On regularized estimation methods for precision and covariance matrix and statistical network inference

Estimation of the covariance matrix is an important problem in statistics in general because the covariance matrix is an essential part of principal component analysis, statistical pattern recognition, multivariate regression and network exploration, just to mention but a few applications. Penalized likelihood methods are used when standard estimates cannot be computed. This is a common case when the number of explanatory variables is much larger compared to the sample size (high-dimensional case). An alternative ridge-type estimator for the precision matrix estimation is introduced in Article I. This estimate is derived using a penalized likelihood estimation method. Undirected networks, which are connected to penalized covariance and precision matrix estimation and some applications related to networks are also explored in this dissertation. In Article II novel statistical methods are used to infer population networks from discrete measurements of genetic data. More precisely, Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator, LASSO for short, is applied in neighborhood selection. This inferred network is used for more detailed inference of population structures. We illustrate how community detection can be a promising tool in population structure and admixture exploration of genetic data. In addition, in Article IV it is shown how the precision matrix estimator introduced in Article I can be used in graphical model selection via a multiple hypothesis testing procedure. Article III in this dissertation contains a review of current tools for practical graphical model selection and precision/covariance matrix estimation. The other three publications have detailed descriptions of the fundamental computational and mathematical results which create a basis for the methods presented in these articles. Each publication contains a collection of practical research questions where the novel methods can be applied. We hope that these applications will help readers to better understand the possible applications of the methods presented in this dissertation.