Inconsistent Effects Research Articles

Invasion success of three cool‐season grasses in the northern prairie: a test of three hypotheses

Empirical invasion ecology is laden with high context dependency. If general mechanisms underlying invasion success exist, they should be detectable in species that share biological and ecological characteristics. We carried out a growth experiment with Agropyron cristatum, Bromus inermis and Poa pratensis (subsp. angustifolia), to better understand the mechanisms underlying the invasion success of cool‐season grasses in northern prairie grasslands of North America. By using a home–away approach, we tested whether 1) non‐native plants have a higher performance than native plants, and whether invasiveness is 2) mediated by interactions with soils, such as a release from pathogens or enhanced mutualism, or 3) an adaptation to local soils. We compared seed size and weight of populations in Canada (non‐native range) and Eurasia (native range) and carried out an experiment, in which seeds from the non‐native and native ranges were planted into sterilized soil (control) and soil from a population in Canada or Eurasia, or local soils, respectively. We found inconsistent effects across species and response variables. Seed size and weight were not significantly different between native and non‐native populations. The experiment showed a seed origin effect in A. cristatum (root and total biomass) and B. inermis (root biomass), with non‐native populations outperforming native ones. Soil‐mediated effects were supported in A. cristatum (root biomass) and local adaptation in B. inermis (root and total biomass). Germination across all species and biomass in P. pratensis did not respond to treatments. Despite the high similarity of our study group, our results indicate that invasiveness might be driven by idiosyncratic causes at the species level. Mechanisms not considered in our study, such as high propagule pressure and preadaptation could also potentially explain the invasion success across species.

Adaptive aspects of maximizing in times of COVID-19: coping efforts linking maximization to well-being.

Maximization, the tendency to make the best choices by thoroughly searching and comparing alternatives, has long been considered a negative correlate of well-being. However, recently, it was proposed that having a maximizing tendency can lead to better coping efforts in some stressful situations and thus could be more adaptive. The objective of the present research was to demonstrate positive features of maximization and identify the coping strategies that mediate the relationship between maximization and well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic. A sample of 3,493 participants responded to an online survey from January 20 to October 11 of 2020. The 13-item Maximization Scale assessed individuals' maximizing tendency in terms of the maximization index and its three subdimensions (i.e., high standards, alternative search, and decision difficulty). The use of four coping strategies (i.e., preventive measures, cognitive appraisal, self-distraction, and social connection) during the COVID-19 pandemic was assessed. Hedonic and eudaimonic aspects of well-being were measured. We developed a mediation model and examined both whether there was an indirect link between maximization and well-being through the coping strategies and whether there was a direct link between maximization and well-being. Path analysis revealed negative direct associations between maximization measures (i.e., an index and three subdimensions) and well-being. In addition, significant indirect paths were found with varying directions depending on maximization dimensions and coping strategy types. There were positive indirect associations between the maximization index and well-being via preventive measures, between high standards and well-being through preventive measures and cognitive appraisal, and between alternative search and well-being through self-distraction and social connection. Negative indirect associations were found between decision difficulty and well-being through cognitive appraisal, self-distraction, and social connection. The current study confirmed the existence of inconsistent mediation effects between maximization and well-being via coping and highlighted coping efforts as one of the positive aspects of maximization. Discussion addressed the double-edged effect of maximization on well-being and its beneficial nature in times of distress. Future studies should examine other potential situations and moderators that can delineate maximization's various characteristics with a longitudinal design and samples from diverse backgrounds.

Dynamic responses in Pseudomonas stutzeri M3 bioaugmentation of crude-oil-contaminated soil: Hydrocarbons, microbial community structures, and functional genes

Bioaugmentation is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly method for dealing with hazardous pollutants. However, bioaugmentation has some drawbacks, including poor bioactivities, inconsistent effects, and uncontrollability. Understanding the inter-relationships between actual microbial communities and various petroleum hydrocarbon components remains a key challenge for effective and efficient decontamination in oilfield soil. Here, dynamic changes of reconstructed PIONA (paraffins, iso-paraffins, olefins, naphthenes, and aromatics) fractions and microbial community structures were investigated in a 60-day laboratory-scale experiment with exogenous Pseudomonas stutzeri M3 supplementation. The results showed that effective biodegradation occurred between the 15th and 30th days of bioaugmentation, and the biodegradation efficiency of paraffin reached 96.5% after 60 days in 1% oil-contaminated soil. Moreover, supplementation with strain M3 significantly altered the microbial community structures, promoting the enrichment of Balneolaceae, Halolalama, and Woeserchaeia, while delaying the colonization of Alcanivorax. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) showed that the positive interactions between hub bacteria were more significant than the negative interactions and revealed the synergistic degradation of petroleum constituents. The abundance of alcohol dehydrogenase, aldehyde dehydrogenase, catechol cleavage enzyme, cytochrome P450, gentisate dioxygenase, and benzoate/toluate dioxygenase increased abruptly in the initial 7 days with the inoculation of strain M3. This study provides insights into the inner mechanisms of petroleum hydrocarbon metabolism under the combined action of exogenous and indigenous microbes in oilfield soil.

Characterization and optimization of 5´ untranslated region containing poly-adenine tracts in Kluyveromyces marxianus using machine-learning model

BackgroundThe 5´ untranslated region (5´ UTR) plays a key role in regulating translation efficiency and mRNA stability, making it a favored target in genetic engineering and synthetic biology. A common feature found in the 5´ UTR is the poly-adenine (poly(A)) tract. However, the effect of 5´ UTR poly(A) on protein production remains controversial. Machine-learning models are powerful tools for explaining the complex contributions of features, but models incorporating features of 5´ UTR poly(A) are currently lacking. Thus, our goal is to construct such a model, using natural 5´ UTRs from Kluyveromyces marxianus, a promising cell factory for producing heterologous proteins.ResultsWe constructed a mini-library consisting of 207 5´ UTRs harboring poly(A) and 34 5´ UTRs without poly(A) from K. marxianus. The effects of each 5´ UTR on the production of a GFP reporter were evaluated individually in vivo, and the resulting protein abundance spanned an approximately 450-fold range throughout. The data were used to train a multi-layer perceptron neural network (MLP-NN) model that incorporated the length and position of poly(A) as features. The model exhibited good performance in predicting protein abundance (average R2 = 0.7290). The model suggests that the length of poly(A) is negatively correlated with protein production, whereas poly(A) located between 10 and 30 nt upstream of the start codon (AUG) exhibits a weak positive effect on protein abundance. Using the model as guidance, the deletion or reduction of poly(A) upstream of 30 nt preceding AUG tended to improve the production of GFP and a feruloyl esterase. Deletions of poly(A) showed inconsistent effects on mRNA levels, suggesting that poly(A) represses protein production either with or without reducing mRNA levels.ConclusionThe effects of poly(A) on protein production depend on its length and position. Integrating poly(A) features into machine-learning models improves simulation accuracy. Deleting or reducing poly(A) upstream of 30 nt preceding AUG tends to enhance protein production. This optimization strategy can be applied to enhance the yield of K. marxianus and other microbial cell factories.

Effect of Inconsistency in Perceiving Macro-Roughness of Virtual Texture on Real Object

Effect of Inconsistency in Perceiving Macro-Roughness of Virtual Texture on Real Object

ICT-Based or -Assisted Mathematics Learning and Numerical Literacy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Numerous empirical studies related to the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in mathematics learning for enhancing numerical literacy have been increasingly carried out in three last decades. Of those studies, however, it can be stated that ICT-based or -assisted mathematics learning has an inconsistent effect on numerical literacy. Consequently, this recent study aims to examine the effectiveness of ICT-based or -assisted mathematics learning on numerical literacy skills, and several substantial factors in differentiating students’ numerical literacy. A systematic review combined to meta-analysis was performed to carry out this study whereby 53 documents published in the period of 2001–2023 were involved as the data. Overall, those documents generated 64 units of effect size and 6,599 students. Some tests, such as Z, Q Cochrane, fill & trim, and funnel plot were used to analyze the data. The results of this current study reported that ICT-based or -assisted mathematics learning had positive moderate effect (g = 0.527; p < 0.05) on students’ numerical literacy, and significantly enhanced students’ numerical literacy. Additionally, educational level, learning environment, intervention duration, and instrument type were significant factors in differentiating students’ numerical literacy. Meanwhile, there was no sufficient evidence to state that other substantial factors, such class capacity, participant, technology used, mathematical content, and technology role significantly affected students’ heterogeneous numerical literacy. This study suggests mathematics educator, such as teacher and lecturer to integrate ICT in mathematics learning, especially in enhancing numerical literacy. Moreover, they have to consider some factors, such as educational level, learning environment, intervention duration, and instrument type in performing ICT-based or -assisted mathematics lesson, mainly in cultivating students’ numerical literacy.

Feasibility of an exergaming training program in type 2 diabetes mellitus: A mixed method study.

Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus may benefit from exergaming training. Exergaming, technology-driven physical activities requiring participants to be physically active or exercise to play the game, allows combining cognitive with motor training. This trial aimed to primarily evaluate the feasibility of an exergame-based training protocol. Secondarily, possible effects on physical, functional, and patient-reported outcomes were explored. Type 2 diabetic individuals performed an exergaming protocol on a pressure sensitive platform. After a 6-week control period, training was administered 2-3 times weekly for another six weeks for 30-60 minutes per session. Outcome variables were assessed during baseline (T0), pre-intervention (T1) and twice at postintervention (T1 and T2). An interview after completion ended the study program. Feasibility was determined by recruitment, adherence, compliance, attrition rates, motivation, satisfaction, and technology acceptance. Eleven of 13 participants completed the study protocol. The feasibility criteria adherence-mandatory (86.4%), adherence-voluntary (70.2%), compliance (99.7%), attrition (15.4%) rate, motivation (82%), satisfaction (80%), and technology acceptance (62.5%) were all deemed acceptable, except for the recruitment rate (13.7%). There were inconsistent effects on functional outcomes, appraisal of diabetes, and health-related quality of life. Qualitative patient-reported experience was overall positive, which is in line with the quantitative results. The exergame-based training program is feasible and safe and type 2 diabetic participants' acceptance of this approach was high, although the recruitment procedure needs minor changes. Furthermore, results were obtained that might be useful in selecting appropriate assessments and sample sizes in future trials.

A Qualitative Study on Perspectives of Parkinson's Disease Medications: Insights from Patient Focus Groups.

Medication is an important component of the management of Parkinson's disease (PD), yet few studies investigate factors that inform medication decision-making from the perspective of those who use these therapies. This qualitative study aimed to better understand the medication experiences and perspectives of people with PD (PwPD). Thirty-two PwPD recruited from five large movement disorder clinics from five US states participated in 1-hour on-line focus groups in 2022. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. Four primary themes (subthemes in parentheses) emerged concerning PD medications: (1) medication effectiveness (uncertainty, inconsistent effects, adjusting expectations); (2) medication burden (morning doses, timing challenges, constant reminder); (3) side effects (toleration, treatment, confusion with disease symptoms); and (4) preferences/requests (important attributes, therapy advancement). This study identified four core dimensions associated with PD medications from the perspective of PwPD. Results indicate the need for enhanced communication between providers and patients regarding PD medication to reduce the uncertainties and burden associated with PD medication regimens and promote better health outcomes for PwPD.

The short-term impact of occlusal splints on the expression of temporomandibular dysfunctions (pilot study)

Introduction. Temporomandibular dysfunctions are frequently encountered in clinical dental practice, with a significant impact on the functionality of the stomatognathic system and quality of life. The rehabilitation of patients with temporomandibular dysfunction requires conservative, minimally invasive treatments, with a central objective of improving the dysfunctional symptoms. As a first-line treatment, occlusal splints are often indicated — devices with high efficiency (70-90%), but the therapeutic mechanisms and their primary effects in the short term are still not elucidated. Aim of the study: Evaluation of the short-term impact of treatment with occlusal splints on the objective and subjective level of expression of temporomandibular disorders. Results: The impact of the reversible occlusal treatment on the structure of the clinical picture in the short term (1 month of treatment) was varied, attesting to the statistically significant reduction of the mean values regarding the clinical indices of TMD expression (comfortable mouth opening amplitude, the number of joint sites /sensitive muscles, pain intensity) and subjective (perceived level of functional limitation). Conclusion: The overall analysis demonstrates impact trends of statistically significant amelioration for the studied symptoms, but the individual analysis of the cases demonstrates that the treatment with splints has an inconsistent effect per signs/symptoms, which highlights the need for studies over longer periods of time and with a wider range of clinical indices.

FedSTS: A Stratified Client Selection Framework for Consistently Fast Federated Learning.

In this article, we investigate random client selection in the context of horizontal federated learning (FL), whereby only a randomly selected subset of clients transmit their model updates to the server instead of yielding all clients involved. Many researchers have demonstrated that clustering-based client selection constitutes a simple yet efficacious approach to the identification of those clients possessing representative gradient information. Despite the extensive body of research on modified selection methodologies, the majority of prior work is predicated upon the assumption of consistently effective clustering. However, raw gradient-based clustering methods are subject to several challenges: 1) poor effectiveness, the raw high-dimensional gradient of a client is too complex to serve as an appropriate feature for grouping, resulting in large intra-cluster distances and 2) fluctuating effectiveness, due to inherent limitations in clustering, the effectiveness can vary significantly, leading to clusters with diverse levels of heterogeneity. In practice, suboptimal and inconsistent clustering effects can result in clusters with low intra-cluster similarity among clients. The selection of clients from such clusters may impede the overall convergence of training. In this article, we propose, a novel client selection scheme to accelerate the FL convergence by variance reduction. The main idea of is to stratify a compressed model update in order to ensure an excellent grouping effect, and at the same time reduce the cross-client variance by re-allocating the sample chance among different groups based on their diverse heterogeneity. It strikes this convergence acceleration by paying more attention to those client groups with relatively low similarity and then improving the representativeness of the selected subset as much as possible. Theoretically, we demonstrate the critical improvement of the proposed scheme in variance reduction and present equivalence conditions among different client selection methods. We also present the tighter convergence guarantee of the proposed method thanks to the variance reduction. Experimental results confirm the exceeded efficiency of our approach compared to alternatives.

Optimizing Radiofrequency Exposure Parameters for One-Pass Drying of High-Moisture Paddy Rice

Highlights The utilization of standardized Radiofrequency (RF) exposure parameters ensures safety and process consistency. Equations were used to estimate Power Density (S), Specific Absorption Rate (SAR), and Electric Field Intensity (E). One-pass RF drying effectively lowered paddy rice (Cultivar [cv.] XL-753) initial Moisture Content (MC; 20.4% w.b.) to safe levels (=13.5% w.b.) with SARAdjusted of 1.87 × 106 J, E of 46.82 V/m, and S of 300,000 W/m² (6,000 W/kg). Higher SARAdjusted values impacted paddy rice surface lipid content and milling yields, while minor changes in color and viscosity showed inconsistent and subtle practical effects. Abstract. Radiofrequency (RF) heating utilizes high-frequency electromagnetic waves to induce heat within materials via molecular friction. This method offers rapid, even heating, deep penetration, and energy efficiency. Nevertheless, there is a dearth of research on RF exposure parameters concerning food processing. Investigating these parameters is crucial for RF process optimization, setting safety guidelines, and guaranteeing product quality. This research clarifies RF exposure parameters through the one-pass drying of high moisture content (MC) long-grain paddy rice (cultivar [cv.] XL-753) at an initial MC of 20.4% wet basis (w.b.) to a final of MC of = 13.5% w.b. (safe MC for storage). The specific objectives of this research were to: 1. Advocate the utilization of standardized RF exposure parameters (Specific Absorption Rate, SAR; Electric Field Intensity, E; and Power Density, S) of food and agricultural products, aiming to simplify RF processing, fostering consistency and safety in operations. 2. Estimate the RF exposure parameters associated with the one-pass RF drying process. 3. Determine the RF exposure parameters’ influence on rice physicochemical attributes of Milled Rice Yield (MRY), Head Rice Yield (HRY), Color Parameters (L* a* b*), Surface Lipid Content (SLC), and Pasting Properties. Using a pilot-scale parallel-plate RF heating system (6 kW, 27.12 MHz) with a 105 mm product-to-emitter gap, RF exposure parameters were determined: E = 46.82 V/m; EEff = 33.11 V/m; S = 300,000 W/m²; SAR = 2,224.95 W/kg. Rice samples underwent RF exposure durations of 360, 600, and 840 s, resulting in SARAdjusted levels of 0.80 × 106, 1.33 × 106, and 1.87 × 106 J, respectively. Half of the RF-processed paddy rice underwent tempering, which involved immediately transferring paddy rice after RF treatments into sealed glass jars and then into an incubator set to a constant temperature of 60°C for a duration of 4 h. RF processed samples at the highest SARAdjusted tested (1.87 × 106 J) followed by tempering resulted in MC reductions of 6.7% pt. w.b., final MC of 14.0% w.b., MRY, HRY, and SLC of 70.80%, 47.38%, and 0.47%, respectively. Non-tempered samples at the same SARAdjusted level had MC reductions of 7.34% pt. w.b., final MC of 13.1% w.b., MRY, HRY, and SLC of 60.91%, 4.53%, and 0.43%. Tempering and SARAdjusted values slightly affected rice physicochemical characteristics of color and viscosity. However, the differences were minor and inconsistent. To ensure optimal quality in large-scale RF drying of rice, it is crucial to avoid SARAdjusted levels exceeding 1.33 × 106 J. Exceeding this threshold has been shown to cause overheating, adversely impacting the grain’s quality. Moreover, implementing a tempering process post-drying is also essential in mitigating these detrimental effects. Keywords: Color, Electric field intensity (E), Lipids, Milling yields, Power density (S), Radio-frequency (RF), Rice drying, Specific absorption rate (SAR), Viscosity.

Evaluation of Formulated Herbal Toothpaste Containing Aloe Vera Gel and Extracted Calcium Carbonate from The Shell of Buccinum Undatum (Whelk Snail)

Prevalence of tooth decay in individuals attributes to bacterial buildup in the mouth and inconsistent effectiveness of certain commercial toothpastes and this has prompted the formulation of herbal toothpaste. The formulation is crafted with diverse bases to address gingivitis, dental caries and plaque, hence the toothpaste consist of intricate blends of abrasives, surfactants, anticaries agents, tartar control elements, pH buffers, humectants and binders ensuring consistency, shape and product stability. The herbal toothpaste formulation was prepared, incorporating aloe vera and calcium carbonate extract from the shell of Buccinum undatum. The focus of the composition aims to investigate the antimicrobial potential of the actives (aloe vera and calcium carbonate) in the toothpaste using cultures of S. aureus, P. aeruginosa and K.pneumoniae (prevalent micro organisms in the oral cavity) and comparing with a reference standard ( Colgate toothpaste). Utilizing the hot liquid phase technology, the toothpaste was formulated, and then evaluated. The Physicochemical evaluation studies reveals the formulation to have such characteristics as pH-10, good foamability and abrasiveness, spreadability of 5.5 gcms-¹, viscosity-4600 cP and appreciable stability. Anti microbial studies indicated notable zone of inhibition for the selected organisms as: K.pneumoniae – 5.5 mm and P. aeruginosa – 5.0 mm with no effect on S.aureus. The formulated herbal toothpaste consisting of aloe vera and extracted calcium carbonate was observed to display appreciable antimicrobial and abrasive properties hence further study is required to enhance its acceptable application for potential oral effects, and consideration for long term public dental health use.

An investigation on the effects of different types of odours on stress level of high school students when studying

In view of the mental health issues among adolescents in Singapore, aromatherapy is proposed to mitigate their stress level when studying. An experiment was conducted both in the classroom and home setting, to test the effectiveness of the give odours, lavender, rosemary, ylang-ylang, lemon and bergamot on reducing stress level, using the no odour scenario as control. Objective data (SpO2, heart rate and stress score) is collected using the HUAWEI Band 6 smartwatch. Subjective data was self-reported by the participants through Google forms, rating their emotional health on a 10-point scale and elaborating in prose. It was found that the anti-anxiety effects of the stimulants (lemon, bergamot, rosemary) were much larger than that of the sedatives (lavender, ylang-ylang). In particular, lemon showed the best objective anxiolytic effect, while bergamot was the best in terms of self-perceived effect. Rosemary relieved stress through raising productivity, but some effects of overworking were observed. On the other hand, ylang-ylang showed inconsistent effects, while lavender was not suitable to relieve stress when studying.

Metabolic status, reproductive, and productive performances of transition dairy cows as affected by dietary rumen-protected choline supplementation.

Research articles about the effects of rumen-protected choline (RPC) supplementation on metabolic response, and reproductive and productive performances in transitional dairy cows were reviewed and presented. Analysis was conducted on 32 research papers that were published. The papers examined treatments without RPC supplementation and RPC supplementation levels varying from 10 to 100 gm/day. The feeding duration of RPC started from 40 to 140 days prepartum and continued until 20 to 140 days postpartum in multiparous dairy cows. Studies indicated that adding herbal choline (Cho) to the diet of transition dairy cows resulted in increased milk production and improved milk quality, leading to enhanced energy balance and reduced oxidative stress. The concentration and yield of IgG in colostrum provide passive immunity to dairy newborns and can be enhanced by dietary Cho supplementation. The inconsistent effects of RPC supplementation on reproduction may be due to several factors such as heat stress, genetics, and management. RPC supplementation improved the transition dairy cows' milk yield and quality, but dosage response was not observed as in the prior publication. Remarkably, the length of RPC supplementation had a positive correlation with an increase in milk yield. Based on this review, 45-50 gm/day dietary RPC supplementation between 3 weeks pre-calving to 8 weeks post-calving is suggested to increase at least 10% milk yield in dairy cows.

Enhancing Spatial Visualization in CABRI 3D-Assisted Geometry Learning: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Empirical studies related to the enhancement of spatial visualization by implementing CABRI 3D-assisted geometry lesson have been increasingly conducted in two last decade. Nevertheless, from these studies, it can be said that an inconsistent effect of CABRI 3D-assisted geometry lesson toward spatial visualization and a gap of students’ spatial visualization are really existing. The aim of this present study is to examine the effectiveness of CABRI 3D-assisted geometry learning on spatial visualization, and some substantial factors in affecting the difference of students’ spatial visualization skills. A systematic review using meta-analysis was performed to conduct this recent study in which the random effect model was selected to estimate the effect size computed by the Hedges’ equation. 25 eligible documents published between 2008 and 2022 were included as the data whereby these documents generated 36 effect sizes and involved 2,440 students. Several tests, such as Z, Q Cochrane, fill and trim, and funnel plot were performed to analyze the data. Results of this current study showed that the utilization of CABRI 3D software for teaching geometry lesson had positive moderate effect (g = 0.778; p ˂ 0.05), and significantly enhanced students’ spatial visualization. Additionally, the investigation on some substantial factors revealed that intervention duration and class capacity were significant factors affecting the gap of spatial visualization of students while educational level and participant did not differentiate spatial visualization of students. This recent study implies that mathematics practitioners can utilize this software to teach geometry lesson, and consider small class for class capacity and more than 3 months for intervention duration in implementing it to enhance spatial visualization of students.

Behavioural response of benthic elasmobranchs to a neodymium magnet under controlled laboratory conditions

Global elasmobranch population decline can be largely attributed to anthropogenic impacts such as commercial fishing. As such, reducing bycatch of these animals is a key management objective in many fisheries. Magnetic deterrents such as permanent and rare-earth magnets can deter both pelagic and benthic elasmobranch species. However, the literature is inconsistent and shows varied levels of effectiveness depending on the species and the deterrent. To broaden our understanding of species-specific differences in deterrent effectiveness, this study assessed the efficacy of a rare-earth magnet to deter four benthic elasmobranchs under laboratory conditions: Port Jackson shark (Heterodontus portusjacksoni; n = 10), epaulette shark (Hemiscyllium ocellatum; n = 8), eastern fiddler ray (Trygonorrhina fasciata; n = 10), and the blue spotted mask ray (Neotrygon kuhlii; n = 7). After evaluating the behavioural response of the four study species in the presence of a N52 neodymium magnet and a control in 207 trials, the neodymium magnet did not effectively prevent individuals from entering an experimental compartment. The magnet only had a minor deterrent effect, slightly reducing the proportion of successful attempts at entry through the door and over the neodymium magnet (control: 0.94 ± 0.23; neodymium magnet: 0.74 ± 0.3; mean ± standard deviation). We hypothesised this was a result of species-specific biological and behavioural factors that reduce the effectiveness of magnets as deterrents for these species. Our results suggest fisheries management moves away from trialling magnets as elasmobranch deterrents due to their inconsistent effectiveness, and rather investigate other devices such as those using electrical fields that show greater potential.

Effects of individually optimized rocker midsoles and self-adjusting insoles on plantar pressure in persons with diabetes mellitus and loss of protective sensation

IntroductionRocker shoes and insoles reduce peak pressure (PP) in persons with diabetes (DM) and loss of protective sensation (LOPS). However, they are handmade, leading to inconsistent effectiveness. If foot structure changes over time, high PP-locations also change. To address this, individualized algorithm based 3D-printed rockers and self-adjusting pressure-reducing insoles are applied. MethodsPP across seven foot regions was analyzed in 21 persons with DM and LOPS. Regions with PP < 200 kPa were considered not at risk (RnoR); regions with PP ≥ 200 kPa at risk (RaR). The aim was to offload RaR, while remaining PP < 200 kPa in RnoR. ResultsIndividualized rockers and self-adjusting insoles combined successfully reduce PP < 200 kPa (on average 24 % - 48 %) in all feet with toes, central and lateral forefoot identified as RaR. Same intervention reduces PP in 68 % of the feet with medial forefoot identified as RaR. With the heel as RaR, no intervention reduces PP successfully in all feet. ConclusionsIndividualized 3D-printed rockers combined with self-adjusting insoles reduce PP (< 200 kPa) in toes, central and lateral forefoot, but not in heels. Alternative insoles with medial arch support, heel cup and compliant midsole materials might enhance success rate across entire foot.

Biomarkers for monoclonal antibody targeting EGFR in NSCLC: Challenges, current status, and future perspectives

Targeting EGFR has a long history in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It was around the 2000s that it was reported that EGFR protein expression increased with bronchial dysplasia in high-risk smokers and patients with lung cancer. However, EGFR inhibitors were not effective in unselected patients with advanced NSCLC. After the identification of sensitizing EGFR mutations, tyrosine kinase inhibitors became the cornerstone of treatment for patients with EGFR-mutated NSCLC. However, other drugs were developed to target EGFR in the EGFR-wild type population, such as monoclonal antibodies. Cetuximab is an anti-EGFR monoclonal antibody, and has been a focus over the past two decades. Though not approved in NSCLC due to marginal and inconsistent effects in phase 3 trials, research aimed to discover biomarkers to identify a subgroup of the population that might benefit. This includes a composite score that evaluates histology, immunohistochemistry, and gene copy amplification. This article reviews the history of the development and discontinuation of monoclonal antibodies in NSCLC and discusses the role of biomarkers in the treatment of advanced EGFR-wild type NSCLC.

Pharmacokinetics of Long-Acting Methylphenidate: Formulation Differences, Bioequivalence, Interchangeability.

A literature search was conducted in EMBASE, Medline, and Cochrane Library with no time limits. Study characteristics, non-compartmental pharmacokinetic parameters, and bioequivalence data were extracted for analysis. Thirty-three studies were identified with primary pharmacokinetic data after the administration of ER MPH, of which 10 were direct comparative studies (i.e., at least 2 formulations tested within a single setting) and 23 were indirect comparisons (i.e., different experimental settings). Two formulations were consistently reported as bioequivalent across the regulatory bodies using criteria from their guidance documents, although inconsistencies have been observed. However, when additional kinetic criteria (discussed in this manuscript) were imposed, only one study met the more stringent definition of bioequivalence. Various clinical factors also had inconsistent effects on the pharmacokinetics and interchangeability of the different formulations, which were associated with a lack of standardization for assessing covariates across the regulatory agencies. Additional pharmacokinetic parameters and consistency in guidelines across the regulatory bodies may improve bioequivalence assessments. Based on our findings, more research is also required to understand whether bioequivalence is an appropriate measure for determining MPH interchangeability. This critical review is suitable for formulation scientists, clinical pharmacologists, and clinicians.

Second-hand sailboat price assessment based on ANOVA

As a luxury, the price of second-hand sailing will vary with the changes of years and markets, and its price may be affected by many factors, such as regional differences, various characteristics of sailing and the year of production of sailing. In order to determine the dominant factors affecting sailing prices and explain the changes of sailing prices, Spearman correlation analysis is used. Multivariate linear regression model is established to analyze and determine the weight of the indicators affecting the sailing, and finally get a formula to explain the sailing price. Based on the price model of sailing using ridge regression, ANOVA was used to further determine the effect of regions on different variants of sailing.Considering the consistent effects of different regions on the same variable, a two-way ANOVA was used to identify the inconsistent effects of different regions on different navigation variables.Finally, according to the results of variance analysis, it was found that the price of second-hand sailing varied significantly in different regions, and through two-way variance analysis, there was no consistency between different sailing variants.