Qatar National Library

About: Qatar National Library is a archive organization based out in Doha, Qatar. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Digital literacy & Digital library. The organization has 11 authors who have published 16 publications receiving 35 citations. The organization is also known as: QNL.

Merry work: libraries and citizen science

Abstract: This article highlights important new opportunities for libraries by analysing the roles they could potentially play in citizen science projects. Citizen science is one of the eight pillars of open science identified by the Open Science Policy Platform, an EC Working Group. The authors of the article suggest that roles for libraries wishing to support or engage in citizen science could include contributing to specific skills development; building and maintaining collections of protocols, data forms and educational materials; contributing to making data FAIR; supporting new communication roles; participating in recruitment and helping volunteers to participate in projects; participating in marketing activities; building further advocacy and developing or implementing a toolkit for citizen science projects. Several of these roles are illustrated by contributing authors in case studies from their institutions, where citizen science has already been embraced: University College London, the University of Barcelona, the University of Southern Denmark and Qatar National Library. This article thus presents a snapshot of what libraries have so far achieved in this sphere and the challenges and opportunities which remain.

Library collections and services during Covid-19: Qatar National Library experience

Abstract: The outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic made a tragic impact on the entire world throughout the economy, education, businesses, health, jobs and so on. In order to survive this disease, and to minimi...

Investigation of Biochemical Alterations in Ischemic Stroke Using Fourier Transform Infrared Imaging Spectroscopy—A Preliminary Study

Abstract: Objective: Brain damage, long-term disability and death are the dreadful consequences of ischemic stroke. It causes imbalance in the biochemical constituents that distorts the brain dynamics. Understanding the sub-cellular alterations associated with the stroke will contribute to deeper molecular understanding of brain plasticity and recovery. Current routine approaches examining lipid and protein biochemical changes post stoke can be difficult. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) imaging spectroscopy can play a vital role in detecting these molecular alterations on a sub-cellular level due to its high spatial resolution, accuracy and sensitivity. This study investigates the biochemical and molecular changes in peri-infract zone (PIZ) (contiguous area not completely damaged by stroke) and ipsi-lesional white matter (WM) (right below the stroke and PIZ regions) nine weeks post photothrombotic ischemic stroke in rats. Materials and Methods: FTIR imaging spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques were applied to investigate brain tissue samples while hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) stained images of adjacent sections were prepared for comparison and examination the morphological changes post stroke. Results: TEM results revealed shearing of myelin sheaths and loss of cell membrane, structure and integrity after ischemic stroke. FTIR results showed that ipsi-lesional PIZ and WM experienced reduction in total protein and total lipid content compared to contra-lesional hemisphere. The lipid/protein ratio reduced in PIZ and adjacent WM indicated lipid peroxidation, which results in lipid chain fragmentation and an increase in olefinic content. Protein structural change is observed in PIZ due to the shift from random coli and α-helical structures to β-sheet conformation. Conclusion: FTIR imaging bio-spectroscopy provide novel biochemical information at sub-cellular levels that be difficult to be obtained by routine approaches. The results suggest that successful therapeutic strategy that is based on administration of anti-oxidant therapy, which could reduce and prevent neurotoxicity by scavenging the lipid peroxidation products. This approach will mitigate tissue damage in chronic ischemic period. FTIR imaging bio-spectroscopy can be used as a powerful tool and offer new approach in stroke and neurodegenerative diseases research.

Qatar National Library – Architecture as innovation in the Arab world:

Abstract: The new National Library of Qatar is introduced, beginning with the announcement of the planned library, its core mission, the staffing, the services, and the collections as it readies itself for opening day. A unique open concept architecture was selected that invites exploration and creativity by library users. The National Library will also serve as a central university library in Education City as well as a metropolitan library for all the citizens of Qatar. This article also demonstrates an innovative method of merging all collections regardless of the intended audience.

Libraries in the State of Qatar: Current Situation and Future Outlook

Abstract: Head of the Information Literacy Program, Qatar University, Doha, QatarOver the last twenty years, the State of Qatar has witnessed colossal developments in its various sectors such as economy, society, technology, and education. The Supreme Educational Council along with the Ministry of Education worked to enhance the status of the educational sector; there has been a rise in the number of local and international schools. The Qatar Foundation implemented partnership programs with prestigious universities from the USA, UK, and France. The public sector, through its Qatar University Campus, attracted local and international students. This article highlights the current state of libraries in Qatar by sectors, and provides a general overview of their role and nature, and shares some statistical data. The article also analyzes the limitations and challenges, as well as future recommendations.