Describes a genetic algorithm (GA) that assigns weights to query terms in a ranked-output document retrieval system. Experiments showed the GA often found weights slightly superior to those produced by deterministic weighting (F4). Many times, however, the two methods gave the same results and sometimes the F4 results were superior, indicating…

The error-correcting algorithm described was constructed to examine subject headings in online catalog records for common errors such as omission, addition, substitution, and transposition errors, and to make needed changes. Essentially, the algorithm searches the authority file for a record whose primary key exactly matches the test key. If an…

Addresses the problem of systematic biases which affect the way that individuals construct and modify search queries on online retrieval systems, and suggests a searching algorithm that helps to avoid the effect of those biases. (FM)

Describes a computerized information retrieval system that uses three agglomerative hierarchic clustering algorithms--single link, complete link, and group average link--and explains their implementations. It is noted that these implementations have been used to cluster a collection of 12,000 documents. (LRW)

Explains, with supporting figures and flowcharts of programing logic, two search strategies introduced to the MORPHS System since 1976: one that employs the normal Boolean operators in strings without bracketing or in the form of marked steps, and one that treats a string of keywords as a compound word. (Author/JD)

Describes an approach that combines concepts from information retrieval, fuzzy set theory, and genetic programing to improve weighted Boolean query formulation via relevance feedback. Highlights include background on information retrieval systems; genetic algorithms; subproblem formulation; and preliminary results based on a testbed. (Contains 12…

Using macro and micro-structure analysis of large files of personal author names, this study developed retrieval techniques and algorithms to automatically correct and/or flag typographical errors in names, identify names in a database that are similar to a name entered by a user during a search, and measure similarities between names. It was…

Presents a modification function for weights of descriptors for documents in fuzzy retrieval systems which includes some desirable properties that are lacking in the model proposed by Choros and Danilowicz in their study on relative indexing. (MBR)

A straightforward procedure for performing weighted-term searches can be programmed quickly and easily, and the same general algorithm can be used for either on-line or batch mode searching. The method can be used to do whole text searches as well as conventional searches for index terms or other descriptors. (5 references) (Author/NH)

Surveys the current state of minicomputer-operated information systems capable of incorporating linguistic features, focusing on the Minicomputer Operated Retrieval (Partially Heuristic) System. Consideration is given to the automation of the indexing process and to available search strategies. (FM)

Two papers are included as Part Four of this report on Salton's Magical Automatic Retriever of Texts (SMART) project report. The first paper: "A Controlled Single Pass Classification Algorithm with Application to Multilevel Clustering" by D. B. Johnson and J. M. Laferente presents a single pass clustering method which compares favorably…

Presents principles for determining profile of a system user based on analysis of co-occurrence of index terms in queries and pertinent documents. A procedure for determining index term weights, the information value of which depends on the degree of homogeneity of system users, is introduced. Three references are cited. (EJS)

The National Library of Medicine has discarded connect hour-only billing for a more equitable system, which distributes user costs by type and intensity of work performed and data delivered. User data (cost comparisons, interpolated input/output count per connect hours, connect hours per year) were analyzed and further improvements are planned.…

Proposes algorithmic method of searching and presents experimental data testing efficacy of using Boolean negation to eliminate redundancy and reduce cognitive strain of communication barrier at human-computer interface. Cognitive information processes, concept of Boolean NOT, and problem-solving behavior are explored. Twenty-five references are…

Presents an algorithm for use in online information retrieval which will generate a list of bibliographic citations derived from a preselected relevant document and which measures the relatedness of retrieved items to the preselected document. A test of the algorithm in retrieving medical literature is described. Two figures are included. (JL)