Multilevel Longitudinal Models and Causal Networks for Childhood Obesity
Research Question
This study proposes to develop and apply innovative statistical methods to the Fels Longitudinal Study database to analyze multivariate and multilevel determinants of the increase in prevalence of childhood obesity over the past three decades.
Modeling Approach
hierarchical model, structural equation model, Granger causal network
ARRA: Childhood Obesity and Sexual Maturation
Principal Investigator
Shumei Sun, PhD
Professor & Chair
VCU
Research Question
The proposed computer upgrade and added personnel would increase our capability to perform the clinical and translational research on body composition and puberty that is currently under way by enhancing data collection and data sharing among investigators and co-investigators at VCU and Wright State University.
Modeling Approach
hierarchical model, structural equation model, Granger casual network
Analysis of Longitudinal Cardiopulmonary Data
Principal Investigator
Bernard Rosner, PhD
Professor
Harvard Medical School
Co-Investigator
Shumei Sun, PhD
Professor & Chair
VCU
Research Question
To derive an efficient screening rule for identifying children with high blood pressure, and look at the predictive value of childhood blood pressure as a risk factor for hypertension as a young adult.
Modeling Approach
hierarchical model
Principal Investigator
Shumei Sun, PhD
Professor & Chair
Virginia Commonwealth University
Co-Investigators
Levent Dumenci, PhD
Associate Professor
VCU
Nitai Mukhopadhyay, PhD
Assistant Professor
VCU
Roy Sabo, PhD
Assistant Professor
VCU
Yong Yun Shin, PhD
Assistant Professor
VCU
A collaboration among: 
