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Article
Publication date: 28 September 2012

M. Madhusudhan and V. Nagabhushanam

This purpose of this paper is to present the current state and use of the web by university libraries in India and to examine the web‐based library services offered by some…

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Abstract

Purpose

This purpose of this paper is to present the current state and use of the web by university libraries in India and to examine the web‐based library services offered by some university libraries in different sections via their websites with the help of web‐based library automation software.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was conducted through a structured questionnaire circulated personally among university librarians and the response rate was 100 percent. The responses received from the respondents to 22 questions are presented in the form of tables and figures and analyzed using a simple method of percentages.

Findings

The findings show that many of the surveyed university libraries are yet to exploit full potential of the web forms, and are lagging behind in effective use of library website. A few libraries offer innovative web‐based library services in different sections. This study identified specific ways in which the web helps university libraries to improve and develop innovative and creative web‐based library services. Some key improvements and developments are: there is an urgent need to develop dynamic library websites and incorporate relevant Web 2.0 based services including web forms in each web‐based library service; apply semantic technologies and ontologies; adopt next‐generation internet (IPv6); and provide multi‐language support content. This study also examined institutional characteristics and resources dedicated to web‐based services.

Originality/value

The geographical area of the study was restricted to 20 university libraries in India.

Details

The Electronic Library, vol. 30 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-0473

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 2 February 2015

Shabahat Husain and Mohammad Nazim

– This paper aims to present an exploration of the potential utilisation of different information and communication technologies (ICT) in Indian academic libraries.

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Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to present an exploration of the potential utilisation of different information and communication technologies (ICT) in Indian academic libraries.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey method was used for the collection of data. A structured questionnaire, containing close-ended questions, was sent by postal mail to 30 librarians of the Central University Libraries in India, of which 15 questionnaires were returned.

Findings

Academic libraries in India have mostly been involved in applying traditional ICT-based solutions for the management of various library functions and services, particularly for organising and retrieving information. Use of modern ICT-based tools of knowledge creation and sharing such as web discovery tools, blogs, wikis, Real Simple Syndication feeds, social networking and social bookmarking seems uncommon in academic libraries. Lack of trained staff in ICT, low level of ICT skills among library users, unawareness of potential benefits of ICT and inadequate ICT infrastructure were found as the major barriers of ICT applications in academic libraries.

Practical implications

Academic libraries in India are still in the early stage of understanding the importance of modern ICTs. Librarians should renovate existing library environment and develop knowledge and skills among their staff in the fields of computer programming, website or portal development, hardware maintenance and metadata or e-resource management for providing quality information services to their users.

Originality/value

Because no empirical study on the use ICT-based knowledge management (KM) tools in academic libraries in India has been carried out before, this study closes this gap and provides guidelines for practising librarians, policy makers, management and the University Grants Commission of India to promote the use of ICTs in libraries, and to design courses of information communication technology and related skills.

Details

Library Review, vol. 64 no. 1/2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0024-2535

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 July 2014

Abdul Mannan Khan and Aslam Ansari

– This study aims to examine the effective and efficiency account of social networking (SN) tools and how it affects communication with others and anticipatory awareness.

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Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to examine the effective and efficiency account of social networking (SN) tools and how it affects communication with others and anticipatory awareness.

Design/methodology/approach

For the purpose of the study, a set of questionnaires was prepared by the authors and furnished to information professionals.

Findings

The findings disclose that some SN tools are gaining popularity among Library and Information Science (LIS) professionals in India. The most active professionals are aged 26-35 years; the habits of using SN are different from traditional searches for research purposes. The professionals provide opinion that SN is very effective to deliver LIS.

Research limitations

The present study assesses the role of SN in LIS from information professionals of Indian science and technology institutions.

Originality/value

SN is growing rapidly as a medium of communication between individuals to share their experiences and information regarding interests, and also helps to build ongoing relationships. In the field of LIS services, it may help to develop technology literacy and proficiency.

Details

Library Hi Tech News, vol. 31 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0741-9058

Keywords

Book part
Publication date: 28 September 2023

Akansha Mer and Amarpreet Singh Virdi

The study aims to propose a conceptual Bhartiya (Indian) model of workplace spirituality (WPS) in non-profit organisations (NPOs) in the context of burnout and resilience by…

Abstract

The study aims to propose a conceptual Bhartiya (Indian) model of workplace spirituality (WPS) in non-profit organisations (NPOs) in the context of burnout and resilience by synthesising the concepts of the east and the west. The researchers have kept an open approach by exploring various dimensions of WPS by reviewing the extant literature of both the east and the west. The researchers delved into Bhartiya (Indian) scriptures to identify the concepts that have similarity with the dimensions of WPS so that it may further assist in facilitating those dimensions in NPOs. Furthermore, to propose a conceptual Bhartiya model for NPOs, the researchers synthesised the literature pool of Bhartiya studies on WPS. They examined how WPS decreases burnout and leads to resilience. The study’s findings reveal that concepts from Bhartiya scriptures such as Karm Yog (Nishkam Karm, self-abnegation, swadharm), parasparam bhavayantaha, loksangrah, daivi sampat and kritagyata are instrumental in facilitating the constructs of WPS. Meaningful work is facilitated through karm yog; sense of community is facilitated through parasparam bhavayantaha and loksangrah; and alignment with organisational values is facilitated through daivi sampat and kritagyata. The findings further suggest that WPS is an antidote to burnout and an enabler of resilience.

Details

Digital Transformation, Strategic Resilience, Cyber Security and Risk Management
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-80455-262-9

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 12 October 2015

Stephen B. Perrott and Brandon D. Blenkarn

The purpose of this paper is to examine similarities and differences in motivational-type and sensation seeking tendencies in male and female firefighters and to determine how a…

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine similarities and differences in motivational-type and sensation seeking tendencies in male and female firefighters and to determine how a growing focus on extrinsically focused reasons to volunteer relates to traditional, intrinsically focused rationales.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 160 volunteer firefighters (29 women, 131 men) were compared to 210 undergraduate controls (171 women, 39 men) across a spectrum of motivation and sensation seeking types in a cross-sectional, questionnaire-based, approach.

Findings

Female volunteers showed a distinct pattern of motivations for volunteering and though similar to their male counterparts in Thrill and Adventure Seeking were lower in impulsive sensation seeking. Greater levels of career-focused motivation did not come at the cost of intrinsically focused motivation or to the number of years one projected volunteering.

Research limitations/implications

The approach did not provide the means to check if reported intentions translate to behavioural outcomes and the small number of female firefighters sampled compromised power.

Practical implications

Findings of how female volunteers differ from male counterparts and university women might be considered when developing recruitment drives and formulating policy to modify what is rewarded in firefighting. Findings further suggest that the potential of gaining paid employment is unlikely to compromise traditional reasons for volunteering.

Social implications

Evidence that female volunteers possess a distinct and desirable pattern of motivations and sensation seeking relative to their male counterparts seemingly provides a rationale to target women in recruitment drives that extends beyond bolstering numbers. However, that they were also distinct from university females raises questions about their representativeness and, in turn, about the size of the potential pool from which fire services may draw. Hypothesized concern about the negative impact that volunteering as a means to obtain paid work has on more traditional, intrinsically focused motivations appears to be unfounded.

Originality/value

Moves beyond anecdote to provide empirical evidence of the motivations and sensation seeking tendencies of volunteer firefighters, especially women, and contributes to a nascent area of inquiry about how intrinsic and extrinsic motivation can co-exist in this group.

Details

International Journal of Emergency Services, vol. 4 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2047-0894

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 January 2013

A. Kaveh, H. Rahami, S.R. Mirghaderi and M. Ardalan Asl

In the analysis of some near‐regular structures one can solve the regular part independently and then superimpose the effect of the additional part. For such models, the matrices…

Abstract

Purpose

In the analysis of some near‐regular structures one can solve the regular part independently and then superimpose the effect of the additional part. For such models, the matrices corresponding to regular part have canonical forms and their eigensolution or inversion can easily be performed. The effect of member changing the regular to a near‐regular structure can then be added. The purpose of this paper is to analyze near‐regular structures using the force method.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses the force method, and instead of selecting a statically determinate basic structure (standard method), the paper employs the regular part of the structure as the basic structure.

Findings

A new algebraic method is introduced for the force method of analysis for efficient analysis of large near‐regular structures.

Originality/value

In this paper, the force method is used, however, instead of selecting a statically determinate basic structure, the regular part of the structure is employed as the basic structure. Those additional elements are considered as redundant elements. This method is applied to truss and frame structures. In the present approach it is possible to have missing elements instead of additional elements.

Details

Engineering Computations, vol. 30 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-4401

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 2 March 2015

Mónica García, Mirta Stupak, Miriam Pérez and Guillermo Blustein

The purpose of this paper is to reduce the amount of copper in antifouling paints by using eugenol as an additive. Biofouling leads to deterioration of any submerged material. The…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to reduce the amount of copper in antifouling paints by using eugenol as an additive. Biofouling leads to deterioration of any submerged material. The most widespread method for control is the application of cuprous oxide antifouling paints which are toxic. First of all, the paper describes the effect of eugenol on larvae of Balanus amphitrite (fouling organism) under laboratory conditions and then the preparation, application and performance of different types of antifouling paints in field trials.

Design/methodology/approach

Three types of soluble matrix antifouling paints were prepared with different pigments. The first one containing 16 per cent v/v copper, the second with 1.6 per cent copper and the third with 1.6 per cent copper + 2 per cent eugenol.

Findings

After 12 months of immersion in Mar del Plata harbour paints containing 1.6 per cent copper + eugenol and 16 per cent copper were the most effective. Although these formulations showed a similar performance, copper + eugenol-based paint contains 90 per cent lesser copper than a traditional copper-based formulation.

Originality/value

The use of antifouling paints with copper + eugenol combination as pigment is a promising alternative due to its performance, low cost and reduction in copper leaching to environment.

Details

Pigment & Resin Technology, vol. 44 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0369-9420

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 25 September 2009

Jean‐François Boulet, Ali Gharbi and Jean‐Pierre Kenné

The purpose of this article is to consider a corrective and preventive maintenance model with a view to both minimizing cost and maximizing system availability.

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to consider a corrective and preventive maintenance model with a view to both minimizing cost and maximizing system availability.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed experimental multiobjective approach combines a simulation model and a statistical method to determine the best system parameters. The desirability function is used to convert a multiresponse problem into a maximization problem with a single aggregate measure. The model examined is based on a m identical machines system subject to unpredictable breakdown and repair, and the maintenance strategy used is based on the existing block‐replacement policy, which consists in replacing components upon failure or preventively, at scheduled intervals (T). Spare part inventory management is based on the (S, Q) model, whereby an order is placed when the replacement stock level drops below a given safety threshold level (S). At that time, a replacement part quantity (Q) is ordered, and is received after a stochastic lead time (τ).

Findings

The proposed model jointly minimizes the overall maintenance cost and maximizes system availability using a multiobjective optimization desirability function.

Practical implications

The multiobjective model can be used in a real manufacturing environment to help business decision makers determine the best compromise system parameters and adjust them to obtain desired response variables (overall production cost and system availability).

Originality/value

The proposed model allows the simultaneous optimization of two response variables, and determines the best system parameter compromise between the system cost minimization and the system availability maximization.

Details

Journal of Quality in Maintenance Engineering, vol. 15 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1355-2511

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 September 2005

B.C. Giri, T. Dohi and N. Kaio

To determine the optimal spare part order‐replacement policy for any high cost single unit complex system in a discrete‐time circumstance.

Abstract

Purpose

To determine the optimal spare part order‐replacement policy for any high cost single unit complex system in a discrete‐time circumstance.

Design/methodology/approach

The expected total discounted cost over an infinite planning horizon is taken as a criterion of optimality as it allows us to put emphasis on the present behavior of the system.

Findings

The problem under consideration is a two‐dimensional discrete optimization problem (regular ordering time and inventory time limit for the spare are decision variables) which is difficult to handle, in general. However, it is explored that the problem can be reduced to a simple one‐dimensional one and the optimal ordering time is to be determined under the two extreme situations: no replacement of the spare until the original unit fails and replacement of the spare as soon as it is delivered.

Research limitations/implications

For modeling simplicity, deterministic lead time is considered for both regular and expedited orders. A more appropriate assumption would be to consider randomized lead time for both the orders.

Practical implications

The research provides a useful order‐replacement strategy for a single‐unit system where the failure of the unit is better measured by the number of cycles completed before failure rather than the instant of failure.

Originality/value

The work done in this paper carries certain values as any continuous time model for the problem under consideration can be regarded as only an approximate model.

Details

Journal of Quality in Maintenance Engineering, vol. 11 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1355-2511

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 14 June 2022

Soraiya Ebrahimpour-Koujan, Amir Ali Sohrabpour, Saeid Safari, Nima Baziar, Shima Hadavi, Laleh Payahoo and Samaneh Shabani

Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) is becoming a crucial health problem worldwide. Continued and high-speed mutations of this virus result in the appearance of new…

Abstract

Purpose

Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) is becoming a crucial health problem worldwide. Continued and high-speed mutations of this virus result in the appearance of new manifestations, making the control of this disease difficult. It has been shown that well-nourished patients have strong immune systems who mostly have short-term hospitalization compared to others. The purpose of this study is to review the major nutrients involved in the immune system reinforcement and to explain nutritional aspects during the recovery of COVID-19.

Design/methodology/approach

In this review paper, the mechanistic role of nutrients in boosting the immune system and the nutritional aspects during the recovery of COVID-19 patients were discussed. Papers indexed in scientific databases were searched using antioxidants, COVID-19, inflammation, immune system, macronutrient, micronutrient and probiotic as keywords from 2000 to 2022.

Findings

Because of the adverse effects of drugs like thrombosis, pulmonary embolism and hypercholesterolemia, a balanced diet with enough concentrations of energy and macronutrients could increase the patient's durability. The inflammatory cytokines in a vicious cycle delay patients’ rehabilitation. The main mechanistic roles of micronutrients are attributed to the downregulation of virus replication and are involved in energy homeostasis. Dysbiosis is defined as another disturbance among COVID-19 patients, and supplementation with beneficial strains of probiotics helps to exert anti-inflammatory effects in this regard. Being on a well-planned diet with anti-inflammatory properties could reverse cytokine storms as the major feature of COVID-19. Future studies are needed to determine the safe and effective dose of dietary factors to control the COVID-19 patients.

Originality/value

Being on a well-planned diet with anti-inflammatory properties could reverse cytokine storms as the major feature of COVID-19. Future studies are needed to determine the safe and effective dose of dietary factors to control the COVID-19 patients.

Details

Nutrition & Food Science , vol. 53 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0034-6659

Keywords

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