The Design and Analysis Core (Core F) is the centralized source for study design and statistical analysesexpertise as well as data collection and management services to support the research of the members of theBaylor-UTHouston CFAR. Core F was established in 1994 and continues to meet the needs of CFARmembers as evidenced from needs assessment surveys. The specific goals of Core F are: (1) to provideepidemiologic and statistical design and analysis support for AIDS-related research; (2) to assist thedevelopment of new AIDS investigators with the study design, statistical analysis, 1KB applications, andgrant writing component of the BCM-UTHouston CFAR mentoring program; (3) to assist investigators inestablishing procedures for development and management of research-study-specific databases to beconducive to efficient statistical analyses; (4) to provide study design and analysis leadership in collaborationwith basic, behavioral, and clinical sciences investigators as well as with investigators from the Baylor andUTHouston institutions; and (5) to maintain a communications system, resources, and a core staff, therebyproviding a structure aimed at assisting investigators to design studies and analyze data. A high priority ofCore F is assisting new investigators with the process of research study design and development. With earlyand timely collaboration with Core F, feasible research designs and robust statistical analyses can be planned.A biostatistician with background and expertise in behavioral research methodology has been added inanticipation of additional Core service requests as a result of the newly proposed Behavioral Science Core G.Consulting biostatisticians have also been added to strengthen and broaden the statistical service provided byCore F. Sufficient computer facilities and software are available to manage the current needs of CFARinvestigators; anticipated charge-back funds can be used for future needs. Core F operates under standardpolicies and procedures with guidance from the Core's Oversight Committee, the CFAR Internal AdvisoryCommittee, and the CFAR External Advisors. In addition, Core F will be evaluated regularly to determinethe effectiveness of the core services and functions.
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