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. 2024 Apr 27;25(1):168.
doi: 10.1186/s12859-024-05791-w.

Optimizing spatio-temporal correlation structures for modeling food security in Africa: a simulation-based investigation

Adusei Bofa  1 , Temesgen Zewotir  2
Affiliations

Optimizing spatio-temporal correlation structures for modeling food security in Africa: a simulation-based investigation

Adusei Bofa et al. BMC Bioinformatics. .

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of spatio- temporal correlation using four spatio-temporal models: Spatio-Temporal Poisson Linear Trend Model (SPLTM), Poisson Temporal Model (TMS), Spatio-Temporal Poisson Anova Model (SPAM), and Spatio-Temporal Poisson Separable Model (STSM) concerning food security and nutrition in Africa. Evaluating model goodness of fit using the Watanabe Akaike Information Criterion (WAIC) and assessing bias through root mean square error and mean absolute error values revealed a consistent monotonic pattern. SPLTM consistently demonstrates a propensity for overestimating food security, while TMS exhibits a diverse bias profile, shifting between overestimation and underestimation based on varying correlation settings. SPAM emerges as a beacon of reliability, showcasing minimal bias and WAIC across diverse scenarios, while STSM consistently underestimates food security, particularly in regions marked by low to moderate spatio-temporal correlation. SPAM consistently outperforms other models, making it a top choice for modeling food security and nutrition dynamics in Africa. This research highlights the impact of spatial and temporal correlations on food security and nutrition patterns and provides guidance for model selection and refinement. Researchers are encouraged to meticulously evaluate the biases and goodness of fit characteristics of models, ensuring their alignment with the specific attributes of their data and research goals. This knowledge empowers researchers to select models that offer reliability and consistency, enhancing the applicability of their findings.

Keywords: Bayesian poisson model; Markov chain monte carlo(MCMC); Matrix plot; Mean absolute error; Root mean square error; Watanabe akaike information criterion.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Variable Inflation Factor (VIF) for the 10 explanatory factors of FSN in Africa: a nutrient intake; b average food supply; c consumption status; d childcare; e caloric losses; f environment; g undernourishment; h food or nutritional stability; i adequate dietary supply; j newborn feeding practices
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Bias (RMSE) of spatiotemporal models (SPAM, SPLTM, STSM, and TMS) with varying spatio-temporal correlation
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Bias (RMSE) of spatiotemporal models (SPAM, SPLTM, STSM, and TMS) with varying spatio-temporal correlation
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Bias (RMSE) of spatiotemporal models (SPAM, SPLTM, STSM, and TMS) with varying spatio-temporal correlation
Fig. 3
Fig. 3
Bias (MAE) of spatiotemporal models(SPAM, SPLTM, STSM, and TMS) with varying spatio-temporal correlation
Fig. 3
Fig. 3
Bias (MAE) of spatiotemporal models(SPAM, SPLTM, STSM, and TMS) with varying spatio-temporal correlation
Fig. 4
Fig. 4
Distribution of coverage percentage for the SPAM model
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