Low statistical power undermines the purpose of scientific research; it reduces the chance of detecting a true effect. Perhaps less intuitively, low power also reduces the likelihood that a ...

Your monthly Social Security check is calculated using four easy-to-understand variables. Though every Social Security claiming age has its unique advantages and drawbacks, 62, 66, and 70 are likely ...

Safety evaluation studies are essential for regulatory approval before a new pharmaceutical can enter clinical phases. Conducted in GLP (Good Laboratory Practice)-certified facilities, these studies ...

What archaeological discoveries are considered newsworthy by U.S. media outlets and audiences? A new analysis of "pop-science" reporting reveals topical and regional disparities, including an apparent ...

Statistical significance is a critical concept in data analysis and research. In essence, it’s a measure that allows researchers to assess whether the results of an experiment or study are due to ...

A version of this essay first appeared in Jess Steier’s newsletter, “Unbiased Science.” Fluoride is having a rough day in the court of public opinion. The National Toxicology Program (NTP), part of ...

The Statistical & Data Sciences (SDS) Program links faculty and students from across the college interested in learning things from data. At Smith, students learn statistics by doing—class time ...

A wide range of small studies have lately been suggesting that children who own or interact with a pet have better physical and psychological health. But the largest study of its kind to date now ...

Public health officials here and throughout most of the world agree that mask wearing has some value in reducing the rate at which COVID-19 spreads. As a result, numerous states and localities, ...