Literature search
- WMO
- Non-WMO
Literature search
A search and analysis of the scientific literature relevant to the research question under consideration is essential for developing well-founded research questions, hypotheses and a solid research plan. Conducting a comprehensive and targeted review of the most relevant publications ensures that the study aligns with the latest scientific insights.
All information from reliable sources should be considered, as scientific literature serves as a critical data source. To promote scientific transparency and reproducibility, the processes of literature search, retrieval, extraction, and interpretation should be documented- even when the literature review is not the primary goal of the study itself.
Plan:
- Conduct a comprehensive review of literature across relevant and associated fields to formulate a preliminary research question or hypothesis;
- Perform an in-depth review of literature most relevant to the preliminary research question or hypothesis to refine the research question or hypothesis;
- Repeat this review process to arrive at a definitive research question or hypothesis;
- Periodically review new literature to ensure the study incorporates the most current information.
The Medical Library Research Support can help you find scientific information within your research area. Their online platform provides access to a large number of digital journals, medical and other databases. Additionally, they offer support on conducting literature searches for relevant studies.
For further assistance with conducting a thorough literature review, you can request support from the department Epidemiology and Data Science (EDS) on their Service Portal EDS-Consult.
Trial Registers
The following public registers can help identify published studies and ongoing medical scientific research in your area:
- Overview of Medical Research in the Netherlands (OMON): Registry for medical scientific research conducted in The Netherlands;
- Clinicaltrials.gov: U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) database for clinical trials;
- Clinicaltrialsregister.eu: European register with information on pharmaceutical trials within the EU;
- ISRCTN register: International Standard Randomised Controlled Trial Number Register;
- WHO International Clinical Trials Registry: Global registry managed by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Important note: a registration in a public register approved by the WHO is mandatory to qualify for publication in an increasing number of medical and biomedical journals.
OMON currently includes all research from the former National Trial Register (NTR), ToetsingOnline and the Research Portal. See the Professionals page for more information on managing research data and future developments.
Information from the NTR is only available in English. Other information is available in both Dutch and English. Be aware that certain details may be outdated (such as 'Status of recruitment'). Therefore, when in doubt, always check with the submitting party responsible for the study for the most current information. Contact details are available under the 'Contacts' section of each study record.