CDM

CDM is an acronym used in multiple domains, and there is no single universal meaning. Depending on context, CDM can refer to topics in science, medicine, and information technology.

In cosmology, CDM stands for Cold Dark Matter, a theoretical form of matter composed of non-baryonic particles that move slowly and interact only weakly with ordinary matter. In the standard ΛCDM model, cold dark matter provides the gravitational scaffolding for the formation of galaxies and large-scale structure in the universe. Evidence for CDM comes from observations such as galaxy rotation curves, gravitational lensing, and the cosmic microwave background. Direct detection of dark matter particles remains an ongoing experimental pursuit, with no conclusive confirmation to date.

In clinical research, CDM denotes Clinical Data Management, the process of collecting, cleaning, and managing data from clinical trials to ensure accuracy and regulatory compliance. Activities typically include study design and database setup, electronic capture of case report form data, data validation and query resolution, coding of adverse events, and the database lock. CDM work is conducted under good clinical practice and applicable regulatory requirements to support reliable analysis and reporting.

In information technology, CDM often means Common Data Model, a standardized data schema designed to enable interoperability across software systems and organizations. Examples include Microsoft's Common Data Model used in the Power Platform and data integration ecosystems, and the OMOP-CDM used by the OHDSI community to harmonize health data for observational research.

In data engineering and IT operations, CDM can also stand for Change Data Management, the practices and tools used to capture, propagate, and govern data changes across systems.

Because CDM has multiple meanings, the intended concept depends on context.