bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Theories, Models, and Standard Systems of Measurement
Authors: Aftanas Marion S.
Published: March 2007

Measurement theories in psychology may be classi fied in terms of whether they begin from a general measurement framework or from a specific area of measurement. Points of contact between theories and different specific measurement areas have been limited by the choice of focus in discussions of general mea surement theories and specific theories or models. This presentation outlines a metatheoretical framework that begins with the obvious common factor in all areas, the standard system of measurement. Just as a stan dard is a commonly accepted unit of measurement, a standard system is a commonly accepted mechanism of measurement for a given area. The concept of a standard system amplifies general definitions of mea surement and clarifies metatheoretical statements con cerning the requirements for measurement. Differences between measurement situations may be categorized by the type of standard system used and by features of the attribute measured. Identification of different stan dard systems and elements of the measurement process provides a focus for comparisons between measure ment theories and models in different measurement situations. Index terms: applied measurement models, comparison of measurement models, definition of measurement, measurement process, measurement theory, metatheoretical framework for applied mea surement models, standard systems of measurement.
A Probabilistic IRT Model for Unfolding Preference Data
Authors: Andrich David
Published: March 2007

A probabilistic model is developed for the pair- comparison design in which the unfolding principle that governs the choice process uses a discriminal pro cess analogous to Thurstone's Law of Comparative Judgment. However, this process is governed by the square of the distance between the location of the per son and the stimulus, rather than controlled by the lo cation of the stimulus as in Thurstone's formulation. A simulation study demonstrates the feasibility of esti mation, and two examples use real data to show the implications of the unfolding models for psychological research. Index terms: choice data, item response theory, pair comparisons, preference data, unfolding.
Confirmatory Factor Analyses of Multitrait-Multimethod Data: Many Problems and a Few Solutions
Authors: Marsh Herbert W.
Published: March 2007

During the last 15 years there has been a steady in crease in the popularity and sophistication of the con firmatory factor analysis (CFA) approach to multitrait- multimethod (MTMM) data. This approach, however, incurs some important problems, the most serious being the ill-defined solutions that plague MTMM stud ies and the assumption that so-called method factors reflect primarily the influence of method effects. In three different MTMM studies, ill-defined solutions were frequent and alternative parameterizations de signed to solve this problem tended to mask the symp toms instead of eliminating the prcblem. More impor tantly, so-called method factors apparently represented trait variance in addition to, or instead of, method var iance for at least some models in all three studies. Further support for this counterinterpretation of method factors was found when external validity crite ria were added to the MTMM models and correlated with trait and so-called method factors. This problem, when it exists, invalidates the traditional interpretation of trait and method factors and the comparison of dif ferent MTMM models. A new specification of method effects as correlated uniquenesses instead of method factors was less prone to ill-defined solutions and, ap parently, to the confounding of trait and method ef fects. Index terms: confirmatory factor analysis, construct validity, convergent validity, correlated uniquenesses, discriminant validity, empirical under- identification, LISREL, method effects, multitrait-multi method analysis.
Adaptive Estimation When the Unidimensionality Assumption of IRT is Violated
Authors: Folk Valerie Greaud , Green Bert F.
Published: March 2007

This study examined some effects of using a unidi mensional IRT model when the assumption of unidi mensionality was violated. Adaptive and nonadaptive tests were formed from two-dimensional item sets. The tests were administered to simulated examinee populations with different correlations of the two un derlying abilities. Scores from the adaptive tests tended to be related to one or the other ability rather than to a composite. Similar but less disparate results were obtained with IRT scoring of nonadaptive tests, whereas the conventional standardized number-correct score was equally related to both abilities. Differences in item selection from the adaptive administration and in item parameter estimation were also examined and related to differences in ability estimation. Index terms: ability estimation, adaptive testing, item pa rameter estimation, item response theory, multidimen sionality.
A Logistic Regression Model for Personnel Selection
Authors: Raju Nambury S. , Steinhaus Stephen D. , Edwards Jack E. , DeLessio Juyne
Published: March 2007

A two-parameter logistic regression model for personnel selection is proposed. In addition to presenting a theoretical basis for the model, a uni fied approach is provided for studying selection, validity generalization, employee classification, selection bias, and utility-based fair selection. The new model was tested with a large database ( N = 84,808). Results show the logistic regression model to be valid and also quite robust with respect to direct and indirect range restriction on the predictor.
The Measurement of Latent Traits by Proximity Items
Authors: Hoijtink Herbert
Published: March 2007

A probabilistic parallelogram model for the mea surement of latent traits by proximity items (the PARELLA model) is introduced. This model assumes that the responses of persons to items result from proximity relations: the smaller the distance between person and item, the larger the probability that the person will agree with the content of the item. The model is unidimensional and assigns locations to items and persons on the latent trait. The parameters of the PARELLA model are estimated by marginal maximum likelihood and expectation maximization. The efficiency of the estimation procedure is illustrated, a diagnostic for the fit of items to the model is presented, and the PARELLA model is used for the analysis of three empirical datasets.
Methodology Review: Statistical Approaches for Assessing Measurement Bias
Authors: Millsap Roger E. , Everson Howard T.
Published: March 2007

Statistical methods developed over the last decade for detecting measurement bias in psycho logical and educational tests are reviewed. Earlier methods for assessing measurement bias generally have been replaced by more sophisticated statistical techniques, such as the Mantel-Haenszel procedure, the standardization approach, logistic regression models, and item response theory approaches. The review employs a conceptual framework that distin guishes methods of detecting measurement bias based on either observed or unobserved conditional invariance models. Although progress has been made in the development of statistical methods for detecting measurement bias, issues related to the choice of matching variable, the nonuniform nature of measurement bias, the suitability of cur rent approaches for new and emerging perform ance assessment methods, and insights into the causes of measurement bias remain elusive. Clearly, psychometric solutions to the problems of measurement bias will further understanding of the more central issue of construct validity. The con tinuing development of statistical methods for detecting and understanding the causes of mea surement bias will continue to be an important scientific challenge.
Modeling Developmental Processes Using Latent Growth Structural Equation Methodology
Authors: Duncan Terry E. , Duncan Susan C. , Stoolmiller Mike
Published: March 2007

Recent advances in latent growth modeling allow for the testing of complex models regarding develop mental trends from both an inter- and intra-individual perspective. The interpretation of model parameters for the latent growth specification is illustrated with a simple two-factor model. An example application of latent growth methodology analyzing developmental change in adolescent alcohol consumption is presented. Findings are discussed with particular reference to the utility of latent growth curve models for assessing de velopmental processes at both the inter- and intra-indi vidual level across a variety of behavioral domains. Index terms: alcohol consumption, change measure ment, developmental models, growth measurement, la tent growth models.
The Influence of the Presence of Deviant Item Score Patterns on the Power of a Person-Fit Statistic
Authors: Meijer Rob R.
Published: March 2007

Studies investigating the power of person-fit statis tics often assume that the item parameters that are used to calculate the statistics are estimated in a sample with out misfitting item score patterns. However, in practical test applications calibration samples likely will contain such patterns. In the present study, the influence of the type and the number of misfitting patterns in the calibra tion sample on the detection rate of the ZU3 statistic was investigated by means of simulated data. An increase in the number of misfitting simulees resulted in a decrease in the power of ZU3. Furthermore, the type of misfit and the test length influenced the power of ZU3. The use of an iterative procedure to remove the misfitting patterns from the dataset was investigated. Results suggested that this method can be used to improve the power of ZU3.
Item Response Theory Models and Spurious Interaction Effects in Factorial ANOVA Designs
Authors: Embretson Susan E.
Published: March 2007

In many psychological experiments, interaction effects in factorial analysis of variance (ANOVA) designs are often estimated using total scores derived from classical test theory. However, interaction effects can be reduced or eliminated by nonlinear monotonic transformations of a dependent variable. Although cross-over interactions cannot be eliminated by trans formations, the meaningfulness of other interactions hinges on achieving a measurement scale level for which nonlinear transformations are inappropriate (i.e., at least interval scale level). Classical total test scores do not provide interval level measurement according to contemporary item response theory (IRT). Nevertheless, rarely are IRT models applied to achieve more optimal measurement properties and hence more meaningful interaction effects. This paper provides several condi tions under which interaction effects that are estimated from classical total scores, rather than IRT trait scores, can be misleading. Using derived asymptotic expecta tions from an IRT model, interaction effects of zero on the IRT trait scale were often not estimated as zero from the total score scale. Further, when nonzero inter actions were specified on the IRT trait scale, the esti mated interaction effects were biased inward when estimated from the total score scale. Test difficulty level determined both the direction and the magnitude of the biased interaction effects. Index terms: facto rial designs, interaction effects, interval measurement, item response theory, level of measurement, measure ment scales, statistical inference.
Data entry using micro-computers: An experimental file of the International Bibliography of Economics
Authors: Thompson George K.
Published: March 2007

This paper describes an experimental project for the com puter storage and generation of a bibliography of economics literature published in 1979, as a contribution to the broader computer applications in the International Bibliography of the Social Sciences and reviews some of the appropriate tech nology for such a system, the adequacy of existing data bases and directories of these, and the creation of tertiary data bases.
The awakening information needs of the developing countries
Authors: Tell Bjorn V.
Published: March 2007

The developing countries arc emulating the industrialized countries when setting up information services to cater for their information needs. However, the traditional infrastruc ture of service organisations may not be the best model for supporting easy and speedy access to information. A different approach is argued, founded upon the enthusiasm with which many developing countries have taken to online systems when demonstrated there. A model for a ministerial information network is proposed as part of a "social intel ligence function" of the country. It is proposed that Unesco and UNIDO should set up regional "centres of excellence" according to this model for developing countries.
New opportunities from information technology
Authors: Williams P.W.
Published: March 2007

Rapid developments in computing, telecommunications and microtechnology are expanding the ways in which information can be obtained. The online systems are now firmly established and the Post Office Prestel service is com mencing operations. There are several packages available for large-scale and medium-scale in-house computing systems and the advent of microcomputers means that complete informa tion systems for well under £ 10 000 will soon be available. Personal information systems can already be found for a few thousand pounds. The opportunities for the smaller informa tion unit are surveyed and the costs and difficulties of the possible options are reviewed.
SAP — a new way to produce subject descriptions of books
Authors: Wormell Irene
Published: March 2007

Within the scope of the Subject Access Project - SAP, at the Lund University Library, a new version of on-line catalo gue for monographic publications has been developed; an effective aid for searches by subject as well as bibliographic data. Using the SAP-indexing method, existing bibliographic catalogue records have been enriched with terms selected from the tables of contents and book indexes. The idea of SAP is to produce subject descriptions of books taken from the books themselves and to make more use of the 'inherent' attributes of a publication. It is also an approach to eliminat ing the known shortcomings of existing standard library classification systems in describing the varied and extensive contents of a book by means of limited numbers of classifica tion codes. By this augmented subject description of the con tents of books (SAP), we provide retrieval capabilities for the user of monographs at a comparably low cost.
An alternative ISBN checking algorithm
Authors: McMurdo George
Published: March 2007

The International Standard Book Number (ISBN) has an inbuilt validity check. An alternative checking algorithm to that defined by the Standard Book Numbering Agency is presented. The alternative algorithm is demonstrated to pro duce identical results and is marginally more efficient.
A personal on-line reference retrieval program for microcomputers
Authors: Waldron C.B. , Cooke Deborah M.
Published: March 2007

An on-line system for retrieving bibliographic references has been developed for the use of research workers at St. Thomas' Hospital, London. It is designed to be compatible with several types of hardware, and is linked to a word process ing program to facilitate input and to allow reformatting of references if necessary. References may be added and searching undertaken by individuals with little or no computing knowl edge. In effect the system can replace personal manual files of references. It is in use in four departments in the hospital so far, and has been shown to be flexible enough to cater both for small personal reference files of a few hundred references and for department files of several thousand. References are retri eved by means of two-letter key codes (up to 12 may be assigned to each reference). A large controlled language thesaurus of about 1000 key-codes has been designed for universal use in one department, but for smaller, more special ised collections of references, users are developing personal key code lists on an ad hoc basis as references are added.
An information management system for charged particle nuclear reaction data
Authors: Togasi Masatomo , Tanaka Hajime
Published: March 2007

A storage and retrieval system for Charged Particle Nuclear Reaction Data (CPND) has been designed and implemented. CPND is a typical case of raw data produced in scientific research activities. The system has the architecture of an inter mediate system which lies between an IR system and a Data Base Management System (DBMS). Data input to the system are coded by a "data language" of free format. A doubly inverted file structure is incorporated into the system for both information representation and indexing. The implications of this system in the context of scientific information systems in general is discussed.
Changes in the communication of chemical information II: An updated model
Authors: Bottle R.T.
Published: March 2007

Models of communication pathways in the early 1970s are updated in the light of recent developments. The final stage—integration in the subject literature—is defined in terms of acceptance by educational curricula. The place of commer cially important (patentable) information in the model is also discussed.
Citation study of peripheral theories in an expanding research front
Authors: Gregory J.G.
Published: March 2007

In most research fields, particular theories and lines of study tend to become dominant. Thomas Kuhn has shown that 'scientific revolutions' nevertheless occur. Citations in an ex panding research area are analysed with particular reference to a few theories which conflict with the mainstream of scientific thought on the topic. The progress of these theories past editors and referees into the primary literature and, if they make it, into citations and reviews is examined. The example used concentrates on mechanisms rather than the validity or other wise of the theories reported.
The use of thesauri in online retrieval
Authors: Dubois C.P.R.
Published: March 2007

The controlled vocabulary versus the free text approach to information retrieval is reviewed from the mid 1960s to the early 1980s. The dominance of the free text approach following the Cranfield tests is increasingly coming into question as a result of tests on existing online data bases and case studies. This is supported by two case studies on the Coffeeline data base. The differences and values of the two approaches are explored considering thesauri as semantic maps. It is suggested that the most appropriate evaluatory technique for indexing languages is to study the actual use made of various techniques in a wide variety of search environments. Such research is becoming more urgent. Economic and other reasons for the scarcity of online thesauri are reviewed and suggestions are made for methods to secure revenue from thesaurus display facilities. Finally, the promising outlook for renewed develop ment of controlled vocabularies with more effective online display techniques is mentioned, although such development must be based on firm research of user behaviour and needs.
Using a cognitive model of dialogue for reference retrieval
Authors: Ofori-Dwumfuo G.O.
Published: March 2007

A retrieval program, called Thomas and described elsewhere, attempts to satisfy the user from structural models it builds of the user's problem area and its database. The retrieval strategy is based on a dialogue model between an information expert and an information seeker. This paper discusses an implemen tation of Thomas which incorporates weighting based on the strength of association between items in the database. Experi ments show that the new system, called Thomas-II, requires less effort from the user than Thomas.
Packet switching and the communication networks of the eighties and beyond
Authors: Philip G.
Published: March 2007

Packet switched data communication services are now firmly established as a multi-million dollar industry. In the not too distant future, packet switching technology will be applied to the communication of voice as well. The availability of voice packet networks (whether separate or integrated with data) will have profound implications in providing cost-effective access to emerging voice-based computerised information services. Al though such networks are technically and economically feasible at the present time, there are a few minor problems to over come before they become widely available. This article ex amines the principles, economics, benefits and prospects of employing the packet switching principles in the transmission of voice.
An analysis of humanists' requests received by an Information Service for the Humanities
Authors: Méndez Aida
Published: March 2007

The use made by researchers in the Humanities of the services offered by the Institute of Information and Documen tation for Social Sciences and Humanities is examined. A detailed analysis of the requested documents is made consider ing type of document, distribution of the articles in Journals, language and age. Considerable scattering of the articles both in Journals and in years is observed, which makes their location difficult. Some reasons for the scarce use the humanist scholar makes of the services are indicated and it is suggested that a close contact between researchers in the Humanities and infor mation specialists is desirable in order to design services better adapted to the information needs existing in the field of the Humanities.
Towards a new pricing structure for online databases
Authors: Jansen Arnold A.J.
Published: March 2007

The majority of database producers in the science and technology market charge for the use of their databases on the basis of time. Their users are billed according to the time they actually spend searching and printing the database online which has no reflection on the true cost of the information. The real-time charging mechanism was established, when 300 baud terminals were the standard. Today microcomputers and 1200 baud modems are becoming increasingly more important, sig nificantly reducing the time required online and thus the sales price of the search. The current system of pricing databases will be difficult to maintain in the future, as the trend towards improved hardware and sharer connect time increases. Chang ing the system, however, will be difficult. A typical database producer receives about 80 percent of online revenue from the sale of connect hours. To switch from time charges to an alternative such as unit charges will not be easy. The author analyses the problem and offers a number of possible scenarios.
Education and training in office technology
Authors: Yates-Mercer Penelope A. , Roucoux Jean
Published: March 2007

In recent years the 'IT skills shortage' has received consid erable publicity, although the term has been used in a general sense, covering all aspects of IT in this country. The paper discusses the concept, its interpretation and the initiatives to combat it. The education and training of managerial/profes sional personnel in the uses of office technology is but a part of the problem, and the training provision for this sector is categorized and summarized. Finding appropriate courses is another problem and the sources of such information are also summarized. A small survey of organizations' perceptions of training needs was carried out and the results reported, indicat ing a desire for short in-house training courses, rather than academic courses leading to qualifications.
Viewdata in the office—user—friendly page identification
Authors: Amadi Anslem O.
Published: March 2007

Viewdata as a useful tool in the automated office is de scnbed. Of particular importance is the way pages are to be identified so as to afford the user a more friendly access to information within the viewdata system. An approach to as signing names as well as numbers to the pages is described. Also descnbed are the implications of this identification sys tem.
Readability and prestige in scientific journals
Authors: Hartley J. , Trueman M. , Meadows A.J.
Published: March 2007

This paper reviews studies that have been made of relation ships between a journal's readability and its prestige. After discussing the concepts of readability and prestige, and how they might be measured, the authors review ten experimental studies

(i) which have mampulated the textual difficulty of extracts from journal articles and examined their prestige ratings, or

(ii) which have calculated correlation coefficients between readability measures of journal articles and the journals' pre stige rankings.

It is concluded that, in the main, there is little evidence to support the notion held by some that prestige is inversely related to reading difficulty. In practical terms it has not been found easy to measure satisfactorily either prestige or readabil ity. It is concluded, nonetheless, that reliable methods of assessing the difficulty of journal articles could have useful applications.
Science and technology information transfer in developing countries: some problems and suggestions
Authors: Ali S. Nazim
Published: March 2007

The importance of science and technology information in technological advancement and research and development is obvious. Likewise, it contributes directly to the economic de velopment of a country. Scientists and technologists can not function properly without having access to up-to-date informa tion in their respective fields. The bulk of such information is being generated in developed countries. Providing access to this information (because of limited resources available in the developing countries) for scientists and technologists working in the developing countries, no doubt is a challenging task. Various methods practised in the dissemination of science and technology information in developing countnes are examined.
A behavioural model for information retrieval system design
Authors: Ellis David
Published: March 2007

A behavioural model derived from analysis of the informa tion-seeking patterns of academic social scientists is employed to provide recommendations for information retrieval system design. The six major characteristics identified in the informa tion-seeking patterns—starting, chaining, browsing, differenti ating, monitoring and extracting—are descnbed in relation to retrieval system facilities, and the possibility of implementing an experimental system in a hypertext environment is consid ered.
A statistical study of online searches in a chemical company, 1982 1987
Authors: Smith Elaine Davis
Published: March 2007

This study analyzes the number and costs of online searches in a chemical company during the period 1982-1987. The Company, which employs about 2,000 people at the main site, for many years manufactured only one product, which was sold direct to refineries. Early in the 1980s, the Company started to diversify, with a resultant dramatic increase in the demand for searches. In this paper the areas of demand involved are recognized, and then, having established a con sistent method of recording and analysis by category, the results are studied and an endeavour made to identify the technological, fiscal and human reasons and factors responsi ble for the fluctuations seen.
Experiences with GDSS development: lab and field studies
Authors: Floyd Lewis L. , Keleman Kenneth S.
Published: March 2007

One laboratory and two field studies of GDSS application were completed. Results indicated that when GDSS tools are matched to appropriate problems, adequate GDSS training is given, and the GDSS process is integrated into the broader organizational context, GDSS is perceived as having positive impacts on group problem solving, and will be accepted by the problem solving group. Implications of the results for GDSS research and development are discussed.
Management and economic issues of library and information services: a review of the German literature
Authors: Stroetmann Karl A.
Published: March 2007

The paper presents a critical and constructive review of German language literature. Mostly the publications focus on business econonucs aspects: library and information services as busmess units, management issues, procurement, produc tion, services. financing and charges, marketing. On the macro-economic level, questions like the government's respon sibility for the information market and consequences of the establishment of a unified European market are addressed. Only few studies go beyond the level of general business economics theory and develop the specifics of information services. Emprncal research and empirical tests of hypotheses are largely missing. Foreign hterature is being ignored in many publications. A re-orientation of research, as can be observed in some recent studies, towards the user and the functions that information services perform for him is recommended as well as studies on information management issues.
Framing public policy for scientific and technical information
Authors: Turner W.A. , Lecoadic Yves-F.
Published: March 2007

This paper argues that the scientific and technical information sector (STI) is in the midst ot a paradigm change "Just-in-time" production theories are making their way into the STI industry. The problem is now less one of improving access to stocks of stored information than that ot getting information to the right place at the right time. We attempt to frame a policy perspective that might be useful for thinking through the implications of this paradigm change in the field of scientific and technical information.
The national scene in information and documentation activities and recent developments in the documentation centre of TÜBiTAK (TÜRDOK)
Authors: Yildiz Imre
Published: March 2007

The first part of this paper is based on the evalua tion of a survey, conducted by the Documentation Centre (TURDOK) of the Scientific and Technical Research Council of Turkey (TUBITAK) on the existing national information and documentation activities in Turkey. The second part of the paper comprises the recent developments of TURDOK in providing information for universities, governmental institu tions and industry.
Trends in biomedical publications: US and Japanese authors in US journals and European journals
Authors: Sodha R.J.
Published: March 2007

Recently, a decrease in the number of US authored biomedical papers has been linked to the slowed growth of funding from the National Institutes of Health. The online biomedical database EMBASE was used to determine the proportion of biomedical papers from US and Japanese insti tutions in 49 US journals and 63 English language European journals. The proportion of US-authored papers in US jour nals declined from 80% in 1978 to 65% in 1990, whereas that in European journals remained steady at 20-25%. Over this period, the contributions from Japanese institutions in both types of journals increased from 2% to 6%. The number of publications from English language Journals published in Japan has remained constant. The decline in US-authored papers in US journals may have more to do with high stan dards of non-US authored publications than reduced financial support.
The rates of assignment of narrower terms in the Thesaurus of ERIC Descriptors
Authors: Diodato Virgil , Henry Georgianna
Published: March 2007

Is there a link between the use of an indexing term and its physical similarity to its narrower terms? This analysis covered 1,296 entry terms, each with at least one narrower term in the ERIC Thesaurus. It measured the postings per document of the entry terms and their narrower terms. There was almost no correlation between how often a term is as signed and how many similar looking narrower terms it has. Nevertheless, there were some sets of narrower terms that had much higher postings per document rates than their entry terms. Many of these narrower terms were much newer to the Thesaurus than were their entry terms.
An analysis of Zipf-Mandelbrot language measures and their application to artificial languages
Authors: Meadow Charles T. , Jiabin Wang  , Stamboulie Manal
Published: March 2007

Studies of word frequency distributions have been used in linguisties for some time and are frequently used in information socnce research for such purposes as predicting numbers of key words or computing the significance of a word by its frequency of occurrence In this paper we provide a historical review of some of the developments in a particular aspect of word frequency analysis known as Zipf's Law but in fact first explicitly formulated by E U Condon, and later modified by B Mandelbrot. We present an exploratory analy sis of the use of Mandelbrot's parameters in discriminating among languages and language usage Some suggestions are made for using these parameters to characterize artificial (command) languages or the manner of use of these languages by different groups, for the purpose of enabling a computer interface to respond to users in a manner suited to their backgrounds or skills.
Competitor Intelligence in the pharmaceutical industry; the role of the information professional
Authors: Desai Bijel H. , Bawden David
Published: March 2007

This paper deals with the provision of Competitor Intelligence in the pharmaceutical industry, with specific ref erence to the role of "formal" information services. The nature of Competitor Intelligence in general is outlined, and the means for its provision are reviewed. The particular significance of Competitor Intelligence for the pharmaceutical industry is discussed, and the most important sources are described. The results of a survey, based around semi-struc tured interviews, of ten information units providing Competi tor Intelligence to British pharmaceutical companies are pre sented. The survey identifies the organisation of intelligence provision, its place in the organisation, sources used, means of information analysis and dehvery, and use of technology. The significance of the results for the information professional is discussed.
Introduction of performance indicators at the Institute of Development Studies
Authors: Posnett N.W.
Published: March 2007

Performance indicators (PI) in the present economic climate now seem to be required in a more formal way for wider use. However, more research than application seems to have been undertaken with regard to special libraries; and quality assessment is particularly difficult. The opportunity arising from a services redevelopment programme, changed management structure and new funding methodology at IDS was taken to introduce PI instruments. The objective is to monitor performance each year for accountability and to assist in local management's future planning. However due to the unique nature of the IDS, special problems were encoun tered. Based on the IDS experience, numerous principles are listed. Design of the instruments and indicators require both external independent and internal work practice orientated inputs. Agreed indicators have been implemented for a pilot year, with subsequent review and required changes, and a final evaluation to be effected twelve months later There are fourteen indicators collectively covering an overall cost/user statement, volume, cost/activity, quality assessment and re gionalisation derived from both internally and externally gen erated data.
Multi-database searches in biomedicine: citation duplication and novelty assessment using carbamazepine as an example
Authors: Sodha Ravi J. , Van Amelsvoort Thérèse
Published: March 2007

The rate of citation duplication and novelty assess ment were determined for a biomedical search in four databases: the in-house database of literature on company pharmaceutical products (CG-DOC), Embase, Medline, and Ringdoc. Of the citations that duplicated across any three databases, 89% had the search term in the title and/or abstract and 86% were assessed as relevant to the search. Novelty in these relevant citations was low; only 15% were novel to the assessor. Citations which were retrieved exclu sively from one database (unique citations) were also subjected to relevance assessment. Most of the unique cita tions did not contain the search term in the title or abstract. However, novelty was high in these unique citations, especially in citations from the in-house database. Of the total output, almost a fifth was contributed by individual databases. The importance of unique citations in multi database searches is discussed.
Nurses' information-seeking skills and perceptions of information sources: assessment using vignettes
Authors: Urquhart Christine , Crane Sophie
Published: March 2007

A survey of trained nursing staff in Plymouth (UK) indicated how national professional development proposals for nursing staff might affect the information and library services of the Tor and South West College of Health in Ply mouth. A structured interview of five per cent of the acute and community staff included a vignette (case study information problem) designed to elicit the level of information-seeking skills and perceptions of information sources, including the various local libraries with health care collections. Content analysis of the vignettes showed that about one-third of the respondents were confident information seekers. Another third appeared lacking in information-seeking skills. The informa tion-seeking strategy was associated with the group that used more than two sources of information, and this group was also more likely to mention use of a library than the other group which used two or fewer sources of information. However, there was no significant difference between those groups on (i) use of informal sources (colleagues, specialists) and (ii) mention of literature searching and journals. Study of the sources mentioned, particularly libraries, pointed to the need to consider networking and/or integration of health care library services.
Online company database selection: an evaluation of directories and CIDA (an expert system)
Authors: Morris Anne
Published: March 2007

Several tools have been marketed to aid the busi ness information searcher to identify appropriate databases. These include printed directories, and electronic 'databases of databases' such as The Online Manual on Disk (TOM). A prototype Company Information Database Adviser (CIDA) has also been developed using expert systems technology, by Loughborough University of Technology. The study reported in this paper investigated the performance of these tools when used by novice searchers. Measures included accuracy and consistency of recommendations, overall ease of use, degree of confidence in recommendations and time taken to use each tool. A total of 24 subjects took part in the trials. The trials clearly showed CIDA to be superior, in the areas it covered, to the printed guides investigated and to TOM. It was concluded that an expert system-based tool, such as CIDA, might be commercially viable both as a training aid and as a practical guide to company information databases.
Usage statistics collection and management in the ELINOR electronic library
Authors: Zhao Dian G.
Published: March 2007

Usage statistics collection and management in an electronic library environment is concerned with tracking, managing, analysing and reporting information resource usages by the electronic library users for various management purposes, such as copyright management and usage pattern monitor ing. Usage statistics data are summaries of resource usage events. Conventional data modelling methods which focus on 'reality' or 'situation' cannot be applied directly to usage statistics data. Finding a suitable database structure to store the usage statistics data so that queries on usage statistics can be supported efficiently is thus a major problematic issue in designing a usage statistics management subsystem. Another major concern for electronic library systems with out built-in usage statistics collection facilities, such as in the case of ELINOR, or for systems with such a facility but where the collected information is not detailed enough to match the requirements, is how to get hold of the relevant resource usage events which are generated as a by-product of resource uses. This paper presents the modelling, analy sis, design and the architecture of the usage statistics col lection and management subsystem of the ELINOR electronic library. Principles in general, as well as practical implementation issues, are discussed.
The citedness of publications by United Kingdom library schools
Authors: Lim Ban Seng  , Willett Peter
Published: March 2007

This paper reports a citation analysis of the 1989 and 1990 publications of seven library or information studies depart ments in the UK. The total number of citations, the mean number of citations per member of staff, and the mean num ber of citations per publication were all strongly correlated ( p<0.005), and the total number of publications less strongly correlated ( p <0.05), with the ratings that these departments achieved in the last Research Assessment Exercise. An analysis of the citedness of different types of research out put from these departments suggests that conference papers and articles in professional journals attract noticeably fewer citations than other types of output, and that articles in scientific journals attract noticeably more citations than articles in social science journals.
A survey of hypertext-based public-access point-of information systems in UK libraries
Authors: Furner Jonathan , Willett Peter
Published: March 2007

We have recently completed a survey of the operational use of hypertext-based information systems in academic, public and special libraries in the UK. A literature search, ques tionnaire and both telephone and face-to-face interviews demonstrate that the principal application of hypertext systems is for the implementation of public-access point-of- information systems, which provide guidance to the users of local information resources. In this paper, we describe the principal issues relating to the design and usage of these systems that were raised in the interviews and that we expe rienced when using the systems for ourselves. We then present a set of technical recommendations with the inten tion of helping the developers of future systems, with special attention being given to the need to develop effec tive methods for system evaluation.
Does machine-readable documentation on online hosts and CD-ROMs have a role or future?
Authors: Harris Stephen , Oppenheim Charles
Published: March 2007

As electronic information resources become increasingly complex, documentation in machine-readable form has been developed as a possible solution to the problem of ever-increasing numbers and volume of printed manuals and collections of data sheets. The authors report the results of a UK-based study among database users, CD-ROM producers and hosts to assess trends and views on this issue. The opinions of a small number of online and CD- ROM vendor companies, and a sample of members of the UK Online User Group, were assessed by means of postal questionnaires. Print manuals are still the primary source of documentation for those using electronic databases. The reasons for the continuing reluctance of people to make use of machine-readable documentation are cost, convenience and ease of use. Some suggestions are made as to how docu mentation in machine-readable form might be improved to make it more user-friendly and popular.
Structural Implications of Organizational Dependence upon Customers and Owners: Similarities and Differences
Authors: Wheeler Jo , Mansfield Roger , Todd Dave
Published: March 2007

The concept of organizational dependence is examined and its possible implications for different aspects of organizational structure are considered. It is argued that the implica tions of dependence in different environmental sectors will be different and a number of propositions are advanced concerning the effects of dependence upon customers and owners. Empirical evidence from a study of 78 companies in the United Kingdom is considered and most of the propositions are found to be supported. The study appears to confirm that greater predictive power can be obtained by disaggregating the concept of dependence and examining different environmental sectors separately.
Power and Advantage in Organizations
Authors: Walsh Kieron , Hinings Bob , Greenwood Royston , Ranson Stewart
Published: March 2007

This article examines the way in which recent critiques of the concept of power, notably by Clegg and Lukes, can be taken into account in the study of organizations. It is argued that this can best be done if we utilize the concepts of values and interests as well as the concept of power. Doing so allows us to consider the way in which advantage is distributed in an organization, and the contexts in which power is and is not used. Six patterns of organizational action are identified, using the concepts of values and interests, and their consequences for the exercise of power are examined. In conclusion it is argued that an understanding of power must utilize elements of both bureaucratic and political models of organizations.
Scapegoating in Complex Organizations: The Results of a Comparative Study of Symbolic Blame-Giving in Italian and French Public Administration
Authors: Bonazzi Giuseppe
Published: March 2007

A preliminary distinction is made between expressive and instrumental scapegoats. The latter are defined as the product of a rational strategy adopted by one or more power holders to prevent the blame for an incident from reaching higher hierarchical levels. The basic assumption in this article is that symbolic blame-giving processes within complex organizations must satisfy certain requirements in order to be credible. They can, thus, be studied in terms of purposive organizational behaviour and not solely as the emotional outcome of collective psychological dynamics. The analysis of five cases of scapegoating in the French political-administrative systems leads to the construction of a typology. The analysis of a number of Italian cases, however, shows that the French typology requires expansion in order to allow comparison with Italy. Possible means of achieving this comparison are suggested in the conclusion.
Sex and Organizational Analysis
Authors: Burrell Gibson
Published: March 2007

The focus of the paper is on the process of organizational desexualization which has taken place over a long historical period and upon the resistance which this process has engendered amongst organizational subordinates. The eradication of the high level of sexual activity which took place in pre-industrial organizations was sought by those in positions of authority and the paper considers the variety of mechanisms which were developed to attain this expulsion. These mechanisms are well entrenched in contemporary organizations, yet have met with considerable resistance from lower-order organizational members. The paper considers certain forms of resistance in this light in an attempt to suggest a dialectical approach to sexuality. It is concluded that the issue of sex is one which organizational analysis has avoided for too long.
Alternative Explanations of Interorganizational Cooperation: the Case of Joint Programmes and Joint Ventures in Sweden
Authors: Edström Anders , Högberg Bengt , Norback Lars Erik
Published: March 2007

Two alternative explanations of interorganizational cooperation are analysed. One is based on an open-systems approach (an outside-in explanation) where cooperation is viewed as a means to manage existing interdependencies with the environment. The other is an inside-out perspective, interpreting cooperation as a means to acquire resources that are necessary in order to establish new interdependencies. The two approaches imply different predictions as to the choice of partners and the type of resources pooled by the partners. This study attempts to reconcile the two explanations, and argues that they are contingent upon the strategic role of cooperation, as expressed by the significant actors of the cooperating organizations.