We propose a simple and effective variational inference algorithm based on stochastic optimisation that can be widely applied for Bayesian non-conjugate inference in continuous parameter spaces. This algorithm is based on stochastic approximation and allows for efficient use of gradient information from the model joint density. We demonstrate these properties using illustrative examples as well...

Classification and regression trees are becoming increasingly popular for partitioning data and identifying local structure in small and large datasets. Classification trees include those models in which the dependent variable (the predicted variable) is categorical. Regression trees include those in which it is continuous. This paper discusses pitfalls in the use of these methods and highlight...

We consider the problem of estimating quantile regression coefficients in errors-in-variables models. When the error variables for both the response and the manifest variables have a joint distribution that is spherically symmetric but is otherwise unknown, the regression quantile estimates based on orthogonal residuals are shown to be consistent and asymptotically normal. We also extend the wo...

Nonasymptotic risk bounds are provided for maximum likelihood-type isotonic estimators of an unknown nondecreasing regression function, with general average loss at design points. These bounds are optimal up to scale constants, and they imply uniform n−1/3-consistency of the p risk for unknown regression functions of uniformly bounded variation, under mild assumptions on the joint probability d...

We consider the joint sparse estimation of regression coefficients and covariance matrix for covariates in a high-dimensional model, where predictors are both relevant to response variable interest functionally related one another via Gaussian directed acyclic graph (DAG) model. DAG models introduce sparsity Cholesky factor inverse matrix, pattern turn corresponds specific conditional independe...

The purpose of our study was to examine 1st metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint motion and flexibility and plantar loads in individuals with high, normal and low arch foot structures. Asymptomatic individuals (n=61), with high, normal and low arches participated in this study. Foot structure was quantified using malleolar valgus index (MVI) and arch height index (AHI). First MTP joint flexibility w...

abstract introduction: in this study the role of pge2 as an important inflammatory mediator in indomethacine and theophylline effects on joint diameter and vascular response of chronically inflamed rat knee joint to saphenous nerve stimulation was investigated. methods: inflammation was induced by intraarticular injection of 0.2 ml freund,s complete adjuvant (fca) and 3, 7, 14, 21 days post inj...