Examines role and contributions of natural-language processing in information retrieval and artificial intelligence research in context of large operational information retrieval systems and services. State-of-the-art information retrieval systems combining the functional capabilities of conventional inverted file term adjacency approach with…

This is an introduction to a set of four papers in the field of evaluation research. A main theme in these papers is the recognition that evaluation research is not a pure objective scientific self-standing activity, but one that interacts within a context and is influenced by the interchanges. (LMO)

Describes programs used by European countries and companies for advancing the commercialization of biotechnology. Compares European strategies and efforts in biotechnology with those undertaken in the United States. Includes listings of the European countries and the areas of biotechnology research. (ML)

Argues that a United States built and operated Superconducting Supercollider (SSC) could strain the infrastructure of scientific research. Identifies the areas which would be adversely affected by the funding of the SSC. Advocates construction of the collider as an international enterprise. (ML)

Description of information services from the National Library of Medicine (NLM) highlights a new system for retrieving information from NLM's databases (GRATEFUL MED); a formal Regional Medical Library Network; DOCLINE; the Unified Medical Language System; and Integrated Academic Information Management Systems. Research and development and the…

Offers practical approach to locating and understanding sources of current information in industrial relations from four groups: non-profit, policy research associations; professional and trade associations; advocacy and lobby organizations; and private, profit-making agencies. A method for enriching library collection development and a new…

Many states are establishing research centers keyed to universities strong in science and engineering as the Unites States' drive to become more technologically competitive shifts to the states. Initiatives in Ohio are provided as an example of this trend. (JN)

Describes several National Science Foundation programs which encourage interaction between industries and universities. They include engineering research centers, Presidential Young Investigator Awards, and programs in the Industrial Science and Technology Innovation Division. Indicates that industry's pressing need for solutions often adds…

The Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and the University of Tennessee have established a measurement and controls research center and a master's-level academic engineering program. A description of this university/industry cooperative research center is provided. Indicates that a doctoral program is planned when the master's program is well…

Discusses whether biotechnology commercial application will significantly inhibit the free flow of information traditional in academic environments. Background factors, crux of the concern, assessment, and current options are given. Although little evidence that industry-university collaboration has impaired academic molecular genetics exists,…

Describes less-publicized situations in the biological sciences concerning problems of openness and communication among scientists. Topics addressed include information networks and rules, international communications, balance of power within institutions and fields, openness to whom and on what terms, and scientists as experts. (DH)

Reviews current research in the teaching of English in Australia and concludes that there is a large volume of highly relevant research and that a way must be found to disseminate it to potential clientele. (DF)

Organized research units, a nondepartmental structure for industry-sponsored university research administration, are attractive vehicles. They support high-risk ventures, encourage faculty recruitment and retention, consolidate resources, provide a forum for interdisciplinary or multidisciplinary exchange, offer graduate study opportunities,…

Cites the need for scholarly activity in instructional technology and argues that it should be shifted from education, with its focus on teacher preparation, to technology, where there would be more freedom to explore the consequences of techniques, methods, instruments, and processes inherent in the field. Thirty-two references are cited. (MBR)

Although fundamentally different purposes may cause clashes when universities and industry embark on joint research and development ventures, careful planning can often bridge this gap. Areas addressed include university/industry cooperation, information exchange, intellectual property, and conflicts with colleagues/students. (DH)