Data archiving is essential for trauma research. JMPT permits deposition in disciplinary, institutional, or general repositories and requires a clear data availability statement for every submission. For sensitive clinical data, controlled access options should be described.

Include a data availability statement that identifies the repository, access URL, and license terms. Provide persistent identifiers such as DOIs and describe any access restrictions. For trauma studies, document de identification procedures and access conditions.

Cite datasets in the reference list with DOIs and version details. This supports attribution, reuse, and data level impact tracking. Provide dataset authors, title, repository, year, and persistent identifier to maintain clarity for future users.

For sensitive trauma data, use de identified datasets and controlled access repositories. Document consent limitations and access conditions. When data cannot be shared, explain restrictions and provide a process for qualified access if possible.

Select repositories that provide persistent identifiers, support updates, and allow clear metadata. Consistent naming improves long term usability. Preferred repositories support versioning, license selection, and access controls appropriate for clinical data.

Data availability statements should specify where data are stored, how they can be accessed, and under what conditions. Include links, accession numbers, and any embargo timelines. This clarity reduces reviewer queries and supports reproducibility.

Organize datasets with readable file names, a clear codebook, and a README that explains variables, instruments, and analysis steps. Well structured files help clinicians and researchers interpret results without guesswork.

JMPT encourages use of repositories with preservation policies to protect data integrity over time. Archiving ensures that trauma research remains available for replication, clinical guideline development, and education.

Apply appropriate licenses to data files so users understand permissible reuse. Licenses should align with consent limitations and privacy obligations. Clear licensing supports responsible sharing while protecting participants.

When data involve sensitive trauma histories or identifiable clinical records, use controlled access repositories. Provide criteria for access, data use agreements, and contact information for requests. This balances transparency with participant protection.

If your study includes a data management plan, summarize how data were stored, cleaned, and documented. Consistent data management improves reproducibility and supports future reuse by clinicians and researchers.

Perform basic quality checks before archiving, including validation of variable ranges, missing data notes, and file integrity checksums. Document any transformations so secondary users can interpret the data correctly.

Indicate data licensing terms clearly in the repository and in the manuscript. Align licenses with consent restrictions and institutional policies to prevent misuse while enabling legitimate reuse.

For multi site studies, confirm that all participating institutions approve data sharing terms. Document any site specific restrictions to avoid compliance issues after publication.

When citing data, use a formal reference format that includes authors, title, repository, year, version, and DOI. Consistent citations improve discoverability and allow data reuse to be credited appropriately.

Provide contact details for data access requests and specify expected response times. If access requires approval, describe the review committee or data custodian. Clear access instructions demonstrate responsible sharing while protecting sensitive trauma data.

Include a README file that explains variables, coding decisions, and data collection context. Well documented data reduce ambiguity and support reproducible secondary analyses. If clinical instruments are used, include scoring guidance or reference links where allowed.