Library Functions Research Articles

Infrastructure Limitations in School Libraries: Case Study of the ‘Thenmarachchi’ Education Zone, Sri Lanka

School libraries play a vital role in education globally. However, Type-3 elementary schools in the ‘Thenmarachchi’ education zone, in Sri Lanka, face infrastructure challenges. The study examines the infrastructure barriers impeding the functionality of school libraries in the ‘Thenmarachchi’ zone. Employing mixed methods, it investigates the impact of these limitations on libraries and proposes remedies. Social engagement and partnerships with NGOs have emerged as promising solutions to overcome infrastructure challenges affecting school libraries in the zone. Prioritizing investments in these areas, alongside addressing critical infrastructure issues, is crucial to empowering students and enhancing education.

Aren’t we All Student Success Librarians? Defining Your Public Services Role for Your Community (and Your Sanity)

Public services librarians play a pivotal role in the effective functioning of libraries, serving as intermediaries between the library and its community. The scope of their responsibilities is expansive, though often not well defined in their job title or understood by the communities they serve. In this column, the author delves into the intricate tapestry of a public services librarian’s duties and explores different strategies for defining and effectively communicating the specific responsibilities associated with the role and the inherent value they bring to the community. By conducting an in-depth examination of best practices in the field, the author draws on established models that have proven successful in enhancing the visibility and impact of public services librarians while calling upon their own experience in defining their title and role as a Student Success Librarian.

Copyright in the functioning of libraries and archives

The article is devoted to the legal analysis of the features of copyright in the functioning of libraries and archives in Ukraine. It is noted that in the legal framework, the functioning of libraries and archives is closely related to copyright, in particular, in the context of using works stored in the collections of libraries and archives. It is established that the main mechanism required to maintain a balance between the needs of society and the interests of copyright holders is the application of restrictions and exceptions to copyright in the functioning of libraries and archives. The author analyzes the provisions of the Law of Ukraine «On Copyright and Related Rights» No. 2811-IX dated December 1, 2022, and concludes that this law introduces significant changes to the legal regulation of copyright in the functioning of libraries and archives. The author concludes that the Law of Ukraine «On Copyright and Related Rights» includes in the non-exhaustive list of works that may be reprographically reproduced. It is noted that the Law of Ukraine «On Copyright and Related Rights» has expanded the range of entities that can freely use works in their activities. These institutions include libraries, museums with open access to visitors, archives, and organizations for the storage of audio and video recordings. The author concludes that the Law of Ukraine «On Copyright and Related Rights» No. 2811-IX dated December 1, 2022, for the first time legislated the definition of an orphan work and established the basis for legal regulation of orphan works in Ukraine. The analysis of Ukrainian legislation and EU directives regulating copyright issues in the functioning of libraries and archives shows that that the provisions of the Law of Ukraine «On Copyright and Related Rights» are in line with the provisions of Directive (EU) 2019/790 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 April 2019 on copyright and related rights in the Digital Single Market and amending Directives 96/9/EC and 2001/29/EC and Directive 2012/28/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 on certain permitted uses of orphan works.

Scientific libraries in the classification of the state libraries

Typology and classification of libraries is the most actual problem in library science. A great number of specialists have made attempts to solve it; however, the problem remains unresolved. The article discusses the issues of special terminology related to library differentiation. The author focuses on new tendencies in the development of the state library system and the fact that modern library science requires a revision of existing classifications of libraries. The classification proposed by the author is based on the social functions of libraries. The proposed classification allows for outlining the role of scientific libraries within the library system of the USSR.

Role of Dysregulated Immune Biomarkers in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Metastasis: A Systematic Meta-Analysis Review

The liver plays a crucial role in immune system regulation, but dysregulation of immunological networks contributes to chronic liver diseases like hepatocellular carcinoma. This malignant tumor is the third leading cause of cancer death. An imbalanced immune system, characterized by alterations in immune cell count, cytokine levels, and inhibitory receptors, can impact metastasis by suppressing the immune system's ability to fight cancer cells. This study aims to investigate the potential biomarkers playing a crucial role in immune dysregulation resulting in hepatocellular carcinoma metastasis. A comprehensive and systematic literature review was conducted using both free words and search terms. The data extraction was then performed by a thorough literature screening. Next, the meta-analysis was performed using the metabin function of the meta library in R to evaluate the patient cases reporting metastasis in the event group. A total of 1,008 cases were considered, with 357 as events and 651 as nonevents. The results of the meta-analysis demonstrated the significant role of biomarkers in immune dysregulation causing metastasis (risk ratio = 0.54, 95% confidence interval: 0.4972, 0.6048, I 2 = 92.4%, p < 0.01). In addition to the immune dysregulation explored in this study, the impact of tumor size on hepatocellular carcinoma progression and metastasis is a crucial consideration. A notable difference of 41 more cases was reported for larger tumor sizes. The study integrates immune dysregulation biomarkers and tumor size factors influencing hepatocellular carcinoma metastasis, offering valuable insights for future research and therapeutic interventions for improved clinical outcomes.

Design of an image processing system for heterogeneous computer architectures

Embedded real-time image processing systems are widely applied in various fields, enhancing visual experience and making life more convenient. With the development of embedded processors and operating systems, as well as in-depth research into image processing algorithms, the effects and speed of image processing have been significantly improved. This paper proposes an embedded image processing system design based on the current technological developments, centered around the Zybo processor. This includes a collaborative hardware and software design, specific hardware circuit design, and the design of a system software platform. The paper also discusses the establishment of a development environment for the Zybo system, the transplantation of the Linux operating system, the design of the file system, and the application of OpenCV library functions in image processing.

LIME: A LIne MEasuring library for large and complex spectroscopic data sets

Context. The upcoming generation of telescopes, instruments, and surveys is poised to usher in an unprecedented “Big Data” era in the field of astronomy. Within this context, even seemingly modest tasks such as spectral line analyses could become increasingly challenging for astronomers. Aims. In this paper, we announce the release of LIME. This package is tailored for multidisciplinary observations with long-slit and integral field spectroscopy (IFS) support. LIME functions encompass the reading of observational files, detecting lines, conditioned line fitting, and the plotting and storage of results. Most importantly, these measurements are structured to support the subsequent chemical and kinematic analyses. Methods. To reduce the coding effort required from users, we introduced a notation system for atomic transitions that is accessible to humans and machine-readable. Along with this system, we present an extensive database of line bands, spanning from the ultraviolet to the infrared wavelength range. Additionally, we propose a model designed to train machine learning algorithms in line detection. LIME features a comprehensive online documentation, which details the command attributes and includes several tutorials. These tutorials range from measuring a single line to analyzing an entire IFS data cube. Results. This library functions and measurements are showcased in an online virtual observatory. The data in this interactive website come from the JWST NIRSpec observations of the CEERs survey. In this regard, LIME offers improvements related to the dissemination and accessibility of astronomical spectra.

Best practices in wound care for gastrointestinal stoma and colorectal cancer patients from a nursing perspective: A meta-analysis.

Colorectal cancer, a type of colon or bowel cancer, poses a major challenge in the treatment of colorectal lesions. Colorectal endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) is a minimally invasive technique, but the risk of wound infections remains a significant concern. These infections can impede the healing process, affecting daily activities and patient satisfaction. To mitigate the risk of wound infections, various prophylactic measures have been explored, including medication, vaccines, lifestyle adjustments and hygiene practices. This study aims to investigate the prevention of wound infections through prophylactic measures in colorectal EMR. A comprehensive literature review was conducted to identify prophylactic measures that can prevent wound infections. A systematic literature search was conducted using both free words and search terms. The data extraction was performed after a comprehensive literature screening. The meta-analysis was performed using the metabin function of the meta library in R to evaluate the infection incidences in intervention and control groups. A total of 599 infection incidences were considered, with 267 in intervention and 332 in the control group. The results of meta analysis demonstrated significant reduction of wound incidences following the prophylactic measures (risk ratio [RR] = 0.77, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.6747; 0.9016, I2 = 78.5%, p < 0.01). The wound infection ratio analysis also exhibited an approximate 6.6% less infection rate in the intervention group, demonstrating significantly less wound infection following the implementation of prophylactic measures. This study highlights the crucial significance of prevention of wound infections by prophylactic measures in colorectal EMR.

Detecting command injection vulnerabilities in Linux-based embedded firmware with LLM-based taint analysis of library functions

With the popularization of IoT devices, embedded firmware security has attracted people’s attention. Command injection (CI) is one of the most common types of vulnerabilities in Linux-based embedded firmware. It is caused by user input being propagated to functions responsible for command execution without strict sanitization, which can be detected by static taint analysis. Unfortunately, single-binary taint analysis tools cannot find vulnerabilities caused by custom dynamically linked library functions (DLLFs) that are implemented in external library files, while multi-binary analysis tools are time-consuming. In this paper, we present SLFHunter, an approach that leverages Large Language Model (LLM) to analyze sensitive custom DLLFs separately, and imports their information into single-binary taint analysis tools to overcome this challenge. Our approach follows filtering rules to find out sensitive DLLFs that call common sink functions, and analyzes them with LLMs to find sink library functions (SLFs) where input parameters can be passed to executed command strings. Finally, SLFs are marked as new sinks to help existing tools discover CI vulnerabilities caused by them. We implemented SLFHunter as a ChatGPT-based module for EmTaint and evaluated it with a dataset consisting of 100 Linux-based embedded firmware samples from 13 vendors. The results show that our prompts can guide ChatGPT 4.0 to identify SLFs with 95% accuracy after being improved with a trick we dubbed “double-check”. SLFHunter can help EmTaint find 42 additional CI vulnerabilities with an average time cost increase of 89 s on our dataset, which demonstrates the effectiveness and efficiency of our approach.

From big data to intelligent libraries: Leveraging analytics for enhanced user experiences

This paper explores the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) on libraries, evolving them into intelligent, user-centric hubs. Integrating cutting-edge technologies enhances library functions, automating tasks, and personalizing user interactions. The discussion encompasses AI applications in cataloging, search functionality, and personalized recommendations, emphasizing the role of intelligent libraries in improving user experience. While highlighting benefits like task automation and improved efficiency, challenges such as resource investment, job displacement, and ethical considerations are acknowledged. Looking ahead, the paper anticipates deeper AI and ML integration, emphasizing trends like IoT, big data analytics, and augmented reality. The conclusion underscores the need for responsible implementation, balancing technological advancements with ethical considerations, and positioning intelligent libraries as crucial assets in the digital age.

Perpustakaan sebagai pusat kegiatan keilmuan dan pergerakan mahasiswa dalam novel Babel

Introduction. This paper investigates how the academic library's concepts, functions, and roles as the center of scholarly and student activities are portrayed in the novel Babel by R.F. Kuang. Data Collection Methods. This research used Bengtsson’s qualitative content analysis model. Data was collected through an extensive reading and found 111 data that matched with the research focus. Data Analysis. Data were analyzed through decontextualization with open coding and then recontextualized into 89 data to categorize and interpret. Results and Discussion. The library supported students by being portrayed as a learning commons, co-working space, and makerspace; hence it became the scholarly activity center for scholars. Libraries are not portrayed neutral in providing services and tend to limit students’ research scope and public access to information. The libraries are also used for non-academic activities, such as a source of magical power production and knowledge development center, the center of social and student movements. The library representation in the novel is not only a critique towards academia and its information institutions, but also an example of the library’s negative stereotype. Conclusion. From the author's perspective, the library is portrayed as a center for scholarly activities and directly involved in student political life as it becomes the center of student movements.

From tradition to transformation: Academic librarians as key players in online education

The role and function of academic libraries have undergone dramatic changes in the midst of a shifting digital world and a chaotic higher education landscape. Library personnel have made significant progress in staying abreast of these developments and creating new and different ways of engaging with online students and faculty. This paper summarises current research related to the historical roots of academic libraries in higher education, the influences of digital technology (particularly generative artificial intelligence [GenAI]), connections between faculty and academic libraries, relationships between students and academic libraries, and possible courses of action as library personnel continue to make academic libraries a pivotal resource for online faculty and students.

Peran Pustakawan di Perguruan Tinggi Sebagai Partner Riset dalam Pemenuhan Kebutuhan Informasi Pengguna

The role of librarians in higher education as research collaboration partners is a crucial aspect in fulfilling the function of libraries as information centers. This study aims to analyze and identify the role of librarians in higher education as research partners in meeting user information needs. Adopting a qualitative approach through literature study methods, this research investigates how librarians function not only as providers of information resources but also as active collaborators in the research process. In this context, librarians assist in information literacy training, mapping research themes, and providing and managing digital resources that meet current academic and research needs. The findings indicate that collaboration between librarians and researchers strengthens the knowledge infrastructure and enriches research resources, but also faces challenges such as limitations in librarians' research skills, the need for professional development, and funding issues. This study emphasizes the importance of developing librarians' skills in research and information technology to support effective academic and research activities, and highlights the strategic role of libraries in enhancing the quality and effectiveness of research in higher education.

Sire: An interoperability engine for prototyping algorithms and exchanging information between molecular simulation programs.

Sire is a Python/C++ library that is used both to prototype new algorithms and as an interoperability engine for exchanging information between molecular simulation programs. It provides a collection of file parsers and information converters that together make it easier to combine and leverage the functionality of many other programs and libraries. This empowers researchers to use sire to write a single script that can, for example, load a molecule from a PDBx/mmCIF file via Gemmi, perform SMARTS searches via RDKit, parameterize molecules using BioSimSpace, run GPU-accelerated molecular dynamics via OpenMM, and then display the resulting dynamics trajectory in a NGLView Jupyter notebook 3D molecular viewer. This functionality is built on by BioSimSpace, which uses sire's molecular information engine to interconvert with programs such as GROMACS, NAMD, Amber, and AmberTools for automated molecular parameterization and the running of molecular dynamics, metadynamics, and alchemical free energy workflows. Sire comes complete with a powerful molecular information search engine, plus trajectory loading and editing, analysis, and energy evaluation engines. This, when combined with an in-built computer algebra system, gives substantial flexibility to researchers to load, search for, edit, and combine molecular information from multiple sources and use that to drive novel algorithms by combining functionality from other programs. Sire is open source (GPL3) and is available via conda and at a free Jupyter notebook server at https://try.openbiosim.org. Sire is supported by the not-for-profit OpenBioSim community interest company.

Research on Library Space Construction and Services under the Background of Smart Library

The rapid development and application of the new generation of digital intelligence technology, as well as the continuous growth of users' personalized needs, promote the continuous innovation and reform of library functions and services. Especially with the rise of the meta-universe, the service mode of traditional library is undergoing innovation and reshaping from document service to information service, knowledge service and space service. As a "constantly growing organism", in the process of accelerating technological upgrading and deepening humanistic concepts, the concept, connotation, characteristics and construction path of smart space also develop and change. This paper mainly studies the transformation of library space construction and service under the background of the development of new generation technology and the construction of smart library, so as to better guide the development of smart space.

Library as an Educational Institution 1918-1968: Construction of the "New Human" as a Discontinuity in Continuity

The historiographical study analyses libraries as institutions that work with the collective memory of the nations in which they are located while educating all inhabitants. Libraries represent one of the crucial institutions of modern Czechoslovak society. This study focuses on their research from the perspective of the anthropology of institutions. Within the framework of Czechoslovakia, it analyses three stages of historical development: 1918–1938, 1938–1948 and 1948–1968. The study seeks to uncover anthropological patterns that implicitly shape the structure, meaning and methods of functioning of libraries and their social order. It also explains why libraries were essential institutions for Masaryk's Czechoslovakia and the totalitarian communist state. The study shows libraries as an institution with a high degree of historical continuity and, at the same time, discontinuously changing from a place of education for democracy into a means of propaganda and indoctrination.

Digital and socio-demographic aspects of the dissemination of library and information science education

The processes of digitisation in society have an impact on the technological, socio-economic, and demographic aspects of developing and implementing educational programs in the library and information sector. This results in an increased role for libraries, archives, and management structures as educational centers. The article aims to study the patterns of influence that the digitisation of society has on the technological, socio-economic, and demographic aspects of developing and implementing educational programs in library and information science at foreign educational institutions. Research methods are analysis, synthesis, logical generalisations, synchronous section, and content analysis. The findings reveal that the inclusion of educational components on digitalisation and information literacy in bachelor’s and master’s programs, as well as in postgraduate education programs for continuous professional development of specialists, contributes to improving education quality and adherence to educational standards in library and information science. The competitiveness of educational programs is determined by their alignment with labour market needs. The social desirability and status of the library and information science field are contingent upon shifting away from conventional notions regarding its societal function. The institutional functions of academic libraries are evolving as they engage in scientific research as research partners and provide scientific communication services. Innovative pedagogy in library and information science entails adherence to the values of social equity, diversity and inclusivity, and accessible education and research. Libraries are acquiring a dominant status as information and analytical centers. Digital technologies profoundly change the nature of the professional activities of library and archive workers. These trends drive the transformation of higher education towards international educational standards and modernisation of professional education content. The practical significance of the study is that its results can be used to improve and revise educational programs in library and information activities

THE ROLE OF HIGHER VOCATIONAL SCHOOL AND UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES IN THE EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM OF THE REPUBLIC OF NORTH MACEDONIA

The intensive changes in all spheres of social life in general, especially in higher education and its adaptation to the European system of Higher Education, bring serious challenges that all responsible institutions and entities face. Of course, a special role in this direction is played by university libraries that should greatly help in meeting the educational, informational, and cultural needs of the students, but also help in advancing new ways of learning such as lifelong learning, distance learning, and thus help, the student to always be in the spotlight. In that regard, this paper is focused on the capacities, organization, and functioning of university libraries in the Republic of North Macedonia, to obtain relevant data on how ready they are to respond to such modern requests, and how ready they are to take their rightful place within the University.

A modular library for fast prototyping of solution-state nuclear magnetic resonance experiments

Abstract. We present a framework library (Modular Elements, ME) for the development of pulse sequences for Bruker spectrometers. It implements a two-level abstraction approach – the lower level comprises basic functional elements of pulse sequences and the higher one often-reused blocks comprising several evolution periods. The low-level abstractions reduce code duplication between variants of experiments such as hard-pulse and selective variants of individual NMR experiments. The high-level modules enable further reuse of pulse program code and aid in the construction of complex experiments. We show the library's functionality by presenting pulse programs that can be switched between standard and TROSY variants as well as hard and shaped pulses and that can seamlessly incorporate real-time homodecoupling. Adaptability is further demonstrated in a configurable 4D NOESY program.

Role and functions of libraries in the information society

The article discusses the need to change role and functions of libraries, dictated by the challenges of the information society. In the information society, the amount of information is growing exponentially. Besides, the Internet is becoming the main space for aggregating information flows and searching for the necessary sources. In this situation, libraries are experiencing an identity crisis and, in order to maintain their fundamental role in the information system of society, they are faced with the need to change their operations. Therefore, libraries are applying information and communication technologies, especially social media, to create digital collections, to improve information services, as well as to promote libraries in order to attract users and satisfy their needs.