<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description

<num> Number: 003

<dom> Domain: International Economics

<title> Topic: Joint Ventures


<desc> Description:

Document will announce a new joint venture involving a Japanese
company.


<narr> Narrative:

A relevant document will announce a new joint venture and will
identify the partners (one of which must be Japanese) by name, as well
as the name and activity of the new company.


<con> Concept(s):

1.  joint venture, tie up

2.  partner, cooperation, joint management, agreement

3.  cooperate, work together, jointly manage, jointly own, jointly
produce


<fac> Factor(s):

<nat> Nationality: Japan

<time> Time: Current

</fac>


<def> Definition(s):

Joint Venture - An international business undertaking defined as the
commitment, for more than a very short duration, of funds, facilities,
and services by two or more legally separate interests to an
enterprise for their mutual benefit.

</top>


<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description

<num> Number: 005

<dom> Domain: International Economics

<title> Topic: Dumping Charges


<desc> Description:

The U.S. or the EC charges Japan with dumping a product on any market
and/or takes action against Japan for proven or suspected dumping.


<narr> Narrative:

To be relevant, a document must discuss current charges made by the
U.S. or the EC against Japan for dumping a product on the U.S., EC, or
any third-country market, and/or action(s) taken by the U.S. or the EC
against Japan for proven or suspected dumping.  The product must be
identified.


<con> Concept(s):

1.  dumping

2.  duties, tariffs, anti-dumping measures, punitive trade sanctions,
protective penalties

3.  below market, unfair, predatory pricing

4.  Commerce Department, International Trade Commission (ITC),
European Community (EC), Common Market

5.  ruling, charges, investigation


<fac> Factor(s):

<nat> Nationality: U.S.

<nat> Nationality: EC

<nat> Nationality: Japan

<time> Time: Current

</fac>


<def> Definition(s):

Dumping - A term used in international trade, meaning to sell a
product in export markets below the selling price for the same product
in domestic markets.  Rules created by countries to protect themselves
from this practice are called anti-dumping laws.  Additional tariffs
that may be imposed on imports that have been dumped are called
dumping duties.

</top>


<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description

<num> Number: 014

<dom> Domain: Science and Technology

<title> Topic: Drug Approval


<desc> Description:

Document cites current final national approval granted to a company to
market a drug for the treatment of a specific ailment.


<narr> Narrative:

To be relevant, a document will cite the current final national
approval granted to a company to market a drug to treat a specific
ailment.  The generic name of the drug or the name the drug will be
marketed under (the brand name), the ailment, and the name of the
company which received approval, must be identified.


<con> Concept(s):

1.  drug

2.  approve, approval

3.  market clearance

4.  NOT preliminary approval


<fac> Factor(s):

<time> Time: Current

</fac>


<def> Definition(s):

</top>


<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description

<num> Number: 017

<dom> Domain: Science and Technology

<title> Topic: Measures to Control Agrochemicals


<desc> Description:

Document will announce measures to ban, regulate, or curb use of
agricultural chemicals in the U.S. or use of chemicals abroad on
produce for the U.S. market.


<narr> Narrative:

To be relevant, a document will report measures taken to test and ban
chemicals, or to test and ban from the U.S. market, produce treated
with chemicals.  Documents will cover both reporting on regulation of
chemicals in the U.S. and lack of regulation of chemicals in third
world countries which results in attempts to ban from the U.S. market,
foodstuffs contaminated with chemicals from the U.S. market.


<con> Concept(s):

1.  pesticide, herbicide, fungiacide, insecticide, fertilizer

2.  Lasso, dinoseb, thallium sulphate, EDB, alachlor, metolachlor,
benzene hexachloride, nitrates

3.  Clean Water Act, Superfund, Clean Air Act

4.  EPA, OSHA, National Academy of Sciences, Environmental Crimes
Bureau, National Agricultural Chemicals Association, National Wildlife
Federation

5.  regulate, ban, controls


<fac> Factor(s):

<nat> Nationality: U.S.

<nat> Nationality: NOT U.S.

</fac>


<def> Definition(s):

</top>


<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description

<num> Number: 020

<dom> Domain: International Economics

<title> Topic: Patent Infringement Lawsuits


<desc> Description:

Document will discuss a current patent infringement lawsuit.


<narr> Narrative:

A relevant document will discuss a current, settled or pending, patent
infringement lawsuit.  It will identify the plaintiff, the defendant,
and a specific (reference to a product or technology that infringes or
allegedly infringes a patent) or general (reference to an industry)
complaint.


<con> Concept(s):

1.  patent infringement suit, patent-infringement lawsuit, patent
dispute, patent action, patent case

2.  sue, file a complaint

3.  plaintiff, defendant

4.  issue a preliminary injunction, enjoin

4.  win, lose, settle, issue a permanent injunction, reinstate an
injunction

5.  damages, damage claim


<fac> Factor(s):

<time> Time: Current

</fac>

<def> Definition(s):

</top>


<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description

<num> Number: 027

<dom> Domain: Science and Technology

<title> Topic: Expert systems and neural networks in business or
manufacturing.


<desc> Description: 

Document describes an expert system or neural network application for 
business or manufacturing in layman's terms.


<narr> Narrative: 

To be relevant, a document must describe an operational or prototype 
expert system used in business or manufacturing. The description of the 
principles behind the operation of the expert system or neural network must 
be written in layman's terms, where a layman is considered any literate 
English speaking non-computer scientist.

<con> Concept(s):

1. expert system, rule-based, knowledge base, artificial intelligence,
AI

2. neural network, connectionism


<fac> Factor(s):

<def> Definition(s):

Expert System - An artificial intelligence application that uses a
knowledge base of human expertise to aid in solving a problem.  The
expert system derives its answers by executing a set of "if-then"
rules, called a knowledge base through a software program that
interacts with the user to ask questions, get input and explain the
rationale for the answer. Examples of expert systems can be found in
medical diagnosis, equipment repair, investment analysis, financial,
estate, and insurance planning, route scheduling and production
control and training.

Neural Network - A modeling technique that is based on the observed
behavior of biological neurons and is used to mimic the performance of
a system.  It consists of elements that start out connected in a
random pattern, and, based upon operational feedback, are molded into
the pattern of connections required to generate the required results.
Neural networks are used in applications such as robotics,
diagnostics, forecasting, image processing and pattern recognition.

</top>


<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description

<num> Number: 028

<dom> Domain: Science and Technology

<title> Topic: AT&T's Technical Efforts


<desc> Description: 

Document must describe AT&T's technical efforts in computers and 
communications.


<narr> Narrative: 

To be relevant, a document must contain information on American Telephone 
and Telegraph's (AT&T) technical efforts in computers and communications.  
Examples of relevant subject matter would include: product announcements, 
releases or cancellations, and discussion of AT&T Bell Labs research. 
Documents focusing either AT&T's efforts to buy other computer companies or 
AT&T's legal battles with other organizations, or AT&T's Unix operating 
system are NOT relevant. For the purposes of this topic the Regional Bell 
Operating Companies, (RBOC's) or the "Baby Bells" are not considered AT&T.


<con> Concept(s):

1. AT&T, American Telephone and Telegraph

2. 3B-2 minicomputer, AT&T 386 PC

3. AT&T Starlan

4. PBX,

5. Product announcements, product releases

<fac> Factor(s):

<def> Definition(s):

</top>


<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description

<num> Number: 029

<dom> Domain: Science and Technology

<title> Topic: Foreign installation of AT&T communications products


<desc> Description: 

Document cites efforts by a foreign entity to obtain communications 
technology from AT&T.


<narr> Narrative:

To be relevant, a document must identify efforts by any foreign entity 
except the United Kingdom and Canada to obtain communications technology 
from AT&T with the intent to install this technology.  For the purposes of 
this topic AT&T includes the Regional Bell Operating Companies (RBOC's) or 
the "Baby Bells".  Relevant communications technology includes, but is not 
limited to: switching systems, fiber optics and network management systems.


<con> Concept(s):

1.AT&T, Bell

2.PBX, digital switch

3.fiber optic

4.contract, award

5.install

6. upgrade, modernize

7. NOT the United Kingdom, NOT Canada

<fac> Factor(s):

<def> Definition(s):

Fiber Optics - Communications meduim using optical fibers made of thin
glass wire for the transmission of light.

Network Management - The monitoring of an active network in order to
detect, analyze and fix problems and gather statistics for network
administration and fine tuning.

PBX - An inhouse telephone switching system that electronically
interconnects one telephone extension to another, as well as to the
outside world.


</top>


<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description

<num> Number: 030

<dom> Domain: Science and Technology

<title> Topic: OS/2 problems


<desc> Description: 

Document cites problems associated with IBM's operating system product OS/2.


<narr> Narrative: 

To be relevant, a document will cite either a technical, aesthetic, 
administrative, or financial problem associated with International Business 
Machine's (IBM) operating system product 0S/2.  This includes problems OS/2 
causes for other pieces of software (e.g. delays in product availability or 
product instability).


<con> Concept(s):

1. OS/2

2. IBM, Microsoft

3. problems, delays, immaturity

<fac> Factor(s):

<def> Definition(s):

operating system - A master control program that runs the computer and
acts as a scheduler and traffic cop.  It allows all applications
programs to consume computer resources by performing job, task, data,
device and security management.

OS/2 - A single user, multi-tasking operating system for personal
computers with Intel 286 and higher central processing units jointly
developed by Microsoft Corp. and IBM.

</top>


<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description

<num> Number: 031

<dom> Domain: Science and Technology

<title> Topic: Advantages of OS/2


<desc> Description: 

Document cites technical advantages of IBM's OS/2 product over competing 
products.


<narr> Narrative: 

To be relevant, a document must present technical advantages offered 
by OS/2 over other PC operating systems or windowing environments.


<con> Concept(s):

1.OS/2

2.advantages, strengths

3. comparison, vs.

4. Windows, X-windows, DOS

5. IBM, Microsoft

<fac> Factor(s):

<def> Definition(s):


operating system - A master control program that runs the computer and
acts as a scheduler and traffic cop.  It allows all applications
programs to consume computer resources by performing job, task, data,
device and security management.

OS/2 - A single user, multi-tasking operating system for personal
computers with Intel 286 and higher central processing units jointly
developed by Microsoft Corp. and IBM.

window - a separate viewing area on a display screen as provided by
the software.

windows environment - Any operating system, operating system extension
or application program that provides multiple windows on a screen.

</top>


<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description

<num> Number: 032

<dom> Domain: Science and Technology

<title> Topic: Who outsources computer work to whom


<desc> Description: 

Document will identify a company that outsources some of its computer work 
to another company.


<narr> Narrative: 

To be relevant, the document must identify an outsourcing relationship 
between a specific information processing service provider and a client.


<con> Concept(s):

1. outsourcing, support, services

2. in-house, out-of-house

3. data center management, facilities management, network management.

<fac> Factor(s):

<def> Definition(s):

Outsourcing - a contractual commitment to purchase support services
(especially computer support) from another company rather than doing
the work in-house.  An example of outsourcing is if company A pays
company B to manage their computer facilities, or if company A simply
ships work to company B who performs some information processing
function on the work and returns the processed work to company A.

</top>


<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description

<num> Number: 035

<dom> Domain: Science and Technology

<title> Topic: Alternatives to Postscript


<desc> Description: 

Document must identify a need for, or the existence of, an alternative to 
Postscript.


<narr> Narrative: 

To be relevant, a document must identify a need for, or the existence of, 
an alternative to Postscript, a page description language.


<con> Concept(s):

1. Postcript alternatives

2. Adobe

3. Apple, Microsoft


<fac> Factor(s):

<def> Definition(s):


Page Description Language - A high level language for defining printer
output.

Postscript - A page description language from Adobe Systems, Inc.,
used in a wide variety of printers.

</top>


<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description

<num> Number: 036

<dom> Domain: Science and Technology

<title> Topic: How Rewritable Optical Disks Work


<desc> Description: 

Document describes the principles and mechanisms behind rewritable optical 
disk technology.


<narr> Narrative: 

To be relevant, a document must describe how rewritable optical disk 
technology works at length and in significant and comprehensive technical 
detail.


<con> Concept(s):

1. Rewritable Optical Disks


<fac> Factor(s):

<def> Definition(s):

Optical Disk Drives - A disk that is written and read by light.

 </top>


<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description

<num> Number:  040

<dom> Domain:  Finance 

<title> Topic:  Analyses of Savings and Loan Failures


<desc> Description:

Document will provide at least one reason why a U.S. Savings and Loan has 
failed, or why the industry generally is under stress.


<narr> Narrative: 

A relevant document will give at least one reason why a particular U.S. 
Savings and Loan has failed, or is about to be closed by public authorities 
or acquired by another financial institution.  A relevant document also 
could discuss problems in the Savings and Loan industry generally, citing at 
least one specific reason why S&L's are failing.  Unless containing some 
level of failure analysis, a document which simply reports on political 
discourse about the banking industry, reveals actions by public authorities, 
or, provides details on asset disposition or ownership/leadership changes at 
a given S&L, is NOT relevant. 

<con> Concept(s):

1.  savings and loan, S&L, thrift industry

2.  Federal Home Loan Bank Board

3.  Federal Savings and Loan Insurance Corporation, FSLIC

4.  Federal Asset Disposition Association


<fac> Factor(s):

<nat>  Nationality:  U.S.

</fac>


<def> Definition(s):

</top>


<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description


<num> Number: 041

<dom> Domain: Science and Technology

<title> Topic: Computer or Communications Systems Upgrade


<desc> Description: 

Document must identify an organization beginning, in the midst, or recently 
completing a computer or communications system upgrade.


<narr> Narrative:

To be relevant, a document must discuss the phasing out of an older 
generation of computer hardware, software or communications equipment in an 
operational computer or communications system. The document must also name 
the organization responsible for the upgrade and the technology to be used 
in the upgrade.  Documents announcing product upgrades or new releases of 
existing products are NOT relevant.


<con> Concept(s):

1. upgrade, transitions, phase-out

2. NOT product upgrades

<fac> Factor(s):

<def> Definition(s):

</top>


<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description

<num> Number: 043

<dom> Domain: U.S. Politics 

<title> Topic: U.S. Technology Policy


<desc> Description:

Document will describe federal actions to encourage, select, or protect
technology because of its presumed centrality to the future defense posture 
or economic competitiveness of the U.S.


<narr> Narrative: 

A relevant document will describe a federal action to aid research and 
development in an "emerging" or high technology area, to target commercial 
development of particular technologies deemed essential to future 
U.S.  competitiveness, or to protect those technologies, products, and 
processes which are to be kept under U.S. control because of defense and 
security considerations.  Although pertinent science, technology, and public 
policy issues are often discussed under such rubrics as "industrial policy," 
U.S.  competitiveness, or free trade vs. protectionism, a document is NOT 
relevant unless it identifies an actual federal action -- regulatory, legal, 
or financial -- reflective of such technology policy.  Relevant actions 
include provision of tax credits, providing research grants, extending 
antitrust exemptions, and prohibiting a proposed technology transfer.  
Relevant technologies include, but are not limited to, robotics, 
telecommunications equipment, computers, biotechnology, process technologies,
and advanced materials.      


<con> Concept(s):

1.  industrial policy, technology policy, cutting edge technology,
competitiveness, technology transfer controls, free trade, protectionism

2.  Sematech  

3.  Coretech, Council on Research and Technology

4.  National Science Foundation, NSF 

5.  Defense Science Board 


<fac> Factor(s):

<nat> Nationality: U.S.

</fac>


<def> Definition(s):

Sematech: a research consortium for semiconductor manufacturing techniques 

</top>


<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description

<num> Number: 044

<dom> Domain: Science and Technology

<title> Topic: Staff Reductions at Computers and Communications
Companies


<desc> Description: 

Document reports cutbacks or projected cutbacks of more than 500 workers 
for a computer or communications company.


<narr> Narrative: 

To be relevant, a document must contain information about a cutback of more 
than 500 workers at a company that sells some kind of computer or computer 
service or produces computer or communications hardware or software.


<con> Concept(s):

1. cutbacks, layoffs, attrition, reductions, fired

2. computers, communications

3. staff, management, workers

<fac> Factor(s):

<def> Definition(s):


</top>


<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description

<num> Number: 045

<dom> Domain: Science and Technology

<title> Topic: What Makes CASE succeed or fail


<desc> Description: 

Document must identify the ingredients for making CASE work, and identify 
companies with experience using CASE.


<narr> Narrative: 

To be relevant, a document must identify both the ingredients to the 
successful implementation of Computer Aided Software Engineering (CASE) and 
the companies that have had either success or failure in their attempts to 
use CASE tools and adopt CASE methodologies.

<con> Concept(s):


1. Computer Aided Software Engineering (CASE), rapid prototyping,
information engineering

2. success, improvement, productivity increase

3. fail, training, complexity, inflexible


<fac> Factor(s):


<def> Definition(s):

Computer Aided Software Engineering - Software that is used in any and
all phases of developing an information system, including analysis,
design and programming.

</top>


<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description

<num> Number: 046

<dom> Domain: Science and Technology

<title> Topic: Tracking Computer Virus Outbreaks


<desc> Description: 

Document will identify a computer virus attack and name the victimized 
organization.


<narr> Narrative: 

To be relevant, the document must contain a description of an outbreak of a 
computer virus, and name the victimized organization.


<con> Concept(s):

1. virus, worm, Madonna, Jerusalem-B, Stoned

2. computer


<fac> Factor(s):

<def> Definition(s):

Virus - A program used to infect a computer.  The purpose of the virus
can range from a simple prank to the destruction of data and programs.

</top>


<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description

<num> Number: 047

<dom> Domain: Science and Technology

<title> Topic: Contracts for Computer systems in excess of $1 Million.

<desc> Description: 

Document must report the granting of a contract for computer or 
communications equipment or services valued at more than $1 Million.


<narr> Narrative: 

To be relevant, a document must identify the selection of a source for the 
development or delivery of information systems products or services valued 
at more than $1 Million dollars.


<con> Concept(s):

1. Acquisition, procurement, contract, award

2. Million, Billion

3. computer, communications

<fac> Factor(s):

<def> Definition(s):

</top>


<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description

<num> Number: 048

<dom> Domain: Science and Technology

<title> Topic: Purchasers of Modern Communications Equipment


<desc> Description: 

Document must identify an organization purchasing a piece of communications 
equipment or software, described in database.


<narr> Narrative: 

To be relevant, a document must identify an organization which is purchasing 
a PBX, Local Area Network, Fax machine, or network management system which 
is discussed in any document in the database.

<con> Concept(s):

1. PBX, LAN, Network Management, Fax

2. Purchase, Acquisition, Contract

<fac> Factor(s):

<def> Definition(s):

PBX - An inhouse telephone switching system that electronically
interconnects one telephone extension to another, as well as to the
outside telephone network.


</top>


<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description

<num> Number: 049

<dom> Domain: Science and Technology

<title> Topic: Who's working with Supercomputers


<desc> Description: 

Document must identify an organization involved in the operation, 
programming or purchase of a supercomputer.


<narr> Narrative: 

To be relevant, a document must identify one of the following: a 
supercomputing center, a supercomputer purchase, a supercomputer export 
authorization, or the granting of a contract to a company known to perform 
supercomputer support services.


<con> Concept(s):

1. Supercomputer, Cray, IBM 3090

2. Contract, authorization, purchase, sale, establish

3. Research

<fac> Factor(s):

<def> Definition(s):

Supercomputer- the most powerful computers available, typically
consisting of multiple processors optimized to execute in the most
efficient manner possible.

</top>


<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description

<num> Number: 050

<dom> Domain: Science and Technology

<title> Topic: Potential Military Interest in Virtual Reality
Applications


<desc> Description: 

Document must describe virtual reality investigations being conducted by 
entities associated with the military industrial complex.


<narr> Narrative: 

To be relevant, the document must describe virtual reality applications. 
In addition, the organization involved in virtual reality applications must 
be a government agency or an established defense contractor (e.g. TRW, 
Hughes, Ford Aerospace etc.).

<con> Concept(s):

1. Virtual Reality (VR), cyberspace

2. Department of Defense, government

<fac> Factor(s):

<def> Definition(s):

Virtual Reality - A computer simulated reality that can interact with
all the senses.

</top>


<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description


<num> Number:  063 


<dom> Domain:  Science and Technology


<title> Topic:  Machine Translation


<desc> Description:

Document will identify a machine translation system.


<smry> Summary:

Document will identify a machine translation system.


<narr> Narrative:

A relevant document will identify a machine translation system which is being
developed or marketed in any country.  It will identify the developer or
vendor, name the system, and identify one or more features of the system.


<con> Concept(s):

1.  machine translation system

2.  language, dictionary, font

3.  batch, interactive, process, user interface


<fac> Factor(s):


<def> Definition(s):

</top>
 
 
<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description


<num> Number:  066 


<dom> Domain:  Science and Technology


<title> Topic:  Natural Language Processing


<desc> Description:

Document will identify a type of natural language processing technology which
is being developed or marketed in the U.S.

<smry> Summary:

Document will identify a type of natural language processing technology which
is being developed or marketed in the U.S.

<narr> Narrative:

A relevant document will identify a company or institution developing or
marketing a natural language processing technology, identify the technology,
and identify one or more features of the company's product.


<con> Concept(s):

1.  natural language processing

2.  translation, language, dictionary, font

3.  software applications


<fac> Factor(s):

<nat>  Nationality:  U.S.

</fac>


<def> Definition(s):

</top>
 
 
<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description


<num> Number:  076


<dom> Domain:  Law and Government 


<title> Topic:  U.S. Constitution - Original Intent


<desc> Description:

Document will include a discussion of, or debate over, the issue of the
original intent of the U.S. Constitution, or the meaning of a particular
amendment to the Constitution, or will present an individual's interpretation
of an amendment.


<smry> Summary:

Document will include a discussion of, or debate over, the issue of the
original intent of the U.S. Constitution, or the meaning of a particular
amendment to the Constitution, or will present an individual's interpretation
of an amendment.


<narr> Narrative:

A relevant document will include a discussion of, or debate over, the issue of
the original intent of the U.S. Constitution, or the meaning of a particular
amendment to the Constitution, or will present an individual's interpretation
of an amendment.  (A mere reference to the problem is not relevant.)


<con> Concept(s):

1.  U.S. Constitution, separation of powers, body of the Constitution, Bill of
    Rights, First Amendment, Fifth Amendment

2.  original intent
  

<fac> Factor(s):

<nat>  Nationality:  U.S.

</fac>


<def> Definition(s):

</top>
 
 
<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description


<num> Number:  082 


<dom> Domain:  Science and Technology


<title> Topic:  Genetic Engineering


<desc> Description:  

Document discusses a genetic engineering application, a product that has been,
is being, or will be developed by genetic manipulation, or attitudes toward
genetic engineering.


<smry> Summary:

Document discusses a genetic engineering application, a product that has been,
is being, or will be developed by genetic manipulation, or attitudes toward
genetic engineering.


<narr> Narrative:

A relevant document will discuss a product, e.g., drug, microorganism,
vaccine, animal, plant, agricultural product, developed by genetic engineering
techniques; identify an application, such as to clean up the environment or
human gene therapy for a specific problem; or, present human attitudes toward
genetic engineering.


<con> Concept(s):

1. genetic engineering, molecular manipulation

2. biotechnology
 
3. genetically engineered product: plant, animal, drug, microorganism,
   vaccine, agricultural product

4. cure a disease, clean up the environment, increase agricultural
   productivity
 

<fac> Factor(s):


<def> Definition(s):

</top>
 
 
<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description


<num> Number: 084


<dom> Domain: U.S. Economics 


<title> Topic: Alternative/renewable Energy Plant & Equipment Installation


<desc> Description:

Document will identify planned or under-construction alternative/renewable
energy plant or equipment installations.


<smry> Summary:

Document will identify planned or under-construction alternative/renewable
energy plant or equipment installations.


<narr> Narrative:

A relevant document will identify a specific alternative/renewable energy
plant or equipment installation planned or under-construction, to include the
technology employed, projected capacity or output, location, and specific
financial information, e.g. total cost, source of funding, estimated unit
production costs, etc.  Document will not focus on political discussions of
developing sources of alternate energy, nor will it focus on macroeconomic
discussions of national energy needs.


<con> Concept(s):

1.  Alternative energy, renewable energy

2.  Cogeneration, hydro power, solar energy, windmills, geothermal, biomass


<fac> Factor(s):

<nat> Nationality:  U.S.

<time> Time:  future

</fac>


<def> Definition(s):

</top>

 
<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description

num> Number: 094


<dom> Domain: Science and Technology


<title> Topic: Computer-aided Crime


<desc> Description:

Document must identify a crime perpetrated with the aid of a computer.


<smry> Summary:

Document must identify a criminal activity involving computers.


<narr> Narrative: 

To be relevant, a document must describe an illegal activity which was carried
out with the aid of a computer, either used as a planning tool, such as in
target research; or used in the conduct of the crime, such as by illegally
gaining access to someone else's computer files.  A document is NOT relevant
if it merely mentions the illegal spread of a computer virus or worm.
However, a document WOULD be relevant if the computer virus/worm were used in
conjunction with another crime, such as extortion.
  

<con> Concept(s):

1. crime, fraud

2. illegal access, corporate spying, extortion


<fac> Factor(s):

<def> Definition(s):

</top>
 
<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description


<num> Number: 095


<dom> Domain: Science and Technology


<title> Topic: Computer-aided Crime Detection


<desc> Description:

Document must describe a computer application to crime solving.


<smry> Summary:

Document must describe an actual or theoretical computer application
used in crime solving.


<narr> Narrative:

To be relevant, a document must describe either an actual or a theoretical
computer application to detective work, by the police or by another law
enforcement organization.  A relevant document could include techniques such
as profiling criminals and their methods of operation, identifying finger
prints, spotting anomalies, etc.
 

<con> Concept(s):

1. police, detective, sleuth, enforcement agency

2. clue, records, fingerprints, methods


<fac> Factor(s):

<def> Definition(s):

</top>
 
<top>


<head> Tipster Topic Description


<num> Number: 096


<dom> Domain: Science and Technology


<title> Topic: Computer-Aided Medical Diagnosis


<desc> Description:

Document must describe computer programs, or computerized equipment, which aid
in medical diagnosis.


<smry> Summary:

Document must identify computer programs, or computerized equipment, which are
in operational use in medical diagnosis.


<narr> Narrative:

To be relevant, a document must describe actual computer software or hardware
which is in operational use for the purpose of diagnosing, or assisting in
diagnosing, patients' medical conditions.


<con> Concept(s):

1. diagnosis, scanning, testing

2. tomagraph, digital subtraction angiography, magnetic resonance scanners


<fac> Factor(s):

<def> Definition(s):

</top>
 
 
<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description


<num> Number: 100


<dom> Domain: International Relations 


<title> Topic: Controlling the Transfer of High Technology


<desc> Description:

Document will identify efforts by the non-communist, industrialized states to
regulate the transfer of high-tech goods or "dual-use" technologies to
undesirable nations.


<smry> Summary:

Document will identify efforts by the non-communist, industrialized states to
regulate the transfer of high-tech goods or "dual-use" technologies to
undesirable nations.


<narr> Narrative:

A relevant document will identify activities of the U.S. Departments of
Commerce, Defense, and State to set policy or regulate exports of strategic
goods and technologies, or it will report on similar activities by allied
nations, or it will discuss technology transfer policy issues and
determinations under consideration by the Paris-based COCOM.  Unless
explicitly related to policy issues or establishment of regulations aimed at
controlling transfers of high technology goods and technologies, such events
as investigations of alleged violations of COCOM rules or arms shipments in
violation of embargoes are not relevant.


<con> Concept(s):

1.  technology transfer, export license, export controls, strategic goods, 
international trade security policy, high technology

2.  COCOM, Coordinating Committee on Multilateral Export Controls, 
    Japan, U.S., NATO

3.  Toshiba Machine, Kongsberg Vaapenfabrik, C. Itoh


<fac> Factor(s):


<def> Definition(s):

1.  "dual-use" technology: a technology usable in both non-military and
    military products

</top>


<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description


<num> Number: 103


<dom> Domain: Law and Government 


<title> Topic: Welfare Reform


<desc> Description:

Document will report those proposed or enacted changes to U.S. federal, 
state, or local welfare laws and regulations which are propounded as reforms.


<smry> Summary:

Document will report those proposed or enacted changes to U.S. federal, 
state, or local welfare laws and regulations which are propounded as reforms.


<narr> Narrative:

A relevant document will reveal attempts by any U.S. jurisdiction to change 
the legal or regulatory context of existing welfare programs, or to add new 
programs, which are described or labeled as a reform.  For the purposes of 
this topic, a welfare program must revolve around a transfer payment for 
which the recipient had not previously made contributions, other than 
through general tax payments. Examples include General Assistance, Aid for 
Families with Dependent Children (AFDC), public housing, Medicaid, income 
subsidies (rent and fuel subsidies, earned income tax credit, food stamps, 
etc.), child care programs (day care subsidies, nutrition programs, Head 
Start, etc.), and vocational training programs.  NOT relevant are those 
programs which could be viewed as the payment of insurance benefits to those 
who had previously made contributions (either directly or indirectly through 
a family member or employer), such as Medicare, Social Security survivor's 
benefits, and unemployment insurance.  Also NOT relevant are those documents
which deal solely with the financing or administration of existing programs.


<con> Concept(s):

1. welfare recipient, public assistance, family assistance, welfare benefit, 
relief

2. welfare reform, welfare dependency, reform movement, workfare, homeless, 
welfare culture

3. General Assistance, Aid for Families with Dependent Children, AFDC, 
Medicaid, earned income tax credit, food stamps, Head Start, job training, 
public housing


<fac> Factor(s):

<nat> Nationality: U.S.

</fac>


<def> Definition(s):

Welfare program: although the above distinction between a "pure" transfer 
payment program and a putative insurance program is debatable, the 
distinction is made to focus the data search on those programs which are 
clearly in the welfare category, as opposed to the wide variety of social 
programs supported by U.S. government entities.

</top>


<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description


<num> Number: 106


<dom> Domain: Law and Government 


<title> Topic: U.S. Control of Insider Trading


<desc> Description:

Document will report proposed or enacted changes to U.S. laws and 
regulations designed to prevent insider trading.


<smry> Summary:

Document will report proposed or enacted changes to U.S. laws and 
regulations designed to prevent insider trading.


<narr> Narrative:

A relevant document will contain information on proposed or enacted changes 
to U.S. laws and regulations, including state laws and stock market rules, 
which are aimed at increasing penalties or closing loopholes in existing 
institutional discouragements to insider trading.  NOT relevant are reports 
on specific insider trading cases, such as the prosecutions and settlements 
related to the Boesky - Milken - Drexel Burnham Lambert scandal, unless the 
report also contains specific information on legal or regulatory change. 


<con> Concept(s):

1. insider trading

2. securities law, bill, legislation, regulation, rule

3. Insider Trading Sanctions Act, Insider Trading and Securities Fraud 
Enforcement Act

4. Securities and Exchange Commission, SEC, Commodity Futures Trading 
Commission, CFTC, National Association of Securities Dealers, NASD


<fac> Factor(s):

<nat> Nationality: U.S.

</fac>


<def> Definition(s):

</top>


<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description


<num> Number: 113


<dom> Domain: Science and Technology 


<title> Topic: New Space Satellite Applications


<desc> Description:

Document will report on non-traditional applications of space satellite
technology.


<smry> Summary:

Document will report on non-traditional (innovative) applications of
space satellite technology.


<narr> Narrative:

A relevant document will discuss more recent or emerging applications of 
space satellite technology.  NOT relevant are such "traditional" or early 
satellite age usages as INTELSAT transmission of voice and data 
communications for telephone companies or program feeds for established 
television networks.  Also NOT relevant are such established uses of 
satellites as military communications, earth mineral resource mapping, and 
support of weather forecasting.  A few examples of newer applications are 
the building of private satellite networks for transfer of business data, 
facsimile transmission of newspapers to be printed in multiple locations, 
and direct broadcasting of TV signals.  The underlying purpose of this topic 
is to collect information on recent or emerging trends in the application of 
space satellite technology.
 

<con> Concept(s):

1. satellite, technology, use of space

2. satellite network, facsimile, direct broadcasting


<fac> Factor(s):


<def> Definition(s):

INTELSAT: a 113-nation consortium with a near monopoly on international
satellite communications.

COMSAT:  the congressionally chartered U.S. satellite communications company
which holds 25% of INTELSAT's stock.

</top>


<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description


<num> Number: 115


<dom> Domain: Law & Government 


<title> Topic: Impact of the 1986 Immigration Law


<desc> Description:

Document will report specific consequence(s) of the U.S.'s Immigration Reform
and Control Act of 1986.


<smry> Summary:

Document will report concrete example(s) of the impact of the U.S.'s
Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986.


<narr> Narrative:

A relevant document will provide concrete example(s) of the impact of the 
U.S.'s Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 (also known as the 
Simpson-Mazzoli Act).  Relevant examples are a foreign government's official 
complaints against the law, domestic legal and political attempts to delay 
enforcement or modify provisions of the act, imposition of fines on 
employers who hire illegal aliens, reports on undocumented workers taking 
advantage of the legalization program, enforcement actions by the Immigration
and Naturalization Service, etc.  NOT relevant are such general reports as 
analyses of the law's potential impact, explication of the law's provisions, 
continuing political discourse on immigration issues, as well as immigration 
cases not related to the 1986 law. 


<con> Concept(s):

1.  Simpson-Mazzoli Act

2.  immigration, Immigration and Naturalization Service, INS, Border Patrol

3.  illegal alien (or immigrant), undocumented worker, deportation, amnesty,
extended voluntary departure, EVD


<fac> Factor(s):


<def> Definition(s):

</top>


<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description


<num> Number: 117


<dom> Domain: U.S. Economics 


<title> Topic: Capacity of the U.S. Cellular Telephone Network


<desc> Description:

Document will provide at least one datum which helps build a description,
quantification, and evaluation of the capacity of the U.S. cellular telephone
network.


<smry> Summary:

Document will provide at least one datum which helps build a description,
quantification, and evaluation of the capacity of the U.S. cellular telephone
network.


<narr> Narrative:

A relevant document will provide data which helps answer the question, what 
is the capacity of the installed U.S. cellular telephone network?  Relevant
information can be cumulative over time, but it must be specific regarding 
such factors as area of operation for a given cellular company, number of 
units serviced by that company, type of equipment used, technology employed, 
and near-term plans for upgrades and expansions.  NOT relevant is such 
information as investments and capitalization, management changes, 
acquisitions and mergers (unless concrete data relative to capacity also is 
reported), equipment manufacture, paging services, etc.    


<con> Concept(s):

1.  cellular, cellular telephone (or phone)


<fac> Factor(s):

<nat> Nationality: U.S.

<time> Time: past, present, and near future

</fac>


<def> Definition(s):

</top>


<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description


<num> Number: 119


<dom> Domain: International Politics 


<title> Topic: Actions Against International Terrorists


<desc> Description:

Document will report activities by established political authorities against
international terrorists.


<smry> Summary:

Document will report activities by established government authorities against
international terrorists and their sponsors.


<narr> Narrative:

A relevant document will report on military, political, economic, or legal 
actions taken against international terrorists, or states accused of 
sponsoring terrorism, by recognized governments worldwide.  The official 
action must be against groups or individuals (or their sponsors) who fit the 
international terrorist mold, as defined below, rather than be actions 
against opponents of a government who are labeled as "terrorist" for 
political or propaganda purposes.


<con> Concept(s):

1. terrorist, terrorism, international terrorist (or terrorism)


<fac> Factor(s):


<def> Definition(s):

International Terrorism: as defined in Title 22 of the U.S. Code, Section
2656F(d), terrorism is premeditated, politically motivated violence 
perpetrated against noncombatant targets by subnational or clandestine 
agents, usually intended to influence an audience.  By extension, 
international terrorism transcends national boundaries and involves the 
citizens, property, or territory of more than one country.

</top>


<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description


<num> Number: 123


<dom> Domain: Medical & Biological 


<title> Topic: Research into & Control of Carcinogens


<desc> Description:

Document will report on studies into linkages between environmental factors or
chemicals which might cause cancer, and/or it will report on governmental
actions to identify, control, or limit exposure to those factors or chemicals
which have been shown to be carcinogenic.


<smry> Summary:

Document will report on studies into linkages between environmental factors or
chemicals which might cause cancer, and/or it will report on governmental
actions to identify, control, or limit exposure to those factors or chemicals
which have been shown to be carcinogenic.


<narr> Narrative:

A relevant document will report on research into linkages between cancer and
environmental hazards and/or the efforts of governments to limit exposure of
their people to carcinogens.  The governmental action may be of any category,
e.g. entry into international agreements, enactment of domestic laws, issuance
of administrative regulations, support of carcinogen research, air and soil
sampling, launching of public education campaigns, etc.  


<con> Concept(s):

1. cancer, carcinogen

2. treaty, agreement, law, regulation, study, research, education, Super Fund


<fac> Factor(s):


<def> Definition(s):

</top>


<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description


<num> Number: 125


<dom> Domain: Law & Government 


<title> Topic: Anti-smoking Actions by Government


<desc> Description:

Document will describe actions by public authorities to limit the human use of
tobacco.


<smry> Summary:

Document will describe actions by public authorities to limit the human use of
tobacco.


<narr> Narrative:

A relevant document will provide at least one example of actions proposed 
or taken by public authorities anywhere in the world to limit or discourage 
the human use of tobacco.  Limits may take any regulatory or legal form 
appropriate to that jurisdiction, to include sales controls, limits on 
advertisement, mandatory warning labels, and establishment of no-smoking 
zones.  Court findings against tobacco companies (if any), as well as 
publicly financed anti-smoking campaigns and education programs, are to be 
considered as relevant forms of discouragement.  In addition, public funding 
of medical research into tobacco use is relevant information.  However, 
private anti-smoking initiatives, such as creating no-smoking areas, are NOT 
relevant unless traceable in origin to government action.  Also NOT relevant 
are contradictory, pro-tobacco government actions, such as tobacco price 
support programs and export encouragements.


<con> Concept(s):

1.  tobacco

2.  smoking, anti-smoking


<fac> Factor(s):


<def> Definition(s):

</top>


<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description


<num> Number: 142


<dom> Domain: International Relations 


<title> Topic: Impact of Government Regulated Grain Farming on International 
Relations


<desc> Description:

Document will show how and why national governments supervise and protect 
their own growers of grain and/or how these policies impact a nation's 
foreign trade and diplomatic relations.


<smry> Summary:

Document will show how or why national governments supervise and protect 
their own growers of grain or how these policies impact a nation's 
foreign trade and diplomatic relations.


<narr> Narrative:

A relevant document will demonstrate specifically how a government anywhere 
in the world protects domestic production of grains (such as corn, rice, and 
wheat), provide the rationale for such policies (if available), and/or 
demonstrate the linkage between such domestic agricultural policies and a 
nation`s foreign trade and diplomatic relations.


<con> Concept(s):

1. export subsidies, export restitution, import quotas, farm-trade barriers

2. price supports, farm subsidies, agricultural supports

3. self-sufficiency, embargo, import dependence, high quality food supply, 
farm interests

4. grain, animal feed, corn, rice, wheat

5. foreign trade, trade negotiations, agricultural policy

6. EC's Common Agricultural Policy, Japan's Ministry of Agriculture, 
Forestry, and Fisheries, Zenchu, Liberal Democratic Party, LDP, U.S.'s 
Export Enchancement Program, food importing countries


<fac> Factor(s):


<def> Definition(s):

</top>


<top>

<head> Tipster Topic Description


<num> Number: 143


<dom> Domain: U.S. Politics 


<title> Topic: Why Protect U.S. Farmers?


<desc> Description:

Document will contribute to an analysis of how and why, and at what cost, 
the U.S. federal government protects, supports, and controls U.S. farming.


<smry> Summary:

Document will contribute to an analysis of how or at what cost, 
the U.S. federal government protects, supports, and controls U.S. farming.


<narr> Narrative:

A relevant document will describe actions taken by the U.S. government to 
protect U.S. farmers; or, reveal how farm price supports, export subsidies, 
import quotas, and other special farm policies impact the rural economy, as 
well as consumer costs and the federal budget; or, indicate a rationale used 
to justify farm support policies; or, show the relationship between 
agricultural policies and Congressional politics; or, suggest how national 
farm policies distort the "free" functioning of the agricultural sector of 
the national economy.


<con> Concept(s):

1. farm policy, farm exports, price supports, farm subsidy, deficiency 
payment, set-aside, supply controls, payment-in-kind, PIK, program crops, 
export subsidies, import quotas, crop base, production controls

2. Export Enhancement Program, EEP, Agriculture Adjustment Act, Targeted 
Export Assistance, TEA

3. rural districts, farm state, farming, farmers, agricultural sector

4. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agriculture Department, USDA, U.S. Congress


<fac> Factor(s):

<nat> Nationality: U.S.

</fac>


<def> Definition(s):

</top>


<top>

<num> Number:  161


<title> Topic: Acid Rain  

<desc> Description:

Document will provide information on the problems and actions 
associated with what is known as acid rain.

<narr>  Narrative:

A relevant document should include any of the problem areas associated
with what is known as acid rain.  Relevant data would include such 
areas as the source, possible cause, actions taken to correct or
eliminate, and the areas of the country/world affected.  Other items
of interest would be any joint nation agreements/actions, legislative
actions, and data or comments on the cost of clean up versus the 
benefits to be gained.  Not relevant documents would be those that
contain only general comments on the subject with no real facts or
recommendations or those deemed to be politically motivated.  Also
documents containing only generalized or brief statements on upcoming
visits, meetings, legislation related to the acid rain problem would
be non-relevant unless they contain specific facts relating to the 
acid rain problem.

</top>

 
<top>

<num> Number:  169 


<title> Topic:  Cost of Garbage/Trash Removal 

<desc> Description:

Document will report problems with garbage or trash removal and 
identify a related cost figure for a household or government     
entity (local, state, or federal).
 
<narr>  Narrative:

To be relevant a document will identify a problem concerning 
garbage/trash removal and include a cost figure for a household,
city, state, or federal government.  A document that reports 
garbage problems without referring to costs is not relevant.  
A document that reports penalties for not adhering to 
regulations is not relevant.  References to garbage/trash
removal as being "costly" or "expensive" without actual figures
are not relevant.  A document that identifies costs for 
recycling is relevant.  Documents that identify how much a
landfill site survey, furnace, etc. may cost without a 
specific purchase are not relevant.

</top>
 
 
<top>

<num> Number:  171 


<title> Topic:  Use of Mutual Funds in an Individual's    
Retirement Strategy 

<desc> Description:

Document will discuss the role of mutual funds as an
investment alternative in formulating an individual's
retirement program.

<narr>  Narrative:

To be relevant a document will address the role/use of
mutual funds as an integral part of an individuals     
investment retirement program, including Individual
Retirement Accounts (IRA) which are assigned/designated.
The document must identify the specific type of fund; i.e., 
income, stock, bond, etc., the reason for its selection 
when compared to other types of funds available, and in 
concert with the needs and capabilities of the individual 
investor.  The names of individual funds, companies 
administering the funds or funds portfolio managers are 
not relevant unless they identify a unique option or 
feature not commonly available to the investor in other
financial programs utilized in retirement planning. 

</top>
 
 
<top>

<num> Number:  173 


<title> Topic:  Smoking Bans 

<desc> Description:

Document will provide data on smoking bans initiated worldwide
in the public and private sector workplace, on various modes of
public transportation, and in commercial advertising.

<narr>  Narrative:

A relevant document would include data on smoking bans that have
been initiated worldwide in the workplace, on various modes of
transportation, and in commercial advertising.  Relevant 
information would include such data as who initiated the ban,
affected areas, enforcement policy/procedures if any, and any
penalties that may be imposed.  Also relevant would be tobacco
company reactions, legislation imposing a smoking ban, and
legal actions or court decisions pertaining to a smoking ban.
Not relevant would be documents containing public or private
sector comments on smoking in general but not related to a 
specific ban.  Also not relevant would be documents related
to health hazards associated with smoking and not referring
to a smoking ban.
 
</top>
 
<top>

<num> Number:  174 


<title> Topic:  Hazardous Waste Cleanup 

<desc> Description:

Document will provide data on the Comprehensive Environmental
Response, Compensation, and Liability Act known as the 
Superfund Hazardous Waste Cleanup Program.

<narr>  Narrative:

A relevant document would provide data on what is referred
to as the Superfund Hazardous Waste Cleanup Program.  Relevant
data would be in such areas as information on how much money
is in the approved EPA budget to support the Superfund; goals
and policies of the program; cleanup problems created by the
Superfund Law and associated costs, if known; numbers of sites
on the cleanup list; effectiveness of the program; as well
as actions taken in response to the Superfund Law.  Also 
relevant would be data on actions taken by the EPA to recover
costs as well as any court decisions made in response to 
Superfund actions.  Documents that discuss hazardous waste
operations in general with only reference to Superfund would  
be considered as not relevant.  Data on proposed budget dollar
figures as well as politically motivated statements on the
Superfund Program would not be relevant.

</top>
 
<top>

<num> Number:  182 


<title> Topic:  Commercial Overfishing Creates Food Fish Deficit  

<desc> Description:

Document will provide information that the world's food fish 
population is decreasing due to commercial overfishing, and 
should present information for the need for counteractive
measures.

<narr>  Narrative:

Relevant document will present data that reflects that 
commercial overfishing has created a shortage in the world
food fish population.  Document will identify any law or 
regulation or area restrictions and limits resulting from
the shortage, and alternate actions being taken to supplement
the current demand for food fish; e.g., aquaculture, different
fishing areas, alternative species of fish.
 
</top>
 

<top>

<num> Number:  188 


<title> Topic:  Beachfront Erosion 

<desc> Description:

Document will identify instances of beach erosion anywhere in
the U.S. and what, if anything, is being done to prevent its
repetition.

<narr>  Narrative:

To be relevant, a document will identify a specific location
and whether the erosion was natural or storm related.  Procedures
implemented to replenish current beaches and to preclude or
minimize future instances of erosion would also be relevant.
Identification of funds, regardless of source, for use on 
specific beaches or areas would be relevant as well as  
identification of any local, state or federal legislative 
action(s) restricting use of affected areas, erosion of
farmland and along rivers and related stream banks is
not relevant.

</top>

<top>

 
<num> Number:  191


<title> Topic: Efforts to Improve U.S. Schooling

<desc> Description:

Documents will report an attempt or idea within the U.S.
to improve student performance at any level (K through
post-graduate) by any means (teacher pay, new equipment,
new methods, new incentives, etc.).

<narr>  Narrative:

To be relevant, document will:

(a) specify the suggestion or course of action being
undertaken which had as its goal an improvement of
scholastic achievement at any level within the U.S.
educational establishment, and

(b) identify the proponent or proponents of such an
improvement.
 
</top>