Statistical Terminology Research Articles

Knowledge Management and Linked Data Generation in the CIS Statistics Committee

This article presents the actions implemented by the Interstate Statistical Committee of the CIS (CIS-STAT) in knowledge management information systems, preparation of linked data and «smart» (semantically rich) metadata as part of the CIS data hub that is under construction. Based on the analysis of international experience and after conducting their own long-term research, the authors set out the purpose behind the work – to increase the efficiency and potential of using statistical data by ensuring an unambiguous and meaningful data interpretation, including in consumer information systems. To reach this goal, the authors proposed new approaches and technologies for building a knowledge management system based on the semantic network, which made it possible to link machine-interpretable semantic models with human-readable knowledge representations. Addressing the objective of organizing knowledge about statistical methodology is a key to increasing the potential for using linked data and enabling collaborative processing of statistical data. The proposed methodological and technological approach is aimed at contextualizing a subject area used to develop linked data and generate «smart» metadata. It also provides new opportunities for consumers to work with statistical data and metadata – their interpretation, meaningful analysis, comparison and joint processing. Along with a description of the systems operating cycle, the article provides a meaningful analysis of the issues of harmonizing statistical terminology, identified by practical work with the «Labor Statistics» domain. Special attention is paid to the role of the expert community in developing a knowledge management system

How to verify the analytical and clinical performance of ELISA immunoanalysis in the real laboratory practice. PCSK9 as an example

BackgroundManufacturers and diagnostic companies often recommend on-site verification of analytical performance in the clinical laboratory. The validation process used by manufacturers is rarely described in detail, and certain information on analytical performance is missing from the product sheet, especially for immunoanalytical methods. We describe an approach to the detailed validation of an ELISA method for the measurement of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) plasma concentrations. We compared manufacturers' claims of analytical performance with data obtained in the field laboratory using several approaches. MethodsWe used the Human Proprotein Convertase 9/PCSK9 Quantikine ELISA diagnostic kit (R&D systems, Bio-Techne Ltd., Abingdon Science Park, Abingdon, UK) and three levels of quality control solution Quantikine Immunoassay Control Group 235 (R&D systems, Bio-Techne Ltd., Abingdon Science Park, Abingdon, UK) to verify precision. We measured the concentration of PCSK9 using the DS2 ELISA Reader (Dynex Technologies GmbH, Denkendorf, Germany). We used analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the R statistical package (R core team, version 1.4.5). Statistical analysis and terminology were performed according to protocol CLSI EP15-A3, and the reference interval was checked according to CLSI/IFCC C28-A3c. ResultsWe found a significant difference between the manufacturer's claims of analytical performance and real data measured in the routine clinical laboratory. The calculated CV (%) for repeatability (calculated by simple estimation of the mean and SD, as used by the manufacturer) was between 5.5% and 7.4%, but the manufacturer's claim was between 4.1% and 6.5%. Using ANOVA, the true repeatability was between 5.0% and 6.9%. Similarly, ANOVA revealed values of CV (%) for within-laboratory imprecision between 6.5% and 9.1%, while the manufacturer's claims were between 4.1% and 5.9%. The recovery ranged from 105.5% to 121.8%. The manufacturer's recommended reference interval was checked and we didn't find any significant difference between men and women. ConclusionsWe describe a comprehensive approach to verify the analytical performance of an ELISA method using the measurement of PCSK9 plasma concentration as an example. We found differences between the results of this approach based on the CLSI EP15-A3 protocol and data provided by the manufacturer. We recommend the verification of analytical performance by more complex statistical tools in laboratory practice.

On the NASA GEDI and ESA CCI biomass maps: aligning for uptake in the UNFCCC global stocktake

Earth Observation data are uniquely positioned to estimate forest aboveground biomass density (AGBD) in accordance with the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) principles of ‘transparency, accuracy, completeness, consistency and comparability’. However, the use of space-based AGBD maps for national-level reporting to the UNFCCC is nearly non-existent as of 2023, the end of the first global stocktake (GST). We conduct an evidence-based comparison of AGBD estimates from the NASA Global Ecosystem Dynamics Investigation and ESA Climate Change Initiative, describing differences between the products and National Forest Inventories (NFIs), and suggesting how science teams must align efforts to inform the next GST. Between the products, in the tropics, the largest differences in estimated AGBD are primarily in the Congolese lowlands and east/southeast Asia. Where NFI data were acquired (Peru, Mexico, Lao PDR and 30 regions of Spain), both products show strong correlation to NFI-estimated AGBD, with no systematic deviations. The AGBD-richest stratum of these, the Peruvian Amazon, is accurately estimated in both. These results are remarkably promising, and to support the operational use of AGB map products for policy reporting, we describe targeted ways to align products with Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) guidelines. We recommend moving towards consistent statistical terminology, and aligning on a rigorous framework for uncertainty estimation, supported by the provision of open-science codes for large-area assessments that comprehensively report uncertainty. Further, we suggest the provision of objective and open-source guidance to integrate NFIs with multiple AGBD products, aiming to enhance the precision of national estimates. Finally, we describe and encourage the release of user-friendly product documentation, with tools that produce AGBD estimates directly applicable to the IPCC guideline methodologies. With these steps, space agencies can convey a comparable, reliable and consistent message on global biomass estimates to have actionable policy impact.

The one-way ANOVA test explained.

Quantitative methods and statistical analysis are essential tools in nursing research, as they support researchers testing phenomena, illustrate their findings clearly and accurately, and provide explanation or generalisation of the phenomenon being investigated. The most popular inferential statistics test is the one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), as it is the test designated for comparing the means of a study's target groups to identify if they are statistically different to the others. However, the nursing literature has identified that statistical tests are not being used correctly and findings are being reported incorrectly. To present and explain the one-way ANOVA. The article presents the purpose of inferential statistics and explains one-way ANOVA. It uses relevant examples to examine the steps needed to successfully apply the one-way ANOVA. The authors also provide recommendations for other statistical tests and measurements in parallel to one-way ANOVA. Nurses need to develop their understanding and knowledge of statistical methods, to engage in research and evidence-based practice. This article enhances the understanding and application of one-way ANOVAs by nursing students, novice researchers, nurses and those engaged in academic studies. Nurses, nursing students and nurse researchers need to familiarise themselves with statistical terminology and develop their understanding of statistical concepts, to support evidence-based, quality, safe care.

Guidelines for genetic ancestry inference created through roundtable discussions.

The use of genetic and genomic technology to infer ancestry is commonplace in a variety of contexts, particularly in biomedical research and for direct-to-consumer genetic testing. In 2013 and 2015, two roundtables engaged a diverse group of stakeholders toward the development of guidelines for inferring genetic ancestry in academia and industry. This report shares the stakeholder groups' work and provides an analysis of, commentary on, and views from the groundbreaking and sustained dialogue. We describe the engagement processes and the stakeholder groups' resulting statements and proposed guidelines. The guidelines focus on five key areas: application of genetic ancestry inference, assumptions and confidence/laboratory and statistical methods, terminology and population identifiers, impact on individuals and groups, and communication or translation of genetic ancestry inferences. We delineate the terms and limitations of the guidelines and discuss their critical role in advancing the development and implementation of best practices for inferring genetic ancestry and reporting the results. These efforts should inform both governmental regulation and self-regulation.

A data-intensive documentation of plant ecosystem thermoregulation across spatial and temporal scales.

This article is a Commentary on Guo et al. (2023), 238: 1004–1018.

PERCEIVED PERSONALITY CHARACTERISTICS RELATION WITH WELL-BEING AMONG ADULTS

In many circumstances of life, personality has been proven to be more closely linked with wellbeing. It may also be due to the fact that temperament and other individual’s characteristics can impact their sentiments and assessments of their lives. The present study primarily aimed to investigate mental health problems among adolescents of Pakistan. In the present study 306 adolescents participated, the sample was drawn from different colleges and universities located in the city of Faisalabad and Lahore, Pakistan. Descriptive Statistics, Correlation analysis, and t-statistics was employed to analyze the data in statistical terminology. Our results reveal that extraversion, consciousness, and agreeableness are strongly positively correlated with wellbeing, meanwhile, openness is not strongly correlated with both dimensions of wellbeing. However, neuroticism has no correlation with happiness and negatively associated with life satisfaction.

The Terms "Multivariate" and "Multivariable" Are Used Incorrectly and Interchangeably in Orthopaedic Publications: Should We Care About the Distinction?

Orthopaedic surgery research increasingly utilizes statistical models to adjust for confounding, provide additional precision, and describe complex relationships. Traditionally, a statistical model is termed "multivariable" if it examines the relationship between multiple independent variables (e.g., covariables). The term "multivariate" is used to describe statistical models with multiple dependent variables (e.g., outcomes). The precise use of statistical terminology is important for study appraisal and reproducibility. The term "multivariate" is frequently used incorrectly in the orthopaedic literature to describe statistical models with a single dependent variable. In our analysis, we found that the term "multivariate" was used frequently, and in >90% of cases, the term was used to describe models that contain only a single dependent variable. Consistent with our perception, the terms "multivariable" and "multivariate" are not used with optimal precision. Below, we discuss the impact of the misuse of statistical terminology and present suggestions for improving statistical reporting.

An analysis of statistical terminology applied in emergency medicine literature methods

IntroductionGiven the importance of understanding methodical reporting and statistical terminology in ensuring evidence-based decision-making, physicians should possess statistical literacy. The purpose of this study was to distinguish statistical terminology commonly used in emergency medicine methods and describe changes in statistical methods from 2011 to 2021. MethodsThe research team chose four journals in emergency medicine widely read and clinically relevant: Academic Emergency Medicine, American Journal of Emergency Medicine, Annals of Emergency Medicine, and Journal of Emergency Medicine. A total of 400 research articles were included. The team compared overall frequencies in statistical word counts as well as differences by year (2021 vs 2011). ResultsIncluded words from 2011 totaled 31,002 compared to 38,272 in 2021. Unique words for 2011 included 3801 compared to 4291 in 2021. The most common statistical words found in both years were model(s), difference(s), and regression(s). The largest increases in usage included the following words: noninferior(ity), NPV, Fixed, AUC, Mixed, Shapiro, and Wilk. Compared to 2011, results showed a 10% decrease in “p” for 2021. While the terms “Confidence” (2%) and “Intervals” (6%) decreased from 2011 to 2021, there was a 25% increase in “CI(s)”. ConclusionBy understanding common statistical terms and trends over time, educational efforts can be targeted to consumers of EM literature. Additionally, this work provides evidence suggesting an overall improvement in processes in statistical methodology, enhancing the quality of research outputs and ultimately allowing better clinical decision-making.

Statistical Interpretation of Anumana Pramana with Special Reference to Linga Paramarsha- A Review

Anumana means the cognition coming in to being after perception or Paramarsha. Inference is an important source of knowledge in the field of diagnosis and treatment. The symptoms described by the patient help the physician to interrogate further and to infer about the disease. Here the Anumana and Linga Paramarsha are correlated with some related modern medical statistical terminology. The present review study carried out by collecting the literature and research finding from various classical and modern text book online reports and online research articles in Google Search and PubMed Database. It is revealed that the Linga Paramarsha and its adnexa have got the prime role to establish the Anumana Pramana. The terminology as Vyapti, Pakshya, Vyapak, Hetu and Linga Paramarsha represents the statistical explanation of invariable correlation, sample, state of possession, concomitant relation, proof and proper consideration or reference respectively. Medical statistics is an essential concept to accomplish the Anumana Pramana in the purview of Linga Paramarsha Linga Paramarsha. is an essential tool in clinical practice as well as in Ayurvedic research.

PERCEIVED PERSONALITY CHARACTERISTICS RELATION WITH WELL-BEING AMONG ADULTS

In many circumstances of life, personality has been proven to be more closely linked with wellbeing. It may also be due to the fact that temperament and other individual’s characteristics can impact their sentiments and assessments of their lives. The present study primarily aimed to investigate mental health problems among adolescents of Pakistan. In the present study 306 adolescents participated, the sample was drawn from different colleges and universities located in the city of Faisalabad and Lahore, Pakistan. Descriptive Statistics, Correlation analysis, and t-statistics was employed to analyze the data in statistical terminology. Our results reveal that extraversion, consciousness, and agreeableness are strongly positively correlated with wellbeing, meanwhile, openness is not strongly correlated with both dimensions of wellbeing. However, neuroticism has no correlation with happiness and negatively associated with life satisfaction.

GPs' use and understanding of the benefits and harms of treatments for long-term conditions: a qualitative interview study.

BackgroundTo support shared decision making and improve the management of polypharmacy, it is recommended that GPs take into account quantitative information on the benefits and harms of treatments (QIRx). Quantitative evidence shows GPs’ knowledge of this is low.AimTo explore GPs’ attitudes to and understanding of QIRx for long-term conditions.Design and settingQualitative interview study in UK general practice.MethodSemi-structured interviews were carried out with 15 GPs. Audiorecordings were transcribed verbatim and a framework approach was used for analysis.ResultsParticipants described knowing or using QIRx for only a few treatments. There was awareness of this knowledge deficit coupled with low confidence in statistical terminology. Some GPs perceived an absence of this information as an important barrier to optimal care, while others were content to follow guidelines. In the absence of this knowledge, other strategies were described to individualise treatment decisions. The idea of increasing the use of QIRx appealed to most participants, with imagined benefits for patients and themselves. However, potential barriers were described: a need for accessible information that can be understood and integrated into real-world practice, system factors, and communication challenges.ConclusionGPs were aware of their knowledge deficit with regard to an understanding of QIRx. Most participants were positive about the idea of increasing their use of QIRx in practice but described important challenges, which need to be considered when designing solutions.

The National GSBPM Glossary: Methodology and Practice

This study aims to contribute to the national statistical glossary compilation, namely a glossary supporting the Generic Statistical Business Process Model (GSBPM). The GSBPM is a standard framework that allows statistical authorities to use corporate and harmonized terminology for the statistical business process. In Ukraine, the implementation of the GSBPM in statistical practice puts forward the need for its terminological support. The glossary is a means of understanding among statisticians and contributes to professional vocabulary formation. Statistical terminology today creates an independent terminological system. The system nature of statistical language is related to the professional limits and the interdependence of phenomena within these limits. As a subsystem of the general statistical system, the GSBPM has its vocabulary. We argue a complex, non-linear, and dynamic interrelation between statistical business processes in the GSBPM. The business processes form some synergy and involve professional vocabulary for different business phases, implying a non-mechanical approach to glossary compilation. According to studied international practice, there is no single approach to statistical glossaries construction and presentation. The choice of basiс international standards is crucial to ensure the GSBPM methodology and quality. We formulated several experience-based requirements and principles for the GSBPM glossary. Identified problematic issues may be useful for further work on statistical terminology. The progress in official statistics, both international and national, significantly affects this work's qualitative aspects. An essential factor in bringing national statistical language closer to international standards is undoubtedly the dialogue between the academic community and statisticians-practitioners. The development of glossaries for the General Activity Model for Statistical Organizations (GAMSO) and the Generic Statistical Information Model (GSIM) is outlined as a prospective area of further studies.

Moving from intentions to actions for collecting hunting bag statistics at the European scale: some methodological insights

For migratory birds, sustainable harvest management based on quantitative modelling needs cross-border hunting bag statistics. At the European scale, proper modelling requires both reliable and mutually compatible hunting bag data between regions and countries. Owing to the absence of harmonisation among the different hunting bag collecting schemes in Europe and the lack of methodological metadata, adaptive management at the flyway scale is currently extremely challenging for a number of species. For improving the current state of affairs, we expose statistical concepts, terminology and issues inherent to hunting bag data collection schemes; identify the multiplicity of error sources for being able to judge the quality of hunting bag statistics; call for a harmonisation process; discuss the origin of the hurdles in the production of standardised hunting bag statistics at the European scale; and suggest some potential avenues for future actions for overcoming them.

Boltzmann and the Heuristics of Representation in Statistical Mechanics


 Boltzmann’s work in physics has been studied almost always opposing a strictly mechanical approach of the 2nd law of thermodynamics – attributed to his first works in kinetic – molecular gas theory (1866-1871) – to a probabilistic approach, built and developed in his later works (1872-1884). The analysis of the use of these different approaches covers a spectrum of positions ranging from the recognition of an intrinsic incoherence to Boltzmann’s thinking, go through a radical change in the development of his work, until the adoption of pluralistic strategies as justifications for their methodological options. The purpose of this paper is to explore Boltzmann’s research program from the view of what we characterize as heuristics of representation, highlighting the tools used he used for the solution of problems related to thermal phenomena. We will argue that what in the standard historiographical analysis is understood as a radical turn in Boltzmann’s work – probabilistic “turn point”, that is, the use of an overtly statistical terminology (combinatorial formalism, 1877) instead of a kinetic language (kinetic formalism, 1872) in the analysis of evolution toward the thermal equilibrium (Maxwell’s distribution) – could be better understood as a change of representation within the same conceptual framework.

Statistical methods applied to construction process management

The goal of production management in construction processes is to increase competitive ability by reducing construction costs. By monitoring labor productivity using statistical methods, we can reduce real labor costs and administrative and production overheads by meeting or minimizing the construction schedule. The CONTEC automated system for preparing and managing construction processes combined with statistical methods assists in predicting the amount of time required to complete construction works according to the specified number of deployed work crews, technological processes and labor required for certain production in person-hours. These are expressed with the aid of statistical terminology, mean values and standard deviations. From these statistical analyses, the measures for complying with the construction schedule can then be determined, both in terms of establishing the required number of personnel and in determining and applying the changes to the technological design of the building structures. This can then assist in accelerating the progress of construction. This study statistically analyses the categories of work where labor comprises the largest proportion of costs, the greatest demand being on the total number of personnel required to complete the work critical to the progress of construction and according to its schedule.

International standards for the analysis of quality-of-life and patient-reported outcome endpoints in cancer randomised controlled trials: recommendations of the SISAQOL Consortium.

Patient-reported outcomes (PROs), such as symptoms, function, and other health-related quality-of-life aspects, are increasingly evaluated in cancer randomised controlled trials (RCTs) to provide information about treatment risks, benefits, and tolerability. However, expert opinion and critical review of the literature showed no consensus on optimal methods of PRO analysis in cancer RCTs, hindering interpretation of results. The Setting International Standards in Analyzing Patient-Reported Outcomes and Quality of Life Endpoints Data Consortium was formed to establish PRO analysis recommendations. Four issues were prioritised: developing a taxonomy of research objectives that can be matched with appropriate statistical methods, identifying appropriate statistical methods for PRO analysis, standardising statistical terminology related to missing data, and determining appropriate ways to manage missing data. This Policy Review presents recommendations for PRO analysis developed through critical literature reviews and a structured collaborative process with diverse international stakeholders, which provides a foundation for endorsement; ongoing developments of these recommendations are also discussed.

Effect of a multimodal multidisciplinary training program on pharmacy residents' knowledge and confidence toward research and biostatistics

IntroductionThe optimal method to increase pharmacy resident knowledge and confidence toward research remains unknown. ObjectiveThis study evaluated the impact of a structured curriculum on pharmacy residents' knowledge, confidence and attitude toward biostatistics and research. MethodsThis prospective, multicenter study included pharmacy residents from 2016 to 2017. Residents underwent research training with (1) 60-hours of online modules delivered by multidisciplinary senior faculty (MD, PhD), (2) a 2-day interactive workshop delivered by experienced pharmacy researchers and (3) a mentored longitudinal research experience. Fifteen residents were invited to complete a questionnaire at baseline and again before graduation to measure knowledge, confidence and attitudes about research. Residents were followed for one additional year to measure peer-reviewed publications. ResultsEleven (73%) residents provided complete responses to ≥1survey domain. At baseline, 27% of respondents reported being at least somewhat confident about their biostatistics and research skills (a favorable response for ≥5 of the 9 confidence items). At follow-up, 91% self-reported confidence. Self-reported familiarity with statistical terminology (a score of 4 or 5) increased from 19% at baseline to 82% at follow-up. The mean correct score on the knowledge items at baseline was 15 ± 2.5 (total possible 28) and increased to 20 ± 2.7 after training. By one year after graduation, 53% of residents published at least 1 peer-reviewed manuscript and 20 peer-reviewed publications as first or co-author with a median journal impact factor of 3.16 (IQR: 2.61–4.59). ConclusionThis study provides a framework for sustainable, multidisciplinary, multimodal research education that increased confidence and knowledge among pharmacy residents and resulted in tangible contributions to the scientific literature. Future studies should explore long-term knowledge gained and publications.

PCN457 THE SISAQOL INITIATIVE: ESTABLISHING INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE ANALYSIS OF PATIENT-REPORTED OUTCOMES AND QUALITY OF LIFE DATA IN ONCOLOGY RANDOMIZED CLINICAL TRIALS

Patient-reported outcome (PRO) data, such as symptoms and health-related quality of life, are increasingly being captured in cancer randomized clinical trials (RCTs) to provide valuable information on treatment risks, benefits and tolerability. Our literature review showed heterogeneity in analysis, interpretation and reporting of these data in various cancer fields, hindering comparability in results across trials. The Setting International Standards in Analyzing Patient-Reported Outcomes and Quality of Life Endpoints Data (SISAQOL) Consortium was convened to set recommendations for PRO analysis in cancer RCTs. The Consortium comprises 40 international experts including PRO researchers and statisticians, representatives from regulatory bodies, academic societies, pharmaceutical industry, cancer institutes and patient organizations to work on four priorities: (a) specification of well-defined PRO research objectives, (b) recommendations for appropriate statistical PRO analysis methods, (c) standardization of statistical terminology and (d) development of guidelines for analyzing missing data. Recommendations were developed through literature review, surveys, meeting discussions and ratified through voting in a final meeting. A taxonomy of research objectives was developed. Appropriate statistical methods, with the exception of summary measures, were proposed. Consensus was reached on the taxonomy of research objectives and statistical methods, along with a missing data definition and two rates to report missing data occurrence. While some statements concerning handling missing data or statistical analyses are still to be discussed, many statements were ratified for each of the priorities. A robust first set of PRO analyses recommendations were established in a joint process with diverse international stakeholders. Addressing the needs and requirements of these stakeholders provides a strong foundation for widespread endorsement of these recommendations. Ultimately, we expect enhanced interpretability and better impact of PRO data in cancer RCTs from harmonization of current research practices. Disclaimer: This publication reflects solely the views of the individual authors

Discussion on “Effective interdisciplinary collaboration between statisticians and other subject matter experts”

Interdisciplinary collaborations between statisticians and other subject matter experts can be fruitful endeavors that result in a deeper, more holistic approach to a problem and generate a better, more innovative solution. However, multidisciplinary collaborations only true become interdisciplinary when all team members are committed to developing a mutual understanding and respect of others’ backgrounds. By proactively preparing for the collaboration experience and becoming an effective translator of complex statistical terminology and concepts, the individual statistician can help his or her team develop the critical elements outlined in the focal article.