Problems involved in searching multiple data bases are discussed including indexing differences, overlap among data bases, variant spellings, and elimination of duplicate items from search output. Discussion focuses on CA Condensates, Inspec, and Metadex data bases. (J PF)

Discussion of the online searching process identifies the formulation of a search strategy as the major problem area for users of online systems. Artificial intelligence is suggested as a solution to this problem, and several expert systems for information retrieval are described. An annotated list of 24 items for further reading is included. (23…

Describes the building block, successive fractions, citation pearl growing, and interactive scanning approaches to search strategy formulation and discusses practical techniques for online bibliographic searches such as being flexible, searching the most specific aspect first, using thesauri, conceptualizing, using full text operators, and…

Describes the use of machine-readable output from online searches in the compilation of large bibliographies, including the aspects of search mechanics, processing, and data duplication. Eight references are cited. (FM)

Last article in a series reviews online databases in fields of astronomy, earth sciences (geology, oceanography, other geosciences), and materials science (interdisciplinary subject encompassing ceramics, polymers, metals, glasses, etc.), noting coverage and search strategies. A table of 28 databases citing major subjects, producers, and starting…

This annual update of a bibliography that was published as a supplement to the first issue of "Online Review" contains 931 references covering the approximate time period of late 1982 through early 1984. Entries are arranged by author within each of 11 sections. Permuted title and author indexes are included. (EJS)

Provides permuted title and author indexes to the 931-item seventh annual update (July 1984 issue of "Online Review") of a bibliography on online information retrieval which was published as a supplement to the first issue of "Online Review." The approximate time period of late 1982 through early 1984 is covered. (EJS)

This 910-item annual update (1984 through early 1985) covers: online systems, databases, services; man-machine studies, database creation, user interface, system design and evaluation; profile development, searching techniques, indexing; usage studies, economics, promotion, online searching services management; user training, microcomputer…

Reports results of study of a group of end users (patent attorneys) doing their own online searching at AT&T Bell Laboratories. Highlights include DIALOG databases used by the attorneys, locations and searching modes, characteristics of patent attorney searchers, and problem areas. Questionnaire is appended. (5 references) (EJS)

This update covers the approximate time period from mid-1980 through late 1981, contains 640 references, and includes books, state of the art reviews, program descriptions, use studies, periodical articles, and the proceedings of four conferences on information retrieval. (Author/JL)