Summary
We have created a Web-based repository or data library of information about measurement
instruments used in studies of multi-factorial geriatric health conditions (the Geriatrics
Research Instrument Library – GRIL) based upon existing features of two separate clinical
study data management systems. GRIL allows browsing, searching, and selecting measurement
instruments based upon criteria such as keywords and areas of applicability. Measurement
instruments selected can be printed and/or included in an automatically generated
standalone microcomputer database application, which can be downloaded by investigators
for use in data collection and data management.
Methods:
Integration of database applications requires the creation of a common semantic model,
and mapping from each system to this model. Various database schema conflicts at the
table and attribute level must be identified and resolved prior to integration. Using
a conflict taxonomy and a mapping schema facilitates this process.
Results:
Critical conflicts at the table level that required resolution included name and
relationship differences.
Conclusions:
A major benefit of integration efforts is the sharing of features and cross-fertilization
of applications created for similar purposes in different operating environments.
Integration of applications mandates some degree of metadata model unification.
Keywords
Database interoperation - clinical research database management systems
