Biostatistics and Information Management Branch
The Biostatistics and Information Management Branch provides statistical expertise for the division's investigations into disease outbreaks, research studies, and surveillance data analyses. The branch is responsible for adapting existing analytical methodology and developing new techniques for statistical applications in the division. The branch works with epidemiologists and laboratory scientists on study design, sampling, bioassay data analysis, statistical modeling, sampling strategies, and case/control methodology.
The branch has designed and installed software for laboratory reporting and specimen tracking. The new version of these systems, LITS PLUS for Windows , is a data management system that has combined all the features of the LITS (Laboratory Information Management System) and PHLIS (Public Health Information System) systems plus Internet access and browser-based technology. This client-server system provides seamless integration of laboratory and epidemiologic data. LITS PLUS includes outbreak detection, rapid surveillance reporting, and laboratory data management.
The branch has also created an integrated series of programs designed to analyze bioassay data in the context of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). The program, ELISA for Windows , offers many features including template design for 96-well ELISA plates, the ability to model standard or characteristic curves with a spline fit or a four parameter logistic-log function, graphing features to visually inspect how well the characteristic curve fits the standards data, and serum antibody estimation routines to interpolate antibody concentrations from standard curves. Standard curve parameters for the logistic-log function are estimated using iteratively reweighted least squares with two fitting procedures: unweighted and weighted employing robust weights calculated for each data point.
The branch also coordinates dissemination of information to public health officials and researchers, offers training in statistical methods, and maintains systems for collecting and processing the surveillance data gathered by the division's other branches. |
