The criteria could be tested empirically, for example, by comparing results of moderator subgroup analysis based on published effect sizes following the criteria to results of moderator subgroup analysis obtained through individual patient data meta-analysis of the same papers.
The side-effects checklist is based on published side effects of baclofen in the treatment of Multiple Sclerosis [ 42].
The descriptions of the hepatitis C health states were developed based on the findings of our previous study of symptoms in patients with HCV [ 3] and on a consensus of a group of hepatologists experienced in managing patients with hepatitis C. The description of the side effects of treatment was based on published accounts of the adverse effects of interferon and ribavirin [ 7- 9, 15].
For example, we chose a high daily dose of vitamin D3 based on published calculations on metabolism and effects on immunity.
One group extended a model that explored the effects of preconditioning on the responses of Toll-like receptors to lipopolysaccharides (Riviere et al., 2009) by using a different parameter value for the maximal expression of the Toll-like receptors, based on published research that described the effect of overexpression of Toll-like receptors (Bihl et al., 2003).
Meta-analyses based on published data tend to overestimate treatment effects compared with individual patient data analyses.
This high dose was chosen based on published data that demonstrate significant metabolic effects in rodents, including RER, blood glucose, and insulin.
Based on published literature, DHP-PMX appears to effectively reduce endotoxin levels and have some positive effects on blood pressure, use of vasoactive agents, gas exchange, and mortality.
The effect estimates are based on published health related quality-of-life estimates for the health states 'Blind' and 'Visual Impaired'.
Intervention effects and resource inputs based on published reports, expert opinion, and the WHO-CHOICE database.
