A study of semantic integration across archaeological data and reports in different languages

Abstract

This study investigates the semantic integration of data extracted from archaeological datasets with information extracted via natural language processing (NLP) across different languages. The investigation follows a broad theme relating to wooden objects and their dating via dendrochronological techniques, including types of wooden material, samples taken and wooden objects including shipwrecks. The outcomes are an integrated RDF dataset coupled with an associated interactive research demonstrator query builder application. The semantic framework combines the CIDOC Conceptual Reference Model (CRM) with the Getty Art and Architecture Thesaurus (AAT). The NLP, data cleansing and integration methods are described in detail together with illustrative scenarios from the web application Demonstrator. Reflections and recommendations from the study are discussed. The Demonstrator is a novel SPARQL web application, with CRM/AAT-based data integration. Functionality includes the combination of free text and semantic search with browsing on semantic links, hierarchical and associative relationship thesaurus query expansion. Queries concern wooden objects (e.g. samples of beech wood keels), optionally from a given date range, with automatic expansion over AAT hierarchies of wood types and specialised associative relationships. Following a ‘mapping pattern’ approach (via the STELETO tool) ensured validity and consistency of all RDF output. The user is shielded from the complexity of the underlying semantic framework by a query builder user interface. The study demonstrates the feasibility of connecting information extracted from datasets and grey literature reports in different languages and semantic cross-searching of the integrated information. The semantic linking of textual reports and datasets opens new possibilities for integrative research across diverse resources.