Preparing a scientific manuscript in Linux: Today's possibilities and limitations.
BACKGROUND
Increasing number of scientists are enthusiastic about using free, open source software for their research purposes. Authors' specific goal was to examine whether a Linux-based operating system with open source software packages would allow to prepare a submission-ready scientific manuscript without the need to use the proprietary software.


RESULTS
Preparation and editing of scientific manuscripts is possible using Linux and open source software. This letter to the editor describes key steps for preparation of a publication-ready scientific manuscript in a Linux-based operating system, as well as discusses the necessary software components. This manuscript was created using Linux and open source programs for Linux.
Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA. vtchantc@umn.edu.
Vakhtang
V
Tchantchaleishvili
Jan D
JD
Schmitto