Principles of Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses -- Semi-automated Tools for Systematic Searches -- Fixed- and Random-effects Models -- Assessing Heterogeneity in Random-Effects Meta-Analysis -- Performing Meta-Analyses with Very Few Studies -- Systematic vs Rapid vs Scoping Reviews -- Living Systematic Reviews -- Umbrella Reviews: What They Are and Why We Need Them -- Meta-analysis of Genetics Studies: Assessing Common and Rare Variation -- Meta-analysis of Pragmatic and Explanatory Trials -- Meta-analysis of Proportions -- Meta-Analysis Methods of Diagnostic Test Accuracy Studies -- Network Meta-Anaylsis -- Contrast-based and Arm-Based Models for Network Meta-Analysis -- Software to Conduct a Meta-Analysis and Network Meta-Analysis -- Modelling Multicomponent Interventions in Network Meta-analysis -- Practical Considerations and Challenges when Conducting an Individual Participant Data(IPD) Meta-Analysis -- Individual Patient Data Meta-Analysis and Network Meta-Analysis -- Challenges in Comparative Meta-Analysis of the Accuracy of Multiple Diagnostic Tests.

This volume presents state-of-the art design, analysis and integration approaches for biomedical data including novel statistical models for a comprehensive and powerful synthesis and assessment of scientific evidence. Chapters detail principles of systematic reviews, semi-automated tools for systematic searches, fixed- and random-effects meta-analytical models, living systematic reviews, meta-analysis of genetic studies, meta-analysis of pragmatic and explanatory trials, network meta-analysis, and other modern approaches for data synthesis. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series format, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and cutting-edge, Meta- Research: Methods and Protocols book, written by global experts, will introduce the reader in a step-by-step process to the methods of the vital and highly promising field of evidence synthesis.