The Volatility of Data Space: Topology Oriented Sensitivity Analysis

PLoS One. 2015 Sep 14;10(9):e0137591. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0137591. eCollection 2015.

Abstract

Despite the difference among specific methods, existing Sensitivity Analysis (SA) technologies are all value-based, that is, the uncertainties in the model input and output are quantified as changes of values. This paradigm provides only limited insight into the nature of models and the modeled systems. In addition to the value of data, a potentially richer information about the model lies in the topological difference between pre-model data space and post-model data space. This paper introduces an innovative SA method called Topology Oriented Sensitivity Analysis, which defines sensitivity as the volatility of data space. It extends SA into a deeper level that lies in the topology of data.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Algorithms
  • Computer Simulation
  • Data Interpretation, Statistical*
  • Models, Theoretical
  • Spatial Analysis*

Grants and funding

This study is supported by the National Science Foundation under Grant No. 1416730. Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation.