A Standards based Ontological Approach to Information Handling for use by Organizations Providing Human Tissue for Research
2008

A Standards based Ontological Approach to Information Handling for Human Tissue Research

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Mary E. Edgerton, Carl Morrison, Virginia A. LiVolsi, Christopher A. Moskaluk, Stephen J. Qualman, M. Kay Washington, William E. Grizzle

Primary Institution: University of Alabama at Birmingham

Hypothesis

The study aims to develop an informatics system that effectively manages tissue requests using histological definitions and complies with cancer data standards.

Conclusion

The CHTN has created a user-friendly vocabulary system and search engine for managing tissue requests that accommodates users with varying educational backgrounds.

Supporting Evidence

  • The CHTN is the only specialized human tissue resource funded by the National Cancer Institute.
  • Prospective collection allows researchers to control pre-analytical variables affecting research results.
  • The informatics system must accommodate users with varying educational backgrounds.

Takeaway

This study helps researchers get the right human tissues for their studies by making it easier to request and manage tissue samples.

Methodology

The study describes the development of an informatics system called TissueQuest© for managing tissue requests and ensuring compliance with data standards.

Limitations

The study does not address the complexities of all non-neoplastic diseases and the evolving nature of disease terminology.

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