scholarly journals Molecular mechanisms of Zika virus teratogenesis from animal studies: a systematic review protocol

2021 ◽  
Vol 10 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Gabriela Elis Wachholz ◽  
Julia do Amaral Gomes ◽  
Juliano André Boquett ◽  
Fernanda Sales Luiz Vianna ◽  
Lavínia Schuler-Faccini ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Animal Models ◽  
Zika Virus ◽  
Methodological Quality ◽  
Molecular Mechanisms ◽  
Grey Literature ◽  
Standard Form ◽  
Teratogenic Effect ◽  
Control Group

Abstract Background Due to the diversity of studies in animal models reporting that molecular mechanisms are involved in the teratogenic effect of the Zika virus (ZIKV), the objective of the present study is to evaluate the methodological quality of these studies, as well as to demonstrate which genes and which molecular pathways are affected by ZIKV in different animal models. Methods This search will be performed in four databases: PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Scopus, as well as in the grey literature. The studies selection process will be reported through the PRISMA Statement diagram model. All studies describing the molecular mechanisms possibly involved in the development of malformations caused by embryonic/fetal ZIKV exposure in animal models with an appropriate control group and methodology will be included (including, for instance, randomized and non-randomized studies). All animals used as experimental models for ZIKV teratogenesis may be included as long as exposure to the virus occurred during the embryonic/fetal period. From the selected studies, data will be extracted using a previously prepared standard form. Bias risk evaluation will be conducted following the SYRCLE’s Risk of Bias tool. All data obtained will be tabulated and organized by outcomes (morphological and molecular). Discussion With the proposed systematic review, we expect to present results about the methodological quality of the published studies with animal models that investigated the molecular mechanisms involved in the teratogenic effect of ZIKV, as well as to show the studies with greater reliability. Systematic review registration PROSPERO CRD42019157316

scholarly journals Psychometric properties of the Jefferson Scale of Empathy: a COSMIN systematic review protocol

2019 ◽  
Vol 8 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Brett Williams ◽  
Bronwyn Beovich
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Psychometric Properties ◽  
Methodological Quality ◽  
Grey Literature ◽  
Risk Of Bias ◽  
Measurement Properties ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Health Measurement ◽  
Jefferson Scale Of Empathy

Abstract Background Empathy is an important characteristic to possess for healthcare professionals. It has been found to improve communication between professionals and patients and to improve clinical health outcomes. The Jefferson Scale of Empathy (JSE) was developed to measure this quality and has been used extensively, and psychometrically appraised, with a variety of cohorts and in different cultural environments. However, no study has been undertaken to systematically examine the methodological quality of studies which have assessed psychometric factors of the JSE. This systematic review will examine the quality of published papers that have reported on psychometric factors of the JSE. Methods A systematic review of studies which report on the psychometric properties of the JSE will be conducted. We will use a predefined search strategy to identify studies meeting the following eligibility criteria: original data is reported on for at least one of the psychometric measurement properties described in the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) Risk of Bias checklist, examines the JSE in a healthcare cohort (using the student, physician or health profession versions of the JSE), and is published from January 2001 and in the English language. Conference abstracts, editorials and grey literature will be excluded. Six electronic databases (Medline, EMBASE, PsychInfo, PubMed, Web of Science and CINAHL) will be systematically searched for articles meeting these criteria and studies will be assessed for eligibility by two review authors. The methodological quality of included papers will be examined using the COSMIN Risk of Bias checklist. Discussion A narrative description of the findings will be presented along with summary tables. Recommendations for use of the JSE with various cohorts and circumstances will be offered which may inform future research in this field. Systematic review registration PROSPERO CRD42018111412

scholarly journals Methodological quality of public health guideline recommendations on vitamin D and calcium : a systematic review protocol

BMJ Open ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 9 (11) ◽  
pp. e031840 ◽  
Author(s):  
Zhaoli Dai ◽  
Cynthia M Kroeger ◽  
Sally McDonald ◽  
Matthew J Page ◽  
Joanne E McKenzie ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Systematic Review ◽  
Vitamin D ◽  
Bone Health ◽  
Methodological Quality ◽  
Guideline Development ◽  
Grey Literature ◽  
Dietary Guidelines ◽  
Published Data

IntroductionCurrent recommendations for vitamin D and calcium in dietary guidelines and bone health guidelines vary significantly among countries and professional organisations. It is unknown whether the methods used to develop these recommendations followed a rigourous process and how the differences in methods used may affect the recommended intakes of vitamin D and calcium. The objectives of this study are (1) collate and compare recommendations for vitamin D and calcium across guidelines, (2) appraise methodological quality of the guideline recommendations and (3) identify methodological factors that may affect the recommended intakes for vitamin D and calcium. This study will make a significant contribution to enhancing the methodological rigour in public health guidelines for vitamin D and calcium recommendations.Methods and analysesWe will conduct a systematic review to evaluate vitamin D and calcium recommendations for osteoporosis prevention in generally healthy middle-aged and older adults. Methodological assessment will be performed for each guideline against those outlined in the 2014 WHO handbook for guideline development. A systematic search strategy will be applied to locate food-based dietary guidelines and bone health guidelines indexed in various electronic databases, guideline repositories and grey literature from 1 January 2009 to 28 February 2019. Descriptive statistics will be used to summarise the data on intake recommendation and on proportion of guidelines consistent with the WHO criteria. Logistic regression, if feasible, will be used to assess the relationships between the methodological factors and the recommendation intakes.Ethics and disseminationEthics approval is not required as we will only extract published data or information from the published guidelines. Results of this review will be disseminated through conference presentations and peer-reviewed publications.PROSPERO registration numberCRD42019126452

scholarly journals Efficacy of Oral Ginger (Zingiber officinale) for Dysmenorrhea: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

2016 ◽  
Vol 2016 ◽  
pp. 1-10 ◽  
Author(s):  
Chen X. Chen ◽  
Bruce Barrett ◽  
Kristine L. Kwekkeboom
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Methodological Quality ◽  
Weighted Mean Difference ◽  
Meta Analysis ◽  
Grey Literature ◽  
Zingiber Officinale ◽  
Mean Difference ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Meta Analyses

This systematic review examines the efficacy of oral ginger for dysmenorrhea. Key biomedical databases and grey literature were searched. We included randomized controlled trials comparing oral ginger against placebo or active treatment in women with dysmenorrhea. Six trials were identified. Two authors independently reviewed the articles, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias. Discrepancies were resolved by consensus with a third reviewer. We completed a narrative synthesis of all six studies and exploratory meta-analyses of three studies comparing ginger with placebo and two studies comparing ginger with a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Ginger appeared more effective for reducing pain severity than placebo. The weighted mean difference on a 10 cm visual analogue scale was 1.55 cm (favoring ginger) (95% CI 0.68 to 2.43). No significant difference was found between ginger and mefenamic acid (an NSAID). The standardized mean difference was 0 (95% CI −0.40 to 0.41). Available data suggest that oral ginger could be an effective treatment for menstrual pain in dysmenorrhea. Findings, however, need to be interpreted with caution because of the small number of studies, poor methodological quality of the studies, and high heterogeneity across trials. The review highlights the need for future trials with high methodological quality.

scholarly journals Abnormalities of foot and ankle alignment in individuals with chronic ankle instability: a systematic review

2021 ◽  
Vol 22 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Takumi Kobayashi ◽  
Yuta Koshino ◽  
Takahiro Miki
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Internal Rotation ◽  
Methodological Quality ◽  
Ankle Instability ◽  
Chronic Ankle Instability ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Foot And Ankle ◽  
Anterior Displacement ◽  
Foot Posture

Abstract Background To prevent recurrent ankle sprain, it is important to clarify the pathology of chronic ankle instability (CAI). An association has been reported between CAI and abnormalities of foot posture and ankle alignment. There is no consensus on the types of these abnormalities that occur in individuals with CAI. The objective of this systematic review is to clarify the relevance of abnormality of foot posture and ankle alignment for CAI. Methods A systematic computerized literature search was performed of the PubMed, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Register of Clinical Trials databases. The selected studies either compared CAI patients with a control group or CAI ankles with contralateral healthy ankles and specifically reported foot posture and alignment of the ankle in the outcomes. They were written in English and published prior to June 2021. The methodological quality of the included studies was evaluated using a 16-question index. Data were extracted independently by two reviewers, and the certainty of evidence was assessed using GRADE approach. Results Sixteen studies including 872 patients of high to low methodological quality were included. These showed there was significant anterior displacement and internal rotation of the talus in CAI ankles (low evidence), but there was no consensus on fibular alignment or foot posture. Conclusions This review showed there was significant anterior displacement and internal rotation of the talus in CAI ankles but found no consensus on the characteristics of fibular and foot alignment. Further investigations are required to clarify the characteristic foot and ankle malalignment in CAI to facilitate the development of efficient interventions.

scholarly journals Protocol for a Systematic Review Exploring the Psychometric Properties of Health and Wellbeing Measures Used With Adolescents Experiencing Intellectual Disabilities.

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Stephanie Maguire ◽  
Jenny Davison ◽  
Marian McLaughlin ◽  
Victoria Simms
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Intellectual Disabilities ◽  
Psychometric Properties ◽  
Methodological Quality ◽  
Service Providers ◽  
Grey Literature ◽  
Intervention Development ◽  
Future Health ◽  
Health And Wellbeing

Abstract Background Whilst there are studies that have systematically reviewed the psychometric properties of Quality-of-Life measures for children and young people experiencing intellectual disabilities, these narrowly focus on disease or health conditions. The objective of this planned systematic review is therefore to collate, summarise and critically appraise the psychometric properties of health and wellbeing measures used with adolescents (aged 11–16) with an intellectual disability. Methods We designed and registered a study protocol for a systematic review of studies which explores the psychometric properties of health and wellbeing measures used with adolescents experiencing intellectual disabilities. Electronic databases including PsycINFO, CINAHL, MEDLINE and ERIC will be searched using predefined search terms to identify relevant studies. Quantitative and mixed-methods studies, and studies published in peer-reviewed journals or grey literature will be included. Review papers, editorials and case studies will be excluded. Eligible studies should identify self and/or proxy reported health and wellbeing measures which assess health and wellbeing among adolescents with intellectual disabilities. The methodological quality of the included studies will be assessed by applying the COSMIN Risk of Bias Checklist. The quality of the evidence (i.e., the total body of evidence used for the overall ratings on each psychometric property of an instrument) will be evaluated in accordance with the GRADE guidelines. Discussion This systematic review will be among the first to systematically explore the psychometric properties of health and wellbeing measures used with adolescents experiencing intellectual disabilities. By providing evidence-based knowledge about measures being used in health and wellbeing research amongst this population, and more importantly how reliable and valid these measures are, the most suitable for use will be identified. Our findings will be of potential interest to clinicians, researchers and service providers who need information about the methodological quality and the characteristics of measures to make informed decisions about the most reliable and valid tool for a specific purpose. The findings from this study will contribute to the knowledge surrounding available and appropriate measures to use for measuring the health and wellbeing of adolescents with intellectual disabilities, which are necessary to inform intervention development and future health policy. Systematic Review Registration The protocol has been registered at the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO). The registration number is: CRD42021231697.

scholarly journals DANCE AND MOVEMENT THERAPY: A MIXED-METHODS SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

2020 ◽  
Vol 7 ◽  
pp. 215
Author(s):  
Marta Zande ◽  
Sanita Šuriņa
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Mixed Methods ◽  
Social Interactions ◽  
Methodological Quality ◽  
Meta Analysis ◽  
Movement Therapy ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Emotional Component ◽  
Therapy Sessions

Changes caused by aging manifest themselves in physical, cognitive, emotional and social areas. Dance and movement therapy ensures that it is possible to work with a client in all four areas – promote physical activity, stimulate cognitive functions, activate emotional component and encourage social interactions. The aim of this research was to create a mixed methods systematic review on dance and movement therapy (DMT) for seniors, to assess the methodological quality of included studies, analyse structural and content indicators of applied DMT interventions, their effect and experience of seniors gained during dance and movement therapy sessions. Findings suggest that the methodological quality of studies varies from high to low. Data acquired by meta-analysis indicates a statistically significant reduction of depression scores for research (DMT) group in comparison to control group (95% CI: -3.74 to -2.52, total effect Z = 10.05 (P < 0.00001)). Qualitative data shows changes in all four areas as well as provides dance and movement therapists with a framework for different client groups such as individuals with depression, Parkinson’s disease, etc. Further research on seniors’ experiences is needed.  

scholarly journals Exercise Interventions for Improving Flexibility in People with Multiple Sclerosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Medicina ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 55 (11) ◽  
pp. 726
Author(s):  
Torres-Pareja ◽  
Sánchez-Lastra ◽  
Iglesias ◽  
Suárez-Iglesias ◽  
Mendoza ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Sclerosis ◽  
Systematic Review ◽  
Range Of Motion ◽  
Methodological Quality ◽  
Assessment Tool ◽  
Meta Analysis ◽  
Preliminary Evidence ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Exercise Interventions

Background and objectives: People with multiple sclerosis (MS) often experience limitations in joint range of motion, which is linked to spasticity and continued inactivity. Low flexibility levels in this population have been linked to postural problems and muscular pain. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to conduct a systematic review and a meta-analysis aimed at identifying the characteristics and methodological quality of investigations studying the effects of exercise interventions on the flexibility levels of people with MS. Materials and Methods: Three electronic databases (MEDLINE/PubMed, SPORTDiscus and Scopus) were systematically searched up to May 2019 for intervention studies focused on the effects of exercise on the flexibility levels of people with MS. A meta-analysis, including randomized controlled trials (RCT), which reported information regarding the effects of exercise on flexibility, was also conducted. The methodological quality of included studies was assessed using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database, and the Quality Assessment Tool for Before–After Studies, with no control group. The quality of the information reported, regarding the programs conducted, was assessed by means of the Consensus on Exercise Reporting Template (CERT) scale. Results: Seven studies, four RCTs and three uncontrolled investigations were finally selected. The methodological quality of the RCTs was considered “poor” in one study, and “good” and “excellent” in two studies and one investigation, respectively. The three uncontrolled studies showed a methodological quality between “fair” and “poor”. Following the CERT scale, four studies were graded as “high” and three as “low”. Findings from the meta-analysis indicated no significant effects on hamstring flexibility, or the range of motion in the hips, knees or ankles. Conclusions: There is preliminary evidence from individual studies which indicates that people with MS can improve their lower limb flexibility following participation in physical exercise programs, but the meta-analysis did not confirm these findings.

How Does Mindfulness Affect Cognition? A Reflection on Confounding Issues Surrounding Mindfulness-based Intervention Research Targeting Cognitive Outcomes

2018 ◽  
Author(s):  
David R Vago ◽  
Resh Gupta ◽  
Sara Lazar
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Health Outcomes ◽  
Cognitive Functioning ◽  
Cognitive Processes ◽  
Methodological Quality ◽  
Cognitive Outcomes ◽  
Controlled Trials ◽  
Randomized Controlled ◽  
Existing Data

One potential pathway by which mindfulness-based meditation improves health outcomes is through changes in cognitive functioning. A systematic review of randomized controlled trials of mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) was conducted with a focus on assessing the state of the evidence for effects on cognitive processes and associated assays. Here, we comment on confounding issues surrounding the reporting of these and related findings, including 1) criteria that appropriately define an MBI; 2) limitations of assays used to measure cognition; and 3) methodological quality of MBI trials and reporting of findings. Because these issues contribute to potentially distorted interpretations of existing data, we offer constructive means for interpretation and recommendations for moving the field of mindfulness research forward regarding the effects on cognition.

scholarly journals Barriers to Incident Reporting among Nurses: A Qualitative Systematic Review

2021 ◽  
pp. 019394592199944
Author(s):  
Moataz Mohamed Maamoun Hamed ◽  
Stathis Konstantinidis
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Methodological Quality ◽  
Incident Reporting ◽  
Negative Consequences ◽  
Incident Reporting Systems ◽  
Qualitative Systematic Review ◽  
Blame Culture ◽  
Critical Appraisal Skills ◽  
Definition Of

Incident reporting in health care prevents error recurrence, ultimately improving patient safety. A qualitative systematic review was conducted, aiming to identify barriers to incident reporting among nurses. Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for qualitative systematic reviews was followed, with data extracted using JBI QARI tools, and selected studies assessed for methodological quality using Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP). A meta-aggregation synthesis was carried out, and confidence in findings was assessed using GRADE ConQual. A total of 921 records were identified, but only five studies were included. The overall methodological quality of these studies was good and GRADE ConQual assessment score was “moderate.” Fear of negative consequences was the most cited barrier to nursing incident reporting. Barriers also included inadequate incident reporting systems and lack of interdisciplinary and interdepartmental cooperation. Lack of nurses’ necessary training made it more difficult to understand the importance of incident reporting and the definition of error. Lack of effective feedback and motivation and a pervasive blame culture were also identified.

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