Support Research Activities Research Articles

Improving pharmacy professionals’ research capability and confidence: evaluation of a national e-learning course

Abstract Introduction In 2023, the Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) launched nine collaborative e-Learning modules funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR)1. The modules cover qualitative and quantitative research methods, how to critically analyse evidence, research ethics, research funding, and publishing research findings. The content was designed to improve pharmacy professionals’ research capability and confidence. Aim Eighteen months following the final module’s launch, this evaluation aims to analyse module uptake and user feedback to assesses the impact of the modules on pharmacy professionals’ self-reported research confidence and determine what improvement can be made. Methods All module feedback surveys had the same thirteen questions, focussing on learners’ confidence engaging with research and their thoughts on the length and interactive aspects of the modules. Open-text questions gathered qualitative data on how organisations are supporting research activity and their barriers to undertaking research. E-Learning module data, including number of users, module scores, and feedback survey responses, were exported to Microsoft Excel. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics and open text feedback were themed. Ethical approval was not required as this is a service evaluation. Results As of 06 June 2024, 835 users have enrolled in the RPS’ Research Learning Programme for Pharmacy Professionals course. Module 1 (Introduction to Research) had the highest learner numbers at 567, whereas module 5 (Quantitative methods – data collection and analysis) had the lowest at 49. Average modules scores range from 81.87% for module 3 to 93.73% for module 5. Users’ confidence conducting research noticeably improved after completing the eLearning. The whole course average saw users who rated their confidence engaging with research as “confident” or “strongly confident” raise from 29% to 60% after completing the modules. A mean of 60% of users believed the expected length; however, this value varied, with the lowest value being 48% for module 4 (Research methods – an overview). 96% of all users found activities useful to reinforce learning, and 95% reported that quizzes were "somewhat useful” or “very useful” for testing their understanding. Across all modules, 77% of users shared they would recommend the eLearning to a colleague. This value varied between modules, with the highest being 85% for module 1, and the lowest being 72% for modules 6 and 9. The open-text questions gathered valuable qualitative data. The positive feedback highlighted that users like the interactive format and that the content level was appropriate. However, noted areas for improvement were that the lack of in-module quiz feedback and a measure of success which isn’t self-assessment. Time, staff shortages, and funding were the primary barriers to undertaking research in users’ current roles/organisations. Conclusion The Research Learning Programme for Pharmacy Professionals has been reported by those who completed it to improve their research confidence, and more than three quarters would recommend the e-learning course to others. Further effort is ongoing to further disseminate the eLearning course, and to communicate the importance of understanding all aspects of research to research-active pharmacists, or those that wish to be. Reference 1. Course: The Royal Pharmaceutical Society Research Learning Programme for Pharmacists and Pharmacy Technicians | NIHR Learn. https://learn.nihr.ac.uk/course/view.php?id=1008.

Scholarly apps: enhancing research mobility and accessibility

Purpose This paper aims to explore how scholarly apps are changing the landscape of academic research by increasing mobility, accessibility and user engagement. It assesses the role of mobile-based applications in supporting research activities, enabling access to scholarly content and facilitating seamless communication between researchers and libraries. Design/methodology/approach A brief content analysis of prominent scholarly apps was performed to evaluate their prime features and usability. Findings Scholarly apps improve research mobility by offering on-the-go access to academic resources, databases, communication tools, personalized content recommendations and integrated automated citation tools. The integration of AI and machine learning into these apps holds potential for further personalizing and streamlining research processes. Research limitations/implications Although certain discussed mobile apps are well known and frequently used by users, their value in the field of mobile technology remains significant. Despite their vast popularity, these apps continue to play a significant part in the mobile app ecosystem due to their proven efficacy, widespread acceptance and continuous relevance in meeting user demands. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is one of the first studies to comprehensively evaluate the scholarly apps and contributes to the literature on mobile-based library services.

Doctoral training to support sustainable soil geochemistry research in Africa.

Africa's potential for scientific research is not yet being realized, for various reasons including a lack of researchers in many fields and insufficient funding. Strengthened research capacity through doctoral training programmes in higher education institutes (HEIs) in Africa, to include collaboration with national, regional and international research institutions, can facilitate self-reliant and sustainable research to support socio-economic development. In 2012, the Royal Society and the UK's Department for International Development (now the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office) launched the Africa Capacity Building Initiative (ACBI) Doctoral Training Network which aimed to strengthen research capacity and training across sub-Saharan Africa. The ACBI supported 30 core PhD scholarships, all registered/supervised within African HEIs with advisory support from the UK-based institutes. Our 'Soil geochemistry to inform agriculture and health policies' consortium project, which was part of the ACBI doctoral training programme network, was implemented in Malawi, Zambia and Zimbabwe between 2014 and 2020. The aims of our consortium were to explore linkages between soil geochemistry, agriculture and public health for increased crop productivity, nutrition and safety of food systems and support wider training and research activities in soil science. Highlights from our consortium included: (i) the generation of new scientific evidence on linkages between soils, crops and human nutrition; (ii) securing new projects to translate science into policy and practice; and (iii) maintaining sustainable collaborative learning across the consortium. Our consortium delivered high-quality science outputs and secured new research and doctoral training funding from a variety of sources to ensure the continuation of research and training activities. For example, follow-on Global Challenges Research Funded Translation Award provided a strong evidence base on the prevalence of deficiencies in children under 5 years of age and women of reproductive age in Zimbabwe. This new evidence will contribute towards the design and implementation of a nationally representative micronutrient survey as an integral part of the Zimbabwe Demographic and Health Surveys conducted by the Ministry of Health and Child Care. The award also generated new evidence and a road map for creating quality innovative doctorates through a doctoral training landscape activity led by the Zimbabwe Council for Higher Education. Although our project and the wider ACBI has contributed to increasing the self-reliance and sustainability of research within the region, many challenges remain and ongoing investment is required.

COVID-2019—A Personal Account of an Academic Institute’s Response to the Pandemic

The unprecedented introduction and spread of SARS-CoV-2, responsible for the COVID-19 epidemic, had many varied and unanticipated consequences for the United States and other countries. In addition to the direct effects of human infection, multiple industries, commodities, and jobs were impacted. This review describes the impact on an academic institution, with a chronological account of events related to constantly changing perceptions and understanding of the pandemic. Although a personal account, the objective is to document how leadership was able to adjust to circumstances in order to support research activities, student education, and the academic goals of our land grant university. It is hoped that these examples will inspire and better prepare us for a subsequent event and avoid what for the COVID-19 situation might be summarized as a progression from procrastination-pandemic-panic-pandemonium-endemic

Mapping climate adaptation corridors for biodiversity-A regional-scale case study in Central America.

Climate adaptation corridors are widely recognized as important for promoting biodiversity resilience under climate change. Central America is part of the Mesoamerican biodiversity hotspot, but there have been no regional-scale analyses of potential climate adaptation corridors in Central America. We identified 2375 potential corridors throughout Central America that link lowland protected areas (≤ 500 m) with intact, high-elevation forests (≥ 1500 m) that represent potential climate change refugia. Whereas we found potential corridors in all Central American countries, potential corridors in Panama, Belize, and Honduras were most protected (medians = 64%, 49%, and 47%, respectively) and potential corridors in El Salvador were least protected (median = 10%). We also developed a corridor priority index based on the ecological characteristics and protected status of potential corridors and their associated start and end points. Compared to low- and medium-priority corridors, high-priority corridors (n = 160; top 7% of all corridors) were generally more protected, forested, and distributed across wider elevational gradients and more Key Biodiversity Areas, but also generally linked larger lowland protected areas to target areas that were larger, more protected, and spanned wider elevational gradients. For example, based on median values, high-priority corridors were 9% more protected and overlapped with 2-3 more Key Biodiversity Areas than low- and medium-priority corridors. Although high-elevation targets spanned considerably wider elevational gradients than lowland protected areas (medians = 695 vs. 142 m, respectively) and thus may be more likely to support refugia, they were considerably smaller than lowland protected areas (medians = 11 vs. 50 km2 respectively) and mostly unprotected (median = 4% protection). This initial, regional assessment can help prioritize locations for finer-scale research, conservation, and restoration activities in support of climate adaptation corridors throughout Central America and highlights the need for greater conservation of potential high-elevation refugia.

The Implementation of Digital Humanities in the State Islamic University Libraries in Indonesia

State Islamic University libraries are striving to become research libraries. Since humanities are the core discipline in most State Islamic Universities, a new service concept—digital humanities—has been introduced to support research activities. This study explores the implementation of digital humanities in three State Islamic University libraries: UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta, UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, and UIN Maulana Malik Ibrahim Malang. This research employs a qualitative methodology, utilizing data collection techniques such as interviews, observations, and documentation. The findings reveal that while the libraries have sufficient librarians, their involvement in research activities is not extensive or proactive. Additionally, the facilities and infrastructure necessary to support digital humanities are inadequate. Although policies supporting digital humanities exist, there is a lack of strategic programs to explore and fully enhance library use and involvement in research. Furthermore, internal cooperation between institutions has been established but remains limited, indicating a need for libraries to adopt a more proactive role. These insights underscore the challenges and opportunities in implementing digital humanities within State Islamic University libraries, providing a foundation for future strategic initiatives to enhance their research support capabilities.

290 Are you trust-worthy: Trust-building activities in Translational Sciences

OBJECTIVES/GOALS: Many researchers aim to build trust with communities and participants. Trust building is meant to achieve greater representation across aspects of research whether in participation, or more comprehensively as partners from design to dissemination. We provide practical guidance for trust building activities and the ethical issues that can arise. METHODS/STUDY POPULATION: While trust itself is inherently seen as an ethical good, often little attention is paid to the ethical aspects of trust building exercises themselves and the fact that trust can vary in type. Using a bioethical analysis of trustworthiness, we discuss how to approach trust in different relationships and settings. Explicit communication about the supports/constraints and potential outcomes of new trusted relationships is required for ethical practice. Where relationships are built without appropriate transparency and follow through, or with misunderstandings about potential shared values, priorities, or desired outcomes, significant harms can occur in the short- and long term. Using a bioethical framework and practical examples we provide guidance on how to engage in ethical trust building activities. RESULTS/ANTICIPATED RESULTS: While many people are good at the trust building work they do, this work is often not shared as best practices and is ascribed to individual skill. This is slowly changing and an evidence-base is being developed that can support those new to these activities. Ethical guidance to support trust building practices, especially for those new to these activities, is currently lacking. By providing both a conceptual and normative bioethical analysis grounded in practice, we provide the foundations for new activities and the necessary support for work that explores and determines best practices. This analysis provides an understanding of trust including a taxonomy and a discussion of how different types of trust can be built and can support research activities, as well as problems that can arise. DISCUSSION/SIGNIFICANCE: Trust building activities with communities and participants are crucial to much of translational science and research, but ethical guidance on how to engage in these activities well is lacking. We provide bioethical guidance and offer practical recommendations.

Abstract 7315: Collaboration between NIDCR and NCI promotes innovative research in head and neck cancers

Abstract The Oral and Salivary Cancer Biology Program at National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) supports research activities that improve early detection and treatment of cancers of the oral cavity, pharynx, and salivary glands. We promote basic science research on the regulatory pathways and transformation process of pre-cancerous lesions to primary and metastatic tumors, as well as translational science activities to develop novel technologies and therapeutics for the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of cancers. NIDCR and National Cancer Institute (NCI) have established long-term collaborations to promote and co-manage awards funded through The Immuno-Oncology Translational Network (IOTN) of the Cancer Moonshot program, Specialized Programs of Research Excellence (SPOREs), and Early Detection Research Network (EDRN) program. NIDCR and NCI have co-developed Notice of Special Interest (NOSI) and Request for Application (RFA) on Advancing Head and Neck Cancer Early Detection Research (AHEAD), which co-funded seven research projects to discover and develop molecular signatures of early detection and diagnosis of HPV positive and negative head and neck cancer (HNC). To further strengthen NIDCR and NCI collaboration, we jointly organized the symposium to promote HNC early detection and biomarker identification at the American Head and Neck Society (AHNS) 11th International Conference on Head and Neck Cancer in July 2023. In addition, NIDCR has organized a symposium to promote HNC research at the 2024 annual meeting of American Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research (AADOCR) to celebrate the 75th anniversary of NIDCR. This AADOCR symposium will feature the collaboration between NIDCR with NCI in the Cancer Moonshot program focusing on immunoprevention and immunotherapy, HNC early detection and biomarker research in AHEAD and EDRN, and investigation of HPV positive and negative HNC and clinical translational research under SPORE. At this 2024 AACR annual meeting, NIDCR and NCI program directors will present the collaborations and funding opportunities between NIDCR and NCI, focusing on early cancer detections and biomarker discovery and validation. Collaboration between NIDCR with NCI provides a unique opportunity to promote basic, translational, and clinical research in advancing HNC early detection to benefit cancer patients. Citation Format: Zhong Chen, Wendy Wang. Collaboration between NIDCR and NCI promotes innovative research in head and neck cancers [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 7315.

A KAJIAN LOKASI UNTUK OCEANARIUM DI SURABAYA: KESEIMBANGAN ANTARA WISATA, PENDIDIKAN DAN RISET

This research examines the siting factors of an oceanarium in Surabaya, Indonesia. The research stems from the need to explore the optimal location for an oceanarium, taking into account the main objectives and functions of the development. The research aims to determine the most suitable location for an oceanarium, with recreation, education, conservation and research being the main considerations. The methodology involved a qualitative analysis of location factors, including accessibility, availability of natural resources, and environmental and socio-economic impacts. The discussion in this study emphasizes the importance of choosing a location that not only supports the oceanarium's objectives but also takes into account the availability of quality seawater resources. The ideal location recommended is an area adjacent to a clean source of seawater and protected from contamination, such as a location away from a river mouth. In addition, the location should be easily accessible to visitors and support recreation, education, conservation and research activities. The conclusion of this study shows that the best location for oceanarium development in Surabaya is the coastal area that fulfills these criteria, namely Kenjeran Lama beach and Ria Kenjeran Beach. This location stands out as the most strategic location in terms of access and travel time. These locations not only support the sustainability of the oceanarium in terms of ecology but also provide added value in terms of economy, education, recreation and research. This research provides valuable guidance for future oceanarium development, both in Surabaya and other locations in Indonesia.

Exploring Colonial Heritage (EXCOTAGE) Application as a Mobile Technology-Based History Learning Education

This research focused on the history learning concerns among 11th-grade Social Science students at MAN Kota Pasuruan, a senior high school. To support research activities, the instruments included a questionnaire to measure the effectiveness of the product. The questionnaire was distributed to validators and users, specifically the 11th-grade students of social science at MAN Kota Pasuruan. The participants in this study were selected using purposive sampling for validation and simple random sampling for testing. During the implementation, this research used the ADDIE research and development model. The product effectiveness analysis technique developed by Nunuk Suryani, Achmad Setiawan, and Aditin Putria was used for analysis of the collected data. Based on the comparison results, it is evident that the developed product is truly valuable, appealing, and aligned with the current advancements in learning technology. Meanwhile, in the effectiveness testing, it was concluded that the product has been highly effective based on expert or user assessments.

Application of an innovative approach to the organization of the educational process in higher education and training of applicants 073 and 281 specialties in the conditions of distance education

The study proved and substantiated the importance of innovative approaches and digitalization in the organization of the educational process of higher education. It has been found that the introduction of innovative approaches is a strategically key factor for achieving a high level of quality and efficiency of educational services. In particular, innovative technologies and digitalization allow universities to adapt to modern requirements and create flexible and accessible learning environments. 
 During the study, an analysis of differences in the interpretation of the concepts of «threat» and «risk» was conducted. In particular, it is determined that in education threats and risks can include not only financial difficulties, but also loss of reputation, low quality of education and insufficient competitiveness of graduates. It identifies the main range of problematic issues, sets of innovative approaches in higher education and highlights the principles and stages of diagnosis, which should take into account the specifics of the educational environment and the requirements of the modern labor market for its qualitative assessment. 
 In order to test the research, the article assesses and analyzes the introduction of innovative approaches in the Volodymyr Dahl East Ukrainian National University for the training of applicants 073 and 281 in the field of distance education. The strategic goals chosen to accelerate the digitalization process have been singled out and justified, considering the high standards of quality and the needs of the modern educational environment. The introduction of a digital student card, the creation of a digital educational environment and an increase in the level of digital literacy of students and teaching staff are key areas of the strategy of the Volodymyr Dahl East Ukrainian National University. In addition, innovative approaches have been developed, such as partnerships with technology companies, the creation of electronic libraries and archives aimed at supporting research activities and quality education in distance learning. 
 It provides a SWOT analysis of the Volodymyr Dahl East Ukrainian National University which highlights the main strengths and weaknesses of its functioning, as well as identifies the opportunities and threats faced by the university today in the most difficult conditions of existence. The conducted analysis allows us to draw conclusions and determine the prospects for further research in this direction. 
 In general, the study emphasizes the importance of innovation and digitalization in education as strategic factors contributing to improving the quality, efficiency, and competitiveness of educational institutions in the modern world. 
 The obtained results help to determine the optimal way to achieve the set goals, and their certification with certificates testifies to the importance and effectiveness of the chosen direction of innovative activity at Volodymyr Dahl East Ukrainian National University in the face of high requirements for remote educational process.

Implementing Electronic Medical Records Through Big Data in Healthcare Facilities

Accessibility of information is one of the main benefits of implementing electronic medical records in the world of health. Through electronic medical records, medical information can be accessed quickly, efficiently, and integrated by authorized parties, bringing positive changes in health data management. This study aims to determine the implementation of electronic medical records through big data in health facilities. The research method used a literature study using data based on EBSCOhost, Science Direct, Proquest, and Google Scholar. Inclusion criteria included: 1) Articles in Indonesian and English; 2) Full-text articles; 3) Articles published in 2017-2023. Keywords have been adjusted to Medical Subject Heading (MeSH), namely: “Big Data AND Electronic Medical Records”. The retrieved articles were manually selected and reviewed from the title, keywords section, abstract, and the main context of the articles. The results of a literature study from the database showed that 5 relevant studies related to the implementation of electronic medical records through big data in health facilities have potential opportunities. Potential opportunities for the benefits of big data in health services are divided into 4 groups, including: 1)The quality of health services increased; 2) Supporting health workers in services; 3) Supporting research and scientific activities; 4) Management and business. The implementation of electronic medical records through big data in health services can provide potential opportunities including increased quality of health services, supporting health workers in services, supporting research and scientific activities, as well as management and business.

Researching the research enthusiasts: examining their motivation and the impact of a successful role model

This study delved into the motivations driving young students in Bangladesh to embrace research activities and explored the pivotal influence of successful role models on their research aspirations. We aimed to test the hypothesis that aspiring young researchers are primarily motivated by a desire to enhance their prospects of studying abroad and the successful role models positively influences and motivates these students. Through a survey of students in Bangladeshi high schools and universities, we uncovered that a substantial number of respondents are driven by the prospect of studying abroad and perceive research experience as a valuable asset for university applications. Remarkably, the success stories of role models who leveraged research to secure admissions to prestigious foreign universities have a profound impact on these students, serving as a powerful catalyst for their own research pursuits. Furthermore, this study revealed a remarkable level of interest in research opportunities among Bangladeshi students, even among those who are relatively new to research. These findings shed light on the factors driving the emergence of a burgeoning community of research enthusiasts in Bangladesh and suggest strategies to further promote and support research activities among young students.

Comparing remote versus in-person assessment of learning skills in children with specific learning disabilities.

Interactive telemedicine applications have been progressively introduced in the assessment of cognitive and literacy skills. However, there is still a lack of research focusing on the validity of this methodology for the neuropsychological assessment of children with Specific Learning Disorder (SLD). Seventy-nine children including 40 typically developing children (18 males, age 11.5 ± 1.06) and 39 children with SLD (24 males, age 12.3 ± 1.28) were recruited. Each participant underwent the same neuropsychological battery assessing reading accuracy, speed, and comprehension, writing, numerical processing, computation, and semantic numerical sense, twice (once during an in-person session (I) and once during a remote (R) home-based videoconference session). Four groups were subsequently defined based on the administration order. Repeated-measure-ANOVAs with assessment type (R vs. I testing) as within-subject factor and diagnosis (SLD vs. TR) and administration order (R-I vs. I-R) as between-subject factors, and between-group t-tests comparing the two assessment types within each time of administration, were run. No differences emerged between I and R assessments of reading accuracy and speed, numerical processing, and computation; on the contrary, potential biases against R assessment emerged when evaluating skills in writing, reading comprehension, and semantic numerical sense. However, regardless of the assessment type, the scores obtained with I and R assessments within the same administration time point overlapped. These results partially support the validity and reliability of the assessment of children's learning skills via a remote home-based videoconferencing system. Implementing telemedicine as an assessment tool may increase timely access to primary health care and to support research activity.

Developing research programs that align with the clinical mission

Building a competitive research program within a department of surgery requires a significant commitment by the department and the institution to provide the necessary resources for faculty recruitment, retention of current faculty, and physical space/infrastructure to support research activities. We expanded the academic footprint of our department as demonstrated by the expansion of the department of surgery research funding by 13-fold over a period of 7 years, resulting in an increase in national ranking from 55th place to 10th place in the National Institutes of Health extramural funding. This required attention to multiple factors that affect the ability of faculty to establish and maintain competitive research programs. We executed a plan that established a leadership structure that coordinates resources and provides mentorship to faculty. The department invested heavily in the recruitment of new faculty, especially junior faculty, but also some mid-career and senior investigators to develop a critical mass in specific areas for competitive large grant and program project applications. The pipeline of new trainees interested in research was augmented by successful training grant applications that created a mechanism by which residents and fellows can pursue research for periods ranging from a few weeks to 2 years. Administrative infrastructure was created to assist faculty in grant submissions as well as post-award management. Finally, in partnership with institutional leadership, the department acquired the physical space necessary to support both dry-lab and wet-lab research activities. To achieve true excellence, an academic surgery department must maintain excellence in both the clinical and research areas, which, in the context of an academic medical center, are not separate goals.

Special Experimental Environment for Generation IV Reactors With Graphite Reflector

Abstract Nowadays, there is an increasing demand for new small modular reactors (SMR) reactors with a wide range of applications, often classified as a new Generation-IV reactors. Unfortunately, there is no commercially operating nuclear reactor meeting the characteristics of Generation-IV reactors in its technical design and features. However, Generation-IV nuclear reactors are intensively developed worldwide, including the Czech Republic. To support research activities linked with the development of these reactors, an appropriate experimental environment and resources simulating conditions expected in Generation-IV reactors with graphite are needed This work builds on previous research and presents a special arrangement of the LR-0 reactor core with a double-row graphite reflector, on which the influence of graphite on the neutron field shaping and power distribution was experimentally and computationally verified. The main reason for this article is to investigate the effect of the graphite reflector, which will serve as a support for the development of neutron instrumentation for Generation-IV reactors and other support for Generation-IV research activities. The results confirm the conclusions of previous research and also provide a better knowledge of the double-row graphite reflector neutron field. The presented and tested LR-0 core arrangement is included in a set of experiments supporting the research of reactor cores with graphite reflectors.

Guest editors’ notes

We are excited to note that IASSIST’s Africa chapter has continued to grow bigger and stronger. After a successful first IASSIST Africa Regional Workshop in Uganda during January 2021, a second IASSIST Africa Regional Workshop took place in Ibadan, Nigeria in West Africa October 4th through October 7th, 2022. We are delighted to share with you the papers in this issue, most of which were presented at the second IASSIST Africa Regional Workshop at the University of Ibadan, Nigeria. The first paper unpacks the application of emerging technologies for research support in academic libraries in the modern era. The authors are Dr. Sophia V. Adeyeye and Taofeek Abiodun Oladokun who explain how emerging technologies offer innovative ways of supporting research activities. These emerging technologies provide tools and resources that streamline the research process and ensure proper visibility for the research outputs of academic libraries’ clients. The article explores various areas where academic libraries can apply emerging technologies such as data mining, data management, artificial intelligence, library automation and scholarly communication, among others. The article further highlights the setbacks academic libraries in Nigeria are facing in the application of emerging technologies such as lack of infrastructure, librarians’ skills, and negative attitude towards change. The second article, authored by Ms. Akinyoola Oladoyin Grace, is titled” Knowledge and perception of librarians towards cloud-based technology in academic libraries in Southwest, Nigeria”. In this paper the author reveals that librarians in academic libraries in Southwest Nigeria are familiar with and use cloud-based technologies. However, the librarians seem to have a negative attitude towards the use of these technologies. Therefore, there is a need for a staff development program that would enable the librarians to keep pace with the latest technologies. Such a program could be funded by government and executed through seminars, conferences, and workshops so as to enhance the librarians’ skills with cloud-based technologies. The third paper presents the preservation of election data and security in the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Election malfeasance and violence have been experienced in Nigerian political systems since 1959. In this paper Sunday Tunmibi and Wole Olatokun explore how the world’s gradual move into the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) could be harnessed to ensure the preparation of free and fair elections. The paper suggests specific 4IR technological solutions to electoral data security and preservation challenges. It also suggests policies to serve as catalysts for the Independent National Electoral Commission. Suggested policies for 4IR technologies relate to artificial intelligence, big data, internet of things, robotics, block chain, cloud computing and 3-D printing. These are the 4IR technologies that dictate the pace of activities in all walks of life including security and managing a free and fair national election. In the fourth paper Ologbosere Oluwatosin Abiodun discusses the significance of data literacy in the era of big data. It emphasizes the role of big data as a fundamental building block of truth focusing on the emergence of data literacy. Data literacy is a crucial subset of information literacy necessary for navigating the virtual landscape. Essential data literacy skills that are needed for navigating the dynamic twenty-first-century environment are highlighted. Integrating data literacy into higher educational programs, particularly in libraries, is stressed for relevance in meaningful information resource utilization. This paper shows how the integration of data literacy in higher education emphasizes the critical role of data literacy in the context of economic growth, development and informed decision-making and fosters sustainable development. In the fifth paper titled ”Data protection and right to privacy legislation in Kenya”, author Andrew Matoke Mankome articulates how the Parliament of Kenya enacted the Data Protection legislation in November 2019. This new law guaranteed the right to privacy as a fundamental right. Data Protection and citizens’ right to privacy is now a topical concern in Kenya and around the world. This paper expounds how the new law comes at a time when data security and privacy concerns are prevalent and lack of them result in loss of reputation and identity; safety concerns; legal penalties; and compensation for damages or loss of business. This is mainly because of the increasing globalization, cross-border transactions, internet penetration, and the use of social media and digital platforms among citizens, private institutions, and governments. This paper reviews the crucial provisions of the Data Protection law which covers regulated actions seeking compliance by data controllers and processors under the stewardship of the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner ('ODPC'). A comparative analysis of the practice in other jurisdictions is also provided.

Application of emerging technologies for research support in Nigerian academic libraries: Trends, problems and prospects

Academic libraries in the modern era are often asked to justify their existence in tertiary institutions by showing how the institution and society at large have benefited from the library services. One main area that librarians often point to is the research productivity of members of academic institutions. However, studies have shown that research productivity among Nigerian scholars is low, which means that academic libraries have to be more innovative in supporting researchers in their domains. Emerging technologies offer innovative ways of supporting research activities by providing tools and resources that streamline the research process and ensure proper visibility for research outputs of academic library clients. This article, which is based on a review of previous studies, explores various areas where academic libraries in Nigeria can apply emerging technologies, the likely challenges, and strategies that can be adopted to ensure sustainable use of emerging technologies in academic libraries. It has been found that emerging technologies can enhance existing library services and create new ones, such as data mining, data management, and scholarly communication, among others. However, although steps are being taken by academic librarians in Nigerian tertiary institutions to leverage technology in providing the needed support for researchers, the pace of technology adoption is still slow and the range of technologies being adopted is limited compared to available options. This state of affairs has been attributed to challenges such as lack of infrastructure, librarians’ skills, and a negative attitude towards change. The study recommends a multidimensional approach to the application of emerging technologies in Nigerian academic libraries

The effect of research support capability on researchers’ satisfaction based on the characteristics of institutes

To increase the satisfaction of administrative support for researchers' research immersion, the South Korea (hereafter Korea) has supported research support capacity evaluation (hereafter support capacity evaluation) since 2020. The purpose of this study is to suggest efficiency improvement by empirically analyzing how research support capacity affect researcher satisfaction. To this end, the hypothesis was verified for a total of 196 research support organizations (158 universities and 38 government-funded research institutes). As a result of the analysis, it was found that the capacity to support research activities had a significant effect on the satisfaction of researchers. The analysis results for each sub-variable of independent variables showed that, first, the research support organization operation had a positive (+) effect on the researcher satisfaction. Degree of improvement in researcher treatment and transparency in research fund execution also showed the same results, and R&D rule conformity had a significant effect, but showed a negative (-) relationship. On the other hand, it was found that there was no moderating effect of research support budget size between research support capacity and researcher satisfaction. Based on the above analysis results, improvement for each evaluation index were sought through expert interviews utilizing AHP analysis and semi-structured questionnaires. Finally, the limitations of the study and future research directions were discussed.

Awareness and Utilization of E-Resources to Support Academic and Research Activities

In the 21st century, the widespread adoption of ICT had a profound influence on every aspect of human life. The impact of modern technology has compelled libraries such as public, academic, research, and special to actively embrace the integration of new technologies for cost savings in operations and management of collections. In this era, Libraries are frequently using electronic resources to give teachers and students worldwide improved services for their research and educational activities. Basically, resources are electronic representations of information that are accessible through electronic systems and computer networks. Therefore, the current study needs to examine both students and faculty awareness and utilization towards E-resources. The quantitative research method was used, while using a closed-ended questionnaire. Moreover, for the collection of data a probability sampling method (random sampling method) was used. The data was examined using descriptive and inferential statistics to calculate frequencies and percentages and to discover correlations between variables. The findings revealed that the majority of the faculty demonstrated familiarity with E-resources, somehow, students’ familiarity level is low. Several obstacles were also highlighted in this study that prevent teachers and students from effectively using E-resources. Such obstacles included energy crises, slow speed of internet, and lack of trainings /orientations while accessing and utilizing E-resources. Based on the findings, it is recommended that improvements should be made in the provision of internet facilities, proper power supply and provide trainings in the institutions, to aware about the use of E-resources. This will encourage the utilization of E-resources in the institutions.