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[Phys-l] Statistical Inadequacy of American Scientists



I was taken aback to hear an account of a medical research scientist from
Sheffield University kicking up dust about a research publishing method
which it appears is popular in American practice. (NPR today Feb 26)

The raw data on comparative drug trials is routinely forwarded to
the MAKER, whose statisticians provide digested data to the
University based researcher(s) in summary form only,
under whose names and affiliations the work is intended to be published.

The fellow in question was disturbed to find (at length, after
kicking and screaming for the raw data) that in the case of interest
to him, 40% of the raw data had been discarded.

Perhaps a wakeup call for American science students to get
some usable stats background?

Duh!


Brian Whatcott Altus OK Eureka!