Intraclass Correlation Coefficient Values Research Articles

AI-Driven Segmentation and Automated Analysis of the Whole Sagittal Spine from X-ray Images for Spinopelvic Parameter Evaluation.

Spinal-pelvic parameters are utilized in orthopedics for assessing patients' curvature and body alignment in diagnosing, treating, and planning surgeries for spinal and pelvic disorders. Segmenting and autodetecting the whole spine from lateral radiographs is challenging. Recent efforts have employed deep learning techniques to automate the segmentation and analysis of whole-spine lateral radiographs. This study aims to develop an artificial intelligence (AI)-based deep learning approach for the automated segmentation, alignment, and measurement of spinal-pelvic parameters through whole-spine lateral radiographs. We conducted the study on 932 annotated images from various spinal pathologies. Using a deep learning (DL) model, anatomical landmarks of the cervical, thoracic, lumbar vertebrae, sacrum, and femoral head were automatically distinguished. The algorithm was designed to measure 13 radiographic alignment and spinal-pelvic parameters from the whole-spine lateral radiographs. Training data comprised 748 digital radiographic (DR) X-ray images, while 90 X-ray images were used for validation. Another set of 90 X-ray images served as the test set. Inter-rater reliability between orthopedic spine specialists, orthopedic residents, and the DL model was evaluated using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). The segmentation accuracy for anatomical landmarks was within an acceptable range (median error: 1.7-4.1 mm). The inter-rater reliability between the proposed DL model and individual experts was fair to good for measurements of spinal curvature characteristics (all ICC values > 0.62). The developed DL model in this study demonstrated good levels of inter-rater reliability for predicting anatomical landmark positions and measuring radiographic alignment and spinal-pelvic parameters. Automated segmentation and analysis of whole-spine lateral radiographs using deep learning offers a promising tool to enhance accuracy and efficiency in orthopedic diagnostics and treatments.

Interocular Symmetry in Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer Thickness in Children: The Hong Kong Children Eye Study.

The aim of this work is to determine the interocular differences in peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (p-RNFL) thickness and its associations among school children in Hong Kong. We conducted a population-based study including 4034 children aged 6-8years from the Hong Kong Children Eye Study (HKCES). All participants received comprehensive ocular examinations where p-RNFL thickness was measured using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). The degree of symmetry between both eyes was analyzed and represented by intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) values. Multivariable linear regression analysis was used to investigate the associations between ocular and systemic factors with p-RNFL thickness difference. The study included 4034 children with a mean age of 7.61 ± 0.98years. The mean global p-RNFL thickness was 106.60 ± 9.41μm in right eyes and 105.99 ± 9.30μm in left eyes. The ICC for global p-RNFL difference was 0.866 (95% CI 0.858-0.873, p < 0.001). The symmetry displayed the largest values in nasal inferior quadrant with the ICC value of 0.736 (95% CI 0.721-0.749); and the smallest degree of symmetry was found to be in the superior temporal quadrant with the ICC value of 0.567 (95% CI 0.546-0.588). Axial length (AL) difference was found to have more pronounced correlation to interocular symmetry in p-RNFL thickness with the coefficient of 0.514 (p < 0.001). Normal variation in interocular symmetry exists in children. Our results can contribute to the establishment of a standard reference for interocular differences in OCT parameters in children. The interocular differences in AL should be considered in the interpretation of RNFL symmetry, in terms of identifying children at risk of developing glaucoma or other ocular disorders.

An Investigation of the Validity and Reliability of Turkish Tampa Kinesiophobia Scale-Short Form in Individuals with Low Back Pain

The aim of this study was to investigate the validity and reliability of the Turkish Tampa Kinesiophobia Scale-Short Form in individuals with low back pain. A total of 111 volunteer patients aged between 30 and 65 years (mean 48±12 years) and diagnosed with mechanical low back pain were included in the study. Explanatory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were applied to the data to test the construct validity. Item-total correlations were calculated to test item discrimination and Cronbach-α values were calculated to test reliability. To determine the criterion validity, the Turkish versions of the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), the SF-36, the Fear-Avoiding Beliefs Questionnaire (FABQ), and the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ) as well as the TSK-11, which was translated into Turkish, were administered. There was no difference between the TSK-11 test and retest measurement results (P&gt;0.05). Cronbach α levels for test and retest were calculated as 0.74 and 0.81. The variance of the first factor in the factor analysis was 35.372%, indicating that the Turkish version of the TSK-11 consisted of one dimension. As a result of DFA, the TSK-11 fit index criteria in other fit indices. In the test-retest analyses of the Turkish version of TSK-11, intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) values ranged from 0.403 to 0.479, while TSK-11 Cronbach's alpha values were 0.727-0.748. There was a positive relationship between TSK-11 and FABQ, RMDQ, and VAS (r=436**, 589**, 589**, respectively), and a moderate negative relationship between TSK-11 and SF-36. In our study, the Turkish version of the TSK-11 was found to be valid and reliable. The TSK-11 can be used in clinical practice and research to evaluate fear of movement in individuals with low back pain in Turkish society.

Intraoperative assessment of hindfoot alignment using C-arm fluoroscopy

BackgroundHindfoot malalignment can cause various foot and ankle problems. For better surgical performance and correction of hindfoot malalignments, reliable intraoperative determination of hindfoot alignment is essential. However, there is no standard method for the intraoperative assessment of hindfoot alignment. We devised an intraoperative modified Méary posteroanterior (IOPPA) view to assess intraoperative hindfoot alignment. This study aimed to compare this intraoperative method with other radiographic hindfoot alignment measurements. MethodsThirty-seven patients (47 feet) with various foot and ankle conditions scheduled to undergo surgery were prospectively recruited. Before surgery, the Saltzman, long axial, and modified Méary views were taken in a controlled and standardized fashion. IOPPA views were obtained under simulated weight bearing conditions using C-arm fluoroscopy in the operating room before surgery. The relationship between the IOPPA view and the three radiographic hindfoot alignments was evaluated using Pearson's correlation. ResultsThe mean hindfoot alignment angle was varus 3.50° (CI, varus 1.91 to 5.08) on the Saltzman view, varus 2.00° (CI, varus 0.60 to 3.39) on the long axial view, varus 0.13° (CI, valgus 1.41 to varus 1.67) on the modified Méary view, and varus 1.32° (CI, valgus 0.02 to varus 2.65) on IOPPA view. The IOPPA view and the three other hindfoot alignment views were found to be significantly correlated (r = 0.60 for the Saltzman view, r = 0.50 for the long axial view, r = 0.71 for the modified Méary view, P < .05). The intraobserver ICC (Intraclass Correlation Coefficient) value was 0.974 and interobserver ICC (Intraclass Correlation Coefficient) value was 0.988 for the IOPPA view (P < .001). ConclusionThere was a statistically significant correlation between the IOPPA view and the other three hindfoot alignment views. We also found that interobserver and intraobserver ICC values were excellent. This study proposes that the IOPPA view can be used as a reliable intraoperative assessment tool for hindfoot alignment. Level of evidenceProspective study.

Evaluation of the association between osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures and psoas major/paraspinal muscle mass and ADC measured on MRI.

Evaluate magnetic resonance imaging factors associated with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures. We retrospectively reviewed 457 patients' records. Age, sex, and body mass index were recorded. Two blinded readers measured psoas major and paraspinal muscle areas at the L3 vertebral body level on transverse T2-weighted magnetic resonance images and the mean apparent diffusion coefficient values of the non-fractured vertebrae from Th12 to L5. Inter-reader reliability for continuous variables was assessed by intraclass correlation coefficients. We evaluated 210 patients (103 [49.0%] men). The osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures group was older and had lower BMI and smaller psoas major and paraspinal muscle areas than the group without vertebral compression fractures (p < 0.001). The mean apparent diffusion coefficient was weakly correlated with paraspinal muscle area in the osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures group. The intraclass correlation coefficient value was 0.83, and the intraclass correlation coefficients of the psoas major and paraspinal muscles were 0.94 and 0.97, respectively. Multivariate analysis revealed that decreased psoas major and paraspinal muscle areas and increased mean apparent diffusion coefficient values were significantly associated with the presence of osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (all p < 0.05). Psoas major and paraspinal muscle areas showed relatively high predictive accuracy (57%, 61%). Psoas major and paraspinal muscle areas at the L3 level and the mean apparent diffusion coefficient value of non-fractured vertebrae from the Th12 to L5 level were associated with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures. This may contribute to detecting the potential risk of healthy individuals developing osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures.

The German version of the Bristol breastfeeding assessment tool: A validation study

ObjectivesThis study aimed, first, to validate the Bristol Still [Breastfeeding] Assessment Tool (BSAT) through determining inter-rater reliability, construct and criterion and second, to assess if healthcare professionals viewed the tool as appropriate for use on a maternity ward. Design and settingA validation study was performed at the maternity ward of a university hospital in the German-speaking region of Switzerland. ParticipantsWe included 44 mother–newborns dyads in the validation study, and 15 healthcare professionals assessed its appropriateness for use on a maternity ward. Measurements and findingsInter-rater reliability was determined by observing 82 breastfeeding sessions, which were independently assessed by two assessors based on the criteria of the BSAT. Convergent validity was determined using the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale Short Form. Predictive validity was determined by breastfeeding status at hospital discharge. A self-developed 5-item questionnaire assessed the appropriateness of the tool for use on a maternity ward.Inter-rater reliability was good at the item level (six out of eight intraclass-correlation coefficient values were greater than 0.75 and p < 0.00). The convergent validity demonstrated a moderate positive correlation with breastfeeding self-efficacy, with a Pearson's correlation coefficient of 0.69 (Confidence Interval = 0.46–0.83, p < 0.00). The predictive validity with breastfeeding status at hospital discharge was not statistically significant with χ2(22, n = 44) = 26.98, p = 0.21). Healthcare professionals confirmed that the tool was appropriate for using in daily practice on the maternity ward. Key conclusionThe BSAT had an overall good inter-rater reliability and a moderate construct validity with the mother's breastfeeding self-efficacy level and has comparable psychometrics properties as the original. Implications for practiceWe recommend assessing breastfeeding with the BSAT and scoring it at the item level and not with a total score. Using the BSAT on maternity wards could help monitor and objectify breastfeeding practices.

A - 4 Establishing Test-Retest Reliability of Large-Scale Neural Networks after Neurotrauma: toward Clinically Useful Biomarkers.

Integrating neuropsychological assessment and resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rsfMRI) may provide crucial information about brain functioning and cognition. However, rsfMRI is not ready to be used clinically due to questions about reproducibility. This study investigated the test-retest reliability of resting-state networks in moderate-to-severe TBI using back-to-back rsfMRI scans. 51 TBI participants and 28 healthy controls received two, 10-minute rsfMRI scans separated by minutes. The data were preprocessed with fMRIPrep. XcpEngine was used to divide the brain into 264 regions based on the Power atlas, which were then grouped into 13 brain networks. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were calculated to examine the reliability of within-network connectivity (strength of a region's connection to other regions within the same network) for each network across each participant's two scans. ICCs for healthy controls varied in reliability (ICCs = 0.42-0.80). ICCs for the TBI group varied similarly (ICCs = 0.41-0.86). For both groups, the most reliable networks were the dorsal attention, visual, and sensory networks (ICCs = 0.77-0.81). The least reliable networks were the cerebellar and ventral attention networks (ICCs = 0.42-0.43). Overlapping intervals for the ICC values indicated non-significant differences in network reliability between the healthy control and TBI groups. Results suggest that within-network connectivity is more reliable in attentional and sensory networks, even after significant neurological compromise. However, the variability of within-network ICCs should continue to be explored. Alterations in network reliability may relate to changes in cognition and serve as a starting point to identify resting-state biomarkers, especially after moderate-to-severe TBI.

Sex Differences in Test-Retest Reliability of Near-Infrared Spectroscopy During Postocclusive Reactive Hyperemia of the Vastus Lateralis.

Shoemaker, ME, Smith, CM, Gillen, ZM, and Cramer, JT. Sex differences in test-retest reliability of near-infrared spectroscopy during postocclusive reactive hyperemia of the vastus lateralis. J Strength Cond Res 38(2): e40-e48, 2024-The purpose of this study was to determine test-retest reliability for vascular reactivity measures and ranges for normalization of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) variables from the vastus lateralis using postocclusive reactive hyperemia (PORH) procedure in male subjects, female subjects, and combined. Concentrations of oxygenated hemoglobin (Hb) + myoglobin (Mb) (O 2 Hb) and deoxygenated Hb + Mb (HHb) to derive total Hb + Mb (THb), difference in Hb + Mb signal (Hbdiff), and muscle tissue oxygen saturation (StO 2 ) from the vastus lateralis were measured during the PORH in 12 male subjects (age: 23.17 ± 1.77 years; stature: 180.88 ± 4.59 cm; and mass: 81.47 ± 9.68 kg) and 10 female subjects (age: 23.80 ± 2.07 years; stature: 165.95 ± 4.92 cm; and mass: 70.93 ± 10.55 kg) on 2 separate days. Adipose tissue thickness at the NIRS site was measured with ultrasonography. There were no significant differences between the mean values from visit 1 to visit 2 ( p > 0.076-0.985). In the composite sample, intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and coefficient of variation (CV) ranged from 0.35 to 0.91 and 4.74 to 39.18%, respectively. In male subjects, ICC and CV values ranged from 0.57 to 0.89 and 2.44 to 28.55%, respectively. In female subjects, ICC and CV values ranged from -0.05 to 0.75 and 7.83 to 61.19%, respectively. Although NIRS variables were overall reliable during PORH, when separated by sex, reliability in male subjects generally increased, whereas female subjects were not reliable, suggesting adipose tissue thickness may be a contributing factor. Understanding sex differences in reliability is important when using this technique for normalization or examining vascular reactivity during athletic performance. With greater utilization of NIRS monitoring in athletes to examine training adaptations, it is important for practitioners to understand the capabilities and potential limitations of the tool.

The Turkish version of Caries Impacts and Experiences Questionnaire for Children: Translation, reliability, and validity.

Caries Impacts and Experiences Questionnaire for Children (CARIES-QC) has been developed to assess the oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) associated with caries. This study aimed to evaluate the validity and reliability of the CARIES-QC in the Turkish-speaking population following its translation and adaptation into Turkish (CARIES-QC/T). Two hundred and fifty children between the ages of 5 and 16 years who have active dental caries were included in the study and answered the Turkish-translated and cross-culturally adapted final version of CARIES-QC/T. Test-retest reliability and internal consistency were used to examine the reliability of the CARIES-QC/T. Factor structure of CARIES-QC/T was analyzed using exploratory factor analysis (EFA), and convergent validity was determined. Cronbach's alpha and McDonald's ômega values were 0.907 and 0.908, respectively. For the CARIES-QC/T scale, the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) value was 0.933, and polychoric correlations ranged from 0.390 to 0.794. The convergent validity of the items revealed a statistically significant correlation with the global question (rs = 0.821, p < .001). The EFA results of CARIES-QC/T suggested a one-factor solution and explained 59.7% of the total variance. The findings provided supporting evidence that the CARIES-QC/T could be used as a tool for measuring OHRQoL in healthy Turkish-speaking children aged 5-16 years with active caries.

MRI is a Reliable Method for Measurement of Critical Shoulder Angle and Acromial Index.

Objective The objectives of this study are to compare absolute values of acromial index (AI) and critical shoulder angle (CSA) obtained in both radiographs and magnetic resonance image (MRI) of the shoulder; and to compare the interobserver and intra-observer agreement for AI and CSA values measured in these image modalities. Methods Patients who had medical indication of investigating shoulders conditions through radiographs and MRI were included. Images were taken to two fellowship-trained shoulder surgeons, which conducted measurements of AI and CSA in radiographs and in MRI. Twelve weeks after the first evaluation, a second evaluation was conducted. Inter- and intra-observer reliability was presented as an Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) and agreement was classified according to Landis & Koch criteria. The differences between two measurements were evaluated using Bland-Altman plots. Results 134 shoulders in 124 subjects were included. Mean intra-observer ICC for CSA in X-rays and in MRI were 0.936 and 0.940, respectively; for AI, 0.908 and 0.022. Mean inter-observer ICC for CSA were 0.892 and 0.752 in X-rays and MRI respectively; for AI, ICC values were 0.849 and 0.685. All individual analysis reached statistical power ( p < 0.001). Mean difference for AI values measured in X-rays and in MRI was 0.01 and 0.03 for observers 1 and 2, respectively. Mean difference for CSA values obtained in X-rays and MRI was 0.16 and 0.58 for observers 1 and 2, respectively. Conclusion Both MRI and X-rays provided high intra- and interobserver agreement for measurement of AI and CSA. Absolute values found for AI and CSA were highly correlated in both image modalities. These findings suggest that MRI is a suitable method to measure AI and CSA. Level of Evidence II , Diagnostic Study.

Translation, Cultural Adaptation, Validation and Reliability of Persian Left Ventricular Dysfunction-36 Questionnaire.

The left ventricular dysfunction 36 (LVD-36) questionnaire is considered to be a tool to assess the impact of left ventricle impairment on patients' daily life. This methodological study was aimed to translate and assess the validity and reliability of the Persian draft of the LVD-36 questionnaire among Iranian heart failure (HF) patients. We recruited stable HF patients who referred to an outpatient heart clinic in Isfahan, Iran. The LVD-36 questionnaire was translated using the forward-backward method. Twenty HF patients were recruited for content validity assessment and were asked to express their opinions about the comprehensibility and meaningfulness of each item. We invited 14 experts to assess validity through content validity index (CVI) and content validity ratio (CVR). Reliability was assessed by Cronbach's alpha and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), with the latter evaluated after invitation of the participants to complete the questionnaire for the second time. The translation process was performed uneventfully without any significant alterations. A total of 150 HF patients were recruited to assess the reliability of the questionnaire in this study (age: 64.6±16 years, males: 58.6%). All items had acceptable CVI and CVR, ranging 0.85-1.00 and 0.57-1.00, respectively. Cronbach's alpha was 0.971. All participants completed the questionnaire for the second time with no missing data. Test-retest reliability revealed an excellent ICC value of 0.981 (95% CI: 0.977-0.985). The Persian version of the LVD-36 questionnaire is a simple, valid and reliable tool for evaluating the impact of left ventricle impairment on the well-being of Iranian HF patients.

Reliability of the Pen-on-Paper Pain Drawing Analysis Using Different Scanning Procedures

IntroductionPen-on-paper pain drawing are an easily administered self-reported measure that enables patients to report the spatial distribution of their pain. The digitalization of pain drawings has facilitated the extraction of quantitative metrics, such as pain extent and location. This study aimed to assess the reliability of pen-on-paper pain drawing analysis conducted by an automated pain-spot recognition algorithm using various scanning procedures. MethodsOne hundred pain drawings, completed by patients experiencing somatic pain, were repeatedly scanned using diverse technologies and devices. Seven datasets were created, enabling reliability assessments including inter-device, inter-scanner, inter-mobile, inter-software, intra- and inter-operator. Subsequently, the automated pain-spot recognition algorithm estimated pain extent and location values for each digitized pain drawing. The relative reliability of pain extent analysis was determined using the intraclass correlation coefficient, while absolute reliability was evaluated through the standard error of measurement and minimum detectable change. The reliability of pain location analysis was computed using the Jaccard similarity index. ResultsThe reliability analysis of pain extent consistently yielded intraclass correlation coefficient values above 0.90 for all scanning procedures, with standard error of measurement ranging from 0.03% to 0.13% and minimum detectable change from 0.08% to 0.38%. The mean Jaccard index scores across all dataset comparisons exceeded 0.90. ConclusionsThe analysis of pen-on-paper pain drawings demonstrated excellent reliability, suggesting that the automated pain-spot recognition algorithm is unaffected by scanning procedures. These findings support the algorithm's applicability in both research and clinical practice.

Validation of the Romanian Version of the Halitosis Associated Life-Quality Test (HALT) in a Cross-Sectional Study among Young Adults.

Halitosis is a common condition with a significant impact on individuals' quality of life. The Halitosis Associated Life-Quality Test (HALT) is a reliable instrument for measuring this impact. This study aimed to introduce and validate the Romanian translation of the HALT questionnaire (R-HALT). We hypothesized that the R-HALT would demonstrate good reliability and validity in measuring the impact of halitosis on quality of life among Romanian teenagers and young adults. Our objectives were to translate and adapt the HALT, validate it among a cross-sectional group, and evaluate the extent of halitosis in this population. A multicentric cross-sectional design followed, which was approved by the Ethics Research Committee in Romania. The translation process involved independent translations, retro-translations, expert review, and pre-testing. The psychometric properties were evaluated among 150 patients (mean age 23.6 ± 1.8; 51% males) at dental clinics, including reliability, convergent, and discriminant validity, using accepted statistical measures such as Cronbach's alpha and Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC). The R-HALT revealed strong internal consistency with Cronbach's alpha values ranging from 0.93 to 0.96, and an ICC value of 0.87 (95% CI = 0.70-0.99), demonstrating excellent test-retest reliability. Mean scores of individual items ranged from 0.82 ± 0.94 (Q3) to 3.23 ± 1.15 (Q11). The corrected item-total correlation ranged from 0.30 (Q2) to 0.90 (Q19). Organoleptic test scores diagnosed 41% (62 patients) with a score of 2, with increasing severity in 9% (13 patients) with a score of 5. The R-HALT exhibited robust reliability and validity in assessing the impact of halitosis among Romanian teenagers and young adults. The questionnaire is a strong tool for understanding, diagnosing, and managing halitosis in Romania, ultimately aiming to improve the quality of life of affected individuals. Further studies with diverse populations could enhance the applicability of the R-HALT.

Test-Retest Reliability of Immersive Virtual Reality Measures of Perceptual-Motor Performance.

The duration, accuracy, and consistency of responses to various types of stimuli are widely accepted as indirect indicators of the efficiency of brain information processing, but current clinical tests appear to lack sufficient sensitivity to detect subtle impairments. Immersive virtual reality (VR) offers a new means to acquire measures of perceptual-motor responses to moving visual stimuli that require rapid conflict resolution, but their test-retest reliability has not yet been demonstrated. Repeated measures. We analyzed data from 19 healthy young adults who performed a 40-trial VR test on three consecutive days. We focused on response time (RT) and perceptual latency (PL) for eye, neck, arm, and whole-body step displacements involved in executing a reaching/lunging movement in a right or left direction toward a peripherally located virtual target. Measures of RT and PL included a 40-trial mean, an intra-individual variability (IIV) value, and a rate correct score (RCS) that incorporated both response duration and accuracy. Most mean and IIV values for PL and RT demonstrated a positive distributional skew that was substantially reduced by natural logarithm transformation. While a learning effect was evident between sessions 1 and 2 for 7 of 8 mean PL and RT measures, 3-session intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) values were moderate to excellent for 15 of 16 transformed PL and RT measures (range: .618 to .922). The composite RCS metric did not require transformation for either PL or RT, whose respective 3-session ICC values were .877 and .851. This moderate to excellent test-retest reliability for various VR measures of perceptual-motor function, combined with evidence of their validity from both past and future research, suggest that these measures can advance clinical detection of impaired brain processing and longitudinal assessments of potentially modifiable performance deficiencies.

Adaption and validation of simplified Chinese version of the Low Back Pain Knowledge questionnaire (sC-LKQ).

Low back pain (LBP) knowledge questionnaire (LKQ) was developed by a Brazilian research group in 2009. It has been cross-culturally adapted to many languages with good reliability and validity. This work aimed to translate and validate the LKQ into a simplified Chinese version and to evaluate the self-efficacy in LBP among Chinese participants from China and Hungary. A total of 431 people participated in this research, which lasted from September 2021 to June 2022 and was conducted on the Credamo online platform. The simplified Chinese LKQ (sC-LKQ) was generated through translation and cross-cultural adaptation guidelines. The participants were selected to fill out demographic questions, the sC-LKQ, and the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ). The reliability and validity of the data were evaluated using SPSS 28.0. The sC-LKQ showed good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha was 0.79), and the intraclass correlation value was 0.85. There were five components in the questionnaire with good construct validity. The scores of RMDQ had negatively correlated with sC-LKQ. In the Chinese population, the sC-LKQ demonstrated excellent psychometric qualities and could be used to evaluate self-efficacy in clinical practice and research.

Virtual performance measure in osteoarthritis: An innovative transformation of patient care

ObjectivesThe purpose of this study was to develop and establish reliability and validity of a virtual performance measure (VPM) score that encompassed 10 videos in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee joint. Patients’ experience and satisfaction were documented. DesignForty videos were chosen for 10 functional tasks, with four videos showing increasing difficulty for each task. Patients were requested to choose the video that best reflected their own situation. Clinical and radiological findings and self-report and performance measures were completed. ResultsData of 100 patients, 70 (70%) females, mean age: 65 ​± ​9 were examined. The Cronbach's alpha coefficient that examined internal consistency of the VPM score was 0.92. The intraclass correlation value of 0.82 was obtained for test-retest reliability. Factor analysis showed three distinct domains. There was moderate correlations between the VPM score and the self-report and actual performance measures ranging from r ​= ​0.46 to 0.66. The VPM summated score of 10 activities was able to differentiate between candidates and non-candidates for knee arthroplasty, with the area under the curve value of 0.90 indicating excellent predictive validity. The overall patient experience and satisfaction was positive with 67% of participants feeling that virtual care could have an impact on minimizing physical presence in the clinic or hospital. ConclusionsThe VPM is a reliable and valid outcome measure in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee joint. This digital tool has the potential to transform osteoarthritis care by providing a valid remote measurement of real-life functional limitations and reduce the burden of time consuming in-person tests.

Factor analysis and validation of the Bush Francis catatonia rating scale-Spain version

Background and objectivesThe aim of this study was to assess the reliability and validity of the Bush Francis Catatonia Screening Instrument and Bush Francis Catatonia Rating Scale Spain Version (BFCSI-SV and BFCRS-SV) using the ICD-11 and DSM-5 diagnostic criteria as well as other catatonia scales. MethodsOne hundred patients were admitted to the inpatient psychiatry unit at Hospital Universitari Germans Trias I Pujol and two psychiatrists administered the BFCRS-SV to the first 10 patients to assess inter-rater reliability. The BFCRS-SV, BFCSI-SV, Modified Rogers Scale (MRS), Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scales, Barnes Akathisia Rating Scale, and Modified Simpson-Angus Scale were then employed. ResultsThe results showed that 27% of patients had catatonia using the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria. Additionally, 51% of patients had 2 or more BFCRSI-SV items (Sensitivity: 100%; Specificity: 67.12%). The alpha coefficient values were 0.80 and 0.84 for the BFCSI-SV and BFCRS-SV, respectively, and the intraclass correlation coefficient values were 0.902 and 0.903. The area under the ROC curve was 0.971 and 0.96, and the instruments had a strong positive correlation with the DSM-5 score, ICD-11 score, and MRS. The study identified a three-factor model comprising the inhibition, excitement, and parakinetic dimensions. ConclusionsOverall, the results suggest that the BFCSI-SV and BFCRS-SV are valid and reliable tools for the diagnosis of catatonia, especially when using a cut-off score of 5 or higher for the BFCSI-SV and 7 or higher for the BFCRS-SV.

Excellent agreement of Norwegian trauma registry data compared to corresponding data in electronic patient records

BackgroundThe Norwegian Trauma Registry (NTR) is designed to monitor and improve the quality and outcome of trauma care delivered by Norwegian trauma hospitals. Patient care is evaluated through specific quality indicators, which are constructed of variables reported to the registry by certified registrars. Having high-quality data recorded in the registry is essential for the validity, trust and use of data. This study aims to perform a data quality check of a subset of core data elements in the registry by assessing agreement between data in the NTR and corresponding data in electronic patient records (EPRs).MethodsWe validated 49 of the 118 variables registered in the NTR by comparing those with the corresponding ones in electronic patient records for 180 patients with a trauma diagnosis admitted in 2019 at eight public hospitals. Agreement was quantified by calculating observed agreement, Cohen’s Kappa and Gwet’s first agreement coefficient (AC1) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for 27 nominal variables, quadratic weighted Cohen’s Kappa and Gwet’s second agreement coefficient (AC2) for five ordinal variables. For nine continuous, one date and seven time variables, we calculated intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).ResultsAlmost perfect agreement (AC1 /AC2/ ICC > 0.80) was observed for all examined variables. Nominal and ordinal variables showed Gwet’s agreement coefficients ranging from 0.85 (95% CI: 0.79–0.91) to 1.00 (95% CI: 1.00–1.00). For continuous and time variables there were detected high values of intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) between 0.88 (95% CI: 0.83–0.91) and 1.00 (CI 95%: 1.00–1.00). While missing values in both the NTR and EPRs were in general negligeable, we found a substantial amount of missing registrations for a continuous “Base excess” in the NTR. For some of the time variables missing values both in the NTR and EPRs were high.ConclusionAll tested variables in the Norwegian Trauma Registry displayed excellent agreement with the corresponding variables in electronic patient records. Variables in the registry that showed missing data need further examination.

Machine Independence of Ultrasound-Based Quantification of Vitreous Echodensities.

Quantitative ultrasound (QUS) provides objective indices of Vision Degrading Myodesopsia (VDM) that correlate with contrast sensitivity (CS). To date, QUS methods were only tested on a single ultrasound machine. Here, we evaluate whether QUS measurements are machine independent. In this cross-sectional study, 47 eyes (24 subjects; age = 53.2 ± 14.4 years) were evaluated with Freiburg acuity contrast testing (%Weber), and ultrasonography using 2 machines: one with a 15-MHz single-element transducer and one with a 5-ring, 20-MHz annular-array. Images were acquired from each system in sequential scans. Artifact-free, log-compressed envelope data were processed to yield three parameters (mean amplitude, M; energy, E; and percentage filled by echodensities, P50) and a composite score (C). A B-mode normalization method was applied to the 20-MHz datasets to match QUS parameters at both frequencies. Statistical analyses were performed to evaluate correlations among CS, E, M, P50, and C for both machines. QUS parameters from each machine correlated with CS (R ≥ 0.57, P < 0.001) and there was correlation between machines (R ≥ 0.84, P < 0.001). Correlations between CS and QUS parameters were statistically similar for both machines (P ≥ 0.14) except when the 20-MHz data were normalized (P = 0.04). Reproducibility of QUS parameters computed from 20-MHz data were satisfactory (52.3%-96.3%) with intraclass correlation values exceeding 0.80 (P < 0.001). The high correlation between QUS parameters from both machines combined with a statistically similar correlation to CS suggests QUS is an effective, machine-independent, quantitative measure of vitreous echodensities. QUS may be applied across clinical ophthalmic ultrasound scanners and imaging frequencies to effectively evaluate VDM.

The validity and reliability of the Juvenile Arthritis Functional Assessment Report (JAFAR) in children/adolescents with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: The Turkish version study

The aim of the study was to describe the validity and reliability of the Turkish version of Juvenile Arthritis Functional Assessment Report (JAFAR) in children/adolescents with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA). Sixty-nine children/adolescents with JIA were included in the study. JAFAR(TR)-Child and Parent forms were applied to the patients with JIA and to their parents for test retest at one-week intervals, the patients did not receive additional treatment and his/her pharmacological treatment did not change for that week. Test-retest reliability was evaluated by intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), and internal consistency reliability of multi-item subscales was evaluated by calculating Cronbach's alpha coefficient. Correlations between JAFAR(TR)-Child and Parent with the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 3.0. Module Arthritis (PedsQL), the Childhood Health Assessment Questionnaire (CHAQ), and the Juvenile Arthritis Disease Activity Score (JADAS) were evaluated to determine construct validity. The ICC value for the test/retest reliability of JAFAR(TR)-Child was 0.963 and of JAFAR(TR)-Parent was 0.576. JAFAR(TR)-Child total score had low to moderate correlations with PedsQL Child (r=-0.34; p=0.004), CHAQ (r=0.40; p=0.001), and JADAS total score (r=0.42; p=0.000). JAFAR(TR)-Parent total score had moderate to high correlations with PedsQL Parent (r=-0.55; p=0.000), CHAQ (r=0.72; p=0.000) and JADAS total score (r=0.53; p= 0.000). The Turkish version of JAFAR was found to be clinically valid and reliable in JIA.