Abstract
Introduction: Data sharing is crucial in pediatric research due to the rarity of certain genetic diseases and the limited patient population. Enhanced transparency and reproducibility through data sharing can significantly benefit pediatric studies. Despite its importance, the extent and implementation of DSS in pediatric research remain underexplored. Therefore, we aimed to explore the current landscape of data sharing practices in pediatrics by assessing inclusion of data sharing statements (DSS) in ten of the top pediatric journals.
Methods: We conducted an analysis of articles published in ten of the top pediatric journals from January 2020 to December 2023. Data elements were extracted in a masked, duplicate fashion, using a pilot-tested Google Form, and hierarchical logistic regression was employed to analyze the statements, accounting for variability at the journal and publisher levels. Additionally, authors were contacted to assess their willingness to share data upon request.
Results: Of the 1,058 articles included in our study, 55.20% included a DSS. Hierarchical logistic regression analysis indicated significant variability with factors such as journal, publisher and study design influencing the inclusion of a DSS. Furthermore, thematic analysis revealed that a large portion of studies’ data are protected by gatekeepers.
Conclusions: The prevalence of DSS in pediatric journals is increasing, yet significant barriers to effective data sharing persist. Most DSS involve a gatekeeper role, limiting direct data accessibility. Journal policies significantly influence data sharing practices. To improve transparency and reproducibility in pediatric research, efforts must address data sharing barriers and encourage the use of open data repositories.
Methods: We conducted an analysis of articles published in ten of the top pediatric journals from January 2020 to December 2023. Data elements were extracted in a masked, duplicate fashion, using a pilot-tested Google Form, and hierarchical logistic regression was employed to analyze the statements, accounting for variability at the journal and publisher levels. Additionally, authors were contacted to assess their willingness to share data upon request.
Results: Of the 1,058 articles included in our study, 55.20% included a DSS. Hierarchical logistic regression analysis indicated significant variability with factors such as journal, publisher and study design influencing the inclusion of a DSS. Furthermore, thematic analysis revealed that a large portion of studies’ data are protected by gatekeepers.
Conclusions: The prevalence of DSS in pediatric journals is increasing, yet significant barriers to effective data sharing persist. Most DSS involve a gatekeeper role, limiting direct data accessibility. Journal policies significantly influence data sharing practices. To improve transparency and reproducibility in pediatric research, efforts must address data sharing barriers and encourage the use of open data repositories.
| Original language | American English |
|---|---|
| State | Published - 14 Feb 2025 |
| Event | Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences Research Week 2025 - Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, United States Duration: 10 Feb 2025 → 14 Feb 2025 https://medicine.okstate.edu/research/research_days.html |
Conference
| Conference | Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences Research Week 2025 |
|---|---|
| Country/Territory | United States |
| City | Tulsa |
| Period | 10/02/25 → 14/02/25 |
| Internet address |
Keywords
- pediatrics
- transparency
- data sharing