Control Information Research Articles

When library cares: mining insights from LibQUAL+ to determine university students’ priorities

PurposeThis study aims to evaluate students' satisfaction with university library services in southern Punjab, Pakistan, emphasizing their perspective on service quality (SQ).Design/methodology/approachA LibQUAL+® survey with 22 core items was conducted within university settings using convenience sampling. In total, 345 usable responses were returned through Google Forms. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, ordinal logistic regression test, Pearson and Deviance statistics and chi-square test to assess the satisfaction status of library users.FindingsThe study found that libraries generally meet SQ standards. However, there were minor gaps in information control (IC) and library as place (LP).Practical implicationsThe study provides library administrators with actionable insights to enhance services, encouraging stakeholders to adopt optimal library practices for heightened efficiency and user satisfaction.Social implicationsIt highlights the crucial role of libraries in shaping future societal progress by emphasizing the need for elevated user services. Librarians can use this knowledge to modify their planning and take impactful initiatives that align with the evolving needs of their users.Originality/valueWhile many studies have utilized LibQUAL, this research is unique for its focus on addressing university library services in underdeveloped regions facing economic challenges. It attempts to fill the information gap by offering a transferable approach for strategic priorities in similar settings.

Abstract P213: Mechanisms of Renin-Angiotensin System-Mediated Nitric Oxide Signaling in Podocytes

Introduction: The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is a crucial cardiovascular and renal function regulator. Podocytes, glomerular epithelial cells that play a pivotal role in maintaining the renal filtration barrier, are key targets for RAS peptides. Our findings showed that RAS can promote calcium (Ca 2+ ) and nitric oxide (NO) signaling in podocytes. Moreover, a decrease in NO bioavailability directly correlates with glomerular filtration barrier damage, Ca 2+ overload, and the development of salt-sensitive hypertension. We hypothesized that RAS-mediated NO production is crucial for Ca 2+ control and cytoskeletal rearrangements in podocytes, contributing to glomerular filtration regulation. Methods: We performed live confocal imaging on human podocytes and freshly isolated rat glomeruli to detect the production of NO (DAF-FM) and Ca 2+ (Fluo-8). RAS peptides (Ang II, III, IV, 1-7, 1-9, and TRV120027) were used to stimulate cells, and NO and Ca 2+ production were measured. Blockers for Ang II Type 1 (AT1R), Ang II Type 2 (AT2R), and MAS receptors were used to identify the pathways involved in NO production. The dynamic changes in podocyte cytoskeleton mediated by RAS-NO intracellular signaling were detected using rhodamine-phalloidin staining and scanning ion microscopy. The NOS isoform-specific blockers were used to determine the source of NO in podocytes. ANOVA with post-hoc was used for comparisons. Results: Angiotensins II and III generate the most profound increases in NO levels in podocytes. Ang II, Ang III, and Ang 1-7 promote NO production by activating AT2R (n ≥ 20, p < 0.01). Interestingly, the increase in NO modulates AT1R- and β-arrestin-mediated Ca 2+ signaling (n ≥ 20, p < 0.05), suggesting the role of the NO/AT2R axis in Ca 2+ control in podocytes. NO production correlates with podocyte volume increase, and scanning ion microscopy experiments further confirmed that AT2R activation and corresponding NO elevation are responsible for the protrusion of podocyte's lamellipodia. Finally, we found that in podocytes, NOS1 is responsible for NO bioavailability, accounting for 69±5% of the total NO response, while the remaining NO levels are generated by NOS2 (39±5%). Conclusion: Our data show that RAS activation promotes NO production in podocytes, mainly via the AT2R pathway. NO is crucial for Ca 2+ control in podocytes and lamellipodia formation, suggesting the essential role of NO in glomerular filtration barrier function.

Copper-Catalyzed Diastereo-, Enantio-, and (Z)-Selective Aminoallylation of Ketones through Reductive Couplings of Azatrienes for the Synthesis of Allylic 1,2-Amino Tertiary Alcohols.

We introduce a method for the (Z)-selective aminoallylation of a range of ketones to prepare allylic 1,2-amino tertiary alcohols with excellent diastereo- and enantioselectivity. Copper-catalyzed reductive couplings of 2-azatrienes with aryl/alkyl and dialkyl ketones proceed with Ph-BPE as the supporting ligand, generating anti-amino alcohols with >98% (Z)-selectivity under mild conditions. The utility of the products is highlighted through several transformations, including those that leverage the (Z)-allylic amine moiety for diastereoselective reactions of the alkene. Calculations illustrate Curtin-Hammett control in the product formation over other possible isomers and the origin of (Z)-selectivity.

Epigenome editing revealed the role of DNA methylation of T-DMR/CpG island shore on Runx2 transcription

RUNX2 is a transcription factor crucial for bone formation. Mutant mice with varying levels of Runx2 expression display dosage-dependent skeletal abnormalities, underscoring the importance of Runx2 dosage control in skeletal formation. RUNX2 activity is regulated by several molecular mechanisms, including epigenetic modification such as DNA methylation. In this study, we investigated whether targeted repressive epigenome editing including hypermethylation to the Runx2-DMR/CpG island shore could influence Runx2 expression using Cas9-based epigenome-editing tools. Through the transient introduction of CRISPRoff-v2.1 and gRNAs targeting Runx2-DMR into MC3T3-E1 cells, we successfully induced hypermethylation of the region and concurrently reduced Runx2 expression during osteoblast differentiation. Although the epigenome editing of Runx2-DMR did not impact the expression of RUNX2 downstream target genes, these results indicate a causal relationship between the epigenetic status of the Runx2-DMR and Runx2 transcription. Additionally, we observed that hypermethylation of the Runx2-DMR persisted for at least 24 days under growth conditions but decreased during osteogenic differentiation, highlighting an endogenous DNA demethylation activity targeting the Runx2-DMR during the differentiation process. In summary, our study underscore the usefulness of the epigenome editing technology to evaluate the function of endogenous genetic elements and revealed that the Runx2-DMR methylation is actively regulated during osteoblast differentiation, subsequently could influence Runx2 expression.

Management of midline diastema using the direct composite resin technique - A case report

Diastema or space between the anterior teeth is a common aesthetic complaint of patients. Direct composite resins in midline diastema cases allow dentists to have complete control in formation of natural smiles. This case report describes midline diastema closure with esthetic composite layering technique. A 25-year-old male patient reported to the clinic, with a complaint of spacing in the upper front tooth region of the jaw. The direct aesthetic composite laminate veneer was considered as the treatment of choice for the build-up of both maxillary central incisors as a more conservative, inexpensive, aesthetic, and quicker option. A2 & A3 shades were selected; prepared tooth surface was etched for 15 seconds using 37% phosphoric acid, rinsed with water for 20 seconds, and air dried with slight air pressure. Bonding agent was applied (Adper single Bond, 3M ESPE, USA) and cured for 20 seconds using (Vivadent Blue phase) curing light. The labial surface of the restoration was flattened using red banded knife-edge tip diamond bur. The natural look of the restored teeth was achieved after finishing and polishing. At six-month and one-year recalls the general outlook of the maxillary anterior teeth was considered natural and aesthetical. Clinically, both restorations have no fractures and also the restoration margins on both maxillary central incisors demonstrated no discolorations. By taking this into consideration and according to the positive results, an experienced dentist with proper case selection, using an appropriate technique and modern materials, can perform highly aesthetic and durable direct composite resin restorations that can satisfy patients as under the conditions of the case presented.

Geomechanical analysis of lost circulation control in tight formations

Unconventional oil and gas reservoirs, especially that in tight formations, contribute great parts to the global energy. During drilling in tight formations, lost circulation was one of the major problems, which can cause large amount of non operation time and millions of losses. In order to migrate the problem, lost circulation materials (LCMs) were used to prevent reopening of the fracture by isolating the fracture tip while the calculation of stress intensity factor (SIF) and fracture width is the key to LCMs design. In this paper, a dual porosity medium flow model suitable for tight formation is established to calculate the pressure distribution in fracture, and the fracture width and fracture reopening pressure (FROP) is then calculated by using the semi-analytical fracture mechanics model. Sensitivity analysis of critical parameters, for example, fracture length, wellbore radius, LCMs permeability, viscosity, wellbore pressure, and two rock-mechanics-related properties are implemented. The fracture width is larger in the formation with large horizontal principal stress anisotropy, low Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio. The increase in fracture length, wellbore radius and wellbore pressure also contributes to fracture opening. Meanwhile, we compared the situation before and after fracture plugging and the results emphasize that the fracture reopening is less likely to occur under the conditions of high viscosity and low permeability LCMs. The method proposed in this study can be used to calculate fracture width and FROP, which has potential significant application for lost circulation control in tight formation.

The Development and Deployment of Degradable Temporary Plugging Material for Ultra-Deepwater Wells

The fractured granite reservoir is well developed in Yongle block, which leads to severe drilling fluid loss-circulation. To solve the technical problem of both plugging and reservoir protection, on the basis of comprehensive literature research and laboratory tests at home and abroad, a polymer with an appropriate molecular weight, an organic crosslinking agent and other auxiliary materials were screened. In addition, a kind of high-temperature resistant loss-circulation plugging gel, which could be formed by timing and self-degradation, was developed. The high-strength gel loss-circulation system can be established by the development of a dynamic covalent borate ester bond crosslinking agent, which can crosslink with polyvinyl alcohol and xanthan gum. This system is of formidable strength and can be used for loss-circulation control in a fractured formation. The dynamic covalent borate ester bond tends to break due to the peroxide glue breaker under low pH levels, which can accelerate the degradation of the plugging gel into small molecules. The degradable temporary plugging material can ensure high-performance sealing and self-degradation capabilities of the fractured granite reservoir. The laboratory results showed that the high-performance degradable gel system was of adjustable gelling time, high gelling strength and high sealing capability. Its pressure-bearing could reach 5.8 MPa under 110 °C with 3.5 mm width of fractured granite core. Before crosslinking, the system also boasted promising thixotropy and rheology. The gel breaking time of the system was short, which could be completely broken with 6.1 h in 6% peroxide solution with pH of 4. The gelation time was related to the type of crosslinking agent, the amount of crosslinking agent and temperature. With the increase of temperature, the gelation time of gel system decreased. With the increase of the amount of the agent, the gelation time of gel system decreased. The gelation time was 105 min when using a 1% dynamic covalent borate ester bond crosslinking agent at 80 °C; the gelation time was 72 min when using a 1% dynamic covalent borate ester bond crosslinking agent at 110 °C; the gelation time was 71 min when using a 2% dynamic covalent borate ester bond crosslinking agent at 80 °C; the gelation time was 65 min when using a 2% dynamic covalent borate ester bond crosslinking agent at 110 °C; the gelation time was 72 min when using a 1% chromium crosslinking agent at 80 °C; the gelation time was 63 min when using a 2% chromium crosslinking agent at 80 °C; and the gel system had good reservoir protection performance. The permeability recovery rate was introduced to evaluate reservoir protection performance. The permeability recovery rate of using the dynamic covalent borate ester bond crosslinking agent was superior to that of using the chromium crosslinking agent. Using the dynamic covalent borate ester bond crosslinking agent, when the fracture width was 1.6 mm, the temperature was 80 °C and the soaking time was 8 h, the permeability recovery rate was 90.32%; when the fracture width was 0.75 mm, the temperature was 80 °C and the soaking time was 8 h, the permeability recovery rate was 84.53%. Using the chromium crosslinking agent, when the fracture width was 1.6 mm, the temperature was 80 °C and the soaking time was 12 h, the permeability recovery rate was 59.58%; when the fracture width was 0.75 mm, the temperature was 80 °C and the soaking time was 12 h, the permeability recovery rate was 45.65%. The viscosity of the residual solution was low and was helpful for reservoir protection during loss-circulation control under the fractured granite reservoir condition. The novel degradable temporary plugging material can solve the loss-circulation problem of the ultra-deepwater fractured granite reservoir. In addition, the material can pave the way for the exploration and development of a vast amount of hydrocarbon resources in the South China Sea.

Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation Patient-Caregiver Dyad Perspectives on Participation in a Digital Storytelling Intervention: A Qualitative Approach

Storytelling has long been considered an effective means of communication, allowing the teller to process their emotions in light of particular life challenges. Effects on the listener also have been demonstrated to be beneficial, especially if the listener is faced with a similar life challenge. Less is known regarding the potential effects of storytelling on listening dyads and opportunities for joint processing following exposure to relevant stories. We sought to study these phenomena in the context of hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT), a demanding medical procedure requiring intensive informal caregiving and thus great patient-caregiver entwinement. The purpose of this qualitative descriptive study was to explore participants' perceptions of a 4-week web-based digital storytelling (DST) intervention using both quantitative ratings of acceptability and qualitative coding of interviews conducted after intervention completion. A total of 202 participants (101 HCT patient-caregiver dyads) were recruited from the Mayo Clinic Arizona and randomized into either a DST arm or an Information Control (IC) arm. Participants in the DST arm rated the acceptability of the intervention and were asked to participate in a 30-minute phone interview to discuss their experience with the DST intervention. All interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim and imported into NVivo 12 for coding and analysis, using a combination of deductive and inductive approaches to organize the data, create categories, and develop themes and subthemes. A total of 38 participants (19 HCT patient-caregiver dyads) completed the post-intervention interviews. Patients were 63% male and 82% White, 68% received allogeneic HCT, and their mean age was 55 years. The median time from HCT was 25 days (range, 6 to 56 days). Caregivers were mostly patients' spouses (73%) and female (69%), with a mean age of 56 years. In general, the 4-week web-based DST intervention was well accepted and liked by both patients and caregivers regarding the duration, dyadic participation, and convenience of participating in the intervention at home. Patients and caregivers who completed the DST intervention indicated that they were satisfied with the intervention (mean score, 4.5 of 5), were likely to recommend it to others (mean score, 4.4), would watch more stories (mean score, 4.1), and that the experience was worth their time (mean score, 4.6). Major themes that emerged from the qualitative analysis included (1) building communal connection through engaging with the stories; (2) positive emotional growth after HCT; (3) value of gaining the other's perspective; and (4) impact of open communication on the patient-caregiver relationship. A web-based DST intervention provides an attractive format through which to deliver a nonpharmacologic psychosocial intervention to HCT patient-caregiver dyads. Watching the emotional content in digital stories may help patients and caregivers cope with psychoemotional challenges together and provide an opportunity for emotional disclosure. Further work on determining optimal paths to disclosure is warranted.

Self-filling and plugging performance of a thixotropic polymer gel for lost circulation control in fractured formation

Drilling fluid loss in fractured formations hinders the progress of oil and gas exploration and its development worldwide. Improving the success rate of lost circulation control in fractured formations of oilfields worldwide is crucial for safe, efficient, and economical drilling. The thixotropy of gel solution is an important factor affecting the fracture space filling and plugging performance of thixotropic polymer gel. In this work, a thixotropic polymer gel with shear thinning and static thickening is used as a plugging agent for fractured formations. The self-filling behaviour and plugging performance of the gel in fractures were studied by visual physical simulation. The results showed that the thixotropic polymer gel was less affected by the fracture width when filling in the fracture, which could realize the uniform filling of the 12 mm wide fracture space. In addition, the thixotropic polymer gellant could be pumped in at high shear rates and retained in the loss space at low shear rates. Meanwhile, the plugging performance of the thixotropic gel on different scales of fractures was studied. Thixotropic polymer gel system could reside in different fracture types (uniform fracture, wedge-shaped fracture) and different fracture sizes. The breakthrough pressure of the thixotropic polymer gel in the wedge-shaped fracture was higher than that in the uniform fracture for identical outlet sizes. The thixotropic polymer gel had a pressure bearing capacity of 6.6 MPa in a wedge-shaped fracture with 5 mm width. The pressure bearing capacity of the gel to the wedge-shaped fracture with a width of 3 mm at the outlet reached 7.3 MPa, showed excellent pressure bearing capacity. The study on the self-filling behaviour and plugging performance of thixotropic polymer gel could provide theoretical and technical reference for efficient plugging in the drilling process of fractured formations.

Adaptive Predefined-Time Sliding Mode Control for QUADROTOR Formation with Obstacle and Inter-Quadrotor Avoidance

In this paper, aiming at the problem of control and obstacle avoidance in quadrotor formation when mathematical modeling is not accurate, the artificial potential field method with virtual force is used to plan the obstacle avoidance path of quadrotor formation to solve the problem that the artificial potential field method may fall into local optimal. The adaptive predefined-time sliding mode control algorithm based on RBF neural networks enables the quadrotor formation to track the planned trajectory in a predetermined time and also adaptively estimates the unknown interference in the mathematical model of the quadrotor to improve the control performance. Through theoretical derivation and simulation experiments, this study verified that the proposed algorithm can make the planned trajectory of the quadrotor formation avoid obstacles and make the error between the true trajectory and the planned trajectory converge within a predetermined time under the premise of adaptive estimation of unknown interference in the quadrotor model.

In-situ imaging of nucleation and growth of superlattices from nanoscale colloidal nanoparticles

Nanoparticle-based superlattices have attracted extensive research efforts due to their versatile composition and packing-dependent optical, magnetic, electronic, catalytic, mechanical properties. Yet the experimental understanding of the thermodynamics and pathways of the crystallization processes for these systems, which govern their ultimate morphology, size, and packing structure, has for long remained underexplored. This minireview highlights recent integration of liquid-phase transmission electron microscopy, which allows for real-space, real-time direct imaging of the crystallization processes at the single-particle level, with simulation and the conceptual framework established by pioneers such as Dr. A. A. Chernov. Different aspects of superlattice formation were revealed by direct imaging for the first time, such as the existence of prenucleation precursor in nonclassical crystallization, surface energy-dependent growth, and coalescence, allowing for the charting of phase coordinates and thermodynamic quantities at the nanoscale. We discuss the similarities and differences of crystal growth behaviors in atomic and nanoparticle systems, as well as engineering opportunities to fashion, shape, and achieve quality control in superlattice formation from nanoparticles, for next-generation optical and mechanical metamaterials.

Visual servoing for coordinated precise attitude control in the TOM small satellite formation

Formations of multiple satellites observe target areas on the Earth’s surface from different perspectives, enabling construction of 3D surface maps by photogrammetric methods. The main objective of TOM (Telematics Earth Observation Mission) is to monitor ash clouds during Volcanic Eruptions with a satellite formation consisting of three CubeSats. TOM is Bavaria’s contribution to the multi-national Telematics International Mission (TIM), composed of 7 satellites by partners from 4 continents. To achieve sufficient overlap of the images for the usage of photogrammetric methods, very precise and coordinated attitude control of the satellites is necessary. This paper presents a vision-based attitude control approach using image data to calculate the control input, also referred to as visual servoing. Thus, the cameras and data processing capacity onboard the CubeSats will be used for both image acquisition and attitude determination, eliminating the need for additional precise attitude sensors like star trackers. To perform visual servoing, highly distinctive features are identified and tracked in the images. The control input for reaction wheels is calculated from the movement of the features between consecutive images. To ensure that the images captured by the different satellites overlap sufficiently for photogrammetric processing, the satellites track the same target area based on feature data exchange directly between the satellites. Simulations of realistic scenarios based on the TOM project show the applicability of the presented attitude control approach. In a first step, a software-based Earth observation simulator generates the acquired images, demonstrating feasibility to compute and track features in satellite images to compute the AOCS (Attitude and Orbit Control System) input. In the second step, hardware-in-the-loop (HiL) simulations allow to realistically characterize the performance of this approach. This HiL environment utilizes two high-precision/high-dynamics turntables as 3-axis attitude simulators, where the satellites with their cameras are mounted, while the observation target is mounted on a mobile robot to simulate the relative orbit motion.

Ganoderma lucidum mitigates gamma radiation-induced oxidative stress in Swiss albino mice

ObjectiveRadiotherapy is well established in cancer therapeutics. Though radiation targets tumor cells, they damage normal tissues by bystander effect. The present study aimed to evaluate the radioprotective efficacy of Ganoderma lucidum (GL) mycelium powder on gamma radiated swiss albino mice. Materials and methodQualitative phytochemical tests and in-vitro antioxidant activity of GL were carried out using standard protocols. Institutional animal ethical committee clearance was obtained. The pre and post-treated mice were irradiated using Gamma chamber 2000 (CARRT), Mangalore University. Biochemical estimations (TAC, SOD, NO, GPx, MDA, reduced glutathione), hematological markers (RBC, WBC, Hb, Platelet), lipid profile, inflammatory markers (Il-2, TNF-alpha, IF-gamma) and genotoxic markers (micronucleus and comet assay) were performed using standard protocols and commercially available kits. ConclusionThe pre and post-treatment groups showed statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) compared to radiation control in hematological parameters, lipid profile, micronucleus, and comet formation. In pre-treatment and post-treatment groups, Ganoderma lucidium mycelium extracts mitigated radiation-induced hematological, oxidative stress, hyperlipidemia, and genotoxic changes.

Flexible modulations on selectivity of syngas formation via CO2 reduction on atomic catalysts

Electrocatalysts with multi-active sites are significant to achieve the flexible selectivity modulation of syngas components to couple with different chemical productions. Compared to the complicated composite electrocatalyst to realize multi-active sites, Graphdiyne (GDY) based single atomic catalysts (SACs) have offered a simple approach through intrinsic electroactivity of the GDY and the variation of atomically dispersed metal. In this work, we have proposed a systematic investigation of syngas formation on the GDY-SACs. It is found that f and p orbitals of lanthanide and GDY are able to facilitate the adsorption of reactants CO2 and H2O, respectively, which flexibly control the CO: H2 ratios in syngas formation. Machine learning results indicate that solely relying on the adsorption energies leads to deviated selectivity. This indicates that a comprehensive understanding of thermodynamic preference and electronic structures is needed to achieve the highly accurate prediction of selectivity. This work has supplied an innovative understanding of the selectivity control in syngas formation, which benefits the future rational design of atomic catalysts for efficient CO2 reduction.

Peran Pengasuhan Kontrol Psikologis dan Otonomi Emosional dalam Pembentukan Identitas Remaja

The formation of adolescent identity is influenced by various factors, one of which is the role of parenting and adolescent emotional autonomy. This study aims to analyze the parental psychological control and emotional autonomy in adolescent identity formation. This study used quantitative research methods with a cross-sectional approach. The participants of this study were 480 adolescents in Surabaya aged 12-21 who were obtained by the quota sampling method. The Indonesian versions of the Utrecht-Management of Identity Commitments Scale, Psychological Control Scale-Youth Self-Report, and Emotional Autonomy Scale were used to measure identity formation, parental psychological control, and emotional autonomy. Data analysis was carried out using multiple regression and hierarchical regression. The results indicate that the mother’s psychological control predicted deep exploration, the father’s psychological control predicted commitment, whereas emotional autonomy predicted low commitment. In addition, emotional autonomy was not a moderator between parental psychological control and identity formation. These findings indicate that parental psychological control and emotional autonomy have different roles in identity formation according to the context in Indonesia.

Status and Prospect of Drilling Fluid Loss and Lost Circulation Control Technology in Fractured Formation.

Lost circulation in fractured formation is the first major technical problem that restricts improvements in the quality and efficiency of oil and gas drilling engineering. Improving the success rate of one-time lost circulation control is an urgent demand to ensure “safe, efficient and economic” drilling in oilfields all over the world. In view of the current situation, where drilling fluid loss occurs and the plugging mechanism of fractured formation is not perfect, this paper systematically summarizes the drilling fluid loss mechanism and model of fractured formation. The mechanism and the main influencing factors to improve the formation’s pressure-bearing capacity, based on stress cage theory, fracture closure stress theory, fracture extension stress theory and chemical strengthening wellbore theory, are analyzed in detail. The properties and interaction mechanism of various types of lost circulation materials, such as bridging, high water loss, curable, liquid absorption and expansion and flexible gel, are introduced. The characteristics and distribution of drilling fluid loss in fractured formation are also clarified. Furthermore, it is proposed that lost circulation control technology for fractured formation should focus on the development of big data and intelligence, and adaptive and efficient intelligent lost circulation material should be continuously developed, which lays a theoretical foundation for improving the success rate of lost circulation control in fractured formation.

LibQUAL+® based importance-performance matrix analysis for assessing library service quality: A case study

The main purpose of this study was to measure the strengths and weaknesses of library services using Importance- Performance Matrix Analysis (IPMA). It also intends to identify the critical areas of the library within the three dimensions of LibQUAL+® based on student feedback. Data were collected from students at a private engineering institute in India, using a structured questionnaire to achieve these objectives. Respondents rated the importance and performance of library services on the three dimensions of LibQUAL+®: affect of service (AOS), information control (IC), and library as a place (LP) on a 7-point Likert scale. Analysis was carried out using IPMA to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the library services. The findings suggest that LP was the most essential and well-performing dimension in the library context. IC is the most important, but poorly performing dimension. Therefore, strategies are recommended to ensure the effectiveness of the service. The findings of this study would help library administrators, and policymakers formulate appropriate fund allocation/reallocation based on user requirements. The integration of IPMA and LibQUAL+® in measuring library service quality is a significant contribution of this study to LibQUAL+® literature.

Gender Differences and the Five Facets of Conspiracy Theory

Although research examining conspiracy theory beliefs has been examined, there is conflicting literature on the relationship between gender and conspiracy thinking. Before this study, little research has been conducted on the differences between males and females in each of the five facets of conspiracy theory. This study was designed to investigate differences in gender as they pertain to government malfeasance (GM), malevolent global conspiracies (MG), extraterrestrial cover-up (ET), personal well-being (PW), and control of information (CI). It was hypothesized that there are statistically significant differences between females and males when it comes to conspiracy theory beliefs for each of the five facets. Archival data from 2016 containing responses to the Generic Conspiracist Beliefs Scale was analyzed. Results supported the main hypothesis of this investigation that significant differences do, in fact, exist between females and males in all five facets of conspiracy theory: government malfeasance, malevolent global conspiracies, extraterrestrial cover-up, personal well-being, and control of information. In addition, this study revealed that females score higher than males in all facets. In general, a computed total conspiracy belief score demonstrated that females (M = 45.10, SD = 15.07) were significantly higher than males (M = 42.13, SD = 15.90). Nevertheless, some recent research has reported that women were significantly less likely than men to engage in &amp;lsquo;conspiratorial thinking&amp;rsquo; and endorse a conspiracy about the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020. These findings may be suggesting a change in direction for gender differences and a need for further research.&amp;nbsp;&#x0D; &amp;nbsp;

Investigation on control in oxide scale formation and prevention of peeling off in ultra-supercritical unit

It is a common problem that oxide scale of boiler tube peels off in supercritic al unit. In recent years, many boiler tube burst accidents have been caused by oxide sc ale peeling off and blocking. Therefore, the analysis and research of oxide scale is of g reat significance. In order to control the occurrence of such accidents and reduce the ec onomic losses of thermal power plants, this paper mainly analyzes the factors influenci ng the oxide scale growth rate, peeling off condition and puts forward corresponding p revention and treatment measures.

Template-Mediated Control over Polymorphism in the Vapor-Assisted Formation of Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework Powders and Films.

The landscape of possible polymorphs for some metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) can pose a challenge for controlling the outcome of their syntheses. Demonstrated here is the use of a template to control in the vapor-assisted formation of zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF) powders and thin films. Introducing a small amount of either ethanol or dimethylformamide vapor during the reaction between ZnO and 4,5-dichloroimidazole vapor results in the formation of the porous ZIF-71 phase, whereas other conditions lead to the formation of the dense ZIF-72 phase or amorphous materials. Time-resolved in situ small-angle X-ray scattering reveals that the porous phase is metastable and can be transformed into its dense polymorph. This transformation is avoided through the introduction of template vapor. The porosity of the resulting ZIF powders and films was studied by N2 and Kr physisorption, as well as positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy. The templating principle was demonstrated for other members of the ZIF family as well, including the ZIF-7 series, ZIF-8_Cl, and ZIF-8_Br.