Sensitivity Analysis in Earth Observation Modeling highlights the state-of-the-art in ongoing research investigations and new applications of sensitivity analysis in earth observation modeling. In this framework, original works concerned with the development or exploitation of diverse methods applied to different types of earth observation data or earth observation-based modeling approaches are included. An overview of sensitivity analysis methods and principles is provided first, followed by examples of applications and case studies of different sensitivity/uncertainty analysis implementation methods, covering the full spectrum of sensitivity analysis techniques, including operational products. Finally, the book outlines challenges and future prospects for implementation in earth observation modeling. Information provided in this book is of practical value to readers looking to understand the principles of sensitivity analysis in earth observation modeling, the level of scientific maturity in the field, and where the main limitations or challenges are in terms of improving our ability to implement such approaches in a wide range of applications. Readers will also be informed on the implementation of sensitivity/uncertainty analysis on operational products available at present, on global and continental scales. All of this information is vital in the selection process of the most appropriate sensitivity analysis method to implement. - Outlines challenges and future prospects of sensitivity analysis implementation in earth observation modeling - Provides readers with a roadmap for directing future efforts - Includes case studies with applications from different regions around the globe, helping readers to explore strengths and weaknesses of the different methods in earth observation modeling - Presents a step-by-step guide, providing the principles of each method followed by the application of variants, making the reference easy to use and follow

Sensitivity analysis is used to ascertain how a given model output depends upon the input parameters. This is an important method for checking the quality of a given model, as well as a powerful tool for checking the robustness and reliability of its analysis. The topic is acknowledged as essential for good modelling practice, and is an implicit part of any modelling field. · Offers an accessible introduction to sensitivity analysis · Covers all the latest research · Illustrates concepts with numerous examples, applications and case studies · Includes contributions form the leading researchers active in developing strategies for sensitivity analysis The principles of sensitivity analysis area carefully described, and suitable methods for approaching many types of problems are given. The book introduces the modeller to the entire causal assessment chain, from data to predictions, whilst explaining the impact of source uncertainties and framing assumptions. A 'hitch-hiker's guide' is included to allow the more experienced reader to readily access specific applications. Modellers from a wide range of disciplines, including biostatistics, economics, environmental impact assessment, chemistry and engineering will benefit greatly form the numerous examples and applications.

Sensitivity analysis should be considered a pre-requisite for statistical model building in any scientific discipline where modelling takes place. For a non-expert, choosing the method of analysis for their model is complex, and depends on a number of factors. This book guides the non-expert through their problem in order to enable them to choose and apply the most appropriate method. It offers a review of the state-of-the-art in sensitivity analysis, and is suitable for a wide range of practitioners. It is focussed on the use of SIMLAB – a widely distributed freely-available sensitivity analysis software package developed by the authors – for solving problems in sensitivity analysis of statistical models. Other key features: Provides an accessible overview of the current most widely used methods for sensitivity analysis. Opens with a detailed worked example to explain the motivation behind the book. Includes a range of examples to help illustrate the concepts discussed. Focuses on implementation of the methods in the software SIMLAB - a freely-available sensitivity analysis software package developed by the authors. Contains a large number of references to sources for further reading. Authored by the leading authorities on sensitivity analysis.

This open access book shows how to use sensitivity analysis in demography. It presents new methods for individuals, cohorts, and populations, with applications to humans, other animals, and plants. The analyses are based on matrix formulations of age-classified, stage-classified, and multistate population models. Methods are presented for linear and nonlinear, deterministic and stochastic, and time-invariant and time-varying cases. Readers will discover results on the sensitivity of statistics of longevity, life disparity, occupancy times, the net reproductive rate, and statistics of Markov chain models in demography. They will also see applications of sensitivity analysis to population growth rates, stable population structures, reproductive value, equilibria under immigration and nonlinearity, and population cycles. Individual stochasticity is a theme throughout, with a focus that goes beyond expected values to include variances in demographic outcomes. The calculations are easily and accurately implemented in matrix-oriented programming languages such as Matlab or R. Sensitivity analysis will help readers create models to predict the effect of future changes, to evaluate policy effects, and to identify possible evolutionary responses to the environment. Complete with many examples of the application, the book will be of interest to researchers and graduate students in human demography and population biology. The material will also appeal to those in mathematical biology and applied mathematics.

Extensive numerical methods for computing design sensitivity are included in the text for practical application and software development. The numerical method allows integration of CAD-FEA-DSA software tools, so that design optimization can be carried out using CAD geometric models instead of FEA models. This capability allows integration of CAD-CAE-CAM so that optimized designs can be manufactured effectively.

The concepts of estimands, analyses (estimators), and sensitivity are interrelated. Therefore, great need exists for an integrated approach to these topics. This book acts as a practical guide to developing and implementing statistical analysis plans by explaining fundamental concepts using accessible language, providing technical details, real-world examples, and SAS and R code to implement analyses. The updated ICH guideline raises new analytic and cross-functional challenges for statisticians. Gaps between different communities have come to surface, such as between causal inference and clinical trialists, as well as among clinicians, statisticians, and regulators when it comes to communicating decision-making objectives, assumptions, and interpretations of evidence. This book lays out a path toward bridging some of these gaps. It offers  A common language and unifying framework along with the technical details and practical guidance to help statisticians meet the challenges  A thorough treatment of intercurrent events (ICEs), i.e., postrandomization events that confound interpretation of outcomes and five strategies for ICEs in ICH E9 (R1)  Details on how estimands, integrated into a principled study development process, lay a foundation for coherent specification of trial design, conduct, and analysis needed to overcome the issues caused by ICEs:  A perspective on the role of the intention-to-treat principle  Examples and case studies from various areas  Example code in SAS and R  A connection with causal inference  Implications and methods for analysis of longitudinal trials with missing data Together, the authors have offered the readers their ample expertise in clinical trial design and analysis, from an industrial and academic perspective.

This book presents a range of investment appraisal methods and models to help readers make good investment decisions. Each approach is thoroughly described, evaluated, and illustrated using examples, with its assumptions and limitations analyzed in terms of their implications for investment decision-making practice. Getting investment decisions right is crucial but due to a complex and dynamic business environment this remains a challenging management task.