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Instance maps as an organising concept for complex experimental workflows as demonstrated for (nano)material safety
Benjamin Punz1, Maja Brajnik2, Joh Dokler2
1Department of Biosciences & Medical Biology, Paris Lodron University of Salzburg, Hellbrunnerstrasse 34, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.
Beilstein Journal of Nanotechnology
|January 29, 2025
Summary
Instance maps visualize complex nanosafety research workflows, improving data management and promoting FAIR data principles for enhanced research reproducibility and collaboration.
Area of Science:
- Nanosafety assessment and risk evaluation of engineered nanomaterials.
- Data management and research output strategies in scientific research.
- Application of computational and experimental approaches in toxicology.
Background:
- Nanosafety assessment involves complex workflows across synthesis, exposure science, toxicology, and computational methods, generating diverse data types.
- Effective data management, focusing on provenance and quality, is crucial for maximizing data reuse and value in research.
- Bridging the gap between theoretical FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Re-usable) data principles and practical research implementation is essential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present the development and application of Instance Maps for visualizing experimental nanosafety workflows.
- To demonstrate the utility of the InstanceMaps tool in managing data flows and improving research output management.
- To showcase the application of Instance Maps across a range of nanosafety research complexities, from material characterization to multi-partner projects.
Main Methods:
- Development and application of the InstanceMaps tool to visualize experimental workflows.
- Documentation of nanomaterial synthesis, characterization, and transformation studies.
- Integration of ecotoxicity testing with model organisms (e.g., *Daphnia magna*) and human immunotoxicity assessments.
- Coordination of materials and data flows in collaborative, multi-partner research projects.
Main Results:
- Instance Maps effectively visualize experimental workflows, associating materials, conditions, protocols, and data flows.
- The InstanceMaps tool demonstrates utility across diverse nanosafety research scenarios, including material characterization, environmental fate, ecotoxicity, and immunotoxicity.
- The approach facilitates coordination and data management in complex, collaborative research projects.
Conclusions:
- Instance Maps are a valuable tool for visualizing and managing complex nanosafety research workflows.
- Application of Instance Maps enhances data provenance, quality, and reusability, aligning with FAIR data principles.
- Future development of the Instance Maps approach and tool is highlighted for further enhancing research efficiency and collaboration.
