Epidemiologic interpretation of artificial neural networks

American Journal of Epidemiology
M S DuhJ Z Ayanian

Abstract

Multilayer neural networks have been faulted for functioning as "black boxes" and for failing to assess the relative importance of the input factors. The aim of this paper is to illustrate how neural networks can classify individuals. The authors investigated the role of weights in the formation of neural networks' decision surfaces and decision regions. The data used were from a case-control study. Two strong determinants of case status were used as input "neurons." Zero, three, and five hidden neurons were used to explore the effect of the number of hidden neurons on the decision surfaces and regions. Mapping of input and output spaces revealed that three hidden neurons were insufficient to fully discriminate cases from controls. Five hidden neurons may be optimal, but at the cost of possible over-fitting. The more complex neural networks were very effective at defining regions of uniform risk in the plane of the initial covariates, and at assigning risk levels. The authors speculate that neural networks will prove useful in epidemiologic problems that require pattern recognition or complicated classification techniques, and that they will be unfavorable in problems that involve distinct effects of distinguishable predictors.

Citations

Feb 25, 2005·American Journal of Pharmacogenomics : Genomics-related Research in Drug Development and Clinical Practice·Julian LittleMarta Gwinn
Aug 25, 2010·Computers in Biology and Medicine·G W DombiR K Severson
Jan 5, 2016·International Journal of Medical Informatics·Alexander M WalkerRobert F Reynolds
Jun 21, 2001·International Journal of Epidemiology·A BoulleP Weller
May 19, 2004·International Journal of Urology : Official Journal of the Japanese Urological Association·Chaiyasit MatchariyakulPanuwat Lertsithichai
Sep 12, 2019·American Journal of Epidemiology·Qifang BiJustin Lessler
Dec 19, 2020·SSM - Population Health·Anita RajJulian McAuley

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