Methods to systematically review and meta-analyse observational studies: a systematic scoping review of recommendations.

Background: Systematic reviews and meta-analyses of observational studies are frequently performed, but no widely accepted guidance is available at present. We performed a systematic scoping review of published methodological recommendations on how to systematically review and meta-analyse observational studies.

Methods: We searched online databases and websites and contacted experts in the field to locate potentially eligible articles.

Two-dose schedules for human papillomavirus vaccine: Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Simpler schedules for human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine delivery could improve vaccine coverage and the effectiveness of cervical cancer prevention. The objective of this study was to systematically review evidence about the effects of two-dose compared with three-dose schedules for human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine and to describe the uptake of two-dose HPV vaccination schedules globally. We searched PubMed, the Cochrane Central Registry of Controlled Trials, trials registers, and manufacturers' databases from their earliest date to February 2016.

Ecological correlation between diabetes hospitalizations and fine particulate matter in Italian provinces.

Background: Exposure to particulate matter has been associated with increased risk of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. We evaluated the ecological correlation between standardized hospital discharges with diabetes in Italian provinces and fine particulate matter (PM2.5) adjusting for common risk factors, socioeconomic factors and differences in hospitalization appropriateness.

Are public health professionals prepared for public health genomics? A cross-sectional survey in Italy.

Background: Public health genomics is an emerging multidisciplinary approach, which aims to integrate genome-based knowledge in a responsible and effective way into public health. Despite several surveys performed to evaluate knowledge, attitudes and professional behaviors of physicians towards predictive genetic testing, similar surveys have not been carried out for public health practitioners. This study is the first to assess knowledge, attitudes and training needs of public health professionals in the field of predictive genetic testing for chronic diseases.

Non-publication and delayed publication of randomized trials on vaccines: survey.

Objective: To evaluate the extent of non-publication or delayed publication of registered randomized trials on vaccines, and to investigate potential determinants of delay to publication.

Design: Survey.

Data Sources: Trials registry websites, Scopus, PubMed, Google.

Knowledge, attitudes and behavior of physicians regarding predictive genetic tests for breast and colorectal cancer.

Background: Genetic testing for cancer susceptibility is an emerging technology in medicine. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes and professional behavior of Italian physicians regarding the use of predictive genetic tests for breast and colorectal cancer, including the BRCA1/2 and APC tests.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey of a random sample of Italian physicians was performed in 2010 through a self-administered questionnaire.

[Online communication regarding health promotion and protection: the public health perspective].

Currently web health portals are moving away from providing institutional and administrative types of information towards a more interactive type of communication focused on providing citizens and health care professionals various services associated with health promotion and on facilitating access to healthcare services. The aim of this study was to provide guidance in the planning and conduction of online health promotion and protection communication activities that will contribute to the process of community empowerment repeatedly called upon by the WHO. For this purpose, the authors conducted an analysis of the epidemiology of the determinants of health and disease in Italy as well as two systematic revisions of the literature regarding web-based health information needs of citizens and the efficacy of health promotion and preventative interventions administered via the internet.

Publication delay of randomized trials on 2009 influenza A (H1N1) vaccination.

Background: Randomized evidence for vaccine immunogenicity and safety is urgently needed in the setting of pandemics with new emerging infectious agents. We carried out an observational survey to evaluate how many randomized controlled trials testing 2009 H1N1 vaccines were published among those registered, and what was the time lag from their start to publication and from their completion to publication.

Methods: PubMed, EMBASE and 9 clinical trial registries were searched for eligible randomized controlled trials.

Meta-analysis of the immunogenicity and tolerability of pandemic influenza A 2009 (H1N1) vaccines.

Background: Although the 2009 (H1N1) influenza pandemic officially ended in August 2010, the virus will probably circulate in future years. Several types of H1N1 vaccines have been tested including various dosages and adjuvants, and meta-analysis is needed to identify the best formulation.

Methods: We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and nine clinical trial registries to April 2011, in any language for randomized clinical trials (RCTs) on healthy children, adolescents, adults and the elderly.