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Abstract Research is an essential part of surgical training, so a surgical trainee must publish to prosper. The most important piece of advice is to seek expert help before commencing the process of research and subsequent publication. Having a piece of research worthy of communication to peers is an essential prerequisite, but there are many different types of publication, and many different avenues for publication. Starting with a simple case report is often a good beginning. The higher profile the research, the more likely there are to be formal rules about its conduct and its publication (CONSORT, PRISMA, etc). Writing in scientific English requires economy of style and linguistic restraint. The author has evolved a method to make writing a scientific manuscript as painless as possible. It may be tempting to relax once the writing is complete but managing the paper through submission can also be challenging. Most journals will not accept a paper immediately but will require corrections suggested by independent referees after formal peer review. All dealings with journal Editors should be professional and courteous. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Transmission sources used for image attenuation correction, allowing image quantification, are collimated to reduce scatter. We propose the same effect can be achieved for an uncollimated source by increasing source to patient distance. The aim was to compare planar image performance characteristics and absorbed doses of uncollimated and collimated radioactive printed paper transmission sources. The scatter contribution to the uncollimated 99mTc source data was evaluated for different combinations of detector phantom distance, detector source distance and phantom source distance. Measurements were performed by increasing the Lucite phantom thickness in 1cm steps to 20 cm. Spatial resolution, detection efficiency and entrance absorbed dose rate were measured for the uncollimated and collimated transmission source images. Results derived from the energy spectra, obtained with the uncollimated transmission source indicate that scatter contribution increases with decreasing detector source distance. The scatter component in the uncollimated transmission images (detector source distances≥60cm; phantom source distances≥40cm) was comparable to that obtained with collimated transmission images. Attenuation coefficients obtained compared well (0.168cm−1 vs. 0.171cm−1). The full widths at half maxima differed by less than 0.9mm. The detection efficiency of the uncollimated source was 2.5 times higher than obtained with the collimated source. The entrance absorbed dose obtained from an uncollimated source was 3.75 times larger than that obtained from the collimated source. An uncollimated transmission source (detector source distance≥60cm) results in acceptable image characteristics and presents a low cost, low dose, high efficiency option for transmission imaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In advanced missions, handling thin and soft membranes is difficult for robots. This task is composed of several sub-tasks, including turning and removing a sheet from a pile of papers on a table, folding paper, and sticking two pieces of paper together. In this study, a hand robot turns and removes a sheet from a pile of papers, and ensures that only one sheet is grasped. To perform this task, two robotic fingers compress the piled papers in the normal direction of the table with a specific force as they close. We therefore incorporated position-based force control into our system; for the force controller, we adopted stiffness control that calculates position modification proportionally to the difference between the target force and an external force measured by the tactile sensor. With this controller, the robot was able to remove a sheet from a pile of papers and ensure that only one sheet was removed. Using this discrimination, the maximum-minimum shearing forces are better classified than with normal force distribution deviation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The optical model for reflectance lightness of stereo paper product surface is proposed, which could promote color reproduction study of paper model products and improving color reproduction quality. The reflectance lightness was measured using non-contact measurement method with spectroradiometer, CS2000A, that can measure stereo paper product surface lightness and tristimulus. Once inputting the paper product parameters of surface angle and tone, the model will predict the reflectance lightness for stereo paper product surface. After analyzing statistical information of light transmission, paper product surface reflectance lightness can be obtained. The results showed that prediction model is versatile and easy to use, besides the model quite approached to realistic paper product surface. The optical model simulation system could sufficiently accomplish reflectance lightness, which provides a novel way to predict and reproduce printing quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• European Waste Statistics Regulation focuses on waste as a post-factum problem. • At least 76,7% of waste disposing entities do not comply to the existing guidance. • Waste producer responsibility falls on the entities that pay waste management costs. • Circular economy transition requires changes in European Waste Statistics. The announcement of a new Circular Economy Action Plan as part of the European Green Deal policy has created an urgent need for the reliable information on resource flows to monitor and support the transition. An updated Monitoring Framework is set to rely as much as possible on European Statistics, however at this point there are no changes introduced in supranational statistics regulations. This raises a question whether regulations that have been created before the paradigm shift are still able to supply us with statistics necessary to inform policy makers about current successful practices, remaining barriers, positive and negative impacts of the transition and overall progress towards the set goals. This paper focuses on the Waste Statistics Regulation, specifically the relationship between the types of waste and economic activities which are considered to be the waste producers. Dutch National Waste Registry is used as a case study to compare the guidelines on pan-European waste data collection to the actual waste reports. The task of this publication is to explore to which extent the guidelines available in the Waste Statistics Regulation correspond to the operational reality. To do so it presents a computational method to link waste producers to their economic activities using a national Trade Registry. An extensive discussion of the results provides insights and recommendations for the future guidelines of waste statistics to support circular economy transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The requirement for medical services fluctuates. This study was carried out in order to attempt to extrapolate the service requirements for various cardiology services at Mater Dei Hospital, Malta over the coming five years, based on service demands from previous years.Methods: Past annual data was obtained from hospital records for various services (to 2017). Linear regression was carried out using a bespoke Excel™ spreadsheet in order to extrapolate possible services requirements up to 2022.Results: All services are expected to increase, with forecasts ranging between 41 and 354%, depending on services being considered.Discussion: It is easy to "get on with it" and perform the work required at the workplace but this study has shown that it is equally important to anticipate demands lest lack of planning leads to long and important waiting lists for critical diagnostics and treatments. Health care provision requirements are increasing worldwide. Even using conservative estimates and in the absence of the creation of new services, the demands for extant services are likely to continue to grow. Unless medium term plans are made for hardware, software, physical space and staffing, and the funding thereof, waiting lists for investigations in this speciality are bound to rise. This may be mitigated by novel treatments but since these cannot be predicted, it would be safer and wiser to plan ahead lest we are overwhelmed. This paper has also shown how WASP (Write a Scientific Paper) precepts can be applied to elegantly study a problem and write up a paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Scientific breakthroughs are rare events, and usually recognized retrospectively. We developed methods for early detection of candidate breakthroughs, based on dynamics of publication citations and used a quantitative approach to identify typical citation patterns of known breakthrough papers and a larger group of highly cited papers. Based on these analyses, we proposed two forecasting models that were validated using statistical methods to derive confidence levels. These findings can be used to inform research portfolio management practices. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Research is an essential part of surgical training, so a surgical trainee must publish to prosper. The most important piece of advice is to seek expert help before commencing the process of research and subsequent publication. Having a piece of research worthy of communication to peers is an essential prerequisite, but there are many different types of publication, and many different avenues for publication. Starting with a simple case report is often a good beginning; publication in high-profile, high-impact-factor journals requires high-quality research such as randomized trials or systematic reviews. The more high profile the research, the more likely there are to be formal rules about its conduct and its publication (CONSORT, PRISMA etc). Writing in scientific English requires economy of style and linguistic restraint; many readers will not have English as a first language. By convention, scientific articles are written in IMRAD style – introduction, methods, results and discussion. This author has evolved a method to make writing a scientific manuscript as painless as possible. It may be tempting to relax once the writing is complete, but managing the paper through submission can also be challenging. Most journals will not accept a paper immediately, but will require corrections suggested by independent referees after formal peer review. All dealings with journal editors should be professional and courteous. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: There is little doubt surrounding the benefits of the Nutrition Care Process and International Dietetics and Nutrition Terminology (IDNT) to dietetics practice; however, evidence to support the most efficient method of incorporating these into practice is lacking. The main objective of our study was to compare the efficiency and effectiveness of an electronic and a manual paper-based system for capturing the Nutrition Care Process and IDNT in a single in-center hemodialysis unit. A cohort of 56 adult patients receiving maintenance hemodialysis were followed for 12 months. During the first 6 months, patients received the usual standard care, with documentation via a manual paper-based system. During the following 6-month period (Months 7 to 12), nutrition care was documented by an electronic system. Workload efficiency, number of IDNT codes used related to nutrition-related diagnoses, interventions, monitoring and evaluation using IDNT, nutritional status using the scored Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment Tool of Quality of Life were the main outcome measures. Compared with paper-based documentation of nutrition care, our study demonstrated that an electronic system improved the efficiency of total time spent by the dietitian by 13 minutes per consultation. There were also a greater number of nutrition-related diagnoses resolved using the electronic system compared with the paper-based documentation (P<0.001). In conclusion, the implementation of an electronic system compared with a paper-based system in a population receiving hemodialysis resulted in significant improvements in the efficiency of nutrition care and effectiveness related to patient outcomes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Paper properties such as gloss, friction or printability strongly depend on the surface roughness. However, this dependence on the roughness in relation to the measurement scale is not systematically taken into account. Paper surface topography is here studied in a multi-scale approach with the help of a focus variation device. For each measurement scale, statistical parameters were calculated to describe the surface. We isolated among the long list of parameters calculated those that were relevant for paper surface topography analysis. A new method of characterization of paper surface roughness is proposed based on a scaling analysis taken from either profile or surface data. Depending on the scale of analysis different fractal stages were exhibited. The influence of the step of discretization on the roughness parameters was also investigated. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Introduction: Many reviews of published papers in the medical literature have reported errors in statistical methods and presentation. Methods: 100 successive papers submitted to INJURY and sent for initial statistical review between December 2010 and January 2012 were analysed. The comments made on the papers were categorised and summarised. Results: Suggestions for improvement were made for 90 of the papers. An inappropriate analysis was identified in 47. Other errors were seen in 45 papers including 9 wrong p-values for the method used. Simple numerical mistakes were common (19%). An inadequate description of some element of the study was a problem in 22 papers and additional limitations to be described in Discussion were recommended in 26. Numerically most comments were made about some element of the presentation of results. Discussion: Many of the errors identified are easily avoided. Guidance on some common issues is presented. Conclusions: Statistical and numerical errors are common in papers submitted to INJURY and requiring statistical review. Following the advice in Discussion and using reporting guidelines should reduce the number of papers requiring corrections. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Self-monitoring has traditionally been done using a paper record, which can be tedious and burdensome. A personal digital assistant (PDA) with dietary software can provide an alternative to a paper record. The study aimed to describe the differences in dietary changes at 6 months between participants randomly assigned to use a paper record or PDA for self-monitoring in a clinical trial of weight-loss treatment. Self-monitoring adherence and changes in weight and diet were assessed between 2006 and 2009. The sample (n=192) was 84% female and 78% white, with a mean age of 49 years and body mass index (calculated as kg/m2) of 34.1. At baseline, the groups did not differ in energy intake, percent calories from fat, and number of servings of the examined food groups. At 6 months, both groups had significant reductions in weight, energy intake, and percent calories from total fat and saturated fatty acids (P<0.001); no between-group differences were found. Compared to the paper record group, the PDA group significantly increased consumption of fruit (P=0.02) and vegetables (P=0.04) and decreased consumption of refined grains (P=0.02). Interactions among self-monitoring and the two groups were found in relation to changes in percent calories from total fat (P=0.02), monounsaturated fatty acids (P=0.002), and trans-fatty acids (P=0.04). Frequent self-monitoring was significantly associated with total sugar (P=0.02) and added sugar (P=0.01) intake in both groups. Our findings suggest that use of a PDA for self-monitoring might improve self-awareness of behavior and dietary changes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Paper tube residuals, which are lignocellulosic wastes, have been studied as substrate for biogas (methane) production. Steam explosion and nonexplosive hydrothermal pretreatment, in combination with sodium hydroxide and/or hydrogen peroxide, have been used to improve the biogas production. The treatment conditions of temperature, time and addition of NaOH and H2O2 were statistically evaluated for methane production. Explosive pretreatment was more successful than the nonexplosive method, and gave the best results at 220°C, 10min, with addition of both 2% NaOH and 2% H2O2. Digestion of the pretreated materials at these conditions yielded 493Nml/gVS methane which was 107% more than the untreated materials. In addition, the initial digestion rate was improved by 132% compared to the untreated samples. The addition of NaOH was, besides the explosion effect, the most important factor to improve the biogas production. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Atmospheric chemical composition affects foliar chemical composition, which in turn influences the dynamics of both herbivory and decomposition in ecosystems. We assessed the independent and interactive effects of CO2 and O3 fumigation on foliar chemistry of quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides) and paper birch (Betula papyrifera) at a Free-Air CO2 Enrichment (FACE) facility in northern Wisconsin. Leaf samples were collected at five time periods during a single growing season, and analyzed for nitrogen, starch and condensed tannin concentrations, nitrogen resorption efficiencies (NREs), and C:N ratios. Enriched CO2 reduced foliar nitrogen concentrations in aspen and birch; O3 only marginally reduced nitrogen concentrations. NREs were unaffected by pollution treatment in aspen, declined with O3 exposure in birch, and thisdecline was ameliorated by enriched CO2. C:N ratios of abscised leaves increased in response to enriched CO2 in both tree species. O3 did not significantly alter C:N ratios in aspen, although values tended to be higher in +CO2+O3 leaves. For birch, O3 decreased C:N ratios underambient CO2 and increased C:N ratios under elevated CO2. Thus, under the combined pollutants, the C:N ratios of both aspen and birch leaves were elevated above the averaged responses to the individual and independent trace gas treatments. Starch concentrations were largely unresponsive to CO2 and O3treatments in aspen, but increased in response to elevated CO2 in birch. Levels of condensed tannins were negligibly affected by CO2 and O3 treatments in aspen, but increased in response to enriched CO2 in birch. Results from this work suggest that changes in foliar chemical composition elicited by enriched CO2 are likely to impact herbivory and decomposition [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper provides an introduction to set-theoretic methods with respect to their application to research in the qualitative paradigm, as part of a series of papers on qualitative research being featured in Early Human Development. It discusses the philosophical assumptions underlying set-theoretic methods and the properties that make them well-suited for use in the analysis of qualitative data. It also takes a closer look at qualitative comparative analysis (QCA), a cross-case analysis method that has arguably been most widely applied among the set-theoretic methods and has also been gaining ground in the health field. Theoretical underpinnings, sample-size considerations, set calibration, QCA software packages, parameters of fit and limitations of the method are discussed. A description of the analytic output issued by a freely available software package, fs/QCA, is used as an example to illustrate QCA results and their interpretation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Five different paper chip structures are designed in this paper. • The effects of different paper chip structures on color reaction uniformity and final detection accuracy were studied. • The experimental results show that there was no significant relationship between the color reaction uniformity and the number of channels but a positive correlation with the reaction contact area. Paper-based microfluidic chips are widely used in point-of-care testing (POCT). The structures of the paper chips impose significant impact on the detection accuracy. The mainstream of microfluidic paper chip designs can be divided into two categories, planar diffusion type and vertical diffusion type respectively. According to the two methods above, five different structures of paper chips were designed, namely Y-channel microfluidic chip, three-channel microfluidic chip, rotary array microfluidic chip, oblique double-channel microfluidic chip and multilayer solid microfluidic chip. The mean standard deviation and maximum standard deviation of gray level difference of the best multilayer solid structure comparing with the second best structure reduced by 17% and 39% respectively. Consequently, there was no significant relationship between the color reaction uniformity and the number of channels but a positive correlation with the reaction contact area. This paper offered a step toward designing paper microfluidic chip based on colorimetric method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

t-Testing is a common component of inferential statistics when comparing two means. This paper explains the central limit theorem and the concept of the null hypothesis as well as types of errors. On the practical side, this paper outlines how different t-tests may be performed in Microsoft Excel, for different purposes, both statically as well as dynamically, with Excel's functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Data collection for the purposes of analysis, after the planning and execution of a research study, commences with data input and validation. The process of data entry and analysis may appear daunting to the uninitiated, but as pointed out in the 1970s in a series of papers by British Medical Journal Deputy Editor TDV Swinscow, modern hardware and software (he was then referring to the availability of hand calculators) permits the performance of statistical testing outside a computer laboratory. In this day and age, modern software, such as the ubiquitous and almost universally familiar Microsoft Excel™ greatly facilitates this process. This first paper comprises the first of a collection of papers which will emulate Swinscow's series, in his own words, "addressed to readers who want to start at the beginning, not to those who are already skilled statisticians." These papers will have less focus on the actual arithmetic, and more emphasis on how to actually implement simple statistics, step by step, using Excel, thereby constituting the equivalent of Swinscow's papers in the personal computer age. Data entry can be facilitated by several underutilised features in Excel. This paper will explain Excel's little-known form function, data validation implementation at input stage, simple coding tips and data cleaning tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Replicates are needed for analysing individual differences. • Replicates are needed quality control of sensory data. • Accuracy not always required. • Replication structure may influence the statistical analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Much statistical teaching and many research reports focus on the 'null hypothesis significance test'. Yet the correct meaning and interpretation of statistical significance tests is elusive. Misinterpretations are both common and persistent, leading many to question whether significance tests should be used at all. While most take aim at the arbitrary declaration of p < 0.05 as a threshold for determining 'significance', others extend the critique to suggest the 'p-value' should be dispensed with entirely. P-values and significance tests are still widely used as if they give a measure of the size and importance of relationships, even though this misunderstanding has been observed and discussed for many years. We argue that p-values and significance tests are intrinsically misleading. Point estimates of relationships and confidence intervals give direct information about the effect and the uncertainty of the estimate without recourse to interpreting how a particular p-value might have arisen or indeed referring to them at all. In this paper we briefly outline some of the problems with significance testing, offer a number of examples selected from a recent issue of the International Journal of Nursing Studies and discuss some proposed responses to these problems. We conclude by offering some guidance to authors reporting statistical tests in journals and present a position statement that has been adopted by the International Journal of Nursing Studies to guide its' authors in reporting the results of statistical analyses. While stopping short of calling for an outright ban on reporting p-values and significance tests we urge authors (and journals) to place more emphasis on measures of effect and estimates of precision/uncertainty and, following the position of the American Statistical Association, emphasise that authors (and readers) should avoid using 0.05 or any other cut off for a p-value as the basis for a decision about the meaningfulness/importance of an effect. If point estimates and confidence intervals are used, then the p-value may be redundant and can be omitted from reports. When authors talk about 'significance' they need to be explicit when referring to statistical significance and we recommend authors adopt the language of 'importance' when talking about effect sizes to avoid any confusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Linear regression is the equation which provides of straight line that best describes the association between two continuous variables, x and y. However, it is often the case that the dependent variable y is influenced by more than one variable and not just a single x variable. Multivariate analysis is a statistical modeling technique wherein multiple x variables are analysed simultaneously for their effect on y, resulting in an additive model (via an equation) that explains the observation/s and corrects for confounding association/s using one dependent and several independent variables, assigning a gradient to each of these independent variables, and with all product terms of gradient and magnitude of the independent variables adding up to estimate 'y'. This paper outlines these various techniques and applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Correlation and regression measure the closeness of association between two continuous variables. This paper explains how to perform these tests in Microsoft Excel and their interpretation, as well as how to apply these tests dynamically using Excel's functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plotting data into graphs is a crucial step in data analysis as part of an initial descriptive statistics exercise since it gives the researcher an overview of the shape and nature of the data. Outlier values may also be identified, and these may be incorrect data, or true and important outliers. This paper explains how to access Microsoft Excel's Analysis Toolpak and provides some pointers for the utilisation of the histogram tool within the Toolpak. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Current production structures require large amounts of primary materials and are not likely to be sustained without large implications for the environment. A good understanding of societal metabolism is likely to contribute to more sustainable production and consumption. Material flow analysis (MFA) intends to support this understanding by providing insight in material flows. In this article a new method for analyzing materials flows, called STREAMS, is tested. The method is applied to analyze the paper and wood flow through the economic system of The Netherlands. The method is based on data available from the so-called supply and use tables; these tables are made available by Statistics Netherlands and describe the economy of a country in terms ofannual supply and use of goods and services by industries and consumers. The method proves to be very useful in analyzing the paper and wood flow in The Netherlands. The method provides detailed informationabout the final consumption of paper and wood, even for packaging materials and product parts made out of paper and wood. Trends are visible that statistical offices collect less physical data about material flows. This will make the construction of material flow analyses like this one more difficult in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To compare the diagnostic performance of computerized and paper-and-pencil memory tests in detection of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia. Design Diagnostic studies comparing computerized or paper-and-pencil memory tests with the standard diagnostic criterion for MCI or dementia were identified from OVID databases. The primary outcome was the diagnostic performance of memory tests for detection of MCI, and detection of dementia was the secondary outcome. Risk of bias and reporting quality in included studies was assessed. Setting and Participants Participants with MCI and dementia in any kind of setting. Measures Bivariate random-effects models were used to combine the diagnostic performance of memory tests and presented with a summary receiver-operating characteristic curve. Results A total of 58 studies with 18,450 participants with mean age ranging from 55 to 84 years were included. For the verbal memory tests on patients with MCI, computerized tests showed diagnostic accuracy of 0.89 sensitivity (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.69–0.97) and 0.82 specificity (95% CI 0.70–0.90), whereas paper-and-pencil tests showed diagnostic accuracy of 0.86 sensitivity (95% CI 0.82–0.90) and 0.82 specificity (95% CI 0.76–0.86). For the visual memory tests on MCI patients, computerized tests showed diagnostic accuracy of 0.79 sensitivity (95% CI 0.71–0.84) and 0.80 specificity (95% CI 0.71–0.86), whereas paper-and-pencil tests showed diagnostic accuracy of 0.80 sensitivity (95% CI 0.67–0.89) and 0.68 specificity (95% CI 0.51–0.81). The findings were also comparable to those with dementia. Conclusions/Implications Both verbal and visual computerized memory tests showed comparable diagnostic performance to the paper-and-pencil tests. Computerized cognitive tests show a great potential to use as an alternative to paper-and-pencil tests. When the records can be digitalized, long-term monitoring of cognitive function will be feasible for better management of dementia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is an established and already accomplished fact that probability-based methodologies (or probability/statistical distributions) play the roles of imperative tools in illustrating and describing applied phenomena. Paying attention to these previous facts, this paper considers the evolution of a new probability distribution. Thus, the main achievement of this paper leads to a new probability distribution as a result of combining the exponentiated exponential model with a tangent-based stratagem. The new model is called the tangent exponentiated exponential (TEE) distribution. For the TEE distribution, certain distributional properties and estimators of the model parameters are derived mathematically. The appraisal of the estimators of the TEE distribution is accomplished through a simulation study. Moreover, the applicability and virtuoso of the TEE distribution are exemplified via two data sets, which are taken from the music engineering (named Data 1) and reliability sector (named Data 2). By considering the p -value and three other important statistical tests/methods as diagnostic tools, we find that the TEE distribution is the most useful and optimal model for Data 1 and Data 2 compared to certain candidate probability distributions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper builds on the framework proposed by Pattison and Snijders (2012) for specifying exponential random graph models (ERGMs) for social networks. We briefly review the two-dimensional hierarchy of potential dependence structures for network tie variables that they outlined and provide proofs of the relationships among the model forms and of the nature of their sufficient statistics, noting that models in the hierarchy have the potential to reflect the outcome of processes of cohesion, closure, boundary and bridge formation and path creation over short or longer network distances. We then focus on the so-called partial inclusion dependence assumptions among network tie variables and the pendant-triangle , or paw , statistics to which they give rise, and illustrate their application in an empirical setting. We argue that the partial inclusion assumption leads to models that can reflect processes of boundary and bridge formation and that the model hierarchy provides a broad and useful framework for the statistical analysis of network data. We demonstrate in the chosen setting that pendant-triangle (or paw) effects, in particular, lead to a marked improvement in goodness-of-fit and hence add a potentially valuable capacity for modelling social networks. • The paper provides a principled basis for some new effects for exponential random graph models for social networks • We describe how these new terms can be used to understand processes of boundary and bridge formation in networks • We demonstrate that these new terms improve goodness-of-fit in an illustrative application [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Analysis of variance (ANOVA) may be required by researchers as an inferential statistical test when more than two means require comparison. This paper explains how to perform ANOVA in Microsoft Excel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The calculation of descriptive statistics includes the calculation of standard error and confidence interval, an inevitable component of data analysis in inferential statistics. This paper provides pointers as to how to do this in Microsoft Excel™. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The calculation of descriptive statistics after data collection provides researchers with an overview of the shape and nature of their datasets, along with basic descriptors, and may help identify true or incorrect outlier values. This exercise should always precede inferential statistics, when possible. This paper provides some pointers for doing so in Microsoft Excel, both statically and dynamically, with Excel's functions, including the calculation of standard deviation and variance and the relevance of the t-distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The plotting of data into graphs should be a mandatory step in all data analysis as part of a descriptive statistics exercise, since it gives the researcher an overview of the shape and nature of the data. Moreover, outlier values may be identified, which may be incorrect data, or true outliers, from which important findings (and publications) may arise. This exercise should always precede inferential statistics, when possible, and this paper in the Early Human Development WASP series provides some pointers for doing so in Microsoft Excel™. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contingency tables may be required to perform chi-test analyses. This provides pointers as to how to do this in Microsoft Excel and explains how to set up methods to calculate confidence intervals for proportions, including proportions with zero numerators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This editorial is an annex, essentially an amplification of earlier Animal Feed Science and Technology (AFST) editorials which focused on analytical and statistical issues of papers submitted for publication in AFST. This amplification is needed because, since publication of those editorials, there has been a sharp increase in papers submitted to AFST (particularly in vitro gas, ruminal in sacco, continuous culture fermenter and mini-silo studies), in which there have been substantive disagreements among authors, reviewers and editors as to what, exactly, constitutes acceptable statistical replicates as opposed to pseudo replicates. In this editorial, the Co-Editors in Chief of AFST provide clarification of their view relative to use of analytical observations in statistical analyses in papers submitted for consideration for publication in AFST. If the objective is to compare feeds and from the results, make inferences to populations, only multiple samples of each feed represent an acceptable feed base. This suggests that means comparisons based on repeated assays of the same sample, whether by chemical, physical or microbiological methods, will almost certainly be rejected by the CEIC. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Bayesian statistics was applied to a small sample database of the tensile properties of five different brands of writing paper which were perceptibly similar. The measured parameters in the database were found to overlap for the five brands. This posed a limitation to the application of the classical approach for “match” or “no match”. It was found that using Bayesian statistics for source correspondence, a mere 2–3 measurements corresponding to a particular brand raised the probabilities associated with that brand to as high a 72% and eliminating a couple of brands. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Machine learning algorithm is one of the most popular research fields in the 21st century, and it is widely used in various industries. This paper first discusses the development status, characteristics and intelligent classification technology of e-commerce based on various methods. Then, through statistical analysis of multiple samples, this paper establishes a model to predict the quantity of goods and other time-related changes in the future period of time, and proposes an improved variance estimate to achieve the best effect under different data scenarios. Finally, the experiment proves that the response time of the linear regression algorithm fluctuates between 20ms and 25ms, and the overall fluctuation is small. For different samples, the response time of the linear regression algorithm is maintained in a relatively stable range, showing the stability of different input data. The response time of the decision tree algorithm fluctuates between 28ms and 33ms, showing a certain fluctuation. For different samples, the response time of decision tree algorithm fluctuates greatly, which may be affected by the characteristics of input data and show different processing efficiency. The response time of support vector machine algorithm fluctuates between 14ms and 18ms, and the change is relatively stable. For different samples, the response time of SVM algorithm is kept at a relatively stable level, showing the consistency of input data processing ability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurately evaluating the mixing efficiency of a planetary concrete mixer is the linchpin of estimating the rationality of the mixer structure, but it is currently difficult to establish a general and systematic evaluation method. This paper proposed a digital method for evaluating the planetary mixer efficiency based on the kinematic model of the mixing blade. The mixing efficiency of two typical symmetrical and asymmetrical planetary mixers was compared based on the digital data computed using the proposed method. An automated concrete mixing platform was established to experimentally validate the digital evaluation method. The results indicated that the asymmetric planetary mixer had higher mixing efficiency than the symmetric mixer. Additionally, the mixing efficiency of symmetric mixer increased about 18% as the angle between the two planetary arms changed from 90 ° to 45 °, which was due to the difference in the coverage of the mixing blades on the mixing surface. [Display omitted] • Digitization of the mixing process of planetary concrete mixers. • Simplify the mixing movements of blades from 3-D to 2-D. • Statistical analysis of the mixing efficiency of mixers. • An experimental scheme for kinematic verification is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main aim of the study was to effects evaluation of physical and chemical indicators on water turbidity by data mining algorithm. In order to perform the evaluation experimental measurements were performed to acquire data for the statistical analysis. The data represents the physical and chemical properties of clean water. Adaptive neuro fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) was used as data mining algorithm to determine the effects of chemical and physical indicators on water turbidity. The obtained results could be used to improve and to maintain the quality of the clean water. • To analyze water turbidity by data mining approach. • Experimental investigation was made to acquire data for the statistical analysis. • The data represents the chemical and physical properties of the clean water. • To maintain the quality of the clean water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spreadsheet analysis software allows easy data management, as has been shown by the WASP (Write a Scientific Paper) sets of papers in these Best Practice Guidelines (BGP) in the previous issues. However, commonly available spreadsheet software, such as Excel, is weaker on the more advanced statistical techniques. Potential alternatives include the creation of custom macros, the utilisation of an Excel add-in, or using a standard, stand-alone, dedicated statistics package. This does not imply that Excel need be abandoned. Indeed, many users prepare their data in Excel and later transfer it into a statistical package for advanced analysis. Results may then potentially be returned into Excel for graphical depiction. Some examples of such advanced statistical techniques are given in this Best Practice Guideline (BPG) collection. The upcoming non-statistics papers in the WASP BPG series should be found equally useful to researchers who are new to paper writing, such as the one included in this particular set which outlines the writing of a research proposal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ability to write a scientific paper (WASP) is becoming progressively more critical because the "publish or perish" mantra is increasingly valid in today's world where success is judged by number of publications and quality of publications based on journals which publish the researcher's work. These metrics are used to gauge applicants in often cut-throat competitions for jobs and/or career advancement. However, the science and art of paper-writing comprise a vast panoply of different skills, from writing a proposal, to ethics and data protection applications, to data collection and analysis, to writing and dealing with editors and authors, and so on. Over the next few issues, Early Human Development will embark on a series of Best Practice Guidelines that will outline and explain the various requisite WASP skills while providing practical guidelines for paper writing. The purpose is to impart the authors' collective experience to trainees in this crucial aspect of career progress. This first set of WASP papers will mainly focus on statistical analysis using Excel™. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Data may be normally distributed in which case standard and relatively familiar tests may be used for inferential testing. Or data may be non-normally distributed, such as ordinal data, in which case, non-parametric tests are usually advocated. This paper will review current thinking with regard to these tests, and the appropriateness of their application/s. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper outlines Binomial and Poisson distributions which are both used to measure the occurrence of a number of random events within a certain period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The calculation of odds ratios and relative risks may be required as part of a data analysis exercise. This paper explains how to set up these calculations in Microsoft Excel from a two by two contingency table. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The calculation of various test characteristics may be required as part of a data analysis exercise. This paper explains how to set up these calculations in Microsoft Excel in order to obtain sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, diagnostic accuracy and prevalence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction : In pursuit of sustainability goals, many cities are introducing measures to increase the usage of bicycles as a means of transportation. City planners aim to ensure that this increase does not lead to an increase in crashes, but must make corresponding infrastructure decisions with limited information. Sufficient data to perform a statistical analysis of location-specific crash frequencies is rarely available. For example, only approximately 10% of all bicycle crashes are reported to the police (Shinar et al., 2018). Therefore, urban planners often rely on expert opinion, which may lead to suboptimal prioritization and realization of infrastructure improvements. Method: This paper demonstrates how surveys on bicycle crashes can be used to aid urban planners in making infrastructure decisions. In addition to confirming the location and characteristics of reported crashes, surveys can uncover characteristics of crashes that are not reported to the police, situations in which a crash almost occurred, and locations perceived by cyclists to be dangerous. Surveys also allow urban planners to investigate non-infrastructure related causes of crashes, such as the frequency with which individual cyclists use other modes of transportation. Practical Applications: The usefulness of surveys in the determination of urban cycling safety is demonstrated in this paper through analysis of survey results from the city of Zurich in 2018. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper addresses the pressing concern of traffic safety by focusing on the optimization of vehicle cruise control systems. While traditional control techniques have been widely employed, their design procedures can be time-consuming and suboptimal. To overcome these limitations, metaheuristic algorithms have been introduced as promising solutions for complex optimization problems. In this study, an improved Runge Kutta optimizer (IRUN) is developed and applied to enhance the control performance of a real PID plus second-order derivative (RPIDD2) controller for vehicle cruise control systems. The IRUN optimizer incorporates advanced strategies such as quadratic interpolation, Laplacian segment mutation, Levy flight, and information-sharing-based local search mechanisms. By integrating these strategies, the IRUN algorithm demonstrates enhanced optimization capabilities, making it well-suited for tuning the controller. The proposed approach utilizes a master–slave system, where the ideal reference model sets the desired response and the RPIDD2 controller adjusts its parameters accordingly. The integral of the square error is employed as the objective function to evaluate the control system's performance. Statistical analyses, convergence analyses, and stability evaluations and robustness analysis are performed to demonstrate the effectiveness of the IRUN-based RPIDD2 controller. Comparative studies are conducted against established approaches using PID, fractional-order PID (FOPID), and RPIDD2 controllers, showcasing the superiority and effectiveness of the proposed approach. Overall, this paper presents a comprehensive study on enhancing the time-domain performance and stability of vehicle cruise control systems, providing significant improvements in control accuracy and efficiency. The subsequent sections delve into the proposed approach, experimental setup, and obtained results, further emphasizing the significance and potential impact of this research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• In this study, we conducted a statistical analysis of foF2 and TEC data under both ionospheric quiet and disturbed conditions, employing the ionospheric slab thickness model. • The utilization of Kriging with external drift (KED) in generating maps has enhanced their realism. • The inclusion of foF2 data from the map's periphery has resulted in the overall stabilization of the map. • Based on our findings, we can conclude that the correlation distance between ionospheric characteristics should not exceed the range of 120–300 km. The importance of this study lies in its contribution to the field of ionospheric science, particularly in the monitoring and prediction of ionospheric parameters. This study focuses on comparing two techniques for spatio-temporal kriging of critical ionospheric parameters, namely the F2 layer critical frequency (foF2) and Total Electron Content (TEC), under both quiet and disturbed ionospheric conditions. The first technique, Ordinary Kriging (OK), relies solely on foF2 data, while the second technique, Kriging with External Drift (KED), incorporates the dynamic relationship between foF2 and TEC data to improve the interpolation process. This study demonstrates how KED, which utilizes dynamic secondary information, offers advantages over OK. By simultaneously monitoring the ionosphere from a single ionosonde station and collecting data from visible GPS satellites, KED enhances the accuracy of spatial structural analysis, enabling more precise estimations of ionospheric characteristics across interpolation grid nodes. The research highlights that the non-uniform distribution of ionosonde stations, especially in regions with limited foF2 data, can benefit from KED's incorporation of TEC data. Additionally, the study reveals the potential for improving TEC maps by assimilating foF2 data located at the periphery of the observation area. Furthermore, the paper discusses the determination of semivariogram structures for both foF2 and TEC data, emphasizing the spatial correlations between data points. These findings contribute to a better understanding of ionospheric behavior and the potential for enhanced ionospheric modeling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper analyses the effects that the Itaipú Hydropower Plant has had in the development of capabilities and the evolution of energy security aspects in Paraguay and Brazil. To do this, it applies a theoretical framework that integrates elements from the energy security literature with the concept of capabilities. Applying the framework sheds light on the evolution of the financial, organisational, and technical capabilities that developed in connection with the building and operation of the dam and its impact on energy security in both countries. The research design of the study is an in-depth case study drawing on qualitative data including original interviews collected between 2020 and 2021 as well as on an extensive review of official documents and statistical data. The paper finds that the dam had a deep and lasting impact in the evolution of the electricity sector in both Paraguay and Brazil with positive as well as negative impacts in energy security across all the analysed dimensions. The paper presents relevant case specific conclusions as well as general implications of the findings that emerge and can potentially inform similar situations in other settings where large electricity endowments are shared by two or more countries, irrespective of the technology. • Integrates elements of energy security and technical, organisational, and financial capabilities • Presents original research on the impacts of the Itaipú hydropower plant • Contrasts impacts of transboundary hydropower in Paraguay and Brazil • Draws on original qualitative and quantitative data collected in three countries [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]