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P Bruce

Publications and source records attributed to P Bruce.

9 recordsLinked to original sources

Comparing sequential associations within a single dyad.

We present a new application of sampled permutation testing to examine whether two sequential associations are different within a single dyad (e.g., a teacher and a student). A Monte Carlo simulation with the same (i.e., 100 vs. 100) or a different (100 vs. 400) number of event pairs was used to simulate designs that use time-based (typically producing equal-length comparisons) and event-based (typically producing different-length comparisons) data, respectively. For these pairs of simulated data streams, we compared the Type I error rates and the kappa for agreement on significance decisions, using the sampled permutation tests and the more traditional asymptotic log linear analysis. The results provide the first evidence relevant to evaluating the accuracy of log linear analysis and sampled permutation testing for the purpose of comparing sequential associations within a single dyad.

Behavioral Sciences↗

The resampling method of statistical analysis.

Some non-statisticians occasionally use improper statistical methodology due to a lack of appreciation for the model assumptions that underlie a particular technique. The resampling method is a recent attempt to solve statistical problems with a minimum of assumptions. In essence, resampling involves an intuitive approach to inferential statistics that obviates the need for the mathematically derived sampling distribution. The resampling approach takes advantage of readily accessible high-speed computers to do a computationally intensive Monte Carlo experiment on the available data. The resampling approach liberates the user from imposing assumptions that are sometimes dubious. It also directs one away from a black-box attitude toward statistical analysis and instead forces the user to consider the purpose of the inferential process. A particularly user-friendly implementation of resampling methods that addresses some of the problems faced by non-statisticians is found in a simple, yet powerful, computer program called "Resampling Stats," version 3.13.

Adult↗

Off-site preadmission unit supports hospital ambulatory surgical unit.

In a metropolitan setting with limited physical space to expand, a New England hospital has developed an off-site preadmission program. This article reviews the benefits of a preoperative appointment for ambulatory surgery unit and morning admission surgical patients and describes the planning of the new unit and details its daily operations. A patient satisfaction survey confirms the program's positive results.

Ambulatory Surgical Procedures↗

The physiological effects of inhaling exhaled cigarette smoke in relation to attitude of the nonsmoker.

Fifty-six nonsmoking college students were exposed, in a closed environment, for a period of 20 minutes to the exhaled cigarette smoke of two smokers. After intervals of 5, 10, 15 and 20 minutes of being exposed to the exhaled smoke, heart rates and systolic and diastolic blood pressures were monitored. Differences between times on systolic pressure was the only statistically significant finding. The subjects were then divided into two distinct attitude groups: (1) those who objected ("disliked") to being in the presence of cigarette smoke, and (2) those who did not mind ("indifferent") being in the presence of cigarette smoke. Variances attributable to between groups was statistically significantly different for heart rate. The "dislike" group had the higher rate in comparison to the "indifferent" group. Between times was statistically different for both groups for systolic pressure. Between group systolic pressures were not significantly different. As expected, there was no significant finding concerning diastolic changes.

Attitude↗

The new biostatistics of resampling.

The statistical techniques reported in medical journals are often poorly understood and misused by researchers, and difficult for readers to comprehend. Even the relatively simple t test embodies an intricate collection of mathematical formulas such as the Normal approximation, with unintuitive elements such as pi and e. The researcher must consult a body of rules indicating whether a technique is applicable or inapplicable. If he or she does select a sound method and use it correctly, its mathematical complexity will still leave most readers in the dark. In most situations the resampling approach is at least as efficient as the formulaic method. It is transparently clear to the researcher and reader, and it protects the researcher from using the wrong formulaic technique. In this paper we will define the four steps in the resampling method, compare this procedure with standard formulaic treatment of the same data, and discuss the advantages of the resampling approach.

Adult↗