Visualising statistical models using dynamic nomograms

PLoS One. 2019 Nov 15;14(11):e0225253. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0225253. eCollection 2019.

Abstract

Translational Statistics proposes to promote the use of Statistics within research and improve the communication of statistical findings in an accurate and accessible manner to diverse audiences. When statistical models become more complex, it becomes harder to evaluate the role of explanatory variables on the response. For example, the interpretation and communication of the effect of predictors in regression models where interactions or smoothing splines are included can be challenging. Informative graphical representations of statistical models play a critical translational role; static nomograms are one such useful tool to visualise statistical models. In this paper, we propose the use of dynamic nomogram as a translational tool which can accommodate models of increased complexity. In theory, all models appearing in the literature could be accompanied by the corresponding dynamic nomogram to translate models in an informative manner. The R package presented will facilitate this communication for a variety of linear and non-linear models.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Algorithms
  • Humans
  • Models, Statistical*
  • Nomograms*

Grants and funding

A. Jalali received funding through the Health Research Board (https://www.hrb.ie/funding/) via HRB Clinical Research Facility, Galway (http://www.nuigalway.ie/hrb_crfg/). The funders had no role in study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript.