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Based on an orthogonal experimental design, this study introduces rubber powder particle size alongside rubber powder content, aggregate gradation, and cement content as factors. A total of 16 mix proportions were formulated. For each mixture, compaction tests and unconfined compressive strength (UCS) tests were conducted. Using Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) software, a multifactor variance analysis was performed to determine the influence levels of the four factors on maximum dry density and compressive strength. The optimal mix proportion was selected based on compressive strength. The results indicate that aggregate gradation and rubber powder content significantly affect the maximum dry density of the mixture, with aggregate gradation having the greatest impact. Rubber powder content has the most substantial effect on compressive strength, while rubber particle size has the least influence. The optimal formulation is 7% cement content, 30-mesh rubber powder, 0.5% rubber powder content, and a skeletal dense gradation close to the median. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Methods Results Conclusion To evaluate the role of clinical exchange programs in postgraduate obgyn training using the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO)–World Association of Trainees in Obstetrics and Gynecology (WATOG) One World Exchange (OWE), a clinical exchange program held in France in October 2023, as a case‐study.This was a cross‐sectional study. A 31‐item structured questionnaire designed with Google Forms was electronically distributed to the 51 obgyn postgraduate trainees (OWE fellows) who participated in the OWE, to collect information about the exchange. Collected data was analyzed using IBM Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) Statistics for Windows.The survey response rate was 68.6%. The mean age of the respondents was 33.0 ± 4.0 years. Majority of the them were females (26, 74.3%), married (19, 54.3%), at least in their third year of training (30, 85.7%) and from Africa (11, 31.4%). During the period of the exchange program, fellows observed various obstetric and gynecologic procedures, including open and minimal access procedures, with more than one‐fifth (8, 22.9%) of them reporting that they were allowed to assist in some of these procedures. The fellows noted salient differences in practice between their exchange hospitals and their home countries. An overwhelming majority (30, 85.7%) of the fellows believed the OWE was beneficial and would positively impact their clinical practices back in their home countries.Clinical exchange programs like the OWE provide valuable benefits in improving the clinical knowledge and skills of postgraduate obgyn trainees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Healthcare service utilization among university students is critical for ensuring their health and academic success. This study was performed to determine the level of utilization as well as the perception and factors influencing the utilization of healthcare services by students at Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD). This research involved a cross-sectional survey in which a semi-structured online questionnaire was used to collect data and a multistage sampling technique was used to sample the students. The students' perceptions were converted to scores by summing their responses across the questions. The total score for each student was compared against the midpoint of the possible score range. Perceptions with a total score greater than or equal to 12.5 were categorized as positive, while those with a total score less than 12.5 were categorized as negative. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify predictors of healthcare service utilization. Utilization of healthcare services, the key outcome variable, was defined as the frequency with which students accessed available health services. All analyses were carried out using Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) software. A total of 429 students participated in this study, majority of whom were females (304, 70.9%), with a mean age of 18.9 ± 1.7 years. Three hundred and seventy-five students (87.4%) reported utilizing healthcare services at the university of which 186 (43.4%) reported to occasionally utilize healthcare services in the university. A total of 33.1% perceived that the attitude of staff was poor, while 12.6% strongly disagreed that the healthcare staff were incompetent. Overall, the majority (287, 66.9%) of the students had a negative perception of the utilization of healthcare services. Approximately 16% agreed that the high cost of drugs affects their utilization, while 35.9% agreed that the services provided were too expensive. Predictors of healthcare service utilization included being over 20 years old (AOR = 3.6, 95% CI: 1.1–11.6), study level, with fourth-year students having the highest likelihood of utilization (AOR = 13.8, 95% CI: 5.1–37.4), and positive perception of healthcare staff attitude (AOR = 2.5, 95% CI: 1.1–5.9). Students from lower-income families (< 200,000 Naira) were significantly more likely to utilize healthcare services (AOR = 39.2, 95% CI: 12.6–121.5). The study revealed that, despite widespread usage of healthcare services, students have a predominantly negative perception of these services. Key factors influencing healthcare utilization include age, study level, attitude of staff and family income. Addressing these barriers through targeted interventions can improve health outcomes and promote equitable access to quality healthcare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim and Objective: To assess the awareness of clear aligner disposal among orthodontists and general dentists. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional electronic survey (e-survey) was developed based on the use of Google Forms. The survey link was randomly disseminated across social media platforms consisting of orthodontists and general dentists. The responses were subsequently tabulated and analyzed using statistical analysis with the help of Statistical Product and Services Solution software version 23.0. The survey comprised questions consisting of demographics, frequency of usage of clear aligners, and awareness on disposal of clear aligners. Results: The survey gathered responses from 760 participants, including 374 orthodontists and 384 general dentists from the 1,000 dentists and orthodontists who were surveyed, revealing trends in clear aligner usage, disposal practices, and awareness. Orthodontists showed higher frequency and safer disposal practices. A knowledge gap exists among dental practitioners regarding biodegradation characteristics and disposal regulations. Both groups express a shared interest in environmentally responsible practices, emphasizing the necessity for education and comprehensive guidelines from aligner companies to mitigate environmental impact. Conclusion: Clear aligners are popular in orthodontic treatment which contributes to environmental concerns due to improper disposal. The study explored clear aligner disposal practices among general dentists and orthodontists. The study underscores the need for increased awareness among orthodontists and general dentists, emphasizing proper clear aligner disposal methods and the importance of comprehensive instructions from aligner companies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geographic data quality is a complex issue requiring continuous operational improvements. Considering this to be one of the most topical research and technical issues in official statistics and environmental monitoring, this study re-connects the operational dimension of 'geographic data quality' with the broader issue of monitoring the quality of official statistics. By estimating the accuracy of public (spatially explicit) data, this study illustrates an operational framework with an exploratory exercise in estimating the geographic data quality characteristic of a specific information source within the official statistical system (i.e., building registry) in a given European country, namely, Italy. The results of this exercise provide a paradigmatic example of profound innovation in the activities of statistical services in Europe and specifically the Italian National Statistical Institute (Istat), transitioning from independent (and poorly connected) field surveys to an integrated system of registries. Since several studies are based on spatially explicit survey units, it is essential to estimate the quality of geographical data, especially those derived from information sources where space is topical information, such as (local, regional, or national) building registers. Thanks to the results of an empirical exercise applied to Italian building registers, the present article will discuss the issue of data accuracy, considered the main issue related to monitoring geographic data quality, from an official statistics' perspective. Statistical indicators will be proposed for the assessment of systematic and random errors of spatially explicit measures, possibly enabling a quali-quantitative improvement in the semantic content of building registers that address the inherent requirements of official statistics. Such indicators have some positive implications for the entire system of official statistics in Italy and, for generalization, within the European Statistical System. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to provide an empirical explanation of the effect of profitability, company size and audit committee on earnings quality. This study uses quantitative descriptive research with secondary data in the form of annual financial reports of food and beverage companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange for the period 2018-2022. The sample selection used purposive sampling, and the number of samples used was 115 samples, and the analysis tool used was Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) 26. The analysis techniques used are descriptive analysis and multiple linear regression analysis. The results of the research indicate that profitability has no effect on earnings quality; 2) company size has no effect on earnings quality; 3) audit committee has a positive and significant effect on earnings quality; and 4) profitability, company size and audit committee simultaneously affect earnings quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we primarily assess the relationship between social safeguards and the living standards of local communities in different ecological zones of Ghana, relying on data from the seventh round of the Ghana Living Standard Survey (GLSS 7) and publicly available policy documents from the Ghana Statistical Service and the Forestry Commission of Ghana, respectively. This research aims to assist policymakers and stakeholders to make informed and appropriate decisions when developing social safeguards for emission reduction projects. The GLSS 7 covers 14,009 households, comprising 59,864 individuals in 892 enumeration areas or communities across the 10 regions of Ghana, now divided into 16. The data were collected using a stratified random sampling technique. Principal component analysis was employed to develop a living condition index, after which we generated a second construct based on the number of factors affecting living conditions. The results showed that access to sharecropping, literacy, extension services, financial institutions, a mobile phone network, and markets have significant positive relationships with the living conditions of local communities in Ghana. In addition, 78% of the social safeguards described in Ghana's REDD+ strategy, Forest and Wildlife Policy, Benefits Sharing Mechanism, and Forest Plantation Development Strategy are aligned with the determinants of local communities' living conditions. The findings suggest a need to enforce the Benefit Sharing Mechanism, better forest governance, and tenancy reforms in order to prevent the overexploitation of landowners and avoid elite capture. Furthermore, farmers must be linked to financial institutions in order to obtain credits. Additionally, we must seek to provide local communities with better access to markets and mobile phone networks in a way that allows them to carry out their livelihood activities effectively and efficiently. These measures help to reduce the risk of REDD+ actions and ensure sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The timely introduction of complementary foods during infancy is necessary for nutritional reasons, and to enable the transition from milk feeding to family foods. In the past years, despite efforts that have been put to increase the utilization of timely initiation of complementary feeding practice in Ethiopia, improvements are not satisfactory. Objective: To compare the prevalence of timely initiation of complementary feeding and its associated factors among mothers who have Children 6–24 months in Debre Tabor town and rural Farta district, North-west Ethiopia, 2021. Methods: A community-based comparative cross-sectional study was employed from December 1/2020 to 30/ 2020 among 1100 mothers. Data were collected using a structured questioner and analyzed using Statistical Product and Service Solutions. Logistic regression analysis with a 95% confidence interval carried out to determine the association between explanatory and the outcome variables. A P-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The prevalence of timely initiation of complementary feeding among urban and rural mothers was 69.8% with (95% CI: 66%, 74%) and 51.9% with (95% CI: 48- 56%) respectively. Urban residence [AOR = 1.39, 95% CI: (1.02–1.94)], had antenatal care visits [AOR = 0.24 (95%CI: (0.13, 0.44)], had post natal care checkups [AOR = 0.44, 95%CI: (0. 27- 0.72)] and being a governmental employee [AOR = 2.82; 95% CI: (1.91–6.1)] were factors associated with timely initiation of complementary feeding among urban mothers. Whereas in rural settings: institutional delivery [(AOR = 2.21, CI: 1.35–3.65)], post natal care checkups [(AOR = 0.53, CI: (0.36–0.77)] being daily laborer [AOR = 3.47; 95% CI: (1.78–6.75)] were associated with timely initiation of complementary feeding. Conclusion: The prevalence of timely introduction of complementary feeding in children aged 6–24 months is still low in the study areas. There was also disparity between urban and rural mothers in which urban mothers practiced better. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to empirically examine the effect of company size, leverage, profitability, and capital structure on the value of the company. In this study using quantitative research. The Data used in this study are secondary data obtained in the form of financial statements for 2018-2022 all industrial companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) that have been audited on the IDX website (www.idx.co.id). the population in this study includes manufacturing companies in the telecommunications sub-sector listed on the IDX for the period 2018-2022. Sampling using purposive sampling method. The number of samples as many as 40 companies. Data analysis using multiple linear regression using statistical Application Program tools: Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS). The results of this study is that the size of the company, and profitability does not affect the value of the company, while leverage, and capital structure affect the value of the company. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tax aggressiveness is an activity or reconstruction effort carried out with the aim of maximizing contributions to the company through tax management strategies. This study aims to analyze the effect of capital intensity, inventory intensity, profitability, and leverage on tax aggressiveness. The population studied was property and real estate companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange from 2019 to 2022. Sampling using a purposive sampling method. The number of samples as many as 61 companies. Data collection techniques through documentation techniques using secondary data sources. Data analysis using multiple linear regression using statistical Application Program tools: Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS). The results of this study showed that capital intensity, and profitability affect tax aggressiveness, while inventory intensity, and leverage did not affect tax aggressiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to empirically examine the effect of investment decisions, funding decisions, and dividend policy on the value of the company. In this study using quantitative research. The Data used in this study are secondary data. The population in this study is a list of Sharia stock indices listed on The Jakarta Islamic Index (JII) in 2018-2022. Sampling method using purposive sampling. The number of samples as many as 66 companies. The method of analysis conducted in this study using statistical Application Program tools: Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS). The results of this study are that investment decisions affect the value of the company, while funding and dividend policy decisions do not affect the value of the company. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The safety of airport runways is important to guarantee aircraft taking-off, landing, and taxiing, and the comparison of the mechanical response of pavement structures under dynamic and static loading by LS-DYNA has rarely been studied. The purpose of this work is to separate two analysis methods to investigate the mechanical response of rigid airport pavements. Firstly, a tire–road coupling model of an airfield was established to evaluate the suitability of dynamic and static analyses. Then, the effects of landing pitch angles, sinking speeds, and tire pressures on the effective stress, effective strain, and z-displacement of the runway were investigated for both dynamic and static analysis. Finally, the significance of influence factors was analyzed by regression analysis in Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS). The results indicated that the effective stress, effective strain, and z-displacement of the runway increased with a decrease in the landing pitch angle, which also increased with an increase in the sinking speed and tire pressure. It was demonstrated that the difference in pavement mechanical response between dynamic and static analyses progressively widened at high tire pressure and sinking speed. In other words, the static analysis method can be adopted to assess the dynamic mechanical behavior when the landing pitch angle is large and the tire pressure is small. Among the various factors of mechanical response, the effect of tire pressure was the most obvious, followed by sinking speed and landing pitch angle. The work proposes a new approach to understanding the mechanical behavior of runways under complicated and varied conditions, evaluates the applicability of the dynamic and static mechanical analysis methods, identifies key factors in the dynamic and static mechanical analysis of rigid runways, and provides technical support for improving and maintaining the impact resistance of pavement facilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study investigated the influence of the use of information technology on job effectiveness using Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo as a case study. The study adopted the descriptive survey research design. The study's population consisted of four hundred and seventy-seven (477) members of staff of the University who use information technology in their daily work. The sampling technique was total enumeration. The research instrument was a questionnaire consisting of 19 item statements with some open-ended questions implemented to characterise internet, e-mail, PowerPoint and computer use practices in the work context. The data collected was subjected to statistical analysis using the Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) software. Descriptive statistics tools such as frequency count, and cumulative percentages were used to describe the demographic characteristics of respondents and answer the research questions. The study findings show that the use of the internet, e-mail, PowerPoint and computer had a positive impact on staff job effectiveness. The findings further revealed cyber security, adaptation and training and technical issues to be major concerns. The test of hypothesis on the use of technology and job effectiveness however, found a weak positive relationship between the frequency of internet use and job effectiveness which suggests that other factors are more significant in determining job effectiveness. The regression model significantly predicted job effectiveness indicating that internet use frequency is a statistically significant predictor, but not the sole determinant of job effectiveness. The study recommended that measures should be put in place to address the concerns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aimed to determine the comparison of employee performance during the 2020 Work From Home (WFH) implementation and after the WFH implementation at the Social Affairs Office of Ogan Ilir Regency. The population in this study consisted of 46 employees of the Social Affairs Office of Ogan Ilir Regency. The data collection method used in this study was a questionnaire. The analysis technique used was comparative analysis. The data in this analysis were processed using the Statistical for Product and Service Solution (SPSS) program. Based on the results of the analysis, it can be concluded that there is a difference in employee performance during the 2020 WFH implementation and after the WFH implementation at the Social Affairs Office of Ogan Ilir Regency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) is frequently used in monitoring of meteorological events. The goal of this study was to establish the relationship between the spatial NDVI with air temperature and precipitation amounts in major crops cultivated in the steppe zone of Ukraine, namely, winter wheat, winter rapeseed, grain corn, soybeans, and sunflower. The study included the croplands of eight regions: the Crimea, Kherson, Mykolaiv, Odesa, Zaporizhzhia, Dnipropetrovsk, Kirovohrad, and Kharkiv. The yield data were retrieved from the official bodies of the State Statistical Service of Ukraine. The meteorological data on monthly air temperature and rainfall were retrieved from regional hydrometeorological centers. The NDVI values were retrieved from the GIMMS Global Agricultural Monitoring System, which provides Terrain MODIS NDVI 8- Day smoothed time series with 250 m resolution. The study was performed for the 2021-2022 for winter rapeseed and sunflower; 2017 and 2020 for grain corn; 2022 for winter wheat; and 2017 for soybeans. We found almost no or weak correlation between monthly NDVI values of the studied crops and rainfall amounts. A stronger correlation was found for air temperature, with the greatest values of the correlation coefficient of 0.76, 0.72, -- 0.72 for sunflower, soybeans, and winter wheat, respectively. The linear regression models, developed to predict NDVI based on the air temperature for the mentioned crops, provided good prediction accuracy with the relative error within 10-20%. The best overall fit and accuracy was produced by the model of sunflower's NDVI. Only winter crops were observed to have a negative correlation with air temperature, suggesting that the cultivated varieties of these crops are heat-intolerant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work determines the gaps between expectations and perceptions about the quality of the service that patients and families receive in primary health care (PHC) in Guayas, Ecuador. A descriptive, cross-sectional and non-experimental study was carried out, primarily prospective with respect to expectations and retrospective with respect to perceptions of service quality. For its development, a random sample of 533 users from the northern and southern urban sectors of the city of Guayaquil was determined, who were asked to answer a questionnaire. Their responses were collected using a seven-point scale intended to determine magnitudes of gaps, which were confirmed using the Wilcoxon test. The results reveal a significant gap between women, specifically those over 21 years of age who have studied at the technological and university level, and those who work. In general, the five dimensions of quality present significant gaps, highlighting that the lowest gap occurs when the medical professional listens attentively and treats the patient with kindness. Instead, the largest gap occurs because there are no available or easily accessible times for medical appointments. Finally, the dimension that indicates the gaps that service providers best resolve are the empathy items, recording the smallest deviations; On the contrary, the reliability dimension presents the greatest deviation, thus showing higher degrees of dissatisfaction, in both cases significant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research has taken place using experimental laboratory methods of quantitative analysis. The variables used include varieties consisting of yellow millet and red millet, and plant life ranging from 6 days, 9 days, 12 days, and 15 days. The data obtained was analyzed based on parametric statistics using ANSIRA, using statistical product and service solution (SPSS) with version 24 and determining best treatment using effectiveness tests and determining antioxidant levels of best treatment. Different types and ages of plants have very real effects on reduced sugars, phenols, vitamin C, flavonoids and total soluble solids. Significant treatment between different plant types and ages resulted in a 6-day-old ryellow millet (MG1) being the best treatment with a result value (NH) of 0.73 with the parameter criterion reduction sugar level of 1.48%, total phenol content of 27.26 mg GAE/100mg, vitamin C 2.05 mg/100 mg, total flavonoid content of 4.98 mg QE/100 Mg, TPT 11.36 mg/L, color 4.81 (neutral), flavor 5.16 (few likes) and aroma 5.4 (few likes). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modeling and decision making for queueing systems have been one of fundamental topics in operations research. For these problems, uncertainty models are established by estimation of key parameters such as expected interarrival and service times. In practice, however, their distributions are unknown, and decision makers are only given historical records of waiting times, which contain relevant but indirect information on the uncertainties. Their complex temporal dependence on the queueing dynamics and the absence of distributional information on the model primitives render estimation of queueing systems remarkably challenging. In the paper "Robust Queue Inference from Waiting Times" by Chaithanya Bandi, Eojin Han, and Alexej Proskynitopoulos, a new inference framework based on robust optimization is proposed to estimate unknown service times from waiting time observations. This new framework allows data-driven, distribution-free estimation on unknown model primitives by solving tractable optimization problems. Observational data from queueing systems are of great practical interest in many application areas because they can be leveraged for better statistical inference of service processes. However, these observations often only provide partial information of the system for various reasons in real-world settings. Moreover, their complex temporal dependence on the queueing dynamics and the absence of distributional information on the model primitives render estimation of queueing systems remarkably challenging. To this end, we consider the problem of inferring service times from waiting time observations. Specifically, we propose an inference framework based on robust optimization, where service times are described via sets that are calibrated by the observed waiting times. We provide conditions under which these data-driven uncertainty sets become asymptotically confident estimators of the service process; that is, they contain unknown service times almost surely as the number of observations grows. We also introduce tractable optimization formulations to compute bounds of various service time characteristics such as moments and risk measures. In this way, our approach is data driven and free of distributional assumptions on unknown model primitives, which is required by existing methods. We also generalize the proposed inference framework to tandem queues and feed-forward networks, offering broader capability in estimation of real-world queueing systems. Our simulation study demonstrates that the proposed approach easily incorporates information of arrival processes such as moments and correlations and performs consistently well on queueing networks under various settings. Supplemental Material: The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/opre.2022.0091. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the evolution of Iraq‐South Korea relations since the late 1970s. It relies on Iraq's and South Korea's governmental platforms, local media outlets, and databases such as the Korea Statistical Information Service and the Observatory of Economic Complexity. This article argues that while in the 1970s both countries had economic rapport, bilateral economic diplomacy between both countries began in the 1980s, faced challenges in the 1990s and was revived by 2003. In the 1970s, the relationship was focused on trade and infrastructure. By the 1980s, official diplomatic and bilateral relations took shape, resulting in increased trade and South Korea energy ventures in Iraq. By the 1990s relations were dormant due to Iraq's invasion of Kuwait and the UN sanctions. In 2003, the diplomatic relationship was revived and further enhanced. These include energy, trade, infrastructure, and South Korea's humanitarian, military, and industrial assistance to Iraq. The post‐2003 phase shows the expansion of ties between both countries including the Kurdistan Regional Government. Bilateral economic diplomacy between South Korea and Iraq has not been without political and security challenges, particularly concerning Iraq's political stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Cancer is a disease with high social costs, and policymaking through accurate statistics is very important. This study presents the national cancer statistics on the incidence of urological cancers in the Republic of Korea over 22 years, from 1999 to 2020. Materials and Methods: Through the Korean Statistical Information Service, data on the incidence of urological cancers by sex and age in each year was obtained. For each urological cancer, the number of cases, crude incidence rate (CIR), and age-standardized incidence rate (ASR) were calculated, and the statistical trends were confirmed by joinpoint regression analysis. Results: Urological cancers, which have increased ASR over 22 years, are as follows: prostate cancer (average annual percent change [AAPC]=6.72%, p-trend<0.05), testicular cancer (AAPC=5.26%, p-trend<0.05), ureter cancer (AAPC=4.16%, p-trend<0.05), kidney cancer (AAPC=4.14%, p-trend<0.05), renal pelvis cancer (AAPC=3.86%, p-trend<0.05), and total urological cancer (AAPC=4.37%, p-trend<0.05). Urological cancers, which has decreased ASR over 22 years, are as follows: penile cancer (AAPC= -2.93%, p-trend<0.05) and bladder cancer (AAPC=-0.31%, p-trend<0.05). Conclusions: It was confirmed that the ASR of all urological cancers increased for 22 years, except for bladder and penile cancer. With the aging of the population, the CIR increased for all urological cancers. This study will serve as basic data for future research and policy decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Desarrollo Gerencial is the property of Universidad Simon Bolivar (USB) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Introduction: Botulinum toxin injection has become ubiquitous in the treatment of wrinkles. It is less invasive and easy to perform, with almost immediate effects. Although it is the most common non surgical cosmetic procedure performed in many parts of the world, accurate figures of its increasing trend in India need to be unraveled as well. Aim: To analyse the clinical profile, outcomes, indications, and nature of revisits among patients seeking Botulinum toxin injections for cosmetic indications. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted at a tertiary care centre, Department of Dermatology, Cutis Academy of Cutaneous Sciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India, for six months between November 2018 and April 2019 among 80 consecutive patients who received Botulinum toxin injection A for cosmetic purposes. The collected data included age, gender, indication, the number of units of Botulinum toxin used, and the profile of patients seeking revisits. The data was recorded and analysed using Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) version 23.0. Results: The average age for treatment among females was 38 years, while among males, it was 35.5 years. Females, comprising 61 (76%), outnumbered men by a factor of three. The single most common indication for Botulinum toxin injection among females was Crow's feet, accounting for 26 (43%), and among females below 40 years, it was Masseter hypertrophy in 13 (21%). The most common indication among men was Glabellar line correction in 10 (53%). Other indications included the Nefertiti lift, Marionette lines, Popply chin, Brow lift, and Gummy smile. Women revisited the clinic three times more often than men. Among women, Crow's feet correction was the most common reason for revisits. The number of units of Botulinum toxin needed was found to be higher in males for Glabellar lines and in older individuals for Masseter Hypertrophy. Conclusion: Women are more receptive to cosmetic facial Botulinum toxin injections and revisit more frequently than men. Adverse effects were mild and self-limiting. Upper-face Botulinum toxin injections appear to be the preferred indication in both genders. More epidemiological studies detailing the profile of patients seeking aesthetic Botulinum toxin injections are needed to better understand patients' needs and concerns, offer preprocedure counselling, manage their expectations, and provide customised services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Riwayat: Educational Journal of History & Humanities is the property of Riwayat: Educational Journal of History & Humanities and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Research on communications has consistently demonstrated that mass media is predicted to have a strong influence on students' behavior and their overall disposition to academic performance. However, how school values influence media preference and use is less well investigated. This study investigated whether school values influence media preference and the purpose of using media in a private university in North Central, Nigeria in Nigeria. The study adopted a triangulating type of mixed method research design and stratified sampling technique in recruiting 390 respondents. Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) version 22 was used in analysing the returned questionnaires, while five (5) in-depth interviews were content analyzed. The study used both the descriptive and inferential methods of data analysis. The findings of the study revealed a decline in the reading of print media. The study also found that there was a positive relationship between school values and media preference. Further, findings revealed a non-existing relationship between the purpose for using mass media and school values. The study concluded that though, mass media, students, and the broad social system (university) are all interconnected, general institutional core values may not necessarily be upheld as individual values as reflected in the different purposes for using media by students'. The study recommends that lecturers should recommend print media sections for academic work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The researcher investigated the relationship between language-learning strategies and writing performance of Grade 12 Humanities and Social Science learners. Seventy-nine (79) learners from Nagpayong High School served as the respondents of this study that utilized descriptive-correlation design. The adopted research instruments were Oxford's Strategy Inventory for Language Learners and the CUNY Assessment Test in Writing. To ensure the accuracy and facilitation of data analysis, percentage and arithmetic mean, and Spearman rho correlation were utilized through the help of SPSS (Statistical Product and Service Solution) software. It was found out that the majority of the Grade 12 Humanities and Social Sciences Strand learners utilized a variety of language-learning strategies, especially metacognitive and social strategies. Despite some errors in writing mechanics, the results of their writing assessment were still within the competent category. It was concluded that among all the strategies, cognitive and compensation strategies were found to be related to the respondents' writing performance. Among the recommendations were the following: (a) students' practicing memory strategies in language learning; (b) teachers' consideration of multisensory activities to strengthen recall of lesson; (c) curriculum developers' creating worksheets and activities for implicit and explicit learning--most especially in writing mechanics; and (d) teachers' promoting awareness of the use of the language strategies, especially compensation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study examined the roles played by librarians in promoting the use of Open Educational Resources (OER) in their institutions in South-South and South-West geo-political zone of Nigeria. The descriptive survey design was adopted for the study. Data were collected using an online questionnaire and a total enumeration sampling technique was used. Data were analyzed with frequency counts and simple percentages, and Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) version 23 was used to generate the mean and standard deviation. A total of 200 librarians in university libraries were sent the online questionnaire and 83 librarians responded by filling out the questionnaire giving a total response rate of 42%. The 83 librarians who responded to the online questionnaire was used as the sample of the study. The questionnaire were validated by two experts in research methodology and educational technology. Cronbach Alpha was used to establish the reliability of the instrument, which yielded 0.86. The findings revealed that the librarians have a high level of awareness of the concept of OER and that the majority of librarians were actively involved in promoting the use of OER in their various institutions. Lastly, the study established that inconsistent power supply, lack of library sensitization on the use of OER, poor Internet connectivity, and lack of institutional support for the creation and use of OER were some of the significant challenges to the effective use of OER in universities in Nigeria. Based on the findings, the researchers recommended that academic libraries in Nigeria must meet global standards by promoting universal access to education through the use of OER among others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aerial base stations (ABSs) seem promising to enhance the coverage and capacity of fifth‐generation and upcoming networks. With the flexible mobility of ABSs, they can be positioned in air to maximize the number of users served with a guaranteed quality of service (QoS). However, ABSs may be overloaded or underutilized given inefficient placement, and user association has not been well addressed. Hence, we propose a three‐dimensional ABS placement scheme with a delay‐QoS‐driven user association to balance loading among ABSs. First, a load balancing utility function is designed based on proportional fairness. Then, an optimization problem for joint ABS placement and user association is formulated to maximize the utility function subject to statistical delay QoS requirements and ABS collision avoidance constraints. To solve this problem, we introduce an efficient modified gray wolf optimizer for ABS placement with a greedy user association strategy. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed scheme outperforms baselines in terms of load balancing and delay QoS provisioning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explored university lecturers 'feelings, awareness, and attitudes toward Open Education Resources (OERs). The study focused on two higher learning institutions based in Tanzania. It was conducted through a quantitative approach. Data were collected using a questionnaire from 52 lecturers who were purposively selected. The collected data were subjected to Statistical Product and Service Solutions version 20 computer program for calculation of descriptive Statistics. A descriptive analysis was used to analyze the obtained data, which were then presented in frequencies and percentages in tables. Findings indicate that the sampled lecturers from the higher learning institutions are moderately aware of the OERs. Regarding the feelings of lecturers over the use of OER, the collected data have revealed that a majority of the lecturers believed in OERs, are happy for those who adopt their OERs, and that they feel that OERs enhance the reputation of their institutions. In terms of lecturers' attitudes toward OERs, a majority of the lecturers strongly agreed that OERs are more beneficial to the academic and research communities. The study concludes that a majority of the study participants are moderately aware of the OERs and believe in them and that they are pleased when people adopt their OERs. The study suggests that there should be training and supporting lecturers who have unfavorable sentiments towards OERs so that they can change and use the program for their academic and research activities and advancement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study examined the knowledge, attitudes and practices of oral hygiene among students in Ahenema Kokoben. The study employed descriptive design of the quantitative approach. The study sampled 60 respondents of which 85 was made up of students. The study employed questionnaire. With the quantitative data, it was analysed using frequencies and percentages with the aid of Statistical Package for Service Solution. The study found that students were knowledgeable about oral hygiene. Students have good attitude towards oral hygiene. They thought that brushing their teeth regularly will help prevent oral problems; regular visit to dentist is relevant; and think that maintaining good healthy teeth is an individual responsibility. Students have good practice regarding oral hygiene. Respondents spend small time in brushing their teeth while small respondents brush under the supervision of their parents. It was recommended that students should be encouraged to continue to visit the dentist regularly and not to wait till they have issue with their teeth. Also, students should be encouraged to spend more time in brushing their teeth regularly and also twice a day. Moreover, parents should be encouraged to supervise their children when brushing their teeth, especially, among students who have decayed teeth or oral problems. Students should be educated or sensitize about the negative effect of sweet on their oral health. Rinsing of their mouth after meals should be encouraged among students to ensure proper oral hygiene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: The Surgical Apgar Score (SAS) describes a feasible and objective tool for predicting surgical outcomes. However, the accuracy of the score and its correlation with the complication severity has not been well established in many grounds of low resource settings. Objective: To determine the accuracy of Surgical Apgar Score in predicting the severity of post-operative complications among patients undergoing emergency laparotomy at Muhimbili National Hospital. Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted for a period of 12 months; patients were followed for 30 days, the risk of complication was classified using the Surgical Apgar Score (SAS), severity of complication was estimated using the Clavien Dindo Classification (CDC) grading scheme and Comprehensive Complication Index (CCI). Spearman correlation and simple linear regression statistic models were applied to establish the relationship between Surgical Apgar Score (SAS) and Comprehensive Complication Index (CCI). The Accuracy of SAS was evaluated by determining its discriminatory capacity on Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) curve, data normality was tested by Shapiro–Wilk statistic 0.929 (p < 0.001).Analysis was done using International Business Machine Statistical Product and Service Solution (IBM SPSS) version 27. Results: Out of the 111 patients who underwent emergency laparotomy, 71 (64%) were Male and the median age (IQR) was 49 (36, 59).The mean SAS was 4.86 (± 1.29) and the median CCI (IQR) was 36.20 (26.2, 42.40). Patients in the high-risk SAS group (0–4) were more likely to experience severe and life-threatening complications, with a mean CCI of 53.3 (95% CI: 47.2–63.4), compared to the low-risk SAS group (7–10) with a mean CCI of 21.0 (95% CI: 5.3–36.2). A negative correlation was observed between SAS and CCI, with a Spearman r of -0.575 (p < 0.001) and a regression coefficient b of -11.5 (p < 0.001). The SAS demonstrated good accuracy in predicting post-operative complications, with an area under the curve of 0.712 (95% CI: 0.523–0.902, p < 0.001) on the ROC. Conclusion: This study has demonstrated that SAS can accurately predict the occurrence of complications following emergency laparotomy at Muhimbili National Hospital. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The object of research is the architecture of general-purpose services for economic researches. The excessive popularity of service-oriented architecture implementations has led to consideration of the application of this ap- proach in the production of organizations engaged in processing statistical and economic information for analytical research. This is due to the possibility of reusing services, each of which is designed to perform specific statistical functions, and the availability of design solutions for compiling these functions into a program for implementing a statistical task solution, using orchestration as a basis for dynamic service calls. The paper proposes an approach to the development of external statistical services as a set of software products for solving analytical tasks by groups of independent researchers. Since such researchers do not have sufficient financial support, the use of external statistical services will allow them to conduct an in-depth analysis of their research results. The proposed approach assumes that such a service should have its typical data storage structure with fixed types and attributes, to which the researcher imports their own data, selects a calculation execution scheme, initializes their execution, and receives results. Taking into account this storage scheme, the authors have identified the main groups of metadata necessary to describe the implementation of the statistical process. A sta- tistical business process typically consists of a set of procedures that implement certain statistical operations and data transformations, and the provided set of metadata allows for the realization of the process goal and activity. Issues that require further in-depth research for the practical implementation of the proposed idea have been identified. The use of service-oriented architecture for building statistical processes allows for standardizing the approach by unifying the functions of individual services. The availability of possibilities for practical implemen- tation of software products in a service-oriented architecture using a cloud environment in modern IT industry serves as a guide for further research direction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Siwalan sap (Borassus flabellifer L.) is a liquid that comes out of the filter vessels as a result of cob tapping (bunches), both male and female flowers that have a sweet taste. Nira containing high sugar content, and nira ca experience the process of fermentation assisted by microbial activity. This study aims to determine the levels of reducing sugars, pH, total acids and antioxidant activity contained in legen drinks. In addition, to find out the best treatment related to the best temperature and storage time. This study uses a laboratory experimental quantitative analysis method. The research variables included temperature consisting of freezer temperature, refrigerator temperature, room temperature and storage period consisting of 12 hour, 24 hour and 34 hour. The data obtained were analysed based on parametric statistics using analysis of variance (ANOVA) using statistical product and service solution (SPPSS) version 24 and determining the best treatment using effectiveness tests. Temperature and long storage different influential very real to sugar reduction, pH, total acid and antioxidant activity. Interaction between temperature and different storage times had a significant effect on reducing sugars and had a very significant effect on pH, total acid and antioxidant activity. Based on the determination of the effectiveness test, it shows that the temperature 00 C and long storage 24 hour and the best treatment with a yield value (NH) of 0,69 with the parameter is sugar reduction 3,98%, pH levels 2,57, total acid 3,83%, antioxidant activity (IC50) 12,24 g/ml, color 4,67 (neutral). Aroma 5,4 (like) and taste 5,16 (like). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In modern conditions, the competitiveness of many tourist centers is ensured through the development of forms of network interaction between entities involved in the process of tourist services within a certain geographical area. One of these forms of networking is a tourist cluster, which is based on such concepts as "integration", "cooperation", "competition". Each system in the field of tourism needs to be promoted and popularized among tourists, including the cluster. In this regard, the main purpose of this work is to consider the issues of branding tourist clusters on the example of the Almaty Mountain cluster in the Republic of Kazakhstan. As part of the study on specifics of cluster systems branding, the authors relied on scientific publications presented in various periodicals. To identify the main trends in the development of tourism and clusters in Kazakhstan, the data presented on the official websites of state bodies and statistical services were employed. Based on the presented analysis, the authors considered the main characteristics of the Almaty Mountain cluster development, as well as the features of branding this territory at the national and local levels. The main stages of territory branding are presented, taking into account the main characteristics of the cluster system. In general, within the framework of the work, the authors put forward the main directions for the formation and promotion of cluster systems brand in modern conditions. At the same time, it is noted that the branding process should ensure the sustainable development of integration and cooperation ties between the participants of the tourism cluster. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Planning is important for the management and sustainable use of resources. To ensure sustainable quality meals, there is the need to plan meals in the home. Planning of meals can best be achieved if gender, especially, women who are the key people responsible for meals in the home, are involved. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate the determinants of gender-based meal planning and the frequency of meals in Ghana using structured questionnaires and a multistage sampling technique. A total of 3521 households were interviewed across fourteen regions of Ghana, to identify how males and females plan their meals at the household level, and the key players involved in the choice of meals in the home. The country is stratified into regions and the regions further stratified into urban, peri-urban and rural areas. Purposive sampling was used to select households for the survey considering social classes and livelihoods of the people in the communities. Data obtained were entered in Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) version 16 (IBM SPSS, Armonk, NY) for analysis using the Pearson's chi square at a P-value of 0.05 to determine statistical differences between gender. Associations between factors that influence frequencies of meals were determined by Cramér's V. Findings showed that, women are mostly responsible for meals at the household level. The study also showed that most Ghanaian households eat three times per day, but their meals are often not planned. Furthermore, the findings of the study suggest that educational attainment and income do not have significant impact on the frequency of meals and gender-based planning of meals in the home. The study showed that 67.41% of households involved in the study were headed by men but those responsible for cooking were mostly women (63.71%). Only a few households planned their meals. Of these, women were mostly responsible for the provision of meals. Therefore, it is important to consider gender in the planning of meals to ensure good nutrition and food availability to the household throughout the year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although the clinical outcomes of diabetes have improved, diabetes remains the principal cause of end-stage renal disease. The aim of the study is to investigate whether mortality trends in individuals with type 2 diabetes and kidney transplantation (KT) have changed. Methods: This study analyzed data from the National Health Insurance Service claims database linked to death records from the National Statistical Information Service in Korea. Information from a total of 2521 deaths of KT recipients was collected from 2006 to 2018. Results: The age at death of KT recipients increased from 57.4 years in 2006 to 65.2 years in 2018, with a mean change of +0.65 years/year (p < 0.001). The overall age at death increased by 0.55 and 0.66 years/year in the type 2 diabetes and non-diabetes populations, respectively. The age at death was significantly higher in the type 2 diabetes group, and was maintained during the study period. The proportion of death due to malignancy and cerebrovascular and heart disease was maintained, that due to type 2 diabetes decreased and that due to pneumonia increased. Neither diabetes nor hypertension determined the age at death, and the age at KT was the most prominent factor affecting age at death in KT recipients. Conclusions: The age at death in KT recipients increased over the 12 years between 2006 and 2018, with similar trends in the type 2 diabetes and non-diabetes groups. The age at KT was higher in patients with type 2 diabetes, and was the main contributor to the age at death in KT recipients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This research aims to develop a moderated mediation model to examine the relationships among participants' motivation, organizational identification and participation loyalty with perceived business practice corporate social responsibility (CSR) in philanthropic road-running events. Design/methodology/approach: The data come from a questionnaire survey that was administered to a sample of 236 participants as runners at philanthropic road-running events. All hypotheses are tested using Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) and structural equation modeling (SEM)–Analysis of Moment Structures (AMOS) with a bootstrapping technique. Findings: The results reveal that perceived business practice CSR moderates the relationship between extrinsic motivation and organizational identification and then influences the mediating effect of organizational identification on the relationship between extrinsic motivation and participation loyalty. This highlights the important role of perceived business practice CSR to participants' attitude and behavior when supporting philanthropic road-running events. Originality/value: This research scrutinizes the role of perceived business practice CSR on philanthropic road-running events through an empirical study and resultant evidence. One recommendation is that when a firm intends to host a philanthropic road-running event, the firm must implement the reality of sound CSR in the firm's business practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Whether the decline of birth weight (BW) reported in developed countries in the early 2000s is ongoing remains unknown. Furthermore, despite recent sharp increases in twin births, comparing secular trends of BW between singletons and twins is difficult, as studies have rarely examined secular trends of BW in twins and singletons simultaneously. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the most recent 20-year trends (2000–2020) of BW in twins and singletons in South Korea. Annual natality files from 2000 to 2020 obtained from the Korean Statistical Information Service were analyzed. A yearly decrease of BW was 3 g among singletons and 5 to 6 g in twins from 2000 to 2020, indicating a widening gap of BW between twins and singletons with increasing years. Gestational age (GA) also decreased in twins and singletons with yearly decreases of 0.28 days in singletons and 0.41 days in twins. Whereas BW decreased in term (GA ≥ 37 weeks), and very preterm groups (28 weeks ≤ GA < 32 weeks) from 2000 to 2020 in twins and singletons, it increased in moderate to late preterm (32 weeks ≤ GA < 37 weeks) groups, indicating a non-linear relationship between BW and GA. The prevalence of macrosomia (BW > 4000 g) in singletons decreased from 2000 to 2020, whereas low birth weight (LBW; BW < 2500 g) increased in twins and singletons. LBW is associated with adverse health outcomes. Effective public health strategies aiming at reduction in the incidence of LBW in the population should be developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bloodstream infection (BSI) is a common type of infection frequently diagnosed in clinics. The emergence and spread of ESBLs-producing Escherichia coli (E. coli) has emerged as one of the biggest challenges in global community health. Methods: The production of ESBLs was determined by the composite disk diffusion method. The expression of the various resistance and virulence genes were detected by PCR and sequencing. Multi-locus sequence typing (MLST) and phylogenetic groups were used for the classification. The transfer of resistant plasmids was determined by conjugation assay. The statistical differences were analyzed using Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) version 23.0. Results: A total of 60 strains of ESBLs-producing E. coli were collected. The resistance genes that were identified included blaCTX-M, blaTEM, blaSHV, blaOXA-1 and mcr-1. The most common one was the blaCTX-M including blaCTX-M-27 (n = 16), blaCTX-M-14 (n = 15), blaCTX-M-15 (n = 11), blaCTX-M-55 (n = 14) and blaCTX-M-65 (n = 5). A total of 31 STs were detected, and the most abundant among which was ST131 (n = 16, 26.7%). Most of the E. coli (n = 46, 76.7%) belonged to the groups B2 and D. And some virulence genes were related to the classification of the E. coli. Among them, the detection rates of hek/hra, kpsMII and papGII-III in groups B2 and D were higher than those in groups A and B1. The detection rates of cnf1, iucC and papGII-III in ST131 were higher than those in non-ST131. And the distributions of hek/hra, iroN, iucC, kpsMII and papGII-III were related to the blaCTX-M subtypes. Finally, most bacterial (n = 32, 53.3%) resistance genes could be transferred between the bacteria by plasmids, especially IncFIB. Conclusion: ESBLs-producing E. coli in BSI exhibited had high resistance rates and carried a variety of virulence factors (VFs). This is necessary to strengthen the monitoring of ESBLs-producing isolates in the medical environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the importance of interpreting interviews in qualitative research. It highlights the challenges faced by social researchers, such as ensuring clear communication, understanding the respondent's perspective, and dealing with sensitive topics. The author, Alvesson, takes a theoretical and philosophical approach to understanding human dynamics and feelings in interviews. The article emphasizes the need for a reflexive and nuanced approach to interview work, rather than relying on mechanical coding or rigid formats. Overall, it is recommended for researchers looking to enhance their interviewing practice and explore its theoretical basis. [Extracted from the article]

The purpose of this study is to understand the relationship between social capital and the performance of Farmers' Cooperatives (Cooperatives) and explore the internal mechanism of social capital affecting the performance of Cooperatives. This work selects two dimensions: cognitive social capital (CSC) and structural social capital (SSC), as indexes to measure the social capital of Cooperatives. An analytical framework is proposed: "Social capital-Dynamic capabilities-Organizational performance." First, according to the characteristics of Cooperatives, it determines the most appropriate index values and preprocesses the original data. Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) and Analysis of Moment Structure (AMOS) 25.0 software are used for factor analysis. A financial performance evaluation model of Cooperatives based on backpropagation neural network (BPNN) is constructed. Then, based on the survey data of 212 Cooperatives in Liaoning Province, the structural equation model (SEM) is used to test the interaction path between "Social capital-Dynamic capacity-Organizational performance." The results show that SSC's standardized regression coefficients (SRCs) on Cooperatives' economic benefits and member satisfaction are 0.208 and 0.095, respectively, significant at 1%. The actual case analysis concludes that the larger the scale of the structural network embedded in Cooperatives is, the more conducive it is to obtaining extensive resources. As such, Cooperatives can absorb the advanced experience and compensate for the weakness of lack of internal resources and experience. The SRC of CSC on Cooperatives' economic benefits is 0.336, and the P value is 0.204, indicating an insignificant impact of CSC on Cooperatives' economic benefits. This work considers environmental variability, uses dynamic capacity as an independent variable, opens the "black box" between social capital and the performance of Cooperatives, and reveals the intermediate path between the two. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An adaptive learning method for tool wear monitoring, taking the time of one machining process step as a monitoring period, is proposed, which aims to provide new ideas for tool life research and improve the reliability of machine tool operation. First, the motor current signal is collected as the original signal, and the RMS (root mean square) value of the current signal is extracted as the characteristic quantity. Statistical analysis of characteristic quantity RMS using SPSS (Statistical Product and Service Solutions) method shows that the RMS value of current signal obeys normal distribution approximately in the monitoring period with process step as the unit. Then, a monitoring method based on ± 3σ principle of normal distribution is proposed. Although RMS does not follow normal distribution completely, it is still possible to estimate the dispersion range of RMS by introducing distribution coefficient K through ± 3σ principle of statistical mathematics. Finally, a self-learning algorithm for the boundary mathematical model of tool wear monitoring is presented. According to the analysis of tool wear, the tool failure time could be calculated, and the tool life can be predicted. The experimental results show that the monitoring model can be formed quickly during semi-finishing and finishing machining and can get the satisfactory monitoring results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Primary lung cancer is the most common cause of cancer-related mortality in the United States (US). Approximately 90% of lung cancers are associated with smoking and the use of other tobacco products. Based on histology, lung cancers are divided into small-cell lung carcinomas (SCLCs) and non-small-cell lung carcinomas (NSCLCs). Most SCLCs are of the pure subtype, while the rare combined SCLCs contain elements of both small-cell and non-small-cell morphologies. This study sought to evaluate the demographics, clinical factors, molecular abnormalities, treatment approaches, and survival outcomes with combined SCLC and NSCLCs. Materials and Methods: Data on 2126 combined SCLC patients was extracted from the Surveillance Epidemiology and End Result (SEER) database from 2000 to 2018. Data extracted for analyses included age, sex, race, tumor size, tumor location, metastasis status, stage at diagnosis, treatment received, and treatment outcomes. Multivariate analysis was performed using Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) software. Results: The patients had a median age of 68 years; 43.9% of the patients were female and 56.1% were male; 84.5% were White and 11.7% were African Americans. The majority of patients had a poorly differentiated disease at 29.6%; 17% were undifferentiated, 3.2% were moderately differentiated, and 0.8% were well differentiated. Chemotherapy was the most common treatment modality (45.3%); 17% underwent surgery only, 10.3% underwent surgery followed by adjuvant chemotherapy, and 10% underwent radiation after surgery. Five-year cancer-specific survival was 15.2% with surgery alone, and combined surgery and chemotherapy provided the highest percentages (38.3% and 34.7%, respectively). Females had significantly higher 1- and 5-year cancer-specific survival rates compared to males (59.3% and 29.9% vs. 48.0% and 23.7, respectively; p < 0.001). Well-differentiated tumors had significantly higher survival compared to other gradings (p < 0.001). Survival decreased as tumor staging moved distally from localized to regional to distant (p < 0.001). Metastasis to bone, liver, brain, and lung significantly decreased survival in comparison to patients who did not have any metastasis (p < 0.001). Females had significantly shorter survival compared to their counterparts when metastasis was to the bone, brain, or liver (p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis identified male sex (Hazard Ratio (HR) = 1.2), undifferentiated grade (HR = 1.9), regional extent of disease (HR = 1.7), distant extent of disease (HR = 3.7), and metastasis to liver (HR = 3.5) as variables associated with worse survival. Conclusion: Combined SCLC is overall very rare. However, the frequency of presentation with combined SCLC is on the rise, in part due to improvements in diagnostic techniques. Despite advances in therapies, treating combined SCLC is challenging, and novel therapies are not utilized, owing to low rates of targetable mutations. Combined SCLC has higher survival rates if well differentiated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]