Employing multiple synchronous outcome samples per subject to improve study efficiency.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Accuracy can be improved by taking multiple synchronous samples from each subject in a study to estimate the endpoint of interest if sample values are not highly correlated. If feasible, it is useful to assess the value of this cluster approach when planning studies. Multiple assessments may be the only method to increase power to an acceptable level if the number of subjects is limited.

Methods

The main aim is to estimate the difference in outcome between groups of subjects by taking one or more synchronous primary outcome samples or measurements. A summary statistic from multiple samples per subject will typically have a lower sampling error. The number of subjects can be balanced against the number of synchronous samples to minimize the sampling error, subject

SUBMITTER: A'Hern RP 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8520627 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature