Library Technology Research Articles

Chemical Space Profiling of SARS-CoV-2 PLpro Using DNA-Encoded Focused Libraries.

DNA-encoded library (DEL) technology is gaining attention for its rapid construction and deconvolution capabilities. Our study explored a novel strategy using rational DELs tailored for the SARS-CoV-2 papain-like protease, which revealed new fragments. Structural changes post-DEL screening mimic traditional medicinal chemistry lead optimization. We unveiled unique aromatic structures offering an alternative optimization path. Notably, we identified superior binding fragments targeting the BL2 groove. Derivative 16 emerged as the most promising by exhibiting IC50 values of 0.25 μM. Derivative 6, which features an aromatic fragment capped with a naphthalene moiety, showed IC50 values of 2.91 μM. Molecular modeling revealed hydrogen bond interactions with Lys157 residue and potential covalent interactions with nearby amino acid residues. This research underscored DEL's potential for fragment-based drug discovery against SARS-CoV-2 protease.

Beyond reality: metaverse technologies revolutionizing libraries and elevating user engagement

PurposeThis study aims to provide insight into the usage of metaverse technologies in libraries, examining their impact on library service user engagement and assisting in unique promotion and marketing techniques for the metaverse setting.Design/methodology/approachThis study used a literature review approach to synthesize current scholarly material on metaverse technologies and their practical applicability in the library context. It gathered academic literature from Emerald, Web of Science, Scopus and Google Scholar databases to construct a strong foundation for the study from journal articles, which were retrieved using the researcher’s “search string.”FindingsMetaverse technologies are reshaping the idea of smart libraries, offering innovative approaches to interact with information resources and delivering users progressively immersive and dynamic learning experiences. This in-depth investigation adds to a better understanding of the emerging link between metaverse technology and library professionals. It bridges the gap between libraries and users, transcending geographical boundaries and enabling libraries to serve a global audience. It anticipates metaverse-infused academic libraries welcoming new methods of engaging with their users with interactive capabilities to create a unique environment to explore library resources in an interactive marketing approach.Originality/valueThe metaverse is not only the future but also the future of libraries. This research fills the gap by advancing the literature on cutting-edge library technologies and empowers users to become reflective and well-informed information producers. It also helps library stakeholders engage with their audience in new and impactful ways and explore innovative marketing strategies tailored to the metaverse environment.

Recent Progress in Peptide-Based Molecular Probes for Disease Bioimaging.

Recent strides in molecular pathology have unveiled distinctive alterations at the molecular level throughout the onset and progression of diseases. Enhancing the in vivo visualization of these biomarkers is crucial for advancing disease classification, staging, and treatment strategies. Peptide-based molecular probes (PMPs) have emerged as versatile tools due to their exceptional ability to discern these molecular changes with unparalleled specificity and precision. In this Perspective, we first summarize the methodologies for crafting innovative functional peptides, emphasizing recent advancements in both peptide library technologies and computer-assisted peptide design approaches. Furthermore, we offer an overview of the latest advances in PMPs within the realm of biological imaging, showcasing their varied applications in diagnostic and therapeutic modalities. We also briefly address current challenges and potential future directions in this dynamic field.

Beyond the pages: unleashing holograms and holographic technology in Caribbean academic libraries

PurposeThis paper is intended to spark discourse on the impact of holograms and holographic technology on libraries and the possibility of their usage in Caribbean academic libraries for assisting users, especially those from the physically challenged community, as well as distance library users.Design/methodology/approachA thorough assessment of literature was done of all academic and higher institution libraries across the English-speaking Caribbean to determine the effective use of holograms and holographic technology in Caribbean libraries. Literature from several developed countries was studied, paying keen attention to the emerging holograms and holographic technology and the plausibility for inclusion and exploitation by academic libraries.FindingsRevealing the possibilities for fostering great levels of efficacy, as well as saving time and reducing the possibility for inefficiencies in the system through smoother check-in and check-out while offering more accountability.Research limitations/implicationsThis research focused primarily on holograms and holographic technology that can assist libraries and their users in the near future. It further attested to the need for there to be greater consideration for physically challenged individuals and their access to material from the library.Originality/valueThis paper is the genesis for discussion surrounding holograms and holographic technology in the English-speaking Caribbean. It sought to bring awareness to the possible uses of holograms while exploring the practical implications of its use in libraries across the English-speaking Caribbean.

Factors influencing the adoption of robotic technologies in academic libraries: A systematic literature review (SLR)

The study aimed to identify the factors influencing the adoption of robotic technologies in academic libraries, investigate the impact of robots on library services, and reveal challenges to adopt robotic applications in academic libraries. A systematic literature review was applied to address the study’s objectives. The 16 most relevant seminal studies published in peer-reviewed journals were selected to conduct the study. Findings displayed that the factors of innovation, advancements in artificial intelligence, library security, and personalized services influenced positively the adoption of robotic technologies in academic libraries. The study also illustrated that robots had a significant positive impact on academic libraries by performing a variety of roles, solving space issues, and providing entertainment to library patrons. Results also revealed that loss of critical thinking, technical issues, lack of organizational planning, financial hurdles, fear of job loss, shortage of skilled manpower, and ethical considerations caused barriers to the successful implementation of robotic applications in academic libraries. The study has added valuable literature to the existing body of knowledge. It is the first systematic literature review on the factors influencing the adoption of robotic technologies in academic libraries. It has provided practical solutions in light of evidence-based data for the effective adoption of robotic technologies in academic libraries.

Embracing 3D and immersive technologies in digital libraries: interview with Gabriele Guidi

Embracing 3D and immersive technologies in digital libraries: interview with Gabriele Guidi

DNA-Compatible Cyclization Reaction to Access 1,3,4-Oxadiazoles and 1,2,4-Triazoles.

DNA-encoded chemical library (DECL) technology is a commonly employed screening platform in both the pharmaceutical industry and academia. To expand the chemical space of DECLs, new and robust DNA-compatible reactions are sought after. In particular, DNA-compatible cyclization reactions are highly valued, as these reactions tend to be atom economical and thus may provide lead- and drug-like molecules. Herein, we report two new methodologies employing DNA-conjugated thiosemicarbazides as a common precursor, yielding highly substituted 1,3,4-oxadiazoles and 1,2,4-triazoles. These two novel DNA-compatible reactions feature a high conversion efficiency and broad substrate scope under mild conditions that do not observably degrade DNA.

Conversational AI Chatbots in library research: An integrative review and future research agenda

The growing role of conversational AI Chatbots continues to change the library and information service landscape. Chatbots are replacing some of the library services that humans conventionally perform. In the era of instant evolution of artificial intelligence (AI), the role of Chatbots in libraries keeps expanding and acquiring more experience. This paper aims to examine the extant research on library Chatbots using an integrative literature review (ILR) approach. Empirical and non-empirical papers from the Scopus database to ascertain what is already known about the topic. Forty papers (articles and conference papers) were scrutinized for further analysis. The leading emergent themes in the literature were (1) The evolution of Chatbots technology in libraries, (2) Antecedents for Chatbot use in libraries, (3) User experience with Chatbot use in libraries, (4) Chatbot use in libraries amidst COVID-19, and (5) Challenges facing Chatbot use in libraries. Research on Chatbots in library services is still embryonic and has only begun to flourish. Nevertheless, there is still a significant research gap despite its surging curve. The findings of this integrative review contribute to the body of knowledge on the nexus between artificial intelligence and library operations. It also furnishes academics and practitioners with six potential directions for future research opportunities.

Contemporary Library and Artificial Intelligence Technology

Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly prevalent in libraries as a means of enhancing services and improving performance. The implementation of AI aims to create computer systems and machines that can think and act like humans, thus presenting both challenges and opportunities for libraries. AI is already being utilized in various ways within libraries, such as expert systems for reference services, robots for book shelving, and virtual reality for immersive learning experiences. Despite concerns that AI may replace librarians, it is actually facilitating libraries to become more efficient and provide better services. As technology rapidly advances in today's digital age, AI is expected to play a significant role in transforming libraries and adapting to the changing needs of society. The role of libraries is evolving, and they are embracing AI to enhance their performance and services.

<i>Book. Reading. Media</i> is a Space of Knowledge Related to a Person Who Reads, Writes and Media

The purpose of the article is to introduce the editorial policy, mission and plans of the new journal, established by the State Public Scientific and Technological Library of the Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences (SPSTL SB RAS) in 2023. The Book. Reading. Media is called to become a platform for representatives of various scientific disciplines who study books, readers and media in the past and present. The article contains the opinions of the members of the editorial board, leading Russian and foreign experts in the field of book studies, library science, reader studies, media studies, cultural studies, etc. All of them are confident in the relevance of the new journal’s subject and express their hopes for its successful development and relevance among professionals.

DESIGN AND IMPLEMENTATION OF REAL-TIME NON-LINEAR DYNAMIC SIMULATION OF FIGHTER AIRCRAFT ON MULTICORE PROCESSOR

Simulation is a system to imitate the operation of various kinds of real-world facilities or processes for training, behavior study or entertainment purposes. Some implementation of fighter aircraft simulation is done sequentially using FORTRAN and MATLAB / Simulink. On the other hand, a multicore (parallel) computer system has been in the personal computer environment, so the multicore computing paradigm should be considered. Intel Threading Building Blocks (TBB) library need to be utilized in multicore programming. This paper discusses the design and implementation of real-time nonlinear dynamic simulation of fighter aircraft on multicore processor. The aircraft model used in this study is F16 data. Implementation of the simulation code is written in C++ with Intel TBB, OpenGL, Open Scene Graph, and Open Dynamic Engine library. The testing results of non-linear dynamics simulation of fighter aircraft show that the speedup on an Intel Core 2 Duo processor is 1.1776 x for elevator doublet input (short period), while speedup on an Intel i7 is 1.5405 x for rudder doublet input (dutch roll). Key Words: multicore computing, real-time simulation, nonlinear dynamic, fighter aircraft model

INTEGRATION OF BLOCKCHAIN TECHNOLOGY IN DIGITAL LIBRARIES: A SOFTWARE ENGINEERING DESIGN

This research aims to design software engineering that integrates blockchain technology in digital libraries to improve system security and reliability. This integration is expected to overcome challenges related to data security, service reliability, and efficiency in digital library management. The research methodology involves collecting data through literature, expert interviews, and observations, on the implementation of blockchain technology in digital libraries, then analyzing data to support data design such as etherum, smart contracts, address, node.js, solidity, metamask, and sublime text, then using the Agile Extreme Programming (XP) method for software development. The research results include the design of a decentralized blockchain architecture, the use of smart contracts, and the application of cryptographic techniques to enhance security. Immutability testing in the context of blockchain involves verifying data consistency, validating the process of adding data, testing the ability to delete data, testing against attacks, and activities on immutable data. These tests were conducted using the Truffle framework. The results show that the system is able to maintain data integrity well.

Emerging Technology Services Provided by Nigerian Library and Information Science Professionals

Emerging technologies are revolutionizing practically every area of human endeavor. This invention has resulted in a significant shift in the way libraries operate all around the world. Recent library technologies, which varied from library 1.0 to library 5.0, provide evidence of this. It is anticipated that this breakthrough will draw the tech-savvy generation to the library; sadly, in Nigeria, the opposite is evident. Based on this, the study looked at services based on emerging technologies that librarians and information scientists in Nigerian libraries provided. The study's population consisted of 45 attendees from the 2019 IT Section of the Nigerian Library Association Workshop, and it used a survey research design. Out of the 45 copies of the administered questionnaire that were recovered, only 38 were deemed relevant for the investigation. There were two sections to the questionnaire. Section B aimed to gather information on emerging library services offered and obstacles to their implementation, whereas Section A sought to clarify demographic data. The study's conclusions were computed using descriptive statistics. The survey found that practitioners provide a wide range of library services based on developing technology. According to the survey, there is a dearth of services based on emerging technologies, such as cloud computing, gaming, and the Internet of Things. The survey also found that among other difficulties, practitioners deal with erratic electricity and poor internet service provision. It was concluded that practitioners would maximize the use of emerging technologies if sufficient attention was given to the issues impeding their use in the delivery of library services. Recruitment of more personnel and provision of alternative power supplies were among the recommendations made in the study.

Analysis of the Relationship Between Academic Information Needs and Student Information Search Behavior at the Padjadjaran University Repository

Developments in the field of library technology, especially in the storage and dissemination of information, have also encouraged institutional awareness to increase their information resource assets. The Padjadjaran University Repository functions as a means of storing, preserving and making accessible sources of information on research that has been prepared by the academic community. Students need scientific sources in the process of completing their coursework, they carry out various stages in searching for appropriate information in their own way. This research aims to determine academic information needs and student information seeking behavior at the Padjadjaran University Repository. The data analysis technique used is descriptive analysis and Pearson Product Moment correlation analysis. Based on the processed data, it was found that the concept of academic information needs has a significant relationship with information seeking behavior. The Padjadjaran University repository is able to provide valid information and can be used as reference material for lecture assignments to students as users. This is because the Padjadjaran University Repository is considered by students to have provided sufficient information based on the form, method of presentation and scope.

Attitude of Library Professionals Towards Information Communication Technology in the Select Central University Libraries of Delhi and Uttar Pradesh

With the advent of new technological transformations in libraries and information centres, library professionals have experienced major challenges with changes in the generation, creation, dissemination, and preservation of knowledge in libraries. The objectives of the present study are to find out the hindrances to implementing ICT, and incorporation in libraries has a prominent place in fulfilling the needs of users, but one must not ignore the fact that ICT is not only the factor responsible for achieving the goals of libraries; it is also the library professional’s positive attitude that endorses the implementation of the same. There are many factors that can help library professionals develop a positive attitude, including prior knowledge, proper training, and continuing education like in-service courses, workshops, and seminars. If the staff of the library shows a positive attitude towards the adoption of ICT in their organisation, it will raise their self-confidence, thereby increasing productivity, while also raising their morale and motivation among colleagues. On the other hand, a negative attitude will raise high levels of anxiety, lower levels of self-efficacy, technophobia, cyberphobia, and fear of losing their jobs. The negative attitudes of library professionals are the main hindrance to the implementation of ICT in libraries. The present study’s findings can advance our understanding of ICT adoption in libraries and provide practical recommendations for maximizing the use of ICT resources in library services. The study concluded that the major objectives have been accomplished by those in the library industry who adopt a critical stance toward the adoption and rejection of new technologies

Entity Management Using RDA and Wikibase: A Case Study at the National Library of Greece

The force driving the implementation of Linked Data (LD) technologies in libraries is the aspiration for widespread interoperability of library data and for advanced information services. Toward these goals, libraries change their data models, update their communication formats, and develop prototype applications that use new models and formats and enable entity-based cataloguing. The National Library of Greece (NLG) has been actively adapting its policies, workflows, and tools to make its data LD-ready. Within this context, NLG has developed -in cooperation with Open Knowledge Greece- an entity management prototype using RDA/RDF in a Wikibase instance. The vision is to build a shared entity management system used by all memory institutions in Greece to describe entities of Greek interest. Data is to be stored as a knowledge graph that can be exported in RDF serializations, and in legacy MARC format. This paper first examines related efforts from other National Libraries, and then outlines the steps involved in the publication of the NLG Authority File as linked data; namely dataset selection, modeling, data curation, mapping, and publication. The development of the NLG entity management prototype is also presented. The paper concludes with challenges, lessons learned, and next steps.

Project activity as the communication systems innovative functioning: The Ukrainian libraries experience

The purpose of the article is to highlight the leading Ukrainian libraries project activities as a factor of their innovative functioning. The research methodology is based on the application of systemic-structural and activity approaches, which led to the complex use of generally-logical and theoretical methods used in humanitarian research. The scientific novelty of the obtained results lies in clarifying the role and significance of libraries project activities, summarising the most relevant projects implemented by leading libraries of Ukraine, as well as in highlighting the characteristic consequences of innovative library projects implementation and their classification depending on the target nature. Conclusions. It has been established that the characteristic features of the projects are their clear purpose, uniqueness, as well as: social and cultural significance and social effect; for users – new services and new opportunities; for libraries and library specialists – implementation of innovations, professional development, modernisation of production processes, etc. It has been emphasised that thanks to the implementation of innovative projects there were: a) significant transformation of library technologies and functional areas of library activity; b) fully justified attraction to corporatism in the information and search systems creation and information resources consolidation; c) innovative transformations in the library-information service system for users; d) arrangement of innovative library space. The whole set of library projects is grouped according to the purpose: social and communication projects, technological and functional projects. It has been concluded that the project activity of libraries expands and at the same time enriches the libraries’ functional capabilities and their information and resource base, promotes new services mastering and their development, and also establishes libraries as an important social and cultural institution and space for communication

Quality of Public Library Services as Predictors of BARMM Community’s Information Needs Satisfaction

Public libraries have always been a source of essential information resources in the community. This descriptive-correlational research was conducted to examine the quality of library services and its influence on the information needs satisfaction of the BARMM community. Specifically, this research determined the library user's assessment of the quality of BARMM's public libraries in terms of; availability of resources; accessibility of resources; availability of technology; library staff competence and library atmosphere, and the extent of the library user's information needs satisfaction considering educational needs, professional needs, religious needs and community development needs. Data were collected using validated and pilot-tested questionnaires. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Based on the findings, the participants' information needs were generally satisfied. Moreover, the participant's assessment of the BARMM's public libraries significantly influenced their information needs satisfaction. The study points to giving special attention to the accessibility of resources and implementing advanced technology in BARMM public libraries to attract more users and promote lifelong learning within the community.

ALGORITHMIC LITERACY: Generative Artificial Intelligence Technologies for Data Librarians

INTRODUCTION: Artificial intelligence (AI) is a novel type of library technology. AI technologies and the needs of data librarians are hybrid and symbiotic, because academic libraries must insert AI technologies into their information and data services. Library services need AI to interpret the context of big data.OBJECTIVES: In this context, we explore the use of the the OpenAI Codex, a deep learning model trained on Python code from repositories, to generate code scripts for data librarians. This investigation examines the practices, models, and methodologies for obtaining code script insights from complex code environments linked to AI GPT technologies. METHODS: The proposed AI-powered method aims to assist data librarians in creating code scripts using Python libraries and plugins such as the integrated development environment PyCharm, with additional support from the Machinet AI and Bito AI plugins. The process involves collaboration between the data librarian and the AI agent, with the librarian providing a natural language description of the programming problem and the OpenAI Codex generating the solution code in Python.RESULTS: Five specific web-scraping problems are presented. The scripts demonstrate how to extract data, calculate metrics, and write the results to files.CONCLUSION: Overall, this study highlights the application of AI in assisting data librarians with code script creation for web scraping tasks. AI may be a valuable resource for data librarians dealing with big data challenges on the Web. The possibility of creating Python code with AI is of great value, as AI technologies can help data librarians work with various types of data sources. The Python code in Data Science web scraping projects uses a machine-learning model that can generate human-like code to help create and improve the library service for extracting data from a web collection. The ability of nonprogramming data librarians to use AI technologies facilitates their interactions with all types and data sources. The Python programming language has artificial intelligence modules, packages, and plugins such as the OpenAI Codex, which serialises automation and navigation in web browsers to simulate human behaviour on pages by entering passwords, selecting captcha options, collecting data, and creating different collections of datasets to be viewed.

Implementation of information technology in academic libraries in Nigeria: Benefits, challenges and solutions

Information technology has undergone tremendous advancement in recent decades. The power brought forward by the developments in information technology (IT) has seen its adoption across all sectors of the economy, with its implementation resulting in unprecedented efficiency. In Nigeria, implementing IT, especially in the education sector, remains one of the library’s objectives to enhance human capacity through access to digitized information. Academic libraries’, being at the forefront of providing information, implementing IT are inevitable and enhances service delivery. However, the implementation of information technology in Nigerian academic libraries has been characterized by numerous challenges affecting their capacity to efficiently deliver services to their users. The established processes for implementing information technology in these institutions include inadequate funds to purchase and maintain IT equipment, power interruptions, low computer literacy among librarians, and poor internet connectivity. Fortunately, adequate staff training and exploring alternative energy sources include some appropriate solutions to the identified challenges.