Article type
Abstract
Background
Citation searches are used in addition to database searches in evidence syntheses. Their purpose is to find additional relevant study publications based on their citation relationships with already known study publications. Citation searching methodology and terminology lack standardization.
Objectives
Our aim was to develop evidence- and consensus-based guidance on terminology, application, reporting, and research priorities of citation searching.
Methods
The development of the Terminology, Application, and Reporting of Citation Searching (TARCiS) statement was based on a 2-step process. First, we carried out a scoping review on citation searching benefits, tools, and terminology to systematically investigate the evidence base for the formulation of draft recommendations and identify experts in the field. Second, we conducted a 4-round Delphi study with international experts and composed the TARCiS statement. An agreement rate of at least 75% per recommendation was predefined as consensus.
Results
Forty-one terms, 8 recommendations, and 1 research topic were derived from the scoping review. We invited 35 international experts in the field (mainly researchers and information specialists/librarians), and 27 of them took part in the Delphi study. We did not involve patients or members of the public. The Delphi study resulted in 1 recommendation on terminology, 8 on conduct, and 1 on reporting of citation searching and 4 suggestions for research priorities. The agreement rate per recommendation was between 83% and 100%. The recommendations and research priorities will be presented at the Global Evidence Summit.
Conclusions
The TARCiS statement contributes to the standardized use and reporting of citation searching. We encourage those conducting evidence syntheses to incorporate it into their workflows.
Citation searches are used in addition to database searches in evidence syntheses. Their purpose is to find additional relevant study publications based on their citation relationships with already known study publications. Citation searching methodology and terminology lack standardization.
Objectives
Our aim was to develop evidence- and consensus-based guidance on terminology, application, reporting, and research priorities of citation searching.
Methods
The development of the Terminology, Application, and Reporting of Citation Searching (TARCiS) statement was based on a 2-step process. First, we carried out a scoping review on citation searching benefits, tools, and terminology to systematically investigate the evidence base for the formulation of draft recommendations and identify experts in the field. Second, we conducted a 4-round Delphi study with international experts and composed the TARCiS statement. An agreement rate of at least 75% per recommendation was predefined as consensus.
Results
Forty-one terms, 8 recommendations, and 1 research topic were derived from the scoping review. We invited 35 international experts in the field (mainly researchers and information specialists/librarians), and 27 of them took part in the Delphi study. We did not involve patients or members of the public. The Delphi study resulted in 1 recommendation on terminology, 8 on conduct, and 1 on reporting of citation searching and 4 suggestions for research priorities. The agreement rate per recommendation was between 83% and 100%. The recommendations and research priorities will be presented at the Global Evidence Summit.
Conclusions
The TARCiS statement contributes to the standardized use and reporting of citation searching. We encourage those conducting evidence syntheses to incorporate it into their workflows.