Discusses deductive databases and database management systems (DBMS) and introduces a framework for advanced query formulation for end users. Recursive processing is described, a sample extensional database is presented, query types are explained, and criteria for advanced query formulation from the end user's viewpoint are examined. (31…

Investigates the role of information retrieval in the enhancement from database management to knowledge base management and considers the relationship between information retrieval and artificial intelligence. Highlights include unstructured databases; storage of internal forms of documents; an example with relational database operations; and…

Describes fast, dynamic update algorithms for document retrieval systems. B-trees are discussed; the M-B-T file directory structure is explained; insertions and deletions in inverted files are described; and performance evaluation is discussed. An appendix provides the formal definition of an M-B-T directory. (Contains 18 references.) (LRW)

Compares the performance of inverted and signature file organizations in handling incrementally specified Boolean queries to an information retrieval system. The discussion covers the impact of more sophisticated signature file organizations, related problems, and possible future work. (65 references) (CLB)

Describes a conceptual model for integrating short scientific texts, which extends classical text storage and retrieval. A brief comparison with related approaches such as case-based reasoning and classification-based reasoning is also provided. (13 references) (Author/KRN)

Describes an interface mechanism called "complex view support" to be used with a relational database system (RDBS) in supporting increasingly complex distributed environments in automated library systems. The interface system refers queries to multidimensional tables as well as to flat tables on RDBS and is shown to efficiently support…

Describes a prototype natural language text knowledge system (TKS) that was used to organize 50 pages of a handbook on artificial intelligence as an inferential knowledge base with natural language query and command capabilities. Representation of text, database navigation, query systems, discourse structuring, and future research needs are…

Discussion of the need for distributed information retrieval systems focuses on a model system, Fulcrum FUL/Text. Differences from distributed database management systems are described; system design is discussed; implementation requirements are explained including remote operation calls (ROC's); and a prototype simulation model based on FUL/Text…

Discussion of a new method of index term dictionary compression in an inverted-file-oriented database highlights a technique of word coding, which generates short fixed-length codes obtained from the index terms themselves by analysis of monogram and bigram statistical distributions. Substantial savings in communication channel utilization are…

This description of the design of an online library acquisition system highlights the use of database management systems in developing information retrieval systems, and software requirements for the hierarchical menu-driven operation. A conceptual view of the database is included. (LRW)

Describes the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Lexical Dictionary (NLD), a machine-aided indexing system used online at the NASA Center for AeroSpace Information (CASI). The functions of NLD system components are described in detail, and production and quality benefits resulting from machine-aided indexing at CASI are…

Discusses the motivation for integrating information retrieval and database management systems, and proposes a probabilistic retrieval model in which records in a file may be composed of attributes (formatted data items) and descriptors (content indicators). The details and resolutions of difficulties involved in integrating such systems are…

Examines novel computer filing systems which have particular application to office information storage and retrieval requirements. A variety of filing systems and their major characteristics are reviewed, ranging from network-based file servers to digital image storage and retrieval systems. Desirable characteristics of a modern electronic office…

Presents a relational logical model to support a sophisticated document retrieval system in which flexible forms of inferential and associative searching can be performed, and provides examples of ad hoc inquiries. Several problems of particular importance to document retrieval are discussed in terms of this model. (27 references) (Author/CLB)

Describes the design of a database interface for infrequent users of computers which consists of a graphical display of a model of a database and a natural language query language. This interface was designed for and tested with physicians at the University of Texas Health Science Center in Dallas. (LRW)