Home About us Contact
|
Home About us Contact | ||
|
|
||
Study Data (study + data)
Kinds of Study Data Selected AbstractsInference for Kappas for Longitudinal Study Data: Applications to Sexual Health ResearchBIOMETRICS, Issue 3 2008Yan Ma Summary Analysis of instrument reliability and rater agreement is used in a wide range of behavioral, medical, psychosocial, and health-care-related research to assess psychometric properties of instruments, consensus in disease diagnoses, fidelity of psychosocial intervention, and accuracy of proxy outcomes. For categorical outcomes, Cohen's kappa is the most widely used index of agreement and reliability. In many modern-day applications, data are often clustered, making inference difficult to perform using existing methods. In addition, as longitudinal study designs become increasingly popular, missing data have become a serious issue, and the lack of methods to systematically address this problem has hampered the progress of research in the aforementioned fields. In this article, we develop a novel approach based on a new class of kappa estimates to tackle the complexities involved in addressing missing data and other related issues arising from a general multirater and longitudinal data setting. The approach is illustrated with real data in sexual health research. [source] Summary of contributions to GAW Group 15: family-based samples are useful in identifying common polymorphisms associated with complex traitsGENETIC EPIDEMIOLOGY, Issue S1 2009Stacey Knight Abstract Traditionally, family-based samples have been used for genetic analyses of single-gene traits caused by rare but highly penetrant risk variants. The utility of family-based genetic data for analyzing common complex traits is unclear and contains numerous challenges. To assess the utility as well as to address these challenges, members of Genetic Analysis Workshop 16 Group 15 analyzed Framingham Heart Study data using family-based designs ranging from parent,offspring trios to large pedigrees. We investigated different methods including traditional linkage tests, family-based association tests, and population-based tests that correct for relatedness between subjects, and tests to detect parent-of-origin effects. The analyses presented an assortment of positive findings. One contribution found increased power to detect epistatic effects through linkage using ascertainment of sibships based on extreme quantitative values or presence of disease associated with the quantitative value. Another contribution found four single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) showing a maternal effect, two SNPs with an imprinting effect, and one SNP having both effects on a binary high blood pressure trait. Finally, three contributions illustrated the advantage of using population-based methods to detect association to complex binary or quantitative traits. Our findings highlight the contribution of family-based samples to the genetic dissection of complex traits. Genet. Epidemiol. 33 (Suppl. 1):S99,S104, 2009. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Informative-Transmission Disequilibrium Test (i-TDT): combined linkage and association mapping that includes unaffected offspring as well as affected offspringGENETIC EPIDEMIOLOGY, Issue 2 2007Chao-Yu Guo Abstract To date, there is no test valid for the composite null hypothesis of no linkage or no association that utilizes transmission information from heterozygous parents to their unaffected offspring as well as the affected offspring from ascertained nuclear families. Since the unaffected siblings also provide information about linkage and association, we introduce a new strategy called the informative-transmission disequilibrium test (i-TDT), which uses transmission information from heterozygous parents to all of the affected and unaffected offspring in ascertained nuclear families and provides a valid chi-square test for both linkage and association. The i-TDT can be used in various study designs and can accommodate all types of independent nuclear families with at least one affected offspring. We show that the transmission/disequilibrium test (TDT) (Spielman et al. [1993] Am. J. Hum. Genet. 52:506,516) is a special case of the i-TDT, if the study sample contains only case-parent trios. If the sample contains only affected and unaffected offspring without parental genotypes, the i-TDT is equivalent to the sibship disequilibrium test (SDT) (Horvath and Laird [1998] Am. J. Hum. Genet. 63:1886,1897. In addition, the test statistic of i-TDT is simple, explicit and can be implemented easily without intensive computing. Through computer simulations, we demonstrate that power of the i-TDT can be higher in many circumstances compared to a method that uses affected offspring only. Applying the i-TDT to the Framingham Heart Study data, we found that the apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene is significantly linked and associated with cross-sectional measures and longitudinal changes in total cholesterol. Genet. Epidemiol. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Longitudinal data analysis in pedigree studiesGENETIC EPIDEMIOLOGY, Issue S1 2003W. James Gauderman Abstract Longitudinal family studies provide a valuable resource for investigating genetic and environmental factors that influence long-term averages and changes over time in a complex trait. This paper summarizes 13 contributions to Genetic Analysis Workshop 13, which include a wide range of methods for genetic analysis of longitudinal data in families. The methods can be grouped into two basic approaches: 1) two-step modeling, in which repeated observations are first reduced to one summary statistic per subject (e.g., a mean or slope), after which this statistic is used in a standard genetic analysis, or 2) joint modeling, in which genetic and longitudinal model parameters are estimated simultaneously in a single analysis. In applications to Framingham Heart Study data, contributors collectively reported evidence for genes that affected trait mean on chromosomes 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 9, 10, 13, and 17, but most did not find genes affecting slope. Applications to simulated data suggested that even for a gene that only affected slope, use of a mean-type statistic could provide greater power than a slope-type statistic for detecting that gene. We report on the results of a small experiment that sheds some light on this apparently paradoxical finding, and indicate how one might form a more powerful test for finding a slope-affecting gene. Several areas for future research are discussed. Genet Epidemiol 25 (Suppl. 1):S18,S28, 2003. © 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Delayed Parental Divorce: How Much Do Children Benefit?JOURNAL OF MARRIAGE AND FAMILY, Issue 2 2001Frank F. Furstenberg This study compares children who experienced divorce in childhood with those who were young adults when their parents divorced to differentiate between long-term effects of divorce resulting from preexisting factors, including the child's behavioral problems and psychological status as well as the family's economic circumstances, and those resulting from divorce itself. We used National Child Development Study data on 11,409 British children born in 1958 and followed up until age 33. Children's long-term welfare appears to be linked both to conditions preceding and following the divorce event. The results point to some limitations of existing studies on divorce and suggest caution in drawing conclusions about average effects of divorce. The impact of divorce appears to be a complex blend of selection and socialization. [source] The Reagan Democrat Phenomenon: How Wise Was the Conventional Wisdom?POLITICS & POLICY, Issue 4 2005Julio Borquez This article examines vote defection by white Democrats in the presidential elections of 1980,1988 and reconsiders the foundations of the "Reagan Democrat" phenomenon. The conventional wisdom has been that the defection of Reagan Democrats was motivated by conservative policy preferences, especially on race and redistribution. National Election Study data from 1980,1988 are used to test a multivariate model of vote choice. In 1980 and 1984, Democratic defectors were much more influenced by performance assessments than by policy preferences. Contrary to the prevailing storyline, Reagan Democrats were not voting to endorse a conservative policy agenda, but were more generally punishing Jimmy Carter in 1980 for poor performance in office and rewarding Ronald Reagan in 1984 for a job well done. Racial policy was a more potent influence on defection in 1988. [source] Telephone Appointment Visits for Head and Neck Surgery Follow-up Care,,THE LARYNGOSCOPE, Issue 6 2002Jeffrey Eaton MD Abstract Objectives/Hypothesis To test the hypothesis that patients with a variety of otolaryngologic diagnoses using telephone appointment visits would be equally as satisfied as patients receiving physician office visits, the study compared telephone appointment visits with physician office visits for health maintenance organization patients who needed routine follow-up care in a head and neck surgery clinic. Study Design Randomized, nonblinded cross-sectional study. Methods After their initial visit to either of two head and neck surgery clinics, new otolaryngology patients were randomly assigned into treatment and control groups. Patients in the treatment group (n = 73) received follow-up care in the form of telephone appointment visits, and patients in the control group (n = 80) received physician office visits for follow-up care. Study data were collected using telephone interviews and physician trackingforms. Results Patients receiving telephone appointment visits were significantly less satisfied with their visits than patients receiving physician office visits (,2 = 25.4, P <.005). Patients who had physician office visits were significantly more likely than were patients in the treatment group to agree "somewhat" or "strongly" that 1) the physician addressed their questions and concerns (,2 = 24.0, P <.005); 2) the physician provided personal care and attention (,2 =29.9, P <.005); and 3) the physician provided high-quality care (,2 =34.5, P <.005). Conclusions Patients who received telephone appointment visits were statistically significantly less satisfied with all aspects of their follow-up appointment than were patients who had physician office visits. The study findings indicate that telephone appointment visits may not be an ideal type of follow-up visit for all patients. Despite these findings, one third of patients in the treatment group would consider receiving a telephone appointment visit for future routine follow-up care, and 21.9% had no preference, perhaps a factor indicating willingness to receive a telephone appointment for a follow-up visit. [source] The Association Between Emergency Medical Technician-Basic (EMT-B) Exam Score, Length of EMT-B Certification, and Success on the National Paramedic Certification ExamACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE, Issue 9 2009Antonio R. Fernandez MS, NREMT-P Abstract Objectives:, Factors that affect success on the national paramedic certification examination have been identified. However, there are no known studies that have examined success on the paramedic exam with respect to either Emergency Medical Technician-Basic (EMT-B) examination score or length of EMT-B certification (which may reflect field experience gained prior to enrolling in paramedic training). The objectives of this study included assessing the relationship of EMT-B examination score and length of EMT-B certification to success on the national paramedic certification examination. Methods:, Study data were obtained from the National Registry of EMTs (NREMT). First attempts of the NREMT paramedic certification exam from 2002 to 2006 were included. To assure that EMT-B certification exam scores were recorded, analysis was limited to individuals in the 14 states that have utilized NREMT for initial certification of both EMT-Bs and paramedics since January 1, 1997. This also facilitated accurate calculations of the length of EMT-B certification. Results:, There were 11,163 individuals meeting inclusion criteria, and a complete case analysis was performed on 9,148, of whom 5,826 (63.7%) passed the national paramedic exam. The mean (±SD) score on the EMT-B cognitive exam was 75.5 (±6.4%), and the mean (±SD) length of EMT-B certification prior to paramedic testing was 3.2 (±2.3) years. When placed in a logistic regression model, the EMT-B exam score variable was categorized in quartiles (,71%, 72%,75%, 76%,79%, and ,80%), and the length of EMT-B certification variable was dichotomized (,1.6 years vs. >1.6 years). With respect to paramedic exam success, after controlling for known confounders, there was an increase in the odds ratio (OR) across each of the quartiles of EMT-B exam score. The largest difference was seen when comparing the lowest and highest quartiles (paramedic exam pass rates of 45.6 and 80.8%, respectively; OR = 5.4, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 4.7 to 6.2). Individuals whose length of EMT-B certification was >1.6 years had increased odds of passing the paramedic examination (OR = 1.2, 95% CI = 1.1 to 1.3). The multivariable logistic regression model demonstrated good fit (p = 0.62). Conclusions:, Both EMT-B examination score and ength of EMT-B certification are associated with success on first attempt at the cognitive portion of the national paramedic certification exam. Educators may wish to consider these two factors when determining paramedic program admission standards and/or consider these variables when determining how to allocate program resources. [source] Nonignorable Missingness in Matched Case,Control Data AnalysesBIOMETRICS, Issue 2 2004Myunghee Cho Paik Summary. Matched case,control data analysis is often challenged by a missing covariate problem, the mishandling of which could cause bias or inefficiency. Satten and Carroll (2000, Biometrics56, 384,388) and other authors have proposed methods to handle missing covariates when the probability of missingness depends on the observed data, i.e., when data are missing at random. In this article, we propose a conditional likelihood method to handle the case when the probability of missingness depends on the unobserved covariate, i.e., when data are nonignorably missing. When the missing covariate is binary, the proposed method can be implemented using standard software. Using the Northern Manhattan Stroke Study data, we illustrate the method and discuss how sensitivity analysis can be conducted. [source] Voltammetric Determination of ,-Tocopheryl Acetate in Pharmaceutical Dosage FormsELECTROANALYSIS, Issue 11 2004Slawomir Michalkiewicz Abstract A simple and rapid voltammetric method has been developed for the quantitative determination of ,-tocopheryl acetate (,-TOAc) in pharmaceutical preparations. Studies with linear scan (LSV), square-wave (SQWV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) were carried out using platinum microelectrodes. A well-defined, irreversible oxidation wave/peak was obtained at 1.30,V (vs. Ag/AgCl reference electrode.) The use of SQWV or DPV technique provides a precise determination of ,-tocopheryl acetate using the multiple standard addition method. The statistical parameters and the recovery study data clearly indicate good reproducibility and accuracy of the method. Accuracy of the results assessed by recovery trials was found within the 99.3% to 103.5%, and 99.1% to 101.4%, for SQWV and DPV, respectively. The quantification limits for the both voltammetric techniques were found to be 6×10,5,M (SQWV) and 7×10,5,M (DPV). Analysis of the authentic samples containing ,-TOAc showed no interference with common additives and excipients, such as unsaturated fatty acids (co-formulated as glycerine esters) and vitamin A (as retinol or ,-carotene). The method proposed does not require any pretreatment of the pharmaceutical dosage forms. A gas chromatography determination of ,-TOAc in real samples was also performed for comparison. [source] Cost-effectiveness of pharmacy and group behavioural support smoking cessation services in GlasgowADDICTION, Issue 2 2009Kathleen A. Boyd ABSTRACT Aims Smokers attending group-based support for smoking cessation in Glasgow are significantly more likely to be successful than those attending pharmacy-based support. This study examined the cost-effectiveness of these two modes of support. Design Combination of observational study data and information from National Health Service (NHS) Greater Glasgow and Clyde smoking cessation services. Setting Glasgow, Scotland. Participants A total of 1979 smokers who accessed either of the cessation services between March and May 2007. Intervention Two smoking treatment services offering one-to-one support in pharmacies, and providing group counselling in the community. Measurements Routine monitoring data on resource use and smoking status (carbon monoxide-validated, self-reported, non-quitters and relapsers) at 4-week follow-up. Findings The incremental cost per 4-week quitter for pharmacy support was found to be approximately £772, and £1612 for group support, in comparison to self-quit cessation attempts. These findings compare favourably with previously published outcomes from cost-effectiveness smoking cessation studies. Assuming a relapse rate of 75% from 4 weeks to 1 year and a further 35% beyond 1 year, and combining this with an average of 1.98 quality adjusted life years (QALY) gained per permanent cessation, provides an estimated incremental cost per QALY of £4400 for the pharmacy service and £5400 for group support service. Conclusions Group support and pharmacy-based support for smoking cessation are both extremely cost-effective. [source] Robust estimation and testing of haplotype effects in case-control studies,,GENETIC EPIDEMIOLOGY, Issue 1 2008Andrew S. Allen Abstract Haplotype-based analyses are thought to play a major role in the study of common complex diseases. This has led to the development of a variety of statistical methods for detecting disease-haplotype associations from case-control study data. However, haplotype phase is often uncertain when only genotype data is available. Methods that account for haplotype ambiguity by modeling the distribution of haplotypes can, if this distribution is misspecified, lead to substantial bias in parameter estimates even when complete genotype data is available. Here we study estimators that can be derived from score functions of appropriate likelihoods. We use the efficient score approach to estimation in the presence of nuisance parameters to a derive novel estimators that are robust to the haplotype distribution. We establish key relationships between estimators and study their empirical performance via simulation. Genet. Epidemiol. 2007. Published 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Myocilin allele-specific glaucoma phenotype database,HUMAN MUTATION, Issue 2 2008Alex W. Hewitt Abstract Glaucoma, a complex heterogenous disease, is the leading cause for optic nerve,related blindness worldwide. Since 1997, when mutations in the myocilin (MYOC) gene were identified as causing juvenile onset as well as a proportion of primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), more than 180 variants have been documented. Approximately one in 30 unselected patients with POAG have a disease-causing myocilin mutation and it has been shown that firm genotype,phenotype correlations exist. We have compiled an online catalog of myocilin variants and their associated phenotypes. This locus-specific resource, to which future submissions can be made, is available online (www.myocilin.com; last accessed 28 August 2007). The database, constructed using MySQL, contains three related sheets that contain data pertaining to the information source, variant identified, and relevant study data, respectively. The website contains a list of all identified variants and summary statistics as well as background genomic information, such as the annotated sequence and cross-protein/species homology. Phenotypic data such as the mean±standard deviation (SD) age at POAG diagnosis, mean±SD maximum recorded intraocular pressure, proportion of patients requiring surgical intervention, and age-related penetrance can be viewed by selecting a particular mutation. Approximately 40% of the identified sequence variants have been characterized as disease causing, with the majority (,85%) of these being missense mutations. Preliminary data generated from this online resource highlight the strong genotype,phenotype correlations associated with specific myocilin mutations. The large-scale assimilation of relevant data allows for accurate comprehensive genetic counseling and the translation of genomic information into the clinic. Hum Mutat 29(2), 207,211, 2008. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Simulating soil-water movement under a hedgerow surrounding a bottomland reveals the importance of transpiration in water balanceHYDROLOGICAL PROCESSES, Issue 5 2008Z. Thomas Abstract The objective of this study was to quantify components of the water balance related to root-water uptake in the soil below a hedgerow. At this local scale, a two-dimensional (2D) flow domain in the x,z plane 6 m long and 1·55 m deep was considered. An attempt was made to estimate transpiration using a simulation model. The SWMS-2D model was modified and used to simulate temporally and spatially heterogeneous boundary conditions. A function with a variable spatial distribution of root-water uptake was considered, and model calibration was performed by adjusting this root-water uptake distribution. Observed data from a previous field study were compared against model predictions. During the validation step, satisfactory agreement was obtained, as the difference between observed and modelled pressure head values was less than 50 cm for 80% of the study data. Hedge transpiration capacity is a significant component of soil-water balance in the summer, when predicted transpiration reaches about 5·6 mm day,1. One of the most important findings is that hedge transpiration is nearly twice that of a forest canopy. In addition, soil-water content is significantly different whether downslope or upslope depending on the root-water uptake. The high transpiration rate was mainly due to the presence of a shallow water table below the hedgerow trees. Soil-water content was not a limiting factor for transpiration in this context, as it could be in one with a much deeper water table. Hedgerow tree transpiration exerts a strong impact not only on water content within the vadose zone but also on the water-table profile along the transect. Results obtained at the local scale reveal that the global impact of hedges at the catchment scale has been underestimated in the past. Transpiration rate exerts a major influence on water balance at both the seasonal and annual scales for watersheds with a dense network of hedgerows. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Mind the gap: national and local partnership in the Irish public sectorINDUSTRIAL RELATIONS JOURNAL, Issue 5 2010Michael Doherty ABSTRACT This article uses case study data from a major Irish city council to investigate and explain public sector worker attitudes towards social partnership at local and national level. It is argued that the more sceptical attitudes to workplace partnership reflect structural differences between local and national arrangements, which have enabled public sector employers to use ,social partnership' as a constraint in the implementation process of a pre-determined public sector reform agenda. [source] Exploring nursing outcomes for patients with advanced cancer following intervention by Macmillan specialist palliative care nursesJOURNAL OF ADVANCED NURSING, Issue 6 2003Jessica Corner BSc PhD RGN OncCert Background.,Little information exists about the outcomes from nursing interventions, and few studies report new approaches to evaluating the complex web of effects that may result from specialist nursing care. Aims.,The aim of this study was to explore nursing outcomes for patients with advanced cancer that may be identified as resulting from the care of a Macmillan specialist palliative care nurse. Methods/instruments.,Seventy-six patients referred to 12 United Kingdom Macmillan specialist palliative care nursing services participated in a longitudinal study of their care over 28 days. Patients were interviewed and completed the European Organization for Research on Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Scale and the Palliative Care Outcomes Scale at referral, and 3, 7 and 28 days following referral to a Macmillan specialist palliative care nursing service. A nominated carer was interviewed at baseline and 28 days. Notes recorded by Macmillan specialist palliative care nurses in relation to each patient case were analysed. Findings.,Significant improvements in emotional (P = 0·03) and cognitive functioning (P = 0·03) were identified in changes in patients' European Organization for Research on Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Scale scores, and in Palliative Care Outcomes Scale patient anxiety scores (P = 0·003), from baseline to day 7. Analysis of case study data indicated that overall positive outcomes of care from Macmillan specialist palliative care nursing intervention were achieved in 42 (55%) cases. Study limitations.,Sample attrition due to patients' deteriorating condition limited the value of data from the quality of life measures. The method developed for evaluating nursing outcomes using data from patient and carer interviews and nursing records was limited by a lack of focus on outcomes of care in these data sources. Conclusions.,A method was developed for evaluating outcomes of nursing care in complex situations such as care of people who are dying. Positive outcomes of care for patients that were directly attributable to the care provided by Macmillan specialist palliative care nurses were found for the majority of patients. For a small number of patients, negative outcomes of care were identified. [source] Costs and Strategies in Minority Recruitment for Osteoporosis Research,JOURNAL OF BONE AND MINERAL RESEARCH, Issue 1 2003Miriam A Marquez Abstract To meet expectations for the participation of minority populations in research, we committed to enroll 140 minority subjects in addition to a random sample of Olmsted County, Minnesota residents (90% white) for a study of risk factors for age-related bone loss and fractures. We successfully enrolled 597 additional minority subjects but encountered specific problems with respect to identification of potential subjects, recruitment, obtaining informed consent, transportation to the study site, and collecting study data. These problems were resolved by observing the tenets of outreach to a diverse study population, namely (1) understand the target population; (2) establish explicit recruitment goals; (3) agree on research plans between study staff and minority communities; (4) continuously evaluate the recruitment process; and (5) maintain lines of communication. Success depended especially on the recruitment of cultural advisors from the different ethnic groups. These special efforts increased the recruitment cost substantially; the total expense of $122,000 for recruiting 550 Asian, Hispanic, and Somali subjects was almost 5-fold higher than the $26,000 required to recruit 699 mostly white study subjects from the population who were contacted by mail. Although it is not impossible to recruit minority subjects, investigators (and grant reviewers) should recognize that significant resources are required to gain access to ethnic communities for research. These results should contribute to more realistic budgets for recruiting minority subjects into clinical research studies. [source] Related factors in using a free breastfeeding hotline service in TaiwanJOURNAL OF CLINICAL NURSING, Issue 7 2008IBCLC, Shu-Fang Wang RN Aims., This study aimed to examine the use of a free hotline service for breastfeeding mothers in Taiwan. Specific attention was given to the accumulated consultation time and to investigate the trends and reasons that prompted people to contact the service. Background., Breastfeeding can be a difficult time for mothers, especially during the first two weeks after birth. It has been suggested that a telephone hotline service may be helpful for breastfeeding mothers. Design., In this quantitative study data, including the demographic data and the problems of consultations, were gathered from callers during August 2003 to August 2005. Results., Of the 2445 callers, 935 made subsequent calls (38·2%). Approximately 25·25 calls were answered each day by two specially-trained staff according to an answering book. The mean consultation time for single first-call was 21·82 minutes and for one subsequent-call was 15·87 minutes. Perceived insufficient milk supply (30%) and returning to work (21%) were the top two reasons for a first-call. If callers' problems were about babies' sickness, perceived insufficient milk supply, babies' body weight gain and supplement issues, the accumulated consultation time would last longer. More than half (53·3%; 1303/2445) of callers made the first-call during the first month after birth, followed by 23·2% (566/2445) during babies' age between one and three months old. Conclusion., The telephone hotline service for breastfeeding mothers in Taiwan was well used during the two year period of this study. Many mothers used the service repeatedly for a variety of reasons. Relevance to clinical practice., Recommendations for breastfeeding support strategies for the professionals include category of common breastfeeding problems by different stages after birth. This study supports the establishment of free hotline services may encourage greater empowerment in breastfeeding mothers. Future studies are required to examine client satisfaction of the telephone service. [source] The Effect of Computer-Based Tests on Racial-Ethnic and Gender GroupsJOURNAL OF EDUCATIONAL MEASUREMENT, Issue 2 2002Ann Gallagher In this study data were examined from several national testing programs to determine whether the change from paper-based administration to computer-based tests (CBTs) influences group differences in performance. Performances by gender, racial, and ethnic groups on the Graduate Record Examination General Test, Graduate Management Admissions Test, SAT I: Reasoning Test, and Praxis: Professional Assessment for Beginning Teachers, were analyzed to determine whether the shift in testing format from paper-and-pencil tests to CBTs posed a disadvantage to any of these subgroups, beyond that already identified for paper-based tests. Although all differences were quite small, some consistent patterns were found for some racial-ethnic and gender groups. African-American examinees and, to a lesser degree, Hispanic examinees appear to benefit from the CBT format. On some tests, female examinees' performance was relatively lower on the CBT version. [source] Managerial Perceptions of Supply RiskJOURNAL OF SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT, Issue 1 2003George A. Zsidisin SUMMARY There has been a growing emphasis in business on outsourcing production activities and focusing on core competencies. The decision to outsource the production of goods and services, however, has inherent risk. The purposes of this article are to describe characteristics of inbound supply that affect managerial perceptions of supply risk and to create a classification of those supply risk sources. An analysis of case study data suggests that supply risk is perceived by the effect that purchased items and services have on corporate profitability, market factors, and supplier characteristics. By understanding the characteristics of supply risk, supply management professionals can implement strategies for better managing that risk. [source] Comparison of bovine in vivo bioavailability of two sulfamethazine oral boluses exhibiting different in vitro dissolution profilesJOURNAL OF VETERINARY PHARMACOLOGY & THERAPEUTICS, Issue 6 2006M. N. MARTINEZ The bolus (or oblet) is a dosage form that can be used for the oral administration of pharmaceutical compounds to ruminating species. Unlike traditional tablets, oral boluses may contain quantities of drug on the order of grams rather than milligrams. Due to its size, it is only recently that USP-like in vitro dissolution methods have been developed for this dosage form. However, whether or not these dissolution tests can predict product in vivo performance has yet to be determined. The importance of this issue is apparent when the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Center for Veterinary Medicine is faced with the decision of whether to require additional in vivo bioequivalence study data to support the approval of changes in product chemistry or manufacturing method. The current study was undertaken to determine whether an in vivo/in vitro correlation can be established for bovine sulfamethazine oral boluses and to acquire insight into the magnitude of changes in in vitro product performance that can occur before corresponding changes are seen in in vivo blood level profiles. Based upon the results of this investigation, it is concluded that marked changes in in vitro sulfamethazine bolus performance can be tolerated before resulting in altered in vivo blood level profiles. However, the data also suggest that rumenal absorption may occur for some compounds. Therefore the degree to which variation in product in vitro dissolution profiles can be tolerated may be compound specific. [source] Promoting Strategic Learning by Eighth-Grade Students Struggling in Mathematics: A Report of Three Case StudiesLEARNING DISABILITIES RESEARCH & PRACTICE, Issue 3 2005Deborah L. Butler Participants were three eighth-grade students enrolled in a learning assistance classroom who were of at least average intelligence but who were performing significantly below grade level in mathematics. These case studies document the processes by which these students were supported to self-regulate their learning in mathematics more effectively. We begin by outlining important instructional foci in mathematics education for intermediate or secondary students with learning disabilities, along with what research indicates are effective instructional processes. In that context, we introduce the theoretical principles underlying the instructional model used here,Strategic Content Learning (SCL). Based on analyses of case study data, we describe how SCL instruction was structured to promote strategic learning. Throughout the discussion, intervention processes are described in sufficient detail to be of use to practitioners. [source] Enhanced automated structure elucidation by inclusion of two-bond specific dataMAGNETIC RESONANCE IN CHEMISTRY, Issue 8 2010Steve F. Cheatham Abstract The availability of cryogenically cooled probes permits routine acquisition of data from low sensitivity pulse sequences such as inadequate and 1,1-adequate. We demonstrate that the use of cryo-probe generated 1,1-adequate data in conjunction with HMBC dramatically improves computer-assisted structure elucidation (CASE) both in terms of speed and accuracy of structure generation. In this study data were obtained on two dissimilar natural products and subjected to CASE analysis with and without the incorporation of two-bond specific data. Dramatic improvements in both structure calculation times and structure candidates were observed by the inclusion of the two-bond specific data. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] An introduction to medical statistics for health care professionals: Hypothesis tests and estimationMUSCULOSKELETAL CARE, Issue 2 2005Elaine Thomas PhD MSc BSc Lecturer in Biostatistics Abstract This article is the second in a series of three that will give health care professionals (HCPs) a sound introduction to medical statistics (Thomas, 2004). The objective of research is to find out about the population at large. However, it is generally not possible to study the whole of the population and research questions are addressed in an appropriate study sample. The next crucial step is then to use the information from the sample of individuals to make statements about the wider population of like individuals. This procedure of drawing conclusions about the population, based on study data, is known as inferential statistics. The findings from the study give us the best estimate of what is true for the relevant population, given the sample is representative of the population. It is important to consider how accurate this best estimate is, based on a single sample, when compared to the unknown population figure. Any difference between the observed sample result and the population characteristic is termed the sampling error. This article will cover the two main forms of statistical inference (hypothesis tests and estimation) along with issues that need to be addressed when considering the implications of the study results. Copyright © 2005 Whurr Publishers Ltd. [source] Uses of Kansas study data at state system and institutional levelsNEW DIRECTIONS FOR COMMUNITY COLLEGES, Issue 134 2006George E. Malo This chapter describes how the Kansas Study of Community College Instructional Costs and Productivity can be used in state, institutional, and regional accreditation contexts. [source] Using Comparative Cost DataNEW DIRECTIONS FOR INSTITUTIONAL RESEARCH, Issue 106 2000Michael F. Middaugh Cost study data have their greatest impact when viewed within the context of institutional peers. This chapter describes sources and strategies for the most effective use of comparative expenditure data. [source] Anonymous non-response analysis in the ABCD cohort study enabled by probabilistic record linkagePAEDIATRIC & PERINATAL EPIDEMIOLOGY, Issue 3 2009M. Tromp Summary Selective non-response is an important threat to study validity as it can lead to selection bias. The Amsterdam Born Children and their Development study (ABCD-study) is a large cohort study addressing the relationship between life style, psychological conditions, nutrition and sociodemographic background of pregnant women and their children's health. Possible selective non-response and selection bias in the ABCD-study were analysed using national perinatal registry data. ABCD-study data were linked with national perinatal registry data by probabilistic medical record linkage techniques. Differences in the prevalence of relevant risk factors (sociodemographic and care-related factors) and birth outcomes between respondents and non-respondents were tested using Pearson chi-squared tests. Selection bias (i.e. bias in the association between risk factors and specific outcomes) was analysed by regression analysis with and without adjustment for participation status. The ABCD non-respondents were significantly younger, more often non-western, and more often multiparae. Non-respondents entered antenatal care later, were more often under supervision of an obstetrician and had a spontaneous delivery more often. Non-response however, was not significantly associated with preterm birth (odds ratio 1.10; 95% CI 0.93, 1.29) or low birthweight (odds ratio 1.16; 95% CI 0.98, 1.37) after adjustment for sociodemographic risk factors. The associations found between risk factors and adverse pregnancy outcomes were similar for respondents and non-respondents. Anonymised record linkage of cohort study data with national registry data indicated that selective non-response was present in the ABCD-study, but selection bias was acceptably low and did not influence the main study questions. [source] (631) Chronic Pain Treatment Meta-Analyses: A Mathematical and Qualitative ReviewPAIN MEDICINE, Issue 2 2000Article first published online: 25 DEC 200 Authors: Fishbain DA, University of Miami Comprehensive Pain Center; Rosomoff H, University of Miami Comprehensive Pain Center; Cutler RB, University of Miami Comprehensive Pain Center; Steele-Rosomoff R, University of Miami Comprehensive Pain Center Aim of Investigation: To critically review chronic pain treatment meta-analyses according to defined criteria. Methods: An extensive literature search yielded 22 meta-analyses dealing with pain. The following inclusion criteria were applied to these studies: (1) nonsurgical pain treatment outcome only, including nerve blocks; (2) chronic pain treatment outcome only; (3) nonmalignant pain only and; (4) study data presenting an effect size which enabled the calculation of a confidence interval (CI). These inclusion criteria selected 16 studies from the original group. These remaining meta-analyses were then divided into 3 categories: (1) General pain facility treatment (n = 4); (2) Headache treatment (n = 5) and; (3) Specific treatment types, eg, manipulation, psychoeducational, antidepressant, etc. (n = 7). Within each meta-analysis the data was subdivided according to type of pain, treatment type and outcome variable. The CI was then calculated for each of these subdivisions within each meta-analysis. The quality of the 16 meta-analyses was also investigated according to 20 meta-analysis criteria previously presented in the literature. Results: (1) Overall, the pain facility treatment meta-analyses were remarkably consistent in demonstrating that pain facility treatment is effective for most treatment outcome variables. (2) Within pain facility treatments, biofeedback, cognitive therapy, operant conditioning, and package treatment were demonstrated to be efficacious. (3) Within the headache treatment meta-analyses, both relaxation/biofeedback and various medications were demonstrated to be efficacious. (4) Within the specific isolated treatments group, psychoeducation, antidepressants, capsaicin and spinal manipulation were found to have efficacy, for a number of treatment outcome variables. (5) The quality of the meta-analyses was variable but acceptable, according to the meta-analysis criteria utilized. Conclusions: Overall the results of the reviewed meta-analyses indicate that most treatments are effective for most pain patients but that some treatments appear to be more effective than others. [source] Potential bias caused by control selection in secondary data analysis: Nonaspirin nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and hemorrhagic stroke,PHARMACOEPIDEMIOLOGY AND DRUG SAFETY, Issue 6 2010Nam-Kyong Choi PhD Abstract Background This study investigated the potential for bias introduction when selecting controls for secondary analysis of case-control study data. Methods We used a data set previously collected for an acute brain bleeding analysis (ABBA) study, which was designed to investigate the risk of hemorrhagic stroke (HS) resulting from the use of phenylpropanolamine in Korea. Cases in that study had experienced an HS. Each HS case was matched with age- and gender-based hospital and community controls. Information was obtained on drug exposures including nonaspirin nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NANSAIDs). Odds ratios (OR) for, and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of, experiencing an HS were calculated using conditional logistic regressions for each control group. Results A total of 940 patients were matched with 1880 controls. The OR of HS occurring in NANSAID users was 1.18 (95%CI, 0.80,1.73) in community controls and 0.67 (95%CI, 0.45,0.98) in hospital controls. The majority of the hospital controls were selected from patients who had visited neurology, neurosurgery, or orthopedic departments. Conclusion The difference between OR values estimated from hospital and community controls could be the result of selection bias. The study data were originally obtained for a different purpose than this study, and NANSAID use was not considered when the hospital controls were selected. When performing secondary analyses, extra care is needed to note whether the results are consistent across control groups and whether there are indications of bias related to the selection of those controls. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Short-term reactogenicity and gender effect of anthrax vaccine: analysis of a 1967,1972 study and review of the 1955,2005 medical literature,,PHARMACOEPIDEMIOLOGY AND DRUG SAFETY, Issue 3 2007Michael M. McNeil MD Abstract Purpose In the 1960s, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) held the investigational new drug (IND) application for the anthrax vaccine and collected short-term safety data from approximately 16,000 doses administered to almost 7000 individuals. While some recent anthrax vaccine safety studies have suggested that women experience more injection site reactions (ISRs), to our knowledge the IND safety data were not previously examined for a gender-specific difference. Methods We identified and analyzed a subset of the IND study data representing a total of 1749 persons who received 3592 doses from 1967 to 1972. Original data collection forms were located and information extracted, including: vaccine recipient's name, age at vaccination, gender, dose number, date of vaccination, lot number, grading of ISR, presence and type of systemic reactions. Overall and gender-specific rates for adverse reactions to anthrax vaccine were calculated and we performed a multivariable analysis. Results We found an ISR was associated with 28% of anthrax vaccine doses; however, 87% of these were considered mild. Systemic reactions were uncommon (<1%) and most (70%) accompanied an ISR. Our dose-specific analysis by gender found women had at least twice the risk of having a vaccine reaction compared to men. Our age-adjusted relative risk for ISR in women compared to men was 2.78 (95%CI: 2.29, 3.38). Conclusions Our results for both overall and gender-specific reactogenicity are consistent with other anthrax safety studies. To date, possible implications of these gender differences observed for anthrax and other vaccines are unknown and deserve further study. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||