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Overview
Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses should state a clear research question and use transparent methods for literature search, study selection, quality assessment, data extraction, and statistical synthesis.
Methodology
Required Elements
- Databases searched, search period, and search terms
- Screening process, inclusion and exclusion criteria
- Data extraction method and risk of bias assessment tool
- PRISMA flow diagram of study selection process recommended
Meta-Analysis
Statistical Reporting
- Type of effect size and model selection (fixed vs. random effects)
- Heterogeneity assessment (e.g., I², Q-test)
- Sensitivity analysis and publication bias assessment
- Rationale for subgroup analysis or meta-regression, where applicable
Limits
Length & References
- Main text: up to 30,000 characters (excluding abstract and references)
- References: up to 50
- Tables and figures: up to 8 total
Materials and Methods
Methodological Requirements
- Describe study population, design, sample source, inclusion/exclusion criteria, and measurement instruments in sufficient detail
- Human studies: state ethics committee name, approval number, and informed consent method
- Clinical trials: provide registry name and registration number
- Statistical analysis: state software, version, significance level, tests used, effect sizes, and confidence intervals