Technical Error Of Measurement Research Articles

Evaluation of the Portable Next-Generation VECTRA H2 3D Imaging System for Measuring Upper Eyelid Area and Volume.

Although a portable 3-dimensional (3D) imaging system has been used for periocular measurement analysis, this system has yet to be tested and validated for periocular area and volume measurements. The aim of this study was to define the upper eyelid and upper eyelid fold region through a modified landmark strategy and validate a portable 3D imaging system for area and volume measurements in this periocular region. Eighty-one healthy adult Caucasians underwent 3D facial imaging with the VECTRA M3 (static) and VECTRA H2 (portable) 3D imaging systems (Canfield Scientific, Inc., Parsippany, NJ). Subsequently, the upper eyelid and upper eyelid fold regions were selected according to a modified landmark localization strategy. Direct measurements of area and volume were performed to assess intrarater, interrater, intramethod, and intermethod reliability, and to compare the agreement between the 2 devices. The VECTRA M3 and H2 showed high reliability on upper eyelid area measurements. Excellent intra-, inter-, and intramethod reliability agreements were observed in intraclass correlation coefficient; very good agreement in intrarater reliability was observed in the relative error of measurement (REM) and relative technical error of measurement (rTEM); and good inter- and intramethod reliability were observed in the REM and rTEM. For area measurement of the upper eyelid fold, the intrarater, interrater, and intramethod reliability of the M3 was lower than that of the H2. Both systems had poor intrarater, interrater, and intramethod reliability for volume measurements in the upper eyelid and upper eyelid fold region. This new portable 3D imaging system achieved excellent or very good reliability values for standardized direct measurements of the upper eyelid and upper eyelid fold region, although volume measurements seem less reliable.

Reliability of Post-Mortem Computed Tomography in Measuring Foramen Magnum Dimensions

Introduction: Reliability of foramen magnum dimensions using post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT) to obtain standardized measurements for biological profiling with interest in sexual dimorphism needs to be evaluated prior to a larger scale population-based study. Method: This was a retrospective cross-sectional study of 40 Malaysian adult decedent PMCT skulls. Standardized morphometric evaluation of two foramen magnum parameters, the foramen magnum anterior-posterior diameter (FMAPD) and transverse diameter (FMTD), were performed by three readers at two separate times. Statistical analysis included intraobserver and interobserver relative technical error of measurement (RTEM), coefficients of reliability (R), and t-test. Results: Error rates (RTEM) for FMAPD demonstrated intraobserver values of 3.65–3.84% (R = 0.73–0.75, substantial reliability) and interobserver values of 4.12–5.23% (R = 0.56–0.68, moderate to substantial reliability). Error rates (RTEM) for FMTD demonstrated intraobserver values between 4.52% and 5.00% (R = 0.57–0.70, moderate to substantial reliability) and interobserver values between 5.50% and 6.38% (R = 0.48–0.64, moderate to substantial reliability). Discussion: To improve precision of a population-based study, we recommend specialized operator training in the use of PMCT software, adequate sample size, clear landmark definitions, and consideration of population affinity as a confounder.

Development of Three-Dimensional Breast Scan and Measurement Application Using Laser Imaging Detection and Ranging Sensor on iPhone.

Laser imaging detection and ranging (LiDAR) is a modern three-dimensional (3D) technology that uses a time-of-flight method based on the round-trip time of an infrared laser beam to detect the presence and features of objects. The iPhone 12 Pro is the first smart mobile device with built-in LiDAR sensors. The authors' team developed a software application based on iOS devices with built-in LiDAR sensors for 3D breast scanning and automatically analyzing the breast's geometric measurement. Breast geometry, including midclavicle-to-nipple distance, sternal notch-to-nipple distance, nipple-to-inframammary fold (IMF) distance, distance between nipples, and body circumference on nipple and IMF level were measured using the software application and tapeline. The relative technical error of measurement (rTEM) value was used to calculate the error ratios between the measurements acquired by the software application and those of the tapeline. Good rTEM values ranging from 2.99% to 5.19% were found in the midclavicle-to-nipple distance, sternal notch-to-nipple distance, distance between nipples, nipple-level circumference, and IMF-level circumference. However, there was a poor rTEM value greater than 10% in the nipple-to-IMF distance. The proposed software application using current iOS devices with built-in LiDAR sensors can provide an ideal 3D scanning system that has a low cost burden, good accuracy, portability, and ease of use.

Validity of a mobile device measuring isometric deadlift peak force

Introduction
 Muscular strength can be viewed as a product of force and velocity. Increases in both maximal force and velocity will ultimately result in an increase in power (Suchomel et al., 2016), thus contributing to performance in tasks such as athletic competition or police and military special operations.
 Testing isometric peak force is a reliable method to assess maximal strength (De Witt et al., 2018). Isometric mid-thigh pull tests and squat tests in various knee- and hip angles are well known. These tests, however, require force plates with computer and software, as well as a barbell that disallows displacement of the bar (usually a heavy equipment).
 Decentralized testing requires a reliable, lightweight and mobile measurement device comparable to standard isometric tests as described elsewhere (Maier et al., 2016). Therefore, a tension gauge (load cells) was attached to a board and a handle to perform isometric sumo stance deadlifts. The question is whether the mobile device produces comparable results to maximal isometric strength tests on force plates.
 Method
 Correlation analysis (Bayesian Pearson’s rho, Prior~Beta 1,1) and Equivalence Bayesian Paired Samples T-Tests (Lakens, 2017; Prior~Cauchy 0,0.707, a priori Limits of Agreement = +/-5%) of the measurements from the mobile test device and from force plates (CYCCESS) were performed using JASP Version 0.14.1. Healthy, trained subjects (n = 12) volunteered to perform maximal isometric deadlifts on each test device. Results were validated by additional 6 pairs of lifts on each device.
 Results
 Pearson’s rho was 0.969 (95% credible interval of the posterior distribution 0.824, 0.993). After adjusting the measures of the mobile device for the offset (mean of the differences of 416 N), Bayes factor favoring the hypothesis that the effect size lies inside the interval of +/-5% was 3.006. The additional measurements confirmed the substantial evidence for equivalence of the two measurements.
 Discussion
 Isometric tests are relatively simple, safe and time efficient to administer and possess high degrees of reliability (Grgic et al., 2022). The strong relationship between isometric peak force and deadlift 1RM (De Witt et al., 2018) makes them a valuable tool for exercise prescription. Our lightweight, mobile test device offers high precision (technical measurement error of the load cells = 0.5%) and safe testing procedure. Concurrent validity, as well as face validity, seems to be reasonably high: measurements with the mobile device do not differ from a isometric deadlift test on force plates, and lifting casualties and heavy loads could be well represented by force produced from the floor position (Bartolomei et al., 2022).
 References
 Bartolomei, S., Rovai, C., Lanzoni, I. M., & di Michele, R. (2022). Relationships between muscle architecture, deadlift performance, and maximal isometric force produced at the midthigh and midshin pull in resistance-trained individuals. Journal of Strength and Conditioniung Research, 36(2), 299-303. https://doi.org/10.1519/jsc.0000000000003455
 De Witt, J. K., English, K. L., Crowell, J. B., Kalogera, K. L., Guilliams, M. E., Nieschwitz, B. E., Hanson, A. M., & Ploutz-Snyder, L. L. (2018). Isometric midthigh pull reliability and relationship to deadlift one repetition maximum. The Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 32(2), 528-533. https://doi.org/10.1519/jsc.0000000000001605
 Grgic, J., Scapec, B., Mikulic, P., & Pedisic, Z. (2022). Test-retest reliability of isometric mid-thigh pull maximum strength assessment: A systematic review. Biology of Sport, 39(2), 407-414. https://doi.org/10.5114/biolsport.2022.106149
 Lakens, D. (2017). Equivalence tests: A practical primer for t tests, correlations, and meta-analyses. Social Psychological and Personality Science, 8(4), 355-362. https://doi.org/10.1177/1948550617697177
 Maier, T., Gross, M., Trösch, S., Steiner, T., Müller, B., Bourban, P., Schärer, C., Hübner, K., Wehrlin, J., Tschopp, M., Wilhelm, M., Clenin, G. E., Züst, P., & Seidel, R. (2016). Manual Leistungsdiagnostik [Performance diagnostics manual]. http://www.swissolympic.ch/Portaldata/41/Resources/03_sport/00_dokumente/Manual_Leistungsdiagnostik_(letzte_Aenderung_01.02.2016).pdf
 Suchomel, T. J., Nimphius, S., & Stone, M. H. (2016). The importance of muscular strength in athletic performance. Sports Medicine, 46(10), 1419-1449. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40279-016-0486-0

Veldt fires in South Africa: Implications on osteometry and the biological profile

Standard operating procedures for forensic anthropological analyses dictate that thermally altered remains should not be measured, hindering the creation of a biological profile. Few studies have addressed estimating biological parameters from burned remains, with the greatest focus of this research area being on cremated remains. However, veldt fires are more common than cremation in the South African forensic context. The aim of this study was to explore the degree of structural changes observed in domestic pig (Sus scrofa) bones associated with thermal destruction and the potential impact on the estimation of a biological profile using standard osteometric methods. A total of 96 pig femora were divided equally into two categories: fresh and dry. Within each category, equal samples were exposed to different durations of burning, namely, 5, 10, and 20 min. Ten standard femoral anthropological measurements were collected before and after burning. Technical error of measurement and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were used to assess changes in the femoral dimensions before and after burning. Most measurements were significantly different after burning, with the fresh bones decreasing in size by up to 7.8% and the dry bones decreasing in size by up to 4.0%. The magnitude of post-burning measurement changes for both burn conditions was similar to, or smaller than has previously been reported for observer measurement errors of commonly used variables investigated for standard osteometric studies. Veldt fires are less intense than cremation, thus causing less shrinkage.

Accuracy of flight time and countermovement-jump height estimated from videos at different frame rates with MyJump.

Recent improvements in smartphone video technology may provide sufficient accuracy for estimation of jump height via flight time determined from video recordings of vertical-jump tests. The aim of this study is to evaluate the accuracy of jump height estimated from videos at different frame rates. High-definition videos of 10 young adults (6 males, 4 females) performing 5 countermovement jumps were recorded at a frame rate of 1000 Hz and transcoded to frame rates of 120, 240, and 480 Hz. Flight time in the videos was assessed independently by three observers at each of the four frame rates with MyJump. Flight time and jump height were analyzed with mixed models for estimation of means and of standard deviations representing technical error of measurement (free of within-subject jump-to-jump variability) at each frame rate. The four frame rates and three observers produced practically identical estimates of mean jump height. The technical errors at 120, 240, 480 and 1000 Hz were respectively 3.4, 1.8, 1.2 and 0.8 ms for flight time, and 1.4%, 0.7%, 0.5% and 0.3% for jump height. Assessed relative to either differences in jump height between elite football players (standard deviation of ~12%) or the smallest expected test-retest variability (typical error of ~3%), the technical error was substantial at 120 Hz but negligible at 240 Hz or higher. In conclusion, use of frame rates above 240 Hz to estimate jump height with MyJump will not improve accuracy substantially.

Employing a three-stage procedure to develop a sizing system for medical gloves

There is a need for gloves that are designed based on the dimensions of the hand of each society because the proper size is a key factor that affects performance. This study aimed to design and develop a glove sizing system for Iranian healthcare workers using anthropometric data. This study was conducted on a sample including 540 healthcare workers across Iran classified by ethnicity and gender. Thirty-three dimensions were measured as the anthropometric data. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and clustering analysis were used to create classifications for glove sizes. The most effective dimensions in defining the hand sizes of Iranian healthcare workers were middle finger length and the handbreadth. The designed six-size system covered 94% of the sample. This system can be used to design suitable gloves for Iranians. The sizes presented can be used to compare size differences in different communities.

Reliability and Practical Use of a Commercial Device for Measuring Punch and Kick Impact Kinetics.

Martial arts, boxing and combat sports such as mixed martial arts participation have gained popularity in recent years internationally. One common aspect to these sports is the training and skill in maximizing strike impact of punches and kicks, referred to as impact kinetics, with commercial devices now available to assess punching and kicking power in athletes training facilities and gyms. We, therefore, assessed the reliability of a commercial device, the PowerKubeTM (Strike Research Ltd., Norwich, England) via the technical error of measurement (TEM) in both linear and non-linear simulated strikes to the center of target, off-center, level and inclined in a laboratory setting. The highest mean impact power resulted from level, center strikes (5782 ± 230 W) followed by level, off-center strikes (4864 ± 119 W, p < 0.05), inclined center strikes (4500 ± 220 W, p < 0.05), and inclined, off-center strikes (3390 ± 151). Peak power reductions ranged from 15.9% (level, off-center) to a maximum of 41.4% (incline, off-center) compared to the level, center strikes. Coaches are advised to take steps such as videoing strikes with high sampling rates to better ensure consistency in impact orientation, being perpendicular and centered on the strike pad, to best capture the peak power of kicks or punches.

Investigating error in saw mark minimum kerf width measurements.

Minimum kerf width (MKW) is often assessed in medicolegal cases of skeletal sharp force trauma and can provide information about the tool used. Previously published saw MKW research focuses on the relationship between MKW and saw blade set width (width of the saw blade including tooth set). Despite these publications using various measurement tools and methods to collect MKW, error in MKW measurements is not well-documented. The goal of this research was to investigate MKW measurement precision in terms of intraobserver error, interobserver error, and the effects of measurement modality (e.g., calipers versus stereo microscope). The study sample consisted of 351 incomplete cuts made with 27 diverse saws. MKW was collected using three methods: (1) inserting the internal caliper jaws into the incomplete kerf, (2) placing the external caliper jaws on the cortical surface, and (3) using a digital stereo microscope and associated measurement software. For each method, intraobserver error and interobserver error were assessed. Differences in measurements taken with the three measurement modalities were assessed for each observer as well. Relative technical error of measurement (rTEM) and coefficients of reliability indicate that internal caliper and stereo microscope measurements had the lowest intra- and interobserver error (rTEM=3.72% to 6.15%; r=0.98-0.996). External caliper measurements performed the worst (rTEM: intra=8.53% and inter=21.32%). There was higher precision between internal caliper and stereo microscope measurements than with the external caliper measurements. This research highlights the need for measurement standardization.

A modified 3D stereophotogrammetry-based distraction test for assessing lower eyelid tension.

To investigate the reliability of a modified three-dimensional distraction test (3D-DT) and three-dimensional pinch test (3D-PT) for assessing lower eyelid tension (LET). A cross-sectional study was conducted among 97 volunteers including 97 eyelids with no history of trauma, tumor, or reconstructive surgeries. Six three-dimensional photographs were acquired for each participant, including two photographs obtained in a neutral position (NP), two using a modified 3D-DT with a 15.9-grammes stainless steel eyelid hook performed, and two using 3D-PT. The mean absolute differences between NP, 3D-DT, and 3D-PT measurements varied between 0.07 and 7.42, 0.10 and 13.10, and 0.07 and 15.97, respectively; technical error of measurement varied between 0.05 and 7.81, 0.09 and 10.19, and 0.07 and 12.47, respectively; and relative error measurements varied between 0.10% and 11.50%, 0.16% and 30.51%, and 0.11% and 38.75%, respectively. For intra-rater reliability, the intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were more than 0.80 in seven out of eight measurements obtained in the NP and 3D-DT, whereas those obtained in the 3D-PT were as low as less than 0.30 by rater 1; the ICCs of all the measurements obtained in all the positions (NP, 3D-DT, and 3D-PT) were more than 0.80 by rater 2. For inter-rater reliability six out of eight NP and 3D-DT measurements had an ICC greater than 0.80, whereas those of 3D-PT measurements were less than 0.30. For intra-method reliability, the ICCs of all the NP measurements were more than 0.87, whereas those of the six 3D-DT measurements and four 3D-PT measurements were more than 0.80. Our study results prove that the modified 3D-DT, which involves the use of an eyelid hook, can be a highly reliable method for evaluating LET. Furthermore, this novel and simple method may be utilized as the basis for further investigation and routine pre- and postoperative clinical evaluation.

12 Reliability of Two-Person Anthropometric Measurement of Young Children with Parent Facilitator

Abstract Background Body Mass Index is recommended by the World Health Organization for the measurement of growth and the diagnosis of overweight and obesity in children. The reliability of anthropometric measurements is important for assessment of child growth due to the challenges faced when measuring younger children, including the difficulty of having the child remain still during measurement collection. The current gold-standard for anthropometric measurement collection in children in a clinical research setting, set by the World Health Organization, requires the use of two trained anthropometrists. Objectives The purpose of this study was to determine the reliability of anthropometric measurements between two trained anthropometrists working in a pair and one trained anthropometrist working with a child’s parent/caregiver in a primary healthcare setting. Design/Methods An observational study to determine measurement reliability was conducted in a primary care child research network in Canada. 76 children 0 – 5 years old had their length/height, weight, head, arm, and waist circumference measured a total of four consecutive times: twice by two trained anthropometrists working in a pair (researcher-researcher team) and twice by one trained anthropometrist working with a child’s parent/caregiver (researcher-parent team). Inter- and intra- observer reliability was calculated using the technical error of measurement (TEM), relative TEM (%TEM) and the coefficient of reliability (R). Results The %TEM values across both age groups, children 0 - &amp;lt; 2 and 2 – 5 years of age, for length/height and weight were &amp;lt; 2% and the R coefficient values were &amp;gt;0.99, indicating a high degree of inter- and intra- observer reliability. The TEM values were greater for inter- and intra- observer reliability across all age groups for length/height in comparison to other anthropometric measurement parameters, with greater variation seen in the length for children 0 - &amp;lt; 2 years of age. The TEM values across both age groups for inter- and intra- observer reliability of arm circumference was outside of the acceptable range of &amp;lt; 2%, indicating greater measurement error. There was greater variation seen in waist circumference across both age groups. Conclusion This study suggests that anthropometric measurement, including length/height and weight, taken by one trained anthropometrist with the assistance of a parent/caregiver is reliable. These findings can be used to encourage the utilization of a child’s parent/caregiver to assist with anthropometric measurement collection in clinical setting(s) to enhance feasibility and efficiency and reduce the research costs of including a second trained anthropometrist.

The accuracy and reliability of three instruments used to assign school furniture

BACKGROUND: Students spend a high number of hours being seated while at school. In order to find the correct adjustment between school furniture and the anthropometric characteristics, specific knowledge and tools are necessary. OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study is to evaluate the accuracy and reliability of the measurers with different instruments, as well as contrast the differences between the values that were obtained by the different examiners. METHODS: Measurements were taken independently by one expert examiner and two inexperienced teachers from the school. They used a measuring tape, a segmometer and an anthropometer for the anthropometric measurements. The statistical tests conducted: Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, Intraclass Correlation Coefficient, Bland and Altman method, Standard Error of Measurement, Technical Error of Measurement and relative TEM with a level of significance of ρ ≤ 0.05. RESULTS: A total of 108 students (8.87±1.67 years; 40.7% girls) participated in the study. The non-expert measurers had good accuracy and reliability, but they far exceeded the error percentages of the expert, obtaining the worst results in the shoulder measurement. The instrument with the lowest affinity between the inexperienced measurers was the anthropometer. CONCLUSIONS: In order to assign furniture in the schools, the experts should continue using the anthropometer. The inexperienced measurers can use more accessible instruments in the school environment such as a measuring tape and segmometer.

Reproducibility of Three-Dimensional Volumetric Measurement of Periocular Tumor Models.

In this study, we measured the volume of customized tumor models in the periocular area using three-dimensional (3D) stereophotogrammetry and evaluated the reproducibility of these measurements. Five tumor models of different colors and sizes were placed in different periocular positions, and 3D facial images were obtained from 68 healthy adult volunteers. Subsequently, the volumes of the tumor models were measured, and the intra- and interrater reproducibility was assessed. The gray 6mm model revealed the highest reliable measurements in both Caucasians (intra- and interrater intraclass correlation coefficients of 0.981 and 0.899, mean absolute difference of 1.446 and 3.327mm3, relative error measurement of 3.497% and 8.120%, technical error of measurement of 1.450 and 3.105mm3, and relative technical error of measurement of 3.506% and 7.580%) and Asians (0.968 and 0.844, 1.974 and 4.067mm3, 4.772% and 9.526%, 2.100 and 4.302mm3, and 5.076% and 10.076%, respectively). The highest reliability of measurements in the lateral upper eyelid (0.88 and 0.95, 4.042 and 3.626mm3, 9.730% and 9.020%, 5.714 and 3.358mm3, and 9.730% and 8.350%, respectively) and medial upper eyelid (0.81 and 0.89, 4.313 and 4.226mm3, 9.730% and 9.020%, 6.098 and 4.069mm3, and 9.730% and 8.350%, respectively) with eyes closed was evident in Caucasians, while the same trend (0.841 and 0.815, 2.828 and 3.757mm3, 9.860% and 9.840%, 4.052 and 4.308mm3, and 9.860% and 9.740%, respectively) was observed in Asians in the medial canthus with eyes closed. This study confirms, for the first time, the high reliability of periocular tumor volume measurements using 3D stereophotogrammetry, suggesting its feasibility for eyelid tumor measurement. Further trials are required to investigate its clinical use for documentation and follow-up of different eyelid tumors.

Individual physiological responses to changes in shoe bending stiffness: a cluster analysis study on 96 runners.

Shoe longitudinal bending stiffness is known to influence running economy (RE). Recent studies showed divergent results ranging from 3% deterioration to 3% improvement in RE when bending stiffness increases. The variability of these results highlights inter-individual differences. Thus, our purpose was to study the runner-specific metabolic responses to changes in shoe bending stiffness. After assessing their maximal oxygen consumption ([Formula: see text] max) and aerobic speed (MAS) during a first visit, 96 heterogeneous runners performed two treadmill 5min runs at 75% [Formula: see text] max with two different prototypes of shoes on a second day. Prototypes differed only by their forefoot bending stiffness (17N/mm vs. 10.4N/mm). RE and stride kinematics were recorded during each trial. A clustering analysis was computed by comparing the measured RE and the technical measurement error of our gas exchange analyzer to identify functional groups of runners, i.e., responding similarly to footwear interventions. ANOVAs were then computed on biomechanical and morphological variables to compare the functional groups. Considering the whole sample (n = 96), there was no significant difference in RE between the two conditions. Cluster 1 (n = 29) improves RE in the stiffest condition (2.7 ± 2.1%). Cluster 2 (n = 26) impairs RE in the stiffest condition (2.7 ± 1.3%). Cluster 3 (n = 41) demonstrated no change in RE (0.28 ± 0.65%). Cluster 1 demonstrated 1.7km·h-1 greater MAS compared to cluster 2 (p = 0.014). The present study highlights that the effect of shoe bending stiffness on RE is runner-specific. High-level runners took advantage of increased bending stiffness, whereas medium-level runners did not. Finally, this study emphasizes the importance of individual response examination to understand the effect of footwear on runner's performance.

Assessment of Inter-Instrument Reliability for Dominant Handgrip Dynamometry and Spirometry

Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine the inter-instrument reliability of different dynamometers and spirometers commonly used in clinical practice. Methods: The study involved 113 healthy volunteers across three facility sites. At each site, dominant handgrip strength (DHGS), and lung function (forced expiratory volume in one second [FEV1], forced vital capacity [FVC] and peak expiratory flow rate [PEFR]), were compared using a local and reference device. Assessments were randomized with five minutes rest between measurements. Significant differences between devices were assessed using paired t-test while relative reliability between devices was determined via intra-class correlations (ICC). Accuracy index and variability between measurements were assessed using the technical error of measurement (TEM%) and coefficient of variation (CV), respectively. Agreement between devices was determined using the Bland Altman’s plot with limits of agreement (LOA). Results: The local devices recorded significantly (p1 (3.1%-8.4%), FVC (3.1%-13%) compared to the reference devices. Good-excellent correlations (ICC=0.89-0.96), unacceptable CV (5.8-9.9%) and TEM% (6.6-9.9%), and large mean biases (3-9kg) and LOA (3-23kg) were identified between the local and reference dynamometers. Excellent correlations (ICC=0.91-0.99), and mostly unacceptable CV and TEM% were identified between the local and reference spirometers for FVC and PEFR. Compared to the reference device, all local spirometers showed unacceptable (-0.134 to -0.536 liters) and acceptable (-0.12 to 0.05 liters/second) mean biases for FVC and PEFR, respectively. Conclusion: Unacceptable inter-instrument reliability was identified between local and reference dynamometers and spirometers for measuring DHGS and all lung function indices, respectively. Across clinical settings, comparing DHGS and lung function between different brands of devices may lead to the reporting of erroneous results with corrective adjustments required for clinical practice.

Inter-individual Variability To Two Modes Of Resistance Training In The Blood Pressure Dipping Response In Males

The 24-h blood pressure (BP) in response to an acute bout of resistance training exercise (RTE) varies between individuals and has received little attention in the literature, especially in the changes in BP occurring during sleep (i.e., dipping). PURPOSE: To determine the inter-individual BP dipping variability of normotensive (NT) and hypertensive (HT) individuals completing two modalities of a single session of RTE. METHODS: Volunteers were 41 males (NT n = 21, age = 19.7 ± 2.3 yr., weight = 72.5 ± 17.3 kg, height = 171.0 ± 5.0 cm, HT n = 22, age = 21.7 ± 4.6 yr., weight = 78.1 ± 11.0 kg, height = 174.0 ± 5.0 cm) who underwent a non-exercise control (CTRL), RTE low-repetitions high-sets (LRHS), and RTE high-repetitions low-sets (HRLS) conditions. The 24-h ambulatory monitoring recorded diurnal and nocturnal systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) BP. Factorial ANOVA compared SBP and DBP dipping responses in NT and HT individuals. Inter-individual responses were obtained by comparing diurnal and nocturnal BP differences. The technical error of measurement (TEM) and the smallest worthwhile change (SWC) were used to compute a BP threshold to identify responders and non-responders. RESULTS: No significant group by measurement interaction was found on SBP (p = 0.301) and DBP (p = 0.574). Diurnal SBP was lower in the NT than in the HT groups (M = 117.4 ± 6.4 vs. 132.0 ± 8.2 mmHg, p ≤ 0.0001, η2 = 0.51). Diurnal DBP was lower in the NT than in the HT groups (M = 70.5 ± 6.2 vs. 77.7 ± 7.7 mmHg, p = 0.0001, η2 = 0.22). Nocturnal SBP was lower in the NT than in the HT groups (M = 106.6 ± 7.2 vs. 119.5 ± 8.3 mmHg, p ≤ 0.0001, η2 = 0.42). Nocturnal DBP was lower in the NT than in the HT groups (M = 60.4 ± 5.7 vs. 66.1 ± 8.2 mmHg, p = 0.014, η2 = 0.14). The dipping responders for SBP in the CTRL condition were 71.4% for NT and 70.0% for HT, in the HRLS condition were 66.7% for NT and 60.0% for HT, and in the LRHS condition were 57.1% for NT and 60.0% for HT. The dipping responders for DBP in the CTRL condition were 57.1% for NT and 60.0% for HT, in the HRLS condition were 61.9% for NT and 70.0% for HT, and in the LRHS condition were 71.4% for NT and 65.0% for HT. CONCLUSION: The inter-individual SBP dipping responders were similar between RTE modalities; however, for DBP, there were more HT responders than NT individuals completing a single session of HRLS RTE.

The repeatability of standard cranial measurements on dry bones and MSCT images.

This study examined if the cranial measurements from Data Collection Procedures for Forensic Skeletal Material 2.0 are repeatable when measured in dry bones and MSCT images and if the virtual measurements correspond to the physical ones. The sample included 33 dry crania imaged by MSCT. Two observers measured dry bones, two placed landmarks on 2D and 3D MSCT reconstructions, and one conducted measurements/landmarking on both media. One of the observers for each media repeated the measurements. Technical and relative technical error of measurement (TEM and rTEM) and percentage differences were calculated to examine the repeatability of measurements and compare measuring modalities. Intraobserver rTEM was above 1.5% for six bone measurements: FOB, ZOB, OBB, NLH, DKB, MDH (1.51%-4.87%) and for seven MSCT measurements: OBH, FOB, OBB, MDH, NLB, ZOB, DKB (1.57%-5.55%). The interobserver rTEM was above the acceptable level (>2%) for 11 measurements: PAC, NLH, OBB, EKB, MAL, FOB, NLB, OBH, ZOB, DKB, and MDH (2.01%-9.34%). The percentage differences were not systematically larger for measurements taken by the same user on both modalities than those obtained by different users on the same modality. When physical and MSCT measurements were tested on sex classification standards, the proportion of crania classified as male or female did not significantly differ (p > 0.05). The study showed that physical and virtual cranial measurements could be interchangeable for developing or applying sex estimation standards. However, clarifications and adaptations are necessary for measurements of mastoid, nasal, and orbital regions that did not meet the standard criteria.

The potential of computed tomography in odontometry: application to a Mesolithic dog

A large odontometric reference database is essential for a clear and reliable differentiation between the teeth of dogs and wolves found in archaeological contexts. However, the data compilation of skeletal material is a slow process because access to dog remains may be difficult. The expansion of a dental database could benefit from computed tomography (CT) scans performed on live dogs during medical appointments and archived in veterinary clinics. To enable it, however, the reliability and accuracy of digital measurements must first be validated. This is the main objective of this paper.We tested the accuracy of dental measurements obtained from CT scans of deceased modern dogs and one Mesolithic dog. CT measurements were obtained using multi-planar reconstruction (MPR) (bi-dimensional images) and three-dimensional volume rendering (3D VR), either using bone or soft tissue windows. Then, measurements were compared with data obtained with a conventional caliper (Fischer Darex®, France). The sample comprised 25 maxillary fourth premolars and 17 maxillary canines. Measurements included the mesiodistal length (MDL) and the vestibular palatine width (VPW). Intra- and inter-observer variations were assessed by calculating the technical error of measurement (TEM). This approach was also used to assess the level of agreement between both techniques, complemented by a Bland-Altman analysis.Intra-observer (TEM = 0.52% to 5.98%) and inter-observer variations (TEM = 3.15% to 7.14%) were relatively small for most standard measurements, windows, and CT approaches. In the case of the MPR approach, the soft tissue window provided less observer variation on the fourth premolar; the same occurred for the bone window regarding the canine. The soft tissue window generally provided less observer variation with the VR approach. CT and caliper agreement ranged from 2.89% to 7.31% (MPR), and from 2.92% to 9.42% (3D VR). At least 91% of the CT measurements were within the Bland-Altman 95% confidence interval. We were able to carry out a thorough odontometric study of the Muge dog skull – a specimen dated to the Mesolithic period, using the MPR approach (with both bone and soft tissue windows).Both the MPR and VR CT scan approaches were validated, thus confirming digital data as an alternative way to generate more comprehensive odontometric references.

Accuracy of Fully Automated 3D Imaging System for Child Anthropometry in a Low-Resource Setting: An Effectiveness Evaluation in South Sudan

ObjectivesTo evaluate accuracy of child stature (height/length) and mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) measurements produced by the AutoAnthro 3D imaging system developed by Body Surface Technology Inc following improvements to the software algorithm to improve accuracy and support automated processing, and hardware changes aimed to reduce cost.MethodsA two-stage cluster survey in Malakal Protection of Civilians (PoC) in South Sudan between September 27 and October 2, 2021. All children aged 6–59 months within selected households were eligible. For each child, manual measurements were obtained by two anthropometrists following the protocol used for the 2006 WHO Child Growth Standards (CGS) study. Scans were then captured by a different enumerator using a Samsung Galaxy 8 phone loaded with a custom software, AutoAnthro, and an Intel RealSense 3D scanner. Scans were processed using a fully automated algorithm. A multivariate logistic regression was fit to evaluate adjusted odds of achieving a successful scan. Accuracy of measurements were visually assessed using Bland-Altman (BA) plots and quantified using average bias, technical error of measurement (TEM), limits of agreement (LoA), and the 95% precision interval for individual differences.ResultsManual measurements were obtained for 539 age eligible children, from which scan derived measurements were successfully processed for 234 (43.4%) of children. Caregivers for at least 56 children (10.4%) refused consent for scan capture; additional scans were unsuccessfully transmitted to the server. Neither demographic characteristics of the children (age and sex), stature, nor MUAC were associated with availability of scan derived measurements (P > 0.05); team was significantly associated (P < 0.001). The average bias of measurements in cm was −0.5 (95% confidence interval (CI): −2.0, 1.0) for stature and + 0.7 (CI: 0.4, 1.0) for MUAC. For stature, 95% LoA was −23.9 to 22.9 cm. For MUAC, the 95% LoA was −4.0 to 5.4 cm. The TEM was 8.4 cm for stature and 1.8 cm for MUAC. All metrics of accuracy varied considerably by team.ConclusionsScan derived measurements were not of sufficient accuracy for widespread adoption. Differences in accuracy by team provide evidence that investments in training may be able to improve performance.Funding SourcesUSAID's Bureau for Humanitarian Affairs and Grand Challenges Canada.

Evaluation of dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry compared to magnetic resonance imaging for collecting measurements of the human bony pelvis.

ObjectivesImaging methods to measure the human pelvis in vivo provide opportunities to better understand pelvic variation and adaptation. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides high‐resolution images, but is more expensive than dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DXA). We sought to compare pelvic breadth measurements collected from the same individuals using both methods, to investigate if there are systematic differences in pelvic measurement between these imaging methods.MethodsThree pelvic breadth dimensions (bi‐iliac breadth, bi‐acetabular breadth, medio‐lateral inlet breadth) were collected from MRI and DXA scans of a cross‐sectional sample of healthy, nulliparous adult women of South Asian ancestry (n = 63). Measurements of MRI and DXA pelvic dimensions were collected four times in total, with one baseline data collection session and three replications. Data collected from these sessions were averaged, used to calculate technical error of measurement and entered into a Bland–Altman analysis. Linear regression models were fitted with a given MRI pelvic measurement regressed on the same measurement collected from DXA scans, as well as MRI mean bias regressed on DXA mean bias.ResultsTechnical error of measurement was higher in DXA measurements of bi‐iliac breadth and medio‐lateral pelvic inlet breadth and higher for MRI measurements of bi‐acetabular breadth. Bland Altman analyses showed no statistically significant relationship between the mean bias of MRI and DXA, and the differences between MRI and DXA pelvic measurements.ConclusionsDXA measurements of pelvic breadth are comparable to MRI measurements of pelvic breadth. DXA is a less costly imaging technique than MRI and can be used to collect measurements of skeletal elements in living people.