As method of evaluating PFS, a time-to-event (PFS curve comparison) approach was selected over a binary (progression free rate at one time point relative to accrual) to avoid arbitrary time point selection.
As the methods of evaluating dizziness, age distribution and survey period of each study vary, substantial differences in prevalence of dizziness may exist, and, subsequently, direct comparisons among the studies are difficult.
It is also essential that any changes or improvements should be recommended while keeping in mind the feasibility and costs of their implementation as well the resources and methods of evaluating their benefit or effects on patient safety.
The SF-36 questionnaire is one of the most common methods of evaluating QOL worldwide, as well as in Japan [ 12- 14].
This is an important result as almost all current methods of evaluating optical properties, including optical tomography methods, are based on either monitoring spatial/temporal distributions of light exiting the boundary of a scattering medium or monitoring one or a few discrete points inside the medium.
The use of thesis writing and thesis defense as two of the most frequent methods of evaluating EBP competence is revealing in that it represents a possible inadequacy in awareness of both common and distinctive features of research and EBP [E Gorgon, L Angeles, M Borras, K Colis, J Reyes, Unpublished research].
We call upon our research and clinical colleagues to consider additional methods of evaluating data, such as the Hill criteria.
However, they do not indicate the presence of practical decision support tools, such as methods for evaluating women's understanding of the information about the test and of options and outcomes, or values clarification methods, both of which are additional important elements of effective DAs [ 28, 29].
MRI may be considered after breast-conserving therapy (BCT) in three instances: first as an evaluation tool for residual disease after positive tumor margins, second as a method of evaluating suspected recurrence by either clinical examination, mammography or ultrasound and third as a screening tool in all patients who undergo BCT.
