Eight of the ten dearest cities are in Europe, partly reflecting the strength of European currencies.

ECONOMIST: Oslo remains the world's most expensive city

Growth in such spending from government-funded entities also slipped to 4%, partly reflecting lower growth in U.S. government contributions.

WSJ: Gates Urges Support for Global Health Programs

"Economic growth is moderating from its quite-strong pace earlier this year, partly reflecting a gradual cooling of the housing market, " the Fed said.

FORBES: Fed Hikes Rates, Sounds Less Hawkish On Inflation

The penalty count was 17-8 in Wales' favour, partly from the scrum but also reflecting the work being done on the floor.

BBC: Winless Wales still pack punch

The rise is partly explained by a jump in the number of people needing non-emergency treatments as well as reflecting a shift towards more people choosing to use private providers - something they are entitled to do under patient choice.

BBC: NHS use of private sector rising