scholarly journals Development of an Anatomic Landmark-Based Measurement of the Achilles Tendon

2020 ◽  
Vol 5 (4) ◽  
pp. 2473011420S0047
Author(s):  
Daniel Urness ◽  
Austin R. Thompson ◽  
Erik Ensrud ◽  
James E. Meeker
Keyword(s):  
Achilles Tendon ◽  
Measurement Technique ◽  
Measurement Techniques ◽  
Correlation Coefficients ◽  
Activity Level ◽  
Measurement Tool ◽  
Rater Reliability ◽  
Anatomic Landmark ◽  
Tendon Length ◽  
Ultrasound Measurements

Category: Ankle; Sports Introduction/Purpose: Achilles tendon ruptures (ATRs) occurred with an incidence of 2.5 per 100,000 person-years in 2016. This rate has been increasing over the last decade and it has been postulated that this is due to the increasing activity level of older people. With a high and increasing incidence of such a significant injury, further investigation must be done to optimize the treatment of ATRs. The degree of tendon lengthening has been correlated with clinical outcomes, with greater elongation being associated with worse outcomes. MRI and ultrasound techniques have been validated in measurement of Achilles tendon. We sought to develop a reliable, reproducible, and accurate measurement technique utilizing the manual palpation of anatomic landmarks that will be cost effective as well as convenient to perform, particularly intraoperatively. Methods: Both lower legs of 10 healthy subjects without history of Achilles tendon injury were examined using ultrasound and anatomic landmark-based measurement techniques. Subjects sat upright on the exam table and legs were held in flexion at the knee with slight external rotation with the ankle held at 90o, allowing the lower leg to rest flat on the exam table. The length from the medial head of the gastrocnemius to the bottom of the non-compressed heal pad was measured by three raters using the ultrasound and anatomic landmark-based techniques for inter-rater reliability. The measurements were repeated one week later for intra-rater reliability. Ultrasound measurements had excellent inter-rater (0.93) and intra-rater (0.82) correlation coefficients, while good inter-rater (0.76) and intra-rater (0.86) correlation coefficients were observed among anatomic landmark-based measurements. Achilles tendon length measured with ultrasound and anatomic landmark-based techniques were compared using a paired t-test. Results: The anatomic landmark-based technique produces longer measurements of the Achilles tendon (23.2 cm (sd 2.6 cm)) compared to measurements made using ultrasound (22.4 cm (sd 2.6)) (p<0.001). On average, the anatomic landmark-based technique measures 0.8 cm (95% Confidence Interval: 0.4, 1.2) longer than the ultrasound technique. The intraclass correlation coefficient between the anatomic landmark-based and ultrasound measurements is 0.90. Conclusion: While the anatomic landmark-based technique produces a longer measurement of the Achilles tendon, it may still be a reproducible measurement tool. If the change in tendon length is of interest, this technique may be a valid and simple way to monitor that variable. Comparison with MRI may be warranted to better determine the accuracy of the anatomic landmark-based Achilles tendon measure. These results compared with MRI may set the stage for further evaluation of this measurement technique in the operating room in subjects undergoing ATR repair.

Reliability of a measurement technique for achilles tendon length

2019 ◽  
Vol 37 (20) ◽  
pp. 2389-2395
Author(s):  
Jiri Skypala ◽  
Daniel Jandacka ◽  
Joseph Hamill
Keyword(s):  
Achilles Tendon ◽  
Measurement Technique ◽  
Tendon Length ◽  
Achilles Tendon Length

scholarly journals Validation of the pediatric Radboud dysarthria assessment

2021 ◽  
pp. 1-12
Author(s):  
Marieke Ruessink ◽  
Lenie van den Engel-Hoek ◽  
Marjo van Gerven ◽  
Bea Spek ◽  
Bert de Swart ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Correlation Coefficient ◽  
Intraclass Correlation ◽  
Self Care ◽  
Reliability And Validity ◽  
Correlation Coefficients ◽  
Activity Level ◽  
Clinical Use ◽  
Spearman Correlation ◽  
Rater Reliability ◽  
Video Recordings

PURPOSE: The Radboud Dysarthria Assessment (RDA) was published in 2014. Adaptation into a pediatric version (p-RDA) was required because of relevant differences between children and adults. The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility of the p-RDA and to test intra-rater and inter-rater reliability as well as the validity of the two severity scales (function and activity level). METHODS: Video recordings were made of 35 participants with (suspected) dysarthria (age 4 to 17 years) while being assessed using the p-RDA. Intra-rater reliability was assessed by one, and inter-rater reliability by two experiments using the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC). Validity of the severity scales was tested by correlating the consensus scores with the independently rated scores on four communication scales, three mobility scales, and one self-care scale using Spearman correlation coefficients (r s). RESULTS: The assessment was applicable for 89% of the tested sample, with good intra-rater and inter-rater reliability (ICC = 0.88–0.98 and 0.83–0.93). The p-RDA severity scales (function and activity level) correlated from substantially to strongly with the communication scales (r s = 0.69–0.82 and 0.77–0.92) and self-care scale (r s = 0.76–0.71) and correlated substantially with the mobility scales (r s = 0.49–0.60). CONCLUSION: The feasibility, reliability and validity of the p-RDA are sufficient for clinical use.

Ultrasound measurements of Achilles tendon length using skin markings are more reliable than extended-field-of-view imaging

2017 ◽  
Vol 26 (7) ◽  
pp. 2088-2094 ◽  
Author(s):  
Espen Femmo Brouwer ◽  
Ståle Bergman Myhrvold ◽  
Jūratė Šaltytė Benth ◽  
Sigurd Erik Hoelsbrekken
Keyword(s):  
Achilles Tendon ◽  
Field Of View ◽  
Tendon Length ◽  
Ultrasound Measurements ◽  
Extended Field ◽  
Achilles Tendon Length ◽  
Extended Field Of View

Adaptation and Validation of a Nutrition Environment Measures Survey for University Grab-and-Go Establishments

2016 ◽  
Vol 77 (1) ◽  
pp. 17-24 ◽  
Author(s):  
Brian K.C. Lo ◽  
Leia Minaker ◽  
Alicia N.T. Chan ◽  
Jessica Hrgetic ◽  
Catherine L. Mah
Keyword(s):  
Construct Validity ◽  
Reliability And Validity ◽  
Correlation Coefficients ◽  
Comparison Method ◽  
Nutrition Information ◽  
Perfect Agreement ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Rater Reliability ◽  
University Of Toronto ◽  
Nutrition Environment

Purpose: To adapt and validate a survey instrument to assess the nutrition environment of grab-and-go establishments at a university campus. Methods: A version of the Nutrition Environment Measures Survey for grab-and-go establishments (NEMS-GG) was adapted from existing NEMS instruments and tested for reliability and validity through a cross-sectional assessment of the grab-and-go establishments at the University of Toronto. Product availability, price, and presence of nutrition information were evaluated. Cohen’s kappa coefficient and intra-class correlation coefficients (ICC) were assessed for inter-rater reliability, and construct validity was assessed using the known-groups comparison method (via store scores). Results: Fifteen grab-and-go establishments were assessed. Inter-rater reliability was high with an almost perfect agreement for availability (mean κ = 0.995) and store scores (ICC = 0.999). The tool demonstrated good face and construct validity. About half of the venues carried fruit and vegetables (46.7% and 53.3%, respectively). Regular and healthier entrée items were generally the same price. Healthier grains were cheaper than regular options. Six establishments displayed nutrition information. Establishments operated by the university’s Food Services consistently scored the highest across all food premise types for nutrition signage, availability, and cost of healthier options. Conclusions: Health promotion strategies are needed to address availability and variety of healthier grab-and-go options in university settings.

scholarly journals Respiratory Measurement Utilizing a Novel Laser Displacement Technique: Normal Tidal Breathing

2009 ◽  
Vol 43 (4) ◽  
pp. 327-331 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jeff Hargrove ◽  
Eric D. Zemper ◽  
Mary L. Jannausch
Keyword(s):  
Control Volume ◽  
Measurement Techniques ◽  
Intraclass Correlation ◽  
Correlation Coefficients ◽  
Laser Sensor ◽  
Tidal Breathing ◽  
Displacement Sensors ◽  
Respiratory Inductive Plethysmography ◽  
Volume Measurements ◽  
Inductive Plethysmography

Abstract A novel technique for achieving plethysmography measurements utilizing noncontact laser displacement sensors is described. This method may have utility in measuring respiratory and pulmonary function similar to that of respiratory inductive plethysmography. The authors describe the apparatus and method and provide results of a validation study comparing respiratory excursion data obtained by (1) the laser sensor technique, (2) standard respiratory inductive plethysmography (RIP), and (3) lung volume measurements determined by pressure variations in a control volume. Six healthy volunteers (five female, one male, ages ranging from 19 to 23 years) were measured for tidal breathing excursions simultaneously via all three measurement techniques. Results: Excellent correlation between the techniques was shown. Pairwise comparisons among all three measurement techniques across all subjects showed intraclass correlation coefficients of 0.995 in each case. These results indicate the laser plethysmograph (LP) system provides results that are, at a minimum, equivalent to those of the RIP at the two sites commonly measured by RIP. Use of the LP system has the potential to provide much more extensive and precise measurements of chest wall function and the respiratory musculature.

Validation of Sonographic Fronto-Occipital Ratio Based on Anatomical Landmarks compared to MR/CT-Derived Indexes in Children with Chiari II and Ventriculomegaly

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Michele Retrouvey ◽  
Arastoo Vossough ◽  
Alireza Zandifar ◽  
Richard D. Bellah ◽  
Gregory G. Heuer ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Pearson Correlation ◽  
Correlation Coefficients ◽  
Ventricular Volume ◽  
Coronal Plane ◽  
Anatomical Landmarks ◽  
Foramen Of Monro ◽  
Rater Reliability ◽  
Unique Challenge ◽  
Frontal Horn ◽  
Chiari Ii

Introduction: Ultrasound (US) based indexes such as fronto-occipital ratio (FOR) can be used to obtain an acceptable estimation of ventricular volume. Patients with colpocephaly present a unique challenge due to the shape of their ventricles. In the present study, we aim to evaluate the validity and reproducibility of modified US-FOR index in children with Chiari II-related ventriculomegaly. Methods: In this retrospective study, we evaluated Chiari II patients younger than one year who underwent head US and MR or CT scans for ventriculomegaly evaluation. MR/CT based FOR was measured in the axial plane by identifying the widest diameter of frontal horns, occipital horns, and the interparietal diameter (IPD). US based FOR (US-FOR) was measured using the largest diameter based on the following landmarks: frontal horn and IPD in the coronal plane at the level of the foramen of Monro, IPD just superior to the Sylvian fissures, and occipital horn posterior to the thalami and inferior to the superior margins of the thalami. Interclass correlation coefficients (ICC) were used to evaluate inter-rater reliability and Pearson correlation coefficients and Bland-Altman plots were applied to assess agreement between US and other two modalities. Results: Ninety paired US and MR/CT exams were assessed for agreement between US-FOR and MR/CT-FOR measurements. ICC showed an excellent inter-rater reliability for US-FOR (ICC=0.99, p<0.001) and MR/CT-FOR measurements (ICC=0.99, p<0.001). The mean (range) values based on US-FOR showed a slight overestimation in comparison to MR/CT-FOR [0.51 (0.36-0.68) vs 0.46 (0.34-0.64)]. Pearson correlation coefficient showed high cross-modality agreement for the FOR index (r=0.83, p<0.001). Bland-Altman plot showed excellent concordance between US-FOR and MR/CT-FOR with a bias of 0.05 (95% CI, -0.03-0.13) Conclusion: US-FOR in the coronal plane is a comparable tool for evaluating ventriculomegaly in Chiari II patients when compared with MR/CT-FOR, even in the context of colpocephaly.

scholarly journals Adaptation and Psychometric Evaluation of the Chinese Counseling Competencies Scale-Revised

2021 ◽  
Vol 12 ◽  
Author(s):  
Wei Xia ◽  
William Ho Cheung Li ◽  
Tingna Liang ◽  
Yuanhui Luo ◽  
Laurie Long Kwan Ho ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Concurrent Validity ◽  
Convergent Validity ◽  
Intraclass Correlation ◽  
Correlation Coefficients ◽  
Psychometric Evaluation ◽  
Counseling Competencies ◽  
Counselors In Training ◽  
Rater Reliability ◽  
Retest Reliability ◽  
Test Retest Reliability

Objectives: This study conducted a linguistic and psychometric evaluation of the Chinese Counseling Competencies Scale-Revised (CCS-R).Methods: The Chinese CCS-R was created from the original English version using a standard forward-backward translation process. The psychometric properties of the Chinese CCS-R were examined in a cohort of 208 counselors-in-training by two independent raters. Fifty-three counselors-in-training were asked to undergo another counseling performance evaluation for the test-retest. The confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted for the Chinese CCS-R, followed by internal consistency, test-retest reliability, inter-rater reliability, convergent validity, and concurrent validity.Results: The results of the CFA supported the factorial validity of the Chinese CCS-R, with adequate construct replicability. The scale had a McDonald's omega of 0.876, and intraclass correlation coefficients of 0.63 and 0.90 for test-retest reliability and inter-rater reliability, respectively. Significantly positive correlations were observed between the Chinese CCS-R score and scores of performance checklist (Pearson's γ = 0.781), indicating a large convergent validity, and knowledge on drug abuse (Pearson's γ = 0.833), indicating a moderate concurrent validity.Conclusion: The results support that the Chinese CCS-R is a valid and reliable measure of the counseling competencies.Practice implication: The CCS-R provides trainers with a reliable tool to evaluate counseling students' competencies and to facilitate discussions with trainees about their areas for growth.

scholarly journals Guideline for Selecting Types of Reliability and Suitable Intra-class Correlation Coefficients in Clinical Research

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Khalil Taherzadeh Chenani ◽  
Farzan Madadizadeh
Keyword(s):  
Clinical Research ◽  
Correlation Coefficients ◽  
Reliability Test ◽  
Research Information ◽  
Rater Reliability ◽  
Intra Class Correlation ◽  
Medical Researchers ◽  
Different Types ◽  
Test Retest Reliability ◽  
Cluster Correlation

Introduction: Reliability is an integral part of measuring the reproducibility of research information. Intra-cluster correlation coefficient (ICC) is one of the necessary indicators for reliability reporting, which can be misleading in terms of its diversity. The main purpose of this study was to introduce the types of reliability and appropriate ICC indices.  Methods: In this tutorial article, useful information about the types of reliability and indicators needed to report the results, as well as the types of ICC and its applications were explained for dummies. Results: Three general types of reliability include inter-rater reliability, test-retest reliability, and intra-rater reliability was presented. 10 different types of ICC were also introduced and explained. Conclusion: The research results may be misleading if any of the reliability types and calculation criteria types are chosen incorrectly. Therefore, to make the results of the study more accurate and valuable. Medical researchers must seek help from relevant guidelines such as this study before conducting reliability analysis.  

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