Dynamic spatial and network sampling (1306.0817v1)

Abstract: This paper considers some designs for sampling and interventions in dynamic networks and spatial temporal settings. The sample spreads through the population largely by tracing network links, although random sampling or spatial designs may be used in addition. To investigate the effectiveness of different designs for finding units on which to make observations and introduce interventions is investigated through simulations. For this purpose a dynamic spatial network model is developed based on simple stochastic processes. The sampling processes considered have both acquisition processes and attrition process by which units are added and removed from the sample. The effect of an intervention introduced with a given sampling design is assessed by the change in the resulting equilibrium distribution or, in more detail, by the distribution of sample paths resulting from the intervention strategy.