Model-based meta-analysis (MBMA) is a new type of quantitative analysis method, random effects in statistics will be found and put into the model as well as covariates. The final model has a strong predictive ability, can be conducted to make clinical decisions and evaluation. For its complexity, MBMA study is difficult to perform which restricted its application. By summarizing current published MBMA studies as well as the authors' experience, this article introduced the principle, method and status of MBMA.
ObjectiveThis study aims to conduct a bibliometric analysis of the dataset obtained from a systematic review of Model-Based Meta-Analysis (MBMA) studies to uncover research trends in MBMA. MethodsWe conducted a systematic search across databases including Embase, MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, CNKI, VIP, WanFang Data, and Sinomed. Relevant literature pertaining to MBMA was screened and included. Qualitative and quantitative analyses were performed to assess author contributions, temporal trends, national distribution, and disease prevalence. ResultsA total of 129 articles were included in the analysis, most published in being China (n=48), the United States (n=47), and the United Kingdom (n=7). The time span covered by these articles ranged from 2005 to 2023. A total of 531 researchers contributed to the included studies, with first authors from 15 different countries. The compilation encompassed 402 keywords, with the three most frequently used being “Meta-analysis” (n=28), “Model-based meta-analysis” (n=27), and “Pharmacokinetics” (n=14). The study covered 16 distinct disease categories, with the top three neoplasms (n=16), neurological disorders (n=14), and endocrine and metabolic diseases (n=13). ConclusionBibliometric analysis showed that the number of MBMA studies has increased significantly over the past three years, using a variety of key diseases as carriers. However, this new type of quantitative research has not yet attracted sufficient attention, and the research power is still concentrated in China and the United States; Moreover, a core group of authors has not yet been formed, it is necessary for scholars from various countries to strengthen multidisciplinary cooperation and communication to promote the production and translation of high-quality evidence.