bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dual Entrainment by Light and Food in the Svalbard Ptarmigan (Lagopus mutus hyperboreus)
Authors: Reierth Eirik , Stokkan Karl-Arne
Published: April 2009

The possibility that feeding may act as a zeitgeber has been investigated in captive Svalbard ptarmigan by recording feeding or food-searching activity (FA) in birds given periodic access to food (PAF) under light-dark (LD) cycles or in continuous bright (LL) or dim light (DD) conditions. Except during LL, anticipatory attempts to feed always occurred prior to the food access interval with a relatively stable phase relationship to the interval. There was always a second bout of feeding toward the end of the food access interval, which apparently corresponds to the afternoon bout of feeding, seen under LD and ad libitum access to food. During PAF, this afternoon peak of activity disappeared. When the LD cycle was phase delayed while restricted access to food remained unchanged, the afternoon peak of feeding was temporarily reestablished but was transiently shifted forward to reattain its position within the food access interval. After termination of PAF, the afternoon bout of feeding was reestablished through phase-delaying transients, with an initial phase corresponding to the previous food access interval. The results suggest that FA of Svalbard ptarmigan is controlled by 2 separate circadian oscillators, both of which can be entrained by light and food: a putative morning oscillator, which controls the activity associated with the beginning of the photoperiod or the food access interval, and a putative evening oscillator, which induces increased activity toward the end of these intervals. In their natural environment at very high latitudes, Svalbard ptarmigan deposit fat when the day length declines rapidly in autumn. Entrained by feeding, they appear to enjoy a longer daily period of food-searching activity than if day length was the only zeitgeber.
Circadian Food Anticipation Persists in Capsaicin Deafferented Rats
Authors: Davidson Alec J. , Stephan Friedrich K.
Published: April 2009

The feeding-entrained circadian oscillator (FEO) organizes locomotor activity and other variables to anticipate daily timed meals. Whether the biological substrate for the FEO is in the central nervous system or in the periphery, there must be communication between the gut and the brain to result in a behavioral output. To investigate potential neural routes of communication, rats with suprachiasmatic lesions were given systemic capsaicin (total dose: 100 mg/kg, ip) to produce visceral deafferentation. Deafferentation was confirmed using the phenyl-p-benzoquinone stretch test and the corneal irritation test. A 3-h meal was made available at the same time each day while wheel running was recorded for several weeks. Results indicated that rats with capsaicin lesions were somewhat more active overall and during nonanticipation times, but the onset time and the amount of anticipatory wheel running did not differ from vehicle-treated controls. In addition, reentrainment following a phase delay of mealtime and the persistence of anticipatory activity during food deprivation were similar between the groups. Since capsaicin deafferentation and subdiaphragmatic vagotomy do not prevent food-anticipatory activity, it is likely that communication between the gut and the brain is accomplished via a humoral route.
Retinal GABAA Receptors Participate in the Regulation of Circadian Responses to Light
Authors: Della Maggiore Valeria , Ralph Martin R.
Published: April 2009

A role for retinal [.gamma]-aminobutyric acid Type A (GABAA) receptors in the regulation of circadian responses to light was examined. Intraocular injections of the GABAA antagonist, bicuculline, were performed during the early (Circadian Time [CT] 13.5) and late subjective night (CT 20), followed by a light pulse. Bicuculline significantly decreased the magnitude of phase delays induced by light to 65%, whereas it had no effect on phase advances. To explore the nature of the inhibition elicited by bicuculline, an intensity-response curve was performed. Intraocular injections of bicuculline inhibited phase delays only when induced by high-saturating light illuminances (20 and 100 lux). No effect was observed at light intensities [.lessequal] 5 lux. These results suggest that retinal GABAAreceptors modulate the responsivity of the circadian system to light.
Serotonin Modulation of Calcium Transients in Cells in the Suprachiasmatic Nucleus
Authors: Flett Jennifer , Colwell Christopher S.
Published: April 2009

Information about environmental lighting conditions is conveyed to the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), at least in part, via a glutamatergic fiber pathway originating in the retina, known as the retinohypothalamic tract (RHT). Previous work indicates that serotonin (5HT) can inhibit this pathway, although the underlying mechanisms are unknown. The authors became interested in the possibility that 5HT can inhibit the glutamatergic regulation of Ca2+ in SCN neurons and, by this mechanism, modulate light-induced phase shifts of the circadian system. To start to examine this hypothesis, optical techniques were used to measure Ca2+ levels in SCN cells in a brain slice preparation. First, it was found that 5HT produced a reversible and significant inhibition of Ca2+ transients evoked by synaptic stimulation. Next, it was found that 5HT did not alter the magnitude or duration of Ca2+ transients evoked by the bath application of glutamate or N-methyl-D-aspartate acid (NMDA) in the presence of tetrodotoxin (TTX). The authors feel that the simplest explanation for these results is that 5HT can act presynaptically at the RHT/SCN synaptic connection to inhibit the release of glutamate. The demonstration that 5HT can have a dramatic modulatory action on synaptic-evoked Ca2+ transients measured in SCN neurons adds support to the notion that the serotonergic innervation of the SCN may function to regulate environmental input to the circadian system. In addition, it was found that the administration of higher concentrations of 5HT can increase Ca2+in at least a subpopulation of SCN neurons. This effect of 5HT was concentration dependent and blocked by a broad-spectrum 5HT antagonist (metergoline). In addition, both TTX and the [.gamma]-amino-N-butyric acid (GABA) receptor blocker bicuculline inhibited the 5HT-induced Ca2+ transients. Therefore, the interpretation of this data is that 5HT can act within the SCN to alter GABAergic activity and, by this mechanism, cause changes in intracellular Ca2+. It is also suggested that this 5HT-induced Ca2+ increase might play a role in 5HT-induced phase shifts of the SCN circadian oscillator.
Revised Limit Cycle Oscillator Model of Human Circadian Pacemaker
Authors: Jewett Megan E. , Forger Daniel B. , Kronauer Richard E.
Published: April 2009

In 1990, Kronauer proposed a mathematical model of the effects of light on the human circadian pacemaker. This study presents several refinements to Kronauer's original model of the pacemaker that enable it to predict more accurately the experimental results from a number of different studies of the effects of the intensity, timing, and duration of light stimuli on the human circadian pacemaker. These refinements include the following: The van der Pol oscillator from Kronauer’s model has been replaced with a higher order limit cycle oscillator so that the system’s amplitude recovery is slower near the singularity and faster near the limit cycle; the phase and amplitude of the circadian rhythm in sensitivity to light from Kronauer’s model has been refined so that the peak sensitivity to light on the limit cycle now occurs 4 h before the core body temperature minimum (CBTmin) and is three times as great as the minimum sensitivity on the limit cycle; the critical phase (at which type 1 phase response curves [PRCs] can be distinguished from type 0 PRCs) that occurs at CBTmin now corresponds to 0.8 h after the minimum of x ( xmin) in this refined model rather than to the exact timing of xmin as in Kronauer’s model; a direct effect of light on circadian period was incorporated into the model such that as light intensity increases, the period decreases, which is in accordance with Aschoff’s rule.
Thyrotoxic Storm
Authors: Stathatos Nikolaos , Wartofsky Leonard
Published: April 2009

Thyrotoxic storm is a syndrome of exaggerated thyrotoxicosis with systemic decompensation seen in 1-2% of hospital admissions for thyrotoxicosis. The diagnosis is based on recognition of typical cardinal manifestations, but even when diagnosed and treated, mortality rates are high. Results of thyroid function tests may be no more abnormal than those seen in uncomplicated thyrotoxicosis. Often, there is a history of partially treated thyrotoxicosis, and/or decompensation related to a precipitating event such as infection, stroke, pulmonary embolism, or radioiodine therapy. Treatment must be aggressive and includes volume repletion with i.v. glucose and saline, and pressor agents may be needed. Patients belong in an intensive care unit, with a cooling blanket for hyperpyrexia. Appropriate cardiac medications are employed to control ventricular rate in those with atrial fibrillation. The thyroid is blocked by large doses of antithyroid agent. In patients unable to swallow, tablets can be crushed and given by nasogastric tube or per rectum. After antithyroid drugs are started, stable iodine as Lugol's solution is given to block further hormone release from the gland. Sodium ipodate can be used instead of iodine and has the advantage of inhibiting conversion of T4 to T3. In severe cases, thyroid hormone may be removed from the circulation by peritoneal dialysis or plasmapheresis, and cholestyramine resin may be used to bind T4 and T3 within the gastrointestinal tract. β-adrenergic antagonists such as propranolol are given, or the very short-acting β-adrenergic blocker, esmolol, has also been used with success. A Swan-Ganz catheter is used to monitor central hemodynamics, especially in patients receiving high-dose propranolol, pressors, digoxin, diuretics, and fluids. Large doses of dexamethasone have been given based on presumed increased glucocorticoid requirements in thyrotoxicosis and because adrenal reserve may be reduced. Therapy must be continued until a normal metabolic state is achieved, at which time iodine is progressively withdrawn and plans made for definitive treatment.
Arginine Vasopressin for Refractory Distributive Shock in Two Adolescents
Authors: Tobias Joseph D.
Published: April 2009

Arginine vasopressin is a nine amino acid peptide, most commonly known as antidiuretic hormone. Recent investigations in the areas of cardiopulmonary resuscitation and the treatment of distributive shock have suggested its possible therapeutic potential. Despite increasing experience in the adult population, there is limited experience with vasopressin administration in pediatric patients. The author reports the use of vasopressin in the treatment of refractory distributive shock in two adolescents. Previous reports of its use and potential therapeutic applications are reviewed.
Medical Disorders Related to Diving
Authors: Bove Alfred A.
Published: April 2009

Exposure to the underwater environment is associated with several unique disorders that may require recompression in a hyperbaric chamber. Increasing pressure during descent reduces the volume of the paranasal sinuses and middle ear, which, if not properly equalized, will sustain injury due to barotrauma. Barotrauma of the inner ear results in vertigo, tinnitus, and often permanent hearing loss. During ascent, expanding gas can produce lung injury accompanied by pneumothorax, mediastinal and subcutaneous emphysema, injection of air into the pulmonary veins, and arterial air embolism to the brain. Divers with pulmonary barotrauma often present with unconsciousness, seizures, or other evidence of cerebral dysfunction. Rapid treatment with recompression often reverses the cerebral deficits. Air embolism lesions are usually diffuse, in contradistinction to a stroke which usually follows the distribution of a single cerebral artery. Decompression sickness is a disorder caused by evolution of supersaturated dissolved gas in tissues and blood following exposure to increased pressure. Protocols for avoiding excess supersaturation during ascent from depth have been available for more than 100 years, and diving is considered safe when established decompression schedules are followed. Decompression sickness causes pain in the joints of the upper and lower extremities, and can injure the spinal cord. Paralysis, paresthesias, sensory loss, and bowel and bladder paralysis accompany spinal cord injury. Treatment involves recompression and oxygen. Platelet inhibitors and other anti-inflammatory drugs are also useful. A diving disorder must be considered in any patient with a neurologic syndrome, vertigo, hearing loss, or joint pain following diving.
A typical Stunned Myocardium Caused by Severe Pulmonary Dysfunction
Authors: Kobayashi Atsuko , Inoue Shizuka , Ueno Hiroshi , Hashimoto Satoru
Published: April 2009

We present the case of a 71-year-old Japanese man suffering from severe dyspnea who showed abnormal left ventricular motion in cardiac echogram with ST-T elevation in electrocardiogram, which at first was misdiagnosed as an acute myocardial infarction. Coronary angiography showed neither coronary obstructions nor spasms. The symptoms were transient and the patient soon recovered. We speculate that it is a specific type of atypical stunned myocardium caused by the great stress of severe pulmonary dysfunction.
Assessing Outcomes in Critical Care
Authors: Watson R. Scott , Angus Derek C.
Published: April 2009

The need to assess a range of outcomes in intensive care is increasingly important as more patients survive episodes of acute, severe illness. In this article, we discuss the relevance of commonly studied outcomes and the strengths and weaknesses of the techniques used to measure them. Short-term mortality is no longer the only important consideration in the evaluation of a therapy. The assessment of longer-term mortality, morbidity, and patient-centered outcomes is necessary. Randomized, controlled trials (RCTs) are frequently adapted to incorporate outcome measures that include cost and quality of life. In addition, observational studies have become more sophisticated and are being used to evaluate issues not amenable to study by RCTs. These developments will provide more comprehensive assessments of critical care interventions and will ultimately enhance the health of the patients we serve.
Swallowing With a Tracheostomy Tube in Place: Does Cuff Inflation Matter?
Authors: Davis Daniel G. , Bears Sean , Barone James E. , Corvo Philip R. , Tucker James B.
Published: April 2009

Patients undergoing tracheostomy may recover enough to be weaned from mechanical ventilation but continue to need the tracheostomy tube for airway toilet. When feeding a patient with a tracheostomy tube in place, it is unclear if the cuff should be inflated or not. This study was undertaken to determine whether cuff status has any impact on aspiration of feedings. Selected patients with tracheostomies who were weaned from the ventilator underwent fluoroscopic swallowing studies with the tracheostomy cuff inflated and deflated. Patients were fluoroscopically observed swallowing contrast-enhanced thin liquids, thick liquids, pureed food, and solid food. Each patient was to have undergone a total of 8 different swallowing studies. A radiologist blinded to cuff status was present to assess the degree of aspiration, which was graded from 0 (no aspiration) to 4 (aspiration of more than 10% of the ingested material with coughing). The study included 12 patients who had a total of 91 different swallowing studies. The full battery of eight swallowing studies could not be completed on every patient. When the cuff was inflated, the aspiration rate was 2.7 times higher (17.8% versus 6.5%). Logistic regression analysis revealed that cuff status and type of substance ingested were both predictors of aspiration ( P= 0.032 and P= 0.025, respectively). Although the sample size was small, the nearly threefold increase in the aspiration rate associated with cuff inflation suggests feeding with the cuff deflated may be the preferred method. Solid foods are the safest. Swallowing studies may be the best method of assessing which substances will be tolerated by an individual patient.
Making Computational Social Science Effective
Authors: Bankes Steven , Lempert Robert , Popper Steven
Published: April 2009

There has been significant recent interest in Agent Based Modeling in many social sciences including economics, sociology, anthropology, political science, and game theory. This article describes three problems that need to be addressed in order for such models to become effective tools for formulating new social theory and informing policy debates and suggests approaches to meeting them. These issues are computational epistemology, research methodology, and software technology. These innovations augment Agent Based Modeling to create an effective new tool base to help better understand complex social systems.
Confronting Surprise
Authors: Lempert Robert , Popper Steven , Bankes Steven
Published: April 2009

Surprise takes many forms, all tending to disrupt plans and planning systems. Reliance by decision makers on formal analytic methodologies can increase susceptibility to surprise as such methods commonly use available information to develop single-point forecasts or probability distributions of future events. In doing so, traditional analyses divert attention from information potentially important to understanding and planning for effects of surprise. The authors propose employing computer-assisted reasoning methods in conjunction with simulation models to create large ensembles of plausible future scenarios. This framework supports a robust adaptive planning (RAP) approach to reasoning under the conditions of complexity and deep uncertainty that normally defeat analytic approaches. The authors demonstrate, using the example of planning for long-term global sustainability, how RAP methods may offer greater insight into the vulnerabilities inherent in several types of surprises and enhance decision makers’ ability to construct strategies that will mitigate or minimize the effects of surprise.
The Social Quantum Model of Dissonance
Authors: Lawless W. F. , Schwartz Michael
Published: April 2009

Distinguishing between a group and the aggregate of individuals who compose the group remains an unsolved theoretical problem. Luce and Raiffa concluded that traditional theory based on the perspective of a rational individual cannot distinguish between these two utilities, precluding an analytical model. The obstacle to advancing beyond Luce and Raiffa with multiple-agent systems, including those with “swarm” intelligence, is that they lack the key ingredients of the social interaction, specifically the conjugate uncertainties of action and observation. But based on Bohr’s quantum theory, to our knowledge the only complete model of the interaction, the authors have discovered significant differences between human groups and their constituents, in the process concluding that competition functions to create information and reduce the power of ideology, social values not previously recognized. The authors extend their prior research to build an analytical model by considering the multifaceted ramifications, for social life, of argumentation.
Creating Choosers
Authors: Schneider Mark , Buckley Jack
Published: April 2009

In this article, the authors examine the extent to which electronic information about schools is an effective means of facilitating informed school choice. Using data gathered from a web site providing information to parents in Washington, D.C., the authors find that the digital divide is a potent barrier against widespread use of this information, despite its importance and potential to bridge the “content gap.” Among those parents who do use the site, however, the authors find that the amount of information that the parents view increases the probability of attempting to change their child’s school.
Citizen Perceptions of Community Policing
Authors: Ballard Chet , Prine Rudy
Published: April 2009

Internet surveys alone and mail surveys alone display limitations in terms of cost, convenience, sampling, representativeness, and flexibility that neither method completely resolves. The authors were asked to design a survey that would measure resident perceptions of community policing in a small city in south Georgia. The fact that city residents were offered low-price Internet access as part of the city’s range of local services gave the authors the opportunity to employ both a mail survey and an Internet survey posted on the city’s web page. They examined the effect of the two methods on respondents’ survey answers and compared the Internet and mail responses on response rate and comparability of responses on their community-policing indicators. Method of data collection did not significantly affect answers given. Those inclined to complete and return mail surveys sponsored by community institutions do not differ substantially from those who tend to respond by Internet.
Children’s Computer Use in the Home
Authors: Orleans Myron , Laney Margaret C.
Published: April 2009

The researchers examined social interactions of children using home computers. The main concern was whether computers tended to isolate youthful users. Adult anxiety regarding the damaging effects of computers on children was assessed. Parental involvement, orientation to computers, and gender were the main independent variables. A case study approach was employed to gather observational data regarding the variety of interactional networks that framed the computer experience of 32 participants. The findings challenged the notion that heavy computer users experience social isolation. It was found that the interpersonal lives and computer activities of children reflexively amplified each other and that boys were more likely to socialize in relation to computers than were girls. The findings were explained as consequences of context and gender-based differentiated styles of world-creating activity. Recommendations were made to parents and teachers encouraging a less apprehensive and more integrative/developmental view of the social effects of children’s computer use.
Anthropology
Authors: Barkin Gareth , Stone Glenn Davis
Published: April 2009

A survey of anthropology projects on the web finds little overall evolution of the field’s scholarly products to capitalize on the medium’s potential. However, a few of the most recent innovations appear to provide a glimpse of changes soon to come. Several new forms of nonrefereed scholarship have appeared, and an important theme running through them is the blurring of conventional boundaries. Within the refereed literature, few journals have ventured beyond the delivery of facsimile journal pages in portable document format (PDF) files. An important exception is the just-published online version of Current Anthropology, which offers numerous enhancements possible only through the web.
Public Administration
Authors: Scavo Carmine , Shi Yuhang
Published: April 2009

This article looks at the intersection of the two paradigm shifts of the information revolution and reinventing government (REGO) by examining the role of information technology (IT) in the REGO movement. The authors question three implicit assumptions made by REGO adherents about the role of IT in REGO: that IT is necessary for REGO to take place, that the actual adoption and increased use of IT is an indicator of the success of REGO, and that the adoption of IT is something that is both self-evident and simple. After reviewing the recent record of federal program’s adoption and use of IT, we find some empirical support for the first assumption but find the second and third to be particularly problematic. The authors conclude that REGO is a process rather than an outcomeŠmuch like the adoption of IT in government. By refocusing attention on both of these as processes rather than outcomes, the important and essential role of IT in REGO is more carefully identified.
Automated Content Analysis of Multiple-Choice Test Item Banks
Authors: Ford John M. , Stetz Thomas A. , Bott Marilyn M. , O’Leary Brian S.
Published: April 2009

Test item review is a specialized type of content analysis conducted to identify and correct test item flaws early in the test development process. Test item reviewers not only examine the targeted content of a test but also remove inappropriate content and balance various types of incidental content. An automated content analysis implementation of Hiller’s verbal ambiguity scales and Laffal’s General Concept Dictionary of English was used to examine 576 multiple-choice test items before and after test item review and revision by experienced item editors. Hiller’s scales detected some problems with item clarity. Laffal’s categories detected content imbalance between test forms but not inappropriate item content.
A Proposed Methodology for Studying the Function and Effectiveness of Party and Candidate Web Sites
Authors: Gibson Rachel , Ward Stephen
Published: April 2009

The growth of party and candidate activity on the World Wide Web over the past 5 years has provoked much comment and criticism. Although initially most assessments were descriptive and anecdotal, more recent studies have taken a more systematic and quantitative approach to this topic. This article builds on the existing literature by developing a coding scheme that addresses two basic questions applicable to all political Web sites: (a) what the purpose of the sites are, and (b) how effectively they deliver their contents. In doing so, this article attempts to standardize the study of party Web sites and to promote the growth of cross-national and longitudinal comparative research in this area.
Testing Hypotheses on Qualitative Data
Authors: Hesse-Biber Sharlene , Dupuis Paul
Published: April 2009

HyperRESEARCH is a computer-assisted software program for analyzing qualitative data. This article describes the analysis strategy of the hypothesis-testing component of the program. The Hypothesis Tester allows a researcher to generate a theoretical framework inductively from their data, or to test out a preexisting set of theoretical ideas on a given data set deductively. The hypothesis-testing component of HyperRESEARCH provides a semiformal mechanism for theory building and hypothesis testing. It provides for validity and reliability checks by having the researcher describe the inference process used to draw conclusions from the data. The article discusses the theoretical and data analysis implications of using the Hypothesis Tester for qualitative research. Future additions to the program are presented that promise to revolutionize the way that qualitative research is conducted.
Data Warehousing and Decision Support at the National Agricultural Statistics Service
Authors: Yost Mickey
Published: April 2009

Easy access to large collections of historical survey and census data and the associated metadata that describes them has long been the goal of researchers and analysts. Solutions to problems such as understanding the behavior of current survey data, respondent burden, improved statistical techniques, and data quality are often found in the careful analysis of historical data. Many questions have gone unanswered because the data were not readily available, access was limited, metadata were not well defined, or query performance was intolerably slow. This article describes the database modeling techniques that permit end users fast and easy access to large amounts of microlevel data contained in different data systems and from different time frames. Also, techniques for tracking metadata changes and standardization are discussed. A generalized dimensional model is presented that can be used for any census or survey to track the full history of the data series.
Privacy Advocacy Groups Versus Intel
Authors: Leizerov Sagi
Published: April 2009

In the wake of 1999, three privacy advocacy groups waged a campaign against Intel’s controversial launch of the Pentium III® processor. Approached as a case study, the conflict between the privacy groups and Intel demonstrates how social movements manipulate the Internet to their advantage when fighting powerful organizations. This article follows the presentation of each of the five strategic dimensions in Charles Euchner’s revised model—time, place, force, mind, and culture—with the Internet tactics used by the privacy advocates in the realm of each dimension. After a description of all the new cyber-protest tactics used in this campaign, an evaluation of both the groups’ success and Intel’s handling of the crisis is provided. The events surrounding the Melissa virus are mentioned due to important similarities and differences between the two cases. Concluding the article is a discussion of how the new protesting capabilities in the hands of social movements change existing paradigms for them as well as for their adversaries.
Mass Media Use and Social Life Among Internet Users
Authors: Robinson John P. , Kestnbaum Meyer , Neustadtl Alan , Alvarez Anthony
Published: April 2009

The mass media use and social life of heavy, light, and nonusers of the Internet and personal computers are compared based on a fall 1998 survey of 3,993 nationally representative respondents age 18 and older. As in previous surveys, no significant or consistent evidence of time displacement of such media or social activities was found. Indeed, Internet users showed signs of more active social lives than non-users. These results reinforce the conclusion that personal computer/Internet use may have more in common with time-enhancing home appliances such as the telephone than they do with the time-displacing technology of television.
Internet by Proxy
Authors: Harris Kimberly D. , Campbell James D.
Published: April 2009

This study investigated utilization of computer-based telemedicine in three rural Missouri counties. Participating health care agencies were given computers and access to an Internet-based workstation that provided e-mail and World Wide Web (WWW) services. Ten rural practices from three Missouri counties were profiled. Utilization data for e-mail messages sent and received, along with the number of WWW pages accessed, were collected through a proxy server. Results showed that most physicians received more messages than they sent and utilized the WWW more than they did e-mail. Moreover, physicians connected to a tertiary care center and who currently use extenders in their practice are more likely to use Internet technology, even if it is through a proxy user such as a nurse practitioner or office staff.
Web Surveys
Authors: Crawford Scott D. , Couper Mick P. , Lamias Mark J.
Published: April 2009

Web surveys appear to be attaining lower response rates than equivalent mail surveys. One reason may be that there is currently little information on effective strategies for increasing response to Internet-based surveys. Web users are becoming more impatient with high-burden Web interactions. The authors examined the decision to respond to a Web survey by embedding a series of experiments in a survey of students at the University of Michigan. A sample of over 4,500 students was sent an e-mail invitation to participate in a Web survey on affirmative action policies. Methodological experiments included using a progress indicator, automating password entry, varying the timing of reminder notices to nonrespondents, and using a prenotification report of the anticipated survey length. Each of these experiments was designed to vary the burden (perceived or real) of the survey request. Results of these experiments are presented.
The Social Science Dream Machine
Authors: Ryssevik Jostein , Musgrave Simon
Published: April 2009

The technologies to build virtual data libraries, in which large amounts of statistical data are made easily available to broad and diverse groups of users, are now at hand. NESSTAR (Networked Social Science Tools and Resources), a joint development project between the Norwegian Social Science Data Services, UK Data Archive, and the Danish Data Archive, is an example of how these emerging technologies can be used. The project aims to develop a common interface on the Internet with the data holdings of a large number of providers and disseminators of statistical information worldwide. By means of NESSTAR, users are able to (a) locate multiple data sources across national boundaries, (b) browse detailed metadata describing these data, (c) analyze and visualize data online, and (d) download the appropriate subsets of data in one of a number of formats for local use. The system includes advanced user authentication procedures to prevent unauthorized use of data.
An Introduction to Computerized Experience Sampling in Psychology
Authors: Barrett Lisa Feldman , Barrett Daniel J.
Published: April 2009

Experience-sampling procedures enable researchers to record the momentary thoughts, feelings, and actions of people in daily life. The authors explain how palmtop computers have expanded the repertoire of experience-sampling techniques and reduced or eliminated some traditional problems with pen-and-paper methods. As a running example, they illustrate the capabilities of the Experience Sampling Program (ESP), their configurable, freely distributable software environment for designing and running experience-sampling studies on Palm Pilots and Windows CE palmtops.
Community Networks or Networked Communities?
Authors: Tonn Bruce E. , Zambrano Persides , Moore Sheila
Published: April 2009

The article provides an overview of the state of the art in community networks. Forty community networks were reviewed. A protocol was developed to guide the evaluation of each site. The protocol covered the types of information currently provided and whether the network contributes to the social capital of the community. It was found that communities are now served by several types of Web sites: nonprofit community networks, those administered by local governments, and various commercial sites. It does not appear that either individually or in combination the Web sites are working to strengthen the social capital of the communities they serve. It is recommended that a community’s information networking organizations work together to provide integrated resources and programs that foster community dialogue and help people better meet their citizenship responsibilities, as well as up-to-date information on community events and real-time information about traffic, weather, and the like.
Dynamics of Status Symbols and Social Complexity
Authors: Pedone Roberto , Conte Rosaria
Published: April 2009

In this article, a symbolic version of the Simmel effect has been explored via computer simulation. The Simmel effect refers to the dynamics of status symbols in hierarchically ordered societies. This phenomenon was highlighted by the sociologist Georg Simmel, when he attempted to explain the rapid diffusion and decline of fashion. Simmel hypothesized that the instability of fashion results from the combined action of imitation of higher status members and distinction from those belonging to lower statuses. To test Simmel’s hypothesis, the authors implemented a simulation model: the symbolic Simmel model (SySM), wherein a set of artificial agents hierarchically ordered apply in different combination the rules of imitation and distinction in the common task of sharing symbols. The findings support the view that the Simmel condition allows for a variable or unstable fate of symbols: The success of status symbols starts to decline as soon as they become dominant.
Toward a Sociogenetic Solution
Authors: Satterfield Teresa
Published: April 2009

Creole languages are often a point of contention for theoretical linguistics. Broadly defined, creoles result from an amalgamation of two or more languages, when speakers of differing mother tongues need rudimentary communication during economic or social transactions. Creolization occurs if the “invented” system becomes the native language of the speech community. There are several hypotheses for how biological linguistic properties and social contact each bear on the formation of creoles; however, until recently, no reliable method for testing these complex interactions existed. Implementing SWARM 2.1.1, the current model consists of a multiagent population drawn from historical records of Surinamese sugar cane plantations. Each agent in this artificial society is endowed with a demographic profile and linguistic parameters. Three experiments using the SWARM model are described. The results provide viable motivation for advancing a “sociogenetic” solution for the emergence of prototypical creole languages.
Toward Strength and Stability
Authors: North Michael J.
Published: April 2009

Complex Adaptive Systems (CASs) can be applied to investigate complex infrastructures and infrastructure interdependencies. Agent-based modeling (ABM) is a new CAS-based approach to the construction of models. The CAS agents within the Spot Market Agent Research Tool (SMART) and Flexible Agent Simulation Toolkit (FAST) ABMs allow investigation of the electric power infrastructure, the natural gas infrastructure, and their interdependencies. The Swarm-based SMART models use sets of agents and interconnections to represent electric power and natural gas systems. A prototype virtual reality (VR) interface has also been constructed for a version of the SMART model. This tool is intended to explore the use of advanced interactive three-dimensional visualization in agent-based modeling. The Java-based FAST model is currently under construction. FAST is a complete redesign of the SMART models that includes improvements in the modeling environment, model detail, and representational fidelity. Developing ABMs is difficult but can be rewarding.
The Acquisition of Computer-Aided Dispatch Systems
Authors: Nesbary Dale
Published: April 2009

Although many have explored the impact of technology on police agencies, less attention has been paid to the factors regarding a decision to acquire new technology. This article examines the process of selecting computer-aided dispatch systems in large municipal police agencies. Specifically, it examines the experiences of the Boston Police Department in selecting a new computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system operationalized on June 7, 1994. The influence of stakeholder groups, including politicians, administrators, and the department, is considered. Department staff members are interviewed to determine whether they believe that the CAD acquisition has made a difference after 5 years of operation. Finally, a series of recommendations regarding the selection of a CAD system is presented.
Resources for Computerized Crime Mapping
Authors: Garson G. David , Vann Irvin
Published: April 2009

This report inventories geographic information systems resources for crime mapping, with a view to publicizing new research tools applicable to topics in sociology, public administration, criminology, and other social sciences.
Crime Mapping and Its Extension to Social Science Analysis
Authors: Vann Irvin B. , Garson G. David
Published: April 2009

The purpose of this article is to present the definitions of 21 geographic information system (GIS) functions used in crime mapping and to propose how these functions may be applied more generally to social science research. Most social data are spatial, but this fact has been largely ignored in sociological and social science research. More extensive use of both spatial statistics and spatial analysis in sociology seems likely, and hopefully this article will stimulate social scientist readers to explore using GIS in their research.
Excel as a Teaching Platform for Managerial Economics
Authors: Erfle Stephen
Published: April 2009

Managerial economics is one of the most applied areas of economics. Managerial economics teaches students how to use the tools of economics to make decisions. As a result, this class is most effective if it simulates what students face when working in a business setting. Students should therefore be taught using the same toolkit on which business managers rely. Today, that means using Excel as the platform on which to teach the course. Excel is integrated into the course content not only during computer labs and in homework but also during class. Such integration requires more than a set of spreadsheet exercises to accompany a text; it requires Excel programs that faculty can use to interactively introduce concepts during lectures. This article describes a series of exercises and programs that teach students how to use Excel, and how to use Excel to analyze data needed to make reasoned decisions.
Innovations in Survey Research
Authors: Sills Stephen J. , Song Chunyan
Published: April 2009

The rapid expansion of Internet users has given Web-based surveys the potential to become a powerful tool in survey research. As an application of this technique for gathering data, the International Student Survey was designed to explore factors that might influence choices of college majors and the social support network system among international students at Arizona State University. Cover letters with the links to a Web-based questionnaire were sent through e-mail to the entire international students population. Given that no incentive was offered, this study received a total of 929 completed surveys for an overall response rate of 22% after three waves of solicitations. This article discusses the methodological concerns and problems that arise from using Web surveys, including noncoverage, nonresponse errors, confidentiality concerns, and technical problems. Suggestions for improving response rates also are discussed.
Local Television, the World Wide Web, and the 2000 Presidential Election
Authors: Novotny Patrick
Published: April 2009

Digital cable modems, wireless Internet service providers (ISPs), digital subscriber line (DSL) services, fiber optics systems, and Internet access through a growing number of direct satellite television providers have transformed the way that millions of Americans receive the latest news and information about political campaigns. Multilingual video, text, and audio files on candidate Web sites, dial-up Internet services provided through the Republican National Committee and the Democratic National Committee, electronic mail updates of policy announcements, Web site rebuttals to the statements made during the nationally televised presidential debates, full-color printable flyers and bumper stickers for laser printing, and other forms of interactive software and multimedia were just a few of the new developments in the 2000 presidential race. This article addresses the changing multimedia technologies—including the use of local television markets and the new uses of the World Wide Web—in the 2000 presidential election.
Citizen Surveys on the Web
Authors: Miller Thomas I. , Kobayashi Michelle Miller , Caldwell Erin , Thurston Sarah , Collett Ben
Published: April 2009

Experiments were conducted in two cities comparing web and mail surveys seeking resident attitudes about city services, quality of community life and local policies. Web participants were recruited the same way as mail participants, through a probability sample of addresses, but web recruits were mailed the survey URL instead of the questionnaire. Response rates, respondent demographic characteristics, use of “Don’t Know” and mean responses as well as response variability were compared. Although in each city, response rates were much lower for the web participants, and web respondents had different demographic characteristics and tendencies to be opinionated compared to mail respondents, the variability and means of results were quite similar for the two survey groups. Differences between web responses and mail responses also were similar in both cities. Despite coverage limitations, web administration may have limited utility for citizen surveys where political and technical barriers can be overcome.
Motivating Online Performance
Authors: Thompson Lori Foster , Meriac John P. , Cope John G.
Published: April 2009

This study investigated the effects of goal setting on Internet searches and examined the relationship between Internet self-efficacy and search task performance. Participants searched the Internet and listed the names of the industrial-organizational psychologists they found. Control participants were instructed to “do their best” to find as many names as possible, and experimental participants were assigned the goal of 70 names. As expected, participants in the goal condition worked longer than did those in the control condition. Furthermore, the data generally supported the hypothesis that individuals with goals would produce more results than their non-goal-directed counterparts. Compared to control participants, however, those with goals did not visit a smaller proportion of non-task-related web sites as predicted. Finally, the anticipated positive correlation was found between Internet self-efficacy and the number of correct search results produced. It is concluded that goal setting may be an effective method for increasing online productivity.
Agent-Based Modeling
Authors: Johnson Paul E.
Published: April 2009

The Santa Fe Artificial Stock Market (ASM) is a well-known agent-based model. A new revision of the code (ASM-2.2) is now available. This article describes some of the changes that were made in the code base and also presents some important lessons for agent-based modelers that can be illustrated with the code. Because the code is available on the Internet, it is hoped that this discussion and the code base it represents will be helpful to people who are planning projects in the field of agent-based modeling.
Online Longitudinal Survey Research
Authors: Hiskey Syd , Troop Nicholas A.
Published: April 2009

This article explores the viability of conducting longitudinal survey research using the Internet in samples exposed to trauma. A questionnaire battery assessing psychological adjustment following adverse life experiences was posted online. Participants who signed up to take part in the longitudinal aspect of the study were contacted 3 and 6 months after initial participation to complete the second and third waves of the research. Issues of data screening and sample attrition rates are considered and the demographic profiles and questionnaire scores of those who did and did not take part in the study during successive time points are compared. The results demonstrate that it is possible to conduct repeated measures survey research online and that the similarity in characteristics between those who do and do not take part during successive time points mirrors that found in traditional pencil-and-paper trauma surveys.
The Effects of Asynchronous Computer-Mediated Group Interaction on Group Processes
Authors: Taylor Jacqui , Macdonald John
Published: April 2009

This article reports a study undertaken to investigate some of the social psychological processes underlying computer-supported group discussion in natural computer-mediated contexts. Based on the concept of deindividuation, it was hypothesized that personal identifiability and group identity would be important factors that affect the perceptions and behavior of members of computer-mediated groups. The degree of personal identifiability and the strength of group identity were manipulated across groups of geographically dispersed computer users who took part in e-mail discussions during a 2-week period. The results do not support the association between deindividuation and uninhibited behavior cited in much previous research. Instead, the data provide some support for a social identity perspective of computer-mediated communication, which explains the higher levels uninhibited in identifiable computer-mediated groups. However, predictions based on social identity theory regarding group polarization and group cohesion were not supported. Possible explanations for this are discussed and further research is suggested to resolve these discrepancies.