Extract age, condition, and exclusion fields from the registry record into fixed columns, then flag any criterion stated only in the paper for confirmation. ClinicalTrials.gov defines structured registration fields for study identification, status, design, eligibility, locations, and outcomes, so the eligibility section is the place to start before you open the publication.
- Open the registry record and copy the eligibility section into three fixed fields: age, condition, and exclusion criteria. Record the registry identifier alongside them so each row traces back to one study. Expected result: a row with the registry-stated criteria separated by type.
- Read the paper's methods and participant sections and compare each criterion against the registry row. Mark criteria that appear only in the paper, such as added lab thresholds or prior-treatment rules, with a flag column. Expected result: every criterion carries a source label of registry or paper.
- Resolve conflicts by recording both versions in the row and noting which document states each. Expected result: a reviewer can see where the registry and paper diverge without reopening either file.
Use the registry search filters for condition, status, and study type to build the candidate set before extraction, since ClinicalTrials.gov lets users filter records by those fields. Keep the flag column in the final deliverable so paper-only criteria are visible to whoever checks the row next.