Biostatistical Analysis: A Primer for Clinical Exercise Physiology, Part 1
ABSTRACT In this first of a two-part series on introductory biostatistics, we briefly describe common designs. The advantages and disadvantages of six design types are highlighted. The randomized clinical trial is the gold standard to which other designs are compared. We present the benefits of randomization and discuss the importance of power and sample size. Sample size and power calculations for any design need to be based on meaningful effects of interest. We give examples of how the effect of interest and the sample size interrelate. We also define concepts helpful to the statistical inference process. When drawing conclusions from a completed study, P values, point estimates, and confidence intervals will all assist the researcher. Finally, the issue of multiple comparisons is briefly explored. The second paper in this series will describe basic analytical techniques and discuss some common mistakes in the interpretation of data.