Common data elements (CDEs) for preclinical epilepsy research: Introduction to CDEs and description of core CDEs. A TASK3 report of the ILAE/AES joint translational task force

Common data elements (CDEs) are becoming more common as more areas of preclinical research have generated CDEs. Herein we provide an overview of the progress to date in generating CDEs for preclinical epilepsy research. Currently there are CDEs that have been developed for Physiology (in vivo), Behavior, Pharmacology, and Electroencephalography (EEG). Together the CDEs and methodologic considerations associated with these CDEs are laid out in consecutive manuscripts published in Epilepsia Open, each describing CDEs for their respective topic area. In addition to the overview of progress for the 4 subjects, core characteristics (Core CDEs) are described and explained. Data collection using a case report form (CRF) is described, and considerations that are involved in using the CDEs and CRFs are discussed.