Good Level Of Reliability Research Articles

Examining the Validity of a New Method for the Objective Assessment of Binocular Accommodative Facility (2Q-AF Test): A Comparison with ± 2.00 DS Lens Flippers

ABSTRACT Purpose Recent technological advances have permitted to objectively record the accommodative response while shifting between two different levels of accommodation. This study is aimed at examining the concurrent validity of a new objective method for the qualitative and quantitative assessment of binocular accommodative facility, which is named 2Q-AF test, in comparison to the ±2.00 DS lens flippers. Methods Fifty-six individuals took part in this study (36 healthy young adults [24.4 ± 3.2 years] and 20 children [12.2 ± 0.4 years]). Participants randomly performed the 2Q-AF and the ±2.00 DS lens flipper tests. For the 2Q-AF test, a binocular open-field autorefractor was used to record the magnitude of accommodative response during a 60-sec period, while participants repeatedly changed fixation from a 5 m to a 40 cm chart when clarity of vision was achieved at each level. Due to the advantages of the proposed method, we have determined the number of cycles and the 2Q-AF score, with the latter also considering the accuracy of changes in accommodation. A standard procedure was followed for the ±2.00 DS flipper test. Results Our data exhibited a moderate association between the number of cycles with the ±2.00 DS lens flippers and the number of cycles in the 2Q-AF test in the group of young adults (p = .005, r = 0.46 [0.15–0.68]) and children (p = .007, r = 0.58 [0.19–0.81]), whereas a stronger relationship was observed when considering the number of cycles with the ±2.00 DS lens flippers and the 2Q-AF score (young adults: p < .001, r = 0.83 [0.69–0.91]; and children: p < .001, r = 0.78 [0.52–0.91]). Conclusions The current findings show that the 2Q-AF test is a valid method for accommodative facility assessment, as suggested by its good levels of reliability and validity. This method allows to examine the accommodative facility in qualitative terms and solve most of the limitations associated with the ±2.00 DS lens flipper test.

A robust Euclidean metric based ID extraction method using RO-PUFs in FPGA

Main problems in FPGA-based ring oscillator (RO) PUFs are that the RO frequencies are highly sensitive to operating conditions and other types of global variations. In addition, the RO frequencies are highly correlated by local variations. Therefore, in practice, conventional RO-PUF application schemes using Hamming distance normally require complex identification (ID) extraction algorithms and/or a large number of ROs to ensure a high level of uniqueness and reliability of the extracted IDs. In this work, we proposed a novel scheme of ID extraction based on Euclidean distances. Our proposed scheme stably and reliably generates the ID using a non-selective small number of ROs. Specifically, the generated IDs are mostly non-sensitive to global variables and operating conditions such as ambient temperature. In oppose to Hamming-based extraction, the close-frequencies ROs are normally removed to avoid flipping bits, our proposed scheme takes all those into account and simplifies the extraction process. Experiments on our available hardware have shown a very good level of reliability and uniqueness with ID collision rate is estimated less than 2×10−9.

ImGo: A Novel Tool for Behavioral Impulsivity Assessment Based on Go/NoGo Tasks.

This manuscript aims to present a novel behavioral impulsivity test ImGo, which is suitable for impulsivity assessment in the general population. A series of three studies was conducted to validate its psychometric qualities. In Study 1 we describe the principles of ImGo and verify its test-retest and split-half reliability and its convergent validity with an impulsivity self-report scale and Stop Signal test. In Study 2 we re-analyze the convergent validity of ImGo with a Stop Signal test and examine the potential relationship between ImGo and oculomotor inhibition measured by an Anti-Saccades test. In Study 3 we present a robust research with a large sample size and investigate the discriminant validity of ImGo with tests of other related cognitive and executive processes. Backed by our findings from these studies we can safely claim ImGo is a powerful tool with a good level of reliability (both test-retest and split-half) and validity (convergent and discriminant). Its potential lies in its use in diagnostic and research practice of experts from various countries as the test has already been translated to 9 languages so far. The open-source Hypothesis platform, on which the ImGo test is running, provides the option of both individual and group testing in laboratory conditions as well as remotely through an internet browser.

Timed "Up & Go" Dual-Task Tests: Age- and Sex-Specific Reference Values and Test-Retest Reliability in Cognitively Healthy Controls.

ObjectiveThe purpose of the study was to establish reference values for the Uppsala-Dalarna Dementia and Gait (UDDGait) Timed “Up & Go” dual-task (TUGdt) test variables in cognitively healthy adults and to assess these variables’ test–retest reliability.MethodsFor reference values, 166 participants were recruited with approximately equal numbers and proportions of women and men in the age groups 50 to 59, 60 to 69, 70 to 79, and 80+ years (mean age = 70 years, age range = 50–91 years, 51% women). For reliability testing, 43 individuals (mean age = 69 years, age range = 50–89 years, 51% women) were recruited. Two dt tests were carried out: TUGdt naming animals and TUGdt months backward, representing 8 test variables: time scores, costs (the relative difference between single-task and dt time scores), “number of animals,” “number of months,” “animals/10 seconds ,” and “months/10 seconds .” Reference ranges for the variables were established by quantile regression in age- and sex-specific groups. For reliability, intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), standard error of measurement, minimal detectable change, and Bland–Altman plots were used.ResultsReference values for the TUGdt test variables are presented for the 2.5th and 97.5th percentiles. The reliability of TUGdt time scores was excellent (ICCs between 0.85 and 0.86). “Number of animals” and “animals/10 seconds” as well as “months/10 seconds” showed fair to good levels of reliability (ICCs between 0.45 and 0.58), whereas the reliability for both cost measures and “number of months” was poor (ICCs between 0.34 and 0.39).ConclusionNormative reference values, potentially useful for clinical and research purposes, were presented in 4 age- and sex-specific groups from 50 years and older. Reliability for the test variables varied between poor and excellent, the lower estimates partly explained by some variables being the ratio of 2 other variables. In UDDGait, TUGdt tests are intended for diagnostic and predictive purposes, for which these tests are promising and require further investigations.ImpactNormative reference values and test–retest reliability results for the UDDGait TUGdt test variables were presented. These results should be useful for both clinical and research purposes.

Evaluation of the Feasibility, Reliability, and Repeatability of Welfare Indicators in Free-Roaming Horses: A Pilot Study.

Simple SummaryAnimal welfare assessment is an essential tool for maintaining positive animal wellbeing. Validated welfare assessment protocols have been developed for farm, laboratory, zoo, and companion animals, including horses in managed care. However, wild and free-roaming equines have received relatively little attention, despite populations being found worldwide. In the UK, free-roaming ponies inhabit areas of Exmoor, Dartmoor, and New Forest, England, and Snowdonia National Park in Wales, amongst others. Visitors and local members of the public who encounter free-roaming ponies occasionally raise concerns about their welfare, as they are not provided with additional food, water, or shelter. In this study, we evaluated the feasibility, reliability, and repeatability of welfare indicators that can be applied to a population of free-roaming Carneddau Mountain ponies to address such concerns. Our findings indicate that many of the trialed indicators were successfully repeated and had good levels of inter-assessor reliability. Reliable and repeatable welfare indicators for free-roaming and semi free-roaming ponies will enable population managers and conservation grazing schemes to manage the welfare of free-roaming horses and ponies.Validated assessment protocols have been developed to quantify welfare states for intensively managed sport, pleasure, and working horses. There are few protocols for extensively managed or free-roaming populations. Here, we trialed welfare indicators to ascertain their feasibility, reliability, and repeatability using free-roaming Carneddau Mountain ponies as an example population. The project involved (1) the identification of animal and resource-based measures of welfare from both the literature and discussion with an expert group; (2) testing the feasibility and repeatability of a modified body condition score and mobility score on 34 free-roaming and conservation grazing Carneddau Mountain ponies; and (3) testing a prototype welfare assessment template comprising 12 animal-based and 6 resource-based welfare indicators, with a total of 20 questions, on 35 free-roaming Carneddau Mountain ponies to quantify inter-assessor reliability and repeatability. This pilot study revealed that many of the indicators were successfully repeatable and had good levels of inter-assessor reliability. Some of the indicators could not be verified for reliability due to low/absent occurrence. The results indicated that many animal and resource-based indicators commonly used in intensively managed equine settings could be measured in-range with minor modifications. This study is an initial step toward validating a much-needed tool for the welfare assessment of free-roaming and conservation grazing ponies.

Simplified Criteria to Select Ground Response Analysis Methods for Seismic Building Design: Equivalent Linear versus Nonlinear Approaches

ABSTRACT The possible amplification of seismic waves in soil deposits is crucial for the seismic design of buildings and geotechnical systems. The most common approaches for the numerical simulation of seismic site response are the equivalent linear (EQL) and the nonlinear (NL). Even though their advantages and limitations have been investigated in several studies, the relative field of applicability is still under debate. This study tested both methods over a wide population of soil models, which were subjected to a set of acceleration time histories recorded from strong earthquakes. A thorough comparison of the results of the EQL and the NL approaches was carried out, to identify the conditions in which the relative differences are significant. This assessment allowed for the definition of simplified criteria to predict when the two schemes are or are not compatible for large expected shaking levels. The proposed criteria are based on simple and intuitive parameters describing the soil deposit and the ground-motion parameters, which can be predicted straightforwardly. Therefore, this study provides a scheme for the choice between the EQL and the NL approaches that can be used even at the preliminary design stages. It appears that the EQL approach provides reliable amplification estimates in soil deposits with thickness up to 30 m, except for very deformable soils, but this depth range may be extended at long vibration periods. This result reveals a good level of reliability of the EQL approach for various soil conditions encountered in common applications, even for high-intensity shaking.

Childhood Personality Assessment Q-Sort (CPAP-Q): A Clinically and Empirically Procedure for Assessing Traits and Emerging Patterns of Personality in Childhood.

Background: Despite increasing research confirming the existence of childhood personalities, which are recognizable from a developmental perspective, controversies over the possibility to assess personality in childhood have continued. The purpose of this study was to provide initial data on the validation of the Childhood Personality Assessment Q-Sort (CPAP-Q), a clinician report instrument that can be employed to evaluate children’s personalities and address the gap in the field of emerging personality in children classification. Method: A sample of 135 clinicians completed the CPAP-Q to assess the personality features of 135 children (ages 4–11) who had been in their care between two and 12 months. The clinicians completed a clinical questionnaire to collect information on them, the children, and their families, as well as the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL), to evaluate the children’s behavioral problems and social competencies. Results: Q-factor analysis identified seven specific emerging personality patterns: psychological health, borderline/impulsive, borderline/dysregulated, schizoid, inhibited/self-critical, obsessive, and dysphoric/dependent. These patterns revealed good levels of validity and reliability. Conclusions: These findings are preliminary, but seem to support the possibility of evaluating emerging personality patterns in childhood and their developmental pathways that may lead to personality disorders in adolescence and adulthood. The CPAP-Q promises to significantly contribute to less explored research areas and encourage systematic studies of children assessment, promoting best practices for individualized diagnoses.

Uji Validitas Dan Relibilitas Instrumen Pengukuran Implementasi E-Learning Terhadap Kepuasan Pengguna Pada Masa Pandemi COVID 19 Di Lingkungan Politeknik Negeri Banjarmasin

Implementation of online learning requires adequate preparation and support of resources, first is the software or tools used in online lectures, where Poliban has e-learning that can be used or can use other tools. Both hardware or computer equipment with the required specifications, one of which is a camera used for video conferencing, and what is very important is a stable internet network connection. Therefore, if at least these three things can be fulfilled, then online lectures can be carried out well. However, in reality, there are several problems faced by both lecturers and students, especially related to the unstable internet network signal, so that the implementation of online lectures cannot run optimally. To find out the problems faced by users, a measurement instrument for the implementation of E-learning on user satisfaction is needed. In making a good instrument model, a test is needed to ensure that the indicators used in the instrument used are valid and reliable and have a good level of reliability.&#x0D; Based on the problems mentioned above, this research will conduct instrument testing using validity tests and reliability tests where in the analysis process a Partial Least Square (PLS) application framework is used in SEM which is a statistical model that provides an approximate calculation of strength. hypothetical relationships among variables in a theoretical model&#x0D; The results of the research that have been carried out show that the results of the validity test of the instrument for measuring the implementation of e-learning on user satisfaction at the Banjarmasin state polytechnic get a loading factor value above 0.5 on the intended construct, these results indicate that the indicators used in this study are valid. or has met convergent validity, then based on the reliability test it shows that the composite reliability value for all constructs is above 0.7 which indicates that all constructs in the estimated model meet the criteria for discriminant validity. The lowest composite reliability value is 0.837 in the System Quality construct, this shows that the test instrument shows a good level of reliability, or in other words, the questionnaire results can be trusted.

Validity of a modified food and nutrition literacy questionnaire in primary school children in Iran.

The present study aimed to assess the relative validity and reliability of a modified Food and Nutrition Literacy (M-FNLIT) questionnaire in primary school children in the city of Mashhad. The study was conducted in four phases. In the first step, the content and face validity of the questionnaire were evaluated by Delphi consensus as well as interviewing the students. Then, construct validity was examined using Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA). The internal consistency and reliability of the questionnaire were also assessed using Cronbach α and Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC), respectively. Finally, a receiver operating characteristic analysis was performed to detect the cut-off scores of the M-FNLIT scale. Findings of two rounds of Delphi showed satisfactory levels of Content Validity Ratio: 0·72 and 0·92, Content Validity Index (CVI): 0·92 and 0·98, respectively. The results of CFA for domains and subscales of the M-FNLIT questionnaire including cognitive domain (understanding food and nutrition information and nutritional health knowledge) and skill domain (functional, food choice, interactive, and critical skills) indicated acceptable fit indices. M-FNLIT subscale-specific Cronbach α values ranged between 0·68 and 0·8 and ICC was 0·95 (95 % CI 0·93, 96). The final questionnaire included forty items (thirty-six Likert-type and four true-false items). FNLIT scores were categorized as low (≤ 58), medium (> 58–< 81), and high (≥ 81). The M-FNLIT questionnaire has a good level of validity and reliability to measure food and nutrition literacy in primary school children. The questionnaire can be applied in the evaluation of nutritional interventions in this age group.

Inter, intra-examiner reliability and validity of inertial sensors to measure the active cervical range of motion in patients with primary headache.

We analyzed the inter- and intra-examiner reliability of Werium inertial sensors and the cervical range of motion (CROM) instrument for the measurement of active CROM (AcROM) in patients with primary headache. Another objective is to analyze the validity of the inertial sensors (Werium). The literature has reported symptomatology features in patients diagnosed with primary headache similar to that of patients with cervicogenic headache. The International Classification of Headache (ICHD-III) established the presence of reduced AcROM as a diagnostic criterion for cervicogenic headache. Several instruments are used for this measurement, with limitations in their applicability in daily clinical practice. A prospective longitudinal repeated measures study was conducted to assess the intra- and inter-rater reliability and validity of Werium inertial sensors in 20 adults with chronic primary headache. For the inter-rater analysis, the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) values were above 0.75 for all movements, indicating a good level of reliability. For the intra-rater results, the ICC values obtained by the Werium inertial sensors for all cervical movements were good for rater A (ICC >0.80) and rater B (ICC >0.84). For the validity, the ICCs obtained by the Werium inertial sensors compared with the CROM instrument for all cervical movements were moderate for both raters (ICC > 0.70, respectively). Values obtained in the standard error of measurement, minimum detectable change at 90% and limits of agreement also indicated good agreement. Werium inertial sensors have shown good to excellent reliability results, both intra- and inter-examiner (ICC > 0.75). Likewise, when the sensors were compared with another validated instrument (CROM device) they obtained high reliability results (ICC > 0.70). These results plus its relatively low price and ease of use allow us to recommend it in daily clinical practice to measure AcROM in patients with chronic primary headache.

Instrumentalization of a Model for the Evaluation of the Level of Satisfaction of Graduates under an E-Learning Methodology: A Case Analysis Oriented to Postgraduate Studies in the Environmental Field

The purpose of this article was to evaluate the level of satisfaction of a sample of graduates in relation to different online postgraduate programs in the environmental area, as part of the process of continuous improvement in which the educational institution was immersed for the renewal of its accreditation before the corresponding official bodies. Based on the bibliographic review of a series of models and tools, a Likert scale measurement instrument was developed. This instrument, once applied and validated, showed a good level of reliability, with more than three quarters of the participants having a positive evaluation of satisfaction. Likewise, to facilitate the relational study, and after confirming the suitability of performing a factor analysis, four variable grouping factors were determined, which explained a good part of the variability of the instrument’s items. As a result of the analysis, it was found that there were significant values of low satisfaction in graduates from the Eurasian area, mainly in terms of organizational issues and academic expectations. On the other hand, it was observed that the methodological aspects of the “Auditing” and “Biodiversity” programs showed higher levels of dissatisfaction than the rest, with no statistically significant relationships between gender, entry profile or age groups. The methodology followed and the rigor in determining the validity and reliability of the instrument, as well as the subsequent analysis of the results, endorsed by the review of the documented information, suggest that the instrument can be applied to other multidisciplinary programs for decision making with guarantees in the educational field.

Measurement model for Pahang Portal Mart acceptance scale instrument

The use of Pahang Mart portal among the people of Pahang during the covid19 season is very encouraging. However, if the use of this portal is not complete, then the development of this portal will be a futile and detrimental project. A study on the acceptance of this portal is necessary and to ensure that this study has validity and reliability, the instrument needs to be proven in advance about its validity and reliability. Therefore, this study aims to determine the validity and reliability of the instrument that used to measure PahangMart portal acceptance. This study is a quantitative study using questionnaire instruments taken from previous researchers. The findings of the study prove that the questionnaire has a good level of validity and reliability.

THE EFFECT OF SERVICE QUALITY, BRAND IMAGE AND PRICE PERCEPTION ON SALES VOLUME OF VIVO BRAND SMARTPHONES (survey on consumers of PT. Finansia Multi Finance, Bangkinang Branch)

This study aims to determine the effect of service quality, brand image and price perception on sales volume of Vivo brand smartphones (survey on consumers of PT. Finansia Multi Finance, Bangkinang Branch). This research was conducted by distributing questionnaires to 91 consumers who bought the Vivo brand smartphones. The type of data used consists of primary data and secondary data. These data were collected using a questionnaire and research files. From the results of the validity test, all items of the statements submitted to the respondents were declared valid with a value of rcount greater than the value of rtable (0.206). Reliability test results also indicate that each item has a good level of reliability with Cronbach's alpha value above 0.6. From the results of the study concluded that the independent variables partially affect the sales volume at PT. Finansia Multi Finance Bangkinang Branch. The analytical tool used to measure the effect of the independent variable on the dependent variable is multiple linear regression. The correlation coefficient (R) is 0.668 with the coefficient of determination (R2) of 42.60%. The results of this study indicate that the variables of service quality, brand image and price perception affect the sales volume at PT. Finansia Multi Finance Bangkinang Branch.

The psychological health and well-being of children working in the brick industry: A comparative study

How does arduous work affect child and adolescents’ psychological health and well-being? This analysis of a unique four-country data set (915 children working in brick factories and a non-working comparison group of 638 children) sought to understand the nature and extent of psychological differences, if any, between the two groups and to validate an instrument capable of eliciting this information for use in population-based surveys. The instrument, combining variables from child psychology and occupational health, demonstrates a good level of reliability. Factor Analysis confirmed six dimensions of psychosocial well-being relevant to working children: stress, self-esteem, supervision, emotionality, personal security and sense of mistreatment. Multivariate linear regressions were used to statistically model the effect of “working” on these dimensions vis-a-vis pertinent sociodemographic variables. The results showed Work to be associated with negative outcomes on all the measured dimensions with girls most significantly affected; expected positive effects (e.g. increased self-confidence associated with work or with assisting the family) were not found. Migration status and work-related injuries appeared to have little influence. A potentially important finding is that attending school is the one factor that seems to have a mediating or psychologically protective effect.Psychological health is often overlooked because it is invisible and considered too difficult to measure. Yet knowing the nature and severity of the psychological stresses experienced by working children can be critical for designing appropriate interventions (e.g. provision of schools in this case), and may persuade policy-makers to take action more urgently than they might otherwise have done.

Fiabilidad interobservador de tres métodos de fotogrametría para medir la lordosis lumbar

Background and objectiveRadiography is currently considered the gold standard test for measuring lumbar lordosis. However, it requires special preparation and there is also a risk of exposure to ionizing radiation, which is harmful to health. The cost of the equipment used and exposure to radiation are factors that limit the application of this type of diagnostic test. Photogrammetry can identify distinctive features allowing recognition of angles such as those of lumbar lordosis. Knowledge needs to be increased on reliability based on standards that provide the physiotherapist protocols with reproducible measures that facilitate decision-making related to this condition. Therefore, the objective of this study is to determine the inter-rater reliability of three forms of photogrammetry to measure lumbar lordosis in people with non-specific low back pain. MethodologyAn analysis of lumbar lordosis was carried out with two software programmes (Kinovea and ADiBAS Posture) in a sample of 26 people. Kinovea was used for 2D evaluation by means of the arrow test and the lordotic angle. ADiBAS Posture was used to measure lordosis in 3D. Three assessors made measurements from the photographs using the three measurement protocols defined for the study. ResultsADiBAS Posture analysis showed extremely good CCI, while the arrow and lordotic angle test proved to have good CCIs. On the other hand, the lordotic angle test showed significant differences while the arrow test and the 3D analysis showed no significant differences (p > 0.05). ConclusionsThe 3D analysis and arrow test to determine lumbar lordosis are tests with a particularly good level of reliability.

Hooper visual organization test: Psychometric properties and regression-based norms for the Venezuelan population

The Hooper Visual Organization Test (HVOT) is used to assess visual organization and visual synthesis. Psychometric studies reveal cultural biases and associations between demographic variables and test performance capable of compromising the test’s clinical utility. The present study aimed to adapt the HVOT, explore the psychometric properties of this test, and develop regression-based norms for the Venezuelan population. Using a cross-sectional design, the HVOT was administered to a stratified sample of 351 healthy adults (20–85 years of age and 0–23 years of education) from the Metropolitan Area of Caracas. The results revealed good levels of internal consistency and reliability. Confirmatory Factor Analysis suggests that the HVOT is unidimensional. Item difficulty, types and rate of errors and inappropriateness of some items indicated a potential cultural bias in our Venezuelan sample. Spearman’s Correlation and Wilcoxon Rank test analysis (p<.001) showed a significant association between HVOT total score and age, education, and gender, but not with socioeconomic status. We present regression-norms stratified by age, years of education, and gender. Cultural biases were noted, which highlights the need for a revision of items in terms of inclusion, scoring, and order of presentation. Future studies of concurrent and predictive validity are needed.

Measuring Ethical Organizational Culture: Validation of the Spanish Version of the Shortened Corporate Ethical Virtues Model

A key issue in the business ethics field is the design of effective measures for assessing the ethical culture of organizations. The Corporate Ethical Virtues Model (CEV), developed by Kaptein in 2008, is an instrument for measuring ethical culture, and has been applied, adapted and validated in different contexts. In 2013, DeBode, Armenakis, Field and Walker developed the CEV–S, a shortened version of the original scale. Both the CEV and CEV–S assess eight dimensions based on corporate ethical virtues: clarity, congruency of supervisors, congruency of senior management, feasibility, supportability, transparency, discussability and sanctionability. The objective of this study is to present a Spanish version of the CEV–S and its validation process. The scale was applied to two samples of 114 and 193 Colombian employees from two companies operating in the services sector. The confirmatory factor analyses revealed a good fit for the eight-factor structure of the Spanish CEV–S and the statistical tests applied showed good levels of reliability and validity for this scale. The adequate psychometric properties shown by the Spanish CEV–S may support its use in future research to measure organizational ethical culture in Spanish-speaking settings.

Validity and reliability of the EQ-5D-3L (a generic preference-based instrument used for calculating quality-adjusted life -years) for patients with type 2 diabetes in Iran

Background and aimsThe psychometric properties of the EQ-5D-3L (a generic preference-based instrument used for calculating quality-adjusted Life –years) have not been known for any type of disease in Iran. This study aimed to assess its validity and reliability in patients with type 2 diabetes. MethodsData of 579 patients were collected from the Diabetes Research Center and Clinics in Yazd using EQ-5D-3L, SF-36, and DQoL instruments. The ceiling effects were computed for the EQ-5D-3L index and EQ VAS. The construct validity was assessed by using convergent validity, discriminant validity, and known-groups validity. Reliability was assessed using Cohen’s kappa value, Cronbach’s alpha, and intra-class correlation coefficient. ResultsThe ceiling effects of EQ-5D-3L and EQ VAS were 20.18% and 15.33%, respectively. The highest degree of correlation was found between the pain/discomfort of EQ-5D and the BP scale of the SF-36 (0.55). Higher scores of all scales of the DQoL were associated with patients reporting no problems in each EQ-5D dimension. The mean of EQ-5D-3L index and EQ VAS scores were significantly higher in the male, married, and employed patients, and they did not have retinopathy, nephropathy, IHD, hypertension, DFU. The range of kappa values was from 0.39 to 0.71, and value of ICC for the EQ-5D-3L index and EQ VAS was 0.76 and 0.64, respectively. Cronbach’s alpha was 0.87 for EQ-5D-3L and 0.74 for EQ VAS. ConclusionsOur findings demonstrated good construct validity and moderate to good levels of reliability of the EQ-5D-3L for using in the patients with diabetes, and it can be used in research or clinical practice in Iran and other regions of the Middle East.

ANALISIS PERBANDINGAN KEANDALAN SISTEM JARINGAN DISTRIBUSI BERKONFIGURASI RADIAL DAN LOOP MENGGUNAKAN METODE RIA (RELIABILITY INDEX ASSESSMENT)

Electrical energy is a very important requirement for human life. The supply of electrical energy itself consists of electricity generation, power transmission and distribution. In the distribution of electricity, there are several networks that function to distribute electrical energy to customers, the majority of which are network configuration, namely radial and loop. In order to maintain the continuity of the distribution of electrical energy, a good level of reliability is required. In order to determine the reliability of the distribution system, the reliability index is determined, namely SAIFI, SAIDI and CAIDI. Several methods that can be used to find a distribution system reliability index include the RIA (Reliability Index Assessment) method, which is an approach used to predict disturbances in a distribution system based on the system topology and data regarding component reliability. In this study, we compared two configurations using one feeder, namely the Giri feeder which is assumed to have a radial configuration and a loop configuration. By using the RIA (Reliability Index Assessment) method on a Giri feeder with a radial configuration, the SAIFI reliability index is obtained at 1.595 times / year, SAIDI is 12.8092 hours / year, CAIDI is 8.0309 hours / year, while for a feeder with a loop configuration the SAIFI value is equal to 1,651 times / year, SAIDI is 1,7276 hours / year, CAIDI is 1,0416 hours / year.&#x0D; &#x0D; Keywords ­— Reliability Index, Distribution System, Reliability Index Assessment, SAIFI, SAIDI, CAIDI

Development and validity evidence of the Two-Dimensional Sexual Sensation Seeking Scale

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), mainly HIV/AIDS, are acquired through risky sexual behaviors that have been associated with sexual sensation seeking. The purpose of this work is development a new scale for the assessment of sexual sensations seeking, with evidence of validity based on internal structure and relationship to other measures, for use in young people and adults in a Latin American context. An instrumental study was performed, with time-space sampling of students from the two Chilean cities with the highest rates of HIV. Final scale has 9 items to evaluate two dimensions: (1) sexual emotions seeking; and (2) tendency to sexual boredom. The identified structure provides good levels of reliability and presents validity evidence, based on the internal structure of the test, using CFA and ESEM. Two-dimensional sexual sensation seeking scale evidence proper psychometric properties to evaluate the seeking for sexual sensations in equivalents samples.