Discusses several areas to be considered in planning for library automation: (1) cataloging standards; (2) MARC (Machine-Readable Cataloging) format; (3) database design; (4) retrospective conversion; (5) REMARC, a retrospective conversion service; (6) MiniMARC, a stand-alone cataloging support system; (7) copy-specific file conversion; and (8)…

Twenty multiple-choice questions test basic knowledge of the Chemical Abstracts Service online database. (6 references) (MES)

Twenty multiple-choice questions test for basic knowledge of the AGRICOLA database on the regular, non end-user systems. (5 references) (MES)

Describes features and enhancements of the EasyNet end-user gateway software including the addition of more databanks, improved help for searchers, field searching, online help from humans, and scanning for database selection. Capabilities of the Common Command Language are discussed. Figures show a database scan, EasyNet commands, and a sample…

Summarizes remarks of the presidents of DIALOG, Mead Data Central, and BRS on the expansion of several European databanks into the American market. Comments focus on the competitiveness of the marketplace, the provision of international information by American systems, the expectations and prospects of the European companies, and American plans.…

Presents a database system development model in which theoretical support in the form of automated theorem proving is brought to bear on the problem of enforcing integrity, i.e., ensuring that the database system represents only those states and transitions that are possible in the world it models. (MBR)

HIT methodology for conceptual data structure design is briefly described and exemplified. Main features of the methodology are the natural formalism of the description of conceptual schema, and an easy-to-understand graphical way of communication between both the designer and individual experts substituting future users. (Author/MBR)

Describes how keyboard macro processors can be used in the context of online searching to store alternative search statements before going online. An example using ProKey software is included, and its advantages and limitations are described and compared with the more sophisticated front end systems available. (EM)

Presents an annotated list of 17 references dealing with various topics related to telecommunications and online systems. (JN)

Presents third installment of directory published in four parts in June and August issues of "Database" and July and September "Online." Description, company, compatibility, type of laserdisk, search and retrieval software, interface with magnetic media, conditions of usage, price, and status information are given for 11 products. Company names…

Reviews the latest version of the SuperCalc spreadsheet, indicating that it now provides color graphics, two-key sorting, and database management functions (including Internal Rate of Return). Also indicates that the program is not copy protected, useful in trying to integrate a variety of programs. (JN)

Examines philosophical and epistemological views which indicate that scientific objectivity is simply a shared subjectivity (focusing on categories of the real, imaginary, and symbolic). Also discusses KREATEK, an interdisciplinary database for creative sciences located at the University of Oslo. (JN)

Reports on investments in the United States (including database activities) by four Dutch publishing companies--Elsevier-NDU, VNU, Kluwer, Wolters Samsom Group. An analysis of the reasons behind these investments, the solidness of the companies, the approach to the U.S. information market, and the knowledge transfer to Europe are highlighted. (EJS)

Reviews recent publications in online database literature including three newsletters ("Database Update,""Database Alert," and "Information Hotline"), a directory ("Guide to Online Databases"), and a textbook ("Online Reference and Information Retrieval" by Roger C. Palmer). The new "Guide to Searching ONTAP ABI/INFORM" is noted. (EJS)

Discusses the use of microcomputers for online searching, handling telephone requests, storing data, and electronic mail. (JOW)