The testing of the methods, dental examination, administration of the questionnaires and preparation of the examiners were carried out in a pilot study involving 76 children who did not participate in the main study.
The pre-treatment evaluation consisted of a full history and physical examination, administration of Brief Pain Inventory (BPI), record of analgesic consumption within the previous 24 h and provision of the patient´s diary with oral and written instructions on how to fill it on a daily basis during treatment and 10 days after termination of RT.
A detailed Observer Manual with protocols for obtaining written informed consent, digital photography, clinical interview and examination, administration of the brief self-complete questionnaire, anthropometric measurement, plain radiography will be provided to all members of the CAS K) team for reference during the entire study period.
Student welfare, and academics in general is headed by the respective deans; examinations by the controller of examinations; administration by the director of administration, while each of the academic departments, as well as research and placement departments are headed by the respective heads of departments.
The limitation is due to the need for a sequential supply of two radioactive compounds, namely, 15O2 and C15O2, within a short interval, including radio-synthesis, quality control, and purity examination before administration.
Physical examination and administration of the neuropsychological tests were performed at the patients' homes.
Patients had a daily evaluation including: clinical and obstetric examination, drug administration and recording of subjective and objective side effects on a case record form.
Learning from the merits of previous computer systems, our computer screening algorithm included positive microbiological examination, antibiotic administration, serological and molecular testing (e.g. C-reactive protein, calcitonin), imaging reports, fever, invasive device use, inpatients transfer data, and other variables.
Two cognitive batteries were used: a specially devised Short Cognitive Examination (SCE) which could be administered even to patients with moderately advanced disease in their homes, and a comprehensive neuropsychological examination for administration only to mildly affected patients.
The professional suspicious NIs screening strategy was based upon specific diagnostic criteria for certain infection sites; these took into consideration positive microbiological examinations, antibiotic administration, serological and molecular testing (e.g. C-reactive protein, calcitonin), positive imaging reports, temperature, invasive device use, and inpatient transfer data.
Examinations and administration of the questionnaires were carried out by four experienced physical therapists.
