Training for Research Data Management at the Bodleian Libraries: National Contexts and Local Implementation for Researchers and Librarians

ABSTRACT

This article outlines the involvement of the Bodleian Libraries at the University of Oxford in developing new services for research data management. It offers reflections on what such additional support means for academic librarians, specifically considering support offered by subject consultants and a series of research data management (RDM) training workshops. The need to reshape library roles, teams and collections to accommodate developments in support for research data and its management is discussed. Additional actions being carried out within the Bodleian Libraries to help further meet these needs are outlined and include the development of the role of a Data Librarian and engagement of a network of librarians with this expanding area of professional knowledge. This review of what has been achieved so far provides fellow practitioners with valuable lessons and pointers to consider when reviewing the support required within their own institutions.     

Relational Framing Theory and Coming-Out Narratives: A Data Analysis Activity

Courses: This single class activity would be most useful in interpersonal, family, gender/sexuality communication, or research methods courses. This activity facilitates better discussion in a small or seminar-style class with students who have had pervious exposure to or who are in the process of learning about interpersonal communication theory or research methods.

Objectives: The goals for this activity are to (a) practice data analysis utilizing a specific theory, (b) identify the presence of relational frames and judgments to become more familiar with the interpersonal dimensions of coming-out interactions, (c) appreciate a multiplicity of data interpretations through the practice of group coding, and (d) practice evaluating the quality of data interpretations.     

Beyond Baron and Kenny: Statistical Mediation Analysis in the New Millennium

The relative effectiveness of visualization and verbalization as mediators of thought was investigated in two experiments. It was found that when subjects were required to pass on verbal instructions, they performed better in the presence of a visual referent. Subjects who were required to overtly visualize (draw) during a discrimination learning task performed as well on a subsequent transposition task as subjects who were required to overtly verbalize (talk). Both groups performed better than a control group which was not required to overtly visualize or verbalize.     

Models of Computer-Based Outbreak Detection

Summary

Despite intensive development of computer-based surveillance (CBS), there has been little work on models of such systems. This paper describes a computational model of CBS-output, inputs, and algorithms required to create the output from the inputs. Starting from an assumed requirement that an ideal CBS system be capable of mitigating a bioterroristic outbreak of inhalational Anthrax, the author shows that an output of CBS should be a continuously updated probabilistic threat assessment, which is used to trigger response actions at levels of threat determined by cost-benefit analyses. The paper considers the types of algorithmic transformations required to map from a full spectrum of types of input data to the required output. The set of input data is much broader than previously considered. The specific complementary relationship between the computational model and the evolving architectural model of the National Electronic Disease Surveillance System is discussed.     

Connecting with What Is Out There!: Using Twitter in the Large Lecture

Objectives: Students and teachers will develop both practical skills and theoretical/cultural understanding with regards to how Twitter can be used to present ideas and create dialogue between individuals and communities within and outside the classroom.

Course(s): Primarily, this student engagement method can be used in any large lecture class (e.g., Introduction to Mass Communication, Introduction to Communication Studies). However, such methods can be used for any course where frequent and short communications are required and/or encouraged between members of the class.     

An Amicable Divorce: Programmatic Derivation of Faceted Data from Library of Congress Subject Headings for Music

Abstract

Music catalogers have embraced in current cataloging the flexibility, intuitiveness, and expressivity afforded by the Library of Congress’s new faceted vocabularies. In order to realize the full benefits to discovery these vocabularies offer, however, methods for programmatically assigning faceted terms retrospectively to existing metadata for music resources are required in order to mitigate the costs of manual enhancement of legacy data. This article describes efforts to repurpose existing Library of Congress Subject Headings as faceted data, taking advantage of recent developments in the MARC 21 formats. Limitations inherent to this process and ideas for future directions are described.     

Discoverability of information on clinical trial data-sharing platforms

Objective:This study was intended to (1) provide clinical trial data-sharing platform designers with insight into users'' experiences when attempting to evaluate and access datasets, (2) spark conversations about improving the transparency and discoverability of clinical trial data, and (3) provide a partial view of the current information-sharing landscape for clinical trials.Methods:We evaluated preview information provided for 10 datasets in each of 7 clinical trial data-sharing platforms between February and April 2019. Specifically, we evaluated the platforms in terms of the extent to which we found (1) preview information about the dataset, (2) trial information on ClinicalTrials.gov and other external websites, and (3) evidence of the existence of trial protocols and data dictionaries.Results:All seven platforms provided data previews. Three platforms provided information on data file format (e.g., CSV, SAS file). Three allowed batch downloads of datasets (i.e., downloading multiple datasets with a single request), whereas four required separate requests for each dataset. All but one platform linked to ClinicalTrials.gov records, but only one platform had ClinicalTrails.gov records that linked back to the platform. Three platforms consistently linked to external websites and primary publications. Four platforms provided evidence of the presence of a protocol, and six platforms provided evidence of the presence of data dictionaries.Conclusions:More work is needed to improve the discoverability, transparency, and utility of information on clinical trial data-sharing platforms. Increasing the amount of dataset preview information available to users could considerably improve the discoverability and utility of clinical trial data.     

Library Instruction for the Next Millennium

Abstract

The library staff, in conjunction with the Graduate School of Management and Technology (GSMT) and Undergraduate Programs (UGP), developed two online courses. The first, for GSMT, was an online, fee-based, self-paced, required course for all incoming graduate students at the University of Maryland, University College (UMUC). The second, LIBS 100, was an elective, for-credit course. The process of designing, testing, and delivering the graduate course is described. In addition, a comparison of the two course design processes is briefly reviewed. Finally, the initial survey data assessing the students' perception of the value of the graduate course is also included.     

Using Survey Sites for Information Literacy Scheduling and Teaching

ABSTRACT

Active Information Literacy (IL) programs require scheduling management to ensure that librarians have adequate time to prepare, and that computers and classrooms are available. Collecting this information from busy faculty members can be time consuming. Internet survey sites can be used to collect the required information. These sites allow a library's IL staff to structure a questionnaire that elicits all of the information (instructor contact information, discipline, desired dates, times, number of students, and session topics) required to design instruction and schedule busy classrooms. doi:10.1300/J106v14n03_07     

THE SCIENTIFIC EXAMINATION OF THE POL YCHROMED SCULPTURE IN THE HERLIN ALTARPIECE

Abstract

An account is given of the examination of the polychromed sculpture in the Hedin altarpiece (1466) in Rothenburg old T. (W Germany). Analytical methods used, such as microscopy, wet chemical analysis, infrared spectrophotometry, thin-layer chromatography and gas-liquid chromatography are briefly described. Criteria for identification are summarized. Pigments identified are azurite, indigo, verdigris, green earth, madder, vermilion, red lead, lead white and carbon black. The binding medium is glue in matt areas. In other parts paints are mostly based on a resinous medium with varying amounts of oil. The materials identified in the applique relief brocades are compared with recipes described in the Liber Illuministarius from Tegernsee. Silver foil is used in producing translucent paint.     

Digital Democratic Voices: Intersecting Student Research,Twitter, and Presidential Debates

Courses: Mass Communication and Public Opinion, Political Communication

Objectives: Often, there are media events (e.g., local and national elections, the Super Bowl) that match up with what we hope to accomplish in a particular class. The purpose of this semester-length project for students was threefold: (1) to read and comprehend literature related to communication studies, media, and political strategy; (2) to collect and analyze data; and (3) to participate in civic engagement by taking part in Presidential DebateWatch events, both as an audience member and through the use of Twitter.     

Embracing Changing Technology and New Technical Services Workflows in Migrating to a Next-Generation Library Management System

ABSTRACT

In 2015, Radford University’s McConnell Library migrated to OCLC Online Computer Library Center, Inc. (OCLC)’s WorldShare Management Services, relinquishing three legacy systems in the process. As a result, many of the Collection and Technical Services Department’s workflows changed considerably beginning months before the contract was signed. An extensive temporary departmental focus on data clean-up and training was required while maintaining core duties. New opportunities for collaboration and communication emerged. In light of developing new workflows, NASIG Core Competencies for Electronic Resources Librarians and NASIG Core Competencies for Print Serials Management were consulted in revising positions. What follows is the process, management, communication, and outcomes involved in migrating to a new next-generation library management system.     

California Cultures: Implementing a Model for Virtual Collections

SUMMARY

This article highlights the California Cultures Project as a case study examining the architecture and framework required to support the deployment of digital objects as virtual collections at the California Digital Library. Chronologically arranged, it describes the Online Archive of California (OAC) Working Group's functional requirements for access to digital objects independent of parent finding aids, and the development and implementation of infrastructures supporting this vision. Discussion includes project organization and content selection for digitization, Web site service vision for K-12 teacher target audience, best practices for encoding, data standards, lesson plans, metadata requirements, METS creation tools, project manuals, repositories, search engines, tools enabling customizable interfaces, user assessment, and usability testing.     

Welcome and Introductory Remarks

Abstract

Both photocopied tables of contents and originals were scanned by optical character recognition (OCR). (The threshold for acceptable OCR conversion is a break-even point of 94% accuracy; it is cheaper to rekey data than fix corrupted data if rates fall below this point.) The results suggest that OCR recognition rates are likely to support improved capture productivity for as many as 75% of tables of contents. More than half (55%) of the sample can be processed effectively.     

Evaluation of sodium nitrite as a corrosion inhibitor for USS Monitor artifacts

Abstract

The use of sodium nitrite (NaNO₂) as a corrosion inhibitor for wet archeological metal objects presents potential advantages of near neutral pH, low concentration, effectiveness on several metals, and compatibility with organic materials. The effectiveness of NaNO₂ as a corrosion inhibitor for storage of chloride-containing marine archeological metal objects from the wreck of the USS Monitor was evaluated using marine-corroded carbon steel analogs. The samples were tested in varying concentrations of NaNO₂ and evaluated visually and by monitoring solution chemistry using ion chromatography (IC). It was found that a concentration of 1000 ppm NaNO₂, replaced four times, was effective at protecting corroded carbon steel in the presence of chlorides. Nitrite solutions were no more rapid than sodium hydroxide (NaOH) at extracting chlorides from marine steel at equal concentrations and were considerably slower than 2% NaOH. IC analyses indicated that NO₂ does not easily oxidize to NO₃ under normal conditions, but does so readily when a polarizing current is applied, making nitrites unsuitable for electrolytic reduction treatments. Sodium nitrite does show promise as a storage solution prior to desalination of marine metals or after desalination to prevent flash corrosion during rinsing baths.     

Empowering Librarians in the Provision of Data Services in Canada: A Case Study of the DLI Survival Guide

ABSTRACT

While some Canadian universities have a long history in the provision of data services, that was not the norm in Canada, especially in small universities and colleges. To maximize the use of data by students and researchers in academia, it was evident that increased education, resources, and tools were required to support those delivering data services on their campuses. To this end, the Data Liberation Initiative (DLI) Survival Guide was designed as a comprehensive reference tool, which complements an established regional training curriculum, whereby enabling librarians to effectively fulfill their role as a DLI Contact in their academic institutions. This case study will examine the history, current state, and recommended future direction of the Survival Guide. This article will also examine the challenges in understanding the drivers shaping academic service delivery and the ways in which the guide has evolved to remain current to the needs of the Canadian data community.     

A Monument of Byzantine Wall Painting—the Method of Construction

Abstract

Samples of pigments from excavated wall-paintings at the great civilization center of the Greek Bronze Age, Thera, have been analysed by the non-destructive methods of X-ray fluorescence, X-ray diffraction and mineralogical microscopic examination. The results showed that three types of blue pigment were used, namely the well-known Egyptian blue, glaucophane, which is a sodium magnesium (or iron) aluminium hydroxide silicate which occurs as a natural mineral on Santorini, and a mixture of Egyptian blue and glaucophane. Black pigments were rather puzzling in that some of them are carbon as expected, and some are manganese compounds. The rest of the pigments are very similar to those previously examined from Mycenae and Knossos.     

Space Communications: Two Sources of Data

Richard G. Lawson, Teleconferencing in Wisconsin (October 1971)

Delbert D. Smith, Legal Aspects of Teleconferencing (October 1971)

Katherine Shervis, Legal and Political Aspects of Satellite Telecommunication: An Annotated Bibliography (June 1971)

Multidisciplinary Studies of the Social, Economic and Political Impact Resulting From Recent Advances in Satellite Meteorology: Interim Report (two volumes, June 1971)

COMSAT Technical Review is a new journal to be published twice a year (the first issue was dated Fall 1971)

Report to the President and Congress is issued annually in the late Spring or early Summer. The past six reports (1965-70)

Annual Report is the financial report to Comsat stockholders, and copies for 1967-71 are now available

Pocket Guide to the Global Satellite System (January 1972)

Glossary of Terms and Definitions for International Satellite Television Services (September 1971)

U.S. Domestic Satellite Communications: A Summary of Comsat's Proposals (March 1971)

Intelsat Research and Development Program (March 1972)