Friedman Test Research Articles

Impact of hospital-community diabetes management intervention in Central Region, Ghana: A retrospective study

ObjectiveEffective diabetes management remains suboptimal in low-resourced countries including Ghana. We determined the effectiveness of hospital-community link diabetes management intervention on glycaemic control and other outcomes. MethodsA retrospective study design, using secondary data from the Ghana-Netherlands for Health Foundation diabetes programme. The z-test was used for proportions, to compare parameters between baseline (2017) and endpoint (2022). The Friedman test was used to assess changes in blood glucose levels, and the multivariable Logistic regression to identify factors associated with blood glucose control. ResultsAnalyses of 251 clinical records showed decline in median blood glucose levels across six years from 8.8 mmol/L (7.2–12.9) in 2017 to 6.5 mmol/L (5.7–7.2) (p = 0.001) in 2022, recording 43 % increase in patients attaining glycaemic control in 2022 (p = 0.001). The Friedman test showed significant reduction in glucose levels (χ2 = 319.2, p = 0.001), with an effect size of 0.25 using the Kendall test. The logistic regression analyses revealed that patients on metformin and Glibenclamide combination were more likely to achieve glycaemic control than those on metformin monotherapy (adjusted OR = 7.30, 95 % CI 2.31–23.01, p = 0.001). ConclusionThe intervention achieved significant reduction in blood glucose levels. Patients with diabetes benefit from the hospital-community link diabetes management intervention regarding glycaemic control.

Effect of Disinfection Protocols on Bacterial Reduction in Mandibular Molars.

Evaluate the bacterial reduction effect of disinfection protocols used in lower molars infected by Enterococcus faecalis. Eighty extracted lower molars were prepared and inoculated with E. faecalis for 2 months. The teeth were then distributed into 2 control groups (n = 4) and 4 experimental groups (n = 18) in function of the disinfection protocol utilized: G1. WaveOne Gold (WOG), passive ultrasonic irrigation (PUI) and Ultracal; G2. WOG, PUI and calcium hydroxide (CH); G3. WOG, XP-Endo Finisher (XPF) and Ultracal; G4. WOG, XPF and CH. Bacteriological samples were collected previously (S1), after preparation (S2), final agitation (S3) and intracanal dressing (S4). Microbial growth was assessed according to culture turbidity and UV spectrophotometry. Statistical analyses used the Friedman test for paired samples and Kruskal-Wallis test for non-paired data (p<0.05). No protocol eliminated E. faecalis effectively. The S2, S3 and S4 samples were statistically different from the S1 samples in G1, G2, G3 and G4 (p<0.05). Statistical differences were observed in bacterial reduction between G1 and G2 and G1 and G3 after the intracanal medicament (S4) (p<0.05). The WOG + PUI + CH disinfection protocol showed higher percentages of bacterial reduction.

Optimal Solution of the Dynamic Economic Dispatch by Improved Teaching-Learning-Based Artificial Bee Colony Algorithm

Dynamic economic dispatch is one of the most handled problem in modern power system operations. It aims to optimize the output power from thermal generating units over a specified time period to minimize the total fuel cost, while satisfying the several constraints such as generation limits, ramp rate limits, and power balance. In addition to these constraints, the prohibited operating zones and the valve-point loading effect are included the DED problem. In this case, the complexity, nonlinearity, and non-convexity of the DED problem are increases. Therefore, in order to solve the DED problem, a powerful meta-heuristic search (MHS) algorithm are proposed. In this study, an improved teaching-learning-based artificial bee colony (TLABC) algorithm, where the fitness-distance balance based TLABC (FDB-TLABC) and natural-survivor method based TLABC (NSM-TLABC) algorithms were hybridized. To prove the performance of the proposed algorithm, it was applied to solve the DED problem and benchmark problem suites. In the simulation study carried out on benchmark problems, the results of the proposed algorithm and five MHS algorithms were evaluated statistically. According to Friedman test results, the proposed algorithm ranked first with 2.2836 values among them. On the other hand, the proposed algorithm and its rival algorithms were applied to solve the two DED cases. The results of them show that the proposed algorithm achieved superior performance to find the best objective values for both case studies.

Comparison of Three Commercially Available, AI-Driven Cephalometric Analysis Tools in Orthodontics.

Background: Cephalometric analysis (CA) is an indispensable diagnostic tool in orthodontics for treatment planning and outcome assessment. Manual CA is time-consuming and prone to variability. Methods: This study aims to compare the accuracy and repeatability of CA results among three commercial AI-driven programs: CephX, WebCeph, and AudaxCeph. This study involved a retrospective analysis of lateral cephalograms from a single orthodontic center. Automated CA was performed using the AI programs, focusing on common parameters defined by Downs, Ricketts, and Steiner. Repeatability was tested through 50 randomly reanalyzed cases by each software. Statistical analyses included intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC3) for agreement and the Friedman test for concordance. Results: One hundred twenty-four cephalograms were analyzed. High agreement between the AI systems was noted for most parameters (ICC3 > 0.9). Notable differences were found in the measurements of angle convexity and the occlusal plane, where discrepancies suggested different methodologies among the programs. Some analyses presented high variability in the results, indicating errors. Repeatability analysis revealed perfect agreement within each program. Conclusions: AI-driven cephalometric analysis tools demonstrate a high potential for reliable and efficient orthodontic assessments, with substantial agreement in repeated analyses. Despite this, the observed discrepancies and high variability in part of analyses underscore the need for standardization across AI platforms and the critical evaluation of automated results by clinicians, particularly in parameters with significant treatment implications.

Documenting Compliance and Symptom Reactivity for Ambulatory Assessment Methodology Following Concussion in Adolescents and Young Adults: Feasibility of the Mobile Neurocognitive Health (MNCH) Project.

Evaluate compliance, symptom reactivity, and acceptability/experience ratings for an ecological momentary assessment (EMA) protocol involving ultra-brief ambulatory cognitive assessments in adolescent and young adult patients with concussion. Outpatient concussion clinic. 116 patients aged 13 to 25years with concussion. Prospective research design was used to examine compliance, symptom reactivity, and acceptability/experience for the Mobile Neurocognitive Health Project (MNCH); an EMA study of environmental exposures, symptoms, objective cognitive functioning, and symptom reactivity involving 4, daily EMA surveys (7:30 am, 10:30 am, 3:00 pm, 8:00 pm) for a period of 7 days following concussion. Overall compliance rates, symptom reactivity scores, and participant acceptability/experience ratings were described. A series of non-parametric Friedman Tests with post-hoc Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were used to examine differences in compliance and reactivity related to time of day and over the course of the protocol (first 3 days [Early Week] vs last 4 days [Late Week]). Compliance rates, symptom reactivity scores, participant experience/acceptability. Overall median compliance was 71%, and there were significantly fewer 7:30 am surveys completed compared to the 10:30 am (Z =-4.88,P ≤.001), 3:00 pm (Z =-4.13,P ≤.001), and 8:00 pm (Z =-4.68, P ≤.001) surveys. Compliance for Early Week surveys were significantly higher than Late Week (Z =-2.16,P =.009). The median symptom reactivity score was 34.39 out of 100 and was significantly higher for Early Week compared to Late Week (Z =-4.59,P ≤.001). Ninety-nine percent (89/90) of the sample agreed that the app was easy to use, and 18% (16/90) indicated that the app interfered with their daily life. Adolescents and young adults with concussion were compliant with the MNCH EMA protocol. Symptom reactivity to the protocol was low and the majority of participants reported that the app and protocol were acceptable. These findings support further investigation into applications of EMA for use in concussion studies.

Motion robust coronary MR angiography using zigzag centric ky-kz trajectory and high-resolution deep learning reconstruction.

To develop a new MR coronary angiography (MRCA) technique by employing a zigzag fan-shaped centric ky-kz k-space trajectory combined with high-resolutiondeep learning reconstruction (HR-DLR). All imaging data were acquired from 12 healthy subjects and 2 patients using two clinical 3-T MR imagers, with institutional review board approval. Ten healthy subjects underwent both standard 3D fast gradient echo (sFGE) and centric ky-kz k-space trajectory FGE (cFGE) acquisitions to compare the scan time and image quality. Quantitative measures were also performed for signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) as well as sharpness of the vessel. Furthermore, the feasibility of the proposed cFGE sequence was assessed in two patients. For assessing the feasibility of the centric ky-kz trajectory, the navigator-echo window of a 30-mm threshold was applied in cFGE, whereas sFGE was applied using a standard 5-mm threshold. Image quality of MRCA using cFGE with HR-DLR and sFGE without HR-DLR was scored in a 5-point scale (non-diagnostic = 1, fair = 2, moderate = 3, good = 4, and excellent = 5). Image evaluation of cFGE, applying HR-DLR, was compared with sFGE without HR-DLR. Friedman test, Wilcoxon signed-rank test, or paired t tests were performed for the comparison of related variables. The actual MRCA scan time of cFGE with a 30-mm threshold was acquired in less than 5min, achieving nearly 100% efficiency, showcasing its expeditious and robustness. In contrast, sFGE was acquired with a 5-mm threshold and had an average scan time of approximately 15min. Overall image quality for MRCA was scored 3.3 for sFGE and 2.7 for cFGE without HR-DLR but increased to 3.6 for cFGE with HR-DLR and (p < 0.05). The clinical result of patients obtained within 5min showed good quality images in both patients, even with a stent, without artifacts. Quantitative measures of SNR, CNR, and sharpness of vessel presented higher in cFGE with HR-DLR. Our findings demonstrate a robust, time-efficient solution for high-quality MRCA, enhancing patient comfort and increasing clinical throughput.

Comparative Analysis of Financial Literacy and Behavioural Control on the Household Wealth of Generation Y with Special Reference to Bhavnagar

This study investigates the impact of financial literacy and behavioral control on the household wealth of Generation Y in Bhavnagar, employing a primary questionnaire method. As financial literacy becomes increasingly critical in managing personal finances and achieving financial stability, understanding its influence on wealth accumulation is essential, particularly for the younger generation facing complex financial environments. The study utilized 215 structured questionnaires distributed to a representative sample of Generation Y residents in Bhavnagar. The questionnaire covered various aspects of financial literacy, including budgeting, saving, investing, and understanding financial products, along with behavioral control metrics such as impulse buying, financial planning, and risk-taking tendencies. Data analysis involved both descriptive and inferential statistics to identify significant relationships and draw comparisons between different levels of financial literacy and behavioral control and their impact on household wealth suing Friedman test appropriate. The findings contribute to the broader understanding of personal finance management and its implications for wealth accumulation among young adults in urban area.

Local functional food: Stunting prevention in toddlers

Functional food has emerged as a potential intervention to prevent stunting in toddlers, utilizing locally available ingredients such as tempeh and clams. These foods possess several favorable attributes, including ease of accessibility, affordability, have high nutritional value and excellent digestibility in the human body. This study introduces a novel approach by formulating tempeh broth as a substitute for clam flour, aiming to improve nutritional status and prevent stunting. The primary objective was to develop tempeh broth with substituted clam flour and evaluate the impact on organoleptic properties and nutritional value. The study involved a laboratory experiment where tempeh broth was substituted with varying amounts of claims flour: 15g (P1), 30g (P2), and 45g (P3). Organoleptic evaluation was conducted by 37 panelists using a hedonic scale technique. The analysis of the organoleptic test data comprised the normality, Friedman, and Wilcoxon Test. The findings revealed that the tempeh broth formula with a 15g clam flour substitution (P2) was the most preferred in terms of color, aroma, and taste. The substitution of clam flour in tempeh also led to an increase in the nutritional value, specifically higher protein, PUFA, vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin B6, total folic acid, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, ferrous and zinc. In conclusion, increasing the amount of clam flour substitution in tempeh broth resulted in higher nutritional value and had a significant effect on the organoleptic properties. The findings support the continued exploration of local functional food interventions to address nutritional deficiencies and improve public health nutrition.

Effects of Exercise and Kinesiotaping with and without Wedge Insole on Pain and Function in Patients with Grade 3 Knee Osteoarthritis

Abstract Background: Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a common degenerative joint disease, often resulting from wear-and-tear and articular cartilage loss. This condition frequently leads to significant pain and physical limitations, affecting the quality of life, particularly in older adults. Objective: To determine the effectiveness of exercise combined with Kinesio tape (KT) and wedge insoles on pain and physical limitations in patients with grade 3 knee osteoarthritis. Methods: A randomized clinical trial was conducted on a sample of 60 participants diagnosed with grade 3 knee OA. Participants were randomly divided into two groups of 30 each using a sealed envelope method. Group A received exercise, KT, and wedge insoles, while Group B received exercise and KT only. Both groups underwent 24 sessions over eight weeks, with three sessions per week. The interventions included electrotherapeutic modalities, strengthening exercises for the quadriceps and hamstrings, and KT application. Pain and physical function were measured using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) at baseline, the fourth week, and the eighth week. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25, with the Friedman test assessing within-group effects and the Mann-Whitney U test evaluating between-group differences. Statistical significance was set at p &lt; 0.05. Results: Group A consisted of 12 males (40%) and 18 females (60%), with a mean age of 52.33 ± 6.34 years. Group B had 10 males (33.3%) and 20 females (66.7%), with a mean age of 52.94 ± 5.75 years. Significant improvements were observed within both groups in VAS and WOMAC scores (p &lt; 0.05). Post-treatment, Group A demonstrated greater improvements in VAS (mean difference = 2.5, p = 0.000) and WOMAC (mean difference = 15.3, p = 0.000) compared to Group B. Conclusion: Both exercise combined with KT and exercise combined with KT and wedge insoles were effective in reducing pain and improving physical function in patients with grade 3 knee osteoarthritis. However, the combination of exercise and KT without wedge insoles produced superior effects. These findings suggest that KT, as an adjunct to exercise therapy, may provide additional benefits for managing knee OA. Keywords: Knee Osteoarthritis, Kinesio Tape, Wedge Insole, Pain Management, Physical Function, Randomized Clinical Trial, Non-Surgical Treatment, Electrotherapeutic Modalities, Strengthening Exercises, Visual Analogue Scale, WOMAC

Balcony usage as a space to achieve human well-being during pandemic COVID-19

ABSTRACT People who lived through the COVID-19 lockdowns have been reported to experience temporary depression, loneliness, and discomfort. Balcony can serve as an accessible place of respite to ease emotional distress when being confined at home. This research aims to systematically study balcony usage and design preference as a space to achieve well-being. It is based on views of apartment dwellers who experienced lockdown measures during the COVID-19 pandemic. From literature reviews and surveys, 14 popular balcony activities and 29 balcony design elements were derived and used in a questionnaire supplemented with drawings to best illustrate some of the concept. 505 effective samples (N = 505) were received from Taiwan, Vietnam, Indonesia and Portugal. Statistical analyzed results showed that Getting sun and air, Gardening, and Watching/Observing the street are the three most preferred balcony activities among these countries. The preferred balcony views, types, enclosures, decorations, and sizes are ranked with Friedman Test and summarized in this paper along with the relevant cultures and lifestyles discussion. The comprehensive findings of this study can offer architects and housing developers valuable insights for making design decision and promote well-being in apartment dwelling balcony design. Ultimately, balcony is an important component in an apartment. It can be used, not only, to reduce feelings of isolation, but also, to conduct social activities and housework during a pandemic lockdown.

Evaluating fingerprint-like patterns in the healthy Henle fiber layer using enface OCT imaging

PurposeEnface OCT may disclose a distinct “fingerprint-like' pattern within the HFL in various macular disorders. This study aims to investigate the frequency and characteristics of this pattern in healthy eyes and identify potential factors influencing its visibility. MethodsTwo, independent masked reading center graders evaluated for the presence and prominence of a fingerprint pattern in the Henle fiber layer (HFL) on enface OCT images from 33 healthy subjects (66 eyes). The prominence of the pattern was rated qualitatively using a 0–3 scale, with 3 indicating the strongest prominence. Tilt angles (relative to the normal/perpendicular at the center) of the retina were measured on horizontal and vertical B-scans, and the retinal curvature was assessed using ImageJ, in order to determine the impact of the incident light angle on the visibility and prominence of the fingerprint pattern. Inter-grader agreement using Cohen's kappa and the frequency and percentage of patterns in the entire enface image and in each quadrant were calculated and compared using the Friedman test with Dunn's post-test. A generalized estimating equation (GEE) was used to analyze the association between these metrics and fingerprint prominence. ResultsSubstantial inter-grader agreement was observed (Cohen's kappa = 0.71) for assessing the prominence of the fingerprint pattern. Over 70% of eyes exhibited some evidence of the pattern (score ≥1). Significant difference in pattern prominence across quadrants was detected (p < 0.05), with lowest prominence in the temporal quadrant (p < 0.001 for pairwise comparisons against all other quadrants). The GEE analysis to account for the extent of the effect of scan tilt angle and RPE curvature was not able to predict the prominence of the fingerprint pattern, highlighting that angle of incidence (of the scanning laser light) alone could not explain the pattern. ConclusionsThis study confirms that a fingerprint-like pattern within the HFL can also be observed in healthy eyes, challenging the notion that this finding is only manifest in the setting of disease. In addition, the lack of correlation with angle of incident light suggests that the pattern may be related to other intrinsic characteristics of the HFL.

The effects of trauma‐focused treatment on painful temporomandibular disorders, awake bruxism and sleep bruxism in patients with severe post‐traumatic stress disorder

AbstractBackgroundChronic painful temporomandibular disorders (TMD), awake bruxism and sleep bruxism are often comorbid with post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but the implications for treatment are unknown.Objective(s)To explore the effects of PTSD treatment on these conditions. We hypothesized that chronic painful TMD, pain intensity, pain interference, awake bruxism and sleep bruxism would decrease after evidence‐based trauma‐focused treatment and that this decrease would be maintained at the 6‐month follow‐up.MethodsIndividuals referred for PTSD treatment were assessed for chronic painful TMD (temporomandibular disorder pain screener), pain intensity, pain interference (Graded Chronic Pain Scale 2.0), awake bruxism and sleep bruxism (oral behaviours checklist) pre‐, post‐treatment and at the 6‐month follow‐up. Hypotheses were tested using the Friedman test, followed by a post hoc Wilcoxon signed‐rank test. Effect sizes (Cohen's r) are reported. Barely any pain interference was reported, therefore these outcomes were not analysed.ResultsIn individuals with chronic painful TMD (n = 98), pain intensity, awake bruxism and sleep bruxism decreased across the three time points. Post hoc tests showed that chronic painful TMD (r = 0.59), pain intensity (r = 0.28), awake bruxism (r = 0.51) and sleep bruxism (r = 0.35) decreased between pre‐ and post‐treatment. Between pre‐treatment and the 6‐month follow‐up, chronic painful TMD (r = 0.58), awake bruxism (r = 0.30) and sleep bruxism (r = 0.39) decreased as well.ConclusionThe results provide preliminary support for a trauma‐sensitive approach for patients with chronic painful TMD and PTSD and suggest that trauma‐focused treatment may be beneficial for chronic painful TMD, awake bruxism and sleep bruxism in patients with PTSD and chronic painful TMD.

Examining enamel-surface demineralization upon exposure to acidic solutions and the remineralization potential of milk and artificial saliva.

The enamel surface may undergo demineralization due to exposure to acidic substances and the remineralization of the etched enamel is crucial to regain or maintain integrity. This study aimed to investigate the erosive effect of 10 acidic solutions on tooth enamel and the remineralization capacity of milk and artificial saliva by measuring surface roughness (Ra), enamel depth, and microhardness. A total of 80 bovine incisor enamel specimens were immersed in 10 different acidic solutions, including four different acidic drinks, three different citric acid solutions, and three different citric acid buffer solutions, for 1h. After demineralization, the specimens were immersed in milk and artificial saliva for 3h. Surface roughness, enamel abraded depth, and microhardness were measured before demineralization, in-between time intervals and after remineralization. Data were analyzed using Friedman and Kruskal-Wallis tests (p < 0.05). The results indicate a significant difference in surface roughness between the measurements taken at different time intervals, particularly between the baseline and after 1h demineralization. Also, the specimens immersed in CAB1 exhibited greatest increase in Ra among other acidic solutions (Δ: 0.18 ± 0.07). Moreover, only the microhardness increased after remineralization (p < 0.05). Enamel demineralization using various acidic solutions revealed increased Ra and enamel abraded depth, and decreased microhardness. The use of remineralization agents, milk and artificial saliva, demonstrated an increase in microhardness. This study provides insights into the effects of different acidic solutions and potential remineralization agents on tooth enamel.

Analysis of Kinematic Variables According to Menstrual Cycle Phase and Running Intensity: Implications for Training Female Athletes

Depending on the phase of the menstrual cycle, different values of running kinematic variables can be obtained. The aim of this study is to analyze whether there are changes in the kinematic variables in running throughout the menstrual cycle and to relate them to running performance and injury prevention. Eight regular female runners and triathletes performed a maximal treadmill test, as well as a submaximal test (6′ stages at 50%, 60% and 80% of maximal aerobic speed) in each of the phases of the menstrual cycle: menstruation phase (day 2.4 ± 0.7), follicular phase (day 10.4 ± 2.2) and luteal phase (day 21.8 ± 2.1). Running dynamics were measured using RunScribe. For parametric data, a general linear model of repeated measures was applied, with two intrasubject independent variables, menstrual cycle phases (with three levels: Menstruation, Follicular, and Luteal) and running intensity (with four levels relative to the maximum speed reached in the test: 100%, 80%, 60%, and 50%). For variables with non-normal distributions, Friedman tests were performed with Wilcoxon post-tests adjusted for significance according to Bonferroni. The maximum stance velocity from foot strike to the point of maximum pronation (°/s) was higher in the menstruation phase than in the follicular and luteal phases (p = 0.008), the step rate (s/min) was higher in the follicular phase than in the menstruation and luteal phases (p = 0.049), the vertical velocity (m/s) was lower in the follicular phase than in the menstruation (p = 0.004) and luteal phases (p = 0.003), and the contact time (ms) was lower in the luteal phase than in the menstruation and follicular phases. These results suggest that training at high intensities could be a factor in greater risk of injury in female athletes, especially in the menstruation phase, finding in the luteal phase and at an intensity of 80% a greater efficiency in the running.

EEG correlates to perceived urgency elicited by vibration stimulation of the upper body

Conveying information effectively while minimizing user distraction is critical to human–computer interaction. As the proliferation of audio–visual communication pushes human information processing capabilities to the limit, researchers are turning their attention to haptic interfaces. Haptic feedback has the potential to create a desirable sense of urgency that allows users to selectively focus on events/tasks or process presented information with minimal distraction or annoyance. There is a growing interest in understanding the neural mechanisms associated with haptic stimulation. In this study, we aim to investigate the EEG correlates associated with the perceived urgency elicited by vibration stimuli on the upper body using a haptic vest. A total of 31 participants enrolled in this experiment and were exposed to three conditions: no vibration pattern (NVP), urgent vibration pattern (UVP), and very urgent vibration pattern (VUVP). Through self-reporting, participants confirmed that the vibration patterns elicited significantly different levels of perceived urgency (Friedman test, Holm–Bonferroni correction, p < 0.01). Furthermore, neural analysis revealed that the power spectral density of the delta, theta, and alpha frequency bands in the middle central area (C1, Cz, and C2) significantly increased for the UVP and VUVP conditions as compared to the NVP condition (One-way ANOVA test, Holm–Bonferroni correction, p < 0.01). While the perceptual experience of haptic-induced urgency is well studied with self-reporting and behavioral evidence, this is the first effort to evaluate the neural correlates to haptic-induced urgency using EEG. Further research is warranted to identify unique correlates to the cognitive processes associated with urgency from sensory feedback correlates.

An improved gray wolf optimization algorithm solving to functional optimization and engineering design problems

As a newly proposed optimization algorithm based on the social hierarchy and hunting behavior of gray wolves, grey wolf algorithm (GWO) has gradually become a popular method for solving the optimization problems in various engineering fields. In order to further improve the convergence speed, solution accuracy, and local minima escaping ability of the traditional GWO algorithm, this work proposes a multi-strategy fusion improved gray wolf optimization (IGWO) algorithm. First, the initial population is optimized using the lens imaging reverse learning algorithm for laying the foundation for global search. Second, a nonlinear control parameter convergence strategy based on cosine variation is proposed to coordinate the global exploration and local exploitation ability of the algorithm. Finally, inspired by the tunicate swarm algorithm (TSA) and the particle swarm algorithm (PSO), a nonlinear tuning strategy for the parameters, and a correction based on the individual historical optimal positions and the global optimal positions are added in the position update equations to speed up the convergence of the algorithm. The proposed algorithm is assessed using 23 benchmark test problems, 15 CEC2014 test problems, and 2 well-known constraint engineering problems. The results show that the proposed IGWO has a balanced E&P capability in coping with global optimization as analyzed by the Wilcoxon rank sum and Friedman tests, and has a clear advantage over other state-of-the-art algorithms.

Comparative accuracy of intraocular lens power calculation formulas when targeting myopia

PurposeThis study aims to compare the accuracies of intraocular lens (IOL) power calculation formulas when targeting myopia versus emmetropia. MethodsA total of 450 patients were included, with 225 patients targeting emmetropia and 225 patients aiming for approximately −2.0 diopters of myopia. This retrospective analysis utilized data from a single eye of each patient, with preoperative biometric measurements obtained using the IOL Master 700. The study considered established formulas such as Haigis, Hoffer Q, Holladay 1, Holladay 2, and SRK/T, as well as modern formulas including Barrett Universal II, Cooke K6, EVO 2.0, Hill-RBF, Hoffer QST, Kane, Olsen, and PEARL-DGS. Statistical analyses, including Friedman test and post hoc analysis, were employed to compare the accuracy of each IOL power calculation formula between the two groups. Additionally, a multiple regression analysis was conducted to identify variables influencing the accuracy of intraocular lens power calculation formulas. ResultsIn targeting myopia, all IOL formulas tended to exhibit a greater refractive error compared to when targeting emmetropic eyes. Notably, the Haigis, SRK/T, and Holladay 2 formulas were found to be highly influenced by this trend, while the modern formulas were less affected. ConclusionThe accuracy of IOL power calculation formulas diminishes when targeting myopia in comparison to emmetropia. However, the modern formulas appear less susceptible to this trend. Consequently, when aiming for myopia, the use of the modern formulas is recommended for enhanced accuracy in IOL power calculation.

Enhancing social enterprise coffee marketability through sensory packaging: consumer impressions, willingness to buy, and gender differences

PurposeThis study investigates how consumers perceive the packaging of Philippine coffee social enterprise products and how this impression affects their willingness to purchase based on sensory expectations, brand attitude, product quality perception, and price perception.Design/methodology/approachFollowing a positivist research philosophy, this study used empirical methods, surveying 263 coffee consumers. The coffee packaging prototypes varied across material and graphic designs. The data was analyzed statistically using the Friedman test and Spearman correlation.FindingsIt was found that packaging elements elicit an equal share of emotional responses. Graphics have a greater impact than materials. Females are more affected by visuals, while materials influence males more. Further, packaging design correlates positively and significantly with consumer impressions and willingness to buy.Research limitations/implicationsThe sampling methodology limits generalizability. Future studies can use integrated models to analyze the effects of additional packaging variables like color and shape.Practical implicationsCoffee enterprises should focus on graphic rather than material elements. Paper packs with patterned graphics are most attractive to consumers. Targeted gender-sensitive packaging designs are needed. Standardized packaging can help build the Philippine coffee social enterprise industry and support small-scale farmer livelihoods. Environmentally sustainable materials should be prioritized.Social implicationsThe findings contribute to the success and growth of small-scale farmers and social enterprises in the Philippines. These businesses can attract more consumers, increase their market share, and ultimately generate more significant social impact by implementing packaging design strategies that effectively communicate product quality, sustainability, and social value.Originality/valueThe study uniquely integrates diverse methods to provide holistic insights into jointly analyzing the effects of packaging materials and graphics. It proposes an expanded conceptual role of packaging in shaping product perceptions using the affective response framework and Kansei approach.

Chronologic Changes in Transcranial Motor Evoked Potential During Anterior Temporal Lobectomy in Patients with Temporal Lobe Epilepsy: A Single-Center Cross-Sectional Analytic Study

Despite the benefits of anterior temporal lobectomy with amygdalohippocampectomy in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE), approximately up to 5% may have hemiparesis as its postoperative complication. This paper aims to describe which step/s of the anterior temporal lobectomy with amygdalohippocampectomy have the highest probability of having the greatest decrease in motor evoked potential (MEP) amplitude. This study used a cross-sectional design of obtaining data from TLE patients who underwent anterior temporal lobectomy with amygdalohippocampectomy with transcranial MEP monitoring. Each of the following steps were evaluated for reduction in MEP amplitude: 1) dural opening, 2) opening the inferior horn, 2) vertical temporal lobe resection 3) subpial dissection, 4) temporal lobe stem resection, 5) lateral temporal lobe resection, 6) hippocampal resection, 7) amygdala resection, 8) uncus resection, and 9) dural closure. Nineteen patients were included in the study. Based on the Friedman Test, 1 or more steps had significantly different average MEP amplitude reductions (Friedman= 50.7, P= 0.0001). When compared with baseline (100%, cutoff P= 0.005), hippocampal resection (z= -3.81, P < 0.0001), T1 subpial dissection (z= -3.2, P= 0.0010), uncus resection (z= -3.48, P= 0.0002), temporal stem resection (z= -3.26, P= 0.001), lateral temporal lobe resection (z= -3.13, P= 0.002), and amygdalectomy (-z= -3.37, P= 0.0005) were significantly lower. Of these, hippocampal resection, uncus resection, and amygdalectomy were deemed highly significant. MEP amplitude tends to decrease during amygdala, hippocampal, and uncal resection because of surgical manipulation of anterior choroidal arteries, which can potentially cause hemiparesis. Careful attention should be paid to changes in MEP during these steps.

The Influence of Technological Innovation Capability on Sustainable Supply Chain Management Implementation—Evidence from Patent-Intensive Industries

The technological innovation capability of enterprises has many functions and many influences on the implementation of sustainable supply chain management. The study aims to shed light on how technological innovation capabilities (TICs) affect the implementation of sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) and how they can help organizations overcome internal barriers to SSCM implementation. This descriptive survey was conducted in the context of Iran. The survey was carried out with 27 responses, which were analyzed by one-sample t-test to determine the relationships between variables, and the Friedman test to rank the results. This study employs SPSS for statistical analysis. The study reveals that all TICs have a substantial effect on SSCM implementation in general, especially the learning capability, resource allocation capability, and manufacturing capability, which all have an almost identical positive and significant effect on SSCM implementation. Interestingly, organizing capability had the least influence on SSCM implementation. In addition, the results demonstrating improved TICs could assist firms in overcoming internal barriers to SSCM implementation. From a practical standpoint, the relationship between TICs and SSCM implementation and its barriers may give insight into how organizations can enhance their SSCM implementation by improving TICs. Moreover, policymakers and sustainable supply chain managers in Iran can benefit from the identified relationships in this study. This study is one of the first to analyze the impact of TICs on SSCM implementation, and the findings provide a novel paradigm for understanding how TICs influence the implementation of SSCM.