r-ConsensusOPLS

Merging data from multiple sources is a relevant approach for comprehensively evaluating complex systems. However, the inherent problems encountered when analyzing single tables are amplified with the generation of multi-block datasets, and finding the relationships between data layers of increasing complexity constitutes a challenging task. For that purpose, a generic methodology is proposed by combining the strengths of established data analysis strategies, i.e. multi-block approaches and the Orthogonal Partial Least Squares (OPLS) framework to provide an efficient tool for the fusion of data obtained from multiple sources. The package enables quick and efficient implementation of the consensus OPLS model for any horizontal multi-block data structure (observation-based matching). Moreover, it offers an interesting range of metrics and graphics to help to determine the optimal number of components and check the validity of the model through permutation tests. Interpretation tools include scores and loadings plots, as well as Variable Importance in Projection (VIP), and performance coefficients such as R2, Q2 and DQ2 coefficients. J. Boccard and D.N. Rutledge (2013) <doi:10.1016/j.aca.2013.01.022>.