An algorithm for quantifying dependence in multivariate data sets

We describe an algorithm to quantify dependence in a multivariate data set. The algorithm is able to identify any linear and non-linear dependence in the data set by performing a hypothesis test for two variables being independent. As a result we obtain a reliable measure of dependence. In high energy physics understanding dependencies is especially important in multidimensional maximum likelihood analyses. We therefore describe the problem of a multidimensional maximum likelihood analysis applied on a multivariate data set with variables that are dependent on each other. We review common procedures used in high energy physics and show that general dependence is not the same as linear correlation and discuss their limitations in practical application. Finally we present the tool CAT, which is able to perform all reviewed methods in a fully automatic mode and creates an analysis report document with numeric results and visual review.Comment: 4 pages, 3 figure

Detained by Data: A Critical Analysis of the Virginia Pretrial Risk Assessment Instrument

This research is a critical analysis of criminal justice policy in Virginia, specifically, the use of the Virginia Pretrial Risk Assessment Instrument (VPRAI), a computer application designed to help judges make objective pretrial detention and release decisions. Although the VPRAI was originally intended as a tool to further criminal justice reform in Virginia, there has been very little independent inquiry into its use. My research gathers qualitative data through interviews with professional stakeholders and former defendants to address this gap in knowledge, and identify the benefits, consequences, and challenges associated with the VPRAI. I conclude that, at the present time, it is not effectively contributing to reform efforts, and I propose several policy modifications that could improve its use as a tool to eliminate cash bond, lower incarceration rates, and produce unbiased pretrial detention decisions