An iterative algorithm for fitting nonconvex penalized generalized linear models with grouped predictors

High-dimensional data pose challenges in statistical learning and modeling. Sometimes the predictors can be naturally grouped where pursuing the between-group sparsity is desired. Collinearity may occur in real-world high-dimensional applications where the popular l(1) technique suffers from both selection inconsistency and prediction inaccuracy. Moreover, the problems of interest often go beyond Gaussian models. To meet these challenges, nonconvex penalized generalized linear models with grouped predictors are investigated and a simple-to-implement algorithm is proposed for computation. A rigorous theoretical result guarantees its convergence and provides tight preliminary scaling. This framework allows for grouped predictors and nonconvex penalties, including the discrete 10 and the l(0) + l(2)' type penalties. Penalty design and parameter tuning for nonconvex penalties are examined. Applications of super-resolution spectrum estimation in signal processing and cancer classification with joint gene selection in bioinformatics show the performance improvement by nonconvex penalized estimation. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.