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Book part
Publication date: 9 August 2012

Assessment in a Medium-Sized Academic Library: A Success Story

Carolyn Gutierrez and Jianrong Wang

This case study demonstrates the positive changes that evolved from a series of assessment activities. It shows that even smaller libraries can conduct assessment, with…

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Abstract

This case study demonstrates the positive changes that evolved from a series of assessment activities. It shows that even smaller libraries can conduct assessment, with the support of colleagues and the library administration. Librarians can take a proactive role rather than waiting for a mandate from college administration. Two years of LibQUAL+® survey results (2005 and 2008) were analyzed in depth using statistical correlation analyses. Following this, respondents’ comments were categorized by dimension and analyzed to detect correlations. The information collected was then used to track trends and highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the library through the eyes of its users. A comparison of the survey results showed an increase in perceived service in all dimensions. However, user expectations rose even faster, especially with regard to e-resources, equipment, and study space. Positive results about staff expertise and service attitudes demonstrated that users valued the personal attention and capabilities of the library staff. The study shows that a user survey is only the first step in an assessment process. Assessment can be effective only if follow-up actions are taken to address negative feedback and the actions then communicated to all stakeholders. While assessment has become a necessity for many libraries, small- and medium-sized libraries often shy away from it, due to limited resources. The Richard Stockton College Library undertook assessment in areas in which it could expect achievable results. Another outcome came in the form of additional resources, which narrowed the gap between library services and users needs.

Details

Advances in Librarianship
Type: Book
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/S0065-2830(2012)0000035007
ISBN: 978-1-78190-060-4

Keywords

  • Academic libraries
  • library assessment
  • evaluation
  • LibQUAL+®
  • data analysis

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Article
Publication date: 16 July 2010

Explicating inter‐organizational linkages of a host community's events network

Vassilios Ziakas and Carla A. Costa

The purpose of this paper is to examine the inter‐organizational patterns of an events network that shape a host community's capacity to capitalize on its event portfolio.

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the inter‐organizational patterns of an events network that shape a host community's capacity to capitalize on its event portfolio.

Design/methodology/approach

Network analysis was employed to measure the relationships within an events network. The network included nine organizations that participated in the organization of the host community's event portfolio. Data were collected using an instrument adapted from Provan et al. and analyzed using the statistical software for social network analysis, UCINET. Four types of links were measured (shared information, shared resources, help sent, and help received) as well as attitudes toward trust and collaboration.

Findings

Results showed that collaboration was not consistent across all types of links. The most central organizations in the network were the Tourism Department and the Chamber. Shared information was the predominant type of link with other types of links being weaker resulting in low multiplexity scores. Reciprocity among existing links was above average. Finally, the organizations appeared to have high levels of trust and positive attitudes toward collaboration.

Research limitations/implications

An events network can be studied as a measurable mechanism assessing community capacity building in event management and explicating the collaboration patterns in event portfolios that facilitate the joint use of an integrated set of resources for sport and cultural events.

Practical implications

Network analysis can be employed to explore and assess the nature, patterns, and effectiveness of inter‐organizational relationships affecting event planning, implementation, and leveraging.

Originality/value

The paper demonstrates the usefulness of network analysis as a tool for host communities to help build their capacity in event management through the development of local networks. It also suggests that the study of event portfolios provides a suitable context for future research to examine community capacity building in terms of fostering the necessary relationships and synergies to plan, implement, and leverage a series of different events.

Details

International Journal of Event and Festival Management, vol. 1 no. 2
Type: Research Article
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/17852951011056919
ISSN: 1758-2954

Keywords

  • Calendar events
  • Networking

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Article
Publication date: 12 July 2013

Temporal artery biopsy: are we doing it right?

Andrew Pieri, Rob Milligan, Vaidehi Hegde and Colm Hennessy

Temporal artery biopsy (TAB) is the gold standard for diagnosing temporal arteritis; however, sensitivity is relatively poor (30‐40 per cent). The British Society of…

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Abstract

Purpose

Temporal artery biopsy (TAB) is the gold standard for diagnosing temporal arteritis; however, sensitivity is relatively poor (30‐40 per cent). The British Society of Rheumatology (BSR) guidelines state two major factors that can improve sensitivity: TAB specimen size >10mm; and pre‐biopsy steroid treatment <7 days. Owing to the low sensitivity, TA treatment is often commenced/continued despite negative histology. The purpose of this paper is to establish the extent to which TAB results influence clinical management and determine specimen adequacy regarding BSR guidelines.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 55 patients underwent TAB between 2009‐2011. Patients' medical notes were analysed, specifically looking at biopsy specimen size, histology results and steroid therapy duration, pre‐ and post‐biopsy.

Findings

From 55 TABs, three (6 per cent) were positive, 47 (85 per cent) were negative and five (9 per cent) were “inadequate”. Of those patients with negative results, 18 (46 per cent) received > six months steroid treatment. From 50 “adequate” specimens, 31 (62 per cent) were <10 mm and 11 (28 per cent) received > seven days steroid treatment pre‐biopsy.

Practical implications

Despite negative results, many patients went on to receive long‐term steroids. Action must be taken to reduce false and true negative biopsies. False negatives may be reduced by improving adherence to BSR guidance (increased specimen size and early biopsy after commencing steroids). To reduce total true‐negative biopsies, the authors suggest implementing the American College of Rheumatology scoring system, designed to objectify the decision to perform TAB.

Originality/value

This article addresses a common problem seen in most UK hospitals. There is little literature discussing a plausible solution to reducing negative biopsies.

Details

International Journal of Health Care Quality Assurance, vol. 26 no. 6
Type: Research Article
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/IJHCQA-06-2012-0055
ISSN: 0952-6862

Keywords

  • Temporal arteritis
  • Temporal artery biopsy
  • Giant cell arteritis
  • Blood vessels
  • Medical diagnosis
  • Clinical governance
  • United Kingdom

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Article
Publication date: 1 December 2001

Cost model development using artificial neural networks

Qing Wang and David Stockton

In order for the aerospace industry to achieve success in export markets through the provision of high levels of product choice, it will need to develop and economically…

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Abstract

In order for the aerospace industry to achieve success in export markets through the provision of high levels of product choice, it will need to develop and economically use many new materials and manufacturing processes. Examines how the constraints imposed by changing market trends affect the identification of “cost estimating relationships” and investigates their relative benefits and limitations in terms of their effects on the overall cost model development process. A method of establishing cost estimating relationships that appears to offer benefits to the cost modelling process is that of artificial neural networks (ANNs). Using the Taguchi method, a series of experiments have been undertaken to select an appropriate network for the “turning process”. The estimation accuracy and robustness of cost models developed using suitable ANN structures have then been examined under varying conditions in order to identify guidelines.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, vol. 73 no. 6
Type: Research Article
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/EUM0000000006226
ISSN: 0002-2667

Keywords

  • Costs
  • Modelling
  • Development
  • Taguchi methods
  • Neural networks

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Article
Publication date: 7 October 2014

Are adequate fluid challenges prescribed for severe sepsis?

Michael Courtney, Bussa Gopinath, Matthew Toward, Rajesh Jain and Milind Rao

Managing severe sepsis early has several benefits. Correct early management includes delivering an appropriate fluid challenge. The purpose of this paper is to assess…

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Abstract

Purpose

Managing severe sepsis early has several benefits. Correct early management includes delivering an appropriate fluid challenge. The purpose of this paper is to assess whether junior doctors prescribe adequate fluid challenges to severely septic patients.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire outlining three scenarios, each involving a patient with severe sepsis, but with varying weights (50/75/100 kg), was distributed to junior doctors, working in two UK hospitals, managing surgical patients. Participants were asked the fluid volume challenge that they would prescribe for each patient. Responses were compared with the Surviving Sepsis Campaign's recommended volume during the study (20 ml/kg).

Findings

Totally, 77 questionnaires were completed. There were 15/231 (6.5 per cent) correct responses. The median volume chosen in each scenario was 500 ml, equating to 5-10 ml/kg. There was no significant difference between doctor grades (FY1 and SHO) in any scenario. With most junior doctors (FY1), there was no difference in responses according to weight; for SHOs the only significant difference was between the 75 and 100 kg scenarios.

Practical implications

Junior doctors are not following guidelines when prescribing fluid challenges to severely septic patients, giving too little and not adjusting volume according to body weight. This implies that high-prevalence, high-mortality conditions are not being treated appropriately by those most likely to treat these patients. More teaching, training and reassessment is required to improve care.

Originality/value

This, the first case-based survey the authors could find, highlights an issue requiring significant improvement. The implications are likely to be relevant to clinicians in all UK hospitals.

Details

International Journal of Health Care Quality Assurance, vol. 27 no. 8
Type: Research Article
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/IJHCQA-01-2014-0013
ISSN: 0952-6862

Keywords

  • Education
  • Clinical guidelines
  • Junior doctor
  • Survey
  • Fluid challenge
  • Sepsis

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Article
Publication date: 1 April 1980

Online document retrieval system education for undergraduates: rationale, content and observations

Glenn R. Lowry

A course in basic information retrieval principles and use of online document retrieval systems is a curriculum requirement for undergraduate computer science students at…

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Abstract

A course in basic information retrieval principles and use of online document retrieval systems is a curriculum requirement for undergraduate computer science students at Stockton State College in New Jersey. A combination of theory‐oriented lectures and online search sessions using DIALOG enables students to observe course principles in action. An undergraduate course of this type differs significantly in content from those normally offered in graduate library schools in one primary area; while most students in graduate library schools are presumably aware of the functions and issues of index languages and library operations, undergraduate computer science students need to be taught the basics of these subjects. A corequisite course insures student background in the design requirements of deterministic data retrieval systems. This background provides a useful framework in which to explore index language limitations and design features of document retrieval systems which must provide multiple access points. The course has been enthusiastically received as evidenced by student participation, anonymous student evaluations and requests for the development of subsequent courses designed to prepare students for careers in the online information retrieval service environment.

Details

Online Review, vol. 4 no. 4
Type: Research Article
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/eb024040
ISSN: 0309-314X

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Article
Publication date: 1 March 2004

Games/gaming/simulation in a new media (literature) classroom

Scott Rettberg

Discusses some practical issues involved in teaching new media studies in a literature classroom, focusing on the necessity of teaching literature students to consider the…

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Abstract

Discusses some practical issues involved in teaching new media studies in a literature classroom, focusing on the necessity of teaching literature students to consider the language of gaming in the study of new media literary forms, on teaching collaborative writing for the electronic media as a form of writing game, and on considering contemporary computer games in a cultural studies context.

Details

On the Horizon, vol. 12 no. 1
Type: Research Article
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/10748120410540481
ISSN: 1074-8121

Keywords

  • Information media
  • Literature
  • Internet
  • Education

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Article
Publication date: 12 June 2017

Influencer identification in Twitter networks of destination marketing organizations

Jane F. Bokunewicz and Jason Shulman

Destination marketing organizations (DMOs) use Twitter to promote attractions and special events and to build brand awareness. Tweets of a DMO spread through a complex…

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Abstract

Purpose

Destination marketing organizations (DMOs) use Twitter to promote attractions and special events and to build brand awareness. Tweets of a DMO spread through a complex network of connected accounts. Some of these are more influential than others due to their position within the network. This paper aims to use a network analysis of 14 DMOs to identify the categories of influencers that have the greatest reach.

Design/methodology/approach

NodeXL was used to download and analyze network data from Twitter during July 2016 for a collection of DMOs promoting US cities. Accounts in the networks were ranked using several measures of relative influence such as the number of times the accounts mentioned/retweeted others or were mentioned in posts about the DMO. The most influential accounts in the network were identified and coded by category.

Findings

Media, promotional accounts and those of individuals were determined to be influential by each metric considered. Stakeholders such as hotels and restaurants occupy positions of low importance in the networks and generally do not capitalize on opportunities provided by the DMOs.

Practical implications

DMOs can seek out strategic partnerships with key influencers to maximize their effectiveness. Additionally, stakeholders can improve their Twitter presence by interacting with the DMOs and other influential accounts.

Originality/value

This paper identifies influencers that can aid in DMOs’ marketing campaigns. It also presents a methodology that can monitor the effectiveness of such campaigns, something absent in the current literature.

Details

Journal of Hospitality and Tourism Technology, vol. 8 no. 2
Type: Research Article
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/JHTT-09-2016-0057
ISSN: 1757-9880

Keywords

  • Twitter
  • Social network analysis
  • Network
  • Destination marketing
  • Influencer marketing

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Article
Publication date: 14 March 2016

The perfect fit? Being both volunteer and ethnographer in a UK foodbank

Kayleigh Garthwaite

The purpose of this paper is to explore both volunteer and ethnographer in a Trussell Trust foodbank in Stockton-on-Tees, North East England during a period of welfare…

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore both volunteer and ethnographer in a Trussell Trust foodbank in Stockton-on-Tees, North East England during a period of welfare reform and austerity. It shows how ethnographic researchers can develop a more effective qualitative understanding of foodbank use through volunteering.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodological design was ethnographic both in terms of data collection and analysis. Volunteering and participant observation began in November 2013 and is ongoing. The data presented are derived from field notes of participant observations.

Findings

Tensions are present when considering how best to write up ethnographic research when the researcher adopts a “volunteer ethnographer” role. The negotiation of relationships, practices, and emotions requires the researcher to appreciate the complex and “politicized” discourse surrounding foodbank use in order to report how the foodbank operates in an objective yet truly reflective way.

Originality/value

There is an expanding research interest in the growth of foodbanks. This paper offers unique insights into the value and tensions of adopting the dual role of “volunteer ethnographer” when researching foodbank use in the UK.

Details

Journal of Organizational Ethnography, vol. 5 no. 1
Type: Research Article
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/JOE-01-2015-0009
ISSN: 2046-6749

Keywords

  • Boundaries
  • Emotion
  • Foodbank
  • Reflexive
  • Trussell Trust
  • Volunteer

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Article
Publication date: 1 April 1973

SPARTAN STEEL & ALLOYS LTD. v. MARTIN & CO. (CONTRACTORS) LTD.

M.R. Denning, Edmund Davies and L.J. Lawton

June 22,1972 Damages — Remoteness — Negligence — Economic loss — Contractors damaging cable supplying electricity to factory — Physical damage to metal in factory's…

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Abstract

June 22,1972 Damages — Remoteness — Negligence — Economic loss — Contractors damaging cable supplying electricity to factory — Physical damage to metal in factory's furnace as result of power cut — Loss of profit from “melt” and from further melts which would have taken place if no power cut — Whether economic loss recoverable — Whether economic loss attaching to physical loss recoverable — Doctrine of parasitic damages.

Details

Managerial Law, vol. 14 no. 1
Type: Research Article
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/eb022193
ISSN: 0309-0558

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