Model-independent procedure for area estimation and intergroup comparisons.
A method is provided for estimating the area under a response-time curve for an experimental situation where independent observations are made at each time point. The procedure utilizes least-squares spline functions and the jackknife technique to provide area estimates, standard errors, and a statistical test for intergroup comparisons. The method is based on an empirical model and provides a means of analysis when no prior model can be specified or if the incorrect specification of a model will produce invalid results. The method is illustrated using data from a study comparing the pharmacokinetic behavior of a fasciolicide in rats having either a young or old parasitic infestation. The results obtained are comparable with those generated by a model-dependent approach.
D000818:Animals; D000871:Anthelmintics / Q000378:metabolism; D005210:Fasciola hepatica; D005211:Fascioliasis / Q000378:metabolism; D007700:Kinetics; D004364:Pharmaceutical Preparations / Q000378:metabolism*; D051381:Rats; D013223:Statistics as Topic
D000871:Anthelmintics; D004364:Pharmaceutical Preparations