Problem-solving Tool Research Articles

Implementation of Knowledge Management Tools in Libraries: A Systematic Literature Review

Background: The lack of references for practical examples of Knowledge Management (KM) tool applications in libraries can be one of the obstacles to the development of KM tools in non-profit institutions. Therefore, conducting studies is essential to enrich and advance scientific knowledge related to library science and Knowledge Management. Purpose: The study aims to describe KM tools commonly used in both profit and non-profit organizations and review their usage in libraries. Method: This study is a systematic literature review following the PRISMA framework. A total of 31 articles were collected and subsequently analyzed based on their relevance to the research topic. Result: The use of KM tools in organizations is becoming increasingly diverse, incorporating both IT and non-IT approaches. Common types of KM tools used in organizations include social media, websites, the internet, networks, face-to-face interactions, mentoring, and reports. The concept of KM tool usage includes: (1) knowledge strategy, for developing competencies needed in the future; (2) knowledge creation, for problem-solving; (3) knowledge retention, for sharing tacit knowledge; and (4) knowledge measurement, for addressing knowledge deficiency issues. KM tools have also been adapted in libraries for managing knowledge sources and representation, storage, knowledge dissemination, and as tools for problem-solving. KM tools in libraries include the Online Public Access Catalog (OPAC), repositories, social media, face-to-face interactions, and the 'Ask the Librarian' feature. Conclusion: The use of KM tools in organizations can be adjusted to meet specific needs and budgets. Libraries, in storing information, have utilized various forms of KM tools, allowing them to effectively and efficiently fulfill their role in managing the knowledge produced by the host institutions.

Exploring the synergy between generative AI and software engineering: Automating code optimization and bug fixing

As applied to software engineering, generative AI is quickly transitioning from a zero-sum industry game changer into the primary automation tool for code optimization, bug identification, and problem-solving. This technology takes advantage of artificial intelligence algorithms within machine learning models to analyze and write code, resulting in improved quality and speed of an application development process. The generative AI replenishes productivity in development work and enhances centralization between development work teams through code handling and intelligent suggestions for essential codes. However, the integration of AI in software engineering poses the following problems and ethical questions: the question of accuracy, bias, and data. This paper will review the existing knowledge on generative AI in software engineering regarding its current use, future evolutions and advancements, issues and limitations, and ethical factors in using this technology. This paper considers these aspects to give a global outlook on how generative AI will transform software development in the future and how responsible AI should be employed.

An update on pancreatic cancer imaging, staging and use of the PACT-UK radiology template pre- and post-neoadjuvant treatment.

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma continues to have a poor prognosis, although recent advances in neoadjuvant treatments have provided some hope. Imaging assessment of suspected tumours can be challenging and requires a specific approach, with pancreas protocol CT being the primary imaging modality for staging with other modalities used as problem-solving tools to facilitate appropriate management. Imaging assessment post neoadjuvant treatment can be particularly difficult due to a current lack of robust radiological criteria to predict response and differentiate treatment induced fibrosis/inflammation from residual tumour. This review aims to provide an update of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma with particular focus on three points: tumour staging pre- and post-neoadjuvant treatment including vascular assessment, structured reporting with introduction of the PACT-UK radiology template (PAncreatic Cancer reporting Template-UK), and the potential future role of artificial intelligence in the diagnosis and staging of pancreatic cancer.

Impact of a Design Thinking Educational Activity on Graduate Students' Knowledge, Confidence, and Perceived Benefits.

Design Thinking is gaining recognition as an innovative and creative approach to problem solving. Though nurse leaders need problem solving tools to address health care challenges, Design Thinking concepts are not commonly taught in nursing education. To introduce graduate level nursing students to Design Thinking, we held an educational activity focused on this content as part of required coursework. The purpose was to describe and compare outcomes of a Design Thinking educational activity on students' perceived knowledge, confidence, and benefits to nursing practice. Graduate level nursing students participated in a 3-hour educational activity. After the session, students completed an anonymous 10-item survey of their perceptions of the educational activity. Students reported increased knowledge and confidence of communication strategies and Design Thinking concepts that would benefit their practice. Nurse educators should include Design Thinking teaching and learning strategies in their programs.

Utility of Sonoelastography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Characterization of Thyroid Nodules.

To evaluate thyroid nodules with sonoelastography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The study included 28 patients with 40 thyroid nodules. Clearance was obtained from the institute's ethical clearance committee. Patients with pure cystic nodules or nodules with eggshell calcification, diffuse thyroid pathology (such as Graves' disease, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, De Quervain thyroiditis, and Riedel's thyroiditis), inaccessible nodules via fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC), or patients with a history of thyroid gland surgery were excluded from the study. Strain elastography was performed on a Phillips iU22 machine, producing qualitative color-coded strain maps (graded using the Rago 5-point system) and semiquantitative strain ratios. MRI was performed on a Phillips ACHIEVA 1.5T magnet with a head and neck coil. Rago scores statistically correlated (χ2 = 18.052, p < 0.001) with malignant nodules, and using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, the area under the ROC curve (AUROC) for the mean strain ratio predicting malignant outcomes was 0.88 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.767-0.992], which was also statistically significant (p < 0.001). A cutoff of mean strain ratio ≥2.48 predicted malignant outcomes with 100% specificity. T2 signal intensity ratio (SIR) and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values were not statistically significant in predicting malignant outcomes. Kinetic curves were statistically significant for Rago scores (χ2 = 11.356, p = 0.045); however, no significant difference was found in predicting malignant outcomes. We concluded that sonoelastography, along with grayscale ultrasound, is a useful noninvasive technique for predicting histological outcomes. However, MRI should largely be reserved as a problem-solving tool rather than a standalone imaging modality. The kinetic curves show some degree of overlap between histologically distinct diseases, and thus large-scale multicenter trials are needed for further standardization.

The Retrosynthesis Mindset: A Problem-Solving Tool

AbstractRetrosynthesis refers to the process of deconstructing a target molecule step by step until simpler and commercially available synthetic precursors are identified to develop a valid synthetic pathway. As a powerful problem-solving tool, it has gradually been expanded to other fields of chemistry. The application of a ‘retrosynthesis mindset’ can be relevant beyond chemistry, such as in education, research management, and science advice. In this Letter, we discuss the concept of the retrosynthesis mindset and its implications within and beyond chemistry in the hope of highlighting a broader potential and encouraging the adoption of such a mindset to enhance problem solving and strategic planning across disciplines.1 Introduction2 Retrosynthesis Education3 Retrosynthesis Within and Beyond the Lab4 Conclusion

Usefulness of Combined Advanced Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced and Diffusion-Weighted MRI Over Ultrasonography in Differentiating Cancer From Benign Lesions in Dense Breasts.

Aim To evaluate the role of dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) and diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) in characterizing suspicious lesions in dense breasts compared to ultrasonography (USG). Materials and methods Eighty-two consecutive female patients with suspicious lesions in dense breast parenchyma showing the American College of Radiology Breast Imaging Reporting And Data System (ACR BI-RADS) c/d composition on mammography underwent USG, where 63 lesions of 63 patients were suspicious. They underwent multiparametric MRI, followed by histopathological evaluation (HPE) of the lesions.Statistical analysis was done to calculate the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of USG and MRI in lesion characterization and the combined accuracy of DCE-MRI with DWI.The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis provided the cut-off for the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) value. Results The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of USG were 91.7%, 63%, and 79.4%, respectively. Kinetic curve analysis on DCE-MRI showed a type I curve only in benign lesions. Malignant lesions predominantly showed a type III curve.The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of DCE-MRI were 95.8%, 78.5%, and 85.7%, respectively.The optimum cut-off ADC value was 1.05x10-3 mm2/s with sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of 83.3 % each.The specificity and accuracy of combined DCE-MRI with DWI were 94.4% and 88.1%, respectively. Conclusion Advanced MRI, including a combination of DCE-MRI kinetics and DWI, would be more effective and accurate for lesion characterization in dense breasts and act as a superior problem-solving tool compared to USG in differentiating carcinoma from benign lesions.

PET/MRI: pictorial review of hepatobiliary and pancreatic applications.

PET and MRI both play valuable roles in the management of hepatobiliary and pancreatic (HBP) malignancies. Simultaneous PET/MRI combines the excellent soft-tissue resolution and anatomic details from MRI with functional information from PET in a single comprehensive examination. MRI is the main imaging modality in evaluating HCC, playing important roles in screening, characterization, local extent, and evaluating tumor response, whereas 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) PET can help evaluate for lymph node involvement and metastatic disease. In cholangiocarcinoma and pancreatic malignancies, both PET and MRI have excellent utility in initial staging as well as assessing treatment response. In all HBP malignancies, FDG-PET/MRI is a unique problem-solving tool in complex cases and diagnostic challenges, especially after locoregional therapy and when differentiating residual or recurrent viable disease from inflammatory and other benign processes. In this manuscript, we review the role of PET/MRI in the diagnosis, staging, assessing treatment response, and characterizing post-treatment processes. With the introduction of multiple new tracers, the value of PET/MRI has not yet been fully realized, and more studies are needed to demonstrate the utility and efficacy of PET/MRI in improving patient care in hepatobiliary and pancreatic oncology.

Imaging findings in suspected penile fracture: alternative diagnoses and surgical correlation.

The primary objective is to compare the imaging and surgical findings in a cohort of patients with suspected penile fracture (PF). Retrospective cohort study of all patients with suspected PF over an 11-year period at a tertiary referral andrology centre. All dedicated presurgical imaging with ultrasound (US) and MRI was analysed and correlated with intraoperative findings; alternative diagnoses were recorded. One hundred and ninety-three patients were included. One hundred and four (54%) had alternative diagnoses to PF including dorsal vein rupture and haematoma. Ninety-nine (51%) underwent surgical exploration of which 89 (46%) had PF. US correctly confirmed the presence and marked the site of fracture in 92% of cases. MRI was primarily used as a problem-solving tool (13 cases) and demonstrated a more extensive injury than US (12 cases). The reported size of tunical defect on imaging was a median of 7 mm (IQR 4-10) significantly smaller than on exploration (median 20 mm, IQR 10-30; P < .0001). US has a high positive predictive value in the confirmation of PF. MRI improves the detection and characterizing the extent of injury. Imaging marking informs surgical incision but defect size is under appreciated on all imaging modalities. Penile imaging has a high positive predictive value to not only confirm the diagnosis of PF but to stage the extent of injury and mark the skin, which impacts the surgical technique. Alternative diagnoses to fracture are common and imaging could prevent unnecessary surgical exploration.

Update on the Role of Imaging in the Diagnosis, Staging, and Prognostication of Gallbladder Cancer

AbstractGallbladder cancer (GBC) is a highly aggressive malignancy with dismal prognosis. GBC is characterized by marked geographic predilection. GBC has distinct morphological types that pose unique challenges in diagnosis and differentiation from benign lesions. There are no specific clinical or serological markers of GBC. Imaging plays a key role not only in diagnosis and staging but also in prognostication. Ultrasound (US) is the initial test of choice that allows risk stratification in wall thickening and polypoidal type of gallbladder lesions. US findings guide further investigations and management. Computed tomography (CT) is the test of choice for staging GBC as it allows comprehensive evaluation of the gallbladder lesion, liver involvement, lymph nodes, peritoneum, and other distant sites for potential metastases. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography allow better delineation of the biliary system involvement. Contrast-enhanced US and advanced MRI techniques including diffusion-weighted imaging and dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI are used as problem-solving tools in cases where distinction from benign lesion is challenging at US and CT. Positron emission tomography is also used in selected cases for accurate staging of the disease. In this review, we provide an up-to-date insight into the role of imaging in diagnosis, staging, and prognostication of GBC.

Use of Language By generative AI Tools in Mathematical Problem Solving: The Case of ChatGPT

Texts generated by artificial intelligence agents have been suggested as tools supporting students’ learning. The present research analyses the language of texts generated by ChatGPT when solving mathematical problems related to the quadratic equation. We use the functional grammar theoretical framework that includes three meta-functions: the ideational meta-function, the interpersonal meta-function and the textual meta-function. The results indicated that in at least one of six problem-solving tasks ChatGPT provided a mathematically incorrect answer. The processes appearing in ChatGPT texts, aiming at developing students’ understanding of mathematical concepts, included verbal, mental, existential, relational and behavioural processes but no material processes. Specifically, ChatGPT performed a mathematically incorrect existential process. ChatGPT generally used the first plural pronoun ‘we’ when describing the processes of solving mathematical problems, while it generally used the first-person singular pronoun when taking responsibility for a specific mistake or when expressing happiness for the actions of the user. Moreover, generally the text of the solution did not include direct imperatives but used ‘let us do’. The advancement of the ChatGPT textual solution was made usually through steps like ‘first’, ‘second’, etc. The research results indicated that the way ChatGPT responded to the mathematical problems would be useful in supporting learners’ understanding of ways to solve quadratic equations, but only if the teacher critically accompanies the student in the problem-solving process. Self-study with ChatGPT could lead to or confirm students’ mathematical misconceptions.

Imaging techniques for diagnosing and managing Peyronie disease.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects up to 50% of men to some degree and has a variety of physiologic and psychologic causes, but many patients do not seek specialist treatment. One cause of ED is Peyronie disease (PD) defined by the presence of fibrotic plaques in the tunica albuginea which cause painful penile contractures. While diagnosing PD relies on clinical history and a focused history and physical exam, adding imaging studies can identify nonpalpable plaques and any underlying vasculogenic ED to tailor the extent of surgical treatment and determine when implantable penile prostheses are beneficial. After briefly reviewing penile anatomy, erectile function, and the clinical features of PD, this paper describes the imaging findings of vasculogenic ED on Doppler ultrasound (US), followed by the imaging appearance of PD on US, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to increase recognition of this disease and show how imaging can be used as a problem-solving tool for treatment planning and evaluating post-surgical complications, especially malfunctioning implanted devices. By increasing the understanding of how imaging can be used for patients with PD with or without vasculogenic ED before and after treatment, radiologists and urologists can collaborate on patient management.

Teaching abductive reasoning for use as a problem-solving tool in organic chemistry and beyond

The second-year undergraduate Organic Chemistry course sequence is often cited as one of the most, if not the most, challenging for students in the US. Thus, a persistent question remains: What is it about Organic Chemistry that makes the course so difficult for students? Herein, we put forward the hypothesis that a new mode of thinking and problem solving is expected of the students; these skills have not yet been developed in their prior scientific coursework and are often not deliberately taught in Organic Chemistry. This form of reasoning and problem solving, known as abductive reasoning, is highlighted for its connection to medical diagnosis and scientific thinking. We provide examples to showcase how instructors could explicitly foreground the reasoning process in their classroom. Ultimately, we argue that teaching how to reason using abduction may benefit students in both the short term (in the course) and the long term (in their careers as scientists and medical practitioners).

The Application of Atomic Spectroscopy Techniques in the Recovery of Critical Raw Materials from Industrial Waste Streams, Part II

This month’s column is Part 2 of a contribution from my daughter Glenna, who recently completed her PhD studies in Environmental Science from the University of Copenhagen in Denmark. Her article explores the current landscape of global critical raw materials (CRM) trends in research and the applications of atomic spectroscopy (AS), including inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), inductively coupled plasma–optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES), and X-ray analytical techniques in their identification of diverse industrial and environmental media, which have been essential in method validation and quantification of CRMs in complex matrices presenting high risks of interference. Some important examples to be presented include rare earth elements (REEs) in water leaching purification (WLP) residues that co-occur with radioactive materials; REEs and other metals in acid mine drainage (AMD) environments; REEs in coal combustion (fly ash) residues; arsenic (As) from groundwater treatment sediment; and platinum-group elements (PGEs) from sewage sludge. The article also classifies the different techniques in use at each stage of the CRM recovery train, investigates present challenges to each analytical method, and discusses the problem-solving tools used.

Ship Maintenance Management Practices: Insights from Internships in Shipping Engineering

This research investigates ship maintenance management practices among senior students in shipping engineering during their internships at a vocational school in Jakarta. The study explores the challenges faced, strategies employed, and lessons learned in managing maintenance tasks onboard ships. Seven participants were interviewed, highlighting technical malfunctions, resource limitations, time constraints, environmental factors, and communication barriers as primary challenges. Participants utilized preventive maintenance, cross-training, task prioritization, collaborative problem-solving, and digital tools to enhance operational efficiency. Lessons underscored the importance of preparation, teamwork, adaptability, continuous learning, and communication skills in navigating maritime maintenance complexities. The findings emphasize the role of proactive maintenance strategies and technological integration in optimizing sustainability and operational reliability within the maritime industry. Integrating practical training into educational curricula and embracing digital innovations are recommended for preparing future professionals. Future research could explore larger sample sizes and quantitative methodologies to validate findings and quantify the impact of maintenance practices. This study contributes to enhancing vocational education in maritime sciences and informs industry practices for advancing ship maintenance management globally.

Multiple Sclerosis Imaging at 7T: Does 7T MRI Teach Us Something New in MS Imaging?

Compared with lower field strengths, 7T MRI offers unique benefits because of increased SNR and contrast, improved spectral resolution, and increased susceptibility-related dephasing. These benefits of 7T imaging could be of particular relevance for MS imaging. MS plaques have unique imaging features but can be challenging to differentiate from other white matter lesions. Examples of MS lesions at 7T are shown to highlight characteristics of MS imaging in a clinical context and the advantages of ultra-high field imaging, including as a problem-solving tool. Furthermore, examples will show how 7T imaging inform us about pathogenesis and pathophysiology underlying demyelinating plaques and MS and will highlight the potential of 7T MRI as imaging biomarker in MS.Learning Objective: To recognize imaging characteristics and characteristic diagnostic findings of MS within a clinical context, by understanding and using the physics principles and advantages of ultra-high-field 7T imaging.

Refinement of Jensen Mercer and Hermite–Hadamard-Mercer type inequalities for generalized convex functions on co-ordinates with their computational analysis

In the current study, the Jensen-Mercer inequality is extended to co-ordinated h-convex functions. Additionally, a novel inequality is employed to derive Hermite–Hadamard-Mercer type inequalities for h-convex functions defined on the co-ordinates of a rectangle in the plane. These developments not only reinforce the core tenets of convex analysis but also expand the applicability of Hermite-Hadamard-Mercer type inequalities to generalized convex functions on co-ordinates. This provides valuable tools for data analysis and optimization problem-solving. The practical utility and efficacy of this generalized inequality in real-world scenarios involving co-ordinates are demonstrated through a computational study. Mathematics Subject Classification: 26D10, 26D15, 26A51, 34A08.

Teaching Numerical Problem-Solving Methods to Undergraduate Engineering Students Using Specially Designed Finite Element Codes

Computer-Aided Engineering is an essential solution in many engineering problems in today’s industry. Modules looking into this area in the engineering courses aim to further enhance both the theoretical and practical appreciation of the numerical problem-solving methods. In such modules, students are expected to appreciate how mathematics, numerical analysis and computational technology are combined to model and simulate the behaviour of physical systems. However, when it comes to teaching, there is a significant difference between how the background theory looks and what students experience as they work with a commercial software package as they cannot see what is going on in the background of software packages and how the outputs have been achieved. In this work, the authors have proposed a method to help students comprehend how the theory is related to software packages. This is done by providing students with specially designed Finite Element codes asking them to investigate, and tailor the codes for some basic but real-life applications. The method starts with 2D problems for elementary Finite Elements, and through a few steps helps students extend the codes to 3D cases to enable them to solve real-life applications by the FE codes they have tailored themselves. This approach enables engineering students make meaningful links between the background math and the target numerical problem-solving methods. According to student surveys taken over three academic years, 85% of students believe “User FE-codes helped understand how theory translates to problem-solving tools and FE software”. There was also significant enhancement in student performance on the associated assessments.

Eco-Friendly information literacy in green and sustainable business programs

Background of the study: Eco-friendly information literacy plays an important role in helping to change public behavior towards a more environmentally friendly lifestyle. Purpose: The aim of this research is to examine various aspects of information literacy within the green and sustainable business programs conducted by The Local Enablers (TLE) in an eco-friendly context. Method: The research method employed is qualitative descriptive study. The research subject is based on the involvement of specific parties with the research object to be studied in-depth. The subjects involved in this study consist of several individuals who play roles in the TLE project team during the planning and implementation of green and sustainable business programs. Findings: This research outlines the information literacy process in the green and sustainable business program at TLE according to the Big6 Model theory, from problem formulation to information evaluation. The Big6 Model assists TLE as a problem-solving framework for the information needs of the green and sustainable business program. Each member of the TLE team is able to explain the process of searching for and using information during program development. Conclusion: Eco-friendly information literacy is well-established within TLE, where they actively seek out and implement new environmental information within the TLE ecosystem. In designing and implementing green and sustainable business programs, TLE recognizes the urgency of environmental issues and understands that the process of information literacy is an effective problem-solving tool.

Multimodality imaging of acute gynecological emergencies-a pictorial essay.

Gynecological emergencies can often present with a myriad of non-specific signs and symptoms, posing a diagnostic challenge to the clinician. They can be grossly divided into uterine or adnexal pathologies. Uterine pathologies can be secondary to intracavitary accumulation of blood [like in patients with transverse vaginal septum, Robert's uterus, accessory and cavitated uterine mass, unicornuate uterus with contralateral non-communicating functional horn], bleeding per vaginum [like in patients with retained products of conception, enhanced myometrial vascularity], pyometra [secondary to pelvic inflammatory disease, cervical obstruction secondary to benign and malignant causes] or complications of fibroids [like red degeneration, torsion of subserosal fibroid]. The adnexal pathologies can range from ectopic pregnancy in a urine pregnancy test (UPT) positive patient to haemorrhagic ovarian cyst, ovarian torsion, ruptured dermoid cyst and tubo-ovarian abscess in a UPT negative patient. Multimodality imaging including ultrasound (USG), computed tomography (CT) scan and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can narrow down the differentials and help in formulating an accurate diagnosis. The objective of this article is to familiarize the readers with multimodality imaging findings in common as well as uncommon acute gynecological emergencies and provide an algorithmic imaging approach for acute gynecological emergencies. USG is typically used as the first line diagnostic modality in diagnosis of acute gynecological emergencies. CT scan & MRI are helpful as a problem-solving tool in acute gynecological emergencies when USG findings are indeterminate.