I'm pleased to welcome you to this podcast for a crucial topic in the care of preterm babies: the use of surfactant therapy guided by tests of their lung function. Practice is evolving in this area, and we're here to discuss the latest evidence. Three guests are joining me today, Greta Sibrecht and Franek Borys, authors of the October 2023 Cochrane review, and, later, Anna Lavizzari, lead investigator for one of the ongoing studies.

Cochrane has, for over 30 years, built a reputation for producing high-quality evidence syntheses that inform healthcare decisions worldwide. Cochrane reviews are recognized as one of the world’s most trusted sources of evidence, making them essential resources for healthcare professionals, policymakers, researchers, as well as patients and carers. 

A cornerstone of Cochrane’s work is its rigorous methodological approach. The methods employed by Cochrane are designed to ensure that the evidence synthesized is transparently and rigorously appraised. By defining and following best practices in evidence synthesis, Cochrane ensures its reviews not only meet high quality standards but also provide actionable insights for improving healthcare outcomes.  

At the center of this are Cochrane Methods, which play an essential role in guiding the production of these high-quality systematic reviews. The established clear standards and comprehensive guidelines that authors follow ensure thorough and transparent evidence synthesis. Cochrane’s educational resources, including the Cochrane Methodology Handbooks, webinars, and tutorials, also equip researchers and practitioners with the tools to apply these methods effectively.  

"Within Cochrane’s methods community, we are constantly learning from each other. From our Methods Groups who research and define best practice, to teams involved in implementation, and the commitment of authors and editors in adhering to the standards, everyone brings something valuable to the table. The community Cochrane has built is one of collaboration and shared knowledge, and with the commitment to innovate in methods in Cochrane’s new Scientific Strategy, we are excited to see what comes next."

-  Ella Flemyng, Head of Editorial Policy and Research Integrity

To support and strengthen these efforts, Cochrane draws on the expertise of the Cochrane Methods Network, which consists of 18 specialized Methods Groups. Each group focuses on a specific method or review type relevant to Cochrane reviews. They are involved in methods research, defining best practice and supporting implementation in Cochrane.   

“My favourite thing about Cochrane is the opportunity to collaborate with folks from across the globe with a shared purpose of advancing systematic review methods to improve patient care.”

- Tahira Devji, Patient-Reported Outcomes Methods Group

Cochrane's Scientific Strategy 2025–2030 underscores the commitment to methodological innovation in evidence synthesis. Areas of key focus include methods adaptation as we diversify our reviews and included evidence, living evidence, and the potential integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into evidence synthesis processes.  

As the pace of new research accelerates, keeping systematic reviews up-to-date with the latest evidence has become increasingly vital. Cochrane is at the forefront of this evolution with our leadership in living systematic reviews —a dynamic approach that ensures evidence remains current and relevant. This innovation aligns closely with the Wellcome Trust's recent announcement of a £45 million investment to accelerate "living evidence synthesis" and emphasizes our commitment to providing the most current, reliable evidence to inform healthcare decisions. By keeping evidence up to date, healthcare professionals and policymakers can make informed decisions based on the most relevant and timely information. Cochrane’s focus on living evidence not only enhances the impact of our work but also shows our proactive response to the changing needs of modern healthcare. 

A key element in pioneering evidence synthesis methodology is the integration of AI.  By automating time-consuming tasks such as data extraction, analysis, and even the synthesis of findings, AI could help streamline the review process, allowing researchers to focus on interpreting results and making informed recommendations. AI tools could help make the synthesis of large datasets more efficient, ensuring that healthcare professionals have access to comprehensive, timely evidence.  However, these advancements also emphasize the importance of maintaining ethical standards and ensuring that AI applications in evidence synthesis remain transparent and accountable. To ensure the responsible use of AI, Cochrane is collaborating with other evidence synthesis organizations and actively engaging with stakeholders and the research community to establish best practices. 

Looking ahead, Cochrane’s focus on continuous improvement, collaboration, and methodological excellence will remain key to its mission of improving health outcomes worldwide. 

Join us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and X as we celebrate Cochrane Methods Week, 18-22 November 2024! This week is dedicated to showcasing the robust methodologies that underpin Cochrane’s trusted evidence and exploring innovations shaping the future of evidence synthesis. Participate by following our accounts and using the hashtag #CochraneMethods to join the conversation and ask questions

• Monday 18 Nov - Cochrane Methods Groups Discover the areas of expertise within Cochrane Methods Groups and their vital contributions to evidence synthesis methods.
• Tuesday 19 Nov - Resources and Training Explore Cochrane’s wide range of resources and training opportunities.
• Wednesday 20 Nov - Cochrane Handbooks Learn how Cochrane Handbooks uphold methodological rigour and guide the production of high-quality evidence.
• Thursday 21 Nov - Interactive Day Let's pause for some fun! Engage with quizzes, polls, and other fun activities to test your knowledge of Cochrane Methods.
• Friday 22 November - Looking Ahead Explore how Cochrane continues to innovate methodology and find out how you can get involved in Cochrane’s methodological work and the publishing process.

Cochrane has, for over 30 years, built a reputation for producing high-quality evidence syntheses that inform healthcare decisions worldwide. Cochrane reviews are recognized as one of the world’s most trusted sources of evidence, making them essential resources for healthcare professionals, policymakers, researchers, as well as patients and carers. 

A cornerstone of Cochrane’s work is its rigorous methodological approach. The methods employed by Cochrane are designed to ensure that the evidence synthesized is transparently and rigorously appraised. By defining and following best practices in evidence synthesis, Cochrane ensures its reviews not only meet high quality standards but also provide actionable insights for improving healthcare outcomes.  

At the center of this are Cochrane Methods, which play an essential role in guiding the production of these high-quality systematic reviews. The established clear standards and comprehensive guidelines that authors follow ensure thorough and transparent evidence synthesis. Cochrane’s educational resources, including the Cochrane Methodology Handbooks, webinars, and tutorials, also equip researchers and practitioners with the tools to apply these methods effectively.  

"Within Cochrane’s methods community, we are constantly learning from each other. From our Methods Groups who research and define best practice, to teams involved in implementation, and the commitment of authors and editors in adhering to the standards, everyone brings something valuable to the table. The community Cochrane has built is one of collaboration and shared knowledge, and with the commitment to innovate in methods in Cochrane’s new Scientific Strategy, we are excited to see what comes next."

-  Ella Flemyng, Head of Editorial Policy and Research Integrity

To support and strengthen these efforts, Cochrane draws on the expertise of the Cochrane Methods Network, which consists of 18 specialized Methods Groups. Each group focuses on a specific method or review type relevant to Cochrane reviews. They are involved in methods research, defining best practice and supporting implementation in Cochrane.   

“My favourite thing about Cochrane is the opportunity to collaborate with folks from across the globe with a shared purpose of advancing systematic review methods to improve patient care.”

- Tahira Devji, Patient-Reported Outcomes Methods Group

Cochrane's Scientific Strategy 2025–2030 underscores the commitment to methodological innovation in evidence synthesis. Areas of key focus include methods adaptation as we diversify our reviews and included evidence, living evidence, and the potential integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into evidence synthesis processes.  

As the pace of new research accelerates, keeping systematic reviews up-to-date with the latest evidence has become increasingly vital. Cochrane is at the forefront of this evolution with our leadership in living systematic reviews —a dynamic approach that ensures evidence remains current and relevant. This innovation aligns closely with the Wellcome Trust's recent announcement of a £45 million investment to accelerate "living evidence synthesis" and emphasizes our commitment to providing the most current, reliable evidence to inform healthcare decisions. By keeping evidence up to date, healthcare professionals and policymakers can make informed decisions based on the most relevant and timely information. Cochrane’s focus on living evidence not only enhances the impact of our work but also shows our proactive response to the changing needs of modern healthcare. 

A key element in pioneering evidence synthesis methodology is the integration of AI.  By automating time-consuming tasks such as data extraction, analysis, and even the synthesis of findings, AI could help streamline the review process, allowing researchers to focus on interpreting results and making informed recommendations. AI tools could help make the synthesis of large datasets more efficient, ensuring that healthcare professionals have access to comprehensive, timely evidence.  However, these advancements also emphasize the importance of maintaining ethical standards and ensuring that AI applications in evidence synthesis remain transparent and accountable. To ensure the responsible use of AI, Cochrane is collaborating with other evidence synthesis organizations and actively engaging with stakeholders and the research community to establish best practices. 

Looking ahead, Cochrane’s focus on continuous improvement, collaboration, and methodological excellence will remain key to its mission of improving health outcomes worldwide. 

Join us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and X as we celebrate Cochrane Methods Week, 18-22 November 2024! This week is dedicated to showcasing the robust methodologies that underpin Cochrane’s trusted evidence and exploring innovations shaping the future of evidence synthesis. Participate by following our accounts and using the hashtag #CochraneMethods to join the conversation and ask questions

• Monday 18 Nov - Cochrane Methods Groups Discover the areas of expertise within Cochrane Methods Groups and their vital contributions to evidence synthesis methods.
• Tuesday 19 Nov - Resources and Training Explore Cochrane’s wide range of resources and training opportunities.
• Wednesday 20 Nov - Cochrane Handbooks Learn how Cochrane Handbooks uphold methodological rigour and guide the production of high-quality evidence.
• Thursday 21 Nov - Interactive Day Let's pause for some fun! Engage with quizzes, polls, and other fun activities to test your knowledge of Cochrane Methods.
• Friday 22 November - Looking Ahead Explore how Cochrane continues to innovate methodology and find out how you can get involved in Cochrane’s methodological work and the publishing process.

Helping people develop good eating habits early in life could have long term implications for their health and wellbeing. In this podcast, Mia Parkinson, Cochrane Communications Officer, talks with Rebecca Hodder from the University of Newcastle in Callaghan, Australia, lead author of the Cochrane review of programs to increase eating of fruit and vegetables among children aged 5 years and under, the latest version of which was published in September 2024.

Women undergoing mastectomy for breast cancer treatment or risk reduction can choose among different options for breast reconstruction. In this podcast, the lead author of a new Cochrane review from October 2024, Nicola Rocco, breast oncoplastic surgeon and assistant professor at the University Hospital Federico II of Naples (Italy) discusses its findings for the comparison of implants and autologous tissue for breast reconstruction following mastectomy, with one of his c0-authors, Corrado Rispoli, from Monaldi Hospital in Naples.

Age-related macular degeneration is a progressive, sight-threatening disease affecting the retina at the back of the eye. There are several Cochrane Reviews of its treatment and, in October 2024 we published a new review of the use of artificial intelligence for its diagnosis. Here’s the review’s first author, Chaerim Kang from Brown University in the USA, to tell us more.

One of our most highly cited and largest reviews, published in 2012, looks at interventions for preventing falls in older people living in the community. During its updating, it’s being split into a series of smaller reviews focused on specific interventions. In this podcast, two authors, Amy Drahota and Heather Mackenzie from the Universities of Portsmouth and Southampton in the UK, talk about the update for the studies of psychological and educational interventions, which was published in October 2024.

Title: Methods Implementation Editor
Specifications: Permanent – Full time
Salary: £45,000 per annum
Location: Remote working (Flexible)
Closing date: 11 November 2024

Cochrane is an international charity. For 30 years we have responded to the challenge of making vast amounts of research evidence useful for informing decisions about health. We do this by synthesising research findings and our work has been recognised as the international gold standard for high quality, trusted information.

As Methods Implementation Editor, you will play a crucial role in driving the successful delivery of methods-related projects and developments in Cochrane. You will work closely with cross-functional teams and renowned methodologists in our community to ensure Cochrane continues to use rigorous, up-to-date and innovative methods.

The Methods Implementation Editor sits in the Editorial Policy and Research Integrity team in Cochrane’s Evidence Production and Methods Directorate. This team focuses on defining and implementing best practice in systematic review methods, research integrity and publication ethics, as well as facilitating adherence to Cochrane standards through work aimed at continuous improvement. Working together, this team helps define the foundations for trusted evidence that sets Cochrane reviews apart, facilitating our mission and strategic goals.

Don’t have every single qualification? We know that some people are less likely to apply for a job unless they are a perfect match. At Cochrane, we’re not looking for “perfect matches.” We’re looking to welcome people to our diverse, inclusive, and passionate workplace. So, if you’re excited about this role but don’t have every single qualification, we encourage you to apply anyway. Whether it’s this role or another one, you may be just the right candidate.

Our organization is built on four core values:

Collaboration: Underpins everything we do, locally and globally.

Relevant: The right evidence at the right time in the right format.

Integrity: Independent and transparent.

Quality: Reviewing and improving what we do, maintaining rigour and trust.

You can expect:

• An opportunity to truly impact health globally.
•   A flexible work environment
• A comprehensive onboarding experiences.
•  An environment where people feel welcome, heard, and included, regardless of their differences.

Cochrane welcomes applications from a wide range of perspectives, experiences, locations, and backgrounds; diversity, equity and inclusion are key to our values.

How to apply

•  For further information on the role and click “how to apply”.
• The deadline to receive your application is 11 November, 2024.
• The supporting statement should indicate why you are applying for the post, and how far you meet the requirements, using specific examples.
• Read our Recruitment Privacy Statement

Title: Methods Implementation Editor
Specifications: Permanent – Full time
Salary: £45,000 per annum
Location: Remote working (Flexible)
Closing date: 11 November 2024

Cochrane is an international charity. For 30 years we have responded to the challenge of making vast amounts of research evidence useful for informing decisions about health. We do this by synthesising research findings and our work has been recognised as the international gold standard for high quality, trusted information.

As Methods Implementation Editor, you will play a crucial role in driving the successful delivery of methods-related projects and developments in Cochrane. You will work closely with cross-functional teams and renowned methodologists in our community to ensure Cochrane continues to use rigorous, up-to-date and innovative methods.

The Methods Implementation Editor sits in the Editorial Policy and Research Integrity team in Cochrane’s Evidence Production and Methods Directorate. This team focuses on defining and implementing best practice in systematic review methods, research integrity and publication ethics, as well as facilitating adherence to Cochrane standards through work aimed at continuous improvement. Working together, this team helps define the foundations for trusted evidence that sets Cochrane reviews apart, facilitating our mission and strategic goals.

Don’t have every single qualification? We know that some people are less likely to apply for a job unless they are a perfect match. At Cochrane, we’re not looking for “perfect matches.” We’re looking to welcome people to our diverse, inclusive, and passionate workplace. So, if you’re excited about this role but don’t have every single qualification, we encourage you to apply anyway. Whether it’s this role or another one, you may be just the right candidate.

Our organization is built on four core values:

Collaboration: Underpins everything we do, locally and globally.

Relevant: The right evidence at the right time in the right format.

Integrity: Independent and transparent.

Quality: Reviewing and improving what we do, maintaining rigour and trust.

You can expect:

• An opportunity to truly impact health globally.
•   A flexible work environment
• A comprehensive onboarding experiences.
•  An environment where people feel welcome, heard, and included, regardless of their differences.

Cochrane welcomes applications from a wide range of perspectives, experiences, locations, and backgrounds; diversity, equity and inclusion are key to our values.

How to apply

•  For further information on the role and click “how to apply”.
• The deadline to receive your application is 11 November, 2024.
• The supporting statement should indicate why you are applying for the post, and how far you meet the requirements, using specific examples.
• Read our Recruitment Privacy Statement

Cochrane's members and supporters come from more than 130 countries, worldwide. Our volunteers and contributors are researchers, health professionals, patients, carers, people passionate about improving health outcomes for everyone, everywhere.

Getting involved in Cochrane’s work means becoming part of a global community. The Cochrane International Mobility programme connects successful applicants with a placement in a host Cochrane Group, where they learn about the production, use, and knowledge translation of Cochrane reviews. The prgramme offers opportunities for learning and training not only for participants but also for host staff.

In this series, we profile those who have participated in the Cochrane International Mobility Program and learn more about their experiences.

Name: Silvana Urru
Location: Italy
CIM Location: Cochrane Sweden

How did you first learn about Cochrane?
As a researcher, I have always sought evidence to support hypotheses, and discovering that there was an international non-profit organization dedicated to gathering, critically evaluating, and disseminating information on the efficacy and safety of healthcare interventions was incredibly exciting for me. I decided to deepen my understanding and contribute, in my own small way, to this organization. Initially, I participated as a volunteer in on the citizen science platform,  Cochrane Crowd, with Anna Noel Storr. Later, I joined the Board of Directors of the Alessandro Liberati Association – Cochrane  Italy Affiliate Centre. There, I had the good fortune to meet the President, Maria Grazia Celani, neurologist, that works at the Neurophysiopathology Unit of the Perugia Hospital and is the head of the clinic for demyelinating diseases. She is involved in epidemiological research and randomized controlled trials. She is a methodologist within the Cochrane Neurological Sciences Field and is the author of several Cochrane systematic reviews on interventions and diagnostics. Her enthusiasm for evidence-based research is particularly focused on conveying to clinicians the importance of continuous learning and sharing the best available evidence with colleagues in order to address relevant questions for patients. Maria Grazia connected me with Matteo Bruschettini from Cochrane Sweden.

What was your Cochrane International Mobility experience like?
In 2023, Matteo invited me to participate in a Cochrane review. Matteo was incredibly kind, supportive, and highly professional in both neonatal care and evidence synthesis. Our small team of five met regularly over Zoom, where Matteo patiently guided us through each step, explaining everything in detail—from the evolution of Cochrane methodologies to practical tips on using the RevMan software. 

What are you doing now in relation to your virtual Cochrane International Mobility experience?
Our Cochrane review on strategies for the cessation of caffeine administration in preterm infants has been recently published. Thanks to Matteo, who is extremely professional and exceptionally skilled, I have learned a lot and continue to do so. We have more studies planned, and with his guidance, I am confident that we will complete them soon.

It is crucial to bring as much scientific evidence as possible into the healthcare field, as it is fundamental for patient safety and for shaping health policy strategies.

Do you have any words of advice to anyone considering a Cochrane International Mobility experience?Yes! Do not hesitate to contact the Cochrane center wherever you are based, or to search for posts in volunteer platform, Cochrane Engage. Doing a systematic review is great way to master research methodology and to provide reliable evidence synthesis.

Cochrane's members and supporters come from more than 130 countries, worldwide. Our volunteers and contributors are researchers, health professionals, patients, carers, people passionate about improving health outcomes for everyone, everywhere.

Getting involved in Cochrane’s work means becoming part of a global community. The Cochrane International Mobility programme connects successful applicants with a placement in a host Cochrane Group, where they learn about the production, use, and knowledge translation of Cochrane reviews. The prgramme offers opportunities for learning and training not only for participants but also for host staff.

In this series, we profile those who have participated in the Cochrane International Mobility Program and learn more about their experiences.

Name: Silvana Urru
Location: Italy
CIM Location: Cochrane Sweden

How did you first learn about Cochrane?
As a researcher, I have always sought evidence to support hypotheses, and discovering that there was an international non-profit organization dedicated to gathering, critically evaluating, and disseminating information on the efficacy and safety of healthcare interventions was incredibly exciting for me. I decided to deepen my understanding and contribute, in my own small way, to this organization. Initially, I participated as a volunteer in on the citizen science platform,  Cochrane Crowd, with Anna Noel Storr. Later, I joined the Board of Directors of the Alessandro Liberati Association – Cochrane  Italy Affiliate Centre. There, I had the good fortune to meet the President, Maria Grazia Celani, neurologist, that works at the Neurophysiopathology Unit of the Perugia Hospital and is the head of the clinic for demyelinating diseases. She is involved in epidemiological research and randomized controlled trials. She is a methodologist within the Cochrane Neurological Sciences Field and is the author of several Cochrane systematic reviews on interventions and diagnostics. Her enthusiasm for evidence-based research is particularly focused on conveying to clinicians the importance of continuous learning and sharing the best available evidence with colleagues in order to address relevant questions for patients. Maria Grazia connected me with Matteo Bruschettini from Cochrane Sweden.

What was your Cochrane International Mobility experience like?
In 2023, Matteo invited me to participate in a Cochrane review. Matteo was incredibly kind, supportive, and highly professional in both neonatal care and evidence synthesis. Our small team of five met regularly over Zoom, where Matteo patiently guided us through each step, explaining everything in detail—from the evolution of Cochrane methodologies to practical tips on using the RevMan software. 

What are you doing now in relation to your virtual Cochrane International Mobility experience?
Our Cochrane review on strategies for the cessation of caffeine administration in preterm infants has been recently published. Thanks to Matteo, who is extremely professional and exceptionally skilled, I have learned a lot and continue to do so. We have more studies planned, and with his guidance, I am confident that we will complete them soon.

It is crucial to bring as much scientific evidence as possible into the healthcare field, as it is fundamental for patient safety and for shaping health policy strategies.

Do you have any words of advice to anyone considering a Cochrane International Mobility experience?Yes! Do not hesitate to contact the Cochrane center wherever you are based, or to search for posts in volunteer platform, Cochrane Engage. Doing a systematic review is great way to master research methodology and to provide reliable evidence synthesis.

Title: Executive Support Officer
Specifications: Permanent – Full time
Salary: £43,000 per annum
Location: Remote working
Closing date: 7 November 2024

Cochrane is an international charity. For 30 years we have responded to the challenge of making vast amounts of research evidence useful for informing decisions about health. We do this by synthesising research findings and our work has been recognised as the international gold standard for high quality, trusted information.

Cochrane's strength is in its collaborative, global community. We have 110,000+ members and supporters around the world. Though we are spread out across the globe, our shared passion for health evidence unites us. Our Central Executive Team supports this work and is divided into five directorates: Evidence Production and Methods, Publishing and Technology, Development, Chief Executive Office and Finance and Corporate Services.

As the Executive Support Officer, you will be key in providing high-level administrative, organizational, and logistical support to the Editor-in-Chief (EiC) and facilitating alignment with the senior Evidence Production & Methods (EPMD) team. This role is essential for ensuring the smooth operation of EPMD projects and activities while also supporting Cochrane’s Editorial Board. By efficiently managing administrative tasks and optimizing processes, you will enable the EiC to concentrate on strategic priorities and key projects.

Don’t have every single qualification? We know that some people are less likely to apply for a job unless they are a perfect match. At Cochrane, we’re not looking for “perfect matches.” We’re looking to welcome people to our diverse, inclusive, and passionate workplace. So, if you’re excited about this role but don’t have every single qualification, we encourage you to apply anyway. Whether it’s this role or another one, you may be just the right candidate.

Our organization is built on four core values:
Collaboration: Underpins everything we do, locally and globally.
Relevant: The right evidence at the right time in the right format.
Integrity: Independent and transparent.
Quality: Reviewing and improving what we do, maintaining rigour and trust.

You can expect:

• An opportunity to truly impact health globally.
• A flexible work environment.
• A comprehensive onboarding experiences.
• An environment where people feel welcome, heard, and included, regardless of their differences.

Cochrane welcomes applications from a wide range of perspectives, experiences, locations, and backgrounds; diversity, equity and inclusion are key to our values.

How to apply 

• For further information on the role and click “how to apply”.
• The deadline to receive your application is 7 November 2024.
• The supporting statement should indicate why you are applying for the post, and how far you meet the requirements, using specific examples.
• Read our Recruitment Privacy Statement.