (y, e) plane with a unique addition of the effect of import restriction policies.

It is generally known that fiscal expansions will worsen the trade balance. A synthesized model is presented in which a necessary condition for such effect is derived.
Quality, Uncertainty and the Internet: The Market for Cyber Lemons
Authors: Huston John H. , Spencer Roger W.
Published: March 2016

The internet makes it easier for buyers to purchase goods from distant sellers. However, the inability of the buyer to examine the merchandise results in asymmetry of information. This paper develops a theoretical model to analyze the relationship between quality and price in a setting of asymmetrical information. In the spirit of Akerlof (1970), the model predicts that higher quality goods are less likely to be sold in the market. Since buyers have difficulty distinguishing quality, sellers would have to accept lower prices for their highest quality items. The model is tested using data from internet coin auctions. The results show that coins that are claimed to be of higher quality are less likely to sell and when they do sell do so at lower prices relative to their market value.
Who's Afraid of Their Economics Classes? Why are Students Apprehensive about Introductory Economics Courses? An Empirical Investigation
Authors: Benedict Mary Ellen , Hoag John
Published: March 2016

This paper investigates why students are apprehensive about their principles of economics classes. Using data collected on 399 students from a large, midwestem public university in the 1998 academic year, the authors examine whether there are demographic differences in levels of apprehension and what are the reported reasons for apprehension. The study includes a descriptive analysis and a probit analysis and concludes that: (1) course reputation is the main reason reported by students as the reason for being apprehensive; (2) females tend to be more apprehensive than males; and (3) increased math ability reduces apprehension levels for males and females. The authors suggest that preparatory sessions for those students weak in mathematics and alternative teaching methodologies may reduce the level of apprehension in the introductory courses.
The Policy Assignment Principle with Wage Indexation
Authors: Chang Wen-Ya , Lai Ching-Chong
Published: March 2016

This paper is the first attempt to examine the role of alternative wage indexation schemes in coordination between fiscal and exchange rate policies to achieve given desirable macroeconomic targets under fixed exchange rates with perfect capital mobility. By introducing an explicit specification of the supply side similar to Sachs (1980) and Pitchford (1990) into the Mundell (1963) framework, we show that the crucial factor determining whether the mixture of fiscal and exchange rate policies will successfully work to stabilize output and official foreign reserves is the degree of wage indexation. Furthermore, we also show that such a finding under fixed exchange rates is robust when the analysis shifts to the system of a managed floating regime.
Information and the Change in the Paradigm in Economics, Part 1
Authors: Stiglitz Joseph E.
Published: March 2016

The research for which George Akerlof, Mike Spence, and I are being recognized is part of a larger research program which, today, embraces hundred, perhaps thousands, of researchers around the world. In this lecture, I want to set the particular work which was sited within this broader agenda, and that agenda within the broader perspective of the history of economic thought. I hope to show that Information Economics represents a fundamental change in the prevailing paradigm within economics. Problems of information are central to understanding not only market economics but also political economy, and in the last section of this lecture, I explore some of the implications of information imperfections for political processes.
Entrepreneurial Activities in a Veblenian Type Transition Economy
Authors: Karayiannis Anastassios D. , Young Allan E.
Published: March 2016

In this paper we apply a Veblenian analysis to the development of specific entrepreneurial opportunities in the highly adverse world of present day transition economies. First, we utilize a Veblenian understanding of the nature of the institutional changes currently underway in these economies in order to see what light this can shed upon the transition process. We then seek to identify particular entrepreneurial opportunities in the production sector of transition economies that flow from the above Veblenian analysis. Additional entrepreneurial venture possibilities in the consumption and service sectors of transition economies that arise from a Veblenian perspective are then developed. Some cautionary public policy notes are also offered.
Which Students Benefit from Graphs in a Principles of Economics Class?
Authors: Hill Cynthia D. , Stegner Tesa
Published: March 2016

Graphical analysis is a key tool used by economics professors, yet some students may not be at a cognitive level to benefit from a lecture replete with graphs. This paper addresses this issue by examining whether students with similar backgrounds, goals and/or characteristics have difficulty using graphs. Using survey data of principles of economics students, this paper finds that student grade point average and preference toward math and logic puzzles have a positive and significant relationship with answering a graphical question correctly. There are two other findings of particular interest. Contrary to other studies regarding the success in an economics class, this study finds no gender differences across students. Additionally, this paper finds that a student with a mother who has obtained a bachelor degree is more likely to answer a graphical question correctly than a student whose mother has not earned a degree.
Labor Effects on the Unskilled Labor Market
Authors: Derrick Frederick W. , Scott Charles E. , Hutson Thomas
Published: March 2016

This paper provides the first analytical estimates of the impact of prison labor on the market for non-prison, unskilled labor. Estimates of the impact of prison labor on employment and wages of non-prison employees are derived using a supply and demand model similar to that used in the immigration literature, and generally accepted estimates of the aggregate demand and supply elasticities. Our results suggest minimal impact, given the current level of prison employment, and even with a significant expansion to twenty five percent of all prisoners.
Deriving the GLS Transformation Parameter in Elementary Panel Data Models
Authors: Jefferson Philip N.
Published: March 2016

The Generalized Least Squares (GLS) transformation that eliminates serial correlation in the error terms is central to a complete understanding of the relationship between the pooled OLS, random effects, and fixed effects estimators. A significant hurdle to attainment of that understanding is the calculation of the parameter that delivers the desired transformation. This paper derives this critical parameter in the benchmark case typically used to introduce these estimators using nothing more than elementary statistics (mean, variance, and covariance) and the quadratic formula.
Is the Dorfman-Steiner Rule Always Optimal?
Authors: Brook Stacey
Published: March 2016

Common economic wisdom states that the Dorfman-Steiner advertising rule must be met for profit maximization with respect to advertising effort, and either quantity or price. This is true given that the demand equation is not independent with respect to advertising and price or quantity (inverse demand equation). In other words, using an independent linear demand specification the Dorfman-Steiner rule is an identity and thus always holds even with output levels off the equilibrium path.
Do Gas Cost Incentive Mechanisms Work? A Nation-Wide Study
Authors: Hlasny Vladimir
Published: March 2016

This study evaluates the impact of Gas Cost Incentive Mechanisms on the consumer rates of natural gas throughout the Continental US. Panel data comes from a custom survey of state public service commissions and the annual survey EIA-176 by the US Department of Energy. After controlling for a group of incentive programs and other competition-enhancing efforts in the state and at the providers, the data shows no impact of the introduction of the Gas Cost Incentive Mechanisms on the level of consumer prices. This is consistent with the default hypothesis that all utilities minimize costs and that the limited sharing of earnings that the mechanisms offer does not induce further cost reductions. Interestingly, statewide consumer choice programs are found to lower prices significantly.
Are Daily Stock Price Indices in the Major European Equity Markets Cointegrated? Tests and Evidence
Authors: Kasibhatla Krishna M. , Stewart David , Sen Swapan , Malindretos John
Published: March 2016

This study investigates short-run and long-run linkages among major West European equity markets in London (FTSE100), Frankfurt (DAX30), and Paris (CAC40). Long-run market co-movements of the three price indices are detected employing cointegration and vector error correction methodology. Empirical results of this study support the presence of one cointegrating vector and two common trends. CAC index is found to be weakly exogenous. The short-run dynamics indicate short-run causal links running both ways between FTSE and DAX.
Quit Lying and Address the Controversies: There are No Dogmata, Laws, Rules or Standards in the Science of Economics
Authors: Becker William E.
Published: March 2016

As with other sciences, the author argues that there are no unquestionable ideas in economics, and attempts to impose “No Child Left Behind” K-12 type “technical standards” in universities will turn higher education in economics into remedial education. Students need to learn that the very nature of a science is to have unresolved topics and an on-going scrutiny of theories no matter how steeped they are in tradition. He provides examples to show how the dumbing down of economics to the dogmatic preaching of a few simple concepts, principles, and axioms of old misses the excitement of modem day economics and is a deceitful representation of the science of economics and a disservice to students seeking a higher education.
Human Capital and Economic Growth: Evidence from Developing Countries
Authors: Vinod Hrishikesh D. , Kaushik Surendra K.
Published: March 2016

Human capital in the form of education has been used to explain GDP growth in augmented Solow models. A statistically significant coefficient for human capital variable in these models was recently reported for OECD countries using recent data. We use time series and panel regressions for data on a group of eighteen large developing countries for the period 1982–2001. This study confirms and extends results by OECD and other similar studies. Since most of our models have a significant human capital regressor in such a study of developing countries, results in this paper are important for policy regarding expanded educational opportunities, increased emphasis, and focus on education and technology in developing countries.
The Hiring of an Economist: A Case Study
Authors: Holmes Jessica , Colander David
Published: March 2016

This paper provides information about the economics PhD job market by providing a case study of one particular buyer in the 2005 job market for economists. Specifically, it provides information on the nuances of the market such as what is going on in buyers' minds when they select who to interview, and when they ask interview questions. It also distills some advice to job seekers from that case study.
International Comparison of Economic Performance Index: The Case of the USA, Japan and Korea
Authors: Lee Sanghack , Cheong Kiwoong , Sub Seoung Hwan
Published: March 2016

With explicit consideration of structural changes, this paper constructs the Economic Performance Index (EPI) by integrating economic growth rate, inflation rate, unemployment rate and the ratio of current account relative to Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Intranational analyses and international comparisons of EPIs of the USA, Japan and Korea have been performed. The intranational analyses indicate that the EPI of each country properly reflects economic situation and performance, respectively. Especially in case of Korea, the EPI dropped substantially at the end of each political regime due to political instability. Findings from international comparisons are as follows. Firstly, the EPI of Korea is more affected by other countries than those of the USA and Japan. Specifically, Korean economic growth and the balance of payments are largely affected by Japan while the inflation rate is largely affected by the USA. Secondly, while the EPI of the USA is virtually not affected by Japan or Korea, the inflation rate and balance of payments of the USA are slightly affected by Japan. Lastly, even though the EPI of Japan is mostly affected by the USA, Korea and the USA have almost the same effect on the balance of payments of Japan.
High-Tech Outsourcing: A Benefit-Cost Framework
Authors: Gordon Cameron , Zimmerman Alan
Published: March 2016

Is international outsourcing “efficient” or merely a redistribution of resources from one economic sector to another? This paper looks at this question from the perspectives of: (1) economic theory, which abstracts away from institutions and towards generalized incentives; (2) management theory, which focuses more on institutional issues that economic theory tends to ignore; and (3) a combined perspective within a benefit-cost analysis framework. The paper argues that an evaluation of outsourcing's impacts requires determining how the practice affects overall size of economic output and equity across sectors and countries. A benefit-cost template is developed for considering these questions more systematically.
The Rate of Time Preference in the United States Government
Authors: Temin Peter
Published: March 2016

I use Samuelson's Nonsubstitution Theorem (1961) to argue that government policies in the United States traditionally reflected a low discount rate. The government's discount rate appears to have risen sharply in the last generation, showing the usefulness of Samuelson's theorem and the difficulties facing the United States in the future.
Explorations in the Economics of Intertemporal Asset Transfer in Roman Palestine
Authors: Viswanath P.V.
Published: March 2016

Following the Jewish Revolt and the destruction of the Jewish Temple in 70 CE, there were large-scale destabilizations of the Jewish population in Palestine. Information regarding economic decisions has always been available indirectly from Jewish and Roman legalistic material, but it has been insufficiently mined for economic insights. Furthermore, over the last forty years, new documentary material has become available from the second century. This note discusses some interesting aspects of how people managed to transfer resources over time in those turbulent times. Specifically, I look at two cases of asset transfer where the primary purpose was to transfer wealth over time. I explore the role of market frictions in both cases and make comparisons to present-day circumstances.
Foreign Direct Investment Inward and Outward; Evidence from Panel Data, Developed and Developing Economies, and Open and Closed Economies
Authors: Apergis Nicholas
Published: March 2016

This paper examines empirically the association between Foreign Direct Investment inward and Foreign Direct Investment outward. Using a panel data set for 35 economies over the period 1981–2004 as well as the methodology of panel cointegration and panel causality tests, the empirical findings show that FDI inward does exhibit a significant relationship with FDI outward. Moreover, bi-directional panel causality is present when the sample is split into developed and developing economies. When the sample is split between open and closed economies the causality remains only for the open economies.
Financial Sector Development, Institutional Development and Benefits for the Poor
Authors: Levine Jonathan
Published: March 2016

Thorsten Beck, Asli Demirguc-Kunt & Ross Levine (2004) argue that financial sector development in a country disproportionately benefits its poor. When controls for improvement in the security of property rights and the fairness of the legal system, freedom to trade internationally and levels of trust are added to their research, the benefits from financial sector development disappear. Financial sector development seems to proxy for these institutions or be a mechanism through which they work.
Economics, Ethics and the Dilemma in the Prisoner's Dilemmas
Authors: Arce Daniel G.
Published: March 2016

This paper contrasts four distinct versions of the Prisoner's Dilemma (the commons, public goods, biological altruism, and biological selfishness) in terms of their ethical content for economic decision making. An argument is made for the restoration of Tucker's third player — as given in the original specification of the game — in order to judge whether a resolution is desirable in economic and business situations that reduce to the Prisoner's Dilemma. Finally, the use of tit-for-tat as a 'solution' to the Prisoner's Dilemma is compared with the practice of business ethics.
The Effect of Competition on the Evaluation of Lotteries
Authors: Shavit Tal , Shahrabani Shosh , Benzion Uri
Published: March 2016

Many studies have examined the bid price (Willingness to Pay or WTP) and the Ask price (Willingness to Accept or WTA) for ordinary real products, such as coffee mugs, candy bars, and pens, or for lotteries. This study analyzes the determinants of bid-and-ask prices in lotteries. Using a second-price auction, we elicit participants' WTP and WTA for lotteries. Participants are divided into groups according to their risk attitude and win-loving behavior. Our results indicate that greater risk-seeking and higher win-loving increase the WTP, while higher risk-seeking and lower win-loving increase the WTA. Therefore, experimental studies should separate participants into different risk-seeking and win-loving groups to explain WTP and WTA disparities for risky assets. Moreover win-loving behavior should be taken into consideration in the decision-making process with respect to asset pricing.
The Impact of Remittances on Economic Growth and Development in Africa
Authors: Fayissa Bichaka , Nsiah Christian
Published: March 2016

The perceived factors of economic growth in developing economies have ranged from surplus labor to capital investment and technological change, trade, foreign aid, foreign direct investment, investment in human capital, increasing returns from investment in new ideas, and research and development. Other researchers have also considered the importance of institutional factors such as the role of political freedom, political instability, and voice and accountability on economic growth and development. Despite the increasing importance of remittances in total international capital flows, however, the relationship between remittances and economic growth has not been adequately studied. This study explores the aggregate impact of remittances on economic growth within the conventional neoclassical growth framework using panel data spanning from 1980 to 2004 for 36 African countries. We find that remittances positively impact economic growth by providing an alternative way to finance investment and helping to overcome liquidity constraints.
Teaching the Art of Economic Research in a Senior Seminar
Authors: Reyes Jessica Wolpaw
Published: March 2016

In many academic settings, undergraduate economics majors are asked to do an independent project or thesis in their final year. Because doing research is very different from learning economics in a classroom, students are frequently unprepared for this endeavor. This article describes a seminar course intended to ease this transition by preparing students to embark on such a project. The first goal of the course is to assist students in developing a sound economic research project. The second goal is to help them develop the research skills to execute their project. In essence, the course is an abbreviated and accelerated version of some of the learning that takes place alongside the standard curriculum in graduate school. The article describes a course that has been designed for a liberal arts setting, and also discusses other possible variations.