Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Panel Stationarity Tests for Purchasing Power Parity With Cross-Sectional Dependence

We investigate the purchasing power parity (PPP) hypothesis for a group of 17 countries using a new panel-based test of stationarity that allows for arbitrary cross-sectional dependence. We treat the short-run time series dynamics nonparametrically and thus avoid the need to fit separate, and potentially misspecified, models for the individual series. The statistic is simple to compute and uses standard normal critical values, even in the presence of a wide range of different deterministic components. We also evaluate the behavior of the test using a factor model to approximate cross-sectional dependence and find that it generally improves finite-sample performance. Taken together, these features provide a widely applicable solution to the problem of testing for stationarity versus unit roots in macro-panel data. The test finds significant evidence against the PPP null hypothesis being true, even when allowance is made for structural breaks.
Different adaptations of alpha‐actinin isoforms to exercise training in rat skeletal muscles

Aim: Alpha (α)‐actinins are located in the skeletal muscle Z‐line and form actin–actin cross‐links. Mammalian skeletal muscle has two isoforms: α‐actinin‐2 and α‐actinin‐3. However, the response of α‐actinin to exercise training is little understood. Therefore, the current study examined the effects of exercise training on the expression level of two α‐actinin isoforms in skeletal muscles.
Can Targeted Food Programs Improve Nutrition? An Empirical Analysis of India’s Public Distribution System

Despite the widespread belief that a substantial assault on poverty requires targeting scarce resources toward the poor, practitioners frequently claim that targeted programs deliver fewer benefits to poor households than do universal programs. This article evaluates this concern through an analysis of India’s targeted food distribution program, the Public Distribution System. It first examines the case for targeting by assessing the responsiveness of caloric intake to the amount of the food grain subsidy; a low elasticity suggests that improvements in nutrition may require large subsidies and, hence, a targeted program. It then examines whether targeting adversely affects the probability of poor households participating in the program. The empirical analysis identifies the effect of the program by combining time‐varying policy changes in the value of the program with cross‐sectional variation in program benefits generated by variation in market prices. The results confirm the low responsiveness of caloric intake to food grain subsidies and hence suggest the need for a relatively generous program. However, I also find that, under the current design of the program, targeting reduces the probability of participation by poor households, relative to a universal program.
To adjust or not to adjust for baseline when analyzing repeated binary responses? The case of complete data when treatment comparison at study end is of interest

The benefits of adjusting for baseline covariates are not as straightforward with repeated binary responses as with continuous response variables. Therefore, in this study, we compared different methods for analyzing repeated binary data through simulations when the outcome at the study endpoint is of interest. Methods compared included chi‐square, Fisher's exact test, covariate adjusted/unadjusted logistic regression (Adj.logit/Unadj.logit), covariate adjusted/unadjusted generalized estimating equations (Adj.GEE/Unadj.GEE), covariate adjusted/unadjusted generalized linear mixed model (Adj.GLMM/Unadj.GLMM). All these methods preserved the type I error close to the nominal level. Covariate adjusted methods improved power compared with the unadjusted methods because of the increased treatment effect estimates, especially when the correlation between the baseline and outcome was strong, even though there was an apparent increase in standard errors. Results of the Chi‐squared test were identical to those for the unadjusted logistic regression. Fisher's exact test was the most conservative test regarding the type I error rate and also with the lowest power. Without missing data, there was no gain in using a repeated measures approach over a simple logistic regression at the final time point. Analysis of results from five phase III diabetes trials of the same compound was consistent with the simulation findings. Therefore, covariate adjusted analysis is recommended for repeated binary data when the study endpoint is of interest. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantitative easing: a sceptical survey

Evaluation of quantitative easing (QE) is difficult as it is only used in response to severe and unusual economic difficulties. Despite this, we argue that two main conclusions can be drawn from a sceptical reading of the evidence. First, large-scale asset purchases reduce government bond rates, especially at the longer end of the yield curve. However, this effect may be temporary and is small if bond rates are already low, while initial waves of QE are more effective than subsequent programmes. Second, QE appears to have been effective in late 2008 and 2009, preventing even larger declines in output and inflation than were experienced. We argue that the literature is limited, relying on similar methodologies and largely originating in central banks. Exploration of alternative approaches to QE would be useful in widening an evidence base that is currently too narrow.
Atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia: a review.

BACKGROUND Atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT) is the most common form of regular narrow complex tachycardia. It is due to dual atrioventricular nodal conduction over two pathways with different electrophysiological properties. The first pathway ('fast' pathway) conducts faster but has longer refractory period than the second pathway ('slow' pathway). OBJECTIVES To review AVNRT. Clinically, AVNRT patients usually have palpitations in their neck during attacks. On the surface electrocardiogram, the diagnosis is suggested by the absence of P waves during tachycardia or very discrete P waves immediately after the QRS or an rSr' pattern in lead VI. Electrophysiologically, it can be reproducibly initiated or terminated by cardiac pacing. The reentrant circuit is limited to the atrioventricular node and a small amount of perinodal atrial tissue. Acute termination of tachycardia can be achieved by vagal manoeuvres or drugs. Adenosine compounds are excellent drugs, as are calcium channel blockers, for acute termination of the arrhythmia. If chronic therapy is indicated, digitalis, calcium blockers and beta-blockers are effective and simple initial options. Catheter ablation, especially using radiofrequency energy, antitachycardia pacing and surgery are therapeutic alternatives for the resistant patient. CONCLUSION Because of its high success rate and low incidence of complications, radiofrequency ablation is becoming the therapy of first choice for the treatment of AVNRT.
Fractures in Children With Cerebral Palsy

Introduction: We studied the fracture history in a large population of patients with cerebral palsy to determine which children were at the highest risk for fracture. Methods: The International Classification of Diseases (Ninth Revision) coding identified 763 children with cerebral palsy. Patients and caregivers were contacted for information about fracture history and risk factors for low bone density. Of the 763 children identified, 418 children (54.8%) were available for this study; 243 (58%) had quadriplegia, 120 (29%) diplegia, and 55 (13%) hemiplegia. Three hundred sixty-six children were spastic, 23 mixed tone, 13 athetoid, and 16 classified as others. We identified 50 children (12%) who fractured; 15 of these same children had, over time, multiple fractures. Results: The number of fractures showed a normal distribution by age, with a mean of 8.6 (SD, 4.0). Children with cerebral palsy with mixed tone had a higher rate of fracture (&khgr;2 = 14.7, P < 0.01); &khgr;2 analysis indicated that the children who fractured were, as a group, more likely to use a feeding tube, have a seizure disorder, take valproic acid (VPA), and use standing equipment in therapy. Multiple regression analysis demonstrated older age and VPA use as predictive of fracture and gave the following equation: fracture = −0.01 + (VPA × 0.17) + (age × 0.15). The subgroup that sustained multiple fractures were older at the time of first fracture than the children who had only one reported fracture (t = −2.3, P < 0.05). Conclusions: The main finding of our article is that older age at first fracture and use of VPA are predictive of fractures and define a group of children with cerebral palsy who may benefit from treatment interventions to increase bone density.
The Nature of Independent Travel

Independent travel is an important and growing sector of worldwide tourism. This study examines the extent of travel planning by independent travelers, the extent to which travel plans are actioned, and the temporal sequence in which vacation elements are chosen. In-depth case studies were completed on 20 international travel parties who were first-time visitors to New Zealand. Travel parties were interviewed at both the beginning and the end of their vacations. Using an inductive-deductive process of research, a series of propositions was developed and tested using pattern-matching procedures. The study demonstrates that the motivations for independent travel are reflected in the decision processes adopted by independent travelers. Three characteristics are identified that distinguish the nature of independent travel: the traveler experiences an evolving itinerary, the traveler is willing to take risks in selecting vacation elements, and the traveler possesses a desire to experience the unplanned.
Development of Web-based intervention system for periodontal health: a pilot study in the workplace

Background: It has recently been accepted that periodontal disease is a risk factor for not only tooth loss but also systemic diseases. An effective system of public intervention for periodontal health to enable continuous intervention of dental professionals has been sought. We developed a Web-based intervention system regarding periodontal health and evaluated the effects of the system in the workplace. Methods: The system was capable of storage and display of personalized oral health records including video images pertaining to toothbrush manipulation within their own oral cavities based on instructions by dental professionals. The system enabled clients to view movement of their own skill, and repeatedly. Thirteen workers of a company were randomized to either an experimental or control group. The control group received face-to-face toothbrushing instruction at the company and follow-up via telephone. The experimental group received follow-up through our system in addition to those components employed in the control group. Main results: The workers in the experimental group benefited in terms of improvements of not only plaque removal but also periodontal health over 3 months. Conclusions: These results indicate that implementation of an Web-based approach for periodontal health affords the possibility of remote instruction and produces additional public benefit.
The return to Australian fine wine

This paper uses auction data and the adjacent period hedonic price regression approach to estimate the return to storing premium Australian wine during the period 1989Q4 to 2000Q4. The results indicate that the return to storing premium Australian wine is probably superior to the return to Bordeaux wine. The risk-return profile of premium Australian wine is shown to be broadly comparable to that of Australian equities. Copyright 2006, Oxford University Press.
Shared or separate? Money management and changing norms of gender equality among Norwegian couples

Over the last generation the male breadwinner/housewife family has gradually become outdated as the dominant normative model for family households. The new ideal has become the adult worker family model, where gender equality defined as economic independence and sharing of household work and childcare between spouses/partners is the norm. The Nordic countries are the frontrunners of this development, and the Nordic welfare model is assumed to be well adapted to this new ideal. However, this ideal does not hold clear norms of how money should be managed and shared in family households, and Nordic families have to establish their own systems. Norwegian survey data from the International Social Survey Programme (ISSP) in 1994 and 2002 are used to analyse patterns of money management in family households. Our study indicates that, even if sharing of economic resources and responsibility remains the most common pattern, a greater number of families are choosing separate and independent systems of financial allocation. This increase in divided systems of money management may lead to new gender inequalities because of the lack of recognition of the value of domestic labour and family care as part of the common provision.
Rationally Inattentive Seller: Sales and Discrete Pricing

This paper presents a model of a rationally inattentive seller responding to shocks to unit input cost. The model generates price series simultaneously exhibiting all three of the following features that can be found in data. 1) Prices change frequently. 2)Responses of prices to aggregate variables are delayed. 3)Prices move back and forth between a few rigid values. Discrete pricing arises even if the unit input cost varies in a continuous range. Results of the model also agree with the evidence that reductions in price, e.g. sales, are usually short-lasting and that the highest price in a sample tends to be the most quoted price. Discrete and asymmetric pricing is a seller’s optimal response to his limited information capacity Moreover, the model provides rationale for faster responses to aggregate shocks in industries with more 1 I am especially grateful to Per Krusell and Chris Sims for invaluable insights and
Investors’ Exposure Rating and Stock Returns

This study examines whether investments based on herd behavior can outperform the market. It utilizes an investment exposure rating system calculated as the percentage of “clicks” on a specific stock banner on a popular business portal. Comparing the returns of a portfolio that consisted of the ten most “clicked” stocks to the returns of the stocks on the Tel Aviv 100 index (TA100) showed that the clicked portfolio did not outperform the index during the examined period. Moreover, a high exposure rating was negatively correlated with returns and positively correlated with higher risk. These results strengthen the hypothesis that investment based on herd behavior is not a winning strategy.
The European Sectoral Social Dialogue: Questions of Representation and Membership

In the debates on the European social dialogue as a potential level of supranational industrial relations, the key questions of representations and mandates are often neglected. To what extent can the European sectoral social dialogue act for national constituencies across 27 Member States in the perspective of collective action by European associations? This article addresses this question by the means of three dimensions: the representation of heterogeneous members, the various degrees of national players' commitment in the European committees and finally, the definition of a common agenda among members.
Veblen’s Theory of Business Enterprise and Keynes’s Monetary Theory of Production

It has long been recognized that Thorstein Veblen and John Maynard Keynes share a common approach to the nature of “business enterprise” or “monetary production” in the modern capitalist economy (Dillard 1948; Dowd 1964). Keynes’s most explicit treatment was in the early drafts of the General Theory, unfortunately the final version dropped some of the clearest statements. Veblen’s best known exposition was in the Theory of Business Enterprise. This paper will provide a concise summary of Veblen’s views on the “credit economy,” comparing that with Keynes’s “monetary economy. ” While there are many similarities, Veblen’s version is in some important respects more complete, and still relevant for developing an understanding of modern business practice. On one hand, this is not surprising as Keynes had let many of the monetary details “fall into the background. ” However, as Matthew Wilson (2006) argues, it is surprising that most followers of Keynes have not mined the Theory of Business Enterprise for arguments that nicely complement and extend Keynes’s better known approach. Veblen and the Distinction between the Money Economy and the Credit Economy
Antisocial behavioral syndromes and past-year physical health among adults in the United States: results from the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions.

OBJECTIVE To describe associations of DSM-IV antisocial personality disorder (ASPD), DSM-IV conduct disorder without progression to ASPD (CD-only), and syndromal antisocial behavior in adulthood without conduct disorder before age 15 years (AABS, not a DSM-IV diagnosis) with past-year physical health status and hospital care utilization in the general U.S. adult population. METHOD This report is based on the 2001-2002 National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (N = 43,093, response rate = 81%). Respondents were classified according to whether they met criteria for ASPD, AABS, CD-only, or no antisocial syndrome. Associations of antisocial syndromes with physical health status and care utilization were examined using normal theory and logistic regression. RESULTS ASPD and AABS were significantly but modestly associated with total past-year medical conditions, coronary heart and gastrointestinal diseases, and numbers of inpatient hospitalizations, inpatient days, emergency department visits, and clinically significant injuries (all p < .05). ASPD was also associated with liver disease, arthritis, and lower scores on the Medical Outcomes Study 12-Item Short-Form Health Survey, version 2 (SF-12v2) physical component summary, role physical, and bodily pain scales (all p < .05). AABS was associated with noncoronary heart disease, lower scores on the SF-12v2 general health and vitality scales, and, among men, arthritis (all p < .05). CD-only was associated with single but not multiple inpatient hospitalizations, emergency department visits, and clinically significant injuries (all p < .05). CONCLUSIONS Estimates of burden related to antisocial behavioral syndromes need to consider associated physical health problems. Prevention and treatment guidelines for injuries and common chronic diseases may need to address comorbid antisociality, and interventions targeting antisociality may need to consider general health status, including prevention and management of injuries and chronic diseases.
Postoperative levonorgestrel‐releasing intrauterine system versus oral contraceptives after gonadotropin‐releasing hormone agonist treatment for preventing endometrioma recurrence

Although the levonorgestrel‐releasing intrauterine system (LNG‐IUS) is effective in reducing the recurrence of endometriosis‐associated pain, its efficacy in preventing endometrioma recurrence is questionable. We compared the efficacy of postoperative use of LNG‐IUS with oral contraceptives (OC) for preventing endometrioma recurrence.
Medical appointment no-shows associated with poor glycaemic control among Taiwanese aborigines.

OBJECTIVE To determine whether diabetes control is less optimal in Taiwanese aborigines and identify the risk factors associated with poor glycaemic control. DESIGN Cross-sectional analysis of data from Taiwan Diabetes Shared Care Program SETTING A rural hospital in central Taiwan. METHODS Patients enrolled in Diabetes Shared Care Program in 2010 were surveyed. The average HbA1c in 2010 was compared between the aboriginal and non-aboriginal groups. Age, gender, body mass index and disease duration were selected to represent biological factors. Combined with the existence of geographic barrier to medical service and rate of medical appointment no-shows, multivariate linear regression model was applied to determine the predictive power of each factor to glycaemic status. RESULTS Only 26% of patients achieved average HbA1c of less than 7%. The average HbA1c of the aboriginal group is significantly higher than that of the non-aboriginal group (8.73% versus 7.93%, P < 0.001). However, in multivariate linear regression model, racial background was no longer a risk factor for poor glycaemic control. Medical appointment no-shows was found as the most significant risk factor for poor glycaemic control (b = 1.48, P < 0.001). CONCLUSION Taiwanese aboriginal diabetes patients as a group have poorer glycaemic control than the non-aboriginal group. Medical appointment no-shows may significantly contribute to the development of hyperglycaemia among Taiwanese aborigines.
Is the human sex ratio at birth a sentinel health indicator that is associated with HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis prevalences in the 21st century?

Background A reduction in sex ratio at live birth has been proposed as a sentinel health indicator that can be used to monitor the health of populations. Objective To test the hypothesis that a lower sex ratio is associated with adverse national population health using the prevalences of HIV and tuberculosis as measures of societal well-being. Methods An ecological study design using routinely collected data and adjusting for potential confounding factors. Results The mean global sex ratio was 1.05. There was marked heterogeneity in the sex ratio between different global regions (p<0.0001). Those regions with the highest prevalences of HIV infection had lower sex ratios, with the value for the highest quartile being 0.022 (95% CIs CI 0.013 to 0.031) lower than the lowest quartile. Similarly, those areas with the highest quartile of tuberculosis infection had a sex ratio of 0.016 (95% CI 0.004 to 0.028) lower than those in the lowest quartile. Similar results were observed in a subgroup analysis limited to countries from the African continent. Conclusions The data are consistent with the hypothesis that a reduced sex ratio at live birth is a potential sentinel health indicator of lower population health. However, these data do not demonstrate either a casual relationship or reveal any biological mechanisms that may account for these observations.
Economic Voting in Times of Economic Crisis

The economic crisis hit Germany hard before the 2009 Bundestag election. Against this background the extent of economic voting in this particular election is analysed. As economic perceptions are often believed to be important determinants of voting behaviour the following questions are addressed in this article. Are perceptions of the voters' personal and the general economic situation influenced by the economic crisis and thus worse than in previous election years? How do these perceptions impact on the decision to vote in 2009? What effect do attributions of the government's responsibility for the economic situation have on economic voting models and how do they interact with other predictors? Finally, did economic evaluations affect the decision to vote in favour of the parties of the old government (CDU/CSU and SPD) or the new government (CDU/CSU and FDP), respectively? Answers to these questions are provided by an analysis of the data of the 2009 German Longitudinal Election Study (GLES).