M. L. Richards

Interactive text retrieval based on document similarities

In this article we present a prototypical implementation of a software tool for document retrieval which groups/arranges (pre-processed) documents based on a similarity measure. The prototype was developed based on self-organising maps to realise interactive associative search and visual exploration of document databases. This helps a user to navigate through similar documents. The navigation, especially the search for the first appropriate document, is supported by conventional keyword search methods. The usability of the presented approach is shown by a sample search.

Clustering of Document Collections to Support Interactive Text Exploration

In this contribution an approach for document retrieval is presented which groups (pre-processed) documents using a similarity measure. The methods weredeveloped based on self-organising maps to realise interactive associative search and visual exploration of document databases. This helps a user to navigate through similar documents. The navigation, especially the search for the first appropriate document, is supported by conventional keyword search methods.

DUST: An interactive data visualization tool for selected atmospheric data

Abstract This paper describes the DUST-2 (Data Utilization software Tools) software, which is a possibility in visualizing and processing ozone and water vapor data of the Earth atmosphere as measured by satellite instruments (TOMS, GOME, MAS) and provided by different data centers. In addition, a new search tool (S 4 tool) which allows to search for comparable ozone and water vapor data in four dimensions (location and time) within the DUST-2 data base and a hdf2csv conversion tool are represented. The software package as well as complementary information and data examples are published on CD-ROM (“Data Utilization Software Tools — 2”, DUST-2, Hartmann et al. 2000) under ISBN 3-9804862-3-0 which is available via www.copernicus.org.

DUST-2: Towards a more efficient (interactive) documentation and validation of scientific information demonstrated with ozone, water vapour and other selected data of the Earth's atmosphere

Abstract The exponential growth of geophysical information must lead inevitably to a better access to geophysical information for science and education, especially if the resources shrink and the cost-efficiency ratio needs to be improved predominantly for the (non commercial and insufficient rich) users, who suffer from the fast rising information retrieval costs, now charged by nearly all major information systems. (This is, however, different in the U.S.A. because of the “freedom of information act”). That a better access means essentially more than just faster and more information is demonstrated with the DUST-2 CD-ROM (Data Utilization Software Tools). As a result of an international MPAe pilot project (FKZ.: 50 EE 98038) this CD-ROM has been published in September 2000 under ISBN 3-9804862-3-0. It was conceived predominantly for scientific technical purposes and can be regarded as a continuation of the work which was started in 1985 at MPAe to edit a Landolt-Bornstein data handbook “The Upper Atmosphere”. The DUST-2 concept is an example for an interactive, flexible interface and qualifying filter, although only a first step-matching several different non uniformly formatted data sources. The DUST-2 CD provides graphical methods of qualified information retrieval. It allows a synergetic combination of selected information of the Earths atmosphere, texts and relevant numerical data for the topics ozone and water vapour. The software tools can be applied in principle to any data base. In the first chapter of this introductory paper 9 other papers are briefly described that show the scientific-technical background of the new and upgraded classical information processing DUST-2 “tools”. They still need to be stronger interrelated. The “joint retrieval method” allows an optimal, value added, data validation. This is demonstrated with a combination of temperature data from the Millimeterwave Atmospheric Sounder (MAS) with corresponding ones from a GRAS sensor (GRAS: Combined GPS-GLONASS receiver). The impressively good results strongly support the concept of a relevant technologically feasible MAS Followon/GRAS experiment on the International Space Station (ISS). See paper 4. The (dynamic) DUST-2 concept will contribute — from a qualitative and temporal aspect — to a reduction of the insufficient supply of (general, actual) understandable geophysical information. It has been successfully demonstrated with 8 posters at the 25th General Assembly of the European Geophysical Society (EGS). The DUST-2 CD-ROM can be ordered via Copernicus Gesellschaft e.V., Max-Planck Str. 13, D-37191 Katlenburg-Lindau, Germany; shipping & handling 12 EUR or via URL: www.copernicus.org. The ADLATUS concept — still in the planning and fundraising phase — supplements the DUST-2 concept and puts special emphasis on educational aspects. It will also provide links to the Geographic Information System (GIS). In context with this enlarged ADLATUS concept an essential continuation of the earlier discontinued Landolt-Bornstein “ Upper Atmosphere” activities is possible and should lead to an “ADLATUS Atmosphere”.

TOSCANA applied to thesaurus research

Abstract There is an immense number of publications and measurement data in atmospheric ozone and water vapor research. Even for the expert it is impossible to keep all current results of research in view. Hence there is a need for an information sytem which enables the user to find documents and corresponding measurement data accurately. The purpose of this research is to construct a prototype retrieval system using methods of conceptual knowledge processing and the sofware TOSCANA. For this purpose a vocabulary for atmosphere research was built from the DFD ozone thesaurus. Furthermore, conceptual hierarchies and topics were developed by experts.

MAS-GRAS sensor combination and optimal estimation retrieval of temperature and H2O profiles

Abstract The results of a realistic simulation study in investigating the joint retrieval using measured temperature and water vapour data from the Space Shuttle based Millimeter wave Atmospheric Sounder (MAS) and from a GRAS (GPS/ GLONASS receiver) sensor are presented. It seems highly worthwhile — because of the very impressive results — to place a MAS Follow-on sensor together with a GRAS sensor on the EXPRESS Pallet of the International Space Station (ISS). It is a role model of synergetic use of sensors in the best sense. An international feasibility study shows that this is technically feasible.