Doubly sparse regression incorporating graphical structure among predictors

Recent research has demonstrated that information learned from building a graphical model on the predictor set of a regularized linear regression model can be leveraged to improve prediction of a continuous outcome. In this article, we present a new model that encourages sparsity at both the level of the regression coefficients and the level of individual contributions in a decomposed representation. This model provides parameter estimates with a finite sample error bound and exhibits robustness to errors in the input graph structure. Through a simulation study and the analysis of two real data sets, we demonstrate that our model provides a predictive benefit when compared to previously proposed models. Furthermore, it is a highly flexible model that provides a unified framework for the fitting of many commonly used regularized regression models. The Canadian Journal of Statistics 47: 729–747; 2019 © 2019 Statistical Society of Canada     

An extended Gaussian max-stable process model for spatial extremes

The extremes of environmental processes are often of interest due to the damage that can be caused by extreme levels of the processes. These processes are often spatial in nature and modelling the extremes jointly at many locations can be important. In this paper, an extension of the Gaussian max-stable process is developed, enabling data from a number of locations to be modelled under a more flexible framework than in previous applications. The model is applied to annual maximum rainfall data from five sites in South-West England. For estimation we employ a pairwise likelihood within a Bayesian analysis, incorporating informative prior information.     

Similar Others in Same-Sex Couples’ Social Networks

Same-sex couples experience unique minority stressors. It is known that strong social networks facilitate access to psychosocial resources that help people reduce and manage stress. However, little is known about the social networks of same-sex couples, in particular their connections to other same-sex couples, which is important to understand given that the presence of similar others in social networks can ameliorate social stress for stigmatized populations. In this brief report, we present data from a diverse sample of 120 same-sex couples in Atlanta and San Francisco. The median number of other same-sex couples known was 12; couples where one partner was non-Hispanic White and the other a person of color knew relatively few other same-sex couples; and there was a high degree of homophily within the social networks of same-sex couples. These data establish a useful starting point for future investigations of couples’ social networks, especially couples whose relationships are stigmatized or marginalized in some way. Better understandings of the size, composition, and functions of same-sex couples’ social networks are critically needed.     

Geospatial Indicators of Space and Place: A Review of Multilevel Studies of HIV Prevention and Care Outcomes Among Young Men Who Have Sex With Men in the United States

Young men who have sex with men (YMSM), particularly YMSM who are racial/ethnic minorities, are disproportionately affected by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemic in the United States. These HIV disparities have been linked to demographic, social, and physical geospatial characteristics. The objective of this scoping review was to summarize the existing evidence from multilevel studies examining how geospatial characteristics are associated with HIV prevention and care outcomes among YMSM populations. Our literature search uncovered 126 peer-reviewed articles, of which 17 were eligible for inclusion based on our review criteria. Nine studies examined geospatial characteristics as predictors of HIV prevention outcomes. Nine of the 17 studies reported HIV care outcomes. From the synthesis regarding the current state of research around geospatial correlates of behavioral and biological HIV risk, we propose strategies to move the field forward in order to inform the design of future multilevel research and intervention studies for this population.     

Effects of Mindfulness-Based Therapies for Female Sexual Dysfunction: A Meta-Analytic Review

Mindfulness-based therapy (MBT) represents a potentially efficacious treatment for female sexual dysfunction (FSD). A number of recent trials assessing MBT for FSD have been published, but we are aware of no existing meta-analysis synthesizing these results. We conducted a literature review to identify all published trials of MBT for FSD. References of retrieved studies were searched and key authors were contacted with requests for complete but unpublished trials. Eleven trials, including a total of 449 participants, were identified. Two of these studies were under review at the time of the current analyses. Four trials utilized wait-list controls. All aspects of sexual function and subjective sexual well-being exhibited significant improvement during MBT, with effect sizes generally moderate. Controlled effect sizes versus wait list were of similar magnitude in most cases; however, they did not reach statistical significance for multiple outcome measures. Results for some outcomes were consistent with possible publication bias. For some outcomes, larger effect sizes tended to be reported in studies requiring participants to be in a romantic relationship or studies providing individual (versus group) therapy. MBT may be an efficacious intervention for FSD. However, important limitations of the current literature and future directions for research are discussed.     

A simple approach to analyzing clustered longitudinal data

When modeling correlated binary data in the presence of informative cluster sizes, generalized estimating equations with either resampling or inverse-weighting, are often used to correct for estimation bias. However, existing methods for the clustered longitudinal setting assume constant cluster sizes over time. We present a subject-weighted generalized estimating equations scheme that provides valid parameter estimation for the clustered longitudinal setting while allowing cluster sizes to change over time. We compare, via simulation, the performance of existing methods to our subject-weighted approach. The subject-weighted approach was the only method that showed negligible bias, with excellent coverage, for all model parameters.     

The 150-hour rule as a barrier to entering public accountancy

In many states, CPA licensure now requires 150 credit hours of college coursework thereby adding an extra semester or year of schooling beyond typical undergraduate degree requirements. Thus, the “150-hour rule” should increase the cost of becoming a CPA and, consequently, reduce the supply of new CPAs. We test this hypothesis using panel data on the number of first-time candidates for the CPA exam in each state over the years 1985 to 2002. We find that the imposition of the 150-hour education requirement reduces the number of candidates sitting for the CPA exam by 60 percent and that the “grandfathering” provisions of the 150-hour rule produce a substantial transitory increase in the number of candidates sitting for the exam in the year prior to the rule’s effective date. Examination of candidates’ pass rates on the exam also finds behavior consistent with the hypothesis that the 150-hour rule is a barrier to entry. We thank Wilson Mixon and particular the 2002 Western Economics Association and 2002 Southern Economisc Association meetings for helpful comments. We also thank Ian Elkin, Steven Simms, and especially, Keri Anderson for extraordinarily diligent ressearch assistance.     

The Durham Miners' Gala and the spirit of community

Can industrial communities survive the loss of their industrialheritage? Can communities once thought to be in terminal declinereinvigorate themselves? Evidence from the Durham coalminingcommunities suggests that the answer to both questions is yes.This paper presents evidence from a study of the annual DurhamMiners' Gala – the ‘Big Meeting’ – thatreflects a revival of community vitality around the event. Togetherwith an analysis of the Gala itself, the complex backgroundto the resilience of the mining communities is explored.