Abstract

Public libraries are the entrance to a knowledge society with equal access for everyone and are also a suitable place for the social integration of many different groups of immigrants. Therefore, they should create services and initiate programs in response to the requests of the multicultural communities they serve. Segovia’s libraries identified the information needs of immigrants through a series of questionnaires, administered through direct personal interactions with key informants from three distinct but complementary sources: public libraries, educational centres, and immigrant associations. We offer suggestions on innovative and optimal responses to the needs we detected.

Abstract

Altmetrics measure the impact of research by quantifying its presence on the social web. The use of this tool in research evaluation can supplement citation analysis. However, altmetric data sources suffer from biases similar to those of citation databases. Although altmetrics offer article-level metrics, it is necessary to normalize data collection in order to guarantee the consistency of altmetric indicators and to build a conceptual framework to interpret them. Altmetrics can be a source of information on researchers’ information behaviour and needs.

Abstract

A survey was conducted to determine operation and maintenance (O and M)-related materials needs in geothermal power plants and to identify future research and development to address these needs. A total of 44 questionnaires was mailed to geothermal plant operators and industry consultants. The response rate was 54%. The participants were asked to describe type and frequency of materials problems, strategies currently used to mitigate such problems, barriers to using new or alternative materials and technologies, sources of information and give their views on research and development priorities. A wide range of opinions was obtained, reflecting each individual respondent`s perspective and the site-specific nature of some problems. However, the consensus is that corrosion and scaling remain major issues and that components requiring performance improvements include pipelines, well casing, turbines, heat exchangers, condensers, valves and cooling towers. It is recommended that appropriate research and development continue to be directed at reducing O and M costs associated with materials failure or inadequate service. There should be a balance between optimizing existing materials through better design and understanding of behavior in geothermal environments and development of new materials. Life extension of existing equipment, service life prediction, education of plant personnel in materials andmore » methods for mitigating corrosion, and improvements in inhibitors and biocides would also be beneficial.« le Document type: Report