Introducing TNC DoCS

PI Lead:  Dr. Alexander Li Cohen, MD, PhD

Email:  TNCDoCS@childrens.harvard.edu

In the ever-changing digital landscape for research, managing data efficiently is essential. The newly launched Data Organization Collaborative Service (TNC DoCS) at the Rosamund Stone Zander Translational Neuroscience Center, offers tailored support for research laboratories seeking to navigate the digital data management space effectively.

Services include One-on-One Consultation for digital transformation, an ESP Database for participant tracking, and REDCap Streamlining Services for enhanced data collection. TNC DoCS encourages researchers to adopt digital research advancements and assists researchers at any stage of your research.  The program offers comprehensive data management support tailored to the diverse needs of our research laboratories.

TNC DoCS Services

At TNC DoCS, our services are designed to simplify the complexities of data management. From One-on-One Consultation to the ESP Database and REDCap Streamlining Services, our goal is to offer researchers innovative solutions that enhance efficiency and streamline workflows.

One-on-One consultation: Expert Guidance for Digital Transformation

One-on-One Consultation services provide personalized technical support and guidance aimed at facilitating digital transformation within research laboratories. With a focus on automating manual/repetitive tasks and processes, we work closely with researchers to develop customized software and tools. This enables research labs to streamline procedures and replace outdated data-related operations, freeing up more time and effort to be dedicated towards advancing our common scientific goals.

ESP Database: Revolutionizing Participant Tracking (In Development)

Our ESP Database transforms participant tracking, enabling researchers to monitor assessments from participants and their families effectively. With this innovative digital technology, we lessen the workload on study teams and resources, leading to enhanced research output. The ESP Database offers secure connectivity between studies, ensuring strong privacy protocols for seamless collaboration and protection of data integrity and participant privacy.

REDCap Streamlining Services: Enhancing Data Collection (In Development)

REDCap streamlining Services are designed to enhance data collection and collaboration among research labs. Through reproducible data collection protocols, version control, validation checks, and data cleaning tools, we ensure that researchers have access to accurate and comprehensive data. By promoting seamless collaboration and data sharing, REDCap Streamlining Services facilitate interdisciplinary research efforts, driving innovation and discovery forward.

Completed Projects: Demonstrating Real-World Impact

Our impact and dedication to advancing research through streamlined data management are highlighted in the projects and initiatives below:

• Tailoring data backup automation pipelines
• Designing automated EEG data collection systems
• Offering thorough Docker training for pipeline containerization
• Data Preparation for NDA Submission

Each initiative showcases our commitment to improving research efficiency and promoting smooth teamwork.

Data Backup Optimization – Human Neuron Core & Biorepository Core

Tailored a data backup automation pipeline for backing up large files and archiving data. The project commenced with an analysis of current data backup processes to comprehend the procedures and identify potential issues and bottlenecks. Assistance was provided in setting up and configuring the new backup solution within the system, accompanied by comprehensive documentation of all the procedures in a user manual. Additionally, training sessions were conducted for laboratory staff to ensure proficient understanding and effective implementation of the new data backup automation pipeline.

Automation Pipeline for Multisite EEG Data Collection – Maski’s Lab

Designed and implemented an automated pipeline to retrieve data from multiple collaboration sites, consolidating and storing data in a centralized database. The process involved integrating extraction, transformation, and loading steps for seamless integration. The project began with thorough consultations to grasp the data collection process and infrastructure, followed by evaluating existing data infrastructure across multiple collaboration sites to pinpoint areas for enhancement.

Docker Training – Epilepsy Surgery Outcomes/CRL

Guided team members through the process of containerizing the fMRI processing pipeline step by step, aiding in creating Dockerfiles and integrating components into a complete containerized pipeline. This project commenced with an initial meeting to gather background information and assess team members’ familiarity with Docker. Challenges encountered during previous attempts to containerize the fMRI processing pipeline were discussed and suitable solutions were identified through reviewing and assessing the existing pipeline. Hands-on practices were encouraged to reinforce understanding and confidence in Docker usage.

Data Preparation for NDA Submission – The Emotion Project

Developed Python notebooks based on provided SPSS code for 5 different measures, tailoring them to meet the requirements of NDA data submission. This project commenced with an initial meeting with the team to understand project requirements and expectations. It concluded with a thorough cross-validation to ensure code integrity for each measure.

Contact Information

We invite researchers to embrace digital acceleration and transformative advancements in research with TNC DoCS. Whether you’re a seasoned researcher or just beginning your scientific journey, our team is dedicated to supporting you every step of the way.

PI Lead in this project:  Dr. Alexander Li Cohen, MD, PhD

Email:  TNCDoCS@childrens.harvard.edu