BAYSIG: a platform for Bayesian analysis of large and complex datasets
Lead Research Organisation:
University of Leicester
Department Name: Biology
Abstract
Current approaches to data analysis and statistics can be inflexible and wasteful of information. Bayesian statistics provide an alternative framework that views data through models of the underlying random, physical and biological elements. Measurements, hypothesis tests and decisions take into account all the available information and are provably optimal, but these powerful techniques remain largely inaccessible. In our BBSRC research we combined Bayesian methods with specialist programming languages to build a unique platform (BAYSIG) for data management and analysis. We will extend this platform and prove that it can provide important new insights into large and complex datasets, both biological and financial. We will build a Bayesian model of heart beat recordings and show that we can characterise real heart beat signals with greater precision than is currently possible. These analyses and other developments of BAYSIG will be commercialised through a user-friendly web interface.
Publications
Abu Hassan A
(2016)
Bayesian inference in waveform signals based on BAYSIG
Abu Hassan,A
(2015)
Modelling biological signals with BAYSIG
Calas-List D
(2014)
Motor inhibition affects the speed but not accuracy of aimed limb movements in an insect.
in The Journal of neuroscience : the official journal of the Society for Neuroscience
Sutovski P
(2015)
Bayesian modelling of locust behaviour using BAYSIG
| Description | We have developed statistical techniques and a user interface that can be used across a wide range of fields to analyse complex data. The methods were implemented in a publicly accessible web site, and formed the basis for a University Spinout company Openbrain that ran for several years before being wound up in 2018. The URL provided in this record no longer works as the spinout company has been wound up. |
| Exploitation Route | Our mathematical software can be used to analyse complex data in a wide range of fields including bioscience, retail, medicine and finance. The training and experience provided by the grant, including the experience of setting up a spinout company, enabled the Researcher to move on to other startup commercial data analytics companies. |
| Sectors | Digital/Communication/Information Technologies (including Software),Education,Energy,Financial Services, and Management Consultancy,Healthcare,Pharmaceuticals and Medical Biotechnology,Retail |
| URL | http://openbrain.co.uk/ |
| Description | The work carried out on this grant contributed to the establishment of a commercial entity, Openbrain Ltd (http://openbrain.co.uk/), Director Dr Tom Nielsen, Scientific Advisor Dr Tom Matheson). Openbrain Ltd. was established in 2012 to commercialise the Bayesian statistical approach (Bayeshive) developed with BBSRC funding. The company was deregistered in April 2017 to allow the Director to focus on other data analytics interests. |
| First Year Of Impact | 2014 |
| Sector | Digital/Communication/Information Technologies (including Software),Healthcare |
| Impact Types | Economic |
| Description | NC3Rs Expert Working Group on Impact |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Policy Influence Type | Membership of a guideline committee |
| Impact | National level funding body guidance on impact generation in the area of improved animal welfare. |
| Description | Openbrain |
| Organisation | OpenBrain |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Private |
| PI Contribution | Joint research into commercial development of research analytics. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Joint research into commercial development of research analytics. |
| Impact | BBSRC Follow on Fund Grant supports the partnership. Biology / mathematics / statistics. |
| Start Year | 2012 |
| Title | Bayshive Bayesian Inference software |
| Description | BayesHive is a web application for data analysis using powerful Bayesian statistical methods. |
| Type Of Technology | Webtool/Application |
| Year Produced | 2014 |
| Impact | The researcher who developed this software and the associated spin-out company Openbrain Ltd. has built on his training and experience to develop a successful career in international data analytics. |
| URL | https://bayeshive.com/ |
| Company Name | Openbrain Ltd |
| Description | Analytics development. |
| Year Established | 2012 |
| Impact | Commercially sensitive information. |
| Website | http://openbrain.co.uk/ |
| Description | Brain Awareness Day Events |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Tom Matheson and members of the research group carried out live hands-on demonstrations of insect electrophysiology, exhibited live locusts, and displayed posters related to our research. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2014,2016,2017 |