anurajms/meta_analysis huggingface dataset:
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Exercise training for adults undergoing maintenance dialysis
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐RCTs of any structured exercise programs of eight weeks or more in adults undergoing maintenance dialysis compared to no exercise or sham exercise.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Calcium supplementation for prevention of primary hypertension
We selected trials that randomised normotensive people to dietary calcium interventions such as supplementation or food fortification versus placebo or control. We excluded quasi‐random designs. The primary outcomes were hypertension (defined as blood pressure ≥ 140/90 mmHg) and blood pressure measures.
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High versus low‐added sugar consumption for the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs), including cross‐over trials, that compared different levels of added sugar intake. Exclusion criteria were: participants aged below 18 years; diabetes mellitus (type 1 and 2); and previous CVD. Primary outcomes were incident cardiovascular events (coronary, carotid, cerebral and peripheral arterial disease) and all‐cause mortality. Secondary outcomes were changes in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, LDL‐cholesterol, HDL‐cholesterol, triglycerides, fasting plasma glucose and adverse events (gastrointestinal symptoms and impaired dental health).
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Dietary advice with or without oral nutritional supplements for disease‐related malnutrition in adults
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of DA with/without ONS in adults with disease‐related malnutrition in any healthcare setting compared with no advice, ONS or DA alone.
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Effect of periodontal treatments on blood pressure
RCTs and quasi‐RCTs aiming to detect the effect of periodontal treatment on BP were eligible. Participants should have been diagnosed with chronic periodontitis and hypertension (or no hypertension if the study explored the preventive effect of periodontal treatment). Participants in the intervention group should have undergone subgingival scaling and root planing (SRP) and any other type of periodontal treatments, compared with either no periodontal treatment or alternative periodontal treatment in the control group.
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Mindfulness‐based psychological interventions for improving mental well‐being in medical students and junior doctors
We included randomised controlled trials of mindfulness that involved medical students of any year level and junior doctors in postgraduate years one, two or three. We included any psychological intervention with a primary focus on teaching the fundamentals of mindfulness as a preventative intervention. Our primary outcomes were anxiety and depression, and our secondary outcomes included stress, burnout, academic performance, suicidal ideation and quality of life.
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Roselle for hypertension in adults
We sought RCTs evaluating the use of any forms of Roselle with placebo or no treatment in adults with hypertension. Our primary outcome was change in trough and/or peak systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP, DBP). Secondary outcomes were withdrawals due to adverse effects, change in pulse pressure, and change in heart rate.
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Omega‐3 fatty acids for depression in adults
We included studies in the review if they: used a randomised controlled trial design; provided n‐3PUFAs as an intervention; used a comparator; measured depressive symptomology as an outcome; and were conducted in adults with MDD. Primary outcomes were depressive symptomology (continuous data collected using a validated rating scale) and adverse events. Secondary outcomes were depressive symptomology (dichotomous data on remission and response), quality of life, and non‐completion of studies.
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Humour‐based interventions for people with schizophrenia
We included all randomised controlled trials comparing humour‐based interventions with active controls, other psychological interventions, or standard care for people with schizophrenia. We excluded studies fulfilling our prespecified selection criteria but without useable data from further quantitative synthesis.
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Palliative care interventions in advanced dementia
We searched for randomised (RCTs) and non‐randomised controlled trials (nRCTs), controlled before‐and‐after studies and interrupted time series studies evaluating the impact of palliative care interventions for adults with advanced dementia of any type. Participants could be people with advanced dementia, their family members, clinicians or paid care staff. We included clinical interventions and non‐clinical interventions. Comparators were usual care or another palliative care intervention. We did not exclude studies based on outcomes measured.
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Cannabinoids for the treatment of dementia
We included all randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of cannabinoids for the treatment of dementia. We included participants of any age and of either sex with diagnosed dementia of any subtype, or with unspecified dementia of any severity, from any setting. We considered studies of cannabinoids administered by any route, at any dose, for any duration, compared with placebo, no treatment, or any active control intervention.
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Chinese herbal medicine for subfertile women with polycystic ovarian syndrome
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing CHM versus placebo, no treatment or conventional (western) therapies for the treatment of subfertile women with PCOS.
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Ginseng for erectile dysfunction
We included randomized or quasi‐randomized controlled trials that evaluated the use of any type of ginseng as a treatment for erectile dysfunction compared to placebo or conventional treatment.
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Probiotics for preventing gestational diabetes
Randomised and cluster‐randomised trials comparing the use of probiotic supplementation with either placebo or diet for the prevention of the development of GDM. Cluster‐randomised trials were eligible for inclusion but none were identified. Quasi‐randomised and cross‐over design studies were not eligible for inclusion in this review. Studies presented only as abstracts with no subsequent full report of study results were only included if study authors confirmed that data in the abstract came from the final analysis. Otherwise, the abstract was left awaiting classification.
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Vegan dietary pattern for the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular diseases
We selected randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in healthy adults and adults at high risk of CVD (primary prevention) and those with established CVD (secondary prevention). A vegan dietary pattern excludes meat, fish, eggs, dairy and honey; the intervention could be dietary advice, provision of relevant foods, or both. The comparison group received either no intervention, minimal intervention, or another dietary intervention. Outcomes included clinical events and CVD risk factors. We included only studies with follow‐up periods of 12 weeks or more, defined as the intervention period plus post‐intervention follow‐up.
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Coenzyme Q10 for heart failure
We included randomised controlled trials of either parallel or cross‐over design that assessed the beneficial and harmful effects of coenzyme Q10 in people with heart failure. When we identified cross‐over studies, we considered data only from the first phase.
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Intermittent fasting for the prevention of cardiovascular disease
We included randomised controlled trials comparing IF to ad libitum feeding (eating at any time with no specific caloric restriction) or continuous energy restriction (CER). Participants had to be over the age of 18 and included those with and without cardiometabolic risk factors. Intermittent fasting was categorised into alternate‐day fasting, modified alternate‐day fasting, periodic fasting and time‐restricted feeding.
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Souvenaid for Alzheimer's disease
We included randomised, placebo‐controlled trials which evaluated Souvenaid in people diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) due to AD (also termed prodromal AD) or with dementia due to AD, and with a treatment duration of at least 16 weeks.
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Effects of low sodium diet versus high sodium diet on blood pressure, renin, aldosterone, catecholamines, cholesterol, and triglyceride
Studies randomizing persons to low‐sodium and high‐sodium diets were included if they evaluated at least one of the outcome parameters (BP, renin, aldosterone, noradrenalin, adrenalin, cholesterol, high‐density lipoprotein, low‐density lipoprotein and triglyceride,.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Acupuncture for chronic nonspecific low back pain
We included only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of acupuncture for chronic nonspecific LBP in adults. We excluded RCTs that investigated LBP with a specific etiology. We included trials comparing acupuncture with sham intervention, no treatment, and usual care. The primary outcomes were pain, back‐specific functional status, and quality of life; the secondary outcomes were pain‐related disability, global assessment, or adverse events.
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Melatonin for preoperative and postoperative anxiety in adults
We included randomized, placebo‐controlled or standard treatment‐controlled (or both) studies that evaluated the effects of preoperatively administered melatonin on preoperative or postoperative anxiety. We included adult patients of both sexes (15 to 90 years of age) undergoing any kind of surgical procedure for which it was necessary to use general, regional, or topical anaesthesia.
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Iron chelators for acute stroke
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of iron chelators versus no iron chelators or placebo for the treatment of acute stroke, including subarachnoid haemorrhage.
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Pharmacotherapies for sleep disturbances in dementia
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared a drug with placebo, and that had the primary aim of improving sleep in people with dementia who had an identified sleep disturbance at baseline.
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Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) for improving activities of daily living, and physical and cognitive functioning, in people after stroke
This is the update of an existing review. In the previous version of this review, we focused on the effects of tDCS on ADL and function. In this update, we broadened our inclusion criteria to compare any kind of active tDCS for improving ADL, function, muscle strength and cognitive abilities (including spatial neglect) versus any kind of placebo or control intervention.
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Phlebotonics for venous insufficiency
We included randomised, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the efficacy of phlebotonics (rutosides, hidrosmine, diosmine, calcium dobesilate, chromocarbe, Centella asiatica, disodium flavodate, French maritime pine bark extract, grape seed extract and aminaftone) in patients with CVI at any stage of the disease.
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Low protein diets for non‐diabetic adults with chronic kidney disease
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi RCTs in which adults with non‐diabetic CKD (stages 3 to 5) not on dialysis were randomised to receive a very low protein intake (0.3 to 0.4 g/kg/day) compared with a low protein intake (0.5 to 0.6 g/kg/day) or a low protein intake compared with a normal protein intake (≥ 0.8 g/kg/day) for 12 months or more.
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Magnesium for skeletal muscle cramps
Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of magnesium supplementation (in any form) to prevent skeletal muscle cramps in any patient group (i.e. all clinical presentations of cramp). We considered comparisons of magnesium with no treatment, placebo control, or other therapy.
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Antioxidants for female subfertility
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared any type, dose or combination of oral antioxidant supplement with placebo, no treatment or treatment with another antioxidant, among women attending a reproductive clinic. We excluded trials comparing antioxidants with fertility drugs alone and trials that only included fertile women attending a fertility clinic because of male partner infertility.
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Reduction in saturated fat intake for cardiovascular disease
Included trials fulfilled the following criteria: 1) randomised; 2) intention to reduce saturated fat intake OR intention to alter dietary fats and achieving a reduction in saturated fat; 3) compared with higher saturated fat intake or usual diet; 4) not multifactorial; 5) in adult humans with or without cardiovascular disease (but not acutely ill, pregnant or breastfeeding); 6) intervention duration at least 24 months; 7) mortality or cardiovascular morbidity data available.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Aromatherapy for dementia
We included randomised controlled trials which compared fragrance from plants in an intervention defined as aromatherapy for people with dementia with placebo aromatherapy or with treatment as usual. All doses, frequencies and fragrances of aromatherapy were considered. Participants in the included studies had a diagnosis of dementia of any subtype and severity.
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Therapeutic ultrasound for chronic low back pain
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) on therapeutic ultrasound for chronic non‐specific LBP. We compared ultrasound (either alone or in combination with another treatment) with placebo or other interventions for chronic LBP.
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Tea tree oil for Demodex blepharitis
We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared treatment with tea tree oil (or its components) versus another treatment or no treatment for people with Demodex blepharitis.
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Dietary interventions for multiple sclerosis‐related outcomes
We included any randomized controlled trial (RCT) or controlled clinical trial (CCT) examining the effect of a dietary intervention versus placebo or another intervention among participants with MS on MS‐related outcomes, including relapses, disability progression, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) measures.
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Chelation therapy for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease
We included studies if they were randomised controlled trials of EDTA chelation therapy versus placebo or no treatment in participants with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. The main outcome measures we considered include all‐cause or cause‐specific mortality, non‐fatal cardiovascular events, direct or indirect measurement of disease severity, and subjective measures of improvement or adverse events.
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Probiotics for induction of remission in ulcerative colitis
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the effectiveness of probiotics compared to standard treatments or placebo in the induction of remission of active ulcerative colitis. We considered both adults and children, with studies reporting outcomes of clinical, endoscopic, histologic or surgical remission as defined by study authors
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Omega‐3 fatty acids for the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that lasted at least 12 months and compared supplementation or advice to increase LCn3 or ALA intake, or both, versus usual or lower intake.
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Electrical stimulation for treating pressure ulcers
We included published and unpublished randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing ES (plus standard care) with sham/no ES (plus standard care) for treating pressure ulcers.
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Omega‐3 and omega‐6 polyunsaturated fatty acids for dry eye disease
We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving dry eye participants, in which omega‐3 and/or omega‐6 supplements were compared with a placebo/control supplement, artificial tears, or no treatment. We included head‐to‐head trials comparing different forms or doses of PUFAs.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Psychosocial interventions for preventing and treating depression in dialysis patients
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐RCTs of psychosocial interventions for prevention and treatment of depression among adults treated with long‐term dialysis. We assessed effects of interventions on changes in mental state (depression, anxiety, cognition), suicide, health‐related quality of life (HRQoL), withdrawal from dialysis treatment, withdrawal from intervention, death (any cause), hospitalisation and adverse events.
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Treatment and prevention of pouchitis after ileal pouch‐anal anastomosis for chronic ulcerative colitis
Randomized controlled trials of prevention or treatment of acute or chronic pouchitis in adults who underwent IPAA for UC were considered for inclusion.
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Animal‐assisted therapy for dementia
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs), cluster‐randomised trials, and randomised cross‐over trials that compared AAT versus no AAT, AAT using live animals versus alternatives such as robots or toys, or AAT versus any other active intervention.
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Biofeedback for treatment of irritable bowel syndrome
We judged randomized controlled trials to be eligible for inclusion if they met the Association for Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback definition of biofeedback, and if they compared a biofeedback intervention to an active, sham, or no‐treatment control for the management of IBS.
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Xiao Chai Hu Tang, a herbal medicine, for chronic hepatitis B
We included randomised clinical trials, irrespective of publication status, language, and blinding, comparing Xiao Chai Hu Tang formula versus no intervention or placebo in people with chronic hepatitis B. We included participants of any sex and age, diagnosed with chronic hepatitis B according to guidelines or as defined by the trialists. We allowed co‐interventions when the co‐interventions were administered equally to all the intervention groups.
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Interventions for pityriasis rosea
Randomised controlled trials of interventions in pityriasis rosea. Treatment could be given in a single therapy or in combination. Eligible comparators were no treatment, placebo, vehicle only, another active compound, or placebo radiation treatment.
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Acupuncture for chronic hepatitis B
We included randomised clinical trials, irrespective of publication status, language, and blinding, comparing acupuncture versus no intervention or sham acupuncture in people with chronic hepatitis B. We included participants of any sex and age, diagnosed with chronic hepatitis B as defined by the trialists or according to guidelines. We allowed co‐interventions when the co‐interventions were administered equally to all intervention groups.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Acupuncture for polycystic ovarian syndrome
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that studied the efficacy of acupuncture treatment for oligo/anovulatory women with PCOS. We excluded quasi‐ or pseudo‐RCTs.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Melatonin and agomelatine for preventing seasonal affective disorder
To examine efficacy, we included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) on adults with a history of winter‐type SAD who were free of symptoms at the beginning of the study. For adverse events, we intended also to include non‐randomised studies. We planned to include studies that compared agomelatine versus melatonin, or agomelatine or melatonin versus placebo, any second‐generation antidepressant, light therapy, psychological therapies or lifestyle changes. We also intended to compare melatonin or agomelatine in combination with any of the comparator interventions mentioned above versus the same comparator intervention as monotherapy.
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Acetyl‐L‐carnitine for the treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathy
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐RCTs of ALC compared with placebo, other therapy, or no intervention in the treatment of DPN. Participants could be of any sex and age, and have type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus, of any severity, with painful or painless DPN. We accepted any definition of minimum criteria for DPN, in accordance with the Toronto Consensus. We imposed no language restriction.Pain was the primary outcome, measured as the proportion of participants with at least 30% (moderate) or 50% (substantial) decrease in pain over baseline, or as the score on a visual analogue scale (VAS) or Likert scale for pain.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) for improving aphasia in adults with aphasia after stroke
We included only randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and randomised controlled cross‐over trials (from which we only analysed the first period as a parallel group design) comparing tDCS versus control in adults with aphasia due to stroke.
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Yoga as part of a package of care versus non‐standard care for schizophrenia
All randomised controlled trials (RCTs) including people with schizophrenia comparing yoga as part of a package of care with non‐standard care.
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Radix Sophorae flavescentis versus no intervention or placebo for chronic hepatitis B
We included randomised clinical trials, irrespective of publication status, language, or blinding, comparing Radix Sophorae flavescentis versus no intervention or placebo in people with chronic hepatitis B. We excluded polyherbal blends containing Radix Sophorae flavescentis. We allowed co‐interventions when the co‐interventions were administered equally to all intervention groups.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Herbal medicinal products or preparations for neuropathic pain
We included randomised controlled trials (including cross‐over designs) of double‐blind design, assessing efficacy of herbal treatments for neuropathic pain compared to placebo, no intervention or any other active comparator. Participants were 18 years and above and had been suffering from one or more neuropathic pain conditions, for three months or more.We applied no restrictions to language or gender. We excluded studies monitoring effects of isolated, single chemicals derived from the plant or synthetic chemicals based on constituents of the plant, if they were not administered at a concentration naturally present within the plant.We excluded studies monitoring the effects of traditional Asian medicine and Cannabinoids as well as studies looking at headache or migraine as these treatments and conditions are addressed in distinct reviews.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Light therapy for preventing seasonal affective disorder
For efficacy, we included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) on adults with a history of winter‐type SAD who were free of symptoms at the beginning of the study. For adverse events, we also intended to include non‐randomised studies. We intended to include studies that compared any type of light therapy (e.g. bright white light, administered by visors or light boxes, infrared light, dawn stimulation) versus no treatment/placebo, second‐generation antidepressants, psychological therapies, melatonin, agomelatine, lifestyle changes, negative ion generators or another of the aforementioned light therapies. We also planned to include studies that looked at light therapy in combination with any comparator intervention.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Mediterranean‐style diet for the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease
We selected randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in healthy adults and adults at high risk of CVD (primary prevention) and those with established CVD (secondary prevention). Both of the following key components were required to reach our definition of a Mediterranean‐style diet: high monounsaturated/saturated fat ratio (use of olive oil as main cooking ingredient and/or consumption of other traditional foods high in monounsaturated fats such as tree nuts) and a high intake of plant‐based foods, including fruits, vegetables and legumes. Additional components included: low to moderate red wine consumption; high consumption of whole grains and cereals; low consumption of meat and meat products and increased consumption of fish; moderate consumption of milk and dairy products. The intervention could be dietary advice, provision of relevant foods, or both. The comparison group received either no intervention, minimal intervention, usual care or another dietary intervention. Outcomes included clinical events and CVD risk factors. We included only studies with follow‐up periods of three months or more defined as the intervention period plus post intervention follow‐up.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Yoga for treating urinary incontinence in women
Randomised controlled trials in women diagnosed with urinary incontinence in which one group was allocated to treatment with yoga.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Exercise for preventing falls in older people living in the community
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the effects of any form of exercise as a single intervention on falls in people aged 60+ years living in the community. We excluded trials focused on particular conditions, such as stroke.
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Iron for the treatment of restless legs syndrome
Controlled trials comparing any formulation of iron with placebo, other medications, or no treatment, in adults diagnosed with RLS according to expert clinical interview or explicit diagnostic criteria.
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Restriction of salt, caffeine and alcohol intake for the treatment of Ménière's disease or syndrome
Randomised controlled trials of dietary modification, specifically salt, caffeine and alcohol restriction or substitution (or both), compared to no modification of these agents or a placebo intervention, in adult patients with Ménière's disease or syndrome.
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Single herbal medicine for diabetic retinopathy
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐RCTs that investigated the effects of any single herb (or extracts from a single herb) as a treatment for people with diabetic retinopathy. We considered the following comparators: placebo, no treatment, non‐herbal (conventional) medicine or surgical treatment.
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Acupuncture for symptomatic gastroparesis
We selected all randomised controlled trials comparing the penetrating type of acupuncture with no treatment, sham acupuncture, conventional medicine, standard care, and other non‐pharmacological active interventions for people with symptomatic gastroparesis of any aetiology (i.e. surgical, diabetic, or idiopathic). Trials reporting outcomes at least four weeks from baseline (short‐term outcomes) were eligible. We defined long‐term outcomes as those measured after 12 weeks from baseline. The primary outcome was improvement of gastroparesis symptoms in the short term. Secondary outcomes were: improvement of symptoms measured after three months, change in the rate of gastric emptying, quality of life, use of medication, and adverse events in the short and long term.
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Vitamin and mineral supplementation for maintaining cognitive function in cognitively healthy people in mid and late life
We included randomised controlled trials that evaluated the cognitive effects on people aged 40 years or more of any vitamin or mineral supplements taken by mouth for at least three months.
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Traditional Chinese herbal medicine for vascular dementia
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of TCHMs compared to placebo, to Western medicine (WM) or to routine therapy for VaD risk factors. Eligible participants were men and women aged 18 years and above, diagnosed with VaD by any of the following four criteria: (1) Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) versions III, III‐R, IV, IV‐TR; (2) National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS‐AIREN); (3) International Classification of Diseases 9 or 10; (4) the Hachinski or the Modified Hachinski Ischaemic Score. We required the use of an imaging technique to differentiate VaD from other dementias. We excluded (1) trials with participants diagnosed with mixed dementia or those that did not use an imaging technique to ascertain VaD; (2) trials of NEDL‐listed Gingko biloba or Huperzine A as experimental interventions, to avoid duplication of existing Cochrane Reviews; (3) trials using acupuncture alone as the experimental intervention; (4) trials using another CP‐ or NEDL‐listed TCHM (except for Huperzine A and Gingko which are popular in Western practice) as the control intervention; and (5) trials using purely non‐pharmacological interventions as the control intervention unless explicitly described as 'routine therapy for VaD risk factors'.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Acupuncture and related interventions for the treatment of symptoms associated with carpal tunnel syndrome
We included randomised and quasi‐randomised trials examining the effects of acupuncture and related interventions on the symptoms of CTS in adults. Eligible studies specified diagnostic criteria for CTS. We included outcomes measured at least three weeks after randomisation. The included studies compared acupuncture and related interventions to placebo/sham treatments, or to active interventions, such as steroid nerve blocks, oral steroid, splints, non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), surgery and physical therapy.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Omega‐6 fats for the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing higher versus lower omega‐6 fat intake in adults with or without CVD, assessing effects over at least 12 months. We included full texts, abstracts, trials registry entries and unpublished studies. Outcomes were all‐cause mortality, CVD mortality, CVD events, risk factors (blood lipids, adiposity, blood pressure), and potential adverse events. We excluded trials where we could not separate omega‐6 fat effects from those of other dietary, lifestyle or medication interventions.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Polyunsaturated fatty acids for the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing higher with lower PUFA intakes in adults with or without cardiovascular disease that assessed effects over 12 months or longer. We included full texts, abstracts, trials registry entries and unpublished data. Outcomes were all‐cause mortality, cardiovascular disease mortality and events, risk factors (blood lipids, adiposity, blood pressure), and adverse events. We excluded trials where we could not separate effects of PUFA intake from other dietary, lifestyle or medication interventions.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Acupuncture for hypertension
We included all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared the clinical effects of an acupuncture intervention (acupuncture used alone or add‐on) with no treatment, a sham acupuncture or an antihypertensive drug in adults with primary hypertension.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Cannabis for the treatment of Crohn's disease
Randomized controlled trials comparing any form of cannabis or its cannabinoid derivatives (natural or synthetic) to placebo or an active therapy for adults with Crohn’s disease were included.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Rutosides for prevention of post‐thrombotic syndrome
We planned to include trials of rutosides versus any alternative (placebo, no intervention, or reference medication) in the prevention of PTS in patients with DVT.
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Rutosides for treatment of post‐thrombotic syndrome
Two review authors independently assessed studies for inclusion. Studies were included to allow the comparison of rutosides versus placebo or no treatment, rutosides versus ECS, and rutosides versus any other treatment. Two review authors extracted information from the trials. Disagreements were resolved by discussion.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Vitamin and mineral supplementation for preventing dementia or delaying cognitive decline in people with mild cognitive impairment
We included randomised or quasi‐randomised, placebo‐controlled trials which evaluated orally administered vitamin or mineral supplements in participants with a diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment and which assessed the incidence of dementia or cognitive outcomes, or both. We were interested in studies applicable to the general population of older people and therefore excluded studies in which participants had severe vitamin or mineral deficiencies.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Non‐clinical interventions for reducing unnecessary caesarean section
Randomised trials, non‐randomised trials, controlled before‐after studies, interrupted time series studies and repeated measures studies were eligible for inclusion. The primary outcome measures were: caesarean section, spontaneous vaginal birth and instrumental birth.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Vitamin D for the management of multiple sclerosis
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐RCTs that compared vitamin D versus placebo, routine care, or low doses of vitamin D in patients with MS. Vitamin D was administered as monotherapy or in combination with calcium. Concomitant interventions were allowed if they were used equally in all trial intervention groups.
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Art therapy for people with dementia
All randomised controlled trials examining art therapy as an intervention for dementia.
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Interventions for preventing falls in older people in care facilities and hospitals
Randomised controlled trials of interventions for preventing falls in older people in residential or nursing care facilities, or hospitals.
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Mindfulness‐based stress reduction for family carers of people with dementia
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of MBSR for family carers of people with dementia.
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Music‐based therapeutic interventions for people with dementia
We included randomised controlled trials of music‐based therapeutic interventions (at least five sessions) for people with dementia that measured any of our outcomes of interest. Control groups either received usual care or other activities with or without music.
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Prescribed hypocaloric nutrition support for critically‐ill adults
We included randomized and quasi‐randomized controlled trials comparing hypocaloric nutrition support to normo‐ or hypercaloric nutrition support or no nutrition support (e.g. fasting) in adults hospitalized in intensive care units (ICUs).
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Immersion in water during labour and birth
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing water immersion with no immersion, or other non‐pharmacological forms of pain management during labour and/or birth in healthy low‐risk women at term gestation with a singleton fetus. Quasi‐RCTs and cluster‐RCTs were eligible for inclusion but none were identified. Cross‐over trials were not eligible for inclusion.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Non‐invasive brain stimulation techniques for chronic pain
Randomised and quasi‐randomised studies of rTMS, CES, tDCS, RINCE and tRNS if they employed a sham stimulation control group, recruited patients over the age of 18 years with pain of three months' duration or more, and measured pain as an outcome. Outcomes of interest were pain intensity measured using visual analogue scales or numerical rating scales, disability, quality of life and adverse events.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Acupuncture for acute stroke
We sought randomized clinical trials (RCTs) of acupuncture started within 30 days from stroke onset compared with placebo or sham acupuncture or open control (no placebo) in people with acute ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke, or both. Needling into the skin was required for acupuncture. Comparisons were made versus (1) all controls (open control or sham acupuncture), and (2) sham acupuncture controls.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Relaxation techniques for pain management in labour
Randomised controlled trials (including quasi randomised and cluster trials) comparing relaxation methods with standard care, no treatment, other non‐pharmacological forms of pain management in labour or placebo.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Massage, reflexology and other manual methods for pain management in labour
We included randomised controlled trials comparing manual methods with standard care, other non‐pharmacological forms of pain management in labour, no treatment or placebo. We searched for trials of the following modalities: massage, warm packs, thermal manual methods, reflexology, chiropractic, osteopathy, musculo‐skeletal manipulation, deep tissue massage, neuro‐muscular therapy, shiatsu, tuina, trigger point therapy, myotherapy and zero balancing. We excluded trials for pain management relating to hypnosis, aromatherapy, acupuncture and acupressure; these are included in other Cochrane reviews.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Oral vitamin B12 versus intramuscular vitamin B12 for vitamin B12 deficiency
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the effect of oral versus IM vitamin B12 for vitamin B12 deficiency.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Aromatherapy for treatment of postoperative nausea and vomiting
We included all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and controlled clinical trials (CCTs) where aromatherapy was used to treat PONV. Interventions were all types of aromatherapy compared to placebo or with standard antiemetics. Primary outcomes were severity and duration of PONV. Secondary outcomes were adverse reactions, use of rescue antiemetics and patient satisfaction.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Acupuncture for depression
Review criteria called for inclusion of all published and unpublished randomised controlled trials comparing acupuncture versus control acupuncture, no treatment, medication, other structured psychotherapies (cognitive‐behavioural therapy, psychotherapy, or counselling), or standard care. Modes of treatment included acupuncture, electro‐acupuncture, and laser acupuncture. Participants included adult men and women with depression diagnosed by Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fourth Edition (DSM‐IV), Research Diagnostic Criteria (RDC), International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD), or Chinese Classification of Mental Disorders Third Edition Revised (CCMD‐3‐R). If necessary, we used trial authors' definitions of depressive disorder.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Prophylactic vitamin K for the prevention of vitamin K deficiency bleeding in preterm neonates
Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi‐RCTs of any preparation of vitamin K given to preterm infants.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Vitamin E for antipsychotic‐induced tardive dyskinesia
We included reports if they were controlled trials dealing with people with antipsychotic‐induced TD and schizophrenia who remained on their antipsychotic medication and had been randomly allocated to either vitamin E or to a placebo, no intervention, or any other intervention.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Respiratory muscle training for multiple sclerosis
We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that investigated the efficacy of respiratory muscle training versus any control in people with MS.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Probiotics for the prevention of Clostridium difficile‐associated diarrhea in adults and children
Randomized controlled (placebo, alternative prophylaxis, or no treatment control) trials investigating probiotics (any strain, any dose) for prevention of CDAD, or C. difficile infection were considered for inclusion.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Antioxidants for preventing and reducing muscle soreness after exercise
We included randomised and quasi‐randomised controlled trials investigating the effects of all forms of antioxidant supplementation including specific antioxidant supplements (e.g. tablets, powders, concentrates) and antioxidant‐enriched foods or diets on preventing or reducing delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). We excluded studies where antioxidant supplementation was combined with another supplement.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Acupuncture for neuropathic pain in adults
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) with treatment duration of eight weeks or longer comparing acupuncture (either given alone or in combination with other therapies) with sham acupuncture, other active therapies, or treatment as usual, for neuropathic pain in adults. We searched for studies of acupuncture based on needle insertion and stimulation of somatic tissues for therapeutic purposes, and we excluded other methods of stimulating acupuncture points without needle insertion. We searched for studies of manual acupuncture, electroacupuncture or other acupuncture techniques used in clinical practice (such as warm needling, fire needling, etc).
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Probiotics for vulvovaginal candidiasis in non‐pregnant women
Randomized controlled trials (RCT) using probiotics, alone or as adjuvants to conventional antifungal drugs, to treat VVC in non‐pregnant women. Trials recruiting women with recurrent VVC, coinfection with other vulvovaginal infections, diabetes mellitus, immunosuppressive disorders or taking immunosuppressant medication were ineligible for inclusion. Probiotics were included if they were made from single or multiple species and in any preparation type/dosage/route of administration.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Music therapy for depression
All randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and controlled clinical trials (CCTs) comparing music therapy versus treatment as usual (TAU), psychological therapies, pharmacological therapies, other therapies, or different forms of music therapy for reducing depression.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Combined diet and exercise interventions for preventing gestational diabetes mellitus
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and cluster‐RCTs, comparing combined diet and exercise interventions with no intervention (i.e. standard care), that reported on GDM diagnosis as an outcome. Quasi‐RCTs were excluded. Cross‐over trials were not eligible for inclusion. We planned to include RCTs comparing two or more different diet/exercise interventions, however none were identified.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Acupuncture or acupressure for induction of labour
Randomised controlled trials comparing acupuncture or acupressure, used for third trimester cervical ripening or labour induction, with placebo/no treatment or other methods on a predefined list of labour induction methods.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) for fibromyalgia in adults
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi‐randomised trials of TENS treatment for pain associated with fibromyalgia in adults. We included cross‐over and parallel‐group trial designs. We included studies that evaluated TENS administered using non‐invasive techniques at intensities that produced perceptible TENS sensations during stimulation at either the site of pain or over nerve bundles proximal (or near) to the site of pain. We included TENS administered as a sole treatment or TENS in combination with other treatments, and TENS given as a single treatment or as a course of treatments.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Yoga for epilepsy
The following study designs were eligible for inclusion: randomised controlled trials (RCT) of treatment of epilepsy with yoga. The studies could be double‐, single‐ or unblinded. Eligible participants were adults with uncontrolled epilepsy comparing yoga with no treatment or different behavioural treatments.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Yoga as part of a package of care versus standard care for schizophrenia
All randomised controlled trials (RCTs) including people with schizophrenia comparing yoga as a package of care with standard‐care control.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Yoga versus non‐standard care for schizophrenia
All randomised controlled trials (RCTs) including people with schizophrenia and comparing yoga with non‐standard care. We included trials that met our selection criteria and reported useable data.