Statistical and biological significance

Interpretation of the results of a study should be truly scientific and integrative. It is elementary to have the report state only each statistically and biologically significant finding in an orderly manner. The meaning and significance of each in relation to other findings, as well as the relevance to potential human effects, must be evaluated and addressed. 

Once the overall assay conduct has been determined to be acceptable, the assay is evaluated for a positive response. A variety of aspects of the response to the test chemical are considered in evaluating the response. These include the magnitude of the response, the statistical and biological significance, reproducibility (both in replicates within the assay and in repeated independent assays), and the presence or absence of a dose-response. Based on these considerations, an overall evaluation is made. 

Lowcst-Obsciwcd-Advcrsc-El fcct-Lcvel (LOAEL) In dose-response experiments, the lowest exposure level at which there are statistically or biologically significant increases in frequency or severity of adverse effects between the exposed population and its appropriate control group. 

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