Meta-Analysis and Forest Plots for Sustainability of Heavy Load Carrier Equipment Used in the Industrial Mining Environment

It is a common recommendation not to attempt a reliability analysis with a small sample size. However, this is feasible after considering certain statistical methods. One such method is meta-analysis, which can be considered to assess the effectiveness of a small sample size by combining data from different studies. The method explores the presence of heterogeneity and the robustness of the fresh large sample size using sensitivity analysis. The present study describes the approach in the reliability estimation of diesel engines and the components of industrial heavy load carrier equipment used in mines for transporting ore. A meta-analysis is carried out on field-based small-sample data for the reliability of different subsystems of the engine. The level of heterogeneity is calculated for each subsystem, which is further verified by constructing a forest plot. The level of heterogeneity was 0 for four subsystems and 2.23% for the air supply subsystem, which is very low. The result of the forest plot shows that all the plotted points mostly lie either on the center line (line of no effect) or very close to it, for all five subsystems. Hence, it was found that the grouping of an extremely small number of failure data is possible. By using this grouped TBF data, reliability analysis could be very easily carried out.

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Acupuncture for Chronic Pain-Related Insomnia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine ◽

10.1155/2019/5381028 ◽

2019 ◽

Vol 2019 ◽

pp. 1-10

Author(s):

Fushui Liu ◽

Jianyu You ◽

Qi Li ◽

Ting Fang ◽

Mei Chen ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Chronic Pain ◽

Sample Size ◽

Small Sample Size ◽

Meta Analysis ◽

Sham Acupuncture ◽

Small Sample ◽

Control Group ◽

Large Sample Size ◽

Cure Rate ◽

Significant Difference

Objectives. Acupuncture has been widely used to relieve chronic pain-related insomnia (CPRI). However, the efficacy of acupuncture for CPRI is uncertain. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of acupuncture for CPRI. Methods. Seven electronic databases were searched from inception to December 2018. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included if acupuncture was compared to sham acupuncture or conventional drug therapies for treating CPRI. Two reviewers screened each study and extracted data independently. Statistical analyses were conducted by RevMan 5.3 software. Results. A total of nine studies involving 944 patients were enrolled. The pooled analysis indicated that acupuncture treatment was significantly better than control group in improving effective rate (OR = 8.09, 95%CI = [4.75, 13.79], P < 0.00001) and cure rate (OR = 3.17, 95%CI = [2.35, 4.29], P < 0.00001), but subgroup analysis showed that there was no statistically significant difference between acupuncture and sham acupuncture in improving cure rate (OR =10.36, 95% CI [0.53, 201.45], P=0.12) based on one included study. In addition, meta-analysis demonstrated that acupuncture group was superior to control group in debasing PSQI score (MD = -2.65, 95%CI = [-4.00, -1.30], P = 0.0001) and VAS score (MD = -1.44, 95%CI = [-1.58, -1.29], P < 0.00001). And there was no significant difference in adverse events (OR =1.73, 95%CI = [0.92, 3.25], P =0.09) between the two groups. Conclusions. Acupuncture therapy is an effective and safe treatment for CPRI, and this treatment can be recommended for the management of patients with CPRI. Due to the low quality and small sample size of the included studies, more rigorously designed RCTs with high quality and large sample size are recommended in future.

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Risk Assessment of Intermittent and Continuous Nasogastric Enteral Feeding Methods in Adult Inpatients: A Meta-Analysis

Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine ◽

10.1155/2021/8875002 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 2021 ◽

pp. 1-10

Author(s):

Guang Yang ◽

Bojun Zheng ◽

Yi Yu

Keyword(s):

Sample Size ◽

Group Size ◽

Enteral Feeding ◽

Small Sample Size ◽

Meta Analysis ◽

Small Sample ◽

Size Group ◽

Large Sample Size ◽

Increased Risk ◽

Feeding Methods

Diarrhea and pneumonia are common and serious complications in hospitalized patients requiring nasogastric enteral feeding. Our study aimed to compare the risk of diarrhea and pneumonia between intermittent nasogastric enteral feeding (IEF) and continuous nasogastric enteral feeding (CEF). We systematically searched PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane for relevant articles published from August 9, 1992, to September 1, 2019. A total of 637 IEF and CEF patients were included in our meta-analysis. Odds ratios (ORs) with associated 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to estimate the effects of diarrhea and pneumonia. We showed that hospital patients that required IEF had an increased risk of diarrhea compared with CEF. In the subgroup analyses, similar conclusions were identified in the non-China group and small sample size group (size < 100). However, our results showed no significant differences in the China group or large sample size group (size ≥ 100). Furthermore, our analysis showed that no significant association was observed for the risk of pneumonia between IEF and CEF patients. For inpatients requiring nasogastric enteral feeding, CEF is a better method of enteral nutrition compared with IEF, of which patients experience a significantly increased risk of diarrhea.

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The Association between VDR Gene Polymorphisms and Diabetic Retinopathy Susceptibility: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BioMed Research International ◽

10.1155/2016/5305282 ◽

2016 ◽

Vol 2016 ◽

pp. 1-10 ◽

Cited By ~ 6

Author(s):

Yun Zhang ◽

Wei Xia ◽

Ping Lu ◽

Huijuan Yuan

Keyword(s):

Diabetic Retinopathy ◽

Sample Size ◽

Gene Polymorphisms ◽

Small Sample Size ◽

Meta Analysis ◽

Small Sample ◽

Additive Models ◽

Vdr Gene ◽

Foki Polymorphism ◽

Vdr Gene Polymorphisms

Aims. Studies on the associations of vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene polymorphisms with diabetic retinopathy (DR) susceptibility reported conflicting results. A systematic meta-analysis was undertaken to clarify this topic.Methods. A systematic search of electronic databases (PubMed, EMBASE, and CNKI) was carried out until March 31, 2016. The pooled odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were used to assess the strength of the association.Results. A total of 7 studies fulfilling the inclusion criteria were included in this meta-analysis (649 cases and 707 controls). Pooled ORs showed a significant association between FokI polymorphism and DR risk in all the four genetic models (OR=1.612(1.354~1.921), 1.988 (1.481~2.668), 1.889 (1.424~2.505), and 2.674 (1.493~4.790) in allelic, dominant, recessive, and additive models, resp.,PZ<0.01), but not for TaqI or BsmI polymorphism (PZ>0.05). Similar results were found in the subgroup analysis. Sensitivity analysis indicated that the results were relatively stable and reliable. Results of Begg’s and Egger’s tests suggested a lack of publication bias.Conclusions. Our meta-analysis demonstrated that DR was significantly associated with VDR gene FokI polymorphism. However, due to the relatively small sample size in this meta-analysis, further studies with a larger sample size should be done to confirm the findings.

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Gender Wise Distribution of Income Using L-Moments Method

Communication Society and Media ◽

10.22158/csm.v2n1p29 ◽

2019 ◽

Vol 2 (1) ◽

pp. 29

Author(s):

Muhammad Alam ◽

Saeed Ullah Jan ◽

Alam Zeb

Keyword(s):

Income Distribution ◽

Sample Size ◽

Small Sample Size ◽

Small Sample ◽

Parameters Estimation ◽

Large Sample Size ◽

Unknown Parameters ◽

Moments Method ◽

L Moments ◽

Distribution Of Income

<em>The main purpose of this work is to explore the income distribution of both male and female in Pakistan over the period of 2010-2011. For this purpose, the lognormal distribution with known parameters is used as a model and its unknown parameters are estimated by three methods that are likelihood, moments and L-moments. The results show that citizens of Pakistan are not equal in income and the probability plot suggested that the income of the male is greater than that of a female in Pakistan. Moreover, for small sample size, the best method of parameters estimation is the L-moments, while, for large sample size the best method is a maximum likelihood. Findings of the study suggest that suitable policy is required to maintain equality in income distribution in the country. It will consequently reduce the gap among rich and poor and will certainly improve social welfare.</em>

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A Systematic Review with Meta-analysis of Studies Comparing Response to Experimentally-evoked Pain Between Obese and Non-Obese Individuals

The Open Pain Journal ◽

10.2174/1876386301811010001 ◽

2018 ◽

Vol 11 (1) ◽

pp. 1-11

Author(s):

Rehab Astita ◽

Osama A. Tashani ◽

Carole A. Paley ◽

Duncan Sharp ◽

Mark I. Johnson

Keyword(s):

Systematic Review ◽

Methodological Quality ◽

Small Sample Size ◽

Meta Analysis ◽

Pressure Pain Threshold ◽

Ideal Body Weight ◽

Small Sample ◽

Forest Plot ◽

Pressure Pain ◽

Obese Human

Background:The relationship between obesity and pain remains unclear. The aim of this systematic review was to determine whether response to experimentally-evoked pain differed between obese and non-obese individuals. Studies that compared responses to experimentally-evoked pain between obese and non-obese human participants post-puberty (i.e.>16 years) were sought. Eligible studies published between January 1950 and May 2017 were identified by searching OVID, MEDLINE, EMBASE and Science Direct.Explanation:Methodological quality of included studies was assessed using the ‘QualSyst’ questionnaire. Of 1106 references identified only nine studies (683 participants) were eligible for review. Pressure pain was assessed in five studies and electrical pain in three studies. Two studies investigated thermal pain. Obesity was categorized according to body mass index (BMI) or as weight as a percentage of ideal body weight. Six of the nine included studies were of low methodological quality. There was a lack of extractable data to pool for meta-analysis of studies using thermal or electrical pain. A forest plot of data extracted from four studies on pressure pain threshold found no differences between obese and non-obese groups (overall effect size was Z=0.57, p=0.57).Conclusion:Small sample size was the main limitation in all studies. Participants with obesity were more sensitive to mechanical noxious stimuli than non-obese participants in three of five studies. However, overall, it was not possible to determine whether there are differences in pain sensitivity response to experimental stimuli between obese and non-obese individuals.

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Socially responsible investment sukuk (Islamic bond) development in Malaysia

Qualitative Research in Financial Markets ◽

10.1108/qrfm-09-2019-0117 ◽

2020 ◽

Vol 12 (4) ◽

pp. 599-619

Author(s):

Mahfuzur Rahman ◽

Che Ruhana Isa ◽

Ginanjar Dewandaru ◽

Mohamed Hisham Hanifa ◽

Nazreen T. Chowdhury ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Sample Size ◽

Small Sample Size ◽

Socially Responsible Investment ◽

Small Sample ◽

Future Research ◽

Large Sample Size ◽

Structured Interviews ◽

Socially Responsible ◽

Content Type ◽

Responsible Investment

Purpose This study aims to explore the underlying issues related to the development of socially responsible investment (SRI) sukuk in Malaysia. It identifies factors attracting investors and issuers, as well as challenges for the development of SRI sukuk (Islamic bond) in Malaysia. Design/methodology/approach This study conducted semi-structured interviews to collect data from the institutional investors, SRI sukuk issuers and arrangers, as well as researchers. A total of 19 experts were approached in which 10 participated in the interview. The thematic analysis technique is used to report the findings. Findings This study uncovers that social contribution through business activities (i.e. investment in the education sector) is the key motivational drivers for the investors and issuers. Besides, investment risks, lack of performance measurement standards, high transaction costs, risks of return, shortage of enough Islamic bonds, investors’ confidence and lack of awareness are the major challenges for the development of SRI sukuk instruments. Research limitations/implications Due to the challenges in finding experts on this subject matter, this study was able to manage only 10 interviews from the participants, which is a small sample size. However, the findings of this study cannot be ignored. Future research should carry out with a large sample size (i.e. at least 30 interviews) to validate the current findings. Originality/value This study is among the pioneer in Malaysia, which explores the influencing factors of selecting Islamic bonds as an investment option. This paper provides some valuable implications for investors through discovering the challenges for the growth of SRI sukuk in Malaysia, which can also be applicable in a global setting.

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Cephalometric Norms Among Qatari Females

European Journal of Medical and Health Sciences ◽

10.24018/ejmed.2020.2.3.335 ◽

2020 ◽

Vol 2 (3) ◽

Author(s):

Hayder Abdallah Hashim ◽

Najah AL-Sayed ◽

Ayah AL-Qaisi

Keyword(s):

Sample Size ◽

Small Sample Size ◽

Small Sample ◽

Large Sample Size ◽

Mean Values ◽

Nasolabial Angle ◽

Vertical Relationship ◽

Oral And Maxillofacial Surgeon ◽

Age Range ◽

Lower Incisors

Aims: The aims of this study were to introduce cephalometric norms for Qatari females and compare the result with previous published reports. Material and method: The sample consisted of 57 cephalographs with age range 18 to 25 years old. All subjects satisfied the criteria of selection. Cephalometric measurements of Qatari females were then compared with Eastman Standard norms and Arabs studies as well as reports conducted among Oriental and Black races. Results: The result indicates that Qatari females presented with higher mean values of sagittal and vertical relationship compared to Caucasian cephalometric norms. In terms of dental variables proclined upper and lower incisors in relation to their dental bases, and a reduction in inter-incisal angle. The soft tissue variables indicate that the lips were slightly protrusive in relation to Rickett’s esthetic line, and the nasolabial angle was less obtuse. The bimaxillary proclination and protrusion of the upper and lower incisors were existed in all Arab populations as well as in Black and Oriental races whereas the Caucasian had retrusive dentition. Conclusion: Due to limitation of the present study, it is difficult to draw a solid conclusion due to small sample size. Hence, large sample size is recommended for both sexes in order to establish cephalometric norms which will be of great help not only to the orthodontist but also to the oral and maxillofacial surgeon as well as the pedodontist.

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Identification of point mutation in Exon 2 of MBL1 gene and its relationship with Somatic Cell Score (SCS) in Sahiwal cattle

Indian Journal of Animal Research ◽

10.18805/ijar.b-3483 ◽

2017 ◽

Author(s):

Kamaldeep Kamaldeep ◽

Ankit Magotra ◽

B. L. Pander ◽

Manjeet Manjeet ◽

B. S. Malik ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Sample Size ◽

Somatic Cell ◽

Point Mutation ◽

Small Sample Size ◽

Small Sample ◽

Somatic Cell Score ◽

Large Sample Size ◽

Production Traits ◽

Exon 2 ◽

Pcr Rflp

Mannose-binding lectin (MBL) is one of the most important constituent and a pattern recognition molecule of the innate immune system. MBL gene possibly contributes to bacterial infection resistance and was proposed as a molecular marker for milk production traits to control mastitis. Due to its location near to QTLs associated with Somatic cell score (SCS) and mastitis , the MBL1 gene may be considered as a candidate gene. Sahiwal cows in milk were selected randomly to identify g.2686T>C point mutation in exon 2 of MBL1 gene and its association with somatic cell score. A 401 bp PCR fragment of MBL1 gene encompassing the exon 2 was amplified and digested with Hae III to screen the reported SNP. Genotype analysis using PCR-RFLP revealed a polymorphic banding pattern. Sequencing was also carried out to validate the PCR-RFLP results of nucleotide sequence in a particular region. The preliminary information obtained from the study indicated that the targeted variantof MBL1 gene in indigenous cattle had no association with SCS and mastitis resistance which may be a breed specific characteristic. Since present study has formulated the results based on a relatively small sample size, further studies with large sample size are required to validate these results.

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Uncertainty Evaluation Study of CMM Dynamic Measurement Based on Quasi Monte Carlo Method

Applied Mechanics and Materials ◽

10.4028/www.scientific.net/amm.103.366 ◽

2011 ◽

Vol 103 ◽

pp. 366-371 ◽

Cited By ~ 2

Author(s):

Wei Hong Zhong ◽

Xiu Shui Ma ◽

Ying Dao Li ◽

Yuan Li

Keyword(s):

Monte Carlo ◽

Sample Size ◽

Small Sample Size ◽

Dynamic Measurement ◽

Small Sample ◽

Uncertainty Evaluation ◽

Effective Diameter ◽

Large Sample Size ◽

Quasi Monte Carlo ◽

Measuring Machine

In a contact measurement process, the coordinate measuring machine（CMM）probe will bring dynamic measurement error, therefore, dynamic calibration of the probe tip effective diameter should to be done at different probing speeds, and calibration uncertainty should to be given. There are some problems, slow convergence and unstable, using Monte Carlo (MC) method in uncertainty. In this paper, Quasi Monte Carlo (QMC) method is presented in the probe tip effective diameter uncertainty evaluation. At a certain positioning speed and distance approximation, probe tip effective diameter experimental tests are done with changing probing speeds. MC and QMC methods are used on uncertainty evaluation respectively, and the results are compared and analyzed. The simulation shows that QMC can be used on dynamic uncertainty evaluation of CMM probe tip. Compared with MC, QMC obtains a better stability and precision in small sample size and gains higher computing speed in large sample size.显示对应的拉丁字符的拼音字典名词 assessment动词 assessevaluatepass judgment

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