The Biospecimen Research Database: Upgraded

Monday, September 22, 2014 — Poster Session I
12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.	FAES Academic Center	NCI	RSCHSUPP-13

Authors

• JC Keen
• K Engel
• S Greytak
• BP Bass
• P Guan
• HM Moore

Abstract

The Biospecimen Research Database (BRD; http://biospecimens.cancer.gov/brd) is a free and publicly accessible database, originally developed in 2008, that contains published research articles focusing on the pre-analytical variability of biospecimen collection, handling, storage and analysis. In accordance with BBRB’s intent to serve the Biospecimen Science community, a new version of BRD aimed at improving user interface is scheduled for release in June 2014. Enhancements to the database include (1) a dynamic homepage with a "News and Announcements" section, featured papers selected by a Ph.D. scientist, an automated list of BRD-pertinent Tweets issued through the NCI's Biospecimens account, and a user-specific list of recently viewed entries; (2) enhanced search features that include a keyword search that permits inquiries of specific genes and biomarkers, and (3) user commenting for each paper entry. In addition to the 2,050 articles currently contained within BRD, approximately 50 articles are added every month and a "Suggest a New Paper" feature is available to all users. The BRD is particularly well-suited for performing meta-analysis, and has been used to generate the first in an anticipated series of evidence-based procedural guidelines, termed NCI's Biospecimen Evidence-Based Practices. Feedback and article referrals are welcome and currently can be submitted to biospecimens@mail.nih.gov.

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