[Dspace-general] Math Symbols in Abstracts

[courtois@ksu.edu]

Is there a way to specify a Unicode character code within the abstract
input box and have it rendered as the character within the DSpace item
record display?

We're trying to come up with some general guidelines for students on how
to handle mathematical operators and symbols in the abstracts of their
ETDs.  As students submit their ETDs, they generally copy the abstract
from a PDF or Word version of their ETD, then paste it into the
abstract input box in DSpace (ver. 1.2.2).  Some characters paste ok,
others just produce a blank space, some produce a small square box. 
Here's a sample:

∭, è, ⊛, ƒµ, Ϭ

The Unicode for these characters: 222D, 222C, 229B, 03A8, 03EC

The guideline we've been leaning toward is this:

1.  Copy and paste your abstract.
2.  Check it carefully.  If any characters did not paste properly, edit
the text of your abstract.  You may need to spell out the operator as
text rather than using the symbol.

This approach is not proving popular with math, physics, statistics, and
other subject areas.  For those cases where students feel they must use
a symbol, is there a way to enter Unicode character code in the
abstract input box and have the symbol rendered in the DSpace item
record display?

Thanks for any suggestions you have,

Marty

Martin Courtois
Information Technology Assistance Center
509 Hale Library
Kansas State University
Manhattan KS 66502
Phone: 785 532-4428
Fax: 785 532-3199
E-mail: courtois at ksu.edu