Search

Information design--incorporating research in graphic design, typography, visualization, and usability--is a user experience practice directly applicable to contemporary museums, libraries, and archives. Information design principles and guidelines improve engagement at every point of service, effectively and efficiently complementing the mission of knowledge organizations. This historical survey explores information design in the context of contemporary user experience design, and provides an overview of information design principles and guidelines developed over 40 years of research and professional application. Applying elements of information design to archival finding aids enhances usability, while also preserving descriptive and contextual structures.

This article reports on the third phase of a project studying the integration of information behavior theories and concepts into professional education for reference and information service (RIS). It also provides a synthesis of the results of all studies in the project, including a syllabus study, an interview study, and the survey. Results of the project show that Kuhlthau's information search process model, along with several other key theories, models, and concepts, is perceived by instructors of introductory RIS courses in North America as important for RIS practice. Instructors feel that students are generally receptive to conceptual content in the course, although most teach a more practice-focused course or a course with a balance of conceptual and practical content. Still, 10-31% of introductory RIS courses do not include any information behavior content, suggesting that the relevance of theory to practice remains an ongoing debate.

Purpose: Innovations in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are essential for increasing resource efficiency and sustainability in the agri-food system. An innovation support service (ISS) can benefit SMEs but the provision and access to it can be restricted across national borders thereby hindering cross-border regions' economic potential. The aim was to investigate how ISSs are provided and used in such a region and explore stakeholders' perceptions on their limitations and opportunities. Methodology: We conducted a case study in the Dutch-German cross-border region Euregio Rhine-Waal which included a content analysis of websites and stakeholder interviews. Findings: The provision of ISSs was limited by differing structures and priorities in both countries. SMEs' unfamiliarity with responsible authorities, significant administrative effort, and uncertainty about pay-offs were perceived as factors limiting ISS. Practical implications: We provide recommendations on how to improve ISS in cross-border regions and inform policymaking for cross-border regional development. We recommend reducing limitations of ISS provision and use, e.g. by engaging ISS providers and users in a co-creative approach. Furthermore, we suggest using opportunities of ISS provision and use, e.g. through increased promotion of available ISS by brokers. Theoretical implications: Our research contributes to the literature of extension and advisory systems by showing how differing institutional settings, combined with different 'innovation cultures' and the availability of cross-border brokers affect cross-border integration of ISS. Originality: This is the first study to explore the limitations and potentials of ISSs in a cross-border region.

A professional practice is a type of internship, a practicum, that encompasses a supervised hands-on training experience for students to develop and identify the core and enabling competencies required in a professional environment. It also allows them to identify the developed and underdeveloped skills that are important in the labour environment while still undergoing an academic training. Therefore, the purpose of this research is to determine the core and enabling competencies required and developed by the students coursing the Library and Information Science Programme at Universidad Tecnologica Metropolitana during their professional practices carried out from 2019 through 2021. To this end, a questionnaire with open and closed-ended questions was used as data collection instrument. It was applied to a sample of 64 graduates from this Programme, out of a universe of 70 students in addition to a focus group to delve deeper into the answers obtained. The results established that both core and enabling competencies had been relevant in their professional practice. The most relevant core competencies were those related to information and knowledge services; information analysis and data retrieval; and organisation of data, information and knowledge assets meanwhile the most relevant enabling competencies were communication, teamwork and adaptability.

We consider a manufacturer and an e-platform where the manufacturer sells products through offline and e-platform channels under the cap-and-trade scheme. The interaction between the two channels produces the cross-channel effect (CCE). This manufacturer cooperates with the e-platform in the agency or reseller mode. In addition, the platform shares its observed data with the manufacturer and the blockchain can achieve traceability and high transparency of these data. We formulate a Stackelberg game to derive the following results: In the agency mode, the optimal service level is independent of (decreases with) CCE without (with) blockchain. CCE positively affects the optimal service level in the reseller mode and the optimal service level has no impact on (increases with) the cap in the agency (reseller) mode. Second, when the platform-enabled power is high (low), the platform is (not) willing to adopt blockchain. Third, coordination of the manufacturer and platform only can be achieved in the agency mode when CCE is low with blockchain. The reseller mode can (cannot) achieve coordination of the two firms with (without) blockchain. We also consider the cases where the manufacturer serves as the leader and the omni-channel strategy is adopted to check the robustness of the coordination results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite ongoing efforts to improve database accessibility, aggregated database vendors concede that they do not have complete control over document accessibility. Instead, they point to the responsibility of journal publishers to deliver articles in an accessible format. This may increase the likelihood that users with disabilities will encounter articles that are not compatible with a screen reader. To better understand the extent of the problem, a document accessibility audit was conducted of randomly selected articles from EBSCO's Library & Information Source database. Full-text articles from 12 library science journals were evaluated against two measures of screen reader compatibility: HTML format (the optimal format for screen readers) and PDF accessibility conformance. Findings showed inconsistencies in HTML format availability for articles in the selected journals. Additionally, the entire sample of PDF articles failed to meet the minimum standard of PDF Universal Accessibility of containing a tagged structure. However, all PDF articles passed accessibility permissions tests, so could be made accessible retroactively by a third party. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Objective Methods Results Conclusions Pakistan is a densely populated South Asian country. It is facing numerous health challenges, as well as problems of the digital divide. The government of Pakistan established e‐libraries as a pilot project in 2018. These libraries are functioning through community centers/public libraries in the largest province of the country.This paper examines the role of Pakistani e‐libraries in creating health awareness and providing health information to the public.The qualitative research design was based on focus group discussions with the head librarians of all 13 of the 20 e‐libraries contacted.The findings revealed that e‐libraries actively create health‐related awareness and connect the public to health advisors. The e‐libraries were engaged in four types of health‐related activities (seminars, awareness campaigns, open health camps, and special health day celebrations) with high attendance from the public. Attendees of these programs returned to librarians with additional health‐related queries.The study suggests a need for more liaison between the community and local healthcare institutions. This approach can make these programs more effective in helping individuals manage their health. The results of this study can serve as a useful guide for other developing nations in developing similar services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global climate change is leading to an increase in compound hot-dry events, significantly impacting human habitats. Analysing the causes and effects of these events requires precise data, yet most meteorological data focus on variables rather than extremes, which hinders relevant research. A daily compound hot-dry events (CHDEs) dataset was developed from 1980 to 2100 under various socioeconomic scenarios, using the latest NASA Earth Exchange Global Daily Downscaled Projections (NEX-GDDP-CMIP6) dataset to address this. The dataset has a spatial resolution of 0.25 degrees (approximately 30 kilometres), including three indicators, namely D (the yearly sum of hot-dry extreme days), prI (the intensity of daily precipitation), and tasI (the intensity of daily temperature). To validate the accuracy of the dataset, we compared observational data from China (National Meteorological Information Center, NMIC), Europe (ERA5), and North America (ERA5). Results show close alignment with estimated values from the observational daily dataset, both temporally and spatially. The predictive interval (PI) pass rates for the CHDEs dataset exhibit notably high values. For a 90% PI, D has a pass rate exceeding 85%, whilst prI and tasI respectively show a pass rate above 70% and 95%. These results underscore its suitability for conducting global and regional studies about compound hot-dry events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the development of geographic information services, applications based on map data are increasing. Internet and mobile communication technologies have brought great convenience to the distribution, sharing, and acquisition of map data. Unfortunately, it also brings great challenges to protect the security and privacy of confidential map data. Although several encryption algorithms have been developed for map data, most of the existing methods are simple extensions of classical encryption algorithms for text data in cryptography, ignoring special structures and characteristics of geospatial data. Existing methods mainly take the entire map or layers as encryption units, which makes the encryption efficiency for large-scale map data low and limits the ability to perform local and incremental encryption for local areas, making it still challenging to meet the needs of map data in applications, such as autonomous driving. To solve the limitations, a local encryption approach for large-scale vector map data is proposed in this paper considering the structure characteristics of map data. Experiments on map data of different types (including points, lines, and polygons) demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method. With local and parallel encryption strategies, the proposed method has higher efficiency compared to available algorithms for large-scale map data. HIGHLIGHTS: A local encryption approach for vector map data is proposed, which can be applied to large-scale vector map data and support localized encryption/decryption for user-interested areas instead of the whole map data. The proposed method estimates different encryption parameters for different units which could significantly enhance the resistance to attacks and naturally supports parallel computing. With local and parallel encryption strategies, the proposed method has higher efficiency compared to available algorithms for large-scale map data. The method has great value and potential for ensuring map data security in ubiquitous GIS-based applications, such as map data sharing and dynamic updating in automatic driving and crowdsourced mapping. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Proximity to mental health services is a predictor of timely access to services. The present study sought to investigate whether travel time was associated with engagement in coordinated specialty care (CSC) for early psychosis, with specific attention to whether the interaction of travel time by race and ethnicity had differential impact. Data Source/Study Setting: Data collected between 2019 and 2022 as part of the New Journeys evaluation, the CSC model in Washington State. Study Design: This cross-sectional study included a sample of 225 service users with first episode psychosis (FEP) who had received services from New Journeys. Data Collection: Service users' addresses, and the physical location of CSC were geocoded. Spatial proximity was calculated as travel time in minutes. Scheduled appointments, attendance and program status were captured monthly by clinicians as part of the New Journeys measurement battery. Principal Findings: Proximity was significantly associated with the number of appointments scheduled and attended, and program status (graduation/completion and disengagement). Among Hispanic service users with spatial proximity further away from CSC (longer commutes) was associated with a lower likelihood of graduating/completing CSC compared to non-Hispanic service users (p =.04). Non-white services users had a higher risk of disengagement from CSC compared to white service users (p =.03); additionally, the effects of spatial proximity on disengagement were amplified for non-White service users (p =.03). Conclusions: Findings suggest that proximity is associated with program engagement and partially explains potential differences in program status among ethnoracial group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Due to contemporary threats to democracy, the topic is highly prominent in news and social discourse. The Library and Information Science (LIS) field writes about democracy frequently and it is a core concept underwriting many common library practices, but it lacks a working definition of modern democracy. This article supplies a minimal definition of democracy specifically for LIS, and expands the concept to encompass a more empirically accurate concept of library roles in democratic societies that includes the sociology of democracy where libraries arguable play a more significant role. Design/methodology/approach: There is an unpacking of library assumptions about operating in democratic societies, an empirical survey of the conditions of modern democracy, and a baseline theoretical description of democratic functioning as it currently exists. Findings: A minimal definition of modern democracy situates library practices – and in some ways minimizes them. However, the role of culture – the sociology that democracy presumes – comes to prominence when the civil society role of libraries and the conditions of successful democratic functioning are examined. Originality/value: There is now a minimal definition of democracy for LIS with this effort, but it needs expansion. In that sense, LIS is a leading example of the undertheorized role of the sociology that democracy presumes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of ABI Technik is the property of De Gruyter and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of ABI Technik is the property of De Gruyter and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Purpose: This study examines the digital accessibility of information services for students with disabilities at the University of Jordan. Despite advancements in disability rights and technology, academic libraries often lag in providing fully accessible digital services. Design/methodology/approach: The mixed-methods research involved quantitative surveys from 173 students with disabilities and a qualitative interview with the head of the information application department, in addition to a focus group interview with 10 students with disabilities. Quantitative analysis included means, standard deviations and four-way ANOVA to identify significant differences in perceptions. Qualitative insights highlighted specific issues and recurring themes, revealing significant gaps in digital accessibility. Findings: The results revealed a weak level of digital accessibility of students with disabilities to information services in academic libraries in Jordan is very low. The findings indicate a need for improvements in library infrastructure, staff training and policy development. The study also offers insights into challenges in a developing country context and provides recommendations for enhancing library inclusivity and support structures, emphasizing the importance of aligning services with international accessibility standards. Practical implications: The findings will primarily be beneficial for library managers to understand their library's deficiencies and responsibility towards the local community and the enhancement of digital inclusion. This understanding will aid in planning training programs and workshops for employees on supporting students with disabilities. Additionally, it serves as a valuable resource for collaboration between libraries and educators to organize educational sessions for academic librarians in Jordan and other developing nations. Originality/value: It serves as a valuable resource for collaboration between libraries and educators to organize educational sessions for academic librarians in Jordan and other developing nations. This research adds value to existing literature by highlighting the context in one developing country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper investigated the current application of robots in public libraries with specific consideration of its future opportunities. Three (3) objectives guided the conduct of the study. The study employed a qualitative research approach. The population for the study comprised librarians who have been certified by the Librarian Registration Council of Nigeria (LRCN) and worked at public library boards. Thematic analysis and content analysis techniques were adopted for this study. The study found that robots bring various advantages, including increased operational efficiency and streamlined access to information, as well as interactive educational opportunities and heightened user involvement. The findings indicate that embracing robotic technology enables public libraries to establish more accessible, dynamic, and user-focused environments, fostering an atmosphere of innovation and technological progress within the realm of information services. It could be concluded that the integration of robots in public libraries plays a vital role in modernizing and improving library services to meet the evolving demands of library users and communities. However, library stakeholders must address potential obstacles, including financial limitations, technological preparedness, and user acceptance. Prioritizing the training of staff, fostering community involvement, and establishing clear policy frameworks enables public libraries to effectively navigate the challenges related to incorporating robotics, ensuring a smooth transition toward a technologically advanced and user-focused library environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Airport digitalization has revolutionized service delivery at passenger touchpoints, which leads to sustainable passenger loyalty. However, it is critical to determine whether this rapid transition to digital services genuinely enhances passenger satisfaction with airport services. This study uses a mixed-method approach to identify key traditional and technology-driven information services in smart airports. The specific aim is to determine the optimal balance in which digital technologies can effectively replace human-provided services to establish sustainable passenger loyalty. Two rounds of Delphi surveys were conducted with panels of 23 and 21 experts, followed by an online Kano survey with 401 international passengers. The Delphi analysis identified 16 key information service attributes, while the Kano analysis revealed that the majority of technology-based services were attractive and positively influenced passenger satisfaction. By contrast, human-based services were mostly indifferent, although some were vital for boosting satisfaction and preventing dissatisfaction. These results advance the current airport service research and provide practical insights into optimizing passenger experiences through the strategic integration of technology for sustainable smart airports while maintaining essential human-provided services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper will discuss ALIA NGAC’s explorations of the impact of mandatory employment requirements within the library and information services sector, with a focus on the challenges faced by new generation professionals. Using a qualitative research approach, we uncovered the real-life experiences faced by individuals encountering hidden barriers to employment, particularly those related to drivers licence requirements and the need to work across multiple locations. In late 2023, we conducted a survey which allowed respondents to express their feelings about these requirements and offer suggestions for how the library and information services sector could address them. Our findings reveal that these requirements often act as exclusionary barriers, especially for individuals with disabilities, leading to difficulties in job applications, the burden of disclosing disabilities, and feelings of underrepresentation and discrimination. Our research has identified several pathways to alleviate the impact of these mandatory employment requirements, fostering a more inclusive and equitable workforce in the LIS sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Drug Information Services (DIS) act as a source of technical and scientific information of drugs and medical devices, promoting their rational use. Objectives: To analyze and classify, according to standardized criteria, the pharmacotherapeutic queries, therapeutic groups, and drugs most frequently consulted at the DIS of the Muy Ilustre Colegio Oficial de Farmacéuticos de Valencia (MICOF). Methodology: An ambispective and cross-sectional observational study was conducted from June 1, 2021, to June 1, 2022. A total of 445 inquiries made by pharmacists from the province of Valencia were registered and analyzed, collecting the following data: drug, ATC-4 therapeutic group, and pharmacotherapeutic category of the query. Results: The most frequently consulted categories were commercialization and safety, with Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs, A02BC) and Vitamin K Antagonists (VKAs, B01AA) being the most consulted pharmacological groups, accounting for 2.7% and 2.3% of the total inquiries respectively. Regarding classification, 90,0% of the inquiries about acenocoumarol were about drug interactions, while 33.3% of the inquiries about PPIs were related to commercialization. Conclusions: The analysis of the inquiries received has made possible to identify the therapeutic groups, drugs and pharmacotherapeutic categories that generate the highest number of inquiries. This information is valuable for improving the efficiency of responses at the DIS, providing uniformity, and reducing errors. Additionally, it provides a comprehensive database that facilitates the standardized integration of information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Secondary complex microsurgical reconstructions after amputation and severe trauma injuries are often necessary to optimize functional outcomes. Methods and Patients: We reviewed eight patients who underwent extensive reconstruction after severe trauma. The details of secondary procedures are further described in the article. A literature search was performed using the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) database for studies evaluating secondary procedures after complex reconstructions. Discussion: To date, the order and the need for performing secondary procedures have yet to be fully defined. The tissues encountered include skin, soft tissue, bone, nerve, joint, and tendon. Conclusions: We described the use of a decision-theoretic approach to the secondary reconstruction. Treatment of a complex trauma should be measured by functional outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we examine the methodological possibilities of working with personal textile objects, such as clothes in need of mending, beloved personal blankets, and knotted rag dolls. Our focus is on a transdisciplinary project that sought to collectively explore how the bodies of professionals working for the Colombian Transitional Justice System are affected when engaging with narratives of war and conflict. We contend that textile making in this context serves a dual methodological purpose when facilitating spaces of careful research. Firstly, this material practice enables participants to pause and immerse themselves in their own experiences, something that in turn is generative of personal reflections. Secondly, the created objects become appreciation devices capable of documenting and eliciting memories that continually engage participants and researchers in new inquiries. Consequently, this paper contributes to the understanding of object-oriented methodologies as inherently relational and situated. Moreover, it aims to comprehend textile making practices as capable of unfolding care as a research practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ZBW - Leibniz Information Centre for Economics has opened a new New Work area in its library, which offers a modern working environment with a view of the Kiel Fjord. The Bavarian State Library has acquired the archive of photojournalist Dieter Bauer, which contains important contemporary documents from the years 1980 to 2010. The Bavarian State Library has also taken over responsibility for Hungary and parts of Finno-Ugric studies within the framework of the network of specialized information services. The Bavarian State Library will receive the estate of German poet Eugen Roth. The Federal Cultural Foundation will provide up to 7.5 million euros for the "Lokal - Program for Culture and Engagement" program from 2024 to 2031 to support art and cultural associations as well as other institutions. [Extracted from the article]

Purpose: The purpose of the review was to explore current factors affecting the use of a powered wheelchair for an adult person a with a disability. Materials and Methods: This review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) statement. Information about the characteristics of the studies (type, setting) and perceived barriers and facilitators to powered wheelchair use were extracted using a data extraction sheet. Data synthesis was achieved using narrative synthesis. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Standard Quality Assessment Criteria for Evaluating Primary Research Papers from a Variety of Fields (SQAC) and the CASP checklist (Critical Appraisal Skills Programme), Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine, SIGN (Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network). Results: Fifteen studies qualified for inclusion in the review. The narrative synthesis produced a conceptual map of reported factors affecting the usability of a powered wheelchair. Conclusions: This review demonstrates that powered wheelchair use is a multifaceted and multidisciplinary phenomenon that is dependent on numerous interconnected factors including individual adjustment, stakeholder cooperation, societal attitudes, functional performance, and environmental features. Based on the review findings, there are several applied learning outcomes and practical applications to the powered wheelchair prescription and provision. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION: The rejection, misuse or damage of a powered wheelchair can result in condition deterioration and loss of independence for the user. Adult powered wheelchair prescription, maintenance, and use is a multi-faceted process spanning social, individual, environmental, technical and functional, and organisational factors. Individuals in this stakeholder network should aim to account for these interdisciplinary factors when engaging with people who use powered wheelchairs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With its increasing popularity, healthcare professionals and patients may use ChatGPT to obtain medication‐related information. This study was conducted to assess ChatGPT's ability to provide satisfactory responses (i.e., directly answers the question, accurate, complete and relevant) to medication‐related questions posed to an academic drug information service. ChatGPT responses were compared to responses generated by the investigators through the use of traditional resources, and references were evaluated. Thirty‐nine questions were entered into ChatGPT; the three most common categories were therapeutics (8; 21%), compounding/formulation (6; 15%) and dosage (5; 13%). Ten (26%) questions were answered satisfactorily by ChatGPT. Of the 29 (74%) questions that were not answered satisfactorily, deficiencies included lack of a direct response (11; 38%), lack of accuracy (11; 38%) and/or lack of completeness (12; 41%). References were included with eight (29%) responses; each included fabricated references. Presently, healthcare professionals and consumers should be cautioned against using ChatGPT for medication‐related information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid expansion of non-face-to-face e-commerce services in the Korea has significantly increased the importance of personal identity proofing (PIP) for verifying users in online transactions, such as payments, refunds, membership registrations, and access to age-restricted products. Currently, personal identity proofing agencies (PIPAs) indiscriminately provide all of a user's personal information to internet service providers (ISPs), leading to substantial privacy concerns and preventing users from selectively disclosing only the necessary information. The objective of this paper is to enhance the safety, convenience, and security of PIP services by proposing a method that empowers users to control the personal information they disclose while enabling digital identity integration for both online and offline applications. To achieve this, an extensive overview and analysis of the current PIP systems in Korea is presented, including methods. The strengths and weaknesses of these systems are critically examined, revealing limitations in privacy protection, user convenience, and security. Based on this analysis, a new method is proposed that introduces differentiated levels of PIP means according to authentication strength, allowing for the minimal necessary disclosure of personal information. The proposed method aims to improve the stability and reliability of the PIP service environment by addressing current privacy concerns and enhancing user control over personal information. This approach can be applied to e-commerce services in Korea and other countries facing similar challenges, contributing to the development of safer and more reliable online services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study develops a framework for the impact mechanism based on the "homo urbanicus" theoretical perspective, linking indoor and outdoor fitness environmental elements to residents' subjective perceptions and their activity intensity. An empirical investigation is conducted using structural equation modeling (SEM) with data from 286 valid questionnaires (N = 421). The results demonstrate that both indoor and outdoor fitness environmental elements—specifically spatial, facility, and environmental factors—significantly positively influence residents' fitness activity intensity, with this relationship mediated by perceptions of safety, convenience, comfort, and aesthetics. Furthermore, the study uncovers variations in the types and degrees of influence across indoor and outdoor settings. Based on these findings, the author proposes several planning and design strategies: "In indoor environments, it is essential to ensure that fitness spaces feature bright lighting and thoughtful design to enhance aesthetic appeal; additionally, optimizing spatial layouts and integrating information services can foster greater social interaction. For outdoor environments, prioritizing locations near aesthetically pleasing architecture, adjacent to blue landscapes, and within open areas, as well as sites that are close to community amenities and abundant surrounding facilities, will enhance residents' fitness activity intensity". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a context-aware Internet of Things (IoT) environment, the functional contexts of devices and users will change over time depending on their service consumption. Each iteration of an IoT middleware algorithm will also encounter changes occurring in the contexts due to the joining/leaving of new/old members; this is the inherent nature of ad hoc IoT scenarios. Individual users will have notable preferences in their service consumption patterns; by leveraging these patterns, the approach presented in this article focuses on how these changes impact performance due to functional-context switching over time. This is based on the idea that consumption patterns will exhibit certain time-variant correlations. The maximum likelihood estimation (MLE) is used in the proposed approach to capture the impact of these correlations and study them in depth. The results of this study reveal how the correlation probabilities and the system performance change over time; this also aids with the construction of the boundaries of certain time-variant correlations in users' consumption patterns. In the proposed approach, the information gleaned from the MLE is used in arranging the service information within a distributed service registry based on users' service usage preferences. Practical simulations were conducted over small (100 nodes), medium (1000 nodes), and relatively larger (10,000 nodes) networks. It was found that the approach described helps to reduce service discovery time and can improve the performance in service-oriented IoT scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chatbots are increasingly taken up by the public sector, as a means to efficient provision of information and services. However, there is a lack of knowledge on how users interact with such chatbots. To address this knowledge gap, we have conducted an analysis of user interactions with a chatbot for citizens of Norwegian municipalities. We analyzed a total of 2663 user-chatbot dialogues from six municipalities, using the framework of Følstad and Taylor. The analysis showed that most user input was characterized by brief messages and a utility-oriented dialogue style whereas chatbot responses were characterized by substantial response relevance (68% of chatbot responses categorized as relevant) and helpfulness (66% of dialogues categorized as help being offered and likely used). Furthermore, message brevity and a utility-oriented dialogue style was found to be positively associated with users receiving relevant chatbot responses and helpful dialogue outcomes. Variation in chatbot design, specifically how the chatbot was presented to users, was found to impact user message brevity and dialogue style, and, by extension, response relevance and dialogue outcome. On the basis of the findings, we summarize lessons learnt and suggest directions for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aiming at the problems of low positioning accuracy and poor mapping effect of the visual SLAM system caused by the poor quality of the dynamic object mask in an indoor dynamic environment, an indoor dynamic VSLAM algorithm based on the YOLOv8 model and depth information (YOD-SLAM) is proposed based on the ORB-SLAM3 system. Firstly, the YOLOv8 model obtains the original mask of a priori dynamic objects, and the depth information is used to modify the mask. Secondly, the mask's depth information and center point are used to a priori determine if the dynamic object has missed detection and if the mask needs to be redrawn. Then, the mask edge distance and depth information are used to judge the movement state of non-prior dynamic objects. Finally, all dynamic object information is removed, and the remaining static objects are used for posing estimation and dense point cloud mapping. The accuracy of camera positioning and the construction effect of dense point cloud maps are verified using the TUM RGB-D dataset and real environment data. The results show that YOD-SLAM has a higher positioning accuracy and dense point cloud mapping effect in dynamic scenes than other advanced SLAM systems such as DS-SLAM and DynaSLAM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Disease and non-battle injury (DNBI) has historically been the leading casualty type among service members in warfare and a leading health problem confronting military personnel, resulting in significant loss of manpower. Studies show a significant increase in disease burden for DNBI when compared to combat-related injuries. Understanding the causes of and trends in DNBI may help guide efforts to develop preventive measures and help increase medical readiness and resiliency. However, despite its significant disease burden within the military population, DNBI remains less studied than battle injury. In this review, we aimed to evaluate the recently published literature on DNBI and to describe the characteristics of these recently published studies. Materials and Methods This systematic review is reported in the Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews database. The systematic search for published articles was conducted through July 21, 2022, in Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health, Cochrane Library, Defense Technical Information Center, Embase, and PubMed. Guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses, the investigators independently screened the reference lists on the Covidence website (covidence.org). An article was excluded if it met any of the following criteria: (1) Published not in English; (2) published before 2010; (3) data used before 2001; (4) case reports, commentaries, and editorial letters; (5) systematic reviews or narrative reviews; (6) used animal models; (7) mechanical or biomechanical studies; (8) outcome was combat injury or non-specified; (9) sample was veterans, DoD civilians, contractors, local nationals, foreign military, and others; (10) sample was U.S. Military academy; (11) sample was non-deployed; (12) bioterrorism study; (13) qualitative study. The full-text review of 2 independent investigators reached 96% overall agreement (166 of 173 articles; κ = 0.89). Disagreements were resolved by a third reviewer. Study characteristics and outcomes were extracted from each article. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Meta-analysis of pooled estimates of incidence rates for disease (D), non-battle injury (NBI), and combined DNBI was created using random-effects models. Results Of the 3,401 articles, 173 were included for the full review and 29 (16.8%) met all inclusion criteria. Of the 29 studies included, 21 (72.4%) were retrospective designs, 5 (17.2%) were prospective designs, and 3 (10.3%) were surveys. Across all studies, the median number of total cases reported was 1,626 (interquartile range: 619.5-10,203). The results of meta-analyses for 8 studies with reported incidence rates (per 1,000 person-years) for D (n  = 3), NBI (n  = 7), and DNBI (n  = 5) showed pooled incidence rates of 22.18 per 1,000 person-years for D, 19.86 per 1,000 person-years for NBI, and 50.97 per 1,000 person-years for combined DNBI. Among 3 studies with incidence rates for D, NBI, and battle injury, the incidence rates were 20.32 per 1,000 person-years for D, 6.88 per 1,000 person-years for NBI, and 6.83 per 1,000 person-years for battle injury. Conclusions DNBI remains the leading cause of morbidity in conflicts involving the U.S. Military over the last 20 years. More research with stronger designs and consistent measurement is needed to improve medical readiness and maintain force lethality. Level of Evidence Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis, Level III. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores, in detail, how library and information service provision to the South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) evolved in the context of the historical development of astronomy in South Africa. It is based on empirical research that collected data through the examination of literature, SAAO archival material as well as via semi-structured interviews with a purposefully selected sample of individuals who are experts in the field of astrophysics or astronomy libraries. The study collected information on the role of library and information services in astronomy and documented the historical significance of the library in the context of astronomical research at the SAAO. This paper aims to contribute toward the existing literature covering the history of the SAAO, close the gap in the literature covering the history of its library and information service, as well as to contribute towards the international history of astronomy. The paper suggests a future library and information service that remains closely tied to exciting developments in astronomical research within an electronically connected research landscape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on Komnas Perempuan's annual records in 2023, from the types of personal violence reported to service institutions, the level of dating violence cases is in the first place with 3,528 cases. According to data obtained from Cahaya Perempuan NGO during 2018-2023, victims of dating violence cases totaled 29 cases. The research aims to describe Cahaya Perempuan's efforts in handling women victims of violence in dating relationships. This research also explores the causes of violence and the reasons why victims report their cases. The research method used is a qualitative method approach with descriptive analysis type. Data collection techniques are in-depth interviews with semi-structured types and documentation studies in the form of statistical data, as well as other supporting data. The selection of informants was carried out by purposive sampling with five informants, namely two active activists of Cahaya Perempuan NGO and three informants of victims of dating violence. Data analysis techniques were carried out with data reduction, data presentation and conclusion drawing. The results showed that the efforts made by Cahaya Perempuan NGO in handling victims of violence against women in dating, namely information services, counseling, and legal consultation through advocates. This form of handling is adjusted to the needs of victims to be legally processed or only counseling or consulting assistance. Cahaya Perempuan NGO provides more handling of dating violence cases in the form of counseling or consulting assistance and information services to victims. Meanwhile, legal consultation efforts through advocates are carried out when victims need legal assistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Specialists in poison information are responsible for following-up with exposure cases managed at healthcare facilities. However, the amount of time, call components, and barriers met when completing an initial healthcare facility follow-up call in which a large amount of data and clinical recommendations are shared is not well described. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted by randomizing healthcare facility initial follow-up calls from January to April 2022. One hundred and thirty calls that met the inclusion criteria were randomly selected. We recorded seven unique time intervals within each call. Day of the week, time of day, and variability amongst specialists in poison information were also assessed. Results: Initial follow-up calls took a median of 7.2 min. Most (67%) follow-up calls were directed to emergency departments. Barriers to completion of calls were most commonly due to the healthcare reporter being busy (37%) and specialists in poison information being placed on terminal hold (30%). There was variability between specialists in poison information in the time for healthcare reporter to share data (P < 0.0001), time for specialists in poison information recommendations (P = 0.0076), and total time (P = 0.0003). Discussion: Variability exists amongst specialists in poison information during periods of information exchange, particularly when the healthcare reporter is providing information and subsequently when the specialist in poison information is providing recommendations. Barriers to completing calls centered around healthcare reporter being busy or the specialist in poison information being placed on a terminal hold. There was no correlation with the time or day of the week. Conclusions: With notable variability in these calls during periods of intense communication of data and treatment recommendations, there are likely opportunities for specialists in poison information and poison center directors to work together to address variability and overcome barriers to completing initial hospital follow-up calls. Further studies to evaluate variability amongst specialists in poison information are the next steps in understanding this complex topic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study addresses the role of Romanian academic and research librarians in optimizing access to information in the digital age, in relation to quality management and knowledge management. The novelty of this study consists in its parallel analysis of both librarians' and users' perspectives on librarians' roles and abilities in optimizing access to information. The results obtained by means of interpretative qualitative analysis combined with descriptive quantitative analysis revealed that Romanian librarians succeed in providing good information services, however, the demands and expectations of users highlight a continuous need for integration of librarians into the mission of the universities and research institutes, and knowledge sharing and a series of innovations are recommended. The results obtained by interpretative analysis, combined with quantitative analysis for corroboration, point to four interrelated themes regarding the Romanian librarians' roles and abilities in optimizing access to information. The first principal idea is that librarians' abilities and competencies are key assets for Romanian academic and special research libraries. The second is that Romanian librarians need training in knowledge management and quality management. The third is that embedded librarianship and knowledge sharing could add quality to libraries services. Finally, the fourth is that competency management can determine engagement of Romanian librarians in improving access to information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Serious leisure enthusiasts, including hobbyists, volunteers and amateurs, continuously need information to deepen their knowledge and improve their skills in their chosen leisure pursuits. The Serious Leisure Perspective (SLP) is a conceptual model that categorises leisure activities and outlines the main components of each category. This paper aims to demonstrate how the SLP can inform policy and practice for public programming and information services across the GLAM sector. To achieve this goal, the author used the SLP as the theoretical framework, reviewed the literature and re-analysed the data pool in his ongoing research trajectory on the informational aspects of serious leisure to address the emergent research questions. The findings suggest that the SLP can inform and transform the policies and practices within the sector in various ways. Firstly, information professionals can benefit from the SLP as a conceptual model to review and revise their current policies and practices. Moreover, they can seek partnerships with local clubs and communities of serious leisure enthusiasts to foster collaboration and use their knowledge and expertise. Finally, adopting the new approach can extend their domain of action from conventional information services to vibrant cultural hubs, which can empower their communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Public library websites provide information about services, programs, and materials. Evaluating what each library website does well or poorly can be done through evaluating how each state compares to one another. This project is a longitudinal study which looks at three sets of data collected during different time periods (2013–14; 2017–18; 2021–22). Forty postgraduate students were used to collect the data through a project management course that involves Work Integrated Learning (WIL) components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conference proceedings are valuable sources for research, providing insights into individual or organisational projects. Australian library and information services (LIS) professionals have the opportunity to contribute to a robust conference culture, including the biennial library technology VALA conference. Practice-driven conferences can offer interpretations of LIS practitioner experiences, however, there is limited research focusing on Australian LIS conference proceedings. The VALA conference papers offer a unique record of technology's impact, influence, and implementation in Australian LIS organisations over the last forty years. This article will outline the objective and methodology of an ongoing research project undertaking historical analysis of VALA conference papers. The research project seeks to examine key themes, theories, and tools discussed in VALA conference papers and will attempt to identify if evolving technology influences the practices and attitudes of Australian LIS practitioners. The article will identify the research methods and the content analysis techniques that will be used in the project, and present preliminary results from a pilot study presented at the 2023 RAILS conference. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper discusses the upgraded data assimilation (DA) wave forecasting system at the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS). Significant wave height (SWH) observations from deep and shallow water buoys in the North Indian Ocean are incorporated into the assimilation system in conjunction with satellite observations from SARAL/AltiKa, Jason-3, Sentinel-3a, and Sentinel-3b. In deep water, satellite DA improved the SWH forecast by ~16%, and the inclusion of buoy observations enhanced it up to ~43% in the initial forecast hours. The impact of satellite DA persists throughout the forecast period of 5 days for swell height, with 11–27% improvement. Ingestion of buoy observations further improved it up to ~31.5% at the 3rd hr forecast. For the wind–sea height, buoy DA resulted in an improvement of 9–26% during the initial 12 hr. In general, the positive impact of buoy DA only lasts till the 30th hr forecast. In shallow water, the impact of satellite DA on SWH prediction is moderate, with positive improvements of 4–7.5%. Adding buoy observations significantly improved it to 10–40% in the initial 12 hr, especially for the low wave heights. Although the buoy DA improved the prediction of wave periods compared to the non-assimilated model, it tends to degrade the forecast compared to the model with satellite DA alone. This points to the limitation of the current assimilation approach in correcting the wave energy distribution in the background spectrum, particularly at higher frequencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Many adolescents believe that online health information is reliable, particularly when they are familiar with the source of information. Objective: To analyse the degree of influence of online health information on high school students' health decisions and examine whether socio‐demographic characteristics, digital literacy, use of different websites and interest in specific health topics are associated with a stronger influence of online health information on adolescents' health‐related decisions. Methods: Participants were students from four public high schools in Belgrade, Serbia. Socio‐demographic and behavioural questionnaire as well as the e‐health literacy scale (eHEALS) were used to collect data. Results: The study sample comprised 702 students. A total of 79.6% of students reported that online health information influenced their health decisions to a certain extent (from 'a little' to 'a lot'). Being a boy, using the internet since younger age, better self‐perceived e‐health literacy, using health apps, Google, health forums, websites of health institutions, social media and YouTube, being interested in diet/nutrition, sexually transmitted infections and cigarettes were the characteristics associated with a stronger influence of online health information on students' health decisions. Conclusion: This study provides clues about how online health‐related information can be used to adjust and enhance health promotion amongst adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inequalities in maternal and perinatal outcomes related to ethnicity and socioeconomic deprivation are widening. Being of Black and Asian ethnicity independently increases the risk of maternal mortality and severe morbidity, as does living in the most deprived areas. Since a higher proportion of women of Asian and Black ethnicity live in the most deprived areas, this effect is compounded. Individual risks, such as obesity, are influenced by health and cultural beliefs and behaviour, social networks and norms, the environments in which we live, and access to and experience of healthcare, which are all intertwined with ethnicity and socioeconomic status. Clinicians can listen to women's and communities needs around ethnicity, race, and social determinants of health. Clinicians can also identify and use networks of community support and promote awareness within their practice and teams. Institutions can employ and retain diverse teams, measure health equity of services and develop an anti-discriminatory institutional culture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Computer Science & Technology (JOCSTEC) is the property of PT. Padang Tekno Corp and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Procesamiento del Lenguaje Natural is the property of Sociedad Espanola para el Procesamiento del Lenguaje Natural and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Introduction. The volume and quality of online health information requires consumers to be discerning. Aim. This study aimed to explore consumer Internet use for health information, preferred format and what factors helped them to trust the source. Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2016–2017 with adults attending three cardiology outpatient clinic sites using a short paper-based survey. The survey included questions regarding online health information use and perceived trustworthiness with opportunities for free text responses. Survey data were summarised with key questions adjusted by age group, gender and ethnicity using logistic regression. Results. Of the 708 respondents (51% women, 66% aged 45–74 years, 16% Māori, 12% Pacific), 73% had sought health information online (64% in the previous 12 months), commonly for medication side effects, their health condition and self-help. Most (65%) were successful, although Pacific respondents reported a lower likelihood of search success compared to Europeans. Younger age groups were more concerned about information quality. Fact sheets (80%) were the most popular format and for all ethnic groups, followed by short videos (31%) and discussion groups (23%). Trusting online information required many strategies with 72% wanting health professionals to recommend websites. Discussion. Online health information seeking is a norm for consumers, with simple fact sheets being the preferred format to build knowledge and skills. With the rising tide of misinformation, health portal providers need to offer accurate and easy-to-read fact sheets in their suite of formats and health professionals need to support consumers guiding them to trusted websites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of tourism activities in the Batur UNESCO Global Geopark has brought many tourists to visit the area. Along with increasing tourism activities, the risk of disasters in the geopark area has also increased. One thing that can be done to reduce disaster risk in the Batur UNESCO Global Geopark area is to utilize geoheritage as a learning medium for disaster risk reduction. In this study, we quantitatively described geoheritage by looking at its relationship with the priority actions of the Sendai framework. The results of the assessment of geological heritage values that have been carried out in 21 geosites of the geopark area show an interrelated relationship. Scientific, educational, tourism and degradation values of geoheritage sites have an important role in conveying information and messages related to disaster mitigation, which is in line with the objectives of Sendai's priority actions. Geological heritage sites can later be developed as an educational medium because it not only has accessibility capital, supporting facilities, good geological conditions, geological diversity, but also contains geological informationthat can be used for education and research. Developing geological disaster information within geoheritage sites in geopark areas may be in the form of geotrails and geotourism activities with the theme of disaster mitigation and earth heritage, picture books for children based on geoheritage information, especially those related to the introduction of geological disasters which are ideal to be developed. A geological information center at the Batur Volcano Museum and other educational acivities can be made within the geopark area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of the Korea Institute of Information & Communication Engineering is the property of Korea Institute of Information & Communication Engineering and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Cultural ancient roads, known in Chinese as gudao, serve as heritage trails that carry historical exchanges across various regions in China. Due to their extensive preservation, wide geographical distribution, diverse thematic variations, and considerable tourist appeal, these paths have emerged as representative heritage trails, increasingly transforming into a novel tourism product experience that is highly favored by tourists and recognized by government authorities. However, research on ancient roads for tourism in China currently lacks a systematic theoretical framework, as well as relevant policies, regulations, and standards to guide their practical development. Therefore, there is a pressing need to draw upon international best practices and conduct foundational research to develop an experience element system that aligns with the perceptions, behaviors, and consumption characteristics of Chinese tourists, thereby advancing theoretical exploration in this field. This study focuses on the representative Ancient Shu Road as a case study and employs a mixed-method approach that integrates qualitative and quantitative research. It aims to construct a tourist-centric scale for the experience elements of ancient road tourism while analyzing the interactive relationship between these experience elements and tourist needs. This study addresses a significant gap in the development of indicator systems for domestic studies of ancient road tourism experiences. Ultimately, the study establishes a comprehensive scale that encompasses three core categories--trail resources and environment, facilities and services, and modes of tourism activities--along with eight primary dimensions: core resources, surrounding cultural environment, surrounding natural environment, tourism reception facilities and services, infrastructure and support services, information facilities and information services, and outdoor and recreational activities. This scale consists of thirty-two specific items, providing a robust reference for future research endeavors. Additionally, the study proposes specific development strategies related to key mechanisms, spatial configuration, and facility construction to enhance the overall development of ancient road tourism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Space-Integrated-Ground Information Networks is the property of Beijing Xintong Media Co., Ltd. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)