Empirical Bayes Estimation of Rates in Longitudinal Studies
纵向研究中变化率的经验贝叶斯估计
The usually irregular follow-up intervals in epidemiologic studies preclude the use of classical growth curve analysis. For short follow-up intervals, it is suggested that individual rates of change are useful for exploratory analysis. Empirical Bayes estimates of these rates of change are recommended and developed. An example of bone loss with age in women is also given.