bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is Perceived Emotional Support Beneficial? Well-Being and Health in Independent and Interdependent Cultures
Authors: Uchida Yukiko , Kitayama Shinobu , Mesquita Batja , Reyes Jose Alberto S. , Morling Beth
Published: March 2008

Previous studies show there is little or no association between perceived emotional support and well-being in European American culture. The authors hypothesized that this paradoxical absence of any benefit of perceived support is unique to cultural contexts that privilege independence rather than interdependence of the self. Study 1 tested college students and found, as predicted, that among Euro-Americans a positive effect of perceived emotional support on subjective well-being (positive affect) was weak and, moreover, it disappeared entirely once self-esteem was statistically controlled. In contrast, among Asians in Asia (Japanese and Filipinos) perceived emotional support positively predicted subjective well-being even after self-esteem was controlled. Study 2 extended Study 1 by testing both Japanese and American adults in midlife with respect to multiple indicators of well-being and physical health. Overall, the evidence underscores the central significance of culture as a moderator of the effectiveness of perceived emotional support.
Implicit Ingroup Metafavoritism: Subtle Preference for Ingroup Members Displaying Ingroup Bias
Authors: Castelli Luigi , Tomelleri Silvia , Zogmaister Cristina
Published: March 2008

The current article investigated how individuals evaluate ingroup members displaying either ingroup bias or egalitarian intergroup behaviors. The hypotheses predicted that on explicit responses a preference for the egalitarian ingroup member would emerge; in contrast, on more spontaneous and uncontrolled responses, a preference for the ingroup favoritist would result. Across four studies these hypotheses were confirmed for both minimal groups (Studies 1 and 2) and ethnic groups (Studies 3 and 4). Despite a verbal preference for those who behaved in an egalitarian way, an implicit ingroup metafavoritism was found. Overall, results indicated the presence of dual attitudes in the perception of ingroup members and the strict interconnection between intergroup behaviors and intragroup perception.
HIV Prevention for Latino Adolescent Mothers and Their Partners
Authors: Koniak-Griffin Deborah , Lesser Janna , Henneman Tanya , Rong Huang  , Xin Huang  , Tello Jerry , Kappos Barbara , González-Figueroa Evelyn , Cumberland William G.
Published: March 2008

This study evaluates the outcomes of a theory-based, couple-focused HIV prevention program for Latino adolescent mothers and their male partners. The sample includes 49 couples (98 individuals) who receive either the intervention or only an HIV information session (comparison). The six-session, culturally appropriate intervention was developed through a community—academic partnership. Findings at the 6-month evaluation show that the probability of unprotected sex is significantly reduced and intentions to use condoms increase over time for participants in the experimental group, compared with the comparison group ( p < .001), although AIDS knowledge improves for participants in both groups. Females in both groups have higher intentions of using condoms ( p < .01) and lower probability of unsafe sex ( p < .05) at baseline and over time, compared with their male partners. The intervention is well accepted by the inner-city adolescents and is realistic for implementation in a community setting.
Spirituality Expressed by Caregivers of Stroke Survivors
Authors: Pierce Linda L. , Steiner Victoria , Havens Heidi , Tormoehlen Karen
Published: March 2008

Thirty-six caregivers of stroke survivors who are new to that role participate in a Web-based support and education intervention over the course of a year. The authors use a secondary analysis of a total of 2,148 e-mail messages that these caregivers posted to the intervention's discussion group. Rigorous content analysis is used to analyze the narrative data coded to spirituality ( n = 230 e-mails). Four themes emerge and are drawn to Friedemann's (1995) framework of systemic organization: (a) feeling the presence of a greater power, (b) practicing rituals, (c) being one with nature, and (d) interacting with family and friends. Spirituality gives these caregivers hope and sustenance, but it also helps them express themselves more fully during a difficult time of change. The e-mail discussion data presented here highlight the importance of increased awareness of addressing spirituality in nurse—client encounters and designing interventions to support the caregivers.
Educators' Experience of Teaching Nursing Research to Undergraduates
Authors: Mansour Tamam B. , Porter Eileen J.
Published: March 2008

Most research pertaining to the teaching of nursing research has focused on learning outcomes and students' attitudes toward research. Few scholars have explored what it is like to teach nursing research. The purpose of this study was to describe the experience of teaching undergraduate nursing research. Data were obtained from 12 nurse educators through e-mail interviews and analyzed using Giorgi's method of descriptive phenomenology. Four meaning units describe the experience: marketing research content, introducing the research process, enhancing student abilities to learn about research, and enhancing personal abilities to teach research. The three meaning units that focus on faculty intentions toward students are somewhat consistent with prior research but include interesting new ideas. Concerning the last meaning unit, participants reported an interest in learning about teaching strategies, advanced statistics, and informational technology. Deans and directors should explore the learning needs of such faculty and offer appropriate ongoing education.
Influence of Suture Material on the Biomechanical Behavior of Suture-Tendon Specimens
Authors: Bisson Leslie J. , Manohar Leslie M. , Wilkins Ryan D. , Gurske-Deperio Jennifer , Ehrensberger Mark T.
Published: March 2008

Background

Despite technical advances in rotator cuff surgery, recurrent or persistent defects in the repaired tendon continue to occur. Improved strength of sutures and suture anchors has resulted in the most common site of failure being the suture-tendon interface.

Hypothesis

The type of suture material used has a significant effect on the biomechanics of the suture-tendon interface.

Study Design

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods

Thirty-two bovine infraspinatus specimens were randomly assigned to simple suture fixation using No. 2 Fiberwire, Ultrabraid, Orthocord, or Ethibond. Each specimen was subjected to cyclic testing from 5 to 30 N for 30 cycles, followed by load-to-failure testing.

Results

Cyclic testing revealed significantly greater elongation with Ultrabraid, whereas peak-to-peak displacements were lowest for Fiberwire and greatest for Orthocord. Load-to-failure testing revealed no significant differences between any suture material for ultimate tensile load. Fiberwire and Orthocord repairs had the highest stiffness. The most common failure mode during load-to-failure testing was suture breakage in Ethibond specimens and suture cutting through the tendon in the polyblend suture specimens.

Conclusion

The type of suture material has a significant effect on the biomechanical behavior of the suture-tendon interface.

Clinical Relevance

The type of suture may influence early gap formation and ultimate healing of rotator cuff repairs.
Biomechanical Assessment of TYPE II Superior Labral Anterior-Posterior (SLAP) Lesions Associated with Anterior Shoulder Capsular Laxity as Seen in Throwers
Authors: Mihata Teruhisa , McGarry Michelle H. , Tibone James E. , Fitzpatrick Michael J. , Kinoshita Mitsuo , Lee Thay Q.
Published: March 2008

Background

Type II superior labral anterior-posterior lesions in throwers are often associated with anterior shoulder capsular laxity.

Hypothesis

Shoulder instability in patients with type II superior labral anterior-posterior lesions may result from the associated shoulder capsular laxity rather than the superior labral anterior-posterior lesion alone.

Study Design

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods

Six cadaveric shoulders were externally rotated to 20% beyond the maximum humeral external rotation at 60° of glenohumeral abduction, which simulated 90° of shoulder abduction, to detach the superior labrum and elongate the anterior shoulder capsular ligaments. The detached labrum was then repaired to isolate the effect of the detached superior labrum and that of the capsular laxity. Rotational range of motion was measured at 60° of glenohumeral abduction. Anterior-posterior glenohumeral translation was measured at 30° and 60° of glenohumeral abduction. Superior-inferior glenohumeral translation was measured at 0° and 60° of glenohumeral abduction.

Results

The experimentally created type II superior labral anterior-posterior lesion and capsular laxity significantly increased anterior translation at 30° (mean difference, 1.0 ± 0.8 mm; P < .05) and 60° (mean difference, 2.2 ± 2.0 mm; P < .05) of glenohumeral abduction. Subsequent superior labral anterior-posterior repair restored the anterior translation but only at 30° of glenohumeral abduction (mean difference, 0.9 ± 0.6 mm; P < .05).

Conclusion

Because of the anterior capsular laxity associated with type II superior labral anterior-posterior lesions, superior labral anterior-posterior repair of the peeled-back superior labrum may not restore anterior glenohumeral translation at 90° of shoulder abduction.

Clinical Relevance

Anterior shoulder capsular laxity associated with type II superior labral anterior-posterior lesions may cause anterior shoulder instability at 90° of shoulder abduction in throwers even after superior labral anterior-posterior lesion repair.
Measurement of Central Venous Pressure From a Peripheral Intravenous Catheter Following Cardiopulmonary Bypass in Infants and Children With Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Baty Laura , Russo Pierantonio , Tobias Joseph D.
Published: March 2008

The current study evaluates the feasibility and accuracy of measuring central venous pressure from a peripheral intravenous catheter following cardiopulmonary bypass in infants and children. Central venous pressure was simultaneously measured from a right atrial catheter and from a peripheral intravenous cannula. The continuity of the peripheral intravenous cannula with the central venous system was evaluated by noting the change in the pressure during a sustained inspiratory effort and during occlusion of the vessel above (proximal to) the catheter. The cohort for the study included 29 infants and children. In 5 of the 29 patients (17%), there was no increase in the peripheral venous pressure in response to a Valsalva maneuver or occlusion of the extremity proximal to the intravenous site. The difference between peripheral venous pressure and central venous pressure in these patients was 11 ± 3 mm Hg versus 2 ± 1 mm Hg in the patients in whom the peripheral venous pressure increased with these maneuvers ( P < .0001). No clinically significant variation in the accuracy of the technique was noted based on the actual CVP value, size of the PIV, its location, or the patient's weight. Provided that the peripheral venous pressure increases to a sustained inspiratory breath and occlusion above the intravenous site, there is a clinically useful correlation between the peripheral venous pressure and the central venous pressure following cardiopulmonary bypass in infants and children with congenital heart disease.
Citizenship information service provision in the United Kingdom
Authors: Marcella Rita , Baxter Graeme
Published: March 2008

Reports results of 27 case study visits to UK public libraries, Citizens Advice Bureaux (CABx) and other advice agencies to examine existing levels of citizenship information provision within these organizations. The study covered all 13 UK Government Office Regions and one library authority, plus either one CAB or other advice agency, was visited in each region. The visits consisted of interviews with staff and examination of the organizations’ collections of citizenship and community information. Data was gathered on: the extent to which these organizations provide citizenship information and/or advice; staff and training issues; types of citizenship enquiries most frequently received; local demographic factors that affect citizenship information needs; type and arrangement of materials used to answer enquiries; the public’s preferred methods of approaching the organizations; user satisfaction with services; use of information and communication technologies to aid citizenship information provision; links with other citizenship information providers; and future plans to develop services. The findings suggest that public libraries can learn from Citizens Advice Bureaux and vice versa. Concludes that public libraries could develop a more proactive approach to the identification of issues where information is being or will be required by users. Specialized local needs identified included: greater need for HIV/AIDS information; financial problems and debts; seasonal unemployment; and, in Belfast, dealing with the effects of bombing or intimidation. Problems identified included: users from other catchment areas utilizing the service; and users’ requirement for privacy and confidentiality in their approach to the agency, particularly in close-knit communities.
A new outlook
Authors: Kinnell Margaret , Creaser Claire
Published: March 2008

Reports results of a questionnaire survey of UK public library services, undertaken at the end of 1999 by the Library and Information Statistics Unit (LISU), Loughborough University, to benchmark UK practice against international good practice and the recognized standards set out in the Library Association National Guidelines. The study was conducted against the background of the statutory duty of UK public library services to provide for blind and partially sighted users under the 1995 Disability Discrimination Act. The full objectives of the survey were: to build on and extend the findings of the 1997 Royal National Institute for the Blind (RNIB) Survey of public library authorities; to assess progress in UK authorities since the 1997 Survey; to assess developments in the new unitary authorities; to monitor the progress of public library services against the Library Association’s Guidelines; and to place particular emphasis upon measuring service to users and the integration of public library services with those of other agencies. Data were gathered from 141 UK public library authorities (67.79% response rate). Presents a number of recommendations, highlighting the actions required to ensure greater equity of provision and to bring UK services up to a common high standard in this area, covering: policy statements; budgetary provision; staffing; partnerships; service evaluation; materials provision; equipment; provision and access; and promotion.
An Analysis of LC Retrospective Cataloguing Data to determine its relevance for the British University Library
Authors: Reid Bruce J. , Green Betty
Published: March 2008

The cataloguing and classification data base represented by the Library of Congress and National Union Catalogs in their printed book form is analysed by random sampling in order to ascertain its usefulness for re-cataloguing and re-classifying the entire stock of a medium- sized, well-established British university library. The data is found adequate for such a purpose.
Ground Rules for the Study and Teaching of Subject Literatures
Authors: Aiyepeku Wilson O.
Published: March 2008

Published studies concerning the characteristics of subject literatures reveal that there is no eommon basis for determining what constitutes the literature of a subject. Although con siderable knowledge exists on the bibliometric and documentation characteristics of many subjects, library schools continue to teach essentially basic reference sources in large groesps of subject areas. Four criteria for determining the scope of subject literatures are stiggested and a Curriculum for the Literature of Geography is proposed as example of how education for librarianship must reflect both established and controversial knowledge.
The Psychology of Inquiry
Authors: McFadyen Don
Published: March 2008

Just as human activity includes both the sciences and the humanities, so reference inquiries reflect a spectrum of needs, including both information and experience respectively. Although information and experience are mutually interdependent, they represent different orders of consciousness and 'logic'. Experiential inquiries must therefore be matched by experiential, i.e., open-ended techniques of question-negotiation and search strategy.
Scientists in Librarianship and Information Work
Authors: Wood Frances E.
Published: March 2008

A survey of the careers of scientists who graduated from the Postgraduate School of Librarian ship and Information Science between I965 and I973. Aspects considered include the stage at which the career choice was made, types of employment and mobility between types, geographical limitation and employment, duties undertaken, factors affecting job satisfaction/ dissatisfaction, reasons for changing posts, professional activities and wastage from the professions. The survey demonstrates that scientists obtained employment in a wide range of libraries and information units and showed considerable mobility between different sectors of employment and different types of librarianship and information work. The great majority were satisfied with their posts.
A Justification of Air- Conditioning in Libraries
Authors: Torrance J.S.
Published: March 2008

The energy crises of some eighteen months ago produced good and bad re-actions. The good re-action was the recognition, at least, by most people of the crass mis-use of energy by the industrial world over many decades. The bad re-action was the ill-considered immediate assumption of abandoning the use of alleged high-energy consuming systems in buildings.

This paper endeavours to persuade readers that an air-conditioning concept is correct for a properly designed library and that such an installation need not be wasteful of energy. It is the substance of a talk given before a SCONUL meeting in November 1974.
Trade Unionism in Public Libraries
Authors: Maidment William R.
Published: March 2008

Before the abolition of the penny rate limitation in 1919 public librarians were outside the mainstream of local government. Between the wars they drew closer to colleagues in the local government union, Nalgo, and librarianship was recognized in the national scheme of conditions of service agreed in 1946. Subsequent improvements in the scheme proved the value of union membership for library staffs and most of them obeyed union instructions during a five-month dispute in 1974. A 'closed shop' would strengthen the union's influence but employers could also be firmer than they were in this dispute. There is a need to define more precisely the normal duties of library staff and to clarify the position of chief officers.
The Bodleian classification of manuscripts
Authors: Manley K.A.
Published: March 2008

In 1887 E. W. B. Nicholson devised a simple classocation scheme for the manuscripts in the Bodleian Library. His system, which is still employed, is described and compared with the British Museum's practice. The suggestion is made that this scheme, and particularly the use of size—division in notation, might, with modifications, be suitable for other libraries.
International Standard Bibliographical Description and the new ISBDs
Authors: Gorman Michael
Published: March 2008

A critique of the International Federation of Library Associations' programme of International Standard Bibliographical Descriptions, with special reference to the newly published ISBDs for Serials and Non-Book Materials.
Main entry: lynch pin or dodo?
Authors: Ayres F.H.
Published: March 2008

The functions of the catalogue are examined, and the way in which the main entry has evolved as a means of achieving these functions efficiently and effectively is considered. The changing situation created by the advent of the computer into cataloguing is described. It is suggested that all but one of the functions of the catalogue can be carried out in a machine environment without the aid of the main entry. Since choice of main entry is the most time-consuming and therefore most costly part of the cataloguing operation, a compromise solution is suggested based on main entry selection by computer.
Expert systems and library/information work
Authors: Clarke Ann , Cronin Blaise
Published: March 2008

This article discusses some possible applications for expert systems in the library/information field. Definitions of expert systems and descriptions of operational systems are included. A number of areas for future research are identified.
Data input standards and computerization at the University of Hull
Authors: Dyson Brian
Published: March 2008

An on-line database, containing three- quarters of a million records, was created basically for circulation purposes between 1979 and 1982. In order to maximize data entry speeds, quality control was minimal. This resulted in a high number of errors in the database, which were quantified in a recent survey. The survey showed that over 11 per cent of the records contained serious errors. The popularity of on-line public query facilities indicates a pressing need to tidy up the database, in order that it might become an on-line catalogue of acceptable standard.
The nature of the library and information workforce in the United Kingdom 1
Authors: Moore Nick , Kempson Elaine
Published: March 2008

A number of significant pieces of research have examined the charac teristics and nature of the library and information workforce. This article reviews the results of these surveys which relate to job satisfaction, the nature of duties, the value of educational qualifications, mobility and wastage, choice of career and the position of women.
Using RAAJ for real
Authors: Shackel B.
Published: March 2008

This article describes an individual case study using the BLEND References, Abstracts and Annotations Journal (RAAJ) for a literature search with limited time available. The results, giving relevance ratios between 25 and 84 per cent, depending upon the method of calculation, were considered very cost-effective by the user.
Practitioners as lecturers: benefits, advantages and practicalities
Authors: Barlow Richard , Green Andrew
Published: March 2008

Following the secondment of two public librarians to the Department of Library and Information Studies, Loughborough University of Technology, the academic staff of the department and relevant staff from the library authority were interviewed about their attitudes to such secondments. Reactions were generally favourable, though several problems were highlighted. The acceptability of such secondments was affirmed as a means of involving practitioners more closely with the education of young professionals, and of improving awareness within the profession of the educative process Recommendations are made for the organization of future secondments, based on the experience of those directly involved.
'Availability' as a performance measure for academic libraries
Authors: Revill D.H.
Published: March 2008

Measures of 'availability' are advocated as performance indicators for libraries within higher education and for purposes of interlibrary comparison. Previous work on such measures is discussed. The method adopted by Liverpool Polytechnic Library Service in studying the availability of stock is described. Results are given and discussed. A high level of availability was discovered. Figures produced provide a convenient way to summarize a great many data concerning a library's success at acquisition, failure through items being in circulation or in library processing, and the relative success of users in searching for known items.
Public libraries in the UK since 1945: a review article
Authors: Harrison Dean
Published: March 2008

A review of Philip Whiteman's recently published study of the McColvin Report and of the subsequent history of its proposals.
Employment and career surveys: some reflections on their value and relevance
Authors: Loughridge Brendan
Published: March 2008

A selection of surveys of job destinations, career progression and career patterns of former students of departments of library and information studies m the UK over the past 15 years is reviewed The value and validity of such reviews is questioned Lack of standardization m questions asked and selection of sample populations is noted Developments revealed by the surveys are summarized A decline m the number of students entenng public libraries and threats to the teaching of public librarianship, greater job mobility between types of library and between traditional library and information posts andjobs in the 'emerging market' are noted, as is continuing concern about the relevance of teaching to practice and the implementation of currriculum change and communication between teachers and practitioners.
Accuracy of information provision: the need for client-centred service
Authors: Burton Paul F.
Published: March 2008

A summary is provided of a number of unobtrusive tests which indicate that reference services in academic and public libraries supply correct answers to inquiries 55 per cent of the time only Library and information services (LIS) must improve their accuracy rate and need to adopt client-centred services in order to operate in a new information marketplace and to meet competition from other sources Information technology facilitates a redistribution of resources from technical services to front of house' operations, but it is suggested that staff who are moved from technical services are not always the most suitable for client-centred services There is a need for interpersonal and communication skills to be fostered by the schools of library and information studies and for focused in-house training
Adult continuing education and Irish public libraries
Authors: Ellis-King Deirdre
Published: March 2008

Reports the findings of an investigation of Irish public libraries to determine the nature and provision of adult continuing education. Points to the merits of a co-ordinated approach to library service, based on a significant population base, as being demonstrably effective in delivering adult continuing education services relative to the effectiveness of service delivery which is achieved, or achievable, by the smaller administrative units which provide the framework within which most Irish public library systems operate. Concludes that inad equate resources and the absence of a co-ordinated response to professional activities across administrative boundaries outside the Dublin area, militate against the practice of quantitative and qualitative public library activity to the degree which has been undertaken within the Dublin public library system.
Intra-organizational communication
Authors: Akintunde Stephen , Selbar Julna J.
Published: March 2008

Reports a study of the pattern of communication between library staff at two Nigerian university libraries: Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU) and Jos University (UNIJOS). Presents profiles of each library and discuss es the formal communication channels that exist at the two university libraries and which are instrumental in administrative decision making by ensuring that supervisors and decision makers get the right information needed. These include: library academic boards; library consultative committees; librarians' committees; sectional meetings; social services committees; staff general meetings; and departmental meetings. The degree to which informal information communication channels play an important role was deter mined by means of a questionnaire survey, which considered: length of ser vice ; gender distribution; number of people supervised; knowledge of library goals. Results indicated that the communication channels most frequently used in the two libraries were communication through heads of units, fol lowed by communication through the university librarian's office and staff general meetings. Further study of the process of communication via heads of units revealed that, while memo and face to face prevailed at ATBU, face to face was the main method of choice at UNIJOS. Notes the importance of the grapevine and gossip as means of communication and reports that it is unconsciously but consistently employed in both libraries. Presents a model for intraorganizational communication in university libraries, based on the findings of the study.
Information management in the oil and gas sector-the new credibility of outsourcing
Authors: Pryor Graham
Published: March 2008

Describes, as a case study, the efforts of a major oil and gas exploration company to outsource its library, information and records management functions, dispensing with the provision of services inhouse by handing over responsibility to an external body. The aims of the outsourcing were: reducing costs; placing non core business in an environment where it is core, thus providing the staff involved with greater career opportunities; and allowing the company to achieve greater organizational agility in times of continuous change and an unstable market. In a comparative second case study (Hamilton Oil UK), the company which finally took on the job as Hamilton's outsourcer turned out not to be an organization whose business was solely information management but an engineering contractor with greater specialized knowledge of the needs of oil and gas companies.
Surveying collections: the importance of condition assessment for preservation management
Authors: Matthews Graham
Published: March 2008

Discusses the various types of surveys than are carried out by libraries as part of their preservation and conservation exercises: ranging from checking items on issue or return to reports on single items made as part of a large scale formal condition survey. Considers the needs and significance of preserva tion surveys and some of the more important focuses of such surveys such as acid paper. Comments on the apparent dearth of surveys in UK libraries as reflected in the literature and considers some of the possible reasons for this state of affairs. A review of the literature of preservation leads to the con clusion that there may be more activity in this area, in UK libraries, than was originally believed to be the case. Concludes with a note on an integrated approach to library collection preservation surveys which presents the Oxford University Library as a good local example to which other libraries could aspire. Suggests that, since even sample surveys are expensive, a planned national sample survey, with representative regional and sectoral coverage, could be implemented to minimize costs and maximize usefulness.
Librarianship as a profession in Italy
Authors: Marshall Jennifer
Published: March 2008

Reports results of a study to determine whether librarianship is considered a profession in Italy and if it can really be said that the role of Italian librarians is a professional one. Concludes that, in a as far as the job requires specialization and a high level of training, the Italian government has yet to acknowledge the skill and learning necessary to become a librarian and continues not to recognize the diplomas awarded by universities. The lack of stimulus thus provided for the study of librarianship means that students who do enrol for courses generally choose to study few topics and have no intention of taking diplomas since the incentive is absent. The situation may change only when pressure from the European community forces the Italian library system to align itself with those of the rest of Europe and it becomes necessary to ensure that the same standards are attained by all.
A sociological study of public library use in Ankara, Turkey
Authors: Yilmaz BÜLent
Published: March 2008

Reports results of a sociological and demographic study of public library users in Ankara, Turkey, in order to determine the level of public use and to isolate the factors affecting this usage. A thorough survey of the history and statistics of Turkish public libraries is followed by the results of the user survey, employing the society survey method, involving 1800 users (aged six years and over) in three socioeconomic stratas. The study took usage of the library as the dependent variable and demographic and socioeconomic properties (age, sex, marital status, educational level, occupation, income level and geographic past) as the independent variables. Other socioeconomic factors (social status and social role) were also considered.
Filtering out Minorities
Authors: Stoker David
Published: March 2008

The issue of censorship, or filtering, on the Internet is under particular scrutiny in Europe, as illustrated by the Council of Europe’s publishing of the report Freedom of expression and the communication networks, prior to its discussion in November 1998 as one of the four ‘core issues’ at their international conference: ‘Libraries and Democracy’, in Strasbourg. Discusses the issues involved in Internet filtering and, while accepting that children should be protected from the grossly offensive and occasionally illegal materials on the Internet and World Wide Web (WWW), confesses a lack of certainty as to how this should be best achieved. Currently available filtering software and services are notoriously clumsy, sometimes blocking perfectly respectable sites and curtailing whole areas of legitimate enquiry for young people through the use of terms which might have sexual connotations. Acknowledges that the issue of filtering is more problematical in universities as its role does not include shielding students from the more unpleasant features of life. Concludes that the most difficult issue with respect to Web filtering is with regard to its use in public libraries, which caters for both adult and child users. Points to the strength of the Web in catering for ‘community information’, particularly for minorities, but acknowledges that the nature of certain minorities, such as the transgendered, could be regarded by some as making them candidates for filtering. The enforced extension of filtering software in public libraries could undermine its important role in catering for minorities and heighten the sense of isolation from which many such people now suffer.
Research into public libraries and ethnic minority communities in the UK, from Clough and Quarmby to Roach and Morrison
Authors: Elliott Pirkko
Published: March 2008

Reviews the provision of public library services to UK ethnic groups, in the light of the aims, methodology, findings and recommendations of 3 key research projects from 3 decades. Considers the impact of these reports, which were published in very different political and cultural climates. The reports were: Clough and Quarmby (1978) (Library Association); Elliott (1984) (Polytechnic of North London); and Roach and Morrison (1998) (BRIC Report 76 and 113). Examines the reports as research studies and points to similarities in them. Clough and Quarmby was the first to study public libraries and ethnic minorities nationally. Roach and Morrison focused on the relationship between public library services and communities characterized by ethnic diversity. Elliott’s research was based on London but also focused on the relationship between public libraries and ethnic communities. Concludes that library and information professionals need to take on board the recommendations of Roach and Morrison, translating them into policies and strategies to be acted upon. Clough and Quarmby and Elliott had only partial success in influencing the profession. What is needed is high profile action based on sound research into public libraries and cultural diversity, including monitoring and evaluation of existing provision and services.
The Benefits and Curses of Electronic Mail
Authors: Stoker David
Published: March 2008

Considers why the use of electronic mail has developed so rapidly over the last decade and its impacts (both positive and negative) upon the information professions. Describes the difficulties and frustrations experienced with early electronic mail systems, such as the need to learn a limited range of commands and a specific syntax; messages received lacking signature files and unintelligible return addresses; and difficulties in tracking down addresses of individuals. Points to the increased flexibility and reduced formality compared to traditional mail and its superiority to the telephone through the textual record which may be filed. Points to its disadvantages, which are becoming increasingly obvious, including: dissemination of computer viruses and virus hoaxes; unsolicited mail (sometimes offensive); lack of any form of electronically verifiable signature; potential lack of security; lack of associated semantic information (tone of voice, facial expression, gesticulation) leading to misunderstandings; and the increasing volume of communication. Concludes that electronic mail, with its many benefits and pitfalls, has not yet had time to mature and should be used with care.
Social identities and risk: expert and lay imaginations on pesticide use
Authors: Blok Anders , Jensen Mette , Kaltoft Pernille
Published: March 2008

Expert-based environmental and health risk regulation is widely believed to suffer from a lack of public understanding and legitimacy. On controversial issues such as genetically modified organisms and food-related chemicals, a “lay—expert discrepancy” in the assessment of risks is clearly visible. In this article, we analyze the relationship between scientific experts and ordinary lay citizens in the context of risks from pesticide usage in Denmark. Drawing on concepts from the “sociology of scientific knowledge” (SSK), we contend that differences in risk perception must be understood at the level of social identities. On the basis of qualitative interviews with citizens and experts, respectively, we focus on the multiple ways in which identities come to be employed in actors' risk accounts. Empirically, we identify salient characteristics of “typical” imagined experts and lay-people, while arguing that these conceptions vary identifiably in-between four groups of citizens and experts. On the basis of our findings, some implications for bridging the lay—expert discrepancy on risk issues are sketched out.
Do Abortion Attitudes Lead to Party Switching?
Authors: Killian Mitchell , Wilcox Clyde
Published: March 2008

The notion that issues and ideology can move partisanship remains controversial. The authors explore the stronger claim that issues can lead people to switch political parties and whether the effect of abortion attitudes is asymmetrical (i.e., abortion attitudes may influence party switching in only one direction). They show that in several short-term National Election Studies panels, pro-life Democrats were significantly more likely than other Democrats to become Republicans, but pro-choice Republicans were not likely to become Democrats. However, using panel data over a long time frame, 1982 to 1997, the authors also demonstrate that the cumulative effect of abortion attitudes led pro-life Democrats and pro-choice Republicans to switch parties.
Child Maltreatment Among Immigrant Chinese Families: Characteristics and Patterns of Placement
Authors: Rhee Siyon , Chang Janet , Weaver Dale , Wong Danette
Published: March 2008

This study examined the characteristics of child abuse among immigrant Chinese families in Los Angeles. The study also identified some of the critical variables contributing to the selection of one of two types of placement (in home or out of home) by the child protective services system. Data were obtained from 221 active Chinese case files maintained by the Asian Pacific Unit of the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services. The extracted data were presented with logistic regression analysis to examine the odds of children being removed from the home. The most prevalent type of maltreatment experienced by the Chinese victims was physical abuse, and the rate of physical abuse was higher than in the general child welfare population. Chinese children are less likely to be removed from their homes than are non-Chinese children. Implications for practice include the need for focusing services on Chinese parent education and family preservation.
Increasing Abused Children's Access to Evidence-Based Treatment: Diffusion via Parents as Consumers
Authors: Gully Kevin J. , Price Brittany L. , Johnson Marilyn K.
Published: March 2008

This investigation evaluated an experimental protocol employed by nurses with parents to increase access to evidence-based mental health treatment for children who are suspected victims of abuse. The protocol was compared with typical services during forensic medical examinations, first in a quasi-experimental design, then as a randomized controlled trial. In both studies, the protocol produced a significant increase in parental reports of having discussed evidence-based treatment during a mental health appointment within 1 month after the forensic medical examination. Likewise, both studies showed that the protocol produced a significant increase in parent-reported satisfaction with the forensic medical examination. Similarly, nurses viewed the protocol favorably. These findings suggest that this approach may be sustainable as a standard component of forensic medical examinations for children who are suspected victims of abuse.
The Personal Tax Exemption and Married Women's Birth Spacing in the United States
Authors: Huang Jr-Tsung
Published: March 2008

In this article, several specifications of the piecewise-linear segment hazard rate model with exponential distribution are estimated to investigate the effect of the personal tax exemption (PTE) on married women's birth spacing. Using a sample collected from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics, the estimation results from the hazard rate model confirm that married couples with a high PTE tend to shorten the length of the second and third birth intervals. Furthermore, the hazard rate increases until four years after the preceding birth and then decreases in the case of the third birth, although this is not so for the second birth.
How Privatizations Affect the Level of Perceived Corruption
Authors: Arikan G. Gulsun
Published: March 2008

State economic enterprises' decisions are very open to manipulations by bureaucrats and politicians, making the public sector a potential breeding ground for corrupt activities of both monetary and non-monetary forms. Consequently, privatizations would be expected to have a remedial role. Getting rid of the state's productive assets, however, might not reduce corruption if it fails to sever the official—firm connection. The process of privatization, moreover, is notorious for causing corruption. It is up to observation to determine the exact effect of privatizations on corruption. This article attempts to make the first formal, empirical assessment of this relationship, using data made available by the wave of privatizations in the nineties. Results suggest that higher privatization leads to an increase in corruption.
Agglomerations and Strategic Tax Competition
Authors: Hill Brian C.
Published: March 2008

Evidence outside the tax arena suggests that firms earn rents in the presence of agglomerations, which could lessen the mobility of firms in the agglomeration. If so, then governments might be able to extract a portion of rents from businesses through higher tax rates without as much concern about capital fleeing the jurisdiction. Strategic interaction may also be affected by the presence of agglomerations if capital mobility is affected. This article empirically examines how local governments set sales and property tax rates, while considering tax competition and one specific measure of agglomerations. Results indicate that local governments behave as strategic complements, impose higher tax rates in jurisdictions with more establishments (or urbanization economies), and are less likely to mimic other governments' tax policies if their jurisdiction is agglomerated.
A Case Report of the Use of Nanocrystalline Silver Dressing in the Management of Acute Surgical Site Wound Infected With MRSA to Prevent Cutaneous Necrosis Following Revision Surgery
Authors: Bhattacharyya Mayukh , Bradley Helen
Published: March 2008

The authors report the use of nanocrystalline silver (Acticoat 7, Smith and Nephew, London, UK) in an acute surgical wound to prevent localized skin necrosis due to infection, thereby avoiding skin grafting as a secondary procedure. Two patients were successfully treated with Acticoat 7 dressings without using systemic antimicrobials after developing methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infection in the surgical site. Despite a history of smoking and incision through scar tissues, the wound did not progress into deep infection nor was there recurrence of infection at 2 years follow-up. The intention was to use this particular dressing to assess the effect of silver on infected keratinocytes in an acute wound environment. It is possible that the use of Acticoat 7 may reduce the bacterial loading at the wound site, thereby decreasing a propensity for skin necrosis caused by the infective process. This case report demonstrates that the acute surgical wound with impending cutaneous necrosis due to localized infection may be treated without oral antimicrobials.
The Lack of Reliability of Clinical Examination in the Diagnosis of Wound Infection: Preliminary Communication
Authors: Serena Thomas E. , Hanft Jason R. , Snyder Robert
Published: March 2008

The diagnosis of infection in chronic wounds is challenging. Clinicians tend to rely on the classic signs and the symptoms. Quantitative tissue biopsy, the most accurate method, is rarely used because it is expensive, invasive, and difficult to perform. A recently completed clinical trial evaluating collagen/oxidized regenerated cellulose/antimicrobial matrix versus standard of care in venous leg ulcerations was reviewed. Patients with infected venous leg ulcers by clinical examination were excluded. In fact, none of the subjects in the 2 arms of the study had target ulcers that appeared to be infected at any time during the study. Quantitative biopsies of the ulcers were obtained and compared with investigator evaluation. In all, 14 of 49 subjects (28%) had bacterial counts greater than 105 or β-hemolytic streptococcus despite the lack of clinical signs of infection. This analysis suggests that clinical examination is unreliable in the diagnosis of wound infection in venous leg ulcerations.