Software Tools for Interoperable Taxonomic Databases: The ICTVdB Prototype

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This project will research new tools for improved data structures and management of a major biological database in an effort to standardize nomenclature, conceptual information and semantic content, all key problems of community databases. The prototype system developed earlier will lead to a fully evolved, distributed system during this phase. The Universal Virus Database (ICTVdB), an advanced, biological database maintained for the International Committee on the Taxonomy of Viruses (ICTV), serves as the prototype. An international team will collaborate to develop and test software for functional integration and web-based access to two widely used, stand- alone special purpose software tools that have been independently developed to handle taxonomic data. The tools to be refined and integrated for ICTVdB are DELTA (Description Language for Taxonomy) and Micro-IS (Microbial Information System). Integration will preserve the unique features of each, while providing the widest capabilities for disparate requirements of various user groups, through a conversion program that automatically translates DELTA formatted data to Micro-IS format. DELTA, with its supporting suite of applications, facilitates both the building oftaxonomic descriptions in natural language and the identification of unknown biological entities by matching with known entities. Micro-IS is designed for the storage, management, and analysis of biological data via an object oriented database engine. The resultant tools will be applicable to any biological database that seeks to make the most effective use of information from a multitude of levels. The ultimate goal of this project is to provide software tools with common standards to be used as Windows 95/NT desktop and/or web-based applications. These will convert ICTVdB from a reference resource to a research tool for studies of phylogeny and evolutionary relationships. The tools will also enhance access to a well-curated community database in v irology for client use and facilitate routine submission of emerging data. All of the products of this research project will be available to investigators in other fields for existing applications and further enhancements. Abslract July 25, 1998 I