alt Hacker NewsSure, could be just lucky. But if there are several successful small studies, and several unsuccessful large ones (no idea if this is the case here), we should probably look for a better explanation.
Sure, could be just lucky. But if there are several successful small studies, and several unsuccessful large ones (no idea if this is the case here), we should probably look for a better explanation.
It does not require more explanation: publication bias means null results aren't in the literature; do enough small low quality trials and you'll find a big effect sooner or later.
Then the supposed big effect attracts attention and ultimately properly designed studies which show no effect.