Abstract: A method for processing a search query uses the results of a search performed on a high quality, controlled database to assess the relevance of documents retrieved from a search of an uncontrolled public database having documents of highly variable quality. The method includes the steps of parsing the search query and then searching the authoritative database to generate authoritative database results. The search query is also used to search the public database, thereby generating public database results. The quality or relevance of the public database results are then quantified on the basis of the authoritative database results, thereby generating a quality index. The results from both the authoritative and the public databases are then ranked on the basis of this quality index.

Abstract: A method for processing a search query uses the results of a search performed on a high quality, controlled database to assess the relevance of documents retrieved from a search of an uncontrolled public database having documents of highly variable quality. The method includes the steps of parsing the search query and then searching the authoritative database to generate authoritative database results. The search query is also used to search the public database, thereby generating public database results. The quality or relevance of the public database results are then quantified on the basis of the authoritative database results, thereby generating a quality index. The results from both the authoritative and the public databases are then ranked on the basis of this quality index.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for linguistic expression processing provides features for spelling verification, correction, and dictionary database storage. The system utilizes a linguistically salient word skeleton-forming process to correct both typrographic and cognitive spelling errors. The system also uses a suspect expression modification sequence to recognize and correct typographical spelling errors. A linguistic expression database includes a master lexicon having expression blocks arranged in accord with respective collation ranges of skeletons of expressions contained therein. In one preferred embodiment, these linguistically salient word skeletons corresponding to the master lexicon expressions are not retained in the database.