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RESEARCH ARTICLE
Contents Vol 45(8)

Advances in methodology for random regression analyses

K. Meyer
+ Author Affiliations
- Author Affiliations

Animal Genetics and Breeding Unit (a joint venture between NSW Department of Primary Industries and the University of New England), University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia. Email: kmeyer@didgeridoo.une.edu.au

Australian Journal of Experimental Agriculture 45(8) 847-858 https://doi.org/10.1071/EA05040
Submitted: 14 February 2005  Accepted: 29 April 2005   Published: 26 August 2005

Abstract

Random regression analyses have become standard methodology for the analysis of traits with repeated records that are thought of as representing points on a trajectory. Modelling curves as a regression on functions of a continuous covariable, such as time, for each individual, random regression models are readily implemented in standard, linear mixed model analyses. Early applications have made extensive use of regressions on orthogonal polynomials. Recently, spline functions have been considered as an alternative. The use of a particular type of spline function, the so-called B-splines, as basis functions for random regression analyses is outlined, emphasising the local influence of individual observations and low degree of polynomials employed. While such analyses are likely to involve more regression coefficients than polynomial models, it is demonstrated that reduced rank estimation via the leading principal components is feasible and likely to yield more parsimonious models and more stable estimates than full rank analyses. The combined application of B-spline basis function and reduced rank estimation is illustrated for a small set of data for beef cattle.

Additional keywords: B-spline functions, reduced rank estimation, principal components.


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