Getting Started with the ADBEx App

The African Data Biospecimen Exchange (ADBEx) app is a pioneering platform designed to facilitate the exchange and sharing of biospecimen data among researchers across Africa. This guide provides a step-by-step overview to help new users get started with ADBEx, from registering and navigating the app to searching for data and submitting access requests. Whether you’re looking to access biospecimen data for a study or collaborate with other researchers, this guide will equip you with everything you need to begin using ADBEx effectively and responsibly.

1. Register and Log In

1. Create an Account:
2. • Visit the ADBEx homepage and click on "Register."
   • Fill in the required information, including your name, email, institution, and a secure password.
   • Verify your account via the confirmation email you’ll receive.
3. Log In:
4. • After registration, log in to your account by entering your email and password.
   • For security, ADBEx may require two-factor authentication (2FA).

2. Navigating the App

Upon logging in, you'll find several key areas:

1. Dashboard: Your personalized landing page with a summary of recent activity and quick access to common features.
2. Browse Biospecimen Data: This section allows you to search and filter biospecimen data available for access.
3. Requests & Access Control: Where you can view and manage requests for data access, including permissions and approval statuses.
4. User Profile: Update your profile information, such as contact details, research interests, and institution.

3. Searching for Biospecimen Data

1. Use the Search Bar:
2. • Enter keywords related to your research interest, such as disease type, sample type, or collection location.
   • Use advanced filters to refine your results by parameters like Organism Scientific Name, Sample Type, or Study Description.
3. Review Search Results:
4. • Each biospecimen entry provides key information about the sample, including source, characteristics, and available data files.
   • Click on an entry to view more details or initiate a request for access.

4. Requesting Access to Data

1. Submit an Access Request:
2. • For any restricted data, click "Request Access" to submit a formal request.
   • Fill in the request form with details on your intended use, such as research objectives and planned analyses.
   • Submit the request and wait for approval from the data owner or app administrator.
3. Track Your Requests:
4. • Go to "Requests & Access Control" to view the status of pending and approved requests.
   • Once approved, you’ll receive a notification and access to the data in your dashboard.

5. Downloading and Using Data

1. Access Approved Data:
2. • In the "Data Library" section, you can see all data you've been granted access to.
   • Click "Download" to retrieve files or open them directly within the app, if supported.
3. Data Usage Guidelines:
4. • Be sure to review any specific usage restrictions or attribution requirements for the data.

6. Support and Further Resources

1. User Support: Contact the ADBEx support team via the "Help" section for technical issues or guidance on data access.
2. Documentation: The app includes user guides and documentation on data formats, common terms, and tips for navigating the app efficiently.
3. Community: Join the community forum to connect with other researchers, discuss biospecimen data use cases, and share insights.

With these steps, you’ll be equipped to explore, request, and access biospecimen data to support your research initiatives through the ADBEx app!