The Bio-Objects project. Part I: The Object Data model core elements

Abstract

Motivation: Scientific data reside in a number of different data sources, both public and commercial, and are accessible through various software applications. Data and software interoperability is becoming a critical issue in the research community. In our opinion, the need to develop a unified object model for biotechnology must be recognized. Herein, we present a prototype and core elements for the Object Data Model, a central part of our future commercial product development. Results: We have designed a first layer of the Object Data Model that will be used for further commercial application development. The CBioBase object was designed as a citable, stable and core data element for the Object Data Model. General relationships between objects and application components were established. Availability: Software tools will be provided with a future DNASIS product to access various elements of the Object Model. We are planning to assemble C++ libraries and Java binary files into BioObjects SDK (software development kit) for those interested in software implementation using the described object model. Contact: smaltch@@@msn.com or smaltch@@@hitachi-soft.com.