Update on the JCE GRADE series and other GRADE article types

JCE has introduced a new series called GRADE Notes. This commentary concerning these GRADE Notes is an official communication from JCE and the GRADE Guidance Group, the 12 individuals who act on behalf of the GRADE Working Group. The GRADE Working Group publishes official guidance articles and concept articles related to GRADE. GRADE guidance articles (previous called GRADE Guidelines)[ [1] Guyatt G Oxman AD Akl EA Kunz R Vist G Brozek J et al. GRADE guidelines: 1. Introduction-GRADE evidence profiles and summary of findings tables. J Clin Epidemiol. 2011; 64 (Apr): 383-394 Abstract Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (4535) Google Scholar ] typically include "how to use GRADE" information supplemented with examples. GRADE concept articles discuss concepts (e.g., new ways of defining certainty of evidence) that may not have been piloted on examples and that may not necessarily result in GRADE guidance. However, GRADE concept articles are intended to further develop an area relevant to assessing the certainty in evidence and/or supporting recommendations. These articles explicitly discuss the concept that relates to GRADE and how it relates to existing GRADE domains, criteria, and guidance. Several GRADE concept articles have been published and the JCE recently began a new numbering system to separate Guidance from Concept articles.[ [2] Pottie K Magwood O Rahman P Concannon T Alonso-Coello P JaramilloGarcia A et al. GRADE Concept Paper 1: Validating the "F.A.C.E" instrument using stakeholder perceptions of feasibility, acceptability, cost, and equity in guideline implement. J Clin Epidemiol. 2021; 131 (Mar): 133-140 Abstract Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (3) Google Scholar ] GRADE Guidance and Concept articles have been formally approved by the GRADE Working Group after a process of drafting articles, presentations at GRADE Working Group meetings, revisions and voting by members of the GRADE Working Group.