Byers, J.A. 1996. Random selection algorithms for
spatial and temporal sampling. Computers in
Biology and Medicine 26:41-52. pdf
Abstract--
Seven BASIC programs are presented that use algorithms for selection of
treatments and samples in spatial and temporal contexts. Program (1) takes a
natural sequence of samples (such as logs cut from a tree trunk) and divides
them into groups (equal to the number of samples divided by treatments), and
then selects non-redundantly from each group a sample at random for each
treatment. Program (2) matches items from different categories equally to any
number of treatments in proportion to the numbers of items of each category.
Program (3) selects sampling times or segment lengths of specified interval and
number from within a time period or perimeter distance. These samples can be
spaced apart by at least a specified amount of time or distance but otherwise
are chosen at random. In program (4), a series of sample coordinates (x,y) are
chosen at random from a rectangular area so that no points are closer than a
specified minimum distance to any other. For each of the sample points, the
Cartesian and polar coordinates are given. Program (5) generates any possible
Latin square, while program (6) generates Latin cubes, and program (7) makes
Graeco-Latin cubes. Examples of program use and output are presented for
experiments with bark beetles (Coleoptera: Scolytidae) responding to pheromone
blends and colonizing host trees.
Download software: RANDOM-3.ZIP
Chemical Ecology