Two basic data processing concepts are described: data elements (consisting of bits, bytes, fields, records, and files) and binary characters (standards, hex value, and extended character sets--Greek letters, superscripts, and subscripts). Use of machine-readable data in the OCLC-MARC database is noted. (EJS)

The author believes it would be appropriate to review the current National Technical Information Service (NTIS) pricing policy in terms of its rationale, legality, and the possibility of mitigating or reversing the demonstrated pattern of repeated cost increases. (Author/SJ)

The need for the interconversion of chemical substructure systems is discussed and CHEMTRAN, a new service, designed especially for creating interconversion programs, is introduced. (7 references) (Author)

The purpose of this communication is to suggest that in the situation where documents are retrieved independently the desired parameters may be estimated more accurately by sampling and averaging techniques over homogeneous subparts of the data base. (4 references) (Author)

A technique for structuring and searching a large file of chemical structures is presented. The technique involves generating a nested, structured tree based on the Wiswesser analysis of chemical structures. An important virtue of the tree is the rapid and inexpensive file updating. (9 references) (Author/NH)

The criticisms levelled at MARC are examined and attempts are made to evaluate these criticisms in the light of some possible ways of using MARC at the local level. (11 references) (Author)

Briefly defines the concept of copyright, discusses the role of the National Commission on New Technological Uses of Copyrighted Works (CONTU) in studying the problems associated with copyrights and computer software, reviews the work undertaken by CONTU, and summarizes the changes in the Copyright Act of 1976 recommended by CONTU. (JL)

Summarizes the characteristics of TOXIN, CHEMFILE, and the Product Profile Information System (PPIS), nonbibliographic databases used by Shell Oil Company's Health, Safety, and Environment Organization. (FM)

Provides a chart showing differences (as of November 1979) in basic indexes for a number of databases that are available on two or more systems, such as DIALOG, ORBIT, and BRS. For each database, fields that are searched when a single unqualified search term is entered are listed. (Author/JD)

Explains the capabilities of Bibliographic Retrieval Services' CROSS database index, a "postings only" file which serves as a presearch aid to training and database selection, and as a tool for ready reference and interlibrary loan verification. Limitations of the aid are noted, and a specification table summarizes operating information.…

Authority control of a cataloging database is essential to support an effective machine readable catalog. Automated authority control can provide assistance with the difficult, intellectually demanding part of cataloging: integrating new items into a collection. (Author)

Provides a decision table that uses the difference in online and offline printing charges for a specified format, and the online connect charges in a database, to determine which mode of printing will cost the least. Methods for eliminating duplicate citations in printouts from searches of multiple databases are also described. (CLB)

Briefly describes the ERIC system, focusing on the Clearinghouse on Reading and Communication Skills. Describes the scope of the clearinghouse, the kinds of publications available, and the role of the user in the functioning of the clearinghouse. (RS)

The author surveyed 391 subscribers of an agricultural computing newsletter regarding their use of computers to access agricultural information databases. He determined the need for training to enhance the use of these databases. (JOW)

This study reviewed merged records of children (N=40,211, 3,262 disabled) in Omaha, Nebraska, during 1994-95. An electronic merger of school records with child abuse, foster care, and police records was followed by a review of maltreatment incidents. Findings indicated a 9 percent prevalence rate of maltreatment for nondisabled children and a 31…