We present an architecture and software framework for semantic allies: Semantic systems that complement existing software applications with semantic services and interactions based on a background ontology. On the one hand, our Semantic Alliance framework follows an invasive approach: Users can profit from semantic technology without having to leave their accustomed workflows and tools. On the ...

Many bacterial species function as both commensals and pathogens; we used this dual nature to develop a high-throughput molecular epidemiological approach to identifying bacterial virulence genes. We applied our approach to Group B Streptococcus (GBS). Three representative commensal and one invasive GBS isolates were selected as tester strains from a population-based collection. We used microar...

Background and Objectives Open conversion (OC) occurs in 5 to 10% of laparoscopic cholecystectomies (LCs) and results in suboptimal outcomes. Herein, we report our experience with OC in cholecystectomy performed with the minimally invasive (MIS) approach. Methods Data from 960 minimally invasive cholecystectomies performed in the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) Division of General, Mi...

A best evidence topic in thoracic surgery was written according to a structured protocol. The question addressed was whether an open surgical approach is superior to minimally invasive surgery in patients with postpneumonectomy empyema (PPE). Overall 171 papers were found using the reported search, of which 12 represented the best evidence to answer the clinical question. The authors, journal, ...

INTRODUCTION It is not unusual for bladder tumors to appear following transitional cell carcinoma of the upper urinary tract (UUT), with involvement of the UUT, following invasive bladder cancer, being less common. The synchronous presence of transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder and of the UTT is exceptional. METHODS Fifteen simultaneous cystectomies with nephroureterectomies were perfo...

BACKGROUND In recent years, a step-up approach based on minimally invasive techniques was recommended by latest guidelines as initial invasive treatment for infected pancreatic necrosis (IPN). In this study, we aimed to describe a novel step-up approach for treating IPN consisting of four steps including negative pressure irrigation (NPI) and endoscopic necrosectomy (ED) as a bridge between per...

ABSTRACT The operative treatment of displaced intraarticular calcaneal fractures has been a controversial topic. Soft tissue conditions and concomitant disease must be considered in these patients. The minimally invasive sinus tarsi approach is a valid therapeutic solution that guarantees stability, anatomic reduction of the fracture and soft tissue preservation. Twenty-five closed calcaneal fr...

Teleworking is one of the new methods applied in most developed countries to increase organizational flexibility, reduce costs and improve performance. However, the implementation of teleworking is not so successful in Iran. Therfore, the objective of the present study is to identify the factors causing failure in implementation of teleworking. The study is carried out in the governmental a...