All efficacy input parameters are presented in Table 1, whereas the transition probabilities from the decision tree to the Markov model and related calculations are shown in Table 2.
Pandemic vaccination, use of masks, prophylaxis, antiviral therapy and isolation were each characterized by three input parameters: theoretical efficacy, proportion of target population to which the measure is applied, and time lag to introduction (counted from the first case).
Fluctuations in SMN mRNA levels may be amplified by fluctuations in transcript levels produced by endogenous controls used normalize for the amount of input template and efficacy of RT-PCR.
Multivariate threshold analysis was performed using the Goal Seek simulation (Palisade© @Risk add-in tool to Microsoft Excel©) to estimate at what level key input variables (IPTi efficacy, CFR, malaria incidence and cost per dose of IPTi delivered) cease to be highly cost effective (USD36).
The model input variables are efficacy (overall survival, progression-free survival and tumour response), AE rates and AE discontinuations.
Three alternative scenarios related to the efficacy input data were tested as part of the sensitivity analyses: Scenario 1: extension of effect to 6 months.
Because there are two PHN endpoints of interest (1 and 3-months definition), the direct PHN vaccine efficacy input parameter was adjusted in the model in order to best reflect the efficacy in reducing the incidence of PHN.
To conclude, it is worth noting that the developed model is a dynamic instrument that can be adapted to various health care settings, in that it can be run using different input data (ie, efficacy, cost, and epidemiological).
As a result, the PHN vaccine efficacy input parameter used in the model overestimated PHN using a 1-month definition by 0.3 percentage points (59.2% compared to the trial reported 58.9% [ 6, 30]) and underestimated PHN using a 3-month definition by 0.3 percentage points (66.2% instead of the trial reported 66.5% [ 6, 30]).
