PaperChase: a user-friendly program for searching the biomedical literature.
PaperChase is a computer program which provides an efficient interface to the National Library of Medicine's MEDLINE database of references to the biomedical literature. The database includes references (citations) and abstracts compiled from Index Medicus, the International Nursing Index and the Index to Dental Literature. PaperChase may be accessed using any computer terminal or personal computer with modem. No special knowledge of computers or biomedical terms is necessary. Simple menus enable the novice to search the biomedical literature without training. A command language speeds searching for the experienced user. PaperChase does not require the user to know the database's indexing terminology, called Medical Subject Headings. Everyday language may be used and PaperChase will translate, or "map", the user's search term into the required Medical Subject Heading. PaperChase monitors a search in progress and suggests additional Medical Subject Headings which can be used to broaden or narrow a search. The searcher can order a full-text photocopy of any reference found in PaperChase. Support documentation and a subscriber newsletter are provided at no charge. Trained search specialists are available to offer assistance and to answer questions.
Center for Clinical Computing, Boston, MA 02115.
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D008523:MEDLARS; D012984:Software; D014481:United States