Minimal Detectable Change Research Articles

The effect of run duration, gait variable and Lyapunov exponent algorithm on the inter-session reliability of local dynamic stability in healthy young people.

Local dynamic stability (LDS) of gait has been used to differentiate between healthy and injured populations, establishing its potential as an indicator of healthy gait and a new objective measure to assess gait function following injury. For LDS to be a reliable assessment tool of healthy gait progression during rehabilitation, it must provide consistent and sensitive inter-session measures. Methodological factors such as trial duration, gait variable, and Lyapunov Exponent (LyE) algorithm can influence LDS estimation and its reliability. Young people are a high-risk population for sport-related injuries, and running is a key activity during rehabilitation and is regularly assessed. Therefore, the effects of run duration, gait variable, and LyE algorithm choice on the reliability and sensitivity of inter-session LDS measures in young people were investigated. Sixteen healthy participants ran on a treadmill on two separate sessions (difference of 7±5days). LDS was calculated using both the Rosenstein and Wolf algorithm for durations of 1-, 2-, 3-, 4- and 5-min of knee flexion angle and medio-lateral acceleration of the pelvis and thorax from each session. The relative and absolute reliability between sessions was calculated using the intraclass correlation coefficient and standard error of measurement. The sensitivity of inter-session LDS change was quantified by the minimal detectable change. Results showed that longer run durations produced higher relative reliability and a minimum run duration of 4min is recommended to achieve moderate-to-good inter-session reliability across all gait variables and LyE algorithms. However, shorter durations of 2-3min may still be sufficient when using medio-lateral pelvis acceleration or knee flexion angle, particularly with the Rosenstein algorithm, which also improves sensitivity to change. These findings provide practical guidance for methodological choices when calculating LDS in young people during running and support their potential use as reliable tools for monitoring gait function and tracking rehabilitation progress in young people following injury.

Reliability and Validity of the Duke Activity Status Index in Bariatric Surgery Individuals Living with Obesity: Insights into Prognostic Value.

Obesity is a global health issue that complicates surgical outcomes, particularly in bariatric/metabolic surgery candidates. Assessing functional capacity is critical for optimizing preoperative planning and postoperative care. The Duke Activity Status Index (DASI) is a simple, self-administered questionnaire that estimates functional capacity based on daily activities. This study evaluates the reliability and clinical applicability of the DASI as an alternative to the 6-min walk test (6-MWT) for bariatric/metabolic surgery individuals living with obesity. This cross-sectional study included 126 individuals who are candidates for bariatric/metabolic surgery. Participants completed the DASI and 6-MWT. Test-retest reliability was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), and validity was evaluated through correlations with 6-MWT results. The agreement was measured using the standard error of measurement (SEM) and minimal detectable change (MDC). The DASI demonstrated excellent internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.86) and test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.97, 95% CI: 0.96-0.98). A strong correlation was observed between DASI and 6-MWT scores (r = 0.603; p < 0.001). ROC analysis showed an optimal cut-off score of 24.1 (AUC = 0.836), with 72.2% sensitivity and 74.1% specificity. The SEM and MDC values were 2.36 and 6.54 points, respectively. The DASI is a reliable, accessible tool for bariatric surgeons to assess functional capacity in candidates for bariatric/metabolic surgery. Its simplicity, strong correlation with performance-based measures, and minimal resource requirements make it ideal for preoperative evaluations, particularly in resource-limited settings.

Validity and Reliability of the Spanish Version of the Athlete Psychological Strain Questionnaire.

This study aims to provide data on the reliability and validity of an adapted Spanish version of the Athlete Psychological Strain Questionnaire (APSQ) when administered to Spanish athletes. A cross-sectional study was developed. Data were collected from 128 athletes (males n = 71; females n = 57). The tools used in this study were the APSQ; Kessler Psychological Distress Scale; and Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scales. The intraclass correlation coefficient was used to determine relative reliability, whereas standard error measurement and minimal detectable change were used to evaluate absolute reliability. Bland-Altman plots were employed to assess test-retest agreement and potential systematic bias. Data indicate that the Spanish version of the APSQ demonstrated satisfactory internal consistency (α: .77-.85) and generally fair to good test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient: .702; 95% CI, .602-.780). Significant associations were found between the APSQ Spanish version and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scales (ρ = .64-.82), with fair to good agreement, whereas fair to moderate levels of agreement were established between the APSQ Spanish version and the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (ρ = .53-.75). These results provide preliminary evidence supporting the use of the APSQ Spanish version for mental health screening among Spanish athletes. However, the lack of absolute reliability raises concerns about its utility for assessing the effects of interventions aimed at improving mental well-being.

Effect of apical foreshortening and transducer angulation on strain measurements: a quantitative investigation

Abstract Background Two-dimensional echocardiographic strain measurements have limited reproducibility, hampering the ability to detect subtle changes in repeated examinations. This is partly related image acquisition, including apical foreshortening and suboptimal transducer rotation and/or tilt, resulting in non-standardized imaging planes. However, the impact of image acquisitions on measured global longitudinal strain (GLS) values has not been quantified in large studies due to the labor-intensive task of measuring apical foreshortening and characterizing the imaging plane. Recent advances in echocardiographic image analysis based on deep learning (DL) may shed new light on this problem by enabling measurements of apical foreshortening and estimation of transducer angulation without human intervention. Purpose To quantify the effect of apical foreshortening and transducer rotation/tilt on GLS values. Methods To isolate the effect of foreshortening and transducer rotation/tilt on GLS values, 1395 patients without cardiac pathology were included in the analysis. For each patient, GLS was measured in the three apical views (four chamber, two chamber, long-axis) using commercial software. The same recordings were automatically analyzed using DL to obtain indicators of apical foreshortening (apex displacement in the long axis and short axis directions) and of the transducer rotation and tilt relative to the heart. Correlations between strain values and the foreshortening/rotation/tilt indicators were calculated. When significant correlation was detected, a regression analysis was performed to quantify the absolute change in GLS that can be related to foreshortening and transducer rotation/tilt. The first and last 5% quantiles of each DL indicator were excluded from these analyses. Results For each view, GLS was significantly correlated (p&amp;lt;0.05) with at least one of the foreshortening or transducer angulation indicators (Fig. 1). The regression analyses suggested that apical foreshortening and suboptimal transducer rotation/tilt can cause GLS variations up to 1.3 percentage points, representing a relative change of 6.5%. Conclusions Apical foreshortening and transducer rotation/tilt quantified using automatic DL methods were related to GLS values in a large dataset. The magnitude of the relationship suggests that apical foreshortening and transducer rotation/tilt can limit the usefulness of GLS measurements, especially in the context of repeated examinations where detecting small relative changes is important. Overall, this retrospective analysis confirms the importance of minimizing apical foreshortening and of standardizing transducer angulation to reduce minimal detectable changes in GLS and improve its reproducibility.

The 9-item Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (TSK-9) has adequate measurement properties in patients with chronic low back pain.

To assess the test-retest reliability, internal consistency, and construct validity of the 9-item Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia in patients with chronic low back pain. Questionnaire validation study. Study was conducted in an online environment. We included people aged 18 to 50 years with self-reported low back pain lasting > three months and assessed the Pain-Related Catastrophizing Thoughts Scale and the 9-item Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia. We used intraclass correlation coefficient, standard error of measurement, minimum detectable change, and Cronbach's alpha to assess the reliability and internal consistency of the 9-item Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia. We tested correlations between the domains of the 9-item Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia and the other variables to assess construct validity. A total of 174 participants with chronic low back pain were included in the analysis. No ceiling or floor effect was found. In terms of construct validity, there was a positive correlation between the domains of the 9-item Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia and the other variables. In the reliability analysis, there was adequate test-retest reliability of the two domains of the 9-item Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia: intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.99, standard error of measurement = 3.4%, and minimum detectable change = 9.6% for the activity avoidance domain; and intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.99, standard error of measurement = 3.5%, and minimum detectable change = 9.9% for the somatic focus domain. There was acceptable internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha ≥ 0.68) for both domains. The 9-item Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia has adequate measurement properties in patients with chronic low back pain.

Convergent construct validity and test-retest reliability of both German versions of the original and the revised Niigata PPPD Questionnaire: NPQ and NPQ-R

BackgroundPersistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD) is a frequent chronic functional disorder that manifests with dizziness, unsteadiness, or non-spinning vertigo present for at least 3 months. Characteristic provocation factors are moving or complex visual stimuli and exclusion of organic diseases. To assess the severity and impact of PPPD, Japanese researchers developed the Niigata PPPD Questionnaire (NPQ). The study's aim was to evaluate the concurrent construct validity and reliability [including test-retest reliability, internal consistency, standard error of measurement (SEM), and minimal detectable change (MDC)] of the German version of the NPQ (12 items) and its revised version, NPQ-R, which contains 19 items addressing additional symptoms and symptom behavior.MethodsThe Swiss Reha Rheinfelden and the German Center for Vertigo and Balance Disorders included 265 PPPD patients (mean age 50.2 ± 16.8 years, disease duration 46.3 ± 76.6 months). Patients completed the NPQ and the NPQ-R (twice), the DHI and potentially related constructs: anxiety (ABC-Scale, VSS), depression (HADS), and general health (SF-36) once. To assess the questionnaires' reliability and validity, several statistical measures were calculated, including Spearman's rank correlation coefficients, Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC2, 1), Cronbach's alpha, SEM, and MDC.ResultsOn average, patients scored 29.9 ± 13.2 for NPQ and 52.3 ± 19.6 for NPQ-R. Correlations between NPQ/NPQ-R and (1) disease-specific questionnaires were rs= 0.712 and rs= 0.752 (DHI), rs=0.426 and rs= 0.0.462 (VSS-V), rs= -0.500 and rs= -0.545 (ABC-Scale), (2) anxiety-specific subscales rs = 0.394 and rs = 0.430 (VSS-A) and rs= 0.354 and rs= 0.430 (HADS-A), (3) depression-related subscales rs=0.438 and rs= 0.487 (HADS-D), and (4) general health rs ranged between rs= -0.216 and −0.578 (all SF-36 subscales). Internal consistency, test-retest reliability, SEM and MDC calculated for NPQ/NPQ-R were α = 0.88/α = 0.91, ICC=0.83 (CI 0.77 to 0.0.87), SEM 5.55/8.37, and MDC 15/23 points.ConclusionThe German versions of NPQ and NPQ-R are valid and reliable patient-reported outcome measures for assessing PPPD, demonstrating satisfactory psychometric measurement properties including convergent construct validity and reliability parameters: internal consistency, test-retest reliability, SEM, and MDC as an evaluative measure. The NPQ-R, with its additional subscales addressing associated symptoms and symptom behavior, represents both the patient and clinician perspective on PPPD-specific problems. Therefore, we recommend utilizing the NPQ-R for a comprehensive assessment of PPPD.

Assessment of Lower Limb Muscle Volume Using 3D Ultrasonography: Validity and Reliability Compared to MRI

Introduction Muscle volume is a crucial indicator of muscle strength and neuromuscular health, traditionally assessed using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). While MRI provides high accuracy, it is costly and time-consuming. Three-dimensional ultrasonography (3DUS) offers a more accessible alternative but requires rigorous validation due to setup dependent accuracy. This study evaluates the validity and reliability of a custom 3DUS setup for measuring lower limb muscle volumes, compares it to MRI, and documents the methodology for broader research adoption. Methods We recruited 10 healthy participants (5 males, 5 females; 18–40 years). The protocol included two 3DUS sessions and one MRI session spaced one week apart. The 3DUS scans were acquired by one experienced operator, while two operators analyzed the captured volumes from the second scanning timepoint. Target muscles—biceps femoris, gastrocnemius medialis and lateralis, tibialis anterior, and vastus lateralis—were scanned using a linear probe (12L3, Siemens, Erlangen, Germany) integrated with a motion capture system (Optitrack Flex 3, NaturalPoint, Corvallis, OR, USA). Data synchronization and reconstruction were performed using 3D Slicer. MRI scans were acquired using a 3T whole-body scanner (MAGNETOM Prisma, Siemens, Erlangen, Germany), and muscle volumes were segmented using Dafne and 3D-Slicer software. Validation was enhanced with phantom models (100–600 mL) scanned via both modalities. Reliability metrics included intra-class correlation (ICC), coefficients of variation (CV%), standard error of measurement (SEM), minimal detectable change (MDC) and standardized mean bias. Results Test-retest reliability of 3DUS was high for all muscles, with ICCs ranging from 0.97 to 0.99 (95% confidence intervals between 0.86–0.99) and CV% values between 2.0 and4.6% (95% CI between 1.3–6.7%). MDC values were below 5 mL for all muscles, indicating sensitivity to detect small volume changes. The biceps femoris exhibited the highest test-retest reliability, while the gastrocnemius medialis showed lower but acceptable agreement. Inter-rater reliability was similarly high, with ICCs exceeding 0.97 (95% CIs between 0.51–0.99) for all assessed muscles and minimal variability between operators (CV%: 2.1–3.2%, 95% CIs between 1.1–4.7%). Tibialis anterior yielded the highest inter-rater reliability results, vastus lateralis the lowest. Compared to MRI, 3DUS underestimated muscle volumes, with mean biases ranging from -15.4% to -44.6%. Agreement was highest for the tibialis anterior and lowest for the gastrocnemii. Standardized mean biases were classified as moderate to very large, ranging from -0.92 to -2.64. In contrast, phantom scans confirmed high accuracy for both 3DUS and MRI, suggesting measurement errors in vivo were likely due to probe pressure and sweep inconsistencies. Discussion/Conclusion Our 3DUS system demonstrated excellent reliability for assessing muscle volumes between sessions and raters, but showed limited comparability to MRI, systematically underestimating volumes. The magnitude of underestimation appeared to be influenced by muscle architecture and location. Calibration refinements, including reduced probe pressure and optimized sweep protocols, are underway to improve accuracy. Nonetheless, 3DUS is a promising, cost-effective tool for longitudinal muscle assessments, particularly for detecting intervention-induced changes. Our openly accessible documentation of the methodology supports reproducibility and further innovation in the field.

Test–Retest Reliability and Concurrent Validity of Photoplethysmography Finger Sensor to Collect Measures of Heart Rate Variability

The purpose of the current study was to determine the test–retest reliability and concurrent validity of a photoplethysmography (PPG) finger sensor when collecting heart rate variability (HRV) metrics in reference to electrocardiography (ECG) and heart rate monitor (HRM) devices. Five minutes of R-R interval data were collected from 45 participants (23 females; age: 23.13 ± 4.45 yrs; body mass index: 25.39 ± 4.13 kg/m2) in the supine and seated positions in testing sessions 48 h apart. Moderate-to-excellent test–retest reliability of the HRV data collected from the PPG sensor was identified (ICC2,1 = 0.60–0.93). Additionally, similar standard errors of the mean, coefficient of variation, and minimal detectable change metrics were observed across all devices. Statistically significant (p &lt; 0.05) differences were identified in the HRV data between the PPG sensor and ECG and HRM devices; however, these differences were interpreted as trivial-to-small (g = 0.00–0.59). Further, the PPG sensor tended to only overestimate HRV metrics by &lt;0.5 ms and near perfect relationships (r = 0.91–1.00) and very large-to-near perfect agreement (CCC = 0.81–1.00) were identified between collection methods. The PPG sensor demonstrated adequate test–retest reliability and concurrent validity in both the supine and seated resting positions.

Confiabilidad inter-evaluador y test-retest de la prueba de alcance multidireccional sentado en jugadores de baloncesto en silla de ruedas: Una prueba clínica de campo

Being able to define the maximum functional range that a wheelchair basketball player can achieve is very important, however, the use of a clinical tool to measure reach from the sitting position is not well documented. For this purpose, the Seated Multidirectional Reach Test (SMRT) was designed as a field test to evaluate a player's performance in his action volume and detect bilateral differences in multiple directions. A study was carried out on 30 players (age = 25.02 ± 6.39) of the Argentine men's wheelchair basketball team, to analyze inter-rater (n=32) and intra-rater (n=32) reliability of the SMRT. Relative intra-rater (0.95-0.98) and inter-rater reliability (0.91-0.98) was excellent in all measurements. The standard errors of measurement (SEM) ranged from 2 to 6%, while the minimal detectable change (MDC) ranged from 9 to 16%. The findings of this study suggest that the SMRT is reliable between measurements and between evaluators, and could be an appropriate tool to use as a clinical measure of reaching performance and to describe the volume of action in wheelchair basketball players.

Test-retest reliability and responsiveness of an adapted version of the ABILHAND questionnaire to assess performance in bimanual daily life activities in stroke patients in sub-Saharan Africa.

The ABILHAND is a widely used questionnaire assessing bimanual daily life activities in adults with stroke. A recently modified version tailored for the sub-Saharan African population (ABILHAND-Stroke Benin) has been created. This study aimed to investigate its test-retest reliability and responsiveness. The study included 132 adults with stroke with a mean (SD) age = 54.6 (11.2) years and 40% women. The mean (SD) time since stroke was 15.2 (12) months for the subsample (n = 51) included in the reliability analysis and 1 (0.6) month for the subsample (n = 81) of the responsiveness analysis. Participants were assessed within a week interval with the ABILHAND-Stroke Benin questionnaire for the reliability analysis. As for the responsiveness analysis, they were additionally assessed with the ACTIVLIM-Stroke questionnaire, the Box and Block Test (BBT), and the Stroke Impairment Assessment Set, at baseline (T1), 2-month later (T2), and on average of 1.5 (0.5) years after stroke (T3). The ABILHAND-Stroke Benin questionnaire showed an excellent test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.98, P < 0.001, minimal detectable change = 10.3%). Regarding the responsiveness analysis, participants showed a larger improvement during the acute phase (T1-T2) compared with the chronic phase (T2-T3). Changes with the ABILHAND-Stroke Benin questionnaire were significantly correlated with changes with the other outcome measures (correlations ranged from 0.36 to 0.70, P < 0.05) except with the BBT less affected hand. The ABILHAND-Stroke Benin questionnaire demonstrates an excellent test-retest reliability and was responsive to changes in adults with stroke.

Clinical cut-offs for hip- and knee arthroplasty outcome- minimal clinically important improvement (MCII) and patient acceptable symptom state (PASS) of patient-reported outcome measures (PROM).

Clinical cut-offs like minimum clinically important improvement (MCII) and patient acceptable symptom state (PASS) increase the interpretability of patient reported outcome measures (PROMs), but cut-off estimates vary considerably, clouding a clear definition of a successful surgical outcome. We report estimates of MCII and PASS following hip- and knee arthroplasty using multiple methods and compare the different estimation methods. Elective hip or knee arthroplasty patients who underwent the regular pre- and postoperative assessments 2014-2018 were included. The generic EQ-5D-5L and either the Hip or Knee disability/injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS/KOOS) were used. MCII and PASS were estimated based on multiple estimation techniques. Distributions were skewed, with up to 95% being acceptable according to anchor questions. MCII estimates for HOOS/KOOS Pain ranged 21-60/10-47, with fewest in-sample misclassifications for the lowest cut-offs, provided by the 75th percentile approach. PASS estimates for HOOS/KOOS Pain ranged 84-93/78-91, for EQ-5D Index/EQ-VAS 0.87-0.92/66-79 (for hip), and 0.79-0.88/66-76 (for knee), with fewest misclassifications for the 75th percentile approach (hip) and Pythagoras approach (knee). The 75th percentile approach was the approach most often giving MCII estimates below the minimal detectable change (MDC). We report new one-year estimates of MCII and PASS of HOOS, KOOS and EQ-5D subscales following hip- and knee arthroplasty. Estimates varied considerably when using different anchors and estimation techniques. Overall, the 75th percentile approach had fewest misclassifications, and had the lowest thresholds for the MCII estimations, but which were often below the MDC.

Intra-day, short- and long-term reliability of surface electromyographic measurements during a standardized measurement protocol for lower back pain patients

Background The identification of back muscle dysfunction is a prerequisite for successful rehabilitation. Therefore, surface electromyography can be used for diagnostic and evaluative purposes. However, data quality highly depends on a) variance and inaccuracies in methodological procedures and b) on time-dependent changes, particularly in complex conditions such as chronic low back pain. Objective To assess intra-day, short-term and long-term reliability of a protocol designed for electromyographic measurements of the paraspinal muscles. Methods Three everyday tasks were selected for measurement in two healthy populations (mean age (years): 26.25/30.49 (SD: 7.05/11.03), sex-balanced). The procedure follows a detailed protocol (e.g., including ultrasound, electrode placement, movement commands). Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), standard error of measurement (SEM) and minimum detectable change (MDC) were calculated. Results Prone extension task demonstrated excellent test-retest agreement in all timespans (ICC = 0.92–0.96, SEM = 6.08–8.11, MDC = 16.85–22.49). Forward bending reliability ranged from moderate in long-term (ICC = 0.68–0.71, SEM = 1.98–2.52, MDC = 5.48–6.99) to good in intra-day (ICC = 0.76–0.89, SEM = 1.73–2.15, MDC = 4.79–5.95) to excellent in short-term assessment (ICC = 0.97, SEM = 1.07–1.21, MDC = 2.96–3.34). Sitting task showed the lowest test-retest agreement ranging between good to moderate in intra-day (ICC = 0.60–0.77, SEM = 1.22–1.26, MDC = 1.61–3.48)) and short-term reliability (ICC = 0.50–0.75, SEM = 1.24–2.06, MDC = 0.62–4.04) and moderate in long-term reliability (ICC = 0.65–0.71, SEM = 1.43–1.85, MDC = 3.95–5.12). Conclusion Using standardized procedures, surface electromyography can provide reliable data for practitioners in low back pain rehabilitation. Timespan had a limited influence on reliability compared to the type of task performed.

Reliability of Hand-Held Dynamometer Measurement for Thumb Palmar Abduction Strength in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

Background: In carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), pain and sensory disturbance are the main symptoms, but thumb palmar abduction (TPA) paralysis cannot be ignored as a concurrent symptom. The reliable quantitative measurement of TPA power was not established. The purpose of this study was to report on the reliability of TPA strength measurements by the hand-held dynamometry (HHD) in large samples of CTS and its superiority over other tests, including grip, pinch powers, TPA angles and manual muscle testing, in terms of clinical progress indicators. Methods: We examined the relative and absolute reliabilities of the perioperative TPA strength measured by HHD (HHD-TPA) in 566 participants with CTS and the correlation coefficient between the HHD-TPA and other clinical tests. Results: The reliability of the HHD-TPA was intraclass correlation coefficients: 97% or higher. The Bland-Altman absolute reliability showed a random pattern of bias, and the minimal detectable changes (MDC) of the inter-rater and intra-rater reliabilities indicated 9.0 N and 7.0 N individually. The HHD-TPA showed statistically significant recoveries between perioperative stages; however, the mean difference larger than the MDC was recognised only between the preoperative and 12-month postoperative stages by intra-rater comparison. More individual patients showed recovery of HHD-TPA beyond the MDC when the same examiner continuously measured HHD-TPA than when multiple examiners continuously measured HHD-TPA. Grip strength and pinch strength measurements showed a strong correlation with HHD-TPA and did not show statistically significant improvement during the perioperative period. Conclusions: HHD-TPA is the most reliable method for quantifying muscle strength in the perioperative course of TPA force in CTS. HHD-TPA is a more reliable assessment of CTS motor recovery when measured consistently for each patient by the same hand therapist. Level of Evidence: Level IV (Diagnostic).

Effectiveness of the handgrip test for assessing readiness in national level basketball players: a cohort study.

Assessing player readiness is crucial in elite basketball. This study aims to provide a practical method for monitoring player readiness through the handgrip test and identify associations with wellness scales. Fifteen players (age: 25.3±3.3 years; weight: 92.2±11.8 kg; height: 1.94±0.09 m; BMI: 24.3±1.8 kg/m2; experience: 6.5±3.4 years) from an elite basketball team participated in this cohort study, which was conducted over 9 weeks of training and official competitions. All players were medically cleared and injury-free for three months prior. Daily psychometric questionnaires assessed different aspects of wellness using analog scales, combined with a handgrip test. Training cycles were developed according to the Game-Day method. All parameters investigated, except the handgrip test, (means ranging from 53.43±8.06 kg to 54.03±7.79 kg) showed significant variations in the weekly training cycle (P<0.05). The linear regression results indicate that while the overall model is statistically significant (P=0.039), the predictive power of the individual independent variables is not strong, with the model able to explain approximately 4.13% of the variability in the dependent variable "Handgrip." The calculation of the minimal detectable change (MDC) confirmed that for this variable, on average, significant changes (approximately 6.77 kg) are generally required to be noteworthy. This study demonstrates that the handgrip test is not an effective tool for objectively assessing player readiness in elite basketball. Regular monitoring using this method cannot help in making informed decisions about training and competition readiness. Conversely, psychometric have shown stronger sensitivity in determining player status during the weekly training cycle.

Validity and Reliability of the M.D. Anderson Dysphagia Inventory in Turkish Patients with Neurological Disease.

Dysphagia is a prevalent symptom of various neurological diseases and is associated with decreased quality of life. The M.D. Anderson Dysphagia Inventory (MDADI) is globally utilized tool to assess the impact of dysphagia on quality of life. However, a Turkish version of the scale is not yet available. This study aimed to translate, culturally adapt, and evaluate the validity and reliability of the Turkish version of the MDADI. One hundred twenty-four patients who were diagnosed with definite neurological disease completed the study. The cross-cultural adaptation and translation process of the MDADI adhered to the World Health Organization's guidelines using the forward-backward translation method. The feasibility and the floor and ceiling effects were evaluated. Cronbach's alpha was used to assess internal consistency. The Bland and Altman method and Interclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) were used to evaluate test-retest reliability. Absolute reliability was determined using the standard error of the measurement (SEM) and minimal detectable change (MDC). Construct validity was assessed using Pearson's correlation coefficient between the MDADI and the Turkish Swallowing Quality of Life (T-SWAL-QOL) questionnaire. Our study had a feasibility rate of 100%. No floor or ceiling effects were determined for any subscale or composite scores of the T-MDADI. The T-MDADI demonstrated excellent reliability, with Cronbach's alpha coefficients ranging from 0.89 to 0.96 and ICC values from 0.81 to 0.95, confirming strong internal consistency and test-retest reliability. Measurement precision was supported by a SEM of 3.96 and an MDC of 10.97 for the composite score. In terms of validity, significant correlations were observed between T-MDADI subdomains and T-SWAL-QOL subdomains (r = 0.61-0.80 for food selection, mental health, and social functioning; r = 0.41-0.60 for eating duration and communication; p < 0.01), demonstrating good to very good convergent validity. The T-MDADI demonstrates validity and reliability as a questionnaire for assessing dysphagia-related quality of life in Turkish patients with neurological diseases.

Evaluating the Reliability and Consistency of Treadmill Gait Analysis Using an RGB-D Camera: Effects of Assistance and No Assistance.

This study aimed to assess the intraday reliability of markerless gait analysis using an RGB-D camera versus a traditional three-dimensional motion analysis (3DMA) system with and without a simulated walking assistant. Gait assessments were conducted on 20 healthy adults walking on a treadmill with a focus on spatiotemporal parameters gathered using the RGB-D camera and 3DMA system. The intraday reliability of the RGB-D camera was evaluated using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC 1, 1), while its consistency with the 3DMA system was determined using ICC (2, 1). The results demonstrated that the RGB-D camera provided high intraday reliability and showed strong consistency with 3DMA measurements regardless of the presence of an assistant. The Bland-Atman analysis indicated no significant systematic bias, with the minimum detectable change remaining within acceptable clinical ranges. These findings highlight the potential of the RGB-D camera for reliable markerless gait analysis in clinical environments in which walking assistance may be needed, thereby expanding its applicability in patients with various impairment degrees. Future research should validate these results in patient populations and explore their utility for measuring kinematic parameters.

Accelerating Performance: Reliability of Phase-Specific Measurements in Elite Speed Skaters’ 100-Meter Starts

ABSTRACT This study examined within-session reliability and minimal detectable change (MDC) in mean split time, velocity, and acceleration across 100-meter start phases (0–20, 20–50, 50–70, 70–100 m) in elite speed skaters. Nineteen skaters (10 females, 9 males) completed two trials on the same day on a 400-meter indoor ice track under standardized conditions, with split times recorded every 10-meters using an automated timing system. Results showed acceptable reliability for mean split time (ICC = 0.84, CV = 7.5%, MDC = 0.00–0.15 s) and velocity (ICC = 0.79, CV = 9.2%, MDC = 0.21–1.09 m·s− 1). Mean acceleration showed moderate reliability (ICC = 0.70, CV = 12.4%) and higher variability over greater distances (70–100 m). These findings support using the 100-meter acceleration profile to assess key performance elements (initial start and sustained acceleration), emphasizing the need to tailor training and assessments to specific race phases.

Intra- and inter-rater reliability, standard error of measurement, and minimal detectable change of the cranio-cervical flexion test in individuals with non-specific chronic neck pain.

The cranio-cervical flexion test (CCFT) is used in clinical practice to measure the activation of deep cervical flexor muscles. However, the reliability of the test has not been conducted on an adequate sample size, specifically in individuals with non-specific chronic neck pain (CNP). The aim of the present study is to investigate the intra- and inter-rater reliability, standard error of measurement (SEM), and minimal detectable change (MDC) of the CCFT in individuals with non-specific CNP. A cross-sectional study of reliability conducted at the UFSCar. Fifty-one individuals (17 men and 31 women) with non-specific CNP and aged over 18 years participated in this study. The CCFT was assessed with the Stabilizer pressure biofeedback device. Two raters conducted the test over two days, with a 5-7-days interval and a 10-min rest between raters. The activation score was determined by the level at which the participant kept activation for 10s in a single stage (22, 24, 26, 28 and 30mmHg). Appropriate statistical analysis was performed to calculate the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), SEM and MDC. Both intra-rater (ICC=0.65; 95% CI=0.46-0.78) and inter-rater reliability (ICC=0.72; 95% CI=0.55-0.83) were considered moderate. The SEM was 1.73 and 1.66 for intra-rater and inter-rater reliability, and the MDC was 4.81 to 4.60, respectively. The results of the present study indicate that CCFT is a reliable test to evaluate the activation score in individuals with chronic neck pain.

Measures of Joint Kinematic Reliability During Repeated Softball Pitching

Background/Objectives: Three-dimensional motion analysis is often used to evaluate improvements or decrements in movement patterns in athletes. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the reliability of joint flexion/extension angles of the pitching elbow and bilateral knees and hips in softball pitchers. Methods: Fourteen softball pitchers (17.9 ± 2.3 years) were tested in one session consisting of four sets of five consecutive fastballs and a second session of two sets of five fastballs. The magnitude of systematic bias and within-subject variation was calculated between pitches. An iterative intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) process was used to determine intra- and inter-session reliability, standard error of measurement and minimal detectable change. Results: Reductions in within-subject variation were observed for all variables when the number of pitches used in calculations was increased. Intra-session ICC values ranged from an average of 0.643 for pitching elbow to 0.989 for stride leg knee. Inter-session ICC values ranged from an average of 0.663 for pitching elbow to 0.996 for stride leg knee. Conclusions: Joint flexion/extension angles during the softball windmill pitch can be measured with good to high reliability using three-dimensional motion analysis. Biomechanical analysis can be confidently used to detect changes in the pitching motion over the course of a season or following an intervention.

Assessing the fall risk with Stay Independent Questionnaire in people with stroke.

This study aimed to assess the psychometric properties of the Chinese version of the Stay Independent Questionnaire (C-SIQ) in evaluating individuals with stroke. The study adopted a cross-sectional design. The research was conducted at a university-based neurorehabilitation center. The study included a total of 100 individuals with stroke and 49 healthy older adults. On Day 1, both individuals with stroke and healthy older adults underwent assessments using the C-SIQ. Additionally, individuals with stroke were evaluated using the Fugl-Meyer Assessment of Lower Extremity (FMA-LE), ankle dorsiflexion and plantarflexion strength, Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Timed-Up and Go Test (TUG), 10-meter walk test (10 mWT), Activities-specific Balance Confidence (ABC) Scale, Stroke Impact Scale (SIS), and Community Integration Measure (CIM). On Day 2 (7 days after Day 1), individuals with stroke were reassessed using the C-SIQ. Individuals with stroke exhibited a higher C-SIQ score (6.22 ± 2.98) compared to healthy older adults (1.59 ± 2.01). The C-SIQ demonstrated good test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.847) and internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.709). The Minimal Detectable Change in C-SIQ score was calculated as 3.05. Exploratory factor analysis revealed four factors with eigenvalues ≥1.0, explaining 57.17% of the total variance. The C-SIQ score exhibited significant correlations (ranging from -0.553 to 0.362) with completion times of the TUG and 10 mWT, FMA-LE, BBS, ABC, SIS, CIM score, paretic ankle dorsiflexion strength, and 6 mWT distance. A cut-off score of 2.5 was identified as the optimal threshold for discriminating fall risk between individuals with stroke and healthy controls. The C-SIQ emerges as a reliable and valid tool for evaluating fall risk in individuals with stroke, showcasing strong correlations with key measures such as TUG times, 10 mWT, FMA-LE, BBS, ABC, SIS, CIM score, paretic ankle dorsiflexion strength, and 6 mWT distance. The C-SIQ demonstrated good test-retest reliability and internal consistency. Exploratory factor analysis revealed that this is a four factors assessment tool. The identified cut-off score of 2.5 effectively distinguishes fall risk between individuals with stroke and healthy controls.