Alexander J Kellmann, Max Postema, Joris de Keijser, Pjotr Svetachov, Rebecca C Wilson, Esther J van Enckevort, Morris A Swertz
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
In this report, we analyse the use of virtual reality (VR) as a method to navigate and explore complex knowledge graphs. Over the past few decades, linked data technologies [Resource Description Framework (RDF) and Web Ontology Language (OWL)] have shown to be valuable to encode such graphs and many tools have emerged to interactively visualize RDF. However, as knowledge graphs get larger, most of these tools struggle with the limitations of 2D screens or 3D projections. Therefore, in this paper, we evaluate the use of VR to visually explore SPARQL Protocol and RDF Query Language (SPARQL) (construct) queries, including a series of tutorial videos that demonstrate the power of VR (see Graph2VR tutorial playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLRQCsKSUyhNIdUzBNRTmE-_JmuiOEZbdH). We first review existing methods for Linked Data visualization and then report the creation of a prototype, Graph2VR. Finally, we report a first evaluation of the use of VR for exploring linked data graphs. Our results show that most participants enjoyed testing Graph2VR and found it to be a useful tool for graph exploration and data discovery. The usability study also provides valuable insights for potential future improvements to Linked Data visualization in VR.
期刊介绍:
Huge volumes of primary data are archived in numerous open-access databases, and with new generation technologies becoming more common in laboratories, large datasets will become even more prevalent. The archiving, curation, analysis and interpretation of all of these data are a challenge. Database development and biocuration are at the forefront of the endeavor to make sense of this mounting deluge of data.
Database: The Journal of Biological Databases and Curation provides an open access platform for the presentation of novel ideas in database research and biocuration, and aims to help strengthen the bridge between database developers, curators, and users.