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Publication bias in situ.

Carl V Phillips1

  • 1Center for Philosophy, Health, and Policy Sciences, Inc., Houston, USA. carl.v.phillips@cphps.org

BMC Medical Research Methodology
|August 7, 2004
PubMed
Summary

Publication bias in situ (PBIS) arises from data analysis and reporting choices within published studies, potentially causing greater bias than the failure to publish studies. Recognizing and addressing PBIS is crucial for accurate scientific literature.

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Area of Science:

  • Biostatistics
  • Scientific Publishing
  • Research Integrity

Background:

  • Traditional publication bias involves the non-publication of studies with non-significant results.
  • Publication bias in situ (PBIS) refers to bias introduced by data analysis and reporting choices within published studies.
  • PBIS is distinct from traditional publication bias and may have a more significant impact on scientific literature.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To introduce and define publication bias in situ (PBIS).
  • To highlight the significant impact of PBIS on reported research findings.
  • To advocate for greater recognition and systematic efforts to identify and reduce PBIS.

Main Methods:

  • The study defines PBIS based on analytical and reporting decisions within published research.
  • Examples, including an HIV vaccine trial, are used to illustrate the impact of PBIS.
  • The paper discusses the limitations of statistical tools in addressing PBIS.

Main Results:

  • PBIS can create substantial bias in the scientific literature, potentially exceeding that of traditional publication bias.
  • Decisions about data analysis and reporting, influenced by data, are key drivers of PBIS.
  • The impact of PBIS is often underestimated, with limited attention devoted to its identification and reduction.

Conclusions:

  • PBIS is a pervasive issue stemming from non-statistical choices and interpretation, not merely statistical problems.
  • Existing statistical methods are often impractical and ineffective in mitigating PBIS.
  • Greater systematic efforts are needed to study, identify, and reduce PBIS to improve the reliability of scientific literature.

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