The Loss in Efficiency from Using Grouped Data

We derive the efficiency loss from using grouped data to estimate coefficients of variables that vary across groups but not individuals within a group (e.g., state unemployment rates) when micro data are unavailable on the dependent variable. We present an empirical example of our theoretical results, and show that the efficiency loss in this application is small.grouped data, relative efficiency

Simultaneous probability statements for Bayesian P-splines

P-splines are a popular approach for fitting nonlinear effects of continuous covariates in semiparametric regression models. Recently, a Bayesian version for P-splines has been developed on the basis of Markov chain Monte Carlo simulation techniques for inference. In this work we adopt and generalize the concept of Bayesian contour probabilities to Bayesian P-splines within a generalized additive models framework. More specifically, we aim at computing the maximum credible level (sometimes called Bayesian p-value) for which a particular parameter vector of interest lies within the corresponding highest posterior density (HPD) region. We are particularly interested in parameter vectors that correspond to a constant, linear or more generally a polynomial fit. As an alternative to HPD regions simultaneous credible intervals could be used to define pseudo contour probabilities. Efficient algorithms for computing contour and pseudo contour probabilities are developed. The performance of the approach is assessed through simulation studies and applications to data for the Munich rental guide and on undernutrition in Zambia and Tanzania

The Dynamical Mordell-Lang problem

Let X be a Noetherian space, let f be a continuous self-map on X, let Y be a closed subset of X, and let x be a point on X. We show that the set S consisting of all nonnegative integers n such that f^n(x) is in Y is a union of at most finitely many arithmetic progressions along with a set of Banach density zero. In particular, we obtain that given any quasi-projective variety X, any rational self-map map f on X, any subvariety Y of X, and any point x in X whose orbit under f is in the domain of definition for f, the set S is a finite union of arithmetic progressions together with a set of Banach density zero. We prove a similar result for the backward orbit of a point

Anti-cultic theology in Christian biblical interpretation: a study of Isaiah 66:1-4 and its reception

Author: Stein, Valerie A Anti-cultic theology in Christian biblical interpretation xi, 161 p. Publisher: Frankfurt am Main ; New York : Peter Lang, 2007. Series: Studies in Biblical Literature ; 97

Generalized structured additive regression based on Bayesian P-splines

Generalized additive models (GAM) for modelling nonlinear effects of continuous covariates are now well established tools for the applied statistician. In this paper we develop Bayesian GAM's and extensions to generalized structured additive regression based on one or two dimensional P-splines as the main building block. The approach extends previous work by Lang und Brezger (2003) for Gaussian responses. Inference relies on Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) simulation techniques, and is either based on iteratively weighted least squares (IWLS) proposals or on latent utility representations of (multi)categorical regression models. Our approach covers the most common univariate response distributions, e.g. the Binomial, Poisson or Gamma distribution, as well as multicategorical responses. For the first time, we present Bayesian semiparametric inference for the widely used multinomial logit models. As we will demonstrate through two applications on the forest health status of trees and a space-time analysis of health insurance data, the approach allows realistic modelling of complex problems. We consider the enormous flexibility and extendability of our approach as a main advantage of Bayesian inference based on MCMC techniques compared to more traditional approaches. Software for the methodology presented in the paper is provided within the public domain package BayesX

Barriers to collaboration between health care, social services and schools

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; line-height: 150%;"><strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%; font-family: " lang="EN-US">Background: </span></strong><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%; font-family: " lang="EN-US">It is essential for professionals from different organizations to collaborate when handling matters concerning children, adolescents, and their families in order to enable society to provide holistic health care and social services. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: " lang="EN-US"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; line-height: 150%;"><strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%; font-family: " lang="EN-US">Objective: </span></strong><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%; font-family: " lang="EN-US">This paper reports perceptions of obstacles to collaboration among professionals in health care (county council), social services (municipality), and schools in an administrative district of the city of Stockholm, Sweden. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: " lang="EN-US"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: " lang="EN-US">Methods: </span></strong><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: " lang="EN-US">Data were collected in focus group interviews with unit managers and employees. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: " lang="EN-US"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; line-height: 150%;"><strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%; font-family: " lang="EN-US">Results and discussion: </span></strong><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%; font-family: " lang="EN-US">Our results show that the responsibility for collaboration fell largely on the professionals. Also, there was a <em style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">lack of clarity</em> regarding differences in mission and regulations, allocation of responsibilities, competence, explanatory models, and working approach. We conclude that a <em style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">holding environment</em> and a <em style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">committed management</em> would support these professionals in their efforts to collaborate.</span></p

Manfred Hutter (ed.): Religionsinterne Kritik und religiöser Pluralismus im gegenwärtigen Südostasien: Frankfurt/Main: Peter Lang, 2008, [= Religionswissenschaft 15], ISBN 978-3-631-57500-0, 253 pages [Rezension]

Review of the edited volume: Manfred Hutter (ed.): Religionsinterne Kritik und religiöser Pluralismus im gegenwärtigen Südostasien Frankfurt/Main: Peter Lang, 2008, [= Religionswissenschaft 15], ISBN 978-3-631-57500-0, 253 pagesBuchbesprechung: Manfred Hutter (ed.): Religionsinterne Kritik und religiöser Pluralismus im gegenwärtigen Südostasien. Frankfurt/Main: Peter Lang, 2008, [= Religionswissenschaft 15], ISBN 978-3-631-57500-0, 253 page

Underlying global features of the x-ray light curves of {\it swift} gamma-ray bursts

With its rapid response, {\it Swift} has revealed plenty of unexpected properties of gamma-ray bursts (GRBs). With an abundance of observations, our current understanding is only limited by complexity of early X-ray light curves. In this work, based on the public {\it Swift} data of 150 well-monitored GRBs with measured redshifts, we find some interesting global features in the rest-frame X-ray light curves. The distinct spectral behaviors between the prompt emission and the afterglow emission implies dissimilar radiation scenarios. Interestingly, an unforeseen plateau is exhibited in the prompt X-ray light curves despite the presence of complex spikes, which might indicate the presence of a steady central engine. In particular, the seemingly continuous evolution with a single power law from the prompt to the afterglow of most GRBs might place strong constraints on the theoretical models.Comment: 16 pages, 3 figures, published in ApJ Letter

Intercultural business communication and simulation and gaming methodology [Ressenya]

Review of the book: Intercultural business communication and simulation and gaming methodology / Guillén-Nieto, Carmen Marimón-Llorca & Chelo Vargas-Sierra (eds). - Bern: Peter Lang, 2009. - 392 p. - ISBN: 978-3-03911-688-1Ressenya del llibre: Intercultural business communication and simulation and gaming methodology / Guillén-Nieto, Carmen Marimón-Llorca & Chelo Vargas-Sierra (eds). - Bern: Peter Lang, 2009. - 392 p. - ISBN: 978-3-03911-688-