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AbstractThe practice of information technology (IT) in academic libraries is changing rapidly, not only with new and evolving developments in the technologies themselves but also with the organization and management of IT at both the library and institution levels. This study presents the results of an online survey of Association of Research Libraries (ARL) academic library members to identify the biggest challenges they perceive in the area of information technology organization and management. This article compares their responses with challenges reported in earlier studies to identify new and changing trends as well as ongoing challenges that remain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital heritage portal interfaces are generally similar to digital library and search engine interfaces in displaying search results as a list of brief metadata records. The knowledge organization and search result display of these systems are item-centric, with little support for identifying relationships between items. This paper proposes a knowledge graph system and visualization interface as a promising solution for digital heritage systems to support users in browsing related items, understanding the relationships between items, and synthesizing a narrative on an issue. The paper discusses design issues for the knowledge graph, graph database, and graph visualization, and offers recommendations based on the authors' experience in developing three knowledge graph systems for archive and digital humanities resources: the Zubir Said personal archive collection at the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, Singapore; Singapore Pioneers social network; and Polyglot Medicine knowledge graph of Asian traditional and herbal medicine. Lessons learned from a small user study are incorporated in the discussion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the potential of the Gamified Metaverse as a platform for promoting library services. The study compares the effectiveness of a traditional library program with a Metaverse- based library program in terms of knowledge acquisition and library anxiety. The research also examines students' perceptions of implementing gamification within the context of the Gamified Metaverse platform. A mixed-methods approach was adopted, including pre- and post-test analysis, statistical analysis, and qualitative data collection. The results indicate that both the traditional and Metaverse-based library programs effectively increased the participants' knowledge, with no significant difference between the two approaches. However, the Metaverse-based program was found to be less effective in facilitating interaction with librarians and reducing library anxiety. Additionally, students expressed positive perceptions of implementing gamification in the Gamified Metaverse platform, finding it engaging and motivating. These findings contribute to the understanding of the effect of the Metaverse as a tool for promoting library services and enhancing knowledge acquisition. However, it is not as effective in reducing library anxiety, particularly in terms of interaction with librarians and staff. It should be noted that the platform may have limitations such as high costs and potential side effects of virtual reality, making it more suitable as an additional tool for promoting library services, taking into account its feasibility and potential benefits for specific student populations and larger libraries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In public libraries, especially those in rural settings, it is important that every dime of library funding is leveraged effectively into serving the community. As part of a year-long project beginning in January 2023, we are evaluating item-level cost-effectiveness for each circulating item housed at the public library in Lakeville, Indiana. Through the use of big(ish) data, some custom Python scripting, and machine learning algorithms we hope to answer: How much money is saved by library patrons through their use of the public library's physical collection? How much money is saved by the community through the operation of a public library based on the use of the circulating collection? And are there any non-obvious traits which make an item or title a more or less cost-effective circulating asset? In this column, I will describe the scripts, share initial findings, discuss challenges, and investigate next steps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In terms of utility and technical quality, open-source software solutions have become a common option for many libraries. As barriers to adoption have been reduced and systems such as FOLIO appear poised to change the landscape of LIS technology, it is worth examining how the use of open source can support the normative core values of librarianship and to outline a strategy for critical engagement with the technology that is beneficial to patrons and libraries. Such a strategy will require further codification, institutionalization, and investigation of open source at many levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2020, Libraries and Cultural Resources (LCR) at the University of Calgary used Qualtrics XM to design and pilot a point-of-use survey to collect user feedback on the usability of our implementation of Primo, Ex Libris's web-scale discovery service. Over a two-week period, users were presented with the pop-up survey while searching and asked to provide feedback. This article summarizes how we designed and implemented this point-of-use survey and the lessons learned from this project. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At the University of Memphis, a team of librarians and library staff formed the Research Guides Redesign Team (RGRT) to redesign, organize, and evaluate the University Libraries' (UL) research guides. The purpose of the project was to ensure that the new design of the research guides homepage was intuitive to use. While it is impossible to ensure absolute usability for every user, this usability study attempts to eradicate the most common interface issues in community experiences at the University of Memphis. The RGRT conducted usability testing to evaluate the effectiveness of the new standardized format, grouped headings, and the appearance of the interface. The RGRT worked within the limitations of Springshare's software to create the design and then chose five users to complete various task scenarios. Upon analysis of the users' ability to complete the tasks, the RGRT discovered that overall, the design was effective, but they did make a few minor changes. This study describes the process and includes the original design, the new design, edits made after usability testing was conducted, and plans for future testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2021, the assessment-data management librarian at Lehman College Library decided to conduct a privacy audit of the Library's public computers and networks. This audit comprised one of the Library's two annual formal assessments of resources and services. The American Library Association's (ALA) Library Privacy Checklist for Public Access Computers and Networks was selected to review 17 key items related to protecting user privacy and confidentiality. Faculty and staff from Circulation, Library Technology, and Online Learning identified 10 indicators needing work. Suggestions are provided for collaboratively resolving these issues and future steps are described to continuously maximize the online security of the campus community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the rapid pace of change and the high cost invested in information technology, it is important for academic libraries to evaluate the information technology solutions they use in their institutions to determine whether they are meeting the needs of their students, faculty, staff, and other users of their libraries and resources. This study presents the results of an online survey of Association of Research Libraries (ARL) academic library members to benchmark the assessment strategies that they used to evaluate their IT activities. This article compares their responses with earlier studies to identify trends and make recommendations for effective assessment practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Technology use is widespread in the lives of children and families, and parents and caregivers express concern about children's safety and development in relation to technology use. Children's librarians have a unique role to play in guiding the technology use of children and families, yet little is known about how public library programs facilitate children's digital literacy. This study sought to uncover librarians' purposes for using technology in programs with young children as well as the supporting factors and barriers they encountered in attempting to do so. Findings reveal 10 purposes for integrating technology into public library storytime programs and 15 factors across four dimensions that facilitate and/or inhibit its inclusion. If librarians are to embrace the media mentor role with confidence and the necessary knowledge and skills required of the task, much greater attention should be devoted to the responsibility and more support in the way of professional development and resources is necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate the gap between library users' expected and perceived library services and to examine the role of library services in developing user satisfaction and loyalty. A quantitative research design using a questionnaire was used to investigate the research objectives. Undergraduate students were selected as the population from the Information Technology University. The questionnaire was adopted from previous literature. It was pilot tested with 50 undergraduate students and found reliable. Data was collected from 304 respondents and were analyzed using SPSS (v.20) software. The study found that library users expected a high level of service in three categories, i.e., Affect of Service, Information Control, and Library as a Place, as all mean scores were higher than 7 when rated against a scale from 1 to 9. The participants reported that they were likely to consult the library and recommend it to others. The structural equation model confirmed that better services will increase users' satisfaction with the library resources and services and will lead to winning users' loyalty. The findings from the study provided useful insight into the determinants of user satisfaction and loyalty and could be useful for other academic libraries seeking ways to increase user loyalty and user satisfaction with library resources and services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insect monitoring is pivotal for assessing biodiversity and informing conservation strategies. This study delves into the complex realm of insect monitoring in the Global South—world developing and least-developed countries as identified by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development—highlighting challenges and proposing strategic solutions. An analysis of publications from 1990 to 2024 reveals an imbalance in research contributions between the Global North and South, highlighting disparities in entomological research and the scarcity of taxonomic expertise in the Global South. We discuss the socio-economic factors that exacerbate the issues, including funding disparities, challenges in collaboration, infrastructure deficits, information technology obstacles and the impact of local currency devaluation. In addition, we emphasize the crucial role of environmental factors in shaping insect diversity, particularly in tropical regions facing multiple challenges including climate change, urbanization, pollution and various anthropogenic activities. We also stress the need for entomologists to advocate for ecosystem services provided by insects in addressing environmental issues. To enhance monitoring capacity, we propose strategies such as community engagement, outreach programmes and cultural activities to instill biodiversity appreciation. Further, language inclusivity and social media use are emphasized for effective communication. More collaborations with Global North counterparts, particularly in areas of molecular biology and remote sensing, are suggested for technological advancements. In conclusion, advocating for these strategies—global collaborations, a diverse entomological community and the integration of transverse disciplines—aims to address challenges and foster inclusive, sustainable insect monitoring in the Global South, contributing significantly to biodiversity conservation and overall ecosystem health. This article is part of the theme issue 'Towards a toolkit for global insect biodiversity monitoring'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

No study has systematically investigated the public's perceptions of cyber risks and their relationship with the acceptance of fully Connected and Automated Vehicles (CAVs). To address this knowledge gap, we developed a conceptual model and investigated the impact of the cyber-emulated risks (cyberattack, safety risk, connectivity risk, privacy risk, and performance risk) that may influence the adoption of CAVs. We tested the proposed model using structural equation modelling with a nationally representative sample of 2062 adults from the US, UK, New Zealand, and Australia. The results indicate that perceived cyberattacks had a significant but marginally neutral effect on usage intent, illustrating the acceptance of technical risk with CAVs. This finding challenges the commonly held belief that cyberattacks negatively influence the adoption of products and technology in other product development fields, such as information technology. CAV cyberattacks elevate concerns about safety, connectivity, privacy, and performance risks. Interestingly, connectivity risk had no significant impact on CAV's behaviour intention, but mediation analysis showed it indirectly affects CAV's acceptance through privacy and performance risks. Regarding socio-demographic and technological attributes, participants of older age, middle income, low-middle education, high cybersecurity knowledge and AV understanding exhibit high anxiety about CAV cyberattacks. The results hold significant policy implications, suggesting the need for tailored strategies in enhancing the cybersecurity of CAVs to ensure their successful adoption and deployment. The findings of this study aim to enhance the quality of transport policy and bridge the gap between theory and practice in addressing cyber risks in the transport sector. • Developed a conceptual model with five theoretical constructs to assess the perceived cyber risks in AV adoption. • A nationally representative sample of 2062 adults from the US, UK, NZ, and AU was analysed to test the model. • Cyberattacks had a significant but marginally neutral effect on usage intent. • Older and middle-income participants exhibit high anxiety about CAV cyberattacks. • Participants with high cyber or AV knowledge were more worried about CAV cyberattacks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the factors influencing the implementation of blockchain in logistics in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), including security, privacy, end-user benefits, quality control, technology infrastructure, and lack of general awareness. A mixed-methods approach was used, with data collected through survey questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. The research targeted logisticians in the UAE's supply chain department, using random probability sampling and a sample size of 151 for surveys and using purposive sampling for recruiting 10 experts. Using SPSS 24.0, the Pearson Correlation analysis revealed a strong association between blockchain in logistics and IT infrastructure and awareness of blockchain in the UAE logistics sector. Exploratory factor analysis showed a significant difference towards the security of data in the implementation of blockchain in the logistics sector in the UAE. This research suggests that implementing blockchain technology in UAE logistics companies can enhance data security and quality control, influencing managers' decisions positively and recommends prioritizing data security and quality control. The study's geographical context emphasizes its contribution in the research area showing the importance of considering cost, benefits, security, IT infrastructure ownership, and awareness aspects in the adoption of blockchain technology in supply chain management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cybersecurity is a growing concern for maritime sector. Modern ships are practical realism of cyber physical systems that utilize both information technologies and operational technologies. Cybersecurity incidents on such systems require robust and explainable models that should provide deep insights about the nature of an attack. Many frameworks for modeling of cyber attacks exist, but they cover only the tiny part of modern multidimensional attack surfaces. MITRE ATT &CK is the most comprehensive cyber attack modeling framework that covers the multidimensional nature of modern cyber attacks. MITRE D3FEND is similar to ATT &CK knowledge base, but it represents cyber defense framework. In this paper, we aim to demonstrate the modeling with MITRE ATT &CK and MITRE D3FEND frameworks for maritime cybersecurity. An attack scenario against ballast water management system of the ship is considered and modeled with the help of ATT &CK. Moreover, two defensive mechanisms are suggested. First is created with the help of D3FEND framework and second leverages the strength offered by mitigation techniques of ATT &CK. We believe that the demonstration of MITRE ATT &CK and D3FEND frameworks for modeling of maritime cyber attacks and maritime defense, respectively, would pave the way for the development of future maritime cybersecurity solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In health policy, much attention has been paid to collaboration between the primary and secondary health care sectors, especially in relation to hospitalisation and discharge. Despite ideal plans for collaboration, the research literature shows that inadequate communication is a well‐known problem that can be a barrier to a safe trajectory for the citizen. Based on the assumption that better knowledge of each other's work will lead to better collaboration, a cross‐sectoral exchange program with nurses was initiated. Aim: The aim was to investigate which barriers to good patient trajectories the involved nurses attributed to cross‐sectoral collaboration and what impact the exchange to the opposite sector had for them. Methods: Twenty‐eight nurses were exchanged: 14 from a cardiology department and 14 from municipal home care. The nurses shadowed a colleague from the opposite sector in their daily work. Subsequently, six focus group interviews were conducted. The transcribed material was analysed based on Ricoeur's interpretation theory. Results: Two main themes, including sub‐themes emerged: (1) Challenging communicative conditions: (a) Inadequate digital communication, (b) Inadequate care plans and discharge reports, (c) Conversation promotes understanding, and (d) Challenging collaboration and communication with the discharge coordinators. (2) Perceived importance of the exchange: (a) Cross‐sectoral relationship, prejudice and gaining respect for each other and (b) Working in two different worlds. Conclusion: Electronic communication is inadequate, and the IT systems do not support sufficient cross‐sectoral communication. The organisational model in the municipal care sector is inflexible in terms of allocations for the current needs of citizens, and professionals feel that their professional judgements are not recognised. The nurses gained insight into each other's work and working conditions and respect for each other's professionalism. The exchange has the potential to both improve the relationship and communication between the sectors for the benefit of a better and more coherent patient course. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, there is no comprehensive picture of the global surveillance landscape. This survey examines the current state of surveillance systems, levels of integration, barriers and opportunities for the integration of surveillance systems at the country level, and the role of national public health institutes (NPHIs). This was a cross-sectional survey of NPHIs. A web-based survey questionnaire was disseminated to 110 NPHIs in 95 countries between July and August 2022. Data were descriptively analysed, stratified by World Health Organization region, World Bank Income Group, and self-reported Integrated Disease Surveillance (IDS) maturity status. Sixty-five NPHIs responded. Systems exist to monitor notifiable diseases and vaccination coverage, but less so for private, pharmaceutical, and food safety sectors. While Ministries of Health usually lead surveillance, in many countries, NPHIs are also involved. Most countries report having partially developed IDS. Surveillance data are frequently inaccessible to the lead public health agency and seldomly integrated into a national public health surveillance system. Common challenges to establishing IDS include information technology system issues, financial constraints, data sharing and ownership limitations, workforce capacity gaps, and data availability. Public health surveillance systems across the globe, although built on similar principles, are at different levels of maturity but face similar developmental challenges. Leadership, ownership and governance, supporting legal mandates and regulations, as well as adherence to mandates, and enforcement of regulations are critical components of effective surveillance. In many countries, NPHIs play a significant role in integrated disease surveillance. Article in a tweet : Our multicountry survey found disease surveillance systems globally are at different levels of maturity but face similar challenges, for example, in leadership, governance, legal mandates, and resourcing. In many countries, NPHIs play a key role in supporting integrated disease surveillance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bulletin board system (BBS) significantly changed the production and transmission of knowledge in China's information technology (IT). Launched in 1991, Chinese FidoNet (CFido) provided a virtual space for hobbyists to explore technology-for-fun and aggregated many future Chinese digital entrepreneurs, enabling them to experiment with business models and pursue open-source software with Chinese characters. CFido's short history (1991–1998) also encapsulates the fast-changing dynamic between knowledge and its social context. CFido participants first perceived the BBS as a utopian "pure land" where grassroots intellectuals could develop software and digital technologies, free from outside interests and interventions. Yet the beginning of government control of cyberspace, the boom of the IT industry and e-commerce, and the transition from the dial-up BBS to the Internet led the CFidoers to diverging positions about amateurs and ultimately brought CFido to an end. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioimage data are generated in diverse research fields throughout the life and biomedical sciences. Its potential for advancing scientific progress via modern, data‐driven discovery approaches reaches beyond disciplinary borders. To fully exploit this potential, it is necessary to make bioimaging data, in general, multidimensional microscopy images and image series, FAIR, that is, findable, accessible, interoperable and reusable. These FAIR principles for research data management are now widely accepted in the scientific community and have been adopted by funding agencies, policymakers and publishers. To remain competitive and at the forefront of research, implementing the FAIR principles into daily routines is an essential but challenging task for researchers and research infrastructures. Imaging core facilities, well‐established providers of access to imaging equipment and expertise, are in an excellent position to lead this transformation in bioimaging research data management. They are positioned at the intersection of research groups, IT infrastructure providers, the institution´s administration, and microscope vendors. In the frame of German BioImaging – Society for Microscopy and Image Analysis (GerBI‐GMB), cross‐institutional working groups and third‐party funded projects were initiated in recent years to advance the bioimaging community's capability and capacity for FAIR bioimage data management. Here, we provide an imaging‐core‐facility‐centric perspective outlining the experience and current strategies in Germany to facilitate the practical adoption of the FAIR principles closely aligned with the international bioimaging community. We highlight which tools and services are ready to be implemented and what the future directions for FAIR bioimage data have to offer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Broadband infrastructure significantly boosts urban innovation. • Internet penetration rate and information technology (IT) industry are the two impact channels. • The influence of broadband infrastructure on urban innovation has significant heterogeneity. • Broadband infrastructure has a stronger effect on radical innovation than on incremental innovation. • The impact of broadband infrastructure on urban innovation has spatial spillover effect. Broadband infrastructure plays a key role in supporting innovation. This paper takes the "Broadband China" demonstration policy as a quasi-natural experiment, adopts the data of 284 cities and multi-phase Difference-in-Differences (DID) approach to explore the impact of broadband infrastructure on urban innovation. We find that broadband infrastructure significantly boosts urban innovation, the increase of internet penetration rate and the development of information technology industry are the two influence channels. Heterogeneity tests show that the boosting effect of broadband infrastructure on innovation are stronger in eastern cities, large cities, key cities and cities with better educational resources. We also find that broadband infrastructure plays a stronger role in promoting radical innovation than incremental innovation, and the "Broadband China" demonstration policy produces a positive spillover effect on nearby cities' innovation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents an analysis of seven articles published within the International Perspectives and Initiatives regular feature series on the impact of technology on the provision of health information. The articles provide a road map of how technology is facilitating new and enhanced services for library users in seven countries: Australia, Bangladesh, China, England, Germany, Sweden and the United States. Although there are differences in how countries are implementing technological solutions, only one describes problems in leveraging technology to improve library services. Authors from the remaining six countries describe how they ensure that the 21st century library consults with its user groups and find way of using the latest applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the potential benefits of using existing information and communication technologies (ICT) in the hospitality industry to improve hotel operations. The study focuses on the use of Internet Protocol Private Branch eXchange (IP/PBX) technology in selected hotels in Spain and Portugal. The researchers conducted interviews and surveys with managers and staff members to assess the impact of ICT knowledge and use on staff processes, productivity, and satisfaction. The results indicate that a deeper understanding and utilization of ICT resources can lead to improved performance and job satisfaction in the hospitality industry. [Extracted from the article]

Technological interventions are increasingly popular methods of targeting and preventing loneliness in older adults. Research has identified various factors that influence the willingness and propensity of older adults to integrate technology into their social lives and the ways in which this may enhance their social connectedness. Given prevalence rates and negative outcomes associated with loneliness for this population, further research is warranted to clarify the mechanisms through which technological interventions may decrease loneliness. This study aimed to better understand the perspectives of older adults on the role of technology in their social relationships in later life. Four focus groups were conducted with 27 older adults, aged 65–80 years. Transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis, and results were validated via written participant feedback. Participants reported technology as one of many tools used to maintain their social relationships. Their choice to use technology for social interaction was influenced by their estimation of effort required, likely quality of the interaction, and the privacy and security provided. These factors were the same as those that influenced decisions to use other methods (e.g. face-to-face meetings). Based on the results, we recommend that loneliness interventions should be technology-agnostic and multifaceted, providing a wide range of tools that recognise the technological competencies of older adults and supporting different interaction types to meet the preferences of the individual. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A practical test that measures the information and communication technology (ICT) skills students need for effectively using ICT in primary education has yet to be developed (Oh et al., 2021). This paper reports on the development, validation, and reliability of a test measuring primary school students' ICT skills required for effectively using ICT (the ECC‐ICT test). Objectives: Based on existing literature, three ICT use domains were identified for effectively using ICT: Effective, collaborative, and creativeuse of ICT. For these three domains, 24 corresponding teaching objectives were identified from a widely used digital literacy framework. Thirty‐four test items cover these teaching objectives in an online test. Methods: A mixed‐method approach was used for the ECC‐ICT test. Four pilot rounds (n=25) implemented qualitative interviews for cognitive validity and refining the test items, followed by a qualitative usability study(n=6). Confirmatory factor analysis and ANOVA provided quantitative insight into the large‐scale test administration(n=575). Results and Conclusions: Composite reliability of our conceptual 3‐factor confirmatory model showed that the test reliably measured primary school effective use of ICT (ω = 0.82), collaborative use of ICT (ω = 0.80) and creative use of ICT (ω = 0.64). Convergent validity (ranging from 0.41 to 0.46) was acceptable. Internal consistency (ranging from 0.84 to 0.91) and discriminant validity (HTMT values below 0.90) are good. ANOVA results show that mean test scores are higher for students in higher grade levels (p < 0.001). The post hoc Bonferroni results show that most grade‐by‐grade comparisons are significant (p < 0.001). Lay Description: What is already known about this topic: Information and communication technology (ICT) skills are finding their way into national curriculums as teachers implement more digital learning environments.Teachers currently do not have a measurement instrument for the ICT skills primary education students need to learn in a personalised way. What this paper adds: This paper gives teachers a test that reliably measures the effective, collaborative, and creative ICT skills required for primary school students to learn using ICT.To our knowledge, this test is the first of its kind.Al materials to reproduce the test are available digitally for teachers. The implications of study findings for practitioners: For policy, this test can be used to check if a student is ready to use ICT in a self‐regulated setting.With this test, teachers can assess and support students' growth on the effective, collaborative, and creative ICT skills required for primary school students using ICT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Leadership development, career advancement, and collaboration among scholars are essential to nurturing nursing research excellence and sustainability. The Midwest Nursing Research Society (MNRS) has incorporated several strategies to advance nursing science and to increase the pool of future nurse leaders. In this article, we describe the process, activities, and outcomes of the Leadership Academy (LA), an innovative initiative from MNRS developed to identify, engage, and nurture future generations of leaders. Methods: For the LA 2022 to 2023 period, the MNRS leaders selected a cohort of 5 nurse scholars and engaged them in activities to develop, enhance, and advance their leadership skills. By following the LA purposes, the cohort participated in monthly meetings with MNRS leaders, received individual mentoring sessions, assessed strengths and areas for further development, attended seminars, participated in a book club, and implemented a cohort project that focused on the promotion and support of early career scholars. Results: Outcomes showed increased knowledge about organizational governance, direction, and resource development; leadership confidence culminating with leadership positions inside and outside MNRS; career development plans; engagement with board members, and enhanced networking. Moreover, the cohort members planned and executed a well-attended conference special session that engaged a large group of scholars to discuss challenges and opportunities for career development at the MNRS Annual Conference. Conclusion: The MNRS LA is a thriving organizational initiative that promotes engagement and leadership skills development thereby increasing the pool of candidates confidently prepared to lead the nursing profession. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is tempting to assume that because effectiveness metrics have free choice to assign scores to search engine result pages (SERPs) there must thus be a similar degree of freedom as to the relative order that SERP pairs can be put into. In fact that second freedom is, to a considerable degree, illusory. That is because if one SERP in a pair has been given a certain score by a metric, fundamental ordering constraints in many cases then dictate that the score for the second SERP must be either not less than, or not greater than, the score assigned to the first SERP. We refer to these fixed relationships as innate pairwise SERP orderings. Our first goal in this work is to describe and defend those pairwise SERP relationship constraints, and tabulate their relative occurrence via both exhaustive and empirical experimentation. We then consider how to employ such innate pairwise relationships in IR experiments, leading to a proposal for a new measurement paradigm. Specifically, we argue that tables of results in which many different metrics are listed for champion versus challenger system comparisons should be avoided; and that instead a single metric be argued for in principled terms, with any relationships identified by that metric then reinforced via an assessment of the innate relationship as to whether other metrics are likely to yield the same system‐versus‐system outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A recent National Academies report recommended that health systems invest in new infrastructure to integrate social and medical care. Although many health systems routinely screen patients for social concerns, few health systems achieve the recommended model of integration. In this critical case study in an urban safety net health system, we describe the human capital, operational redesign, and financial investment needed to implement the National Academy recommendations. Using data from this case study, we estimate that other health systems seeking to build and maintain this infrastructure would need to invest $1 million to $3 million per year. While health systems with robust existing resources may be able to bootstrap short-term funding to initiate this work, we conclude that long-term investments by insurers and other payers will be necessary for most health systems to achieve the recommended integration of medical and social care. Researchers seeking to test whether integrating social and medical care leads to better patient and population outcomes require access to health systems and communities who have already invested in this model infrastructure. (Am J Public Health. 2024;114(6):619–625. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2024.307602) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the information construction and taking a hospital as an example, this paper analyzes the current situation, existing problems, and reasons for financial management. This paper puts forward the scheme of optimizing hospital financial management and points out that accounting, asset management, cost management, and performance are all based on accounting. Even though with the continuous improvement and development of hospital informatization, various infrastructures have been built, the problems are more prominent. This can be solved by improving the focus on the products, and processes by reducing waste, or by increasing the quality. In hospitals, the core layer of hospital information technology is the financial management construction and development, and it is also an indispensable factor. It is better to improve the hospital's financial fine management level and promote the hospital's sustainable development. It is not enough to improve the assessment management and comprehensive budget management. It is necessary to integrate the perfect Health Information System, enterprise resource planning system, scientific research system, and structured query language database, establish a comprehensive financial management platform, and obtain data information and indicators of various economic operations in hospitals. Experiments show that the consumables sorting optimization algorithm in this paper can improve the equipment management of medical finance to some extent. In other aspects, this system also incorporates information technology to make enhancements to the original financial management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores how information and communication technologies (ICTs) influence transforming attitudes toward intimate partner violence (IPV) and women's empowerment in Pakistan and Nepal. By analyzing data from married women using recent Demographic and Health Surveys, the research reveals that owning multiple ICTs is associated with decreased experiences of physical IPV and reduced acceptance of wife-beating. Notably, increased ownership of ICTs corresponds to heightened participation in household decisions. Furthermore, regular internet use further diminishes the likelihood of experiencing physical IPV and justifying wife-beating. These findings underscore ICTs' potential to empower women, reshape gender norms, and enhance decision-making autonomy. The study advocates for gender-inclusive policy interventions that leverage the transformative influence of ICTs in fostering positive sociocultural changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To describe patients' experiences of the quality of counselling to develop new digital counselling solutions for patients with cerebrovascular disease. Design: A descriptive, qualitative approach. Methods: Semi‐structured in‐person interviews were conducted among 22 patients diagnosed with acute cerebrovascular disease and treated as inpatients at a single university hospital in Finland between September 2021 and February 2022. Data were analysed using deductive and inductive content analysis. Results: The identified facilitators, barriers and possible solutions for the development of new digital counselling solutions were deductively categorized into five main categories: (1) background factors, (2) resources, (3) implementation, (4) sufficiency, and (5) effects and 12 generic categories. Patients with cerebrovascular diseases worry about symptoms affecting their ability to receive information and valued a supportive atmosphere. Staff should have more time for counselling and use motivational digital counselling solutions in plain language, moderate length and with multimedia content. Patients desired reminders, easy search functions and possibilities for two‐way communication. Conclusion: New digital counselling solutions could be beneficial in supporting the patients' knowledge, emotions and adherence. For the success of such solutions, patients' special needs concerning different levels of cognitive impairment need to be considered. Impact: The results of this study may benefit healthcare organizations in the development of digital counselling solutions that meet the patients' needs. Reporting Method: We have adhered to relevant EQUATOR guidelines with the COREQ reporting method. Patient or Public Contribution: Patients were involved as the study population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To examine the effectiveness and safety of a data sharing and comprehensive management platform for institutionalized older patients. Methods: We applied information technology-supported integrated health service platform to patients who live at long-term care hospitals (LTCHs) and nursing homes (NHs) with cluster randomized controlled study. We enrolled 555 patients aged 65 or older (461 from 7 LTCHs, 94 from 5 NHs). For the intervention group, a tablet-based platform comprising comprehensive geriatric assessment, disease management, potentially inappropriate medication (PIM) management, rehabilitation program, and screening for adverse events and warning alarms were provided for physicians or nurses. The control group was managed with usual care. Co-primary outcomes were (1) control rate of hypertension and diabetes, (2) medication adjustment (PIM prescription rate, proportion of polypharmacy), and (3) combination of potential quality-of-care problems (composite quality indicator) from the interRAI assessment system which assessed after 3-month of intervention. Results: We screened 1119 patients and included 555 patients (control; 289, intervention; 266) for analysis. Patients allocated to the intervention group had better cognitive function and took less medications and PIMs at baseline. The diabetes control rate (OR = 2.61, 95% CI 1.37–4.99, p = 0.0035), discontinuation of PIM (OR = 4.65, 95% CI 2.41–8.97, p < 0.0001), reduction of medication in patients with polypharmacy (OR = 1.98, 95% CI 1.24–3.16, p = 0.0042), and number of PIMs use (ꞵ = − 0.27, p < 0.0001) improved significantly in the intervention group. There was no significant difference in hypertension control rate (OR = 0.54, 95% CI 0.20–1.43, p = 0.2129), proportion of polypharmacy (OR = 1.40, 95% CI 0.75–2.60, p = 0.2863), and improvement of composite quality indicators (ꞵ = 0.03, p = 0.2094). For secondary outcomes, cognitive and motor function, quality of life, and unplanned hospitalization were not different significantly between groups. Conclusions: The information technology-supported integrated health service effectively reduced PIM use and controlled diabetes among older patients in LTCH or NH without functional decline or increase of healthcare utilization. Trial registration: Clinical Research Information Service, KCT0004360. Registered on 21 October 2019. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The logistics industry plays a crucial role in facilitating regional economic development. Serving as a vital link connecting producers, consumers, and various components of the supply chain, it has a direct and profound impact on the prosperity and advancement of regional economies. Based on the panel data of 11 provinces in the Yangtze River Economic Belt from 2016 to 2020, this paper constructs the logistics capability evaluation index system from four aspects: regional economic base, logistics infrastructure, logistics development scale, information technology and talent support, and uses the entropy weight TOPSIS method to measure the logistics capability of each province. The adjacency space weight matrix, geographical distance weight matrix and economic distance weight matrix are selected to build a spatial econometric model to analyze the influencing factors and spatial spillover effects of regional logistics capability. The following conclusions can be drawn from the analysis. From 2016 to 2020, the regional logistics capacity of the Yangtze River Economic Belt shows a trend of increasing year by year, but the logistics capacity of different provinces within the region has a large room for improvement. From the perspective of spatial dimension, the logistics capacity of the Yangtze River Economic Belt is "high in the east and low in the west". The results of spatial econometric analysis based on the spatial Durbin model show that there are significant spatial spillover effects on the logistics capacity of provinces in the Yangtze River Economic Belt. Factors such as road network density, port throughput, water freight turnover, transportation, warehousing and postal employment will not only affect the logistics capacity of the region, but also have a spillover effect on the material capacity of neighboring provinces in the Yangtze River Economic Belt. This study improves the level of regional logistics capacity and promotes the regional economic development of the Yangtze River Economic Belt. It can be used as a reference for other regions or countries in terms of enhancing regional logistics capacity and promoting regional economic development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives. The scarce empirical and scientific information concerning evidence-informed management reports various benefits for nurse managers, including reduced staff turnover, enhanced working environments, and improved patient outcomes and policy implementation. This review summarizes best available evidence on facilitating utilization of evidence-informed management practices by nurse managers in healthcare facilities. The review could assist in a comprehensive overview of determinants that could assist nurse managers' successful utilization of evidence-informed management. Methods. An integrative review of the literature was conducted, including peer-reviewed articles published between 2010 and 2022. The databases used were BioMed Central, CINAHL Complete, MEDLINE Complete, PubMed (via EBSCOhost), the Complimentary Index (Taylor and Francis, Elsevier, Wiley, and Springer), Sabinet, ScienceDirect, and Scopus, followed by a manual search using Google Scholar and a citation search. Johns Hopkins Nursing Evidence-based Practice Research and non-Research evidence tools were used for appraisal. Thematic analysis was used to synthesize the extracted data. Results. Based on thirteen determinants influencing nurse managers' utilization of evidence-informed management practices, three themes were identified from a total of thirteen relevant studies: (1) Nurse manager determinants in utilization of evidence-informed management (Microlevel); (2) Organizational determinants in utilization of evidence-informed management (Mesolevel); (3) External stakeholders and context determinants of utilization of evidence-informed management practices (Macrolevel). Conclusion. The themes were found to be interconnected and interdependent, facilitating the effective utilization of evidence-informed management by nurse managers at micro-, meso-, and macrolevels, but highlight the need for strengthening health systems and support. Future studies are required to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the determinants influencing nurse managers' utilization of evidence-informed management practices. Implications for Nursing Management. For nurse managers to optimally utilize evidence-informed management, executive management and policymakers require to provide resources and support such as continuous education, incentives, effective communication, funding structures, and ownership. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the digital age, firms should continually innovate and adapt to remain competitive and enhance performance. Innovation and adaptation require firms to take a holistic approach to their corporate structuring to ensure efficiency and effectiveness to stay competitive. This study examines how corporate restructuring impacts firm performance in Vietnam. We then investigate the moderating role of digital transformation in the corporate restructuring–firm performance nexus. We use content analysis, with a focus on particular terms, including "digitalization," "big data," "cloud computing," "blockchain," and "information technology" for 11 years, from 2011 to 2021. The frequency index from these keywords is developed to proxy the digital transformation for the Vietnamese listed firms. A final sample includes 118 Vietnamese listed firms with sufficient data for the analysis using the generalized method of moments (GMM) approach. The results indicate that corporate restructuring, including financial, portfolio, and operational restructuring, has a negative effect on firm performance in Vietnam. Digital transformation also negatively affects firm performance. However, corporate restructuring implemented in conjunction with digital transformation improves the performance of Vietnamese listed firms. These findings largely remain unchanged across various robustness analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of the digital information era, the impact of "The Internet Plus," "Big Data," and other technologies on urban social development has been far beyond any preceding era, under the influence of information technology, urban agglomeration space exhibits a new layout. Based on the search engine data of eleven cities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area from 2012 to 2021, this research constructs the inter-city information network strength linkage matrix to examine the evolution characteristics of city network structure and its driving causes. The results reveal that (1) the overall information linkage strength exhibits a pattern of steadily growing the radiating effect from the leading cities of Guangdong, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong to the surrounding cities, and a closer and more balanced information linkage network is gradually built. (2) Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong-Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area information linkage absolute control advantage, four cities Foshan, Dongguan, Zhuhai, Macao regional hub position steadily highlighted. The entire information connection network of the urban agglomerations tends to be flat and polycentric at the same time. (3) The regional core-edge hierarchy is well established, with the four cities of Guangzhou, Dongguan, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong creating a northwest-southeast orientation. The core metropolis regions of Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao in the Greater Bay Area increasingly exert a radiation spreading effect to the northeast and southwest. (4) The urban economy, transportation distance, and information infrastructure have substantial effects on the information connection intensity network of urban clusters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the process of urban development, there is large-scale laying of underground pipeline networks and coordinated operation of both new and old networks. The underground concrete drainage pipes have become a focus of operation and maintenance due to their strong concealment and serious corrosion. The current manual inspections for subterranean concrete drainage pipelines involve high workloads and risks, which makes meeting the diagnostic needs of intricate urban pipeline networks challenging. Through advanced information technology, it has reached a consensus to intelligently perceive, accurately identify, and precise prediction of the condition of urban subterranean drainage networks. The development process of detection and evaluation methods for underground concrete drainage pipe networks is the focus of this study. The study discusses common algorithms for classifying, locating, and quantifying pipeline defects by combining the principles of deep learning with typical application examples. The intelligent progression of information collection methods, image processing techniques, damage prediction models, and pipeline diagnostic systems is systematically elaborated upon. Lastly, prospects for future research of intelligent pipeline diagnosis are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Rare disease registries (RDRs) are valuable tools for improving clinical care and advancing research. However, they often vary qualitatively, structurally, and operationally in ways that can determine their potential utility as a source of evidence to support decision-making regarding the approval and funding of new treatments for rare diseases. Objectives: The goal of this research project was to review the literature on rare disease registries and identify best practices to improve the quality of RDRs. Methods: In this scoping review, we searched MEDLINE and EMBASE as well as the websites of regulatory bodies and health technology assessment agencies from 2010 to April 2023 for literature offering guidance or recommendations to ensure, improve, or maintain quality RDRs. Results: The search yielded 1,175 unique references, of which 64 met the inclusion criteria. The characteristics of RDRs deemed to be relevant to their quality align with three main domains and several sub-domains considered to be best practices for quality RDRs: (1) governance (registry purpose and description; governance structure; stakeholder engagement; sustainability; ethics/legal/privacy; data governance; documentation; and training and support); (2) data (standardized disease classification; common data elements; data dictionary; data collection; data quality and assurance; and data analysis and reporting); and (3) information technology (IT) infrastructure (physical and virtual infrastructure; and software infrastructure guided by FAIR principles (Findability; Accessibility; Interoperability; and Reusability). Conclusions: Although RDRs face numerous challenges due to their small and dispersed populations, RDRs can generate quality data to support healthcare decision-making through the use of standards and principles on strong governance, quality data practices, and IT infrastructure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]