Multidimensional Signals and Analytic Flexibility: Estimating Degrees of Freedom in Human-Speech Analyses

Recent empirical studies have highlighted the large degree of analytic flexibility in data analysis that can lead to substantially different conclusions based on the same data set. Thus, researchers have expressed their concerns that these researcher degrees of freedom might facilitate bias and can lead to claims that do not stand the test of time. Even greater flexibility is to be expected in fields in which the primary data lend themselves to a variety of possible operationalizations. The multidimensional, temporally extended nature of speech constitutes an ideal testing ground for assessing the variability in analytic approaches, which derives not only from aspects of statistical modeling but also from decisions regarding the quantification of the measured behavior. In this study, we gave the same speech-production data set to 46 teams of researchers and asked them to answer the same research question, resulting in substantial variability in reported effect sizes and their interpretation. Using Bayesian meta-analytic tools, we further found little to no evidence that the observed variability can be explained by analysts’ prior beliefs, expertise, or the perceived quality of their analyses. In light of this idiosyncratic variability, we recommend that researchers more transparently share details of their analysis, strengthen the link between theoretical construct and quantitative system, and calibrate their (un)certainty in their conclusions

Erratum to: 36th International Symposium on Intensive Care and Emergency Medicine

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1186/s13054-016-1208-6.]

Multidimensional signals and analytic flexibility: Estimating degrees of freedom in human speech analyses

Recent empirical studies have highlighted the large degree of analytic flexibility in data analysis which can lead to substantially different conclusions based on the same data set. Thus, researchers have expressed their concerns that these researcher degrees of freedom might facilitate bias and can lead to claims that do not stand the test of time. Even greater flexibility is to be expected in fields in which the primary data lend themselves to a variety of possible operationalizations. The multidimensional, temporally extended nature of speech constitutes an ideal testing ground for assessing the variability in analytic approaches, which derives not only from aspects of statistical modeling, but also from decisions regarding the quantification of the measured behavior. In the present study, we gave the same speech production data set to 46 teams of researchers and asked them to answer the same research question, resulting insubstantial variability in reported effect sizes and their interpretation. Using Bayesian meta-analytic tools, we further find little to no evidence that the observed variability can be explained by analysts’ prior beliefs, expertise or the perceived quality of their analyses. In light of this idiosyncratic variability, we recommend that researchers more transparently share details of their analysis, strengthen the link between theoretical construct and quantitative system and calibrate their (un)certainty in their conclusions

Physiotherapy and Neurology: Towards Research-based Practice

This paper explores the current practices of physiotherapists working in neurology and argues that a techniques versus science imbalance makes it necessary to develop a scientific knowledge base within physiotherapy practice. Scepticism, determinism and empiricism are identified as three major elements underpinning a scientific approach. Each element is defined, elaborated upon and pragmatic recommendations offered in order to facilitate the implementation of these elements in physiotherapy practice.sch_phy81pub1021pub

Lothian stroke outcome score a validity and reliability study

This paper examines the lothian stroke outcome score

Measurement of rising to stand, standing and gait using a new quantified functional outcome measure

This paper aims to look at the measurement of rising to stand, standing and gait using a new quantified functional outcome measure

Aspectos da mensuracao do movimento functional humano ( Measurement issues in functional human movement)

This chapter measures the functions of human movement

Preventive practices of dentists in Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Objectives: To describe the preventive dental practices of general dentists in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Methods: Dentists from 100 randomly selected dental clinics in Phnom Penh were interviewed by one of 3 trained interviewers. Open and closed questions included: background information, knowledge of prevention, resources for prevention, and preventive practices. Data presented are from the results of the first 30 participants. Results: 66.7% of dentists believed prevention was very important. 87% gave oral health education at least several times a week. 42.9% never used F varnish and 48.3% never used resin sealants. When shown a picture of a white spot lesion, 30% said they would provide no treatment, 6.7% would apply fluoride, and 46.7% would restore. 53.3% believed that caries in enamel is reversible. 89.7% said preschoolers should use a F toothpaste, and 90% said this should be low F paste. 70% said women should take F tablets during pregnancy. 85.2% said that all patients should be recalled 6 monthly. 79.3% said that plaque was composed mainly of food particles. 31% were in favor of a sugar tax, and 83.3% in favor of water fluoridation. 68.9% agreed that selling of sugary foods and drinks at schools should not be permitted. 86.3% of dentists suggested having more education on prevention at dental conferences. Conclusions: Cambodian dentists have limited knowledge of dental prevention and the basic principles of cariology and provide only limited preventive interventions for their patients. This survey is the first important step in a campaign to improve preventive practices of Cambodian dentists; actions should be taken to orientate dentists towards implementing evidence-based prevention in their clinics

Measurement of sitting, sit to stand and descending stairs using a new quantified functional outcome measure to evaluate stroke

This paper aims to examine the measurement of sitting, sit to stand and descending stairs using a new quantified functional outcome measure to evaluate stroke