Converts MEDLINE searches between Ovid and PubMed syntax
MEDLINE Transpose is a free tool designed to facilitate the translation of search strategies between Ovid MEDLINE and PubMed formats. Users paste a search strategy formatted for one interface (Ovid MEDLINE or PubMed) into the tool. The tool begins by scanning the user's search strategy for boolean operators (e.g., AND, OR, NOT). It assumes that any text not identified as a boolean operator constitutes a search term. After identifying the boolean operators, MEDLINE Transpose compiles a list of all search terms present in the strategy. Each term in the list is examined using simple pattern-matching techniques to determine its type. Once the type of each term is identified, the tool processes it according to whether the user specified a conversion from Ovid to PubMed or vice versa. For terms that require additional processing, such as checking for subheadings associated with MeSH terms, the tool ensures that any necessary modifications are made before completing the conversion. After translating each term, the tool reinstates the boolean operators between items and displays the newly formatted search strategy on its interface.
