Problem-solving Tool Research Articles

Solving Problems Efficiently in R&D Projects: An Empirical Study of the Application of Six Sigma Tools in an Industrial Research Center

Given the high uncertainty in R&D work, a key concern of R&D managers is to understand how to fail faster by managing time and cost efficiently among their R&D projects. This study investigates how using a variety of Six Sigma tools can differentially affect R&D project time and cost performance. Our data are collected from 35 R&D projects in an industrial R&D center, and a total of 30 different Six Sigma tools were found to be used in varying frequencies. We analyze this problem in two phases. First, by analyzing the frequencies of tool use in the 35 projects through factor analysis, we find the application of Six Sigma tools can be guided by two distinct patterns of tool use: design-oriented tools (DT) and non-design-oriented tools (non-DT). DT include quality function deployment and failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA) for defining and understanding of the focal problems, while non-DT include Pareto chart and design of experiment for generating and testing solutions for the defined problems. Second, based on the two categories of tool use, we further analyze the effects of the two patterns of tool use on project duration and project cost. Results show that using a variety of DT is associated with faster project completion and non-DT lower project cost. In addition, the use of Six Sigma tools (both DT and non-DT) is associated with shorter durations and higher costs for complex projects but lower costs and longer durations for less complex projects. That is, different modes of trade-ff between time and cost performance can occur when project complexity is considered as a moderating factor. Overall, our findings demonstrate new insights into how using a variety of problem-solving tools affects R&D project cost and duration simultaneously.

O-RADS MRI: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Diagnostic Performance and Category-wise Malignancy Rates.

Background US-indeterminate adnexal lesions remain an important indication for gynecologic surgery. MRI can serve as a problem-solving tool through the use of the Ovarian-Adnexal Imaging Reporting and Data System (O-RADS) MRI lexicon, which is based on the ADNEX MR scoring system. Purpose To perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of the diagnostic performance of pelvic MRI interpreted using the ADNEX or O-RADS MRI stratification systems to characterize US-indeterminate adnexal lesions and of the category-wise malignancy rates. Materials and Methods A systematic literature search from May 2013 (publication of the ADNEX MR score) to September 2022 was performed. Studies reporting the use of pelvic MRI interpreted with the ADNEX or O-RADS MRI systems to characterize US-indeterminate adnexal lesions, with pathologic examination and/or follow-up as the reference standard, were included. Summary estimates of diagnostic performance were obtained with the bivariate random-effects model, while category-wise summary malignancy rates of O-RADS MRI 2, 3, 4, and 5 lesions were obtained with a random-effects model. Effects of covariates on heterogeneity and diagnostic performance were investigated through meta-regression. Results Thirteen study parts from 12 studies (3731 women, 4520 adnexal lesions) met the inclusion criteria. Diagnostic performance meta-analysis for 4012 lesions found a 92% summary sensitivity (95% CI: 88, 95) and a 91% summary specificity (95% CI: 89, 93). The meta-analysis of malignancy rates for 3641 lesions showed summary malignancy rates of 0.1% (95% CI: 0, 1) among O-RADS MRI 2 lesions, 6% (95% CI: 3, 9) among O-RADS MRI 3 lesions, 60% (95% CI: 52, 67) among O-RADS MRI 4 lesions, and 96% (95% CI: 92, 99) among O-RADS MRI 5 lesions. Conclusion Pelvic MRI interpreted with the Ovarian-Adnexal Reporting and Data System (O-RADS) MRI lexicon had high diagnostic performance for the characterization of US-indeterminate adnexal lesions. Summary estimates of malignancy rates in the O-RADS MRI 4 and O-RADS MRI 5 categories were higher than predicted ones. © RSNA, 2022 Supplemental material is available for this article. See also the editorial by Lee and Kang in this issue.

O-RADS MRI After Initial Ultrasound for Adnexal Lesions: AJR Expert Panel Narrative Review.

The Ovarian-Adnexal Reporting and Data System (O-RADS) ultrasound (US) and MRI risk stratification systems were developed by an international group of experts in adnexal imaging to aid radiologists in assessing adnexal lesions. The goal of imaging is to appropriately triage patients with adnexal lesions. US is the first-line imaging modality for assessment, whereas MRI can be used as a problem-solving tool. Both US and MRI can accurately characterize benign lesions such as simple cysts, endometriomas, hemorrhagic cysts, and dermoid cysts, avoiding unnecessary or inappropriate surgery. In patients with a lesion that does not meet criteria for one of these benign diagnoses, MRI can further characterize the lesion with an improved specificity for cancer and the ability to provide a probable histologic subtype in the presence of certain MRI features. This allows personalized treatment, including avoiding overly extensive surgery or allowing fertility-sparing procedures for suspected benign, borderline, or low-grade tumors. When MRI findings indicate a risk of an invasive cancer, patients can be expeditiously referred to a gynecologic oncologic surgeon. This narrative review provides expert opinion on the utility of multiparametric MRI when using the O-RADS US and MRI management systems.

Increasing CEUS utilization in the USA: a call to action for the adult and pediatric body imaging community.

Despite its well-established benefits and a powerful body of scientific literature supporting the efficacy of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), it has faced challenges in being fully adopted as a diagnostic and problem-solving tool within the USA. This effort, written by experts in performance of and interpretation of CEUS, acts as a roadmap, for those interested in expanding CEUS within their facility. CEUS benefits from a Champion who is knowledgeable and passionate about its performance and who is capable of transferring evidence-based enthusiasm to others. They must be willing to do the legwork required for the successful implementation of a CEUS program, including increasing referrals, expanding applications, and encouraging the inclusion of CEUS into current and established guidelines. The ability of CEUS to resolve a wide range of indeterminate results which come from CT and MR scan represents one of the most compelling arguments for the use of CEUS, decreasing down-stream testing, and reducing time to diagnosis. As utilization grows, the benefits of CEUS will become apparent to other healthcare teams. However, the ultimate beneficiary of improved CEUS utilization will be the patients themselves, who will have greater access to a safe, speedy, cost effective, reliable, and radiation-free diagnostic imaging tool.

Rotator Cuff Injury and Repair.

Rotator cuff pathology is a commonly encountered clinical and radiologic entity that can manifest as tendinopathy or tearing. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasonography offer similar sensitivity and specificity for the evaluation of the native rotator cuff, and the chosen modality may vary, depending on local practice and accessibility. MR arthrography is frequently used in the postoperative setting as a problem-solving tool. Key findings to include in the preoperative MRI report include the size and location of the tear, thickness of the tendon involved (partial versus full thickness), and overall tendon quality. The report should also address features associated with poor surgical outcomes, such as fatty atrophy, a decreased acromiohumeral interval, and evidence of rotator cuff arthropathy. Musculoskeletal radiologists should be familiar with the various surgical techniques and expected postoperative imaging appearance of rotator cuff repairs. Imaging also plays a role in identifying recurrent tearing, graft failure, hardware loosening, infection, and other complications.

Ultrasound: A problem-solving tool when paediatric elbow X-rays are equivocal

Category: Paediatric

Computational thinking as a tool in primary and secondary mathematical problem solving: a literature review

Computational thinking as a tool in primary and secondary mathematical problem solving: a literature review

Microbubbles in the belly: optimizing the protocol for contrast-enhanced ultrasound of the pediatric abdomen.

Intravenous contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) can serve as a diagnostic or problem-solving tool in pediatric imaging. CEUS of abdominal solid organs has been reported for a number of indications. The approach to the examination broadly falls into two categories: evaluation of a focal lesion or surveillance of an organ or organs for lesions or perfusion abnormalities. A consistent, technical imaging protocol for both of these clinical scenarios facilitates integration of routine use of CEUS in an imaging department. Here we review the CEUS imaging protocols for abdominal organs in children, including technical and solid-organ-specific considerations.

Paediatric orbital ultrasound: Tips and tricks.

The orbital structures are ideally suited for ultrasound examination due to their superficial location and cystic composition of the eye. However, orbital ultrasound remains an underutilised modality due to preference for other cross-sectional modalities in general practice. In this article, we review the basic principles, clinical uses and technique of orbital ultrasound in peadiatric patients. The clinical utility of orbital ultrasound in peadiatric patients is demonstrated using selected cases. Ultrasound is useful in the diagnosis of various posterior segment pathologies, especially in conditions causing opacification of light-conducting media of the eye. It is also beneficial in diagnosing various orbital pathologies, particularly in differentiating solid from cystic lesions. The added advantages of its use in children include lack of ionising radiation and reduced requirement of sedation or general anesthesia. Ultrasound is the most practical initial investigation in cases where ophthalmoscopy is limited by opacification of ocular media. The addition of color Doppler on ultrasound can give additional information about the vascularity of the lesion. Use of ultrasound can be streamlined into the workup of various orbital and ocular pathologies either as an initial investigation or as a problem-solving tool in cases with a diagnostic dilemma on other modalities.

University Social Mission in the Wartime under Knowledge Society

The article is dedicated to the growing social role of universities under knowledge society and its revision during wartime and post-war revival. This role has not received due attention of Ukrainian scholars and higher education stakeholders; on the contrary, in western academic discourse university third mission (also referred to as social mission) is actively discussed and several studies on university roles during conflict and post-conflict recovery are available. The article aims at conceptualization of university third mission relevant for Ukraine’s higher education of today as the country is striving towards knowledge society, higher education modernization and its alignment with European Higher Education Area, as well as fighting against Russian Federation aggression and planning economic recovery and national revival. Knowledge is a key concept in interpretation and definitions of three university missions: knowledge is generated or produced via research (second mission); it is disseminated and promoted via teaching and learning (first mission); the essence of the third / social mission is to apply knowledge for problem-solving and general societal benefit. Application of knowledge is not limited to technological innovations and know-hows and covers social, humanitarian, cultural, business and entrepreneurship, economic, political and other domains. Knowledge is becoming the major problem-solving tool; and demand for knowledge is growing among different categories of knowledge workers engaged in problem definition, decision-making and implementation in different economic sectors and spheres of life. Problems and challenges incurred by war make them the most serious grievances of today’s Ukraine. Multiple challenges faced by Ukrainian society, economy, territories, industries will require the wisdom of all Ukrainian higher education institutions and knowledge workers and can only be addressed effectively via innovative approaches and mobilization of many partners: local and international, academic and non-academic, private and public, non-profit and commercial. Due to their specific features (multidiscipline expertise, access to international knowledge sharing and good practices exchange, non-profit focus, multiple perspectives and diversity of opinions), universities like no other institutions are well-positioned to establish and run partnerships, project consortia, lead innovation ecosystems, catalyse and contribute to reconstruction and revival processes.

Acute pelvic pain: A pictorial review with magnetic resonance imaging.

Acute uterine emergencies constitute both obstetric and gynecologic conditions. The superior image resolution, superior soft-tissue characterization, and lack of ionizing radiation make magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) preferable over ultrasonography (USG) and computed tomography (CT) in investigating uterine emergencies. Although USG is the first-line imaging modality and is easily accessible, it has limitations. USG is an operator dependent and limited by patient factors such as obesity and muscle atrophy. CT is limited by its risk of teratogenicity in pregnant females, poor tissue differentiation, and radiation effect. The non-specific findings on CT may lead to misinterpretation of the pathology. MRI overcomes all these limitations and is emerging as the most crucial imaging modality in the emergency room (ER). The evolving 3D MR sequences further reduce the acquisition times, expanding its ER role. Although MRI is not the first-line imaging modality, it is a problem-solving tool when the ultrasound and CT are inconclusive. This pictorial review discusses the various MRI techniques used in uterine imaging and the appearances of distinct etiologies of uterine emergencies across different MRI sequences.

An Overview of the Role of Multiparametric MRI in the Investigation of Testicular Tumors.

Simple SummaryAlthough conventional ultrasonography remains the primary imaging modality for the assessment of testicular tumors, multiparametric MRI of the scrotum, which combines morphologic and functional data, serves as a powerful adjunct. Based on the recommendations issued by the Scrotal and Penile Imaging Working Group of the European Society of Urogenital Radiology, scrotal MRI is strongly recommended after equivocal US findings. In cases of testicular masses, the main clinical indications are as follows: lesion characterization when sonographic findings are non-diagnostic, discrimination between germ-cell and non-germ-cell testicular tumors, local staging of testicular tumors in patients who are candidates for testis-sparing surgery, and preoperative histological characterization of testicular germ-cell tumors in selected cases. This article aims to provide an overview of the role of multiparametric MRI in the investigation of testicular tumors.Conventional ultrasonography represents the mainstay of testis imaging. In cases in which ultrasonography is inconclusive, scrotal MRI using a multiparametric protocol may be used as a useful problem-solving tool. MRI of the scrotum is primarily recommended for differentiating between benign and malignant testicular masses when sonographic findings are ambiguous. This technique is also accurate in the preoperative local staging of testicular tumors and, therefore, is recommended in patients scheduled for testis-sparing surgery. In addition, MRI may provide valuable information regarding the histological characterization of testicular germ-cell tumors, in selected cases. Scrotal MRI may also help in the differentiation between testicular germ-cell neoplasms and non-germ-cell neoplasms. Axial T1-weighted imaging, axial and coronal T2-weighted imaging, axial diffusion-weighted imaging, and coronal subtracted dynamic contrast-enhanced imaging are the minimum requirements for scrotal MRI. A variety of MRI techniques—including diffusion tensor imaging, magnetization transfer imaging, proton MR spectroscopy, volumetric apparent diffusion coefficient histogram analysis, and MRI-based radiomics—are being investigated for testicular mass characterization, providing valuable supplementary diagnostic information. In the present review, we aim to discuss clinical indications for scrotal MRI in cases of testicular tumors, along with MRI findings of common testicular malignancies.

The Application of Micro-Scale Analysis Tools in Industrial Problem Solving

The Application of Micro-Scale Analysis Tools in Industrial Problem Solving

Pengendalian Kualitas Kemasan Fleksibel dalam Meminimalisasi Produk Cacat pada Proses Laminasi Ekstrusi

This research is based on the total loss of X company in April 2022 which exceeds the specified standard. The extrusion lamination process is a part that produces many defective products. Therefore, this study is aimed at finding the dominant problem that occurs in the extrusion lamination process and reducing defective products in the extrusion lamination process according to the cause. This study was structured using quantitative methods with a causal research design that states a cause-and-effect relationship. The analysis technique in this study uses Pareto diagrams, FMEA and causal diagram as problem solving tools. The results of the study show that the cause of uneven lamination in the extrusion lamination process at PT X is caused by the lack of human resource capabilities, poor quality control systems, and poorly maintained machines. This research produces suggestions for improvements that can be used by the company to make preventive steps in the next extrusion lamination process.

Decision Support System For Teacher Performance Assessment at the Yayasan Pendidikan Islam Al-Islamiyah with the Analytical Hierarchy Process Method (AHP)

This study focuses on the development of a decision support system (DSS) for teacher performance assessment at the Al-Islamiyah Islamic Education Foundation. In an educational institution, schools have teachers who are assets that must be owned by schools in creating a quality education process. The problem that occurs at this foundation is that there is no proper method and application of the teacher performance appraisal system, and also the large number of teachers, so it is difficult to choose the best teacher. Therefore, appropriate methods and DSS are needed to overcome the existing obstacles. The Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) method is one method that can be used in determining the best teacher performance assessment in determining the selection of the best teacher. The criteria that have been set are based on presence, neatness of dress, discipline, teaching ability, and responsibility. This study aims to determine the right method and build a DSS for assessing teacher performance at the Al-Islamiyah Islamic Education Foundation school in determining the best teacher. This DSS produces an alternative priority order, which can be used as a problem-solving tool in determining teacher performance appraisals and selecting the best teacher.

Senior High School Students' Attitudes Towards Research

The Attitude towards Research Scale, developed by Elena T. Papanastasiou in 2005, was used to investigate the attitudes of 222 senior high school students from Holy Child Catholic School during the 2017–2018 school year who had already completed the Department of Education-mandated Practical Research Subjects (PR1 and PR2) for the K-12 program. The responses were evaluated using IBM-SPSS and descriptive survey and correlational research methodologies, as well as Pearson correlation coefficient and factorial MANOVA. The correlation between and among the five ATR subscales revealed that research positivity increases as research anxiety decreases, or vice versa, implying that SHS students are more likely to have a positive attitude toward research if they are having minimal difficulty doing research and thus have a lower anxiety level. In order to further explore students' interest in and attitudes toward research, it is suggested that teachers who are interested in the educational component of research construct an easier and course-related research program for building students' favorable attitudes about research. For SHS students, research should not be a burden but rather a problem-solving tool as they prepare for more rigorous research work in college. Establishing the importance and relevance of research to SHS students would help them appreciate research learning. Keywords: Research attitude, Research positivity, Anxiety, Senior High School DOI: 10.7176/JEP/13-20-06 Publication date: July 31 st 2022

THE COMPARATIVE STUDY OF USG AND MDCT IN THE EVALUATION OF PELVIC MASSES IN FEMALES

Introduction: Pelvic masses in females of all ages are a routine gynaecological issue for which healthcare is sought, and in a populous country like India, these masses form a significant part of the disease burden. The evaluation of the female pelvis is a radiological necessity and a challenge. The foremost aim for any imaging modality in this scenario is to rule out malignancy in the mass, and further to characterise and define the mass so as to guide appropriate management of the patient. Of the wide range of imaging modalities available, ultrasonography and computed tomography are commonly available and extensively used for the evaluation of the varied female pelvic masses. We studied the ultrasonography and multi detector computed tomography findings and their usefulness in the diagnosis and characterization of various pelvic masses in females. Methodology: It was a prospective observational study, ranging over the duration of one and a half years,of 100 female patients fulfilling inclusion criteria, who underwent ultrasonography and multidetector computed tomography scanning in the Department of Radiodiagnosis at RNT medical college, Udaipur. Pelvic masses were evaluated for origin, size, margins, composition, vascularity, ascites, lymphadenopathy and other features to characterise as benign or malignant. Final diagnosis was by histopathological correlation. Results: The most common age group belonged to 35-45 years group (22%) followed by 55-65 years group (21%). Mean age for benign masses was 35.84 years and for malignant masses was 51.64 years. Ovarian origin was the commonest followed by uterine origin. Features like solid areas, ill-defined margins, lymphadenopathy and ascites favoured malignancy. Most common pathologies were adenocarcinoma ovary, carcinoma cervix, benign ovarian cysts and uterine fibroids. Conclusion: Ultrasonography is often the first imaging study performed in patients with symptoms related to the pelvis. Results indicated higher diagnostic capability of CT as a problem-solving tool. Overall diagnostic accuracy of CT was higher than USG in characterising both benign and malignant pelvic masses.

Recent advances in imaging techniques of renal masses.

Multiphasic multidetector computed tomography (CT) forms the mainstay for the characterization of renal masses whereas magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) acts as a problem-solving tool in some cases. However, a few of the renal masses remain indeterminate even after evaluation by conventional imaging methods. To overcome the deficiency in current imaging techniques, advanced imaging methods have been devised and are being tested. This review will cover the role of contrast-enhanced ultrasonography, shear wave elastography, dual-energy CT, perfusion CT, MR perfusion, diffusion-weighted MRI, blood oxygen level-dependent MRI, MR spectroscopy, positron emission tomography (PET)/prostate-specific membrane antigen-PET in the characterization of renal masses.

Childhood Cerebral Vasculitis : AMultidisciplinary Approach.

Cerebral vasculitis is increasingly recognized as a common cause of pediatric arterial stroke. It can present with focal neurological deficits, psychiatric manifestations, seizures, and encephalopathy. The etiopathogenesis of childhood cerebral vasculitis (CCV) is multifactorial, making an inclusive classification challenging. In this review, we describe the common and uncommon CCV with a comprehensive discussion of etiopathogenesis, the role of various imaging modalities, and advanced techniques in diagnosing CCV. We also highlight the implications of relevant clinical, laboratory, and genetic findings to reach the final diagnosis. Based on the clinicoradiological findings, a stepwise diagnostic approach is proposed to facilitate CCV diagnosis and rule out potential mimics. Identification of key clinical manifestations, pertinent blood and cerebrospinal fluid results, and evaluation of central nervous system vessels for common and disease-specific findings will be emphasized. We discuss the role of magnetic resonance imaging, MR angiography, and vessel wall imaging as the imaging investigation of choice, and reservation of catheter angiography as a problem-solving tool. We emphasize the utility of brain and leptomeningeal biopsy for diagnosis and exclusion of imitators and masqueraders.

Parsimonious analysis for eco-innovation of products

The integration of the environmental dimension is crucial in industrial activity. Designers should integrate the new environmental constraints to adapt their approaches and methodologies in the framework of eco-innovation of industrial products and consumer goods. This paper proposes a new method integrating ecological aspects into the innovation process. We analyze different tools proposed in the literature to determine the relevant parameters to consider for assuring an efficient methodology. Relevant parameters are related to different phases in the lifecycle of the product and it is proposed to link them to different impacts on the environment. Actions are set up to guide engineers in the early phase of concept generation for eco-innovation. The methodology is essentially based on functional analysis, energy analysis and physical analysis of products and problem solving tools stemming from Triz theory.