Critical Appraisal Skills Research Articles

Exploring the potential of cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) for individualised pulmonary rehabilitation in people with interstitial lung disease (ILD): A systematic review protocol

Background This review aims to identify which cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) derived variables can be used to personalise pulmonary rehabilitation for people with interstitial lung diseases. A ‘one size fits all’ approach does not benefit every patient due to a multitude of unique characteristics, subsets and phenotypes. No condition specific personalised pulmonary rehabilitation guidelines exist in this area and exercise programme development is lacking. This leads to wide variation in the success within the literature and clinical practice. Methods MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews will be searched to identify studies that utilise CPET variables for PR development. Quality assessment is to be performed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP) checklists for single cohort studies and randomised controlled studies. Discussion The primary outcomes found within the included studies for peak volume of oxygen consumption (VO2peak), work rate (WRpeak), oxygen consumption at anaerobic threshold (VO2-AT), heart rate and rate of perceived exertion (RPE) would help determine which variables are optimal for prescription success. Identification of reliable methods to personalise pulmonary rehabilitation for people with interstitial lung disease would enhance what is already known and potentially lead to best practice guideline development. Registration In accordance with the guidelines, this systematic review protocol was registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) on 07 May 2024 (registration number CRD42024543174).

Exploring medication self-management in polypharmacy: a qualitative systematic review of patients and healthcare providers perspectives.

Purpose: Polypharmacy presents many challenges to patient medication self-management. This study aims to explore the self-management processes of medication in polypharmacy from the perspectives of both patients and healthcare providers, which can help identify barriers and facilitators to effective management. Methods: A systematic review of qualitative studies was performed by searching seven databases: PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and MEDLINE, from their establishment until August 2024. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) tool was employed to evaluate the quality of the studies included. The extracted data were then analysed thematically and integrated into The Taxonomy of Everyday Self-management Strategies (TEDSS) framework. Results: A total of 16 studies were included, involving 403 patients and 119 healthcare providers. Patient management measures were mapped into TEDSS framework, including categories such as medical management, support-oriented domains, and emotional and role management. Conclusion: Enhancing patients' proactive health awareness, improving medication literacy, balancing lifestyle adjustments with medication therapy, dynamically reviewing and optimizing medications, strengthening patients' social support networks, and helping patients integrate medication management into their daily life are the key elements that can effectively assist patients in self-managing their medications. Future interventions to improve patient medication self-management ability should be designed for these issues. Systematic Review Registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier CRD42024524742.

Barriers and Enablers of Successful Workplace Integration of Internationally Educated Nurses (IENs) in a Host Country: A Qualitative Evidence Synthesis.

The aim of this qualitative evidence synthesis (QES) is to critically appraise the contemporary literature to gain a comprehensive understanding of the barriers and enablers of workplace integration needs of internationally educated nurses (IENs). An electronic search was conducted across multiple databases, and eligibility criteria were applied to identify papers published between January 2013 and July 2023. Out of the 830 studies initially retrieved, six met the inclusion criteria. Study quality was assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) tool. Thematic analysis of the included studies revealed various barriers and enablers for workplace integration experienced by IENs. Barriers were: (a) IEN-related factors (cultural differences, language barriers, and disparities in the scope of nursing practice), (b) organizational factors (poor leadership), and (c) contextual factors (racism and discrimination). Enablers emerged were: (a) IEN-related factors (commitment to learn and adapt) and (b) organizational factors (structured multifaceted program, supportive workplace environment, and mentorship). Dynamic interaction exists among these factors, therefore interventions should address multiple barriers simultaneously. The QES has illuminated essential factors which impact the integration of IENs, and emphasizes the necessity of a comprehensive approach that considers the diverse challenges and opportunities that arise.

Remote Patient Monitoring and Machine Learning in Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Dual Systematic Literature Review and Narrative Synthesis.

Acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) are associated with high mortality, morbidity, and poor quality of life and constitute a substantial burden to patients and health care systems. New approaches to prevent or reduce the severity of AECOPD are urgently needed. Internationally, this has prompted increased interest in the potential of remote patient monitoring (RPM) and digital medicine. RPM refers to the direct transmission of patient-reported outcomes, physiological, and functional data, including heart rate, weight, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, physical activity, and lung function (spirometry), directly to health care professionals through automation, web-based data entry, or phone-based data entry. Machine learning has the potential to enhance RPM in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease by increasing the accuracy and precision of AECOPD prediction systems. This study aimed to conduct a dual systematic review. The first review focuses on randomized controlled trials where RPM was used as an intervention to treat or improve AECOPD. The second review examines studies that combined machine learning with RPM to predict AECOPD. We review the evidence and concepts behind RPM and machine learning and discuss the strengths, limitations, and clinical use of available systems. We have generated a list of recommendations needed to deliver patient and health care system benefits. A comprehensive search strategy, encompassing the Scopus and Web of Science databases, was used to identify relevant studies. A total of 2 independent reviewers (HMGG and CM) conducted study selection, data extraction, and quality assessment, with discrepancies resolved through consensus. Data synthesis involved evidence assessment using a Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist and a narrative synthesis. Reporting followed PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. These narrative syntheses suggest that 57% (16/28) of the randomized controlled trials for RPM interventions fail to achieve the required level of evidence for better outcomes in AECOPD. However, the integration of machine learning into RPM demonstrates promise for increasing the predictive accuracy of AECOPD and, therefore, early intervention. This review suggests a transition toward the integration of machine learning into RPM for predicting AECOPD. We discuss particular RPM indices that have the potential to improve AECOPD prediction and highlight research gaps concerning patient factors and the maintained adoption of RPM. Furthermore, we emphasize the importance of a more comprehensive examination of patient and health care burdens associated with RPM, along with the development of practical solutions.

Experiences of Certified Peer Support Specialist Providing Formal Peer Support in Mental Health Services: ASystematic Review and Meta-Synthesis.

Peer support specialists (PSSs) in mental healthcare services are individuals recovering from mental health conditions and providing formal peer support to clients with similar conditions. Despite evidence of the benefits of this modality and the increasing demand for it, little is known about the PSSs' experiences in mental healthcare services. This review systematically synthesises available qualitative data on the certified PSSs' experiences in providing formal peer support in mental healthcare services. A search was performed across six electronic databases and one grey literature database for all published and unpublished qualitative studies in English between 2014 and 2022. Mixed-methods studies were included if their qualitative data were extractable. This review included PSSs who provided formal peer support to clients with similar mental health conditions. The included studies were appraised through the Critical Appraisal Skills Program Qualitative checklist, while data extraction was done through a customised tool. Our meta-synthesis revealed an overarching theme on certified PSSs' journey in mental healthcare services, alongside four main themes: (i) emotional impacts of being PSSs, (ii) struggle to justify their roles, (iii) complex roles of PSSs and (iv) sources of support. The review has provided an insightful understanding of the PSSs' roles and needs, for which there is a need to cultivate a supportive working environment. Given the difficulties in adopting the PSSs' roles, as demonstrated by our findings, future research should explore how mental healthcare organisations can address their work-related challenges and cultivate a supportive working environment.

Perceived factors influencing the success of pain neuroscience education in chronic musculoskeletal pain: a meta-synthesis of qualitative studies

Purpose We aimed to identify the factors influencing the success of Pain Neuroscience Education (PNE) in chronic musculoskeletal (MSK) pain from the perspective of those experiencing PNE first-hand. Materials and Methods We conducted a meta-synthesis of qualitative studies. Articles were found on MEDLINE via Pubmed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, CINHAL, and PsycINFO up to April 2023. Eligible qualitative studies focussed on adults (>16 years old) with a diagnosis of chronic primary or secondary MSK pain who performed PNE. Thematic synthesis by Thomas and Harden was followed. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) tool ensured the quality of the studies, while the Confidence in Evidence from the Reviews of Qualitative Research (CERQual) approach facilitated data confidence assessment. Results Nine studies were included (188 participants). Three analytical themes were developed: (i) “Efficient Communication of Information”, emphasising the importance of accurate content transmission; (ii) “Emotional Support and Well-being”, recognising emotional aspects as integral to treatment; and (iii) “Empowerment Promotion”, focusing on information retention and personal transformation. The studies showed good quality, with moderate confidence in the evidence. Conclusions The perceived factors influencing the success of PNE are intricately related to the domain of communication, the emotional dimension of personal experience, and the capacity to be empowered.

Comparative evaluation between guided endodontics and conventional techniques for calcific metamorphosis - A systematic review and meta-analysis.

The aim of the study was to review and determine whether guided endodontic treatment or conventional technique is a better treatment alternative for patients with calcific metamorphosis. The review was done according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) statement (PRISMA) guidelines. Databases were searched from 2000 to December 2022 for studies reporting the treatment of calcific metamorphosis through guided endodontic treatment or conventional technique. Quality assessment of the included was evaluated using the critical checklist put forward by the Joanna Briggs Institute for case reports, while for the included in vitro studies, the critical checklist put forward by the Critical Appraisal Skills Program was used. Results were plotted through pooled forest plots and publication bias was explored through funnel plots using RevMan (Review manager) 5.3 version. Summary statistic measure in the form of standardized mean difference (SDM) was used. Five studies were included in qualitative synthesis and three studies for quantitative synthesis. The pooled estimate (SMD) of -0.97 (-1.83-0.10) favors guided endodontic treatment employing a random effect model with an I 2 (heterogeneity) value of 83% and a P = 0.03. Publication bias showed symmetric distribution with a systematic heterogeneity. These procedures and techniques are highly promising with better results. Treatments of a minimally invasive nature can be performed, with a reduction in chairside time.

The Effectiveness of SCIDOTS to Reduce Smoking Behavior Among Patients with Pulmonary Tuberculosis : Systematic Review

Aims : The aim of this study is to identify and summarize the results of previous studies on the use of SCIDOTS to reduce smoking cessation in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis. Methods : The research used was a literature review of three articles. The assessment of the articles shall be measured using the CASP (Critical Appraisal Skills Program) format. Results : The result of this study incorporating smoking cessation programs into pulmonary TB control programs, as new diagnoses can increase cessation rates by 71.7%. Various interventions, including counseling sessions, behavioral therapy, and health promotion programs, have proven successful. Conclusions : The study found that the intervention SCIDOTS, or quitting smoking, is highly effective in treating tuberculosis patients, accelerating their active treatment.

Systematic Literature Review: Analisis Faktor Risiko Diabetes Melitus Tipe 1 pada Anak dan Remaja di Negara Maju Wilayah Eropa Barat

The incidence of type 1 diabetes mellitus mostly occurs in children and adolescents has increased significantly every year, especially in developed countries in Western Europe which continue to experience the highest increase. The purpose of this study was to analyze the risk factors for type 1 diabetes in children and adolescents in developed countries in Western Europe. This type of research is a systematic literature review. The literature search strategy as a source of information was carried out by accessing electronic databases online, namely Science Direct, PubMed, and Google Scholar. Article quality assessment using Critical Appraisal Skill Programme (CASP). The results showed that out of 10 (2014-2024), conducted in the United Kingdom (n=1), Sweden (n=1), Germany (n=1), England (n=2), Denmark (n=3), Norway (n=1) and conducted in Norway and Denmark (n=1). Of the 10 articles, 5 out of 10 articles examined BMI on the development of type 1 diabetes in children and adolescents. The results of this systematic review found that age, gender, race, family history of diabetes, socioeconomic, BMI, nutritional intake in mothers and children, physical activity, infection and smoking will increase the risk of type 1 diabetes mellitus in children and adolescents in developed countries in Western Europe.

Anti-fibrinolytics for mucosal bleeding in adults with life-limiting illnesses: a systematic review

IntroductionPatients with life-limiting illnesses are at increased risk of mucosal bleeding. Usual management includes anticipatory planning and sedation, alongside anti-fibrinolytics, despite a lack of evidence for their use. Anti-fibrinolytic agents...

Evaluation of Digital Mental Health Technologies in the United States: Systematic Literature Review and Framework Synthesis.

Digital mental health technologies (DMHTs) have the potential to enhance mental health care delivery. However, there is little information on how DMHTs are evaluated and what factors influence their use. A systematic literature review was conducted to understand how DMHTs are valued in the United States from user, payer, and employer perspectives. Articles published after 2017 were identified from MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, Cochrane Library, the Health Technology Assessment Database, and digital and mental health congresses. Each article was evaluated by 2 independent reviewers to identify US studies reporting on factors considered in the evaluation of DMHTs targeting mental health, Alzheimer disease, epilepsy, autism spectrum disorder, or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Study quality was assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Program Qualitative and Cohort Studies Checklists. Studies were coded and indexed using the American Psychiatric Association's Mental Health App Evaluation Framework to extract and synthesize relevant information, and novel themes were added iteratively as identified. Of the 4353 articles screened, data from 26 unique studies from patient, caregiver, and health care provider perspectives were included. Engagement style was the most reported theme (23/26, 88%), with users valuing DMHT usability, particularly alignment with therapeutic goals through features including anxiety management tools. Key barriers to DMHT use included limited internet access, poor technical literacy, and privacy concerns. Novel findings included the discreetness of DMHTs to avoid stigma. Usability, cost, accessibility, technical considerations, and alignment with therapeutic goals are important to users, although DMHT valuation varies across individuals. DMHT apps should be developed and selected with specific user needs in mind.

Exploring patient perception of decision-making in carpal tunnel release surgery: A systematic review and thematic synthesis of qualitative studies.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition, but some controversies remain regarding diagnostics and the most effective treatments. As a result, patients often experience decisional conflicts, especially when considering carpal tunnel release surgery. Understanding factors that influence decision-making in surgery can help clinicians better grasp patient treatment preferences and priorities, reducing decisional conflicts, and enabling patients to make informed, value-aligned choices through shared decision-making. This qualitative evidence synthesis aims to explore patient perceptions of carpal tunnel release, examine the decision-making factors, and critically appraise and synthesise the existing evidence. A systematic search was conducted across four electronic databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL Ultimate, PsycINFO) from inception to August 2023, supplemented by referencing and citation searching to identify eligible qualitative studies. Thematic synthesis was adopted as synthesis methodology, involving a line-by-line coding of the primary study findings, and the development of descriptive and analytical themes. Quality appraisal was conducted using the modified Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist, supplemented with the COnsolidated criteria for REporting Qualitative research checklist. Synthesis of six qualitative studies encompassing 66 participants generated five analytical themes: (1) Journey to normalcy, (2) Patient-centred care, (3) Work and life considerations, (4) Weighing up alternatives, and (5) Shaping the expectations, highlighting the complexity of patient decision-making in carpal tunnel release. In the management of carpal tunnel syndrome, therapists should consider various decision-making factors, prioritising communication and shared decision-making. This, along with personalised interactions, achieves patient-centred care and enhances patient care quality and therapeutic alliance.

Understanding lived experiences and perceptions of perinatal depression in Nigeria: a qualitative evidence synthesis

Background Perinatal depression is a common mental health disorder which spans during and after pregnancy. Unfortunately, there is poor healthcare-seeking behaviour for this treatable condition. Additionally, maternal healthcare workers sometimes overlook the signs and symptoms, failing to diagnose it adequately. This review aims to provide a framework for understanding the in-depth perceptions and implementation gaps surrounding perinatal depression in Nigeria. Methods This study employed a rigorous qualitative evidence synthesis methodology to gather and analyse both published and unpublished qualitative research on the lived experiences and perceptions of perinatal depression in Nigeria. The research was conducted by searching multiple electronic databases, citation chaining, and checking reference lists. The studies were then screened by title, abstract, and full text, and the quality of the included studies was evaluated using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) checklist for appraising a qualitative study. The data extracted from these studies were then synthesized using the ‘best-fit’ framework method, which combines deductive and inductive approaches to analysis. Results 10 eligible papers were identified. Data were organised into themes eight themes mapped to an already existing framework: Recognitions of perinatal mental distress, labelling of mental distress, symptom patterns, social norms, roles and expectations, supernatural factors, physical/bodily issues, coping strategies, help-seeking from professionals/medical institutions. No study was excluded as a result of methodological limitations. Conclusions The review highlights the significance of integrating mental health services into routine perinatal care and the need for comprehensive interventions that consider sociocultural factors. The findings emphasize the importance of increasing awareness and education among women and healthcare providers to improve early detection and intervention. Healthcare professionals play a crucial role in identifying and managing perinatal depression; therefore, it is essential to provide them with comprehensive and regular training.

Children’s participation in the development, use and evaluation of support interventions for children of a parent diagnosed with cancer: a scoping review protocol

IntroductionAt times of parental cancer, children’s health and well-being are at risk, which is why interventions to support these children have been developed. When developing such interventions, engagement of the...

Sexual Life Experiences of Infertile Individuals: A Meta-Synthesis Study

This study aims to systematically interpret and synthesize the evidence obtained from qualitative research conducted on the sexual experiences of infertile individuals. This study is a meta-synthesis study. A thorough literature review was conducted between February and March 2024 across five electronic databases: PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL, EBSCO, and Science Direct Embase. This article includes 12 studies published in English since 1990 that have examined the sexual experiences of individuals who have been diagnosed with infertility. This research adhered to the Enhancing Transparency in Reporting the Synthesis of Qualitative Research (ENTREQ) guidelines. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme tool for qualitative research was used to evaluate the quality of all included articles. To synthesize the data, deductive and interpretation techniques according to Sandelowski and Barroso’s approach have been used. The sexual experiences of individuals who have been diagnosed with infertility were summarized under four main themes: “Reconceptualising Sexuality,” “Change,” “Coping with Sexual Problems” and “Unmet Need for Information on Sexuality.” It has been revealed that individuals diagnosed with infertility need more information and support about sexual health. Health professionals might help these individuals cope with sexual health problems by providing counseling services.

What is the experience of engaging in mentalization-based treatment? A meta-ethnography of client perspectives of the therapeutic process and outcome

PurposeMentalization-based treatment (MBT) is a psychotherapeutic approach that aims to increase mentalizing capacity. The purpose of this meta-ethnography was to synthesize the available qualitative literature on MBT to allow for a more thorough understanding of the lived experience of those who have undergone this therapy.Design/methodology/approachA systematic search of seven databases was carried out. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme was used to appraise the papers suitable for inclusion. The data were synthesized using a meta-ethnographic approach in which the second-order constructs from each paper were translated and reinterpreted creating a line of argument synthesis.FindingsA total of 11 studies were included in the meta-ethnography. Three overarching themes were identified within the included papers which outlined that participant experience of MBT consisted of three different developmental stages. Navigating the therapeutic process describes the participant’s experience of the therapeutic process of MBT. The processes of change in MBT outlined participant reports of mechanisms of change experienced in MBT. Mentalizing self and others described the experience of generalizing new knowledge and skills to the world outside of therapy and unveiled the impact that engaging in MBT had on participants.Originality/valueThis meta-ethnography offers new insights into how clients experience MBT as a therapeutic process and offers suggestions for implementation in clinical practice as well as areas of focus for research of this therapeutic approach.

Subjective Cognitive Dysfunction in Chronic Illness: A Systematic Review and Meta-Synthesis.

Qualitative studies have examined the experiences of subjective cognitive dysfunction in specific populations or specific disease stages, but there has not yet been a systematic synthesis and evaluation of findings related to perceptions of subjective cognitive dysfunction in nondementia-related chronic illnesses. The aim of this study was 2-fold: (1) to undertake a systematic review of experiences of subjective cognitive dysfunction in people with nondementia-related chronic disease and (2) to develop an explanatory framework to describe the experiences of living with subjective cognitive dysfunction. Four databases were systematically searched for studies on subjective cognitive dysfunction up to June 2023. Qualitative synthesis was conducted on the final sample (N = 25) using Sandelowski's adaptation of Nobilt and Hare's reciprocal transactional analysis method. Critical appraisal was completed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist. Through constant comparison of key concepts, findings were organized within 4 interrelated themes that informed a conceptual explanatory model of adapting to living with subjective cognitive dysfunction: (1) symptoms, (2) health care, (3) perceptions of self, and (4) relationships. Participants highlighted how subjective cognitive dysfunction affected interactions in health care settings and involved other symptoms that in turn complicated meaning, self-enhancement, and mastery. Our model of the process of adapting provides a new way to conceptualize cognitive dysfunction in chronic illness and suggests opportunities for health care professionals to support patients and their families. The results highlight the need for more research to better understand the role of subjective cognitive dysfunction in nondementia-related chronic illnesses.The review protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021231410).

Using telepractice for language sampling during COVID-19 pandemic: A scoping review.

Language sampling is a widely used means of language assessment; it is based on the collection and transcription of a child's language production in various communicative contexts. The need for social distancing due to the COVID-19 pandemic impacted language sampling and speech and language therapy services in general. The in-person assessment became extremely challenging leading to the immediate increased use of telepractice in speech and language therapy. This scoping review aimed to identify the use of telepractice for language sampling in speech and language therapy during the COVID-19 pandemic. A scoping review of existing literature was performed to collect evidence on using language sample collection via telepractice. A database search was conducted in PubMed, PsycINFO, Cochrane Library, Mendeley, Electronic, and grey bibliography in 2022. Articles were included if they met the inclusion criteria. The quality of each selected study was assessed using the modified critical appraisal skills program (CASP) checklist. Systematic searches identified 51 studies with six studies in total meeting the inclusion criteria. The results showed that telepractice was a necessary tool during the pandemic of COVID-19 to conduct language sampling in speech and language assessment. Speech and language therapists (SLTs) effectively collected language samples through telepractice during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although, to date, the literature on language sampling via telepractice is limited. The need for SLTs to rely on telepractice for language sampling warrants further investigation.

Non-pharmaceutical interventions and epigenetic aging in adults: Protocol for a scoping review.

Aging is the strongest risk factor for most chronic diseases. The rising burden of an aging population and non-communicable diseases (NCDs), contributes to escalating costs for society. Several non-pharmaceutical interventions can lower the risk of NCDs, including common mental disorders (CMDs), and may slow down biological aging, as evidenced by outcome markers such as epigenetic clocks. However, a comprehensive overview of whether and which non-pharmaceutical interventions may impact human epigenetic aging is missing. Synthesizing evidence of interventions on epigenetic aging that can be adopted by a wider population is key to guide healthy aging initiatives and to reduce the burden of NCDs and CMDs. This scoping review will identify and assess non-pharmaceutical interventions aimed to slow down epigenetic aging, including their intervention components, and the mode used for intervention delivery. This protocol will include single- and multicomponent intervention studies that target individuals ≥ 18 years of age and use epigenetic clocks as primary or secondary outcomes. Five electronic databases will be searched for studies between July 2011 until December 2023. The final search will include the search terms adults, non-pharmaceutical interventions, epigenetic aging and their respective synonyms. We will include randomized controlled trials, non-randomized controlled studies, cohort studies, and case-control studies. Additionally, the reference list of other reviews will be screened for relevant articles. Study selection is carried out based on the defined eligibility criteria by two authors. Quality and risk of bias for the included studies will be assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) checklist. Data extraction will include generic key information such as the research question and results, the intervention components, and specific epigenetic outcome measures used. Further data regarding the delivery mode of the treatment protocol will be collected. This scoping review will summarize the characteristics of non-pharmaceutical intervention studies on epigenetic aging. This review will be the first step to formally identify key intervention components and delivery modes to guide future research on healthy aging interventions. The results will be disseminated through a peer-reviewed publication and presented at relevant conferences. This review will synthesize information from available publications and does not require further ethical approval. Open Science Framework https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/FEHNB.

Systematic Review Protocol: Anhedonia in Youth and the Role of Internet-Related Behavior

Background: Depression is a serious and debilitating condition with a rising prevalence. Anhedonia, a core symptom of depression, is notably significant and the second most weighted factor among the non-somatic concerns of depression, following depressed mood. The interaction between technology use, mood, emotions, depression, and anhedonia is a critical area of investigation. Aim: This study aims to develop a comprehensive Systematic Review Protocol to examine the emotional effects of Internet-related behavior in young people. Methods: A systematic review protocol was developed following PRISMA guidelines for systematic reviews. The research question was formulated according to the PICOS framework. The search was conducted using PubMed/Medline, Cochrane Library, Embase, Scopus, and PsycInfo, supplemented by gray literature sources via Google Scholar. The methodological quality and risk of bias was assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) framework. This systematic review protocol was registered on the Open Science Framework with the registration DOI: 10.17605/OSF.IO/SHNJU. Conclusions: The findings of this systematic review are expected to provide new evidence on the correlations between depression, Internet addiction, and anhedonia, contributing to the development of targeted intervention strategies and improving the understanding of young peoples’ emotional well-being.