9.14Optional: Tests for paired samples

After a number of runners collapsed near the finish of the Tyneside annual Great North Run, researchers decided to study the role of $$\beta$$ endorphins as a factor in the collapses. ($$\beta$$ endorphins are a peptide which suppress pain.)

A study (Dale et al. 1987) examined what happened with plasma $$\beta$$ endorphins during fun runs: does the concentration of plasma $$\beta$$ endorphins increase, on average, during fun runs.

The researchers recorded the plasma $$\beta$$ concentrations in fun runners (participating in the Tyneside Great North Run). Eleven runners (who did not collapse) had their plasma $$\beta$$ concentrations measured (in pmol/litre) before and after the race (Table 9.6.) A ‘typical’ value for $$\beta$$ endorphines is usually under about 11 pmol/litre.

1. Explain why these data should be analysed as a paired means situation.

2. Which of the following is the correct null hypothesis for this question? Why are the others incorrect? Is the test one- or two-tailed?

• $$\mu_{\text{Before}} = \mu_{\text{After}}$$
• $$\mu_{\text{Difference}} = 0$$
• $$\mu_{\text{Before}} = 0$$
• $$\mu_{\text{After}} = 0$$
• $$\mu_{\text{Before}} < \mu_{\text{After}}$$
• $$\mu_{\text{Difference}} > 0$$
• $$\mu_{\text{Before}} < 0$$
• $$\mu_{\text{After}} > 0$$
3. Write down the mean, standard deviation and standard error, using Fig. 9.19 (jamovi) or Fig. 9.20s (SPSS).

4. Write down the value of the $$t$$-statistic, then estimate the $$P$$-value.

5. Write a statement that communicates the result of the test.

6. What conditions must be met for this test to be valid?

7. Is it reasonable to assume the assumptions are satisfied? Use the histogram of the data in Fig. 9.21 to help.

TABLE 9.6: Plasma-beta concentration for runners, before and after the race
Before After Difference
4.3 29.6 25.3
4.6 25.1 20.5
5.2 15.5 10.3
5.2 29.6 24.4
6.6 24.1 17.5
7.2 37.8 30.6
8.4 20.1 11.7
9.0 21.9 12.9
10.4 14.2 3.8
14.0 34.6 20.6
17.8 46.2 28.4

References

Dale, G., J. A. Fleetwood, Ann. Weddell, R. D. Ellis, and J. R. Sainsbury. 1987. “$$\beta$$ Endorphin: A Factor in ‘Fun Run’ Collapse?” British Medical Journal 294: 1004.