anurajms/meta_analysis huggingface dataset:
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Interventions for the management of obesity in people with bipolar disorder
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs), randomised at the level of the individual or cluster, and cross‐over designs of interventions for management of obesity, in which at least 80% of study participants had a clinical diagnosis of bipolar disorder and comorbid obesity (body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg/m²), were eligible for inclusion. No exclusions were based on type of bipolar disorder, stage of illness, age, or gender. We included non‐pharmacological interventions comprising dietary, exercise, behavioural, and multi‐component interventions; pharmacological interventions consisting of weight loss medications and medication switching interventions; and surgical interventions such as gastric bypass, gastric bands, biliopancreatic diversion, and vertical banded gastroplasty. Comparators included the following approaches: dietary intervention versus inactive comparator; exercise intervention versus inactive comparator; behavioural intervention versus inactive comparator; multi‐component lifestyle intervention versus inactive comparator; medication switching intervention versus inactive comparator; weight loss medication intervention versus inactive comparator; and surgical intervention versus inactive comparator. Primary outcomes of interest were changes in body mass, patient‐reported adverse events, and quality of life.
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Antibiotic adjuvant therapy for pulmonary infection in cystic fibrosis
Randomised controlled trials and quasi‐randomised controlled trials of a therapy exerting an antibiotic adjuvant mechanism of action compared to placebo or no therapy for people with cystic fibrosis.
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Statins for asthma
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) with a parallel‐group design that assessed statins for at least 12 weeks' duration. We considered all participants with a clinical diagnosis of asthma to be eligible, regardless of age, sex, disease severity and previous or current treatment. We planned to include studies reported as full text, those published as abstract only, and unpublished data.
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Head midline position for preventing the occurrence or extension of germinal matrix‐intraventricular haemorrhage in preterm infants
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing caring for very preterm infants in a supine head midline position versus a prone or lateral decubitus position, or undertaking a strategy of regular position change, or having no prespecified position. We included trials enrolling infants with existing GM‐IVH and planned to assess extension of haemorrhage in a subgroup of infants. We planned to analyse horizontal (flat) versus head elevated positions separately for all body positions.
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Psychological interventions for psychosis in adolescents
All randomised controlled trials comparing various psychological interventions with treatment‐as‐usual or other psychological treatments for adolescents with psychosis. For analyses, we included trials meeting our inclusion criteria and reporting useable data.
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Lamotrigine add‐on therapy for drug‐resistant generalised tonic‐clonic seizures
Randomised controlled parallel or cross‐over trials of add‐on lamotrigine for people of any age with drug‐resistant primary generalised tonic‐clonic seizures.
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Use of reflective materials during phototherapy for newborn infants with unconjugated hyperbilirubinaemia
We included randomised and quasi‐randomised controlled trials if the participants, who were term or preterm infants, received phototherapy with curtains made of reflective materials of any type in the treatment arm, and if those in the comparison arm received similar phototherapy without curtains or other intensified phototherapy, such as a double bank of lights.
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Potassium binders for chronic hyperkalaemia in people with chronic kidney disease
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐randomised controlled studies (quasi‐RCTs) evaluating potassium binders for chronic hyperkalaemia administered in adults and children with CKD.
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Ketogenic diets for drug‐resistant epilepsy
RCTs or quasi‐RCTs of KDs for people of any age with drug‐resistant epilepsy.
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Cognitive‐behavioural therapy (CBT) interventions for young people aged 10 to 18 with harmful sexual behaviour
We included all relevant randomised controlled trials (RCTs) using parallel groups. We evaluated CBT treatments compared with no treatment, waiting list or standard care, irrespective of mode of delivery or setting, given to young people aged 10 to 18 years, who had been convicted of a sexual offence or who exhibited HSB.
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Pitavastatin for lowering lipids
RCT and controlled before‐and‐after studies evaluating the dose response of different fixed doses of pitavastatin on blood lipids over a duration of three to 12 weeks in participants of any age with and without cardiovascular disease.
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Low molecular weight heparin for prevention of central venous catheter‐related thrombosis in children
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐randomised trials comparing LMWH to no prophylaxis (placebo or no treatment), or low‐dose unfractionated heparin (UFH) either as continuous infusion or flushes (low‐dose UFH aims to ensure the patency of the central line but has no systemic anticoagulation activity), given to prevent CVC‐related thrombotic events in children. We selected studies conducted in children aged 0 to 18 years.
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Ventriculo‐peritoneal shunting devices for hydrocephalus
We selected randomised controlled trials or quasi‐randomised trials of different types of ventriculo‐peritoneal shunting devices for people with hydrocephalus. Primary outcomes included: treatment failure, adverse events and mortality.
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Standard versus biofilm antimicrobial susceptibility testing to guide antibiotic therapy in cystic fibrosis
Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of antibiotic therapy based on biofilm antimicrobial susceptibility testing compared to antibiotic therapy based on conventional antimicrobial susceptibility testing in the treatment of Pseudomonas aeruginosa pulmonary infection in people with cystic fibrosis.
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Antibiotic treatment for nontuberculous mycobacteria lung infection in people with cystic fibrosis
Any randomized controlled trials comparing nontuberculous mycobacteria antibiotics to no antibiotic treatment, as well as one nontuberculous mycobacteria antibiotic regimen compared to another nontuberculous mycobacteria antibiotic regimen, in individuals with cystic fibrosis.
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Vitamin K supplementation for cystic fibrosis
Randomised controlled trials of all preparations of vitamin K used as a supplement compared to either no supplementation (or placebo) at any dose or route and for any duration, in patients with cystic fibrosis.
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Multi‐nutrient fortification of human milk for preterm infants
Randomised and quasi‐randomised controlled trials that compared feeding preterm infants with multi‐nutrient (protein and energy plus minerals, vitamins, or other nutrients) fortified human breast milk versus unfortified (no added protein or energy) breast milk.
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Effects of total fat intake on body fatness in adults
Trials fulfilled the following criteria: 1) randomised intervention trial, 2) included adults aged at least 18 years, 3) randomised to a lower fat versus higher fat diet, without the intention to reduce weight in any participants, 4) not multifactorial and 5) assessed a measure of weight or body fatness after at least six months. We duplicated inclusion decisions and resolved disagreement by discussion or referral to a third party.
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Oral galactagogues (natural therapies or drugs) for increasing breast milk production in mothers of non‐hospitalised term infants
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐RCTs (including published abstracts) comparing oral galactagogues with placebo, no treatment, or another oral galactagogue in mothers breastfeeding healthy term infants. We also included cluster‐randomised trials but excluded cross‐over trials.
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Interventions for congenital talipes equinovarus (clubfoot)
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐RCTs evaluating interventions for CTEV, including interventions compared to other interventions, sham intervention or no intervention. Participants were people of all ages with CTEV of either one or both feet.
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Combination antimicrobial susceptibility testing for acute exacerbations in chronic infection of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in cystic fibrosis
Randomised and quasi‐randomised controlled studies of antibiotic therapy based on conventional antimicrobial susceptibility testing compared to antibiotic therapy based on combination antimicrobial susceptibility testing in the treatment of acute pulmonary exacerbations in cystic fibrosis due to chronic infection with Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
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Artificial corneas versus donor corneas for repeat corneal transplants
Two review authors independently assessed reports from the electronic searches to identify randomized controlled trials or controlled clinical trials. Any discrepancies were resolved by discussion or consultation.
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Alarm interventions for nocturnal enuresis in children
We included randomised or quasi‐randomised trials of enuresis alarms or alarms combined with another intervention for treating nocturnal enuresis in children between 5 and 16 years old.
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Topical azelaic acid, salicylic acid, nicotinamide, sulphur, zinc and fruit acid (alpha‐hydroxy acid) for acne
Clinical randomised controlled trials of the six topical treatments compared with other topical treatments, placebo, or no treatment in people with acne.
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Corticosteroids as standalone or add‐on treatment for sore throat
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared steroids to either placebo or standard care in adults and children (aged over three years) with sore throat. We excluded studies of hospitalised participants, those with infectious mononucleosis (glandular fever), sore throat following tonsillectomy or intubation, or peritonsillar abscess.
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Inhaled mannitol for cystic fibrosis
All randomised controlled studies comparing mannitol with placebo, active inhaled comparators (for example, hypertonic saline or dornase alfa) or with no treatment.
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Normal saline (0.9% sodium chloride) versus heparin intermittent flushing for the prevention of occlusion in long‐term central venous catheters in infants and children
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared the efficacy of intermittent flushing with normal saline versus heparin to prevent occlusion of long‐term CVCs in infants and children aged up to 18 years of age. We excluded temporary CVCs and peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC).
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Oscillating devices for airway clearance in people with cystic fibrosis
Randomised controlled studies and controlled clinical studies of oscillating devices compared with any other form of physiotherapy in people with cystic fibrosis. Single‐treatment interventions (therapy technique used only once in the comparison) were excluded.
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Tonsillectomy versus tonsillotomy for obstructive sleep‐disordered breathing in children
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the effectiveness of (adeno)tonsillectomy with (adeno)tonsillotomy in children aged 2 to 16 years with oSDB.
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Treating progressive disseminated histoplasmosis in people living with HIV
We evaluated studies assessing the use of liposomal amphotericin B and alternative antifungals for induction therapy; studies assessing the duration of antifungals for maintenance therapy; and studies assessing the timing of ART. We included randomized controlled trials (RCT), single‐arm trials, prospective cohort studies, and single‐arm cohort studies.
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Clonazepam add‐on therapy for drug‐resistant epilepsy
Double‐blind randomised controlled studies of add‐on clonazepam in people with resistant focal or generalised onset seizures, with a minimum treatment period of eight weeks. The studies could be of parallel or cross‐over design.
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Vitamin D, calcium or a combination of vitamin D and calcium for the treatment of nutritional rickets in children
We included randomised controlled trials (RCT) involving children aged 0 to 18 years with nutritional rickets which compared treatment with vitamin D, calcium or a combination of vitamin D and calcium.
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Non‐invasive respiratory support for the management of transient tachypnea of the newborn
Randomized controlled trials, quasi‐randomized controlled trials and cluster trials on non‐invasive respiratory support provided to infants born at 34 weeks' gestational age or more and less than three days of age with transient tachypnea of the newborn.
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Interventions for fatigue in inflammatory bowel disease
Randomised controlled trials of pharmacological and non‐pharmacological interventions in children or adults with IBD, where fatigue was assessed as a primary or secondary outcome using a generic or disease‐specific fatigue measure, a subscale of a larger quality of life scale or as a single‐item measure, were included.
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Anthelmintic drugs for treating ascariasis
Randomized controlled trials (RCT) that compared albendazole, mebendazole, and ivermectin in children and adults with confirmed Ascaris infection.
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Omega‐3 fatty acid supplementation for cystic fibrosis
Randomised controlled trials in people with cystic fibrosis comparing omega‐3 fatty acid supplements with placebo.
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Rinse‐free hand wash for reducing absenteeism among preschool and school children
Randomized controlled trials (RCTs), irrespective of publication status, comparing rinse‐free hand wash in any form (hand rub, hand sanitizer, gel, foam etc.) with conventional hand washing using soap and water, other hand hygiene programs (such as education alone), or no intervention. The population of interest was children aged between two and 18 years attending preschool (childcare, day care, kindergarten, etc.) or school (primary, secondary, elementary, etc.). Primary outcomes included child or student absenteeism for any reason, absenteeism due to any illness and adverse skin reactions.
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Agricultural and nutritional education interventions for reducing aflatoxin exposure to improve infant and child growth in low‐ and middle‐income countries
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and cluster‐RCTs of agricultural education and nutritional education interventions of any duration, at the household or community level, aimed at reducing aflatoxin intake by infants, children, and pregnant and lactating women, in LMICs during the post‐harvest period, compared to no intervention or usual support. We excluded studies that followed participants for less than four weeks. We assessed prespecified prenatal (at birth) and postnatal growth outcomes (during infancy, childhood, and adolescence), with linear growth (as the primary outcome), infectious disease morbidity, and unintended consequences.
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EEG for children with complex febrile seizures
All randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that examined the utility of an EEG and its timing after complex febrile seizures in children.
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Clonidine for pain in non‐ventilated infants
Randomised controlled trials, quasi‐randomised controlled trials, and cluster trials comparing clonidine to placebo or no treatment, opioids, paracetamol, dexmedetomidine, or non‐pharmacological pain‐reducing interventions for the management of procedural pain, postoperative pain, and pain associated with clinical conditions in preterm and term newborns.
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Early versus late parenteral nutrition for critically ill term and late preterm infants
We included RCTs comparing early versus late initiation of PN in term and late preterm infants. We defined early PN as commencing within 72 hours of admission, and late PN as commencing after 72 hours of admission. Infants born at 37 weeks' gestation or more were defined as term, and infants born between 34 and 36+6 weeks' gestation were defined as late preterm.
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Exercise versus no exercise for the occurrence, severity, and duration of acute respiratory infections
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐RCTs (method of allocation that is not truly random, e.g. based on date of birth, medical record number) of exercise for ARIs in the general population.
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Antibiotic treatment for Burkholderia cepacia complex in people with cystic fibrosis experiencing a pulmonary exacerbation
Randomised and quasi‐randomised controlled trials of treatments for exacerbations of pulmonary symptoms in people with cystic fibrosis chronically infected with organisms of the Burkholderia cepacia complex.
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Treatments for the prevention of Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP)
We aimed to include randomised controlled trials (RCTs), quasi‐RCTs, and cluster‐RCTs; prospective non‐randomised cohort controlled and uncontrolled studies; and case‐control studies of adults and children with epilepsy receiving an intervention for the prevention of SUDEP. Types of interventions included: early versus delayed pre‐surgical evaluation for lesional epilepsy; educational programmes; seizure‐monitoring devices; safety pillows; nocturnal supervision; selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs); opiate antagonists; and adenosine antagonists.
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Enteral lactoferrin supplementation for prevention of sepsis and necrotizing enterocolitis in preterm infants
In our search, we included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating enteral lactoferrin supplementation at any dose or duration to prevent sepsis or NEC in preterm neonates.
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Interventions for preventing and managing advanced liver disease in cystic fibrosis
Any published and unpublished randomised controlled trials and quasi‐randomised controlled trials of advanced liver disease in cystic fibrosis with cirrhosis or liver failure, portal hypertension or variceal bleeding (or both).
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Physical therapies for postural abnormalities in people with cystic fibrosis
Randomised controlled trials examining any modality of physical therapy considered relevant for treating postural disorders compared with each other, no physical therapy, sham treatment or usual care in people with CF (of any age or disease severity).
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Glucocorticoid replacement regimens for treating congenital adrenal hyperplasia
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi‐RCTs comparing different glucocorticoid replacement regimens for treating CAH due to 21‐hydroxylase deficiency in children and adults.
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Sustained versus standard inflations during neonatal resuscitation to prevent mortality and improve respiratory outcomes
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐RCTs comparing initial sustained lung inflation (SLI) versus standard inflations given to infants receiving resuscitation with PPV at birth.
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Diaphragm‐triggered non‐invasive respiratory support in preterm infants
Randomised and quasi‐randomised controlled trials that compared diaphragm‐triggered non‐invasive versus other non‐invasive respiratory support in preterm infants.
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Postnatal corticosteroids for transient tachypnoea of the newborn
We included randomized controlled trials, quasi‐randomized controlled trials and cluster‐randomized trials comparing postnatal corticosteroids versus placebo or no treatment or any other drugs administered to infants born at 34 weeks' gestational age or more and less than three days of age with TTN.
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Immunosuppressive agents for treating IgA nephropathy
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐RCTs of treatment for IgA nephropathy in adults and children and that compared immunosuppressive agents with placebo, no treatment, or other immunosuppressive or non‐immunosuppressive agents.
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Sclerotherapy versus sham or no intervention for primary prophylaxis of oesophageal variceal bleeding in children with chronic liver disease or portal vein thrombosis
We included randomised clinical trials irrespective of blinding, language, or publication status assessing sclerotherapy versus sham or no intervention for primary prophylaxis of oesophageal variceal bleeding in children with chronic liver disease or portal vein thrombosis.
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Probiotics for maintenance of remission in ulcerative colitis
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared probiotics against placebo or any other intervention, in both adults and children, for the maintenance of remission in ulcerative colitis were eligible for inclusion. Maintenance therapy had to be for a minimum of three months when remission has been established by any clinical, endoscopic,histological or radiological relapse as defined by study authors.
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Home fortification of foods with multiple micronutrient powders for health and nutrition in children under two years of age
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐RCTs with individual randomisation or cluster‐randomisation. Participants were infants and young children aged 6 to 23 months at the time of intervention, with no identified specific health problems. The intervention consisted of consumption of food fortified at the point of use with MNP formulated with at least iron, zinc, and vitamin A, compared with placebo, no intervention, or use of iron‐containing supplements, which is standard practice.
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Timing of hypertonic saline inhalation for cystic fibrosis
Any trial of hypertonic saline in people with cystic fibrosis where timing of inhalation was the randomised element in the study protocol with either: inhalation up to six hours before airway clearance techniques compared to inhalation during airway clearance techniques compared to inhalation up to six hours after airway clearance techniques; or morning compared to evening inhalation with any definition provided by the author.
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Different unfractionated heparin doses for preventing arterial thrombosis in children undergoing cardiac catheterization
We included randomized or quasi‐randomized trials that compared low dose to high dose unfractionated heparin administered prior to cardiac catheterization. We selected studies conducted in children aged 0 to 18 years.
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Ibuprofen for the treatment of patent ductus arteriosus in preterm or low birth weight (or both) infants
Randomised or quasi‐randomised controlled trials of ibuprofen for the treatment of a PDA in preterm, low birth weight, or both preterm and low‐birth‐weight newborn infants.
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Early versus late erythropoietin for preventing red blood cell transfusion in preterm and/or low birth weight infants
Randomised or quasi‐randomised controlled trials enrolling preterm or LBW infants less than eight days of age. Intervention: Early initiation of EPO (initiated at less than eight days of age) versus late initiation of EPO (initiated at eight to 28 days of age).
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Surfactant for pulmonary haemorrhage in neonates
Randomised or quasi‐randomised controlled trials that evaluated the effect of surfactant in the treatment of PH in intubated term or preterm (< 37 weeks) neonates with PH. Infants were included up to 44 weeks' postmenstrual age. The interventions studied were intratracheal instillation of surfactant (natural or synthetic, regardless of dose) versus placebo or no intervention.
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Intravenous immunoglobulin for preventing infection in preterm and/or low birth weight infants
We selected randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in which a group of participants to whom IVIG was given was compared with a control group that received a placebo or no intervention for preterm (< 37 weeks' gestational age) and/or LBW (< 2500 g) infants. Studies that were primarily designed to assess the effect of IVIG on humoral immune markers were excluded, as were studies in which the follow‐up period was one week or less.
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Paracetamol (acetaminophen) for prevention or treatment of pain in newborns
We included randomised and quasi‐randomised controlled trials of paracetamol for the prevention/treatment of pain in neonates (≤ 28 days of age).
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Oral Janus kinase inhibitors for maintenance of remission in ulcerative colitis
Randomized control trial (RCTs) in which an oral JAK inhibitor was compared with placebo or active comparator in the treatment of quiescent UC were eligible for inclusion.
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Interventions for chronic pruritus of unknown origin
We sought to include randomised controlled trials and quasi‐randomised controlled trials that assessed interventions for CPUO, as defined in category VI ('Other pruritus of undetermined origin, or chronic pruritus of unknown origin') of the International Forum for the Study of Itch (IFSI) classification, in children and adults. Eligible interventions were non‐pharmacological or topical or systemic pharmacological interventions, and eligible comparators were another active treatment, placebo, sham procedures, or no treatment or equivalent (e.g. waiting list).
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Probiotics for people with cystic fibrosis
Randomised or quasi‐randomised controlled trials (RCTs) assessing efficacies and safety of probiotics in children and adults with CF. Cross‐over RCTs with a washout phase were included and for those without a washout period, only the first phase of each trial was analysed.
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Improving vaccination uptake among adolescents
Randomised trials, non‐randomised trials, controlled before‐after studies, and interrupted time series studies of adolescents (girls or boys aged 10 to 19 years) eligible for World Health Organization‐recommended vaccines and their parents or healthcare providers.
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Hypertonic saline versus other intracranial pressure–lowering agents for people with acute traumatic brain injury
We sought to identify all randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of hypertonic saline versus other intracranial pressure‐lowering agents for people with acute traumatic brain injury of any severity. We excluded cross‐over trials as incompatible with assessing long‐term outcomes.
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Anti‐inflammatory medications for obstructive sleep apnoea in children
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing anti‐inflammatory drugs against placebo in children between one and 16 years with objectively diagnosed OSA (apnoea/hypopnoea index (AHI) ≥ 1 per hour).
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Sclerotherapy versus beta‐blockers for primary prophylaxis of oesophageal variceal bleeding in children and adolescents with chronic liver disease or portal vein thrombosis
We planned to include randomised clinical trials irrespective of blinding, language, or publication status, assessing sclerotherapy versus any type of beta‐blocker for primary prophylaxis of oesophageal variceal bleeding in children and adolescents with chronic liver disease or portal vein thrombosis. We planned to include quasi‐randomised and other observational studies retrieved with the searches for randomised clinical trials for report of harm.
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Topical antiseptics for chronic suppurative otitis media
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) with at least a one‐week follow‐up involving patients (adults and children) who had chronic ear discharge of unknown cause or CSOM, where the ear discharge had continued for more than two weeks.The interventions were any single, or combination of, topical antiseptic agent of any class, applied directly into the ear canal as ear drops, powders or irrigations, or as part of an aural toileting procedure.Two main comparisons were topical antiseptics compared to: a) placebo or no intervention; and b) another topical antiseptic (e.g. topical antiseptic A versus topical antiseptic B).Within each comparison we separated studies where both groups of patients had received topical antiseptics a) alone or with aural toileting and b) on top of antibiotic treatment.
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Drug treatment for spinal muscular atrophy types II and III
We sought all randomised or quasi‐randomised trials that examined the efficacy of drug treatment for SMA types II and III. Participants had to fulfil the clinical criteria and have a homozygous deletion or hemizygous deletion in combination with a point mutation in the second allele of the SMN1 gene (5q11.2‐13.2) confirmed by genetic analysis.The primary outcome measure was change in disability score within one year after the onset of treatment. Secondary outcome measures within one year after the onset of treatment were change in muscle strength, ability to stand or walk, change in quality of life, time from the start of treatment until death or full‐time ventilation and adverse events attributable to treatment during the trial period.Treatment strategies involving SMN1‐replacement with viral vectors are out of the scope of this review, but a summary is given in Appendix 1. Drug treatment for SMA type I is the topic of a separate Cochrane Review.
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Antibiotics versus topical antiseptics for chronic suppurative otitis media
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) with at least a one‐week follow‐up involving patients (adults and children) who had chronic ear discharge of unknown cause or CSOM, where ear discharge had continued for more than two weeks.The intervention was any single, or combination of, antibiotic agent, whether applied topically (without steroids) or systemically. The comparison was any single, or combination of, topical antiseptic agent, applied as ear drops, powders or irrigations, or as part of an aural toileting procedure.Two comparisons were topical antiseptics compared to: a) topical antibiotics or b) systemic antibiotics. Within each comparison we separated where both groups of patients had received topical antibiotic a) alone or with aural toilet and b) on top of background treatment (such as systemic antibiotics).
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Caregiver involvement in interventions for improving children's dietary intake and physical activity behaviors
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐RCTs evaluating the effects of interventions to improve children's dietary intake or physical activity behavior, or both, with children aged 2 to 18 years as active participants and at least one component involving caregivers versus the same interventions but without the caregiver component(s). We excluded interventions meant as treatment or targeting children with pre‐existing conditions, as well as caregiver‐child units residing in orphanages and school hostel environments.
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Topical antibiotics for chronic suppurative otitis media
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) with at least a one‐week follow‐up involving participants (adults and children) who had chronic ear discharge of unknown cause or CSOM, where the ear discharge had continued for more than two weeks.The interventions were any single, or combination of, topical antibiotic agent(s) of any class, applied directly into the ear canal as ear drops, powders or irrigations, or as part of an aural toileting procedure.The two main comparisons were topical antibiotic compared to a) placebo or no intervention and b) another topical antibiotic (e.g. topical antibiotic A versus topical antibiotic B).Within each comparison we separated studies where both groups of participants had received topical antibiotic a) alone or with aural toileting and b) on top of background treatment (such as systemic antibiotics).
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Decompressive craniectomy for the treatment of high intracranial pressure in closed traumatic brain injury
We included randomized studies assessing patients over the age of 12 months with severe TBI who either underwent DC to control ICP refractory to conventional medical treatments or received standard care.
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Tonsillectomy for periodic fever, aphthous stomatitis, pharyngitis and cervical adenitis syndrome (PFAPA)
Randomised controlled trials comparing tonsillectomy (with or without adenoidectomy) with non‐surgical treatment in children with PFAPA.
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Racecadotril for acute diarrhoea in children
Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared racecadotril to placebo or no intervention in addition to standard care (oral rehydration therapy) in children under five with acute diarrhoea. The primary outcomes were failure of oral rehydration, duration of diarrhoea, and number of stools. The secondary outcomes were stool output, length of the hospital stay, and adverse events.
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Equivalent schedules of intradermal fractional dose versus intramuscular full dose of inactivated polio vaccine for prevention of poliomyelitis
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐RCTs of healthy individuals of any age who are eligible for immunisation with IPV, comparing intradermal fractional‐dose (one‐fifth) IPV to intramuscular full‐dose IPV.
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Treatments for preventing recurrence of infection with Pseudomonas aeruginosa in people with cystic fibrosis
Randomised controlled trials (and quasi‐randomised trials where the risk of bias was low) comparing any treatment modality aimed at preventing recurrence of PA infection with placebo, standard therapy or any other treatment modality in people with CF who have undergone successful eradication of PA.
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Prophylactic antibiotics for penetrating abdominal trauma: duration of use and antibiotic choice
We included RCTs only. We included studies involving participants of all ages, which were conducted in secondary care hospitals only. We included studies of participants who had an isolated penetrating abdominal wound that breached the peritoneum, who were not already taking antibiotics.
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Interventions for managing halitosis
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) which involved adults over the age of 16, and any intervention for managing halitosis compared to another or placebo, or no intervention. The active interventions or controls were administered over a minimum of one week and with no upper time limit. We excluded quasi‐randomised trials, trials comparing the results for less than one week follow‐up, and studies including advanced periodontitis.
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Drug treatment for spinal muscular atrophy type I
We sought all randomised controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi‐RCTs that examined the efficacy of drug treatment for SMA type I. Included participants had to fulfil clinical criteria and have a genetically confirmed deletion or mutation of the SMN1 gene (5q11.2‐13.2).The primary outcome measure was age at death or full‐time ventilation. Secondary outcome measures were acquisition of motor milestones, i.e. head control, rolling, sitting or standing, motor milestone response on disability scores within one year after the onset of treatment, and adverse events and serious adverse events attributable to treatment during the trial period.Treatment strategies involving SMN1 gene replacement with viral vectors are out of the scope of this review.
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Iron therapy for preoperative anaemia
We included all randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared preoperative iron monotherapy to placebo, no treatment, standard care or another form of iron therapy for anaemic adults undergoing surgery. We defined anaemia as haemoglobin values less than 13 g/dL for males and 12 g/dL for non‐pregnant females.
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Primary closure versus delayed or no closure for traumatic wounds due to mammalian bite
We included randomised controlled trials which compared primary closure with delayed or no closure for traumatic wounds due to mammalian bite.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Corticosteroids for treating sepsis in children and adults
We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of corticosteroids versus placebo or usual care (antimicrobials, fluid replacement, and vasopressor therapy as needed) in children and adults with sepsis. We also included RCTs of continuous infusion versus intermittent bolus of corticosteroids.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Beginning reading interventions for children and adolescents with intellectual disability
We included randomized controlled trials (including trials that use quasi‐random methods of allocation such as date of birth), involving children and adolescents with intellectual disability (defined as an intelligence quotient (IQ) two standard deviations or more below the population mean) between the ages of 4 and 21 years, that evaluated the efficacy of a beginning reading intervention compared to a control intervention, including no treatment control, wait‐list control, treatment as usual, attention control, or alternate non‐reading instruction control.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Sequential inactivated (IPV) and live oral (OPV) poliovirus vaccines for preventing poliomyelitis
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs), quasi‐RCTs, controlled before‐after studies, nationwide uncontrolled before‐after studies (UBAs), interrupted time series (ITS) and controlled ITS comparing sequential IPV‐OPV schedules (one or more IPV doses followed by one or more OPV doses) with IPV alone, OPV alone or non‐sequential IPV‐OPV combinations.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Parent training programmes for managing infantile colic
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐RCTs investigating the effectiveness of any form of parental training programmes, alone or in combination, versus another intervention(s) or control, on infantile colic.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Intravenous immunoglobulins for epilepsy
Randomised or quasi‐randomised controlled trials of IVIg as monotherapy or add‐on treatment in people with epilepsy.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Video feedback for parental sensitivity and attachment security in children under five years
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐RCTs that assessed the effects of video feedback versus no treatment, inactive alternative intervention, or treatment as usual for parental sensitivity, parental reflective functioning, attachment security and adverse effects in children aged from birth to four years 11 months.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Positive expiratory pressure physiotherapy for airway clearance in people with cystic fibrosis
Randomised controlled studies in which PEP was compared with any other form of physiotherapy in people with CF. This included, postural drainage and percussion (PDPV), active cycle of breathing techniques (ACBT), oscillating PEP devices, thoracic oscillating devices, bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPaP) and exercise.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Fluorides for preventing early tooth decay (demineralised lesions) during fixed brace treatment
Parallel‐group, randomised controlled trials comparing the use of a fluoride‐containing product versus a placebo, no treatment or a different type of fluoride treatment, in which the outcome of enamel demineralisation was assessed at the start and at the end of orthodontic treatment.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Human milk‐derived fortifier versus bovine milk‐derived fortifier for prevention of mortality and morbidity in preterm neonates
We included randomized and quasi‐randomized controlled trials that compared preterm infants fed breast milk fortified with human milk‐derived fortifier versus those fed with breast milk fortified with bovine milk‐derived fortifier.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Intranasal corticosteroids for non‐allergic rhinitis
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing intranasal corticosteroids, delivered by any means and in any volume, with (a) placebo/no intervention or (b) other active treatments in adults and children (aged ≥ 12 years).
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Interventions to reduce Staphylococcus aureus in the management of eczema
Randomised controlled trials of products intended to reduce S. aureus on the skin in people diagnosed with atopic eczema by a medical practitioner. Eligible comparators were a similar treatment regimen without the anti‐staphylococcal agent.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Stopping enteral feeds for prevention of transfusion‐associated necrotising enterocolitis in preterm infants
Randomised and quasi‐randomised controlled trials that compared stopping feeds versus continuing feeds around the time of blood transfusion in preterm infants.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Medical and surgical interventions for the treatment of urinary stones in children
We included all randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐RCTs looking at interventions for upper urinary tract stones in children. These included shock wave lithotripsy, percutaneous nephrolithotripsy, ureterorenoscopy, open surgery and medical expulsion therapy for upper urinary tract stones in children aged 0 to 18 years.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Botulinum toxin type A in the treatment of lower limb spasticity in children with cerebral palsy
Randomised controlled trials of children with CP, aged between birth and 19 years, treated with BoNT‐A injections in the lower limb muscles compared to other interventions. The primary outcomes were gait analysis and function. The secondary outcomes were joint range of motion, quality of life, satisfaction, spasticity, and adverse events.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Valproate for acute mania
Single‐ and double‐blind, randomised controlled trials comparing valproate with placebo, alternative antimanic treatments, or a combination of pharmacological treatments. We also considered studies where valproate was used as an adjunctive treatment in combination with another agent separately from studies where it was used in monotherapy. We included male and female patients of all ages and ethnicity with bipolar disorder.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Antioxidant supplementation for lung disease in cystic fibrosis
Randomised and quasi‐randomised controlled studies comparing antioxidants as listed above (individually or in combination) in more than a single administration to placebo or standard care in people with CF.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Inhaled steroids with and without regular formoterol for asthma: serious adverse events
We included randomised clinical trials (RCTs) with a parallel design involving adults, children, or both with asthma of any severity who received regular formoterol and ICS (separate or combined) treatment versus the same dose of ICS for at least 12 weeks.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Interventions to improve disposal of child faeces for preventing diarrhoea and soil‐transmitted helminth infection
We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and non‐randomized controlled studies (NRS) that compared interventions aiming to improve the disposal of faeces of children aged below five years in order to decrease direct or indirect human contact with such faeces with no intervention or a different intervention in children and adults.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Conservative interventions for treating functional daytime urinary incontinence in children
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs), quasi‐randomised, multi‐arm studies, cross‐over studies and cluster‐randomised studies that included children aged between 5 and 18 years with functional daytime urinary incontinence.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Calcium supplementation commencing before or early in pregnancy, for preventing hypertensive disorders of pregnancy
Eligible studies were randomised controlled trials (RCT) of calcium supplementation, including women not yet pregnant, or women in early pregnancy. Cluster‐RCTs, quasi‐RCTs, and trials published as abstracts were eligible, but we did not identify any.