Semiparametric Inference in the Proportional Odds Regression Model

Abstract

For fitting the proportional odds regression model with right-censored survival times, we introduce some weighted empirical odds functions. These functions are solutions of some self-consistency equations and have a nice martingale representation. From these functions, several classes of new regression estimators, such as the pseudo–maximum likelihood estimator, martingale residual-based estimators, and minimum distance estimators, are derived. These estimators have desirable properties such as easy computation, asymptotic normality via a martingale analysis, and reliable asymptotic covariance estimation in closed form. Extensive numerical studies show that the minimum L ₂ distance estimators have very good finite-sample behaviors compared to existing methods. Results of some simulation studies and applications to a real dataset are given. The weighted odds function–based approach also provides inference on the baseline odds function and some measures for lack-of-fit analysis.

Key Words:

• Martingale
• Proportional odds regression
• Semiparametric model
• Survival analysis
• Weighted empirical process