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We regularly release blogs written by statisticians, researchers, scientists and industry leaders. From how-to guides to the application of data analytics and opinion pieces, you will find a wealth of content below

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Blogs | VSN International

How to fit MET models with complex GxE variance structures for better outcomes

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Mastering Multi-Environment Trials (MET) Analysis

Still not optimising your breeding program with genomic prediction? 

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10 Ways Good Experimental Design Can Save You Money and Time

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Overcoming the Complexity of Modelling Spatial Variation 

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Overcoming the Complexity of Modelling Spatial Variation

Why Ignoring Spatial Trends in Field Trial Analyses Could Be Costing You? 

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Competitive Genetics: Exploring the impact of direct and indirect genetic effects in tree breeding

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A Journey with Genstat: A Conversation with Mewa S. Dhanoa 

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Parental versus Animal Model: What is the difference and how do we choose? 

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Data, data everywhere…but is it helping your analytics?

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The threat of p-value hacking to the integrity of plant and animal breeding 

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A Snippet for Error Handling in R: An Example with ASReml-R

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A preview of the New Edition of “Experimental Design and Analysis for Tree Improvement” 

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Genetic correlations, what are they, and why do we need them? 

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Are you linked or transformed? Data transformation vs links in Generalized Linear Models.

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Are you linked or transformed? Data transformation vs links in Generalized Linear Models

Experimental Design: What are Balance, Efficiency and Independence?

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Statistical inference is the process of drawing some conclusions about a population based on the sample data at hand.

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Likelihood-based statistical inference for variance components in linear mixed models

An important aim when fitting linear mixed models (LMM) is the use of random effect estimates. In some analyses, such as genetic evaluations, the main objective of the analysis is to obtain these estimates.

Calculating accuracy and reliability of random effect estimates with ASReml-R

Data analysis is essential for addressing the challenges of food production and we at VSNi envision a future where these challenges are eradicated through the power of extracting meaningful insights from data.

VSNi's vision: A world without hunger, powered by data-driven breeding 

Genstat Discovery Edition was a free version of Genstat that was available for non-commercial users in developing countries, but it is no longer available. 

Genstat Discovery Edition: The path forward 

Why put your trust in ASReml? In this blog we explain why it is the go-to tool for scientists and researchers

ASReml: The powerhouse statistical software tool where speed meets accuracy 

Some statistical practitioners routinely fit GLMMs using the HGLM framework. In this blog we discuss why. 

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Why fit a GLMM as an HGLM?

The programme is meticulously designed to equip you with the expertise to use ASReml-R version 4.2 for the analysis of genetic data. ASReml-R is a statistical software (and library in R) that fits linear mixed models using REML methodology and calculates BLUP values. 

ASReml-R live virtual training: Navigating genetic analysis with confidence

Latin Squares are a very well-known trial design, second only to Randomized Blocks. They are formed from a square layout of plots, with the same number of replicates as there are treatments. 

A little bit of Latin: Latin squares and Latinized designs

In an era of big data, the significance of visualisation as a complement to robust experimental design and accurate statistical analysis is growing exponentially. The true value of visualisation becomes apparent when we observe its impact throughout the various stages of the data capture and analysis lifecycle. 

From data to insights: improving plant breeding outcomes with JHI’s cutting-edge data visualisation tools 

For simple linear regression with groups, why do we first allow for different intercepts and then for different slopes?

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Regression with groups: 
Testing for group-specific intercepts and slopes

Unlock the potential of agricultural advancement with powerful statistical tools like Genstat and ASReml. Optimize experiments with CycDesigN for data-driven success.

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Maximizing field trial data for agricultural advancements 

Learn how to efficiently identify various taxa in fields like medicine, agriculture, and hobbies. Explore the concept of fixed results and exact identification, where specific attributes reliably define taxa.

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Efficient identification methods: Constructing irredundant test sets for confident taxa identification

Discover ASReml-R 4.2 – the ultimate tool for scientists and statisticians. Unlock powerful, faster breeding analyses using mixed models and other advanced features.

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ASReml-R version 4.2: More power and speed for breeding analyses

Master mixed models in Python using ASReml-R: Step-by-step guide to fit complex linear mixed models. Enhance your data analysis skills with ASReml-R. Explore Python-R integration for robust results

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Fitting mixed models in Python with ASReml-R

Enhance experiment design with post-hoc blocking techniques. Learn about spatial analysis, superimposing blocks, statistical controversies, and benefits of post-hoc blocking. Optimize field trial analyses and recover poorly designed experiments

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Improving the design of your experiments part 2: post-hoc blocking

Unlock the power of blocking in experiment design! Learn how a-priori blocking techniques enhance accuracy and control in breeding trials. Dive into IBDs and RCDs. Expert insights from Dr. Salvador Gezan.

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Improving the design of your experiments 
part 1: a-priori blocking

Explore the potential of precision breeding in animal and aquaculture industries. Discover how data-driven strategies are shaping genetic improvement and addressing global challenges.

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Elevating animal breeding and aquaculture: embracing data-driven precision to meet global challenges

Discover the true essence of p-values in statistics. Uncover their meaning, interpretation, and role in scientific analysis. Essential insights for researchers.

Demystifying the p-value: Understanding its meaning and application

The 23rd edition of Genstat includes many more useful extensions and new features to help you perform your desired statistical task. 

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Genstat 23 now available

Enhance your multi-environmental trials with expert advice on managing datasets. 

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Managing datasets for multi-environmental trials: best practices 

Dive into the world of genetics with insights on heritability in plant and animal breeding. Understand its role, implications, and how it shapes selection strategies

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Unravelling nature's blueprint: Understanding Heritability and genetic influence in plant and animal breeding

Enjoy a lively debate on fixed vs. random blocks in experimental design that discusses precision, bias, spatial analysis, and more.

The great debate: Fixed vs. random blocks in experimental design

Discover how linear models evolve to accommodate non-Normal data and random effects. Explore the progression from Linear Models to Generalized Linear Mixed Models and Hierarchical Generalized Linear Models.

Extending linear models to accommodate non-Normal data and random effects: 
LM → GLM → GLMM → HGLM

Discover how VSN International revolutionizes research in the life sciences with cutting-edge statistical software. Enhance your efficiency, accuracy, and outcomes with powerful tools. 

VSNi: Empowering researchers with innovative tools

Unlocking biological insights: Harness the power of exponential curves for data analysis. Discover why exponential models trump polynomials!

The exponential function: a non-linear regression that may be useful to biologists - part 2

Meeting Global Challenges with Precision Breeding: A Data-Driven Approach

Learn about non-linear regression with a focus on the exponential function's significance for biologists. Explore how this model offers unique interpretative insights. 

The exponential function: a non-linear regression that may be useful to biologists - part 1

Discover the essence of Bayesian methods in statistics. Explore how they compare to classical statistics, their advantages, complexities, and practical implications. 

Bayesian analysis: What is it?

Explore the power of envirotyping in plant breeding. Learn how environmental factors impact traits, optimize trials, and enhance breeding program outcomes. 

Is envirotyping beneficial to my breeding program? 

Beware the three Vs of data - Volume, Variety and Velocity


Genstat is a comprehensive statistical software package that is ideal for use in crop and plant breeding. In this blog, we will discuss some of the key features of Genstat that make it a very valuable tool for plant breeders.

Genstat: The ideal tool for plant breeding trial analysis 

Discover the power of bivariate analysis using confidence and prediction ellipses. Explore their interpretation and applications in 2-D data analysis. 

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Moving from confidence in 1-D to 2-D

Discover the power of PCA Analysis. Uncover hidden patterns in multivariate data with PCA techniques. 

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PCA: Hunting for patterns and structure in my data

Enhance your statistical prowess! Learn how to gauge ANOVA assumptions using residual diagnostic plots. Discover insights for variance homogeneity and Normality.

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Checking those all-important ANOVA residual diagnostic plots

Learn the intricacies of back-transforming standard errors for model outcomes and uncover the power of the Delta method. Discover how to improve interpretability and communicate uncertainty effectively.

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Back-transforming standard errors using the Delta method.

Understand the power of separation plots in assessing model fit for categorical outcomes. Learn how these graphical tools help interpret predictive ability and distinguish successes from failures.

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Visualizing model fit with separation plots: A comprehensive guide

Explore the effectiveness and risks of unreplicated trials in scientific experiments. Understand their potential benefits while considering their statistical drawbacks.

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Unreplicated trials: Can they provide the accuracy we need? Part 2

Explore the role and nuances of unreplicated trials in scientific experiments. Learn how to optimize insights despite limited replication.

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Unreplicated trials: What can they really do? Part 1

VSNi has completed the recertification process for ISO 9001 certification

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VSNi: Achieving ISO 9001 recertification and maintaining quality standards

Dive into the world of equivalence, non-inferiority, and non-superiority tests in statistics. Learn their significance and applications in scientific decision-making.

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Neither better nor worse? Equivalence, non-inferiority and non-superiority tests

In scientific papers and reports, experimental designs are often described as “resolvable” or “non-resolvable”. But what does this mean and why does this matter? 

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Resolvable or non-resolvable design:
What does it mean and why does it matter?


Statistical humour, because laughter is the best medicine!

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Christmas crackers: VSNi's favourite statistical jokes

Explore the implications of utilizing low-density SNP panels in genomic prediction. Understand their limitations and long-term impact on breeding strategies in this insightful blog.

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The future of genomic prediction using low-density SNP panels

Leading statistical software provider VSN International has appointed Tim Bean as its new Chief Executive. 

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VSN International announces new CEO 

Learn how Genome Wide Association Studies (GWAS) revolutionize breeding through genetic markers. Explore models, effects, software, and more for impactful insights.

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What is a Genome Wide Association Study (GWAS)?

Unlock the power of spatial data analysis with correlation structure modeling. Explore four key models - Simple, Autoregressive, Power, and General - to accurately measure correlations in spatial datasets.

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Welcome to VSNi Blogs

We regularly release blogs written by statisticians, researchers, scientists and industry leaders. From how-to guides to the application of data analytics and opinion pieces, you will find a wealth of content below

Home

Blogs

Most Recent

READ MORE

Mastering Multi-Environment Trials (MET) Analysis

READ MORE

Still not optimising your breeding program with genomic prediction?

READ MORE

10 Ways Good Experimental Design Can Save You Money and Time

READ MORE

Overcoming the Complexity of Modelling Spatial Variation

READ MORE

Why Ignoring Spatial Trends in Field Trial Analyses Could Be Costing You?

READ MORE

Competitive Genetics: Exploring the impact of direct and indirect genetic effects in tree breeding

READ MORE

A Journey with Genstat: A Conversation with Mewa S. Dhanoa

Popular

Decoding the p-value: what statisticians need to know

04 May 2021

Pearson Correlation vs Simple Linear Regression

06 July 2021

Mastering mixed models for repeated measures and longitudinal data

01 March 2021