Comparison of prediction methods for multicollinear data

In this paper we discuss the partial least squares (PLS) prediction method. The method is compared to the predictor based on principal component regression (PCR). Both theoretical considerations and computations on artificial and real data are presented.     

Bias-corrected maximum likelihood estimation of the parameters of the generalized Pareto distribution

ABSTRACT

We derive analytic expressions for the biases, to O(n^?1), of the maximum likelihood estimators of the parameters of the generalized Pareto distribution. Using these expressions to bias-correct the estimators in a selective manner is found to be extremely effective in terms of bias reduction, and can also result in a small reduction in relative mean squared error (MSE). In terms of remaining relative bias, the analytic bias-corrected estimators are somewhat less effective than their counterparts obtained by using a parametric bootstrap bias correction. However, the analytic correction out-performs the bootstrap correction in terms of remaining %MSE. It also performs credibly relative to other recently proposed estimators for this distribution. Taking into account the relative computational costs, this leads us to recommend the selective use of the analytic bias adjustment for most practical situations.     

Investing with Prejudice: the Relationship Between Women's Presence on Company Boards and Objective and Subjective Measures of Company Performance

This paper presents a comprehensive archival examination of FTSE 100 companies in the period 2001–2005, focusing on the relationship between the presence of women on company boards and both accountancy‐based and stock‐based measures of company performance. Consistent with work by Adams, Gupta and Leeth this analysis reveals that there was no relationship between women's presence on boards and ‘objective’ accountancy‐based measures of performance (return on assets, return on equity). However, consistent with ‘glass cliff’ research there was a negative relationship between women's presence on boards and ‘subjective’ stock‐based measures of performance. Companies with male‐only boards enjoyed a valuation premium of 37% relative to firms with a woman on their board. Results support claims that women are found on the boards of companies that are perceived to be performing poorly and that their presence on boards can lead to the devaluation of companies by investors. Yet the findings also indicate that perceptions and investment are not aligned with the underlying realities of company performance.     

The chronically traumatized child

This article discusses the effects of chronic traumatization on children, and its various manifestations in children. It further explains the typical symptom picture, and elaborates treatment issues unique to working with the effects of chronic trauma. Countertransference issues specific to this area are discussed.Dr. Ryan is in private practice in Oak Park, Illinois and is a Research Advisor at the Smith College School for Social Work.     

Women and Weight: A Treatment Programme for Both Normal and Overweight Women Preoccupied by Eating and Related Issues

In this paper a guide to group therapy for women with chronic concerns about overweight, body image and eating behaviour is described. The first level of therapy constitutes a ten-week course designed to help women break obsessional preoccupation with eating, weight and body image. A dilemma is posed so that women see themselves struggling paradoxically for social conformity for thinness on the one hand and to provide nurture and food on the other. The contributions of social environment, early learning and family tradition, present family structure and inappropriate treatment modalities are examined. The second level of treatment is designed for severely obese women who have succeeded in breaking the obsessional concern with eating behaviour. This level focuses on family of origin restraints as well as on current family and particularly marital restraints to weight loss. The preliminary outcome studies have been encouraging but long-term results are not yet available.     

Structure,agency, and the Nicaraguan Revolution

Theory and Society -     

The role of foster parents in helping young people develop emancipation skills

The current focus on preparing youths in foster care for emancipation has largely ignored the critical role foster parents have always played in preparing youths to leave their homes and take their place as successful adults in our society. To assure that programs to enhance youths' skills and abilities to function responsibly are fully effective, they must include foster parents. In doing so, they will exponentially increase the hours of service and training available to eligible youths and develop a resource that will be available to future youths after funds are redirected. It is unrealistic, however, to expect foster parents to provide all of the help that most youths in foster care need. Foster family support and training must be seen as one dimension of an integrated approach that provides all youths with a variety of resources but is specific to the needs of each youth. With appropriate support and training, foster parents can assume professional responsibility for assuring that such plans are implemented, and that youths leaving foster care have what they need to emancipate successfully.     

Providing shelter

1. Individuals with chronic mental illness are a diverse group requiring a variety of housing options to live successfully in the community. 2. Assistance in obtaining safe, affordable housing must be part of a comprehensive treatment plan for individuals with chronic mental illness if homelessness is to be avoided. 3. Nurses are caring for the homeless in many capacities, including staff and volunteer positions. 4. Single room occupancy housing provided by a supportive staff is an effective alternative to institutionalization for assisting individuals with chronic mental illness to live in the community.