Purpose: This paper aims to present the semantic content identifier (SCI), a permanent identifier, computed through a linear-time onion-peeling algorithm that enables the extraction of semantic features from a text, and the integration of this information within the permanent identifier. Design/methodology/approach: The authors employ SCI to…

It is shown that automatic search profiles can be derived which perform comparably with corresponding manual profiles. The most efficient automatic profiles, in terms of performance and search time, are those consisting predominantly of single terms enriched with fragments. (Author/PF)

Describes a system for identifying and retrieving relevant citations on a monthly basis which can be accomplished with any microcomputer and printer possessing capability of telecommunication and downloading. Procedures for comprehensive search, downloading, formatting of information for printing, printing file cards and abstracts, and…

Processes involved in computer searching of information systems are explained, with some caveats for the use of online searching by students and faculty. Among the concerns are overestimates of the efficacy of searching, inconsistency in search services and strategies, and other potential problems of search results' relevance. (MSE)

This report describes the development of a design and a small working model for a system for teaching and assisting in the performance of bibliographic on-line searches through the use of an intermediary computer. The system in its present form is intended for direct users of scientific and technical information systems. However, it is felt that…

The main method of locating information on the World Wide Web is to use a search engine. Given a set of terms, a search engine will return a list of documents containing those terms. Often, though, this list of documents is extremely large. Unfortunately, there are currently no tools to assist the information seeker in determining whether these…

Two statistical models for estimating search time have been developed for the CA Condensates data base using the University of Georgia Text Search System. Comparative timings between the Chemical Abstracts Service search program and the University of Georgia search program are made for the Ca Condensates data base. (5 references) (Author/NH)

A series of five runs comprised of 20 searches each were carried out in a three-year span of the INSPEC data base. The same queries were processed manually in the corresponding volumes of Science Abstracts, and comparison of the output of each search method exposed reasons for the failures. Emphasis is laid on the fact that a query comprises other…

A symposium with four major presentations centering on the topic of computer-based information retrieval. Also highlighted are several features of the Wisconsin Information System for Education (WISE-ONE) and the Educational Resources Information Center (ERIC) system. The first paper in the series discusses the development, current capabilities…

Methods for retrieval of information on chemical compounds utilizing several computer data bases are compared to determine scope of data base coverage. Preparation of search questions is outlined and comparative results are reported indicating the yield from each data base. (6 references) (Author/NH)

This technical report describes a proposed subject retrieval function for the OCLC Online Union Catalog and examines the inadequacies of Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH) for the provision of subject access. The function described uses a non-Boolean search approach over data elements present in the MARC record format. Centered around the…

The set reduction algorithm is based on set theory and Boolean algebra rather than the graph-theoretic approach. Time trials with a small file of organic chemical structures indicate that the algorithm can be economically used for substructure (or complete structure) sequential searches on a file containing 30,000-50,000 computer-coded structures.…

Three papers on system requirements for on-line and batch retrieval presented at the American Society for Information Science (ASIS) annual meeting are included here. At G.D. Searle, data for records related to pharmacology screening are used in a batch system, and an on-line system is used to search information on mutagenic, carcinogenic, and…

Examines traditional and interactive models that have emerged in information retrieval (IR), and proposes an interactive IR model based on different levels in the interactive processes. Analyzes strengths and weaknesses of the traditional model. Concludes with general remarks on the state of IR interaction research. (Author/AEF)

This manual explains how to use the FAMULUS program package in a computing environment where most text is input through terminals and most files are stored on disks. Developed in the late 1960s by the Pacific Southwest Forest and Range Experiment Station of the United States Forest Service, FAMULUS was conceived as a personal documentation system…