BACKGROUND Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) is usually based on trials where patients are randomized individually into two different, parallel, treatment groups. This paper concentrates on RCTs of a different design-two-period, two-treatment cross-over trials. METHODS The characteristics of these trials are outlined, with detailed examples of methods for analysis for both ...

MATERIALS AND METHODS: The portal vein branches supplying 50%–70% of the liver were embolized in eight pigs by using a combination of coils and polyvinyl alcohol particles. The extent of embolization was assessed at portography in all animals and at computed tomography in one animal. Hepatocyte replication was determined by calculating the percentage of cells that incorporated bromodeoxyuridine...

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Nine angiographic balloons (mean diameter, 9 mm) were placed in the livers of seven domestic pigs (mean weight, 30.0 kg 6 14.0 [SD]) as tumor-mimicking lesions. By using ultrasonographic and CT guidance, two 2.4or 3.0-mm cryoprobes were placed flanking the balloon, and a 15–20-minute freezing process was performed. Hemostasis was achieved by placing absorbable cellulose f...

Background: The choices of experimental design as well as of statistical analysis are of huge importance in field experiments. These are necessary to be correctly in order to obtain the best possible precision of the results. The random arrangements, randomized blocks and Latin square designs were reviewed and analyzed from the statistical perspective of error analysis. Material and Method: Ran...

Ecological evidence has suggested that health systems with a strong orientation towards primary care achieve lower overall costs, better satisfaction of their populations, and better health. Relevant research is essential to informing best practice in primary care settings, as this may be different to best practice in secondary or tertiary settings. However, several barriers have been described...