Quantitative synthesis in systematic reviews
Article Abstract:
When the results of several clinical studies are combined and summarized, inferences about treatment risks and benefits may be amplified. Systematic and quantitative methods must be used in the synthesis of such a meta-analysis to ensure that the conclusions accurately reflect the combined statistics. The selection of sound and accurate data and the prudent use of the correct statistical methods in the examination of the information is fundamental to the validity of such an analysis. Exploration of the differences, as well as the similarities, observed between studies can provide important insights regarding a treatment's efficacy.
Publication Name: Annals of Internal Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0003-4819
Year: 1997
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Selecting and appraising studies for a systematic review
Article Abstract:
There are several steps that can be followed when selecting and analyzing studies for a meta-analysis. The topic to be addressed needs to be determined. Reviewers need to determine what types of patient groups are important and whether they want to review only clinical trials or case-control and observational studies. They should develop a selection form that contains the desired characteristics, which can be checked off against each article. They should arrange for two or more people to analyze each study selected. The authors of a study can be contacted for clarification.
Publication Name: Annals of Internal Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0003-4819
Year: 1997
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Formulating questions and locating primary studies for inclusion in systematic reviews
Article Abstract:
It may be advisable for researchers to carefully select the focus of their inquiry when designing a review that will involve compiling data from a number of individual studies. A well thought out and balanced line of inquiry tends to yield more useful results. Researchers should include in their systematic review as many appropriate studies as can be identified. Published studies, unpublished studies, or works-in-progress can be identified through available databases, personal contacts with researchers, studies' bibliographies, or conference publications.
Publication Name: Annals of Internal Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0003-4819
Year: 1997
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
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