This work presents a version of the Metropolis-Hastings algorithm using quasi-Monte Carlo inputs. We prove that the method yields consistent estimates in some problems with finite state spaces and completely uniformly distributed inputs. In some numerical examples, the proposed method is much more accurate than ordinary Metropolis-Hastings sampling.

OBJECTIVES To evaluate the post hoc study power of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in the treatment of non-renal SLE and to determine the generalizability of these RCTs using an SLE database. METHODS RCTs in non-renal SLE were identified using PubMed (1975-2007). Inclusion/exclusion criteria, trial quality (5-point scale) and results of each study were recorded. The inclusion/exclusion cr...

In nephrology research, both observational studies and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are commonly applied. Clinicians using the evidence from epidemiological studies should be aware of the specific qualities and limitations of each study design. The purpose of the article is therefore to provide a brief overview of the range of study designs and to comment on the most important strengths ...

OBJECTIVE To review the nature of outcome measures used to evaluate psychosocial treatment in children. METHOD Recent research findings that highlight the importance of outcome data and justify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are reviewed. RESULTS Outcome measures of child therapy can focus on changes in the child's symptoms, adaptation to the psychosocial environment, cognitive or emot...

Chronic sun exposure leads to photodamage, which is characterized clinically by fine and coarse wrinkles, dyspigmentation, telangiectasia, laxity, roughness and a sallow appearance. Many treatments claim to reduce the signs of photodamage, however evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCT) to support these claims is limited. The use of topical retinoids, particularly tretinoin, isotretino...

The decision to use a new test should be based on evidence that it will improve patient outcomes or produce other benefits without adversely affecting patients. In principle, long-term randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of test-plus-treatment strategies offer ideal evidence of the benefits of introducing a new test relative to current best practice. However, long-term RCTs may not always be ne...

This critical review examines the effects of notched-sound therapy on the human auditory system and its’ potential as a novel and effective treatment option for tinnitus. Studies evaluated consisted of one mixed groups randomized clinical trial, two mixed groups pseudorandomized clinical trials, and two mixed groups non-randomized clinical trials. Analyses of these studies revealed moderate evi...

Young children regularly engage in musical activities, but the effects of early music education on children's cognitive development are unknown. While some studies have found associations between musical training in childhood and later nonmusical cognitive outcomes, few randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have been employed to assess causal effects of music lessons on child cognition and no cle...

S t u d y s e l e c t i o n Studies published in English were included if they were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing interventions that included aerobic exercise (treatment group) with interventions without aerobic exercise (control group), lasted ≥ 2 weeks, reported changes in blood pressure (systolic, diastolic, or both) from baseline to follow-up with the corresponding variances...

Sample size calculations are advocated by the CONSORT group to justify sample sizes in randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The aim of this study was primarily to evaluate the reporting of sample size calculations, to establish the accuracy of these calculations in dental RCTs and to explore potential predictors associated with adequate reporting. Electronic searching was undertaken in eight le...