bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
What determines the gold inflation relation in the long-run?
Authors: Kumar Satish 
Published: August 2017

PurposeThe author aims to examine the long-run dynamic relation between gold price and inflation in the Indian context from 1982 to 2015. The author measures inflation using consumer price index and wholesale price index (WPI). However, this study focuses on the long-run dynamic relation between gold price–WPI inflation.Design/methodology/approachThe author uses Johansen’s cointegration technique (Johansen, 1991); single equation error correction model based on Pesaran et al. (2001) and Kanioura and Turner (2005); and the Saikkonen and Lütkepohl (2000) approach. The author also uses a time-varying regression framework in level form based on Kalman filter to examine the dynamic nature of gold–WPI relation.FindingsThe author finds no evidence of cointegration between gold and WPI. However, The author reports a significant dynamic relation between gold and inflation using a Kalman filter framework, and the comovement between these variables has in fact increased in the past decade. The results further indicate that variation in gold’s sensitivity to inflation can be explained by real effective exchange rate which supports the notion of using gold as an alternative to paper currency. Moreover, the WPI beta of gold is found to be predicted by both short- and long-term interest rate changes highlighting the monetary value of gold as a valuable asset.Practical implicationsFrom an emerging economy point of view, the results have implications for policy makers, particularly the central banks. The results of this paper caution the Reserve Bank of India against increasing its gold holdings as a reserve asset presuming that gold would preserve its purchasing power parity, at the same time providing a hedge against inflation.Originality/valueTo the best of the author’s knowledge, this is the first study to examine the gold price–inflation relation in the Indian market for such a long period of time. More importantly, the study shows that the changes in gold’s long-term sensitivity to WPI can be forecast using fundamental variables like interest rates.
Do Portuguese mutual funds display forecasting skills?
Authors: Neto Nuno Manuel Veloso , Lobão Júlio Fernando Seara Sequeira da Mota , Vieira Elisabete Simões 
Published: August 2017

Purpose
This study aims to evaluate the performance of the Portuguese fund managers by examining the selectivity and market timing skills of 51 Portuguese mutual funds from June 2002 to March 2012.

Design/methodology/approach
The authors assess empirically the performance of a sample of funds by applying the unconditional and conditional models of Treynor and Mazuy (1966) and Henriksson and Merton (1981).

Findings
The results suggest that, overall, the Portuguese mutual funds do not possess selectivity or timing skills. However, regardless of the model used, the domestic equity funds exhibit a statistically significant market timing ability. Furthermore, the domestic and North American equity funds display positive selectivity during bull markets and timing skills during bear markets. Additionally, there is some evidence that older funds are better stock pickers than younger funds.

Research limitations/implications
To address some of the limitations of this study, the authors suggest for further research correcting the Treynor and Mazuy (1966) model for the convexity cost of replicating Merton’s (1981) option approach. Additionally, for further research, we suggest using a bigger sample, higher frequency data, as such data may lead to higher frequency of timing ability as proposed by Bollen and Busse (2001). To overcome some of the limitations of traditional models, future research may consider using Jiang’s (2003) nonparametric test, as it is not affected by manager’s risk aversion, or Ferson and Khang (2002) conditional performance evaluation using portfolios holdings.

Originality/value
The authors contribute to the current literature by extending the period of study to 10 years in comparison to previous studies; extending the sample of funds to 51; addressing, for the first time in this context, the importance of public information on funds’ performance, through the comparison of unconditional and conditional models of Treynor and Mazuy’s (1966) and Henriksson and Merton’s (1981); and, for the first time in the Portuguese context, analysing the relationship between funds’ size, age and market cycles and selectivity and market timing skills.
Shoot growth of woody trees and shrubs is predicted by maximum plant height and associated traits
Authors: Gleason Sean M. , Stephens Andrea E. A. , Tozer Wade C. , Blackman Chris J. , Butler Don W. , Chang Yvonne , Cook Alicia M. , Cooke Julia , Laws Claire A. , Rosell Julieta A. , Stuart Stephanie A. , Westoby Mark 
Published: August 2017

Abstract

The rate of elongation and thickening of individual branches (shoots) varies across plant species. This variation is important for the outcome of competition and other plant–plant interactions. Here, we compared rates of shoot growth across 44 species from tropical, warm temperate and cool temperate forests of eastern Australia.

Shoot growth rate was found to correlate with a suite of traits including the potential height of the species, xylem‐specific conductivity, leaf size, leaf area per xylem cross‐section (LA/XA), twig diameter (at 40 cm length), wood density and modulus of elasticity.

Within this suite of traits, maximum plant height was the clearest correlate of growth rates, explaining 50%–67% of the variation in growth overall (p < .0001), and 23%–32% of the variation (p < .05) in growth when holding the influence of the other traits constant. Structural equation models suggest that traits associated with “hydraulics,” “biomechanics” and the “leaf economics spectrum” represent three clearly separated axes of variation, with the hydraulic axis exhibiting the strongest alignment with height and largest independent contribution to growth (in the case of branch thickening). However, most of the capacity of these axes to predict growth was also associated with maximum height, presumably reflecting coordinated selection on multiple traits that together influence life histories.

Growth rates were not strongly correlated with leaf nitrogen or leaf mass per unit leaf area.

Correlations between growth and maximum height arose both across latitude (47%, p < .0001) and from within‐site differences between species (30%, p < .0001). Covariation between growth and maximum height was driven in part by variation in irradiance across sites as well as among canopy positions within sites (23%, p < .0001). A significant fraction of this shared variation was independent of irradiance (45%, p < .0001), reflecting intrinsic differences across species and sites.

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Biological Flora of the British Isles:Sorbus torminalis
Authors: Thomas Peter A. 
Published: August 2017

SummaryThis account presents information on all aspects of the biology ofSorbus torminalis(L.) Crantz (Wild Service‐tree) that are relevant to understanding its ecological characteristics and behaviour. The main topics are presented within the standard framework of theBiological Flora of the British Isles: distribution, habitat, communities, responses to biotic factors, responses to environment, structure and physiology, phenology, floral and seed characters, herbivores and disease, history and conservation.Sorbus torminalisis an uncommon, mostly small tree (but can reach 33 m) native to lowland England and Wales, and temperate and Mediterranean regions of mainland Europe. It is the most shade‐tolerant member of the genus in the British Isles, and as a result, it is more closely associated with woodland than any other British species. Like other BritishSorbusspecies, however, it grows best where competition for space and sunlight is limited. Seedlings are shade tolerant but adults are only moderately so. This, combined with its low competitive ability, restricts the best growth to open areas. In shade, saplings and young adults form a sapling bank, showing reproduction and extensive growth only when released.Sorbus torminalistolerates a wide range of soil reaction (pH3·5–8·0) but grows best on calcareous clays and thin soils over limestone.Sorbus torminalisis a sexual, diploid, non‐apomictic species that has hybridised with a number of otherSorbusspecies to form microspecies. The hermaphrodite flowers are primarily insect pollinated. Seed production is reliable only in warm years, especially at the edge of its range, although even then seed viability is low. The fruits are primarily dispersed by carnivorous mammals. Seeds display embryo dormancy but most will germinate the first spring after falling.This tree is very tolerant of short droughts but only moderately tolerant of frost, hence its southerly and lowland distribution. It faces no particular individual threats although the small size of most populations makes it susceptible to habitat loss and fragmentation, particularly through the loss of open coppiced areas. As a consequence, it appears to be declining throughout Britain and Europe despite its wide range of historical uses and the high value of its timber. The extent to which these losses will be offset by increases due to climate change is unknown.
Beyond Gentrification: Hegemonic Redevelopment in Hong Kong
Authors: Tang Wing‐Shing 
Published: August 2017

AbstractLike other concepts, gentrification must be situated in the socio‐historical context in which it was produced. Since its coinage the concept has travelled widely, yet it has been applied unevenly, and in some cases uncritically, in various locations now including Asian cities. This essay challenges the application of the concept of gentrification to Hong Kong, as attempted by an article previously published in this journal. It responds through two main lines of inquiry. First, it demonstrates how the absence of historical, geographical and socio‐political context weakens the basis for a critical urban geography. Second, in constructing a historical baseline, this essay proposes to conceive urban redevelopment through hegemony‐cum‐alienation, which is a more complicated process than displacement of the working class. Alienated hegemonic redevelopment perpetuates systemic reproduction and associated power politics, yet with the primary source of contradiction residing in landed and property relations. Conclusions suggest the urgency of developing new approaches instead of relying on more empirical studies as evidence for an already over‐developed concept. Analysis of the Hong Kong case suggests how the spent concept of gentrification could be superseded by alternatives.
Comparative study of laparoscopic radical prostatectomy and robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy on perioperative, oncological and functional outcomes
Authors: Cheng Kwun‐Chung , Chan Yun‐Sang , Chau Hin , Lam Kin‐Man , So Hing‐Shing 
Published: August 2017

AimThe aim of the present study was to evaluate the perioperative, oncological and functional outcomes of laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP) and robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) performed at our centres.Patients and MethodsAll LRP and RARP performed from January 2011 to June 2016 were reviewed through electronic patient records. The preoperative cancer characteristics, perioperative parameters, pathology, oncological and functional outcomes were studied.ResultsA total of 136 men were included in the analysis. RARP had a significantly less estimated blood loss (933 mL vs 361 mL, P < 0.01) than LRP. Positive surgical margins were noted in 42.6 and 35.2 per cent for LRP and RARP. Four‐year biochemical recurrence‐free survival was 79.4 per cent. There were no difference across the two groups. The 3‐, 12‐, 24‐ and 36‐month continence rates were 51.6, 86.8, 86.6 and 84.6 per cent, respectively. Early continence was better in RARP. The Urogenital Distress Inventory‐6 was significantly lower for RARP at 6 weeks and 3 and 12 months, while the Incontinence Impact Questionnaires‐7 was lower for RARP at 6 weeks and at 3 months. The 3‐, 12‐, 24‐ and 36‐month erection sufficient for intercourse (ESI) rates were 11.6; 25.5; 28.4 and 21.4 per cent, respectively. More men achieved ESI after 12 months in RARP. The International Index of Erectile Function 5‐item version score was higher in RARP from 12 months onwards.ConclusionRARP appears to be a promising approach for greater minimally‐invasive benefit and functional outcome, without jeopardizing oncological control.
Is High‐Volume Online Hemodiafiltration Associated With Malnutrition?
Authors: Macías Nicolás , Vega Almudena , Abad Soraya , Santos Alba , Cedeño Santiago , Linares Tania , García‐Prieto Ana María , Aragoncillo Inés , Yuste Claudia , López‐Gómez Juan Manuel 
Published: August 2017

AbstractChronic malnutrition is a common problem in patients with end‐stage renal disease on hemodialysis. Some studies have reported albumin loss into dialysis fluid during postdilution online hemodiafiltration (OL‐HDF). The aim of the study was to assess the nutritional status of patients on high‐volume OL‐HDF and to demonstrate that higher convective clearances are not associated with malnutrition due to possible loss of nutrients with ultrafiltration. Demographic and clinical data, corporal composition with bioimpedance spectroscopy, dialysis features, albumin loss into dialysis fluid and laboratory parameters were collected in twenty‐eight patients with ESRD undergoing postdilution OL‐HDF with stable convective volumes over 28 L/session. Convective volume (CV) in the last six months was 32.51 ± 3.52 L per session. Cross‐sectional analysis of dialysis features showed 32.7 ± 3.34 L of CV and high reduction rates of beta‐2‐microglobulin (84.2 ± 3.8%) and cystatin‐C (81.6 ± 3.47%). Beta‐2‐microglobulin reduction showed a positive correlation with prealbumin levels (P = 0.048). CV was only correlated with cystatin‐C reduction (P = 0.025). Estimated albumin loss into dialysis fluid (1.82 ± 1.05 g/session) was not related to laboratory or bioimpedance nutritional parameters, or to CV. Among patients with higher CV, serum albumin levels maintained more stability during the observational period. High volume OL‐HDF results in better convective clearances and is not associated with malnutrition. Albumin and nutrients loss into dialysis fluid should not be a limiting factor of the substitution volume.
Estimates of effectiveness and reach for ‘return on investment’ modelling of smoking cessation interventions using data from England
Authors: West Robert , Coyle Kathryn , Owen Lesley , Coyle Doug , Pokhrel Subhash ,   On behalf of the EQUIPT Study Group
Published: August 2017

AbstractBackground and aimsEstimating ‘return on investment’ (ROI) from smoking cessation interventions requires reach and effectiveness parameters for interventions for use in economic models such as the EQUIPT ROI tool (http://roi.equipt.eu). This paper describes the derivation of these parameter estimates for England that can be adapted to create ROI models for use by other countries.MethodsEstimates were derived for interventions in terms of their reach and effectiveness in: (1) promoting quit attempts and (2) improving the success of quit attempts (abstinence for at least 12 months). The sources were systematic reviews of efficacy supplemented by individual effectiveness evaluations and national surveys.FindingsQuit attempt rates were estimated to be increased by the following percentages (with reach in parentheses): 20% by tax increases raising the cost of smoking 5% above the cost of living index (100%); 10% by enforced comprehensive indoor public smoking bans (100%); 3% by mass media campaigns achieving 400 gross rating points (100%); 40% by brief opportunistic physician advice (21%); and 110% by use of a licensed nicotine product to reduce cigarette consumption (12%). Quit success rates were estimated to be increased by the following ratios: 60% by single‐form nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) (5%); 114% by NRT patch plus a faster‐acting NRT (2%);124% by prescribed varenicline (5%); 60% by bupropion (1%); 100% by nortriptyline (0%), 10) 298% by cytisine (0%); 40% by individual face‐to‐face behavioural support (2%); 37% by telephone support (0.5%); 88% by group behavioural support (1%); 63% by text messaging (0.5%); and 19% by printed self‐help materials (1%). There was insufficient evidence to obtain reliable, country‐specific estimates for interventions such as websites, smartphone applications and e‐cigarettes.ConclusionsTax increases, indoor smoking bans, brief opportunistic physician advice and use of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) for smoking reduction can all increase population quit attempt rates. Quit success rates can be increased by provision of NRT, varenicline, bupropion, nortriptyline, cytisine and behavioural support delivered through a variety of modalities. Parameter estimates for the effectiveness and reach of these interventions can contribute to return on investment estimates in support of national or regional policy decisions.
Status and progress of treatment methods for root caries in the last decade: a literature review
Authors: Cai J , Palamara JEA , Manton DJ , Burrow MF 
Published: August 2017

AbstractThe aim of this literature review is to explore the treatment methods for root caries in laboratory and clinical research in the last decade. A systematic search of publications in PubMed and Web of Science databases was performed. The timespan was limited to the last 10 years and English language. Further retrieval was conducted using the search terms of specific therapies or treatments. Eighty‐two articles were included in this systematic review and full texts were retrieved. Types of studies included laboratory studies and clinical trials. Therapeutic approaches for root caries without risk of pulp exposure can be categorized into non‐invasive and restorative treatment. Non‐invasive treatments which targeted different causative factors of root caries have been developed in the last decade. Accordingly, several artificial caries model systems have been proposed for the study of root caries in the laboratory. Carious tissue excavation techniques and restorative materials and procedures have been modified to improve the prognosis of invasive treatment. It is of importance to determine the most appropriate therapy for root caries and further clinical trials are needed to draw firm conclusions concerning the efficacy and consistency of the various treatment methods proposed.
Thrombocalc: implementation and uptake of personalized postpartum venous thromboembolism risk assessment in a high‐throughput obstetric environment
Authors: O'Shaughnessy Fergal , Donnelly Jennifer C. , Cooley Sharon M. , Deering Mary , Raman Ajita , Gannon Geraldine , Hickey Jane , Holland Alan , Hayes Niamh , Bennett Kathleen , Ní Áinle Fionnuala , Cleary Brian J. 
Published: August 2017

AbstractIntroductionVenous thromboembolism risk assessment (VTERA) is recommended in all pregnant and postpartum women. Our objective was to develop, pilot and implement a user‐friendly electronic VTERA tool.Material and methodsWe developed “Thrombocalc”, an electronic VTERA tool using Microsoft EXCEL™. Thrombocalc was designed as a score‐based tool to facilitate rapid assessment of all women after childbirth. Calculation of a total score estimated risk of venous thromboembolism in line with consensus guidelines. Recommendations for thromboprophylaxis were included in the VTERA output. Implementation was phased. Uptake of the VTERA tool was assessed prospectively by monitoring the proportion of women who gave birth in our institution and had a completed risk assessment. Factors affecting completion and accuracy of risk assessments were also assessed.ResultsThrombocalc was used prospectively to risk‐assess 8380 women between September 2014 and December 2015. Compliance with this tool increased dramatically throughout the study period; over 92% of women were risk‐assessed in the last quarter of data collection. Compliance was not adversely affected if delivery took place out of working hours [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.03, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.93–1.14]. Risk assessment was less likely in the case of cesarean deliveries (aOR 0.66, 95% CI 0.60–0.73) and stillborn infants (aOR 0.48, 95% CI 0.29–0.79). Misclassification of risk factors led to approximately 207 (2.5%) inaccurate thromboprophylaxis recommendations.ConclusionsOur electronic, score‐based VTERA tool provides a highly effective mechanism for rapid assessment of individual postpartum venous thromboembolism risk in a high‐throughput environment.
Declining prevalence of cytological squamous intraepithelial lesions of the cervix among women living with well‐controlled HIV – Most women living with HIV do not need annual PAP smear screening
Authors: Aho Inka , Kivelä Pia , Haukka Jari , Sutinen Jussi , Heikinheimo Oskari 
Published: August 2017

AbstractIntroductionCervical screening by means of annual Papanicolaou (PAP) smears has been recommended for all women living with HIV. We analysed the results of our annual PAP smear screening program to identify low‐risk subgroups for less rigorous screening.Material and methodsThe study comprised 369 women followed at the Helsinki University Hospital 2002–2013, with a total of 2033 PAP smear results. We analyzed the temporal changes in PAP smear findings. Logistic regression analysis for binominal dependent variables was used for assessing risk factors for ever having cytological squamous intraepithelial lesions (hereafter referred as SIL) using generalized estimating equations taking into account multiple observations of each patient.ResultsMost women had well‐controlled HIV, especially towards the end of the study. PAP smear results improved substantially. At the time of each individual's last PAP smear, 90.0% of the findings displayed normal results. Conversely, the rate of SIL decreased from 16.8% to 4.6% from 2002 to 2013. In multivariate analysis the risk of SIL was significantly lower in women with consecutive normal PAP smear findings during the first two years of follow up [odds ratio (OR) 0.21, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.10–0.45, p < 0.001] and with CD4 counts >500 cells/μL (OR 0.11, 95% CI 0.05–0.26, p < 0.001).ConclusionsWidespread use of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) and systematic cervical screening has reduced the rate of abnormal PAP smears. It seems feasible to identify low‐risk women by combining HIV‐related information and PAP smear results. Screening low‐risk women living with HIV at three‐year intervals similar to HIV‐negative women appears justified.
Complications in operative hysteroscopy – is prevention possible?
Authors: Aas‐Eng Mee Kristine , Langebrekke Anton , Hudelist Gernot 
Published: August 2017

AbstractOperative hysteroscopy in a hospital setting has revolutionized surgical treatment of benign uterine disorders. It is minimally invasive, cost‐ and time‐effective, and may spare patients major surgical interventions. Operative hysteroscopy in a day‐case hospital setting is regarded as a safe and well‐tolerated procedure with low complication rates. However, prevention of adverse events is crucial in daily practice to optimize patient care. Complications in operative hysteroscopy can be divided into early complications, including bleeding, uterine perforation, infection and fluid overload, or late complications and suboptimal outcomes, such as incomplete resection and intrauterine adhesions. Awareness and knowledge of management of adverse events as well as the use of possible preventative measures will increase the quality and safety of hysteroscopic surgery. The present commentary focuses on these issues as an up‐to‐date basis for everyday clinical practice.