Java interface to human anatomy knowledge

Abstract

The paper presents a novel Internet based application that provides access to anatomy knowledge through symbolic modality expressed by keywords taken from controlled or non-controlled terminology. The system is based on a database where anatomical concepts have been organized into a hierarchical framework. Along with term queries that allow retrieving concepts containing or exactly matching the used keyword, the system provides semantic access to anatomical information. Queries can be setup for retrieving concepts relying on a particular meaning and sharing particular relationships. Moreover, the application has the capability to refine the term search by automatically querying the UMLS Knowledge Server. Integration between symbolic and visual knowledge has been carried out by providing access to indexed image content. The system has been implemented through Java client-server technology and works within standard Internet browsers.