SCImago Journal & Country Rank

New Website Address:  https://ijism.isc.ac

Current Issue:  Jan-March 2026 (Vol. 24, No. 1)

Scopus Journal Metrics, 2024
SJR: 0.189, SNIP: 0.254, CiteScore = 0.9, Document h-index: 16
Google Scholar metrics
h5-index= 13,  h5-median=20
Scimago Journal Rank
IJISM's number of articles ,  H-index= 15

The Convergence of ISM and LIS in 2026 Bridging the Global Knowledge Gap

https://doi.org/10.22034/ijism.2026.735073

Jafar Mehrad

Abstract As we navigate the complexities of 2026, the boundaries between Information Science and Management (ISM) and Library and Information Science (LIS) have effectively dissolved. For the International Journal of Information Science and Management (IJISM), this integration represents a transformative shift: we are no longer just managing data or cataloging books; we are architecting the Global Knowledge Commons (Hess & Ostrom, 2007). The latest achievements in these fields offer a unique opportunity for developing nations to leapfrog traditional infrastructure hurdles through "intelligent" information ecosystems (Floridi, 2025).

Scientometrics

Navigating the Knowledge Stream: Analyzing ChatGPT's Impact on Education Through Bibliometric

Pages 1-27

https://doi.org/10.22034/ijism.2025.2013721.1277

Ahmad Keykha, Golchehreh Ahmadi, Abdalsamad Keramatfar

Abstract The use of ChatGPT technology in educational settings has sparked substantial discussion within the academic community. This innovation has instigated significant transformations in the landscape of educational systems. This article undertakes a bibliometric analysis of research on ChatGPT in Education spanning 2022 to 2023, covering the period from ChatGPT's inception to the present day. The primary aim of this study is to conduct both quantitative and qualitative analyses of research trends in the application of ChatGPT in the field of Education. This comprehensive investigation encompasses document types, subject areas, notable researchers, scientific collaboration, top countries and institutions, influential papers, prominent journals, and emerging topics. The results reveal that the most popular review articles and the highest paper counts were observed across document types. Within the subject area, ChatGPT emerged as the most prominent topic in education. Researchers from the UK and the Netherlands stood out prominently.Regarding the number of authors, articles authored by a single writer were the most abundant. Among the leading countries, the United States ranked first. The most prolific institute was in India, and the most impactful was in the UK. The leading journal was Nature, and the top article was also published there.
 
 

Library and Information Science

In Search of Theories in Library and Information Science: A Topic Modeling Approach

Pages 29-64

https://doi.org/10.22034/ijism.2026.2022500.1393

Bijan Kumar Roy, Parthasarathi Mukhopadhyay

Abstract Finding relevant topics or extracting useful information from large corpora of data has been challenging for academics, and topic modeling, a machine learning algorithm, has emerged as an alternative technique for discovering the underlying semantic structure of large, unstructured collections of documents. Our objectives are to identify the topics covered in the corpus data, group them by topic, show the development of research across different aspects of LIS, and demonstrate the application and use of theories from other domains in the LIS domain. We use several open-source tools for topic modeling, such as LDA (Latent Dirichlet Allocation), Gensim, Jupyter Notebook, ASReview, and OpenRefine, to extract key topics from titles and abstracts. The results of this study are summarized into three main sets: identification of specific topics, word clouds, trends in subjects, and the use and applications of theories in this domain. The model may help policymakers, funding agencies, and the government understand the current and future state of research and take corrective actions to address gaps in the literature on expert systems and applications. It also helps library professionals, classificationists, and researchers identify relevant topics in unstructured long texts and reduce information overload by removing unnecessary research documents.
 

Scientometrics

Research Trends of National Law Universities (NLUs), India: A Scientometric Approach and Knowledge Mapping

Pages 65-80

https://doi.org/10.22034/ijism.2026.2031031.1507

Saddam Hossain, Abid Fakhre Alam, Samar Iqbal Bakhshi, Mohammad Amees

Abstract The study aims to explore current trends in the research output of National Law Universities (NLUs) across the country. Efforts have been made to retrieve and analyze the number of publications, the most productive universities, international collaboration, active authors, co-authorships, author network analysis, and countries. A total of 847 publications are reflected in the Scopus database from 2013 to 2022, the research output trends are observed. Owing to the nature of the data, tools including Bibliometrix, VOSviewer, and MS Excel were used to study scientometric indicators. A number of publications showed a visible increase starting from early 2013 to 2017. Pellissery S with 28 publications, followed jointly by Das R. and Jayaram N., each contributing 16 publications. The National Law School of India University (with 203 publications) in Bangalore has been observed as the most productive institution. The findings of this study have implications for policymakers, academic administrators, and researchers within the NLUs. It will help identify the pros and cons of the current research ecosystem, guide resource allocation decisions, and foster interdisciplinary collaborations. Furthermore, the study can enhance the quality and relevance of legal research within the NLUs, thereby strengthening their position as leading institutions in law.
 

Information Management

Information Culture in the Artificial Intelligence Age: Perspectives of Information Science Faculty Members

Pages 81-96

https://doi.org/10.22034/ijism.2026.2025995.1446

Hasan Mahmoudi Topkanlo

Abstract Information culture reflects the core values, beliefs, and organizational attitudes toward the creation, use, and management of information. This study aims to identify the main components of information culture within university settings in the age of artificial intelligence, based on the views of information science experts. This is an applied study conducted using the reflexive thematic analysis method. The population consisted of faculty members from knowledge and information science departments at Iranian universities, selected through purposive sampling. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to gather data, and the process continued until theoretical saturation was reached after interviewing 17 participants. Participant feedback was used to assess the validity of the research. Qualitative data analysis yielded 142 initial codes, grouped by semantic and conceptual similarities, resulting in 32 subthemes. These subthemes were then organized into four base themes that form the primary structure of the information culture framework proposed in this study. The four base themes of information culture are information management, information technology management, information values and norms, and communication and interaction practices. The findings provide an empirical benchmark for improving and expanding current models, and give scholars and university leaders a practical tool to evaluate and enhance information culture in the era of artificial intelligence within academic environments.
 

Library and Information Science

Information Acquisition and Avoiding Behavior among Parents of Children with Phenylketonuria: A Cross-Sectional Study

Pages 97-109

https://doi.org/10.22034/ijism.2026.2042389.1608

Leila Pirmohammadi Pourfard, Sharareh Kamfar, Boshra Yaghoobi, Mohsen Javadzadeh, Vahide Zeinali

Abstract Information has a crucial role in the management of Phenylketonuria (PKU). This study aimed to investigate information acquisition and avoidance behavior among parents of children with PKU and determine the associated factors. This cross-sectional survey was conducted on 144 parents of children with PKU at a teaching hospital in Tehran, Iran. Information acquisition behavior and information avoidance were evaluated using the questionnaire. Information-seeking and scanning about PKU were reported by 132 (91.7%) and 45 (31.3%) parents, respectively. The primary sources for seeking information about PKU were physicians (99/132, 75%), informative websites (77/132, 58.3%), scientific websites (21/132, 15.9%), and friends and family (20/132, 15.2%). There was a significant relationship between information-seeking behavior and parents' educational level (P=0.03), which remained significant in multivariable analysis after controlling for confounding variables (95% CI: 0.05-0.90, P=0.03). Also, parents' online information-seeking behavior was associated with their age (P=0.03) and educational degree (P=0.008). Thirty parents (20.9%) avoided PKU information at least occasionally. Physicians and the Internet were the primary sources of information among parents of children with PKU. Although PKU is a non-acute disease, information avoidance was reported by the parents. Considering that avoiding information can lead to misunderstanding and disrupt the treatment process, physicians must pay attention to this issue.
 
 
 

Library and Information Science

Uncertainty in Health Information Behavior from the Perspective of Uncertainty Management Theory: A Scoping Review

Pages 111-132

https://doi.org/10.22034/ijism.2026.2047759.1663

Razieh Mehdizadeh-Maraghi, Abbas Harati, Leila Nemati-Anaraki

Abstract Uncertainty is a common experience, especially in the health field. Individuals use many information behaviors to overcome uncertainty. Among the communication theories, the uncertainty management theory focuses more on information behavior. In this regard, relatively good studies have been conducted in the field of uncertainty management theory. The present study, by reviewing related studies, aims to identify the types and sources of uncertainty, the communication reactions of individuals to experienced uncertainty, the reasons for seeking or avoiding information, and the types of information sought or avoided. The research method of this study is a scoping review. After selecting the appropriate search strategy and inclusion and exclusion criteria, 53 articles from the studies extracted from MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, and ISI Web of Knowledge were selected for final review. The results showed that uncertainties in health information behavior occur at both individual and collective levels, and sources and types can be identified according to the context. Also, various strategies are used to deal with uncertainties at these two levels; the most common is seeking and avoiding information in different ways to reduce, increase, maintain, or adapt to uncertainty. In conclusion, this review provides a novel and comprehensive mapping of uncertainty in health information behavior. Unlike previous work, it explicitly delineates the complex reasons and methods underlying information seeking versus avoidance across diverse health contexts. This synthesis offers a foundational framework for developing targeted interventions to improve communication and support for individuals and families navigating health uncertainty.
 
 

Library and Information Science

A Framework for Developing Research Data Governance in Higher Education Institutes: The Case of the University of Qom

Pages 133-154

https://doi.org/10.22034/ijism.2026.2024173.1419

Mehdi Akhlaghi, Yaghoub Norouzi, Ali Taei Zadeh, Behrooz Rasuli

Abstract Research data are vital assets, and higher education institutes (HEIs) are advised to establish spaces for sharing such data. Consequently, the governance of research data has become a significant concern for HEIs. However, the coverage and content of research data governance (RDG) remain unclear. This study aims to identify dimensions and components of an RDG and propose a comprehensive framework in this regard. To identify key dimensions of the RDG, 20 documents on data management and RDG from HEIs worldwide were selected. These documents were coded using MAXQDA software. Subsequently, in-depth interviews were conducted with seven experts in the field. The interviews were transcribed and coded in MAXQDA. The results of document analysis and expert opinions were combined to identify dimensions and components of a comprehensive framework for RDG within HEIs. The research indicates that a comprehensive framework for RDG should address the organizational, legal, and technical aspects of research data management. The framework for RDG comprises five main sections: introduction, approval, principles and policies, roles and responsibilities, and data management. Research data constitute valuable institutional assets that require proper governance. The framework for RDG aims to effectively and efficiently manage these data through policy formulation and delineation of roles and responsibilities within HEIs. To harness the potential benefits of these assets, an RDG policy is essential for HEIs. This is the first study to identify the dimensions and key components of a framework for RDG. While extensive research has been conducted on data management/governance, a structured policy in this domain is neglected. This study attempts to bridge this gap.
 
 

Information Management

Influence of Mobile Learning on Students’ Performance in Higher Education Institutions: A Systematic Literature Review

Pages 155-179

https://doi.org/10.22034/ijism.2026.2025375.1438

Rashmi Singh, Shailendra Kumar Singh, Niraj Mishra

Abstract  
The integration of mobile learning represents a significant advance in online learning. The present study aims to highlight the positive effects of mobile learning on students’ performance in higher education. It underscores how mobile learning encourages interactive learning experiences, promotes collaboration, and enables students to share information through social media platforms. A systematic literature review was conducted encompassing 319 papers published from 2015 to 2023. Of these, 51 papers from 33 distinct journals were identified as pertinent to the subject matter. Database searches were conducted across platforms, including SpringerLink, Elsevier, ProQuest, Taylor & Francis Online, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. In accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) Statement, a well-known framework for systematic reviews, the study aims to ensure transparency and accuracy in the literature search. The findings of this review show positive effects on students’ performance in higher education when mobile devices are used as a learning tool. The study concludes by recommending ways for future research, centered on maximizing the use of mobile technology in higher education. It suggests investigating how students utilize mobile devices, particularly social media, for self-directed learning outside of traditional educational settings.
 
 

Science Policy

Mapping the Research Activity Alignment of Iran’s Top Two Percent Highly Cited Scientists with the Priorities in Iran’s Science and Technology Roadmap

Pages 181-198

https://doi.org/10.22034/ijism.2026.2054837.1756

Saeideh Mirhaghjoo Langeroudi, Fatemeh Alinezhad Chamazkoti

Abstract  
This study examines the alignment between the research domains of Iran’s highly cited scientists and the priorities outlined in the Science and Technology Roadmap. Additionally, it examines patterns of scientific collaboration, the h-index, and the quality of scholarly journals across various impact levels within prioritized research areas. This applied descriptive study employs a scientometric approach to analyze the research output of Iran’s highly cited scientists indexed in the Web of Science and Scopus databases. Data collection was conducted using Microsoft Excel, and statistical analyses—including independent t-tests, chi-square tests, and regression analysis—were performed using SPSS software. Findings indicate a significant alignment between the research activities of highly cited Iranian scientists and the priority areas defined in the Science and Technology Roadmap. Specifically, 78.6% of technology-related articles correspond with the roadmap’s strategic priorities, reflecting researchers’ attention to national needs and key challenges. Despite this strong alignment across technological fields, certain research areas remain underrepresented and warrant greater emphasis. Furthermore, the study finds that alignment with national priorities does not have a significant impact on researchers’ h-index or international collaborations. Given that governments play a pivotal role in policymaking and shaping national strategic documents, ensuring that scientific capabilities are directed toward addressing national demands is essential. Aligning research activities with national priorities is crucial for enhancing a country’s scientific impact and fostering sustainable development. This study identifies gaps in research focus and evaluates the extent to which the scientific contributions of Iran’s top 2% of highly cited researchers align with national strategic objectives.
 

Science Policy

Techno-geopolitics and the Sociopolitical Aspect of Information Science: A Case Study of the US Cyber Strategy in the Obama Administration

Pages 199-226

https://doi.org/10.22034/ijism.2026.2022560.1395

Farnaz Noori

Abstract  
The study of Sociological aspects of information science, as the interplay of science and social structures, gained academic attention and popularity throughout the 1980s. Today, cyberspace, as a primary domain for information creation, dissemination, and consumption, is the subject of extensive sociopolitical research and analysis. Meanwhile, Cybersecurity is an emerging component of national security and continues to play a more crucial role in international relations. A vast body of literature has emerged on how politics and international relations are influenced by the emergence of cyberspace. This literature regards cybersecurity as a dimension of national security and considers its role in international relations. This article examines the relationship among cyberspace, national security, and geopolitics. It focuses on the United States of America as a cyber power to examine how cyber issues have been linked to the national security agenda and have informed decision-making in the country in the 21st century. This renders the entire work a case study and sheds light on the American approach to addressing the cyber threat in the Information Age. Relying on an extended version of the Copenhagen School and its theory of securitization, and using process-tracing as the research method, the author argues that, as an instance of the interaction between technology and geopolitics, the US cyber strategy in the Obama Administration involved a securitization process aimed at stabilizing America’s informational superiority. The process is then analyzed within a framework of the country's security priorities and information policy in the 21st century.
 
 

Information Management

The Effect of Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivation on Knowledge Sharing with the Mediating Role of Organizational Trust

Pages 227-248

https://doi.org/10.22034/ijism.2026.2030488.1500

Hassan Mantegh, Fatemh Zandian, Mohammad Hassanzadeh, Atefeh Sharif

Abstract The aim of this research was to investigate the effect of the motivation of employees of automotive companies on their knowledge sharing with regard to the mediating role of the organizational trust variable. In this study, a sample of 384 employees from Iran's automotive industry was selected using simple random sampling. The tool used to collect information from the samples was a questionnaire. Additionally, the questionnaire was analyzed using SPSS 25 and the structural equation modeling software SmartPLS V3. The findings show that both internal and external motivation significantly affect knowledge sharing (both knowledge-sharing behavior and intention), and the effects of these motivations were nearly equal and moderate. The research results showed that the independent variables (extrinsic motivation, intrinsic motivation, and organizational trust) accounted for 57% of the variance in the knowledge-sharing variable among automobile manufacturing employees. Also, the experimental results of this study showed that the organizational trust variable has the role of a (partial) mediating variable in relation to the effect of employees' external motivation on their knowledge sharing. According to the research results, motivational factors (internal and external) are effective in increasing organizational knowledge sharing by increasing the organizational trust of employees. Therefore, it is necessary for practitioners, managers, and activists in the field of knowledge management at the country's automotive industry companies to provide a basis for improving organizational trust and knowledge sharing by increasing employee motivation.
 

Scientometrics

Research Trends in the Fifth Industrial Revolution Field

Pages 249-262

https://doi.org/10.22034/ijism.2026.2045444.1637

Saeed Bakhtiari, Ebrahim Emami Qara-Tapeh, Behnam Amiri

Abstract The present study investigates the transformative developments associated with the Fifth Industrial Revolution, with particular emphasis on the emergence and evolution of fifth-generation industrial technologies globally. The research examines not only the technological shifts themselves but also their broader implications for societies, products, and industrial systems. In doing so, the present investigation addresses research trends concerning Industry 5.0, leading countries in scientific output, the subject categorisation in Industry 5.0 research, and related emerging topics in this field. To achieve these aims, the study employs a scientometric methodology. All relevant documents-including peer-reviewed articles, books, manuscripts, and conference papers-were retrieved from the Web of Science database for the period 2014–2023 using a comprehensive search strategy targeting the field of fifth-generation industry (using the search term TS= “Industry 5.0”). In total, 3,502 publications were identified. The dataset was subsequently analyzed using SPSS and CiteSpace to uncover publication trends, collaboration networks, and topical structures within the field. The findings reveal a marked increase in scholarly output on fifth-generation industrial technologies, from 184 publications in 2014 to 1,430 in 2023. China stands out as the most productive contributor, accounting for 798 studies over the past decade. Moreover, China and the United States were among the earliest countries to initiate systematic research on fifth-generation industry, indicating their leading role in shaping the field's intellectual foundations. Among disciplinary areas, food science and technology constitutes the most prominent category with 453 studies, followed by environmental sciences with 325 publications, and biotechnology and applied microbiology with 301 publications-highlighting the multidisciplinary nature of fifth-generation industrial research. Topical analyses further demonstrate that themes such as Industry 5.0, systems thinking, sustainable development, and digital twins have remained consistently central since the introduction of the fifth-generation industry concept. The findings underscore that, in the context of the Fifth Industrial Revolution, technological paradigms have undergone substantial reconfiguration. Emerging innovations-including 4D printing, collaborative robots (cobots), and cognitive computing-have fundamentally reshaped production processes, service delivery mechanisms, and the broader industrial ecosystem.
 
 

Information Management

Identifying Data Librarian Skills in Research Data Management Using Meta-Synthesis Method

Pages 263-287

https://doi.org/10.22034/ijism.2026.2050411.1698

Zohre Azizi

Abstract Many librarians are assuming new roles in the provision of research data services. However, the emerging field of data librarianship-particularly the specific skills it requires—has not yet been clearly defined. Therefore, the aim of this study is to explore the essential skills librarians need to effectively engage in research data management. In the present study, a meta-synthesis method was employed, following the seven-step framework proposed by Sandelowski and Barroso, to integrate data extracted from previous sources. Search terms were examined across titles, abstracts, keywords, and full texts of resources available in reputable academic databases. Ultimately, 26 credible sources-focusing on data librarians in the context of research data management-were selected for analysis. By analyzing these sources, nine main categories were identified: management and familiarity with data, information technology and information systems, behavioral and communication characteristics, legal and policy skills, research methods and project management, education and consulting, promotion and provision of services, subject knowledge and familiarity with the organization, education and library skill.  Our study identifies the various essential skills required to enhance research data management in information centers-particularly within research and academic libraries-for librarians as well as students of Information Science and Knowledge Studies, who are regarded as the primary stakeholders in this domain.
 

Library and Information Science

Determinants of Reading Habits and Reading Promotion in the Era of Technology: A Library and Information Science Perspective

Pages 289-308

https://doi.org/10.22034/ijism.2026.2070353.1896

Mohammad Reza Niazmand, Mohammad Reza Vasfi, Mahshid Eltemasi

Abstract Abstract
Reading habits and the promotion of a reading culture are recognized as essential social imperatives in many countries, underpinning cultural identity. These practices enhance knowledge, support individual development, and contribute to national sustainability. Despite their importance, recent declines in per capita reading rates and rapid technological change necessitate a reassessment of reading promotion policies and strategies. This study identifies the dimensions and components that influence reading habits and reading promotion, with a particular focus on technological factors. This study employed a scoping review methodology, guided by the established framework of Arksey and O'Malley. A systematic search of five major databases Web of Science, Scopus, ProQuest, Google Scholar, and Embase was conducted to locate relevant publications up to December 2024. The search strategy utilized pertinent keywords, with filters applied to include only English-language articles and specific documents. To extract key insights, a thematic analysis was performed. This process involved iterative team discussions to synthesize and identify prevailing themes concerning reading habits, derived from a thorough examination of the selected literature. The study categorized its findings into 40 sub-components and 8 main components: individual, socio-environmental, technological, cultural, book characteristics, infrastructural, economic, and governmental factors. These components were identified as the primary influences on reading habits and reading promotion. Accurate identification of these factors provides a foundation for improving reading behaviors in society. Assessing their effectiveness enables the development of targeted strategies to foster a reading culture, supporting the growth of sustainable reading habits in future generations.

Uses and Gratification Theory in Connection with Knowledge and Information Science: A Proposed Conceptual Model

Volume 14, Issue 2, Summer 2016

Jafar Mehrad, Pegah Tajer

Abstract This paper was aimed at clarifying the links between Uses and Gratification Theory (UGT) and Knowledge and Information Science in both traditional and modern contexts. Uses and Gratification conceptual model were also proposed both for library and information centers, and for interactive information retrieval systems. Review and analysis of published resources were used as the methodology of the article. Findings showed that UGT is in close connection with five laws of library science and their web version on one hand, and the user-oriented paradigm on the other hand. Therefore, the components of uses and gratification conceptual model of knowledge and information science in traditional and modern contexts consist of vast types of information needs, society, end users' features, information gratification sought, information gratification obtained, relevance gratification, library and information centers, and interactive information retrieval system uses. Applying UGT to knowledge and information science makes it possible to identify active and inactive users based on cognitive-cultural patterns. Moreover, automatic personalized interactive information retrieval systems were improved.

Visualizing the Academic Library of the Future Based on Collections, Spaces, Technologies, and Services

Volume 21, Issue 1, Winter 2023, Pages 219-243

https://doi.org/10.22034/ijism.2023.700794

Sanmati Jinendran Jain, Prashanta Kumar Behera

Abstract This paper analyzed the literature on collection development, space planning, futuristic technologies, and information services related to academic libraries. The content analysis method was applied to review these papers. The selected papers for review have the potential to influence the future of academic libraries. This review of the related studies shows that the academic library has evolved into a hybrid model, combining traditional collections and a modern, sophisticated knowledge warehouse. It is predicted that the future library will be a place for aesthetic, emotion-rich social centers and will act as a knowledge refinery. Developing innovative technologies and services and improving the skills of library staff are significant challenges for the future. This study has designed a new conceptual framework in this area, identifying the possible scenarios for future academic libraries.

Email and Website-Based Phishing Attack: Examining Online Users Security Behavior in Cyberspace Environment

Volume 21, Issue 1, Winter 2023, Pages 245-262

https://doi.org/10.22034/ijism.2022.1977800.0

kibreab adane, Berhanu Beyene

Abstract Despite Emails and websites being widely used for communication, collaboration, and day-to-day activity, not all online users have the same knowledge and skills when determining the credibility of visited websites and email content. As a result, phishing, an identity theft cyber-attack that targets humans rather than computers, was born to harvest internet users' confidential information by taking advantage of human behavior and hurting an organization's continuity, reputation, and credibility. Because the success of phishing attacks depends on human behavior, using the Health-Belief Model, the study's objective is to examine significant factors that influence online users' security behavior in the context of Email and website-based phishing attacks. The model included eight predictor variables and was validated using quantitative data from 138 academic staff. The study findings exhibit that 4 out of 8 predictor variables, namely Perceived-Barriers, Perceived-Susceptibility, Self-efficacy, and Security-Awareness, are statistically significant in determining users' security behavior. The study's outcome is to assist in the appropriate design of both online and offline content for cyber security awareness programs, focusing on Email and website-based phishing attacks.

Social Networks

Social Network Analysis of Editorial Board Interlocking Phenomena from the Perspective of Astronomy and Astrophysics Journals

Volume 21, Issue 1, Winter 2023, Pages 129-150

https://doi.org/10.22034/ijism.2022.1977746.0

Farshid Danesh, Samaneh Kesht Karan, Lili Banihashemi, Somayeh GhaviDel

Abstract Editorial board members (EBMs) of journals play a pivotal role in authentic international scientific journals. Editorial Board Interlocking (EBI) phenomenon reflects the effectiveness and importance of the scholarly journal's editorial boards in various scientific fields. The primary purpose of this paper is to conduct a Social Network Analysis (SNA) of EBI phenomena from the perspective of astronomy and astrophysics journals. The present study is applied research based on EBI, SNA, and the descriptive-analytical approach. The statistical population of this study consists of the editorial board members of all journals of astronomy and astrophysics indexed in the JCR and official journal websites. There are 1597 job positions in 67 astronomy and astrophysics journals occupied by the 1394 scholars. Data analysis shows EBI for 95 scholars and 79 organizations. "Aleksei A. Starobinsky" from Russia and the Russian Academy of Sciences, "Daniel J. Scheeres" from the United States, and the University of Colorado Boulder have the highest EBI contributions in five journals. "Daniel J. Scheeres," with a centrality of 39, has the highest degree of centrality measurement among the EBMs. The presence of more than five times as many men as women indicates that astronomy and astrophysics journals are considered "masculine" by the editorial board. The EBI phenomenon is observed in astronomy and astrophysics journals due to the limited number of peop le eligible for the editorial board. Due to EBI, a limited number of famous scholars are made macro-policies such as publishing the articles, referees selections, and the reviewing process. Astronomy and astrophysics journals have "elite" academic networks. Gender inequality exists among EBMs, and the majority of them are male. Accordingly, these journals are "men's journals."

Modelling Referencing Competency and Individual Performance

Volume 20, Issue 1, Winter 2022

Mohamad Rahimi Mohamad Rosman, Nik Nur Izzati Nik Rosli, Noor Masliana Razlan, Amira Idayu Mohd Shukry, Noor Azreen Alimin, Nurfatihah S Baharuddin

Abstract Competency is the ability to perform a task efficiently and effectively.  One of the necessary skills students need is writing, understanding, and formatting the references section of their work. However, knowledge of this competency is non-existent or unknown in the field of Library and Information Science (LIS). Therefore, the purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between referencing competencies and individual’s performance in the context of undergraduate students. A quantitative method was adopted; 292 respondents were involved, selected from undergraduate students at one of the Malaysian local universities. Descriptive analysis was performed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26. On the other hand, inferential analysis was performed using Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modelling using SmartPLS version 3.2.8. Findings show that knowledge, skills, and ability positively and significantly affect individual performance.https://dorl.net/dor/ 20.1001.1.20088302.2022.20.1.23.6

Understanding the Impact of the Dark Web on Society: A Systematic Literature Review

Volume 21, Issue 4, Autumn 2023, Pages 1-21

https://doi.org/10.22034/ijism.2023.1978002.0

Lizzy Ofusori, Rimuljo Hendradi

Abstract The dark web is considered an expansion of the deep web, intentionally hidden from the surface web. It can only be accessed with a particular group of browsers that allow the user to stay anonymous while navigating the dark web. With the untraceable hidden layer of the Internet and the anonymity of the users associated with the dark web, several impressive cybercrimes have been reported. This paper aims to examine the impact of the dark web on society. The article systematically reviews relevant academic literature and books to understand how the dark web works and its societal effects. The study has found that the dark web is an enabler of several cybercrimes. Moreover, while governments and regulatory authorities have introduced strategic detection techniques on the dark web, cybercriminals are adaptive towards the strategies and, given time, will usually find ways to bypass such detection techniques. It is recommended that the regulatory authorities and cyber threat intelligence periodically review the detection techniques for effective monitoring. Furthermore, security agencies or forensic analysts should ensure that they are updated with the latest scientific knowledge on the safe management of the dark web by undertaking more training in cyber security. There is also a need for further research to focus on awareness campaigns about the dangers of the dark web.

A Bibliometric Analysis in Web of Science Publications for Obtaining Global Research Trends and Hot Topics in Library and Information Science

Volume 21, Issue 4, Autumn 2023, Pages 309-328

https://doi.org/10.22034/ijism.2023.1977944.0

Sirous Panahi, Somayeh Ghaffari, Mahshid Lotfi

Abstract This research aimed to specify research trends in Library and Information Science (LIS) from 2011 to 2020 and hot papers in this field from July 2020 to July 2021 in the Web of Science (WoS) database. This research was of the type applied, scientometric, and descriptive. The study population was all articles in the field of LIS from 2011 to July 2021. The WoS database was used to collect data. To determine the research trend in the field of LIS, the results were limited to 2011-2020, and to determine the hot papers, this period was limited to July 2020 to July 2021. The obtained data were analyzed using the word co-occurrence technique and social network analysis. UCINET, NetDraw, and VOSviewer software were used to draw scientific maps and identify central subjects and people. "Social media" with 259 and "qualitative" with 53 were the keywords with the highest and lowest frequencies, respectively. Library and emerging technologies (106), citation analysis, scientometrics and webometrics (58), electronic information, information security, and protection (56) were three significant topic clusters in the studied area. The results indicated that the research topics in LIS have changed and evolved in the last ten years despite new and up-to-date topics.

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