Inconsistency, heterogeneity, and Publication bias analysis
For assessment of study heterogeneity, the Chi-squared test and I2-statistic were used (considering I2 values as follows: low: < 25%, moderate:25% to 50%, or high: > 50%).15 Within design heterogeneity and between design inconsistency were evaluated using Cochrane’s Q. A random-effects model was preferred, regardless of both inconsistency and heterogeneity. Publication bias was evaluated by visual inspection of funnel plots and Egger’s test (p-value < 0.05, indicating a possible publication bias) (Supplementary Material, File 2)
RESULTS