This description of the types of linguistic information obtainable from online databases generally used to acquire technical information includes examples of equivalent words, English usage, and statistical linguistic data. The implications of online databases as substitutes for dictionaries and as corpora for linguistic survey are considered.…

Discusses current optical data disk databases, their uses, and factors that will affect database copyrights. The factors discussed include hardware and software developments, multimedia applications, multiuser capabilities, and downloading capacities. (7 references) (CLB)

Introduces and defines the concept of online information databases and discusses how these information sources have been marketed in the past. Argues that their wealth is underused by managers and identifies databases that provide valuable management information. Identifies new trends in the industry that will help managers exploit this tool. (CH)

Examines efforts of the Research Libraries Group to use RLIN (Research Libraries Information Network) to support cooperative and individual member library preservation activities. Areas covered include enhancements to make item-specific microform information available and efforts to code information on the physical condition of materials. (30…

The first of three articles describes the results of a survey that examined characteristics and responsibilities of help-desk personnel at major database and online services. The second provides guidelines to using such customer services, and the third lists help-desk numbers for online databases and systems. (CLB)

Describes process by which a multiple-level collaborative database system was designed. Notes that by clearly elaborating the various design goals, it was possible to build a system through which ongoing program evaluation efforts could be easily managed without disrupting the service delivery process. (Author)

Briefly surveys the numerous applications of fuzzy set theory on data representation and information retrieval. The importance of fuzzy set theory with respect to information systems is illustrated with a bibliography of 86 papers that describe data systems that are somehow "fuzzy." (Author/EM)

Examines three familiar humanities databases that do not have named person indexes and identifies strategies to facilitate both quick, precise searching and high recall for searches where the subject is a personal name. Descriptions of the databases, suggested search strategies, and sample searches are provided. (CDD)

Because of information law's inability to keep up with rapid changes in information technology and impreciseness of the law, copyrighting of databases poses unique problems. Interpretation of fair use doctrine, privately owned computer "downloading," impact of federal electronic filing, and questions concerning information businesses…

Compares the terminology used in three different computerized search services--CIJE, LLBA/Online, and PsycINFO--and shows how the choice of terminology used by them impedes retrieval. Suggests compensatory measures. (FL)

Provides examples of computer-based classroom activities which support the skills, content, and democratic values goals of social studies. It also outlines an approach to teaching inquiry, information handling, and group interaction skills; explains the role of databases in supporting content objectives; and gives examples of values issues that…

Discusses the long-term value of bibliographic records to the library and the cost and service implications of that value. Topics covered include records in the public domain; sources of machine-readable bibliographic records (bibliographic utilities, state and multistate networks, commercial vendors, federal agencies, libraries); rights and…

This third article in a five-part series focuses on personal computer software (instructional packages for the computer itself). Topics covered include 11 categories of microcomputer software, evaluation and selection, purchase, version numbers and upgrades, copy protection, disk operating system commands, preparation of master disk, batch files,…

This introduction to the nonbibliographic databases offered by the Dow Jones News/Retrieval Service describes file content and search strategies in four groups: Dow Jones Business and Economic News; Dow Jones Quotes (market prices for stocks and other securities); Financial and Investment Services; General News and Information Services. Examples…

Discusses data acquisition systems for biologists, considering: (1) input; (2) output; (3) controllers; (4) software for data acquisition; and (5) programing languages. Also discusses several biochemical databases, including those storing data on protein sequences and on chemical structures in two-dimensional form (together with biological testing…