Extended Age Queries

[Grant]

Overview

The Extended Age Query (EAQ) feature enhances the querying capabilities for the Collection Object (CO) table within the Query Builder by allowing users to filter collections based on geological ages. It is a powerful tool for researchers and curators in the geological and paleontological fields to accurately filter and analyze collection objects. By using both named periods and numerical ranges, users can improve their data queries and gain a deeper understanding of their collections.

This functionality is only available in the Geology, Invertebrate Paleontology, and Vertebrate Paleontology disciplines.

Query Logic

The EAQ logic is based on start and end numbers (assuming Millions of Years Ago, MYA) derived from the Chronostratigraphy (GeologicTimePeriod) table.

Only nodes with valid StartPeriod and EndPeriod values are considered during the query process, meaning only nodes where StartPeriod is greater than EndPeriod.

The EAQ supports two primary methods for querying: by name and by range.

Key Features

• Filtering Criteria: Only valid nodes in the Chronostratigraphy tree are used, ensuring that only relevant data is queried.
• Range Calculation: The EAQ uses the lowest EndPeriod and the highest StartPeriod values to define the range.
• User Interface: The EAQ field is integrated within the query builder, included as the field “Age” in Collection Object, allowing users to easily select and input their criteria.

How to Use the EAQ

Step-by-Step Workflow

1. Create or Modify a Query: Start by creating a new query or modifying an existing Collection Object query in the Query Builder.

2. Add the EAQ Field: Locate the ‘Age’ field in the query builder interface and add it to your query.

3. Select Query Method:

   • By Name:
     
     
     • Choose the Name operator.
     • Enter the name of a geological time period from the GeologicTimePeriod table. The system will convert this name into a corresponding range based on the startPeriod and endPeriod values.
   • By Range:
     
     
     • Choose the Range operator.
     • Enter a start and end period value (e.g., 15 and 5 for a range of 15 MYA to 5 MYA).

4. Select Query Type:

   • Choose between Strict and Non-strict search options:
     • Strict: Only results that fall entirely within the specified range will be returned.
     • Non-strict: Any results that overlap with the specified range will be returned.

5. Run the Query: Execute the query to retrieve results based on the specified criteria.

Query Logic

The EAQ searches the following areas based on the user’s input:

• Relative Age:
  • Searches the AgeNameID field, which is a foreign key to the geologictimeperiod table.
  • Uses the startPeriod and endPeriod fields linked to the selected age record.
  • Computed Range: startPeriod - endPeriod.
• Absolute Age:
  • Searches the AbsoluteAge and AgeUncertainty fields directly.
  • Computes a range using the formula:
    • Example:
      • AbsoluteAge = 10 MYA
      • AgeUncertainty = 5 MYA
      • Computed Range: 15 - 5 MYA.
• Paleo Context:
  • Searches the ChronosStratID and ChronosStratEndID fields, which are foreign keys to the geologictimeperiod table.
  • Computes the widest range if ChronosStratEndID is present.
  • Computed Range: startPeriod - endPeriod.