Publications by year
In Press
Shaw E, Nunns M, Briscoe S, Anderson R, Thompson Coon J (In Press). A ’Rapid Best-Fit’ model for framework synthesis: using research objectives to structure analysis within a rapid review of qualitative evidence. Research Synthesis Methods
Moore D, Nunns M, Shaw L, Rogers M, Walker E, Ford T, Garside R, Ukoumunne O, Titman P, Shafran R, et al (In Press). Interventions to improve the mental health of children and young people with long-term physical conditions: Linked evidence syntheses. Health Technology Assessment
Briscoe S, Thompson Coon J, Melendez-Torres GJ, Abbott R, Shaw E, Nunns M, Garside R (In Press). Primary care clinicians’ perspectives on interacting with patients with gynaecological conditions or symptoms suggestive of gynaecological conditions: a scoping review of qualitative studies.
NIHR web reportAbstract:
Primary care clinicians’ perspectives on interacting with patients with gynaecological conditions or symptoms suggestive of gynaecological conditions: a scoping review of qualitative studies
Background: in recent years several reports have found that women do not feel listened to either by clinicians or at the system level when discussing health care concerns. In particular, women perceive that they are treated dismissively and that their symptoms are not taken seriously. This finding is reflected both in reports on health care conditions which specifically affect women, such as endometriosis, heavy menstrual bleeding and menopause, and in reports which explore failures of the health care system to listen and intervene when patients feel they are experiencing harm. A particular issue has been highlighted around women not feeling listened to by primary care clinicians, who are seen as the ‘gatekeepers’ to the more specialist care available in secondary care services. This can lead to patients feeling that their health concerns are being dismissed without due consideration. What is less well-known is why this occurs and in what circumstances, or indeed to what extent primary care clinicians perceive that there are problems around listening to women patients.
In order to better understand this issue from the perspective of primary care clinicians, we were asked to carry out a scoping review of evidence on primary care clinicians’ views on listening to and, more broadly, interacting with women patients, including with specific groups of women patients such as ethnic minority women, LGBTQ+, older/younger and disabled women. Following initial exploratory work, we developed a protocol for a scoping review of the qualitative research evidence with the following aim and research questions.
Aim: to identify and summarise qualitative evidence on primary care clinicians’ perspectives on interacting with patients with gynaecological conditions or symptoms suggestive of gynaecological conditions.
Research questions:
1. What evidence is there about primary care clinicians’ perspectives on interacting with patients with gynaecological conditions or symptoms suggestive of gynaecological conditions?
2. What key themes have been raised about challenges of interacting with patients with gynaecological conditions or symptoms suggestive of gynaecological conditions?
Findings: Twenty-three papers, from 18 unique studies, were included in the qualitative scoping review. Most papers (n=8) were about clinicians’ experiences with diagnosing and managing endometriosis, with smaller numbers of papers discussing menopause (n=4), menorrhagia (n=3), polycystic ovary syndrome (n=3) and chronic pelvic pain (n=2). Infertility disease, menstrual disorders and premenstrual symptoms each were discussed in one paper. The papers reported data collected in the UK (n=8), Australia (n=7), US (n=3), Netherlands (n=2), Sweden (n=2) and Norway (n=1). Primary care clinicians who participated in the studies included GPs, nurse practitioners, internists/family practitioners, pharmacists and a community gynaecologist. GPs were included in the majority of papers (n=20).
We also identified a selection of themes and subthemes on or related to the challenge of interacting with patients with gynaecological conditions or symptoms suggestive of gynaecological conditions. Subthemes were organised within four thematic ‘levels’: the individual clinician; structural and organisational factors; community and external factors; and factors specific to gynaecological conditions and symptoms.
Abstract.
Anderson R, Booth A, Eastwood A, Rodgers M, Shaw E, Thompson Coon J, Briscoe S, Cantrell A, Chambers D, Goyder E, et al (In Press). Synthesis for health services and policy: the craft and science of question formulation and scoping.
Health Services and Delivery Research,
TBC, 1-1.
Abstract:
Synthesis for health services and policy: the craft and science of question formulation and scoping
Background:
For systematic reviews to be rigorous, deliverable and useful they need a well-defined review question. Scoping for a review also requires the specification of clear inclusion criteria and planned synthesis methods. Guidance is lacking on how to develop these, especially within the context of undertaking rapid and responsive systematic reviews to inform health services and health policy.
Objective:
This report describes and discusses the experiences of review scoping of three commissioned research centres that conducted evidence syntheses to inform health and social care organisation, delivery and policy in the UK, between 2017 and 2020.
Data sources:
Researcher recollection, project meeting minutes, e-mail correspondence with stakeholders, and scoping searches; from allocation of a review topic through to review protocol agreement.
Methods:
We produced eight descriptive case studies of selected reviews from the three teams. From these we identified key issues that shape the processes of scoping and question formulation for evidence synthesis. The issues were then discussed and lessons drawn.
Findings:
Across the eight diverse case studies we identified 14 recurrent issues that were important in shaping the scoping processes and formulating a review’s questions. These were ‘consultative issues’, relating to securing input from review commissioners, policy customers, experts, patients and other stakeholders: managing and deciding priorities; reconciling different priorities/perspectives; achieving buy-in and engagement; educating the end-user about synthesis processes and products, and; managing stakeholder expectations. There were ‘interface issues’ relating to the interaction between review team and potential review users: identifying the niche/gap and optimising value; assuring and balancing rigour/reliability/relevance, and; assuring transferability/applicability of study evidence to specific policy/service user contexts. There were also ‘technical issues’ associated with the methods and conduct of the review: choosing the method(s) of synthesis; balancing fixed versus fluid review questions/components/definitions; taking stock of what research already exists; Mapping vs Scoping vs Reviewing; scoping/relevance as a continuous process not just at initial stage, and; calibrating general versus specific and broad versus deep coverage of topics.
Limitations:
As a retrospective joint reflection by review teams on their experiences of scoping processes, this report is not based on prospectively collected research data. Also, our evaluations were not externally validated by, for example, policy and service evidence users or patients and the public.
Conclusions:
We have summarised our reflections on scoping from this programme of reviews as 14 common issues and 28 practical ‘lessons learned’. Effective scoping of rapid, responsive reviews extends beyond information exchange and technical procedures for specifying a ‘gap’ in the evidence. These considerations work alongside social processes, in particular the building of relationships and shared understanding between reviewers, research commissioners and potential review users that may be reflective of consultancy, negotiation, and co-production models of research and information use.
Funding:
Commissioned by the National Institute of Health Research Heath Services and Delivery Research programme as NIHR132708 (including work from Award IDs:. 16/47/11, 16/47/17, 16/47/22).
Abstract.
2023
Shaw E, Briscoe S, Orr N, Nunns M, Boddy K, Turner M, Thompson Coon J, Melendez-Torres GJ, Garside R (2023). Effectiveness of interventions to reduce carbon-emissions within secondary healthcare: Systematic review and narrative synthesis.
Briscoe S, Abbott R, Lawal H, Shaw L, Coon JT (2023). Feasibility and desirability of screening search results from Google Search exhaustively for systematic reviews: a cross‐case analysis.
Research Synthesis Methods,
14(3), 427-437.
Abstract:
Feasibility and desirability of screening search results from Google Search exhaustively for systematic reviews: a cross‐case analysis
AbstractA commonly reported challenge of using Google Search to identify studies for a systematic review is the high number of results retrieved. Thus, ‘stopping rules’ are applied when screening, such as screening only the first 100 results. However, recent evidence shows that Google Search estimates a much higher number of results than the viewable number, raising the possibility of exhaustive screening. This study aimed to provide further evidence on the feasibility of screening search results from Google Search exhaustively, and to assess the desirability of this in terms of identifying studies for a systematic review. We conducted a cross‐case analysis of the search results of eight Google Search searches from two systematic reviews. Feasibility of exhaustive screening was ascertained by calculating the viewable number of results. Desirability was ascertained according to: (1) the distribution of studies within the results, irrespective of relevance to a systematic review; (2) the distribution of studies which met the inclusion criteria for the two systematic reviews. The estimated number of results across the eight searches ranged from 342,000 to 72,300,000. The viewable number ranged from 272 to 364. Across the eight searches the distribution of studies was highest in the first 100 results. However, the lowest ranking relevant studies were ranked 227th and 215th for the two systematic reviews. One study per review was identified uniquely from searching Google Search, both within the first 100 results. The findings suggest it is feasible and desirable to screen Google Search results more extensively than commonly reported.
Abstract.
Shaw L, Nunns M, Briscoe S, Garside R, Turner M, Melendez-Torres GJ, Lawal HM, Coon JT (2023). Optimising the prescribing of drugs that may cause dependency: an evidence and gap map of systematic reviews.
J Health Serv Res Policy,
28(4), 271-281.
Abstract:
Optimising the prescribing of drugs that may cause dependency: an evidence and gap map of systematic reviews.
OBJECTIVES: We set out to map the quantitative and qualitative systematic review evidence available to inform the optimal prescribing of drugs that can cause dependency (benzodiazepines, opioids, non-benzodiazepine hypnotics, gabapentinoids and antidepressants). We also consider how this evidence can be used to inform decision-making in the patient care pathway for each type of medication. METHODS: Eight bibliographic databases were searched for the period 2010 to 2020. All included reviews were initially appraised using four items from the Collaboration for Environmental Evidence Synthesis Assessment Tool, with reviews that scored well on all items proceeding to full quality appraisal. Key characteristics of the reviews were tabulated, and each review was incorporated into an evidence and gap map based on a patient care pathway. The care pathway was based upon an amalgamation of existing NICE guidelines and feedback from clinical and patient stakeholders. RESULTS: We identified 80 relevant reviews and displayed them in an evidence and gap map. The evidence included in these reviews was predominantly of low overall quality. Areas where systematic reviews have been conducted include barriers and facilitators to the deprescribing of drugs that may cause dependency, although we identified little evidence exploring the experiences or evaluations of specific interventions to promote deprescribing. All medications of interest, apart from gabapentinoids, were included in at least one review. CONCLUSIONS: the evidence and gap map provides an interactive resource to support (i) policy developers and service commissioners to use evidence in the development and delivery of services for people receiving a prescription of drugs that may cause dependency, where withdrawal of medication may be appropriate, (ii) the clinical decision-making of prescribers and (iii) the commissioning of further research. The map can also be used to inform the commissioning of further systematic reviews. To address the concerns regarding the quality of the existing evidence based raised in this report, future reviews should be conducted according to best-practice guidelines. Systematic reviews focusing on evaluating interventions to promote deprescribing would be particularly beneficial, as would reviews focusing on addressing the paucity of evidence regarding the deprescription of gabapentinoids.
Abstract.
Author URL.
Shaw E, Lawal H, Briscoe S, Garside R, Thompson Coon J, Liabo K, Turner M, Nunns M, Melendez-Torres GJ (2023). Patient, Carer and Family Experiences of Seeking. Redress and Reconciliation Following a Life-Changing Event: Systematic Review of Qualitative. Evidence.
Nunns M, Febrey S, Buckland J, Abbott R, Whear R, Bethel A, Shaw E, Boddy K, Thompson Coon J, Melendez-Torres GJ, et al (2023). What is the quantity, quality and scope of recent network meta-analyses evaluating the effectiveness of Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists for weight loss in obese adults? Protocol for a scoping review of network meta-analyses.
2022
Coon JT, Orr N, Shaw L, Hunt H, Garside R, Nunns M, Gröppel-Wegener A, Whear B (2022). Bursting out of our bubble: using creative techniques to communicate within the systematic review process and beyond.
Systematic Reviews,
11(1).
Abstract:
Bursting out of our bubble: using creative techniques to communicate within the systematic review process and beyond
Abstract
. Background
. Increasing pressure to publicise research findings and generate impact, alongside an expectation from funding bodies to go beyond publication within academic journals, has generated interest in alternative methods of science communication.
. Our aim is to describe our experience of using a variety of creative communication tools, reflect on their use in different situations, enhance learning and generate discussion within the systematic review community.
.
. Methods
. Over the last 5 years, we have explored several creative communication tools within the systematic review process and beyond to extend dissemination beyond traditional academic mechanisms.
. Central to our approach is the co-production of a communication plan with potential evidence users which facilitates (i) the identification of key messages for different audiences, (ii) discussion of appropriate tools to communicate key messages and (iii) exploration of avenues to share them. We aim to involve evidence users in the production of a variety of outputs for each research project cognisant of the many ways in which individuals engage with information.
.
. Results
. Our experience has allowed us to develop an understanding of the benefits and challenges of a wide range of creative communication tools. For example, board games can be a fun way of learning, may flatten power hierarchies between researchers and research users and enable sharing of large amounts of complex information in a thought provoking way, but they are time and resource intensive both to produce and to engage with. Conversely, social media shareable content can be quick and easy to produce and to engage with but limited in the depth and complexity of shareable information.
.
. Discussion
. It is widely recognised that most stakeholders do not have time to invest in reading large, complex documents; creative communication tools can be a used to improve accessibility of key messages. Furthermore, our experience has highlighted a range of additional benefits of embedding these techniques within our project processes e.g. opening up two-way conversations with end-users of research to discuss the implications of findings.
.
Abstract.
Abbott R, Bethel A, Rogers M, Whear R, Orr N, Shaw L, Stein K, Thompson Coon J (2022). Characteristics, quality and volume of the first 5 months of the COVID-19 evidence synthesis infodemic: a meta-research study.
BMJ Evid Based Med,
27(3), 169-177.
Abstract:
Characteristics, quality and volume of the first 5 months of the COVID-19 evidence synthesis infodemic: a meta-research study.
OBJECTIVE: the academic and scientific community has reacted at pace to gather evidence to help and inform about COVID-19. Concerns have been raised about the quality of this evidence. The aim of this review was to map the nature, scope and quality of evidence syntheses on COVID-19 and to explore the relationship between review quality and the extent of researcher, policy and media interest. DESIGN AND SETTING: a meta-research: systematic review of reviews. INFORMATION SOURCES: PubMed, Epistemonikos COVID-19 evidence, the Cochrane Library of Systematic Reviews, the Cochrane COVID-19 Study Register, EMBASE, CINAHL, Web of Science Core Collection and the WHO COVID-19 database, searched between 10 June 2020 and 15 June 2020. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: Any peer-reviewed article reported as a systematic review, rapid review, overview, meta-analysis or qualitative evidence synthesis in the title or abstract addressing a research question relating to COVID-19. Articles described as meta-analyses but not undertaken as part of a systematic or rapid review were excluded. STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION: Abstract and full text screening were undertaken by two independent reviewers. Descriptive information on review type, purpose, population, size, citation and attention metrics were extracted along with whether the review met the definition of a systematic review according to six key methodological criteria. For those meeting all criteria, additional data on methods and publication metrics were extracted. RISK OF BIAS: for articles meeting all six criteria required to meet the definition of a systematic review, AMSTAR-2 ((A MeaSurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews, version 2.0) was used to assess the quality of the reported methods. RESULTS: 2334 articles were screened, resulting in 280 reviews being included: 232 systematic reviews, 46 rapid reviews and 2 overviews. Less than half reported undertaking critical appraisal and a third had no reproducible search strategy. There was considerable overlap in topics, with discordant findings. Eighty-eight of the 280 reviews met all six systematic review criteria. of these, just 3 were rated as of moderate or high quality on AMSTAR-2, with the majority having critical flaws: only a third reported registering a protocol, and less than one in five searched named COVID-19 databases. Review conduct and publication were rapid, with 52 of the 88 systematic reviews reported as being conducted within 3 weeks, and a half published within 3 weeks of submission. Researcher and media interest, as measured by altmetrics and citations, was high, and was not correlated with quality. DISCUSSION: This meta-research of early published COVID-19 evidence syntheses found low-quality reviews being published at pace, often with short publication turnarounds. Despite being of low quality and many lacking robust methods, the reviews received substantial attention across both academic and public platforms, and the attention was not related to the quality of review methods. INTERPRETATION: Flaws in systematic review methods limit the validity of a review and the generalisability of its findings. Yet, by being reported as 'systematic reviews', many readers may well regard them as high-quality evidence, irrespective of the actual methods undertaken. The challenge especially in times such as this pandemic is to provide indications of trustworthiness in evidence that is available in 'real time'. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42020188822.
Abstract.
Author URL.
Briscoe S, Thompson Coon J, Melendez-Torres GJ, Abbott R, Shaw E, Nunns M, Garside R (2022).
Primary care clinicians’ perspectives on interacting with patients with gynaecological conditions or symptoms suggestive of gynaecological conditions: a scoping review of qualitative studies.Abstract:
Primary care clinicians’ perspectives on interacting with patients with gynaecological conditions or symptoms suggestive of gynaecological conditions: a scoping review of qualitative studies
Abstract.
Briscoe S, Thompson Coon J, Melendez-Torres GJ, Abbott R, Shaw E, Nunns M, Garside R (2022).
Primary care clinicians’ perspectives on interacting with patients with gynaecological conditions or symptoms suggestive of gynaecological conditions: a scoping review of qualitative studies. National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Policy Research Programme.
Abstract:
Primary care clinicians’ perspectives on interacting with patients with gynaecological conditions or symptoms suggestive of gynaecological conditions: a scoping review of qualitative studies
Abstract.
Shaw E, Nunns M, Spicer S, Lawal H, Briscoe S, Melendez-Torres GJ, Garside R, Liabo K, Thompson Coon J (2022).
What multi-disciplinary delivery models for Occupational Health services are effective for whom? an umbrella review. NIHR Policy Research Programme.
Abstract:
What multi-disciplinary delivery models for Occupational Health services are effective for whom? an umbrella review
Abstract.
2021
Shaw E, Nunns M, Briscoe S, Melendez-Torres GJ, Kneale D, McGrath J, Hemsley A, Lovegrove C, Thompson Coon J (2021). Impact of interventions to improve recovery of older adults following planned hospital admission on quality of life following discharge: linked evidence synthesis. Protocol.
Walker E, Shaw E, Nunns M, Moore D, Thompson Coon J (2021). No evidence synthesis about me without me: Involving young people in the conduct and dissemination of a complex evidence synthesis.
Health Expect,
24 Suppl 1(Suppl 1), 122-133.
Abstract:
No evidence synthesis about me without me: Involving young people in the conduct and dissemination of a complex evidence synthesis.
OBJECTIVES: to describe and reflect on the methods and influence of involvement of young people with lived experience within a complex evidence synthesis. STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING: Linked syntheses of quantitative and qualitative systematic reviews of evidence about interventions to improve the mental health of children and young people (CYP) with long-term physical conditions (LTCs). METHODS: Involvement was led by an experienced patient and public involvement in research lead. Young people with long-term physical conditions and mental health issues were invited to join a study-specific Children and Young People's Advisory Group (CYPAG). The CYPAG met face to face on four occasions during the project with individuals continuing to contribute to dissemination following report submission. RESULTS: Eight young people joined the CYPAG. Their views and experiences informed (a) a systematic review evaluating the effectiveness of interventions intended to improve the mental health of CYP with LTCs, (b) a systematic review exploring the experiences of interventions intended to improve the mental well-being of CYP with LTCs and (c) an overarching synthesis. The CYPAG greatly contributed to the team's understanding and appreciation of the wider context of the research. The young people found the experience of involvement empowering and felt they would use the knowledge they had gained about the research process in the future. CONCLUSION: Creating an environment that enabled meaningful engagement between the research team and the CYPAG had a beneficial influence on the young people themselves, as well as on the review process and the interpretation, presentation and dissemination of findings.
Abstract.
Author URL.
Thompson Coon J, Nunns M, Shaw E, Briscoe S, Liabo K, Garside R, Melendez-Torres GJ, turner M (2021).
Optimising prescribing of drugs to prevent CVD and drugs that cause dependency: an evidence-gap map.Abstract:
Optimising prescribing of drugs to prevent CVD and drugs that cause dependency: an evidence-gap map
Abstract.
Briscoe S, Shaw E, Nunns M, Thompson Coon J, Melendez-Torres GJ, Garside R (2021). Primary care clinicians’ perspectives on interacting with patients with gynaecological conditions or symptoms suggestive of gynaecological conditions: Protocol for a scoping review.
Thompson G, Zhelev Z, Peters J, Khalid S, Briscoe S, Shaw L, Nunns M, Ludman S, Hyde C (2021). Symptom scores in the diagnosis of pediatric cow's milk protein allergy: a systematic review.
Pediatr Allergy Immunol,
32(7), 1497-1507.
Abstract:
Symptom scores in the diagnosis of pediatric cow's milk protein allergy: a systematic review.
BACKGROUND: Cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA) is an immune-mediated allergic response to proteins in milk that is common in infants. Broad CMPA symptoms make diagnosis a challenge, particularly in primary care. Symptom scores may improve a clinician's awareness of symptoms, indicating a need for further testing. This systematic review examined the development and evaluation of such symptom scores for use in infants. METHODS: CENTRAL, MEDLINE, EMBASE and CINAHL databases were searched from inception to 3 December 2019 (Updated 14 November 2020) for diagnostic accuracy studies, randomised controlled trials, observational studies, economic evaluations, qualitative studies and studies reporting development of the tools. Data were not suitable for meta-analysis due to clinical and methodological heterogeneity, so were narratively synthesised. RESULTS: We found two symptom scores evaluated in one and fourteen studies, respectively. Estimated sensitivity and specificity ranged from 37% to 98% and 38% to 93%. The evaluations of each tool were at high risk of bias or failed to address issues such as clinical and cost-effectiveness. CONCLUSIONS: Estimates of accuracy of symptom scores for CMPA offered so far should be interpreted cautiously. Rigorous, conflict-free research based on well-defined roles for the tools is urgently required.
Abstract.
Author URL.
Shaw EH, Nunns M, Briscoe S, Ahuja L, Price A, Bethel A, Shaw N, Anderson R, Thompson Coon J (2021). What is the volume, diversity and nature of recent, robust evidence for the use of peer support in health and social care? Protocol for a systematic evidence map Version 2: 24th May 2021.
Abstract:
What is the volume, diversity and nature of recent, robust evidence for the use of peer support in health and social care? Protocol for a systematic evidence map Version 2: 24th May 2021
Evaluating the potential of peer support is receiving abundant attention. This is in response to the increasing financial pressures on NHS, which has led health and social care sector to realise the importance of enabling patients and carers to support themselves more effectively. While there is strong evidence on effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of peer support intervention, it is currently not clear how future research could contribute in better understanding peer support interventions. Also, limited synthesised literature is available on which method of delivery of peer support may be the most effective in achieving positive patient outcomes and in terms of costs incurred. Thus, we aim to systematically map the volume, diversity and nature of recent, robust evidence for the use of peer support interventions in health and social care. We will conduct the systematic mapping in two stages: in stage 1 we will map systematic reviews of peer support, and in stage 2 we will map randomised controlled trials and health economic studies of peer support interventions that have not been included in recent systematic reviews. We will search several databases: MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Social Policy and Practice, HMIC, CINAHL, ASSIA and the Campbell Library. Supplementary web searches will be conducted. Results will be limited to English language studies conducted in high-income countries. Stage 1 search will be date limited from 2015 to-date. The date cut-off for the stage 2 searches will be determined following the completion of stage 1. Eligible studies will be those that involve users of adult services with a defined health and/or social care need accessing peer support delivered in any format (such as face-to-face, online, group, individual, mixed modes etc.), delivered by paid or unpaid peer supporters. Any comparator will be eligible for inclusion and all outcomes are of interest. In stage 1 of the review, high quality, recently published systematic reviews that include comparative studies (RCTs, non-randomised controlled trials, controlled and uncontrolled before-and-after trials and interrupted time series designs) evaluating the effectiveness and/or cost-effectiveness of peer support interventions will be included. The quality of all systematic reviews identified as eligible at stage 1 will be appraised using the AMSTAR2 quality appraisal tool. At stage 2. We will use the Cochrane Risk of Bias (ROB) tool and the CHEC list for assessing risk of bias of RCTs and the quality of economic evaluations, respectively. Following data extraction using EPPI Reviewer 4, studies will be entered into an interactive evidence map to visually represent the distribution of evidence across health and social care domains. The map will have multiple layers, such that studies can be identified by population group, type of peer support and outcome. We expect that by conducting this review, we will be able to direct users to existing evidence, funders to existing gaps, and reviewers to pockets of evidence that could be reviewed to help decision making. It may also be possible to use the map to identify research questions that cut across settings, populations and interventions that would help us to understand how to use peer support interventions most effectively.
Abstract.
2020
Nunns M, John JB, McGrath JS, Shaw L, Briscoe S, Thompson Coon J, Hemsley A, Lovegrove CJ, Thomas D, Mythen MG, et al (2020). Evaluating enhanced recovery after surgery: time to cover new ground and discover the missing patient voice.
Perioperative Medicine,
9(1).
Abstract:
Evaluating enhanced recovery after surgery: time to cover new ground and discover the missing patient voice
AbstractMulticomponent peri-operative interventions offer to accelerate patient recovery and improve cost-effectiveness. The recent National Institute of Health Research-commissioned evidence synthesis review by Nunns et al. considers the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of all types of multicomponent interventions for older adults undergoing elective inpatient surgery. Enhanced recovery programmes (ERPs) were the most commonly evaluated intervention. An association between ERPs and decreased length of stay was observed, whilst complication rates and time to recovery were static or sometimes reduced. Important areas which lack research in the context of ERPs are patient-reported outcome measures, patients with complex needs and assessment of factors pertaining to successful ERP implementation. The next generation of ERP studies should seek to develop our understanding in these key areas.
Abstract.
Shaw E, Nunns M, Briscoe S, Anderson R, Thompson Coon J (2020). Evidence for specialist treatment of people with acquired brain injury in secure psychiatric services: systematic review and narrative synthesis., NIHR Health Services and Delivery Research Topic Report.
Briscoe S, Nunns M, Shaw L (2020). How do Cochrane authors conduct web searching to identify studies? Findings from a cross‐sectional sample of Cochrane Reviews.
Health Information & Libraries Journal,
37(4), 293-318.
Abstract:
How do Cochrane authors conduct web searching to identify studies? Findings from a cross‐sectional sample of Cochrane Reviews
AbstractBackgroundSearching the World Wide Web using search engines and websites can be conducted to identify studies for systematic reviews. When searching to support systematic reviews, the searcher faces challenges in using the basic search interfaces of most search engines and websites.ObjectivesTo describe and evaluate current practice of web searching in a cross‐sectional sample of Cochrane Reviews. The study also describes the stated aims of web searching, i.e. the identification of published or unpublished studies or both.MethodsA six‐month cross‐sectional sample of Cochrane Reviews was identified via the Cochrane Library. Reviews were inspected for detail about web searching. Findings were described and evaluated using a framework of key principles for web searching.Results423 Cochrane Reviews published August 2016–January 2017 were identified of which 61 (14%) reported web searching. Web searches were typically simplified versions of the bibliographic database search. Advanced and iterative approaches were not widely used. Google Search and Google Scholar were the most popular search engines. Most reports stated identification of grey literature as their aim.ConclusionBasic web search interfaces necessitate simple searches. However, there is scope to use more diverse search features and techniques and a greater variety of search engines.
Abstract.
Shaw E, Nunns M, Briscoe S, Thompson Coon J, Melendez-Torres GJ, Garside R (2020). Optimal prescribing of drugs to prevent CVD and drugs that cause dependency: an evidence gap map.
Price A, Ahuja L, Bramwell C, Briscoe S, Shaw E, Nunns M, O'Rourke G, Baron S, Anderson R (2020). Research evidence on different strengths-based approaches within adult social work: a systematic review.
HS&DR Evidence Synthesis Centre Topic Report (peer-reviewed), 1-157.
Abstract:
Research evidence on different strengths-based approaches within adult social work: a systematic review
Background
A ‘strengths-based approach’ focusses on peoples’ goals and resources rather than their problems. Social care professionals and organisations are striving to practise in a strengths-based way and since the Care Act of 2014 it is an even stronger requirement. However, there are challenges in implementing strengths-based approaches into practise, and uncertainty remains about their effectiveness.
Objective
To summarise research evidence on the effectiveness and the implementation of different strengths-based approaches within adult social work in the UK.
Data sources
We searched seven databases: MEDLINE ALL, PsycINFO, Social Policy and Practice, HMIC, CINAHL, ASSIA and the Campbell Library. Supplementary web searches were conducted. No date or language limits were used.
Review methods
Eligible studies were about adults (≥18 years) being supported or assessed by social workers; or about initiatives involving adult social care teams. For the effectiveness question, outcomes could be directly related to people’s individual outcomes or outcomes at the level of families or communities. The Cochrane Effective Practice and Organisation of Care group’s Risk of Bias Tool was chosen to appraise the quality of effectiveness studies, and qualitative implementation studies were assessed using the Wallace criteria. Findings were tabulated and analysed using framework synthesis, based on the Consolidated Framework of Implementation Research (CFIR). Studies that were not synthesised were summarised descriptively.
Findings
Of 5,030 studies screened, none met our inclusion criteria for the effectiveness question. Fifteen qualitative or mixed methods studies met the criteria for the implementation question, six of which were assessed as ‘good quality’. Seven examined Making Safeguarding Personal (MSP) and the remaining eight studies examined Local Area Coordination, Solution Focused Therapy, Family Group Conferencing, Asset-based Community Development, Strengths-based with Relationship-based Approach, Asset-based approaches, and Motivational Interviewing.
Seven studies on Making Safeguarding Personal (MSP), were synthesised into the following themes of implementation factors: 1) MSP as an intervention: seen as initially demanding but with long-term advantages; required significant practice change; needed tailoring to local settings. 2) Culture and Settings: required broad cultural changes; ‘outward facing’ and smaller/specialist councils tended to find this easier. 3) Individual characteristics: enhancing the knowledge, skills and confidence of stakeholders in MSP facilitated delivery; depended on practitioner skill in engaging people being supported; and people’s willingness to engage. 4) Embedding and sustaining MSP: depended on strong leadership and active engagement at all levels; required extensive planning and shaping of safeguarding practice that was user-focussed.
For the remaining eight studies of seven strengths-based approaches, we provide a summary of their findings.
Limitations
Our findings are mainly limited by the lack of available evidence in the UK. Higher quality studies may have revealed richer explanations of implementation.
Conclusions
There is a lack of good quality research evidence evaluating the effectiveness or implementation of strengths-based approaches. The synthesis revealed a wide range of factors that enabled or inhibited successful implementation of Making Safeguarding Personal. These factors may have wider relevance for the implementation of other strengths-based models of social work practice.
Future work
Higher quality evaluations of different strengths-based social work models are required.
Study registration: PROSPERO CRD42020166870
Funding
Commissioned by the NIHR HS&DR programme as a review project (NIHR130867) within NIHR HS&DR programme, reference number 16/47/22.
Abstract.
Price A, Ahuja L, Bramwell C, Briscoe S, Shaw L, Nunns M, O'Rourke G, Baron S, Anderson R (2020). Research evidence on different strengths-based approaches within adult social work: a systematic review., NIHR.
Shaw E, Nunns M, Briscoe S, Thompson Coon J, Anderson R (2020). What is the evidence for the need for specialist treatment of people with acquired brain injury in secure psychiatric services? Protocol for a systematic review.
2019
Thompson Coon J, Gwernan‐Jones R, Garside R, Nunns M, Shaw L, Melendez‐Torres GJ, Moore D (2019). Developing methods for the overarching synthesis of quantitative and qualitative evidence: the interweave synthesis approach.
Research Synthesis Methods,
11(4), 507-521.
Abstract:
Developing methods for the overarching synthesis of quantitative and qualitative evidence: the interweave synthesis approach
The incorporation of evidence derived from multiple research designs into one single synthesis can enhance the utility of systematic reviews making them more worthwhile, useful, and insightful. Methodological guidance for mixed‐methods synthesis continues to emerge and evolve but broadly involves a sequential, parallel, or convergent approach according to the degree of independence between individual syntheses before they are combined.We present two case studies in which we used novel and innovative methods to draw together the findings from individual but related quantitative and qualitative syntheses to aid interpretation of the overall evidence base. Our approach moved beyond making a choice between parallel, sequential, or convergent methods to interweave the findings of individual reviews and offers three key innovations to mixed‐methods synthesis methods:
The use of intersubjective questions to understand the findings of the individual reviews through different lenses,
Immersion of key reviewers in the entirety of the evidence base, and
Commencing the process during the final stages of the synthesis of individual reviews, at a point where reviewers are developing an understanding of initial findings.
Underlying our approach is the process of exploration and identification of links between and across review findings, an approach that is fundamental to all evidence syntheses but usually occurs at the level of the study. Adapting existing methods for exploring and identifying patterns and links between and across studies to interweave the findings between and across reviews may prove valuable.
Abstract.
Shaw L, Moore D, Nunns M, Thompson Coon J, Ford T, Berry V, Walker E, Heyman I, Dickens C, Bennett S, et al (2019). Experiences of interventions aiming to improve the mental health and well-being of children and young people with a long-term physical condition: a systematic review and meta-ethnography.
Child Care Health Dev,
45(6), 832-849.
Abstract:
Experiences of interventions aiming to improve the mental health and well-being of children and young people with a long-term physical condition: a systematic review and meta-ethnography.
BACKGROUND: Children and young people with long-term physical health conditions are at increased risk of experiencing mental health and well-being difficulties. However, there is a lack of research that explores the experiences of and attitudes towards interventions aiming to improve their mental health and well-being. This systematic review seeks to address this gap in the literature by exploring what children and young people with long-term conditions, their caregivers, and health practitioners perceive to be important aspects of interventions aiming to improve their mental health and well-being. METHODS: an information specialist searched five academic databases using predefined criteria for qualitative evaluations of interventions aiming to improve the mental health or well-being of children with long-term physical conditions. Reviewers also performed supplementary citation and grey literature searches. Two reviewers independently screened titles, abstracts, and full texts that met the inclusion criteria and conducted data extraction and quality assessment. Meta-ethnography was used to synthesize the findings. RESULTS: Screening identified 60 relevant articles. We identified five overarching constructs through the synthesis: (a) Getting in and Staying In, (b) Therapeutic Foundation, (c) Social Support, (d) a Hopeful Alternative, and (e) Empowerment. The line of argument that links these constructs together indicates that when interventions can provide an environment that allows young people to share their experiences and build empathetic relationships, it can enable participants to access social support and increase feelings of hope and empowerment. CONCLUSION: These findings may provide a framework to inform the development of mental health interventions for this population and evaluate existing interventions that already include some of the components or processes identified by this research. Further research is needed to establish which of the constructs identified by the line of argument are most effective in improving the mental well-being of young people living with long-term conditions.
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Nunns MPI, Shaw L, Briscoe S, Thompson Coon J, Hemsley A, McGrath JS, Lovegrove CJ, Thomas D, Anderson R (2019). Multicomponent hospital-led interventions to reduce hospital stay for older adults following elective surgery: a systematic review. Health Services and Delivery Research, 7(40), 1-178.
Finning K, Ukoumunne OC, Ford T, Danielson-Waters E, Shaw L, Romero De jager I, Stentiford L, Moore D (2019). Review: the association between anxiety and poor attendance at school – a systematic review.
Child and Adolescent Mental Health,
24(3), 205-2016.
Abstract:
Review: the association between anxiety and poor attendance at school – a systematic review
Background: Anxiety may be associated with poor attendance at school, which can lead to a range of adverse outcomes. We systematically reviewed the evidence for an association between anxiety and poor school attendance. Methods: Seven electronic databases were searched for quantitative studies that reported an estimate of association between anxiety and school attendance. Anxiety had to be assessed via standardised diagnostic measure or validated scale. Articles were screened independently by two reviewers. Meta-analyses were performed where possible, otherwise results were synthesised narratively. Results: a total of 4930 articles were screened. Eleven studies from six countries across North America, Europe and Asia, were included. School attendance was categorised into: (a) absenteeism (i.e. total absences), (b) excused/medical absences, (c) unexcused absences/truancy and (d) school refusal. Findings from eight studies suggested associations between truancy and any anxiety disorder, as well as social and generalised anxiety. Results also suggested cross-sectional associations between school refusal and separation, generalised and social anxiety disorders, as well as simple phobia. Few studies investigated associations with absenteeism or excused/medical absences. Conclusions: Findings suggest associations between anxiety and unexcused absences/truancy, and school refusal. Clinicians should consider the possibility of anxiety in children and adolescents with poor attendance. However, there is a lack of high quality evidence, little longitudinal research and limited evidence relating to overall absenteeism or excused/medical absences, despite the latter being the most common type of absence. These gaps should be a key priority for future research.
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2018
Moore D, Russell A, Matthews J, Ford T, Rogers M, Ukoumunne O, Kneale D, Thompson Coon J, Sutcliffe K, Nunns M, et al (2018). Context and Implications Document for: School-based interventions for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: a systematic review with multiple synthesis methods. Review of Education, 6
Shaw EH, Nunns MP, Briscoe S, Anderson R, Thompson Coon J (2018). Experiences of the ‘Nearest Relative’ provisions in the compulsory detention of people under the Mental Health Act: rapid systematic review. Health Services and Delivery Research
Moore D, Russell A, Matthews J, Ford T, Rogers M, Ukoumunne O, Kneale D, Thompson Coon J, Sutcliffe K, Nunns M, et al (2018). School‐based interventions for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: a systematic review with multiple synthesis methods. Review of Education, 6
Finning K, Ukoumunne O, Ford T, Danielsson-Waters E, Shaw L, Romero De Jager I, Stentiford L, Moore D (2018). The association between child and adolescent depression and poor attendance at school: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Journal of Affective Disorders,
245, 928-938.
Abstract:
The association between child and adolescent depression and poor attendance at school: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Background
Depression in young people may lead to reduced school attendance through social withdrawal, loss of motivation, sleep disturbance and low energy. We systematically reviewed the evidence for an association between depression and poor school attendance.
Methods
Seven electronic databases were searched for quantitative studies with school-aged children and/or adolescents, reporting a measure of association between depression and school attendance. Articles were independently screened by two reviewers. Synthesis incorporated random-effects meta-analysis and narrative synthesis.
Results
Searches identified 4930 articles. Nineteen studies from eight countries across North America, Europe, and Asia, were included. School attendance was grouped into: 1) absenteeism (i.e. total absences), 2) excused/medical absences, 3) unexcused absences/truancy, and 4) school refusal. Meta-analyses demonstrated small-to-moderate positive cross-sectional associations between depression and absenteeism (correlation coefficient r=0.11, 95% confidence interval 0.07 to 0.15, p=0.005, I2= 63%); and depression and unexcused absences/truancy (r=0.15, 95% confidence interval 0.13 to 0.17, p
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2017
Gabbay MB, Ring A, Byng R, Anderson P, Taylor RS, Matthews C, Harris T, Berry V, Byrne P, Carter E, et al (2017). Debt Counselling for Depression in Primary Care: an adaptive randomised controlled pilot trial (DeCoDer study).
Health Technol Assess,
21(35), 1-164.
Abstract:
Debt Counselling for Depression in Primary Care: an adaptive randomised controlled pilot trial (DeCoDer study).
BACKGROUND: Depression and debt are common in the UK. Debt Counselling for Depression in Primary Care: an adaptive randomised controlled pilot trial (DeCoDer) aimed to assess the clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the addition of a primary care debt counselling advice service to usual care for patients with depression and debt. However, the study was terminated early during the internal pilot trial phase because of recruitment delays. This report describes the rationale, methods and findings of the pilot study, and implications for future research. OBJECTIVES: the overarching aim of the internal pilot was to identify and resolve problems, thereby assessing the feasibility of the main trial. The specific objectives were to confirm methods for practice recruitment and the ability to recruit patients via the proposed approaches; to determine the acceptability of the study interventions and outcome measures; to assess contamination; to confirm the randomisation method for main trial and the level of participant attrition; and to check the robustness of data collection systems. DESIGN: an adaptive, parallel, two-group multicentre randomised controlled pilot trial with a nested mixed-methods process and economic evaluation. Both individual- and cluster (general practice)-level were was used in the pilot phase to assign participants to intervention or control groups. SETTING: General practices in England and Wales. PARTICIPANTS: Individuals were included who were aged ≥ 18 years, scored ≥ 14 on the Beck Depression Inventory II and self-identified as having debt worries. The main exclusion criteria were being actively suicidal or psychotic and/or severely depressed and unresponsive to treatment; having a severe addiction to alcohol/illicit drugs; being unable/unwilling to give written informed consent; currently participating in other research including follow-up phases; having received Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) debt advice in the past year; and not wanting debt advice via a general practice. INTERVENTIONS: the participants in the intervention group were given debt advice provided by the CAB and shared biopsychosocial assessment, in addition to treatment as usual (TAU) and two debt advice leaflets. The participants in the control group were given advice leaflets provided by the general practitioner and TAU only. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: (1) Outcomes of the pilot trial - the proportion of eligible patients who consented, the number of participants recruited compared with target, assessment of contamination, and assessment of patient satisfaction with intervention and outcome measures. (2) Participant outcomes - primary - Beck Depression Inventory II; secondary - psychological well-being, health and social care utilisation, service satisfaction, substance misuse, record of priority/non-priority debts, life events and difficulties, and explanatory measures. Outcomes were assessed at baseline (pre-randomisation) and at 4 months post randomisation. Other data sources - qualitative interviews were conducted with participants, clinicians and CAB advisors. RESULTS: of the 238 expressions of interest screened, 61 participants (26%) were recruited and randomised (32 in the intervention group and 29 in the control group). All participants provided baseline outcomes and 52 provided the primary outcome at 4 months' follow-up (14.7% dropout). Seventeen participants allocated to the intervention saw a CAB advisor. Descriptive statistics are reported for participants with complete outcomes at baseline and 4 months' follow-up. Our qualitative findings suggest that the relationship between debt and depression is complex, and the impact of each on the other is compounded by other psychological, social and contextual influences. CONCLUSIONS: As a result of low recruitment, this trial was terminated at the internal pilot phase and was too small for inferential statistical analysis. We recommend ways to reduce this risk when conducting complex trials among vulnerable populations recruited in community settings. These cover trial design, the design and delivery of interventions, recruitment strategies and support for sites. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN79705874. FUNDING: This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 21, No. 35. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information. Mark Gabbay and Adele Ring are part-funded by NIHR Collaborations for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care (CLAHRC) North West Coast and Richard Byng and Rod S Taylor, Vashti Berry and Elizabeth Shaw part-funded by NIHR CLAHRC South West Peninsula.
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