Systematic reviews can also be used to combine the results of observational studies. This may help to highlight a future type of intervention to be included in a randomised trial [5], or to explore www.selleckchem.com/products/CP-690550.html underlying aetiological questions looking at the association between risk factor(s) and the outcome of interest [6-8]. Systematic review is employed across a huge range of scientific disciplines, not only medicine, and may be used by researchers of all levels. Inhibitors,Modulators,Libraries Early career researchers (ECRs) may find themselves in a position where they decide to undertake a systematic review, for example a systematic review may form part or all of a PhD thesis. Systematic reviews are often a major piece of work, and may take considerable time to conduct.

However, the returns from such a piece of work are potentially considerable because they summarize all of the evidence in relation to a particular question. There are other advantages, for Inhibitors,Modulators,Libraries example there is no collection of primary data which can be costly and time-consuming, and review work gives a potentially broad exposure to a certain topic Inhibitors,Modulators,Libraries as well as epidemiological research in general. It is strongly advised that systematic reviews are carried out by at least two reviewers who work independently to screen abstracts, extract data and assess risk of bias, thereby reducing the chance of reviewer bias and increasing reliability. Those with no prior experience of systematic review may need considerable support and direction getting started with such a project. Therefore, we have aimed to put together a guidance article, aimed at ECRs, that sets out in simple terms how to get started with a systematic review.

This is not a comprehensive guide, but rather a useful starting point encompassing signposts to other resources. The process of systematic review may be applied to many types of study, including both observational and trial designs, and where data is collected using quantitative or qualitative approaches. For the purposes of this guide, we will be focusing on the process of reviewing observational Inhibitors,Modulators,Libraries studies which have used quantitative methods. Reviewing qualitative research may involve quite different methodology to that presented here, Inhibitors,Modulators,Libraries so alternative resources for guidance on this topic are suggested. A good starting point is the Cochrane Qualitative and Implementation Methods Group website [9]. Discussion Identifying the need for a systematic review Before embarking on a systematic review, it is important to check that you will not be duplicating existing research. You will therefore Carfilzomib need to perform a literature search specifically looking for a systematic review on your topic, as well as checking databases which prospectively record systematic reviews such as PROSPERO [10].