New results on optimal conditional error functions for adaptive two-stage designs.

Unblinded interim analyses in clinical trials with adaptive designs are gaining increasing popularity. Here, the type I error rate is controlled by defining an appropriate conditional error function. Since various approaches to the selection of the conditional error function exist, the question of an optimal choice arises.

Semi-automated title-abstract screening using natural language processing and machine learning.

Background: Title-abstract screening in the preparation of a systematic review is a time-consuming task. Modern techniques of natural language processing and machine learning might allow partly automatization of title-abstract screening. In particular, clear guidance on how to proceed with these techniques in practice is of high relevance.

Two-stage group-sequential designs with delayed responses - what is the point of applying corresponding methods?

Background: In group-sequential designs, it is typically assumed that there is no time gap between patient enrollment and outcome measurement in clinical trials. However, in practice, there is usually a lag between the two time points. This can affect the statistical analysis of the data, especially in trials with interim analyses.

Association of intraprocedural near admission-level blood pressure with functional outcome in stroke patients treated with mechanical thrombectomy.

Background: Optimal blood pressure management during endovascular stroke treatment is not certain. We hypothesized that time or proportion of intraprocedural systolic blood pressure spent in a range around admission blood pressure might be associated with better clinical outcome.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective observational study at a single center at a university hospital, which included patients from August 2018 to September 2020 suffering from acute ischemic stroke with anterior circulation vessel occlusion and treated with endovascular therapy.