Strategy and Coherence of a Program of Regional Development: A Methodology for synergy evaluation

The main purpose of this paper is to present a methodological proposal to value the synergy in programmes of regional development, regarding either their objectives or their performances. First, the main aspects of the methodology used to evaluate individually the synergy of the objectives (performances) are set out by using a Delphi technique. This technique allows to build a matrix of weights, according to the degree of synergy for every objective (performance). Then, hierarchical clusters are applied in the data processing. This technique leads to a ranking of objectives which shows the strategic value of the programme subject to evaluation. The methodological analysis shows also an application of the Community Support Framework ( 1994-1999) for the Spanish Objective 1 regions.

European integration and regional business cycles - a test for the Spanish case

It is a well-known fact that economic integration processes tend to link business cycles among participating economies. Strengthening of commercial relationship, changes in direct investment patterns, capital flows, etc. contribute to explain this progressive coincidence of economic fluctuations. The aim of this contribution is to show empirical evidence of this cyclical pattern at regional level. Nevertheless, what could be true at national level may differ when considering regions: regional business cycles can show convergence or divergence patterns simultaneously. Using Regio date base and National Accounts figures referred to a group of EU regions, the paper will be focused to analyse if the European integration process have led to more regular (synchronised) business cycles. Some explanatory variables of these results will be tested and some policy recommendations could be derived from the findings.

Strategy and Coherence of a Program of Regional Development: A Methodology for synergy evaluation

The main purpose of this paper is to present a methodological proposal to value the synergy in programmes of regional development, regarding either their objectives or their performances. First, the main aspects of the methodology used to evaluate individually the synergy of the objectives (performances) are set out by using a Delphi technique. This technique allows to build a matrix of weights, according to the degree of synergy for every objective (performance). Then, hierarchical clusters are applied in the data processing. This technique leads to a ranking of objectives which shows the strategic value of the programme subject to evaluation. The methodological analysis shows also an application of the Community Support Framework ( 1994-1999) for the Spanish Objective 1 regions

European integration and regional business cycles - a test for the Spanish case

It is a well-known fact that economic integration processes tend to link business cycles among participating economies. Strengthening of commercial relationship, changes in direct investment patterns, capital flows, etc. contribute to explain this progressive coincidence of economic fluctuations. The aim of this contribution is to show empirical evidence of this cyclical pattern at regional level. Nevertheless, what could be true at national level may differ when considering regions: regional business cycles can show convergence or divergence patterns simultaneously. Using Regio date base and National Accounts figures referred to a group of EU regions, the paper will be focused to analyse if the European integration process have led to more regular (synchronised) business cycles. Some explanatory variables of these results will be tested and some policy recommendations could be derived from the findings

Sinus elevation by in situ utilization of bone scrapers : technique and results

Objectives: The objective was to present a novel technique for antrostomy performed before sinus elevation in atrophic maxilla for subsequent implant placement. Material and methods: The study included 10 sinus elevations performed by the proposed technique in nine consecutive patients presenting with inadequate posterior maxillary height. The technique is described, calculating the antrostomy surface area, volume of bone tissue obtained and final height attained in each case. A total of 16 implants were placed. Results: All ten elevations were accomplished. Mean antrostomy surface area was 0.55 mm2 , mean bone volume obtained was 0.56 cm3 and mean height attained was 11.7 mm from a baseline mean height of 5.6 mm. Out of the 16 implants, 14 were inserted immediately after the elevation and 2 were inserted in a second step, after ossification; 93.7% of the implants were osseointegrated at 6 months after prosthesis placement. Conclusion: The use of bone scrapers to create antrostomy for sinus elevation is a simple and very safe procedure. It provides a variable amount of particulate bone graft that is easily handled and highly useful for packing the cavity that will elevate the sinus membrane