We present a framework consisting of three approaches that can enhance meta-analyses: 1) scoping reviews (evidence map), 2) bibliometrics, and 3) alternative impact metrics. These three "enrichment" approaches facilitate the research synthesis of both quantitative and qualitative evidence, along with academic and non-academic influences. While the meta-analysis yields quantitative insights (e.g., overall estimates), the enrichment analyses provide user-friendly summaries of qualitative information on the evidence base. Scoping reviews can visualize study characteristics, unravelling knowledge gaps and methodological differences. Bibliometric analysis offers a visual assessment of the non-independent evidence, such as hyper-dominant authors and countries, and funding sources, potentially informing the risk of bias. Impact metric analysis employs alternative metrics to gauge societal influence and research translation (e.g., policy and patent citations) of studies in the meta-analysis. To illustrate the application of this framework, we provide sample visualizations and R code.
翻译:我们提出一个由三种方法组成的框架,可增强荟萃分析:1)范围综述(证据图谱)、2)文献计量学和3)替代影响力指标。这三种"丰富化"方法有助于整合定量与定性证据的合成,同时兼顾学术与非学术影响。虽然荟萃分析提供定量洞见(如总体效应估计值),但丰富化分析能提供证据基础中定性信息的用户友好型摘要。范围综述可可视化研究特征,揭示知识空白与方法学差异。文献计量分析为非独立证据(如超主导型作者与国家、资金来源)提供可视化评估,可能提示偏倚风险。影响力指标分析运用替代指标衡量荟萃分析中研究的社会影响与研究转化(如政策与专利引用)。为说明该框架的应用,我们提供示例可视化图表及R代码。