title: A Monte Carlo/response surface strategy for sensitivity analysis:  application to a dynamic model of vegetative plant growth.
abstract: We describe the application of a strategy for conducting a sensitivity analysis for a complex dynamic model.  The procedure involves preliminary screening of parameter sensitivities by numerical estimation of linear sensitivity coefficients, followed by generation of a response surface based on Monte Carlo simulation.  Application is to a physiological model of the vegetative growth of soybean plants.  The analysis provides insights as to the relative importance of certain physiological processes in controlling plant growth.  Advantages and disadvantages of the strategy are discussed.
authors.affiliation: Department of Resource Crop, Soon Chun National University, Junnam, Republic of Korea.
authors.forename: J T
authors.initials: JT
authors.lastname: Lim
authors.forename: H J
authors.initials: HJ
authors.lastname: Gold
authors.forename: G G
authors.initials: GG
authors.lastname: Wilkerson
authors.forename: C D
authors.initials: CD
authors.lastname: Raper
mesh_terms: D002245:Carbon Dioxide / Q000378:metabolism; D018527:Hydroponics; D008027:Light; D008433:Mathematics; D008954:Models, Biological; D009010:Monte Carlo Method; D009584:Nitrogen / Q000494:pharmacology; D013025:Glycine max / Q000187:drug effects / Q000254:growth & development* / Q000378:metabolism*; D014867:Water
chemical_list: D014867:Water; D002245:Carbon Dioxide; D009584:Nitrogen