anurajms/meta_analysis huggingface dataset:
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Blood pressure‐lowering efficacy of monotherapy with thiazide diuretics for primary hypertension
We included double‐blind, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing fixed‐dose thiazide diuretic monotherapy with placebo for a duration of 3 to 12 weeks in the treatment of adult patients with primary hypertension.
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Trypanocidal drugs for chronic asymptomatic Trypanosoma cruzi infection
Review authors screened the retrieved references for eligibility (those dealing with human participants treated with TT) and then assessed the pre‐selected studies in full for inclusion. We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies that provided data on either mortality or clinical progression of CCC after at least four years of follow‐up.
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Anticoagulants (heparin, low molecular weight heparin and oral anticoagulants) for intermittent claudication
All randomised trials of anticoagulants used to treat patients with intermittent claudication.
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Type of incision for below knee amputation
Randomised controlled trials comparing two or more types of skin incision for BKA were identified. People with lower limb ischaemia (acute or chronic) or diabetic foot sepsis, or both, were considered for inclusion. People undergoing below knee amputation for other conditions were excluded.
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Direct thrombin inhibitors versus vitamin K antagonists for preventing cerebral or systemic embolism in people with non‐valvular atrial fibrillation
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing DTIs versus VKAs for prevention of stroke and systemic embolism in people with non‐valvular AF.
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Glycoprotein IIb‐IIIa inhibitors for acute ischaemic stroke
We aimed to analyse unconfounded randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of GP IIb‐IIIa inhibitors in the treatment of people with acute ischaemic stroke. Only individuals who started treatment within six hours of stroke onset were included.
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Antibiotic prophylaxis for preventing post solid organ transplant tuberculosis
All randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐RCTs that compared antibiotic prophylaxis with a placebo or no intervention for recipients of solid organ transplants were included.
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Combined oral contraceptives: venous thrombosis
We selected studies including healthy women taking COC with VT as outcome.
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Blood pressure lowering efficacy of nonselective beta‐blockers for primary hypertension
Randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, parallel or cross‐over trials. Studies had to contain a nonselective beta‐blocker monotherapy arm with a fixed dose. Participants enrolled into the studies had to have primary hypertension at baseline. Duration of studies had to be between three and 12 weeks.
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First‐line beta‐blockers versus other antihypertensive medications for chronic type B aortic dissection
We considered randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing different antihypertensive medications in the treatment of chronic type B TAD to be eligible for inclusion. Total mortality rate was the primary outcome of this review. Secondary outcomes included total non‐fatal adverse events relating to TADs and number of people not requiring surgical treatment.
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Insulin for glycaemic control in acute ischaemic stroke
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing intensively monitored insulin therapy versus usual care in adults with acute ischaemic stroke.
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Endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm
Prospective randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing EVAR with OSR in individuals with AAA considered fit for surgery. and comparing EVAR with best medical care in individuals considered unfit for surgery. We excluded studies with inadequate data or using an inadequate randomisation technique.
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Antibiotics and antiseptics for venous leg ulcers
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) recruiting people with venous leg ulceration, evaluating at least one systemic antibiotic, topical antibiotic or topical antiseptic that reported an objective assessment of wound healing (e.g. time to complete healing, frequency of complete healing, change in ulcer surface area) were eligible for inclusion. Selection decisions were made by two review authors while working independently.
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Intravascular brachytherapy for peripheral vascular disease
Randomised controlled trials of the use of brachytherapy as an adjunct to the endovascular treatment of people with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) or stenosed bypass grafts of the iliac or infrainguinal arteries versus the procedure without brachytherapy.
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Treatment of hypertension in peripheral arterial disease
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of at least one anti‐hypertensive treatment against placebo or two anti‐hypertensive medications against each other, with interventions lasting at least one month. Trials had to include patients with symptomatic PAD.
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Immunosuppressive T‐cell antibody induction for heart transplant recipients
We included all randomised clinical trials (RCTs) assessing immunosuppressive T‐cell antibody induction for heart transplant recipients. Within individual trials, we required all participants to receive the same maintenance immunosuppressive therapy.
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Blood pressure targets for hypertension in people with diabetes mellitus
Randomized controlled trials comparing people with diabetes randomized to lower or to standard BP targets as previously defined, and providing data on any of the primary outcomes below.
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Corticosteroids for viral myocarditis
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of corticosteroids for viral myocarditis compared with no intervention, placebo, supportive therapy, antiviral agents therapy or conventional therapy, including trials of corticosteroids plus other treatment versus other treatment alone, irrespective of blinding, publication status, or language.
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Beta blockers for peripheral arterial disease
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the role of both selective (β1) and non‐selective (β1 and β2) beta blockers compared with placebo. We excluded trials that compared different types of beta blockers.
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Nitrates for acute heart failure syndromes
Randomised controlled trials comparing nitrates (isosorbide dinitrate and nitroglycerin) with alternative interventions (frusemide and morphine, frusemide alone, hydralazine, prenalterol, intravenous nesiritide and placebo) in the management of AHFS in adults aged 18 and over.
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Once versus twice daily low molecular weight heparin for the initial treatment of venous thromboembolism
Randomised clinical trials in which LMWH given once daily is compared with LMWH given twice daily for the initial treatment of VTE.
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Multidisciplinary rehabilitation following botulinum toxin and other focal intramuscular treatment for post‐stroke spasticity
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared MD rehabilitation (delivered by two or more disciplines in conjunction with medical input) following BoNT and other focal intramuscular treatments for post‐stroke spasticity with placebo, routinely available local services, or lower levels of intervention; or studies that compared MD rehabilitation in different settings, of different types, or at different levels of intensity. We excluded RCTs that assessed the effectiveness of unidisciplinary therapy (for example physiotherapy only) or a single modality (for example stretching, casting, electrical stimulation or splinting only). The primary outcomes were validated measures of activity level (active and passive function) according to the World Health Organization's International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health. Secondary outcomes included measures of symptoms, impairments, participation, QoL, impact on caregivers and adverse events.
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Occupational therapy for care home residents with stroke
Randomised controlled trials investigating the impact of an occupational therapy intervention for care home residents with stroke versus standard care.
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Early versus delayed mobilisation for aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage
We planned to include randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing early mobilisation (within four weeks after symptom onset) with delayed mobilisation (after four weeks).
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Continuous versus intermittent physiological monitoring for acute stroke
We included all randomised, cluster randomised and quasi‐randomised controlled trials comparing continuous monitoring with intermittent monitoring in people within three days of stroke onset. We excluded studies confounded by the delivery of care in different settings (that is studies in which the location of the intervention was not in the same ward in the two arms of the trial).
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Flavonoids for treating venous leg ulcers
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that investigated the efficacy of any flavonoid‐containing compound on venous leg ulcer healing in adults.
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Cholesterol‐reducing agents for aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared cholesterol‐reducing agents with control or placebo treatment in participants with aneurysmal SAH.
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Non‐pharmacological interventions for preventing secondary vascular events after stroke or transient ischemic attack
We included randomized controlled trials evaluating the use of non‐pharmacological interventions that included components traditionally used in cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programs in adults with stroke or TIA. Primary outcomes were a cluster of second stroke or myocardial infarction or vascular death. Secondary outcomes were (1) secondary vascular events: second stroke, myocardial infarction, and vascular death, as well as (2) vascular risk factors: blood pressure, body weight, lipid profile, insulin resistance and tobacco use. We also recorded adverse events such as exercise‐related musculoskeletal injuries or cardiovascular events.
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Physical rehabilitation for older people in long‐term care
Randomised studies comparing a rehabilitation intervention designed to maintain or improve physical function with either no intervention or an alternative intervention in older people (over 60 years) who have permanent long‐term care residency.
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Hypothermia for neuroprotection in children after cardiopulmonary arrest
We planned to include randomized and quasi‐randomized controlled trials comparing therapeutic hypothermia with normothermia or standard care in children, aged 24 hours to 18 years, after paediatric cardiopulmonary arrest.
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Wolbachia‐carrying Aedes mosquitoes for preventing dengue infection
Randomized controlled trials (RCTs), including cluster‐randomized controlled trials (cRCTs), conducted in dengue endemic or epidemic‐prone settings were eligible.We sought studies that investigated the impact of Wolbachia‐ carrying Aedes deployments on epidemiological or entomological dengue‐related outcomes, utilizing either the population replacement or population suppression strategy.
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Vaccines for preventing herpes zoster in older adults
We included studies involving healthy older adults (mean age 60 years or older). We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi‐RCTs comparing zoster vaccine (any dose and potency) versus any other type of intervention (e.g. varicella vaccine, antiviral medication), placebo, or no intervention (no vaccine). Outcomes were cumulative incidence of herpes zoster, adverse events (death, serious adverse events, systemic reactions, or local reaction occurring at any time after vaccination), and dropouts.
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Antiplatelet agents for the treatment of adults with COVID‐19
We followed standard Cochrane methodology. We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating antiplatelet agents for the treatment of COVID‐19 in adults with COVID‐19, irrespective of disease severity, gender or ethnicity.
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Balanced crystalloid solutions versus 0.9% saline for treating acute diarrhoea and severe dehydration in children
We included randomized controlled trials in children with severe dehydration due to acute diarrhoea comparing balanced solutions, such as Ringer's lactate or Plasma‐Lyte with 0.9% saline solution, for rapid rehydration.
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Therapeutics for treating mpox in humans
For the RCT review and the narrative review, any therapeutic for the treatment of mpox in humans was eligible for inclusion, including tecovirimat, brincidofovir, cidofovir, NIOCH‐14, immunomodulators, and vaccine immune globulin.Randomized controlled trials reviewStudies were eligible for the main review if they were of randomized controlled design and investigated the effectiveness or safety of therapeutics in human mpox infection.Non‐randomized studies reviewStudies were eligible for inclusion in the review of non‐randomized studies if they were of non‐randomized design and contained data concerning the safety of any therapeutic in human mpox infection.
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Hyperimmune immunoglobulin for people with COVID‐19
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated hIVIG for COVID‐19, irrespective of disease severity, age, gender or ethnicity.We excluded studies that included populations with other coronavirus diseases (severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) or Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS)), as well as studies that evaluated standard immunoglobulin.
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Remdesivir for the treatment of COVID‐19
We followed standard Cochrane methodology.We included RCTs evaluating remdesivir and standard care for the treatment of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection compared to standard care plus/minus placebo irrespective of disease severity, gender, ethnicity, or setting.We excluded studies that evaluated remdesivir for the treatment of other coronavirus diseases.
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Systemic corticosteroids for the treatment of COVID‐19: Equity‐related analyses and update on evidence
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated systemic corticosteroids for people with COVID‐19.We included any type or dose of systemic corticosteroids and the following comparisons: systemic corticosteroids plus standard care versus standard care, different types, doses and timings (early versus late) of corticosteroids.We excluded corticosteroids in combination with other active substances versus standard care, topical or inhaled corticosteroids, and corticosteroids for long‐COVID treatment.
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Ivermectin for preventing and treating COVID‐19
We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing ivermectin to standard of care, placebo, or another proven intervention for treatment of people with confirmed COVID‐19 diagnosis, irrespective of disease severity or treatment setting, and for prevention of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. Co‐interventions had to be the same in both study arms.For this review update, we reappraised eligible trials for research integrity: only RCTs prospectively registered in a trial registry according to WHO guidelines for clinical trial registration were eligible for inclusion.
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SARS‐CoV‐2‐neutralising monoclonal antibodies to prevent COVID‐19
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated SARS‐CoV‐2‐neutralising mAbs, including mAb fragments, alone or combined, versus an active comparator, placebo, or no intervention, for pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) of COVID‐19. We excluded studies of SARS‐CoV‐2‐neutralising mAbs to treat COVID‐19, as these are part of another review.
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Janus kinase inhibitors for the treatment of COVID‐19
We included RCTs that compared systemic JAK inhibitors plus standard of care to standard of care alone (plus/minus placebo) for the treatment of individuals with COVID‐19. We used the WHO definitions of illness severity for COVID‐19.
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Inhaled corticosteroids for the treatment of COVID‐19
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating inhaled corticosteroids for COVID‐19, irrespective of disease severity, age, sex, or ethnicity.We included the following interventions: any type or dose of inhaled corticosteroids. We included the following comparison: inhaled corticosteroids plus standard care versus standard care (with or without placebo).We excluded studies examining nasal or topical steroids.
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Antibiotics for the treatment of COVID‐19
RCTs were included that compared antibiotics with each other, no treatment, standard of care alone, placebo, or another proven intervention, for treatment of people with confirmed COVID‐19, irrespective of disease severity, treated in the in‐ or outpatient settings.Co‐interventions had to be the same in both study arms. We excluded studies comparing antibiotics to other pharmacological interventions with unproven efficacy.
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Colchicine for the treatment of COVID‐19
We included randomised controlled trials evaluating colchicine for the treatment of people with COVID‐19, irrespective of disease severity, age, sex, or ethnicity.We excluded studies investigating the prophylactic effects of colchicine for people without severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection but at high risk of SARS‐CoV‐2 exposure.
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SARS‐CoV‐2‐neutralising monoclonal antibodies for treatment of COVID‐19
We included studies that evaluated SARS‐CoV‐2‐neutralising mAbs, alone or combined, compared to an active comparator, placebo, or no intervention, to treat people with COVID‐19. We excluded studies on prophylactic use of SARS‐CoV‐2‐neutralising mAbs.
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Impact of diagnostic strategies for tuberculosis using lateral flow urine lipoarabinomannan assay in people living with HIV
Randomized controlled trials that compared a diagnostic intervention including LF‐LAM with diagnostic strategies that used smear microscopy, mycobacterial culture, a nucleic acid amplification test such as Xpert MTB/RIF, or a combination of these tests. We included adults (≥ 15 years) living with HIV.
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Minimally invasive treatments for lower urinary tract symptoms in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia: a network meta‐analysis
We included parallel‐group randomized controlled trials assessing the effects of the following minimally invasive treatments, compared to TURP or sham treatment, on men with moderate to severe LUTS due to BPH: convective radiofrequency water vapor therapy (CRFWVT); prostatic arterial embolization (PAE); prostatic urethral lift (PUL); temporary implantable nitinol device (TIND); and transurethral microwave thermotherapy (TUMT).
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Effect of mass deworming with antihelminthics for soil‐transmitted helminths during pregnancy
We included all prospective randomised controlled trials evaluating the effect of administration of antihelminthics versus placebo or no treatment during the second or third trimester of pregnancy; both individual‐randomised and cluster‐randomised trials were eligible. We excluded quasi‐randomised trials and studies that were only available as abstracts with insufficient information.
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Topical microbicides for preventing sexually transmitted infections
We included randomised controlled trials of vaginal microbicides compared to placebo (except for nonoxynol‐9 because it is covered in related Cochrane Reviews). Eligible participants were sexually‐active non‐pregnant, WSM and MSM, who had no laboratory confirmed STIs.
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Topical antibiotic prophylaxis to reduce respiratory tract infections and mortality in adults receiving mechanical ventilation
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and cluster‐RCTs assessing the efficacy and safety of topical prophylactic antibiotic regimens in adults receiving intensive care and mechanical ventilation. The included studies compared topical plus systemic antibiotics versus placebo or no treatment; topical antibiotics versus no treatment; and topical plus systemic antibiotics versus systemic antibiotics.
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Use of antimicrobial mouthwashes (gargling) and nasal sprays by healthcare workers to protect them when treating patients with suspected or confirmed COVID‐19 infection
This is a question that urgently requires evidence, however at the present time we did not anticipate finding many completed randomised controlled trials (RCTs). We therefore planned to include the following types of studies: RCTs; quasi‐RCTs; non‐randomised controlled trials; prospective cohort studies; retrospective cohort studies; cross‐sectional studies; controlled before‐and‐after studies. We set no minimum duration for the studies.  We sought studies comparing any antimicrobial mouthwash and/or nasal spray (alone or in combination) at any concentration, delivered to HCWs, with or without the same intervention being given to the patients with COVID‐19.
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Antimicrobial mouthwashes (gargling) and nasal sprays administered to patients with suspected or confirmed COVID‐19 infection to improve patient outcomes and to protect healthcare workers treating them
This is a question that urgently requires evidence, however at the present time we did not anticipate finding many completed RCTs. We therefore planned to include the following types of studies: randomised controlled trials (RCTs); quasi‐RCTs; non‐randomised controlled trials; prospective cohort studies; retrospective cohort studies; cross‐sectional studies; controlled before‐and‐after studies. We set no minimum duration for the studies.  We sought studies comparing antimicrobial mouthwash and/or nasal spray (alone or in combination) at any concentration, delivered with any frequency or dosage to suspected/confirmed COVID‐19 patients.
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Video calls for reducing social isolation and loneliness in older people: a rapid review
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐RCTs (including cluster designs) were eligible for inclusion. We excluded all other study designs. The samples in included studies needed to have a mean age of at least 65 years. We included studies that included participants whether or not they were experiencing symptoms of loneliness or social isolation at baseline. Any intervention in which a core component involved the use of the internet to facilitate video calls or video conferencing through computers, smartphones or tablets with the intention of reducing loneliness or social isolation, or both, in older adults was eligible for inclusion. We included studies in the review if they reported self‐report measures of loneliness, social isolation, symptoms of depression or quality of life. Two review authors screened 25% of abstracts; a third review author resolved conflicts. A single review author screened the remaining abstracts. The second review author screened all excluded abstracts and we resolved conflicts by consensus or by involving a third review author. We followed the same process for full‐text articles.
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Shortened treatment regimens versus the standard regimen for drug‐sensitive pulmonary tuberculosis
We searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi‐RCTs that compared shorter‐duration regimens (less than six months) versus the standard six‐month regimen for people of all ages, irrespective of HIV status, who were newly diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis by positive sputum culture or GeneXpert, and with presumed or proven drug‐sensitive tuberculosis. The primary outcome of interest was relapse within two years of completion of anti‐tuberculosis treatment (ATT).
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Antibiotics for asymptomatic bacteriuria in pregnancy
Randomised controlled trials (RCT) comparing antibiotic treatment with placebo or no treatment in pregnant women with asymptomatic bacteriuria found on antenatal screening. Trials using a cluster‐RCT design and quasi‐RCTs were eligible for inclusion, as were trials published in abstract or letter form, but cross‐over studies were not.
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Intra‐pleural fibrinolytic therapy versus placebo, or a different fibrinolytic agent, in the treatment of adult parapneumonic effusions and empyema
Parallel‐group randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in adult patients with post‐pneumonic empyema or complicated parapneumonic effusions (excluding tuberculous effusions) who had not had prior surgical intervention or trauma comparing an intrapleural fibrinolytic agent (streptokinase, alteplase or urokinase) versus placebo or a comparison of two fibrinolytic agents.
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Rapid initiation of antiretroviral therapy for people living with HIV
We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared rapid ART versus standard care in people living with HIV. Children, adults, and adolescents from any setting were eligible for inclusion.
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Community‐based antibiotic delivery for possible serious bacterial infections in neonates in low‐ and middle‐income countries
We included randomised, quasi‐randomised and cluster‐randomised trials. For the first comparison, we included trials that compared antibiotics which were initiated and completed in the community to the standard hospital referral for neonatal PSBI in LMICs. For the second comparison, we included trials that compared simplified antibiotic regimens which relied more on oral antibiotics than intravenous antibiotics to the standard regimen of seven to 10 days of injectable penicillin/ampicillin with an injectable aminoglycoside delivered in the community to treat neonatal PSBI.
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Primary antifungal prophylaxis for cryptococcal disease in HIV‐positive people
Randomized controlled trials of adults and children, who are HIV‐positive with low CD4 counts, without a current or prior diagnosis of cryptococcal disease that compared any antifungal drug taken as primary prophylaxis to placebo or standard care.
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Early versus delayed antiretroviral treatment in HIV‐positive people with cryptococcal meningitis
We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared early versus delayed ART initiation in HIV‐positive people with cryptococcal meningitis. Children, adults, and adolescents from any setting were eligible for inclusion.
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Influenza vaccine for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
RCTs that compared live or inactivated virus vaccines with placebo, either alone or with another vaccine, in people with COPD.
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Interventions for necrotizing soft tissue infections in adults
RCTs conducted in hospital settings, that evaluated any medical or surgical treatment for adults with NSTI were eligible for inclusion. Eligible medical treatments included 1) comparisons between different antimicrobials or with placebo; 2) adjuvant therapies such as intravenous immunoglobulin (IGIV) therapy compared with placebo; no treatment; or other adjuvant therapies. Eligible surgical treatments included surgical debridement compared with amputation, immediate versus delayed intervention, or comparisons of number of interventions.RCTs of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy for NSTI were ineligible because HBO is the focus of another Cochrane Review.
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Interventions to increase influenza vaccination rates of those 60 years and older in the community
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and cluster‐RCTs of interventions to increase influenza vaccination in people aged 60 years or older in the community.
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Osmotic therapies added to antibiotics for acute bacterial meningitis
Randomised controlled trials testing any osmotic therapy in adults or children with acute bacterial meningitis.
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Antidepressants for depression in adults with HIV infection
We included randomized controlled trials of antidepressant drug therapy compared to placebo or another antidepressant drug class. Participants eligible for inclusion had to be aged 18 years and older, from any setting, and have both HIV and depression. Depression was defined according to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders or International Statistical Classification of Diseases criteria.
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Corticosteroids for pneumonia
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that assessed systemic corticosteroid therapy, given as adjunct to antibiotic treatment, versus placebo or no corticosteroids for adults and children with pneumonia.
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Macrolides for treatment of Haemophilus ducreyi infection in sexually active adults
Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing macrolides in different regimens or with other therapeutic alternatives for chancroid.
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Interventions to increase tuberculosis case detection at primary healthcare or community‐level services
Randomized and non‐randomized controlled studies comparing any intervention that aims to improve access to a tuberculosis diagnosis, with no intervention or an alternative intervention.
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Routine antibiotic prophylaxis after normal vaginal birth for reducing maternal infectious morbidity
We planned to include randomised or quasi‐randomised trials evaluating the use of prophylactic antibiotics versus placebo or no antibiotic prophylaxis. Trials using a cluster‐randomised design would have been eligible for inclusion, but we found none.In future updates of this review, we will include studies published in abstract form only, provided sufficient information is available to assess risks of bias. We will consider excluded abstracts for inclusion once the full publication is available, or the authors provide more information.Trials using a cross‐over design are not eligible for inclusion in this review.
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Procalcitonin to initiate or discontinue antibiotics in acute respiratory tract infections
We included RCTs of adult participants with ARIs who received an antibiotic treatment either based on a procalcitonin algorithm (PCT‐guided antibiotic stewardship algorithm) or usual care. We excluded trials if they focused exclusively on children or used procalcitonin for a purpose other than to guide initiation and duration of antibiotic treatment.
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Short‐course versus long‐course intravenous therapy with the same antibiotic for severe community‐acquired pneumonia in children aged two months to 59 months
Randomised controlled trials evaluating the efficacy of short‐course (two to three days) versus long‐course (five days) intravenous antibiotic therapy (alone or in combination with oral antibiotics) for severe pneumonia in children aged two months to 59 months. We excluded children with any other debilitating disease, including those infected with HIV. We also excluded children who had developed pneumonia during their hospital stay (i.e. with nosocomial infection). There was no restriction on the type of antibiotic used, the dose, or the frequency of dosing.
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Intravenous immunoglobulin for the treatment of childhood encephalitis
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing IVIG in addition to standard care versus standard care alone or placebo.
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Probiotics for preventing urinary tract infection in people with neuropathic bladder
All randomised controlled trials (RCTs), quasi‐RCTs and cross‐over RCTs looking at the use of probiotics for the prophylaxis of UTI in people with neuropathic bladders was considered for inclusion. Men, women and children of all ages with neuropathic bladders from neurological injury such as suprapontine, supra sacral and sacral aetiologies was included. All bladder management types, including reflex voiding, time voiding, indwelling and intermittent catheterization were eligible for this review.Studies comparing probiotics to placebo, no treatment or other non‐antibiotic prophylaxis was included. Studies comparing probiotics with antibiotics or in combination with antibiotics were excluded.
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Isoniazid for preventing tuberculosis in HIV‐infected children
We included trials of HIV‐positive children with and without known TB exposure, randomized to receive TB preventive treatment or placebo.
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Antibiotics for persistent cough or wheeze following acute bronchiolitis in children
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing antibiotics versus controls (placebo or no treatment) given in the post‐acute phase of bronchiolitis (> 14 days) for children younger than two years with a diagnosis of bronchiolitis.
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Zinc supplementation for the treatment of measles in children
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐RCTs evaluating the effects of zinc in reducing morbidity and mortality in children with measles.
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Haemophilus influenzae oral vaccination for preventing acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
We included randomised controlled trials comparing the effects of an oral monobacterial NTHi vaccine in adults with recurrent acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis or COPD when there was overt matching of the vaccine and placebo groups on clinical grounds. The selection criteria considered populations aged less than 65 years and those older than 65 years.
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Antibiotics for acute bronchitis
Randomised controlled trials comparing any antibiotic therapy with placebo or no treatment in acute bronchitis or acute productive cough, in people without underlying pulmonary disease.
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Pre‐admission antibiotics for suspected cases of meningococcal disease
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi‐RCTs comparing antibiotics versus placebo or no intervention, in people with suspected meningococcal infection, or different antibiotics administered before admission to hospital or confirmation of the diagnosis.
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Nasal decontamination for the prevention of surgical site infection in Staphylococcus aureus carriers
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) which enrolled S aureus carriers with any type of surgery and assessed the use of nasal decontamination with antiseptic/antibiotic properties were included in the review.
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Surgical versus non‐surgical management for pleural empyema
Randomised controlled trials that compared a surgical with a non‐surgical method of management for all age groups with pleural empyema.
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Effectiveness and safety of procalcitonin evaluation for reducing mortality in adults with sepsis, severe sepsis or septic shock
We included only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) testing PCT‐guided decisions in at least one of the comparison arms for adults (≥ 18 years old) with sepsis, severe sepsis or septic shock, according to international definitions and irrespective of the setting.
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Dressings for the prevention of surgical site infection
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing wound dressings with wound exposure (no dressing) or alternative wound dressings for the postoperative management of surgical wounds healing by primary intention.
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Antiviral agents for infectious mononucleosis (glandular fever)
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing antivirals versus placebo or no treatment in IM. We included trials of immunocompetent participants of any age or sex with clinical and laboratory‐confirmed diagnosis of IM, who had symptoms for up to 14 days. Our primary outcomes were time to clinical recovery and adverse events and side effects of medication. Secondary outcomes included duration of abnormal clinical examination, complications, viral shedding, health‐related quality of life, days missing from school or work and economic outcomes.
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One dose per day compared to multiple doses per day of gentamicin for treatment of suspected or proven sepsis in neonates
All randomised or quasi‐randomised controlled trials comparing one dose per day ('once a day') compared to multiple doses per day ('multiple doses a day') of gentamicin to newborn infants.
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School‐based interventions for preventing HIV, sexually transmitted infections, and pregnancy in adolescents
We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs), both individually randomized and cluster‐randomized, that evaluated school‐based programmes aimed at improving the sexual and reproductive health of adolescents.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Topical antibiotics for preventing surgical site infection in wounds healing by primary intention
All randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐randomised trials that assessed the effects of topical antibiotics (any formulation, including impregnated dressings) in people with surgical wounds healing by primary intention were eligible for inclusion.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Fluid therapy for acute bacterial meningitis
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of differing volumes of fluid given in the initial management of bacterial meningitis were eligible for inclusion.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Antibiotics for ventilator‐associated pneumonia
Two review authors independently assessed RCTs comparing empirical antibiotic treatments of VAP in adult patients, where VAP was defined as new‐onset pneumonia that developed more than 48 hours after endotracheal intubation. Physicians and researchers were not required to be blinded for inclusion in this review.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
HIV prevention advice for people with serious mental illness
We planned to include all randomised controlled trials focusing on HIV prevention advice versus standard care or comparing HIV prevention advice with other more focused methods of delivering care or information for people with serious mental illness.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Interventions for men and women with their first episode of genital herpes
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) on participants with first‐episode genital herpes. We excluded vaccination trials, and trials in which the primary objective assessed a complication of HSV infection.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Exercise prior to influenza vaccination for limiting influenza incidence and its related complications in adults
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of short‐ and long‐term exercise prior to influenza vaccination for the general adult population were eligible for inclusion.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Behavioral interventions for improving contraceptive use among women living with HIV
Studies evaluated a behavioral intervention for improving contraceptive use for family planning (FP). The comparison could have been another behavioral intervention, usual care, or no intervention. We also considered studies that compared HIV‐positive versus HIV‐negative women. We included non‐randomized studies as well as randomized controlled trials (RCTs).Primary outcomes were pregnancy and contraception use, e.g. uptake of a new method or improved use or continuation of current method. Secondary outcomes were knowledge of contraceptive effectiveness and attitude about contraception or a specific contraceptive method.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Corticosteroids for treating nerve damage in leprosy
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐RCTs of corticosteroids for nerve damage in leprosy. The comparators were no treatment, placebo treatment, or a different corticosteroid regimen.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Antiepileptic drugs for the primary and secondary prevention of seizures in viral encephalitis
Randomised and quasi‐randomised controlled trials in which patients were assigned to a treatment or control group (placebo or no drug).
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Fixed‐dose combinations of drugs versus single‐drug formulations for treating pulmonary tuberculosis
Randomized controlled trials that compared the use of FDCs with single‐drug formulations in adults (aged 15 years or more) newly diagnosed with pulmonary TB.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Systemic antifungal therapy for tinea capitis in children
RCTs of systemic antifungal therapy in children with normal immunity under the age of 18 with tinea capitis confirmed by microscopy, growth of fungi (dermatophytes) in culture or both.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Corticosteroids for managing tuberculous meningitis
Randomized controlled trials that compared corticosteroid plus antituberculous treatment with antituberculous treatment alone in people with clinically diagnosed tuberculous meningitis and included death or disability as outcome measures.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Early removal versus expectant management of central venous catheters in neonates with bloodstream infection
Randomised and quasi‐randomised controlled trials that compared early removal versus expectant management of central venous catheters in neonates with bloodstream infections.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Urinary alkalisation for symptomatic uncomplicated urinary tract infection in women
All randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐RCTs on the use of (any) urinary alkalisers (either exclusively or non‐exclusively) for the symptomatic treatment of uncomplicated UTI amongst women aged 16 and over, were included. Studies were eligible if they included patients whose diagnosis of UTI was decided by symptoms alone, or positive urine dipstick test or urine culture; and patients with recurrent UTI, provided patients had no symptoms of UTI in the two weeks prior to the onset of symptoms that lead them to seek medical advice. Studies were ineligible if they studied patients with complicated UTIs; immune‐compromising conditions; acute pyelonephritis; or chronic conditions such as interstitial cystitis.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Antihelminthics in helminth‐endemic areas: effects on HIV disease progression
We searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared antihelminthic drugs with placebo or no intervention in HIV‐positive people.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Oral immunoglobulin for preventing necrotizing enterocolitis in preterm and low birth weight neonates
All randomized or quasi‐randomised controlled trials where oral immunoglobulins were used as prophylaxis against NEC in preterm (less than 37 weeks' gestation) or low birth weight (less than 2500 gram), or both, neonates.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Antibiotics for preventing suppurative complications from undifferentiated acute respiratory infections in children under five years of age
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi‐RCTs comparing antibiotic prescriptions with placebo or no treatment in children aged two months to 59 months with an undifferentiated ARI for up to seven days.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Antithrombin III for critically ill patients
We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) irrespective of publication status, date of publication, blinding status, outcomes published, or language. We contacted the investigators and the trial authors in order to retrieve missing data. In this updated review we include trials only published as abstracts.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Frequency of dressing changes for central venous access devices on catheter‐related infections
All randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the effect of the frequency of CVAD dressing changes on the incidence of catheter‐related infections on all patients in any healthcare setting.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Ivermectin versus albendazole or thiabendazole for Strongyloides stercoralis infection
Randomized controlled trials of ivermectin versus albendazole or thiabendazole for treating chronic strongyloides infection.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Antifungal agents for preventing fungal infections in non‐neutropenic critically ill patients
We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) (irrespective of language or publication status) comparing the use of untargeted treatment with any antifungal drug (either systemic or nonabsorbable) to placebo, no antifungal, or another antifungal agent in non‐neutropenic critically ill participants.