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OpenCap is a web-based markerless motion capture platform that estimates 3D kinematics from videos recorded from at least two iOS devices. This study aimed to determine the concurrent validity and inter-session reliability of OpenCap for measuring trunk and lower-limb kinematics during squatting, hopping, countermovement jumping, and cutting. Nineteen participants (10 males, 9 females; age 27.7 ± 4.1 years) were included. Countermovement jump, single-leg triple vertical hop, single-leg squat, sidestep cutting and side hop tasks were assessed. For validity, OpenCap was compared to a marker-based motion capture system using root-mean-square error. Test–retest reliability of OpenCap was determined using intraclass correlations and minimum detectable change (MDC) from two testing sessions. The squat had the lowest RMSE across joint angles (mean = 7.0°, range = 2.9° to 13.6°). For peak angles, the countermovement jump (jump phase) (ICC = 0.62–0.93) and the squat (ICC = 0.60–0.92) had the best reliability across all joints. For initial contact, the side hop had the best inter-session reliability (ICC = 0.70–0.94) across all joint angles. As such, OpenCap validity and reliability are joint and task specific. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spiroplasma citri, the causal agent of citrus stubborn disease (CSD), causes significant losses in citrus crops. An efficient pathogen detection system is critical for epidemiology studies, particularly when a large sample size is involved. In this study, we report the development of an immunomolecular assay, immunocapture real-time polymerase chain reaction (IC-qPCR), targeting the spiralin gene for direct detection of S. citri without DNA isolation. This method can use either plant sample extracts or media in which S. citri was cultivated. The IC-qPCR protocol demonstrated a limit of detection for pure S. citri culture at a Ct value of 36.523 with a 103-fold dilution factor, making it equally sensitive as qPCR, which exhibited signal disappearance at a 10–3 dilution (Ct value of 37.484). In contrast, the immunological double-antibody sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (DAS-ELISA) test produced positive results up to a 10–2 dilution only. For S. citri-infected citrus samples, the established IC-qPCR protocol had a limit of detection at 36.46 Ct with a 1/64-fold dilution factor, matching the sensitivity of qPCR, where signal disappearance occurred at a 1/64 dilution (Ct value of 37.21). On the other hand, the immunological DAS-ELISA test yielded positive results only up to a 1/16 dilution, with optical density (OD) values of 0.364 and 0.113 for 1/16 and 1/32 dilutions, respectively. The IC-qPCR assay shows no cross-reaction for any other highly related spiroplasma species and bacteria affecting citrus trees including Candidatus liberibacter, Xylella fastidiosa, and Xanthomonas campestris pv. citri. Therefore, IC-qPCR assay provides an alternative quick and very sensitive method to screening S. citri, with the advantage of not requiring any concentration or DNA purification steps while still allowing an accurate diagnosis of CSD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We sought to determine the repeatability of EFL in healthy adults during incremental cycle exercise. We hypothesized that the repeatability of EFL would be "strong" when assessed as a binary variable (i.e., absent or present) but "poor" when assessed as a continuous variable (i.e., % tidal volume overlap). Thirty‐two healthy adults performed spirometry and an incremental cycle exercise test to exhaustion on two occasions. Standard cardiorespiratory variables were measured at rest and throughout exercise, and EFL was assessed by overlaying tidal expiratory flow‐volume and maximal expiratory flow‐volume curves. The repeatability of EFL was determined using Cohen's κ for binary assessments of EFL and intraclass correlation (ICC) for continuous measures of EFL. During exercise, n = 12 participants (38%) experienced EFL. At peak exercise, the repeatability of EFL was "minimal" (κ = 0.337, p = 0.145) when assessed as a binary variable and "poor" when measured as a continuous variable (ICC = 0.338, p = 0.025). At matched levels of minute ventilation during high‐intensity exercise (i.e., >75% of peak oxygen uptake), the repeatability of EFL was "weak" when measured as a binary variable (κ = 0.474, p = 0.001) and "moderate" when measured as a continuous variable (ICC = 0.603, p < 0.001). Our results highlight the day‐to‐day variability associated with assessing EFL during exercise in healthy adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This systematic review aimed to summarise and analyse the evidence on the reliability and validity of linear tranducers (LTs) in exercises of different nature and different modes of execution. This systematic review was carried out under PRISMA guidelines, and was carried out using three databases (PubMed, Web of Sciences, and Scopus). Of the 351 initially found, 21 were included in the qualitative synthesis. The results reflected that linear position transducers (LPTs) were valid and reliable in monitoring movement velocity in non-plyometric exercises. However, precision and reliability were lower in execution protocols without isometric phase and in the execution of exercises in multiple planes of movement, with greater measurement errors at higher sampling frequencies. On the other hand, linear velocity transducers (LVTs) proved to be valid and reliable in measuring velocity during plyometric and non-plyometric exercises performed on the Smith machine, with less variation in measurement in the latter. Finally, the use of peak values is recommended, since they are less dependent on the technological errors of LTs. Therefore, the performance of non-plyometric exercises, carried out in the Smith machine and with an isometric phase in the execution of the movement, will help to minimise the technological error of the LTs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article considers measurement system assessment for compositional data, component proportions that sum to one. The data are typically collected from a gauge R&R study, that is, an experiment. We propose a model and use it to analyze real data from a glass composition study. We also simulate data to assess the impact of the gauge R&R study design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents results on accuracy assessment of scanning procedure and of subsequent 3D printing of the object copies. The investigated object was an archeological artifact made out of burnt constructional clay, found at the archaeological site No. 6 in Gasawa, Poland, assigned to the end of 2nd or of 3rd century C.E. The analysis enabled to determine the taxonomic marking, the type and species of the tree used for the construction. The object was scanned with portable HandyScan3D device, and the repeatability of the single point identification assessed from 10 repetitions was %EV=19% for this application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Objective Materials and Methods Results Conclusion Clinical Significance This systematic review and meta‐analysis compared the accuracy of intraoral scanners and spectrophotometers in determining tooth shade.An electronic search of five databases (PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, CENTRAL) was conducted on October 19, 2023. A total of 163 studies were identified from the databases, of which 23 articles were eligible for inclusion. In vivo and in vitro quasi‐experimental studies were included. After data extraction, a quantitative analysis was performed to determine the accuracy of the intraoral scanner in subgroups using four outcomes: trueness and precision with different measurement locations. A random‐effects model was used to pool effect sizes. The pooled proportion with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was used for the effect size measure.Eleven articles were included in the meta‐analysis. Trueness with the intraoral scanner was between 0.28 (CI: 0.09–0.60) and 0.38 (CI: 0.24–0.53). Repeatability was between 0.81 (CI: 0.64–0.91) and 0.85 (CI: 0.74–0.92). Trueness showed low, and precision had moderate certainty of evidence.The trueness of shade matching with intraoral scanners is low compared to spectrophotometers, although the precision is considered high and is similar to spectrophotometers.Shade determination with intraoral scanners is not recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this research was to evaluate the reliability of the measurements of biomechanical parameters of the muscles of athletes representing different disciplines as well as untrained people. Ninety-four young, healthy male individuals participated in the study and were divided into five subgroups: footballers (n = 25), volleyballers (n = 14), handballers (n = 19), MMA fighters (n = 16), and undrained group (n = 20). All of the participants underwent measurements of stiffness (S), muscle tone (T) and elasticity (E) by two independent measurers using MyotonPro equipment. Analysis was conducted on two different parts of the quadriceps femoris: rectus femoris (RF) and vastus medialis (VM. Consequently, the comprehensive analysis comprised 564 measurements (94 participants * 3 parameters = 282 * 2 measurers = 564). The results proves high reliability of the myotonometry (Pearson’s CC over 0.8208–0.8871 for different parameters, ICC from to 0.74 to 0.99 for different muscles and parameters) excluding only stiffness for the VM which was characterized withlow ICC of 0.08 and relatively highest between the examined parameters MAE% of 8.7% which still remains low value. The most significant differences between the parameters in examined groups were observed between MMA fighters and volleyballers in terms of muscle tone and elasticity of the VM (correlation of 0.14842 and 0.15083 respecitively). These results confirm the usability of myotonometry in measuring the biomechanical properties of the muscles in different sports groups and confirm the independence of the results obtained from the person performing the measurement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One aim was to compare four classes of ewes for test-day milk yield (TDMY). The classes are the local Menz breed, the Awassi breed, and their main crossbreds (50 and 75%). Another aim was to estimate variance components to facilitate the prediction of breeding values and their accuracy. A total of 1040 TDMY records of 211 ewes were used. A univariate repeatability model with Legendre polynomial coefficients were used to model lactation curves. The 100% Awassi ewes produced significantly (p < 0.05) more milk than the other studied ewe groups within 120 Days in milk (DIM). The Local ewes produced significantly less than the other groups. Estimates of heritability (h2) and repeatability (r) of TDMY were 0.10 ± 0.08 and 0.15 ± 0.03, respectively. The genetic variance indicated for TDMY could give a genetic gain in the dissemination program if recorded for all ewes at the two centres. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Observations of genetically repeated evolution (repeatability) in complex organisms are incongruent with the Fisher–Orr model, which implies that repeated use of the same gene should be rare when mutations are pleiotropic (i.e. affect multiple traits). When spatially divergent selection occurs in the presence of migration, mutations of large effect are more strongly favored, and hence, repeatability is more likely, but it is unclear whether this observation is limited by pleiotropy. Here, we explore this question using individual-based simulations of a two-patch model incorporating multiple quantitative traits governed by mutations with pleiotropic effects. We explore the relationship between fitness trade-offs and repeatability by varying the alignment between mutation effect and spatial variation in trait optima. While repeatability decreases with increasing trait dimensionality, trade-offs in mutation effects on traits do not strongly limit the contribution of a locus of large effect to repeated adaptation, particularly under increased migration. These results suggest that repeatability will be more pronounced for local rather than global adaptation. Whereas pleiotropy limits repeatability in a single-population model, when there is local adaptation with gene flow, repeatability can occur if some loci are able to produce alleles of large effect, even when there are pleiotropic trade-offs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gait variable minimum toe clearance (MTC) has been investigated concerning trip-related fall research in older adults. However, comparing studies is difficult due to the different methods used to measure MTC and shoe conditions, which may affect agreement. Measurement methods can include using a single virtual point (SVP), multiple virtual points (MVPS), or metatarsal head markers (marker-based). The shoe types used in MTC studies include standard shoes (SS), personal shoes (PS), and barefoot (BF) conditions. What is the agreement, inter and intra-rater reliability, and repeatability for the 3 commonly used methods of measuring MTC (SVP, MVPS, marker-based) under the 3 shoe conditions for optical motion capture systems (SS, PS, BF)? Twelve healthy young adults (mean [SD] 23.8 [1.9] years,7 males) participated in this observational study. In a randomized order, participants completed 25 walking trials at self-selected normal and slow speeds in SS, PS, and BF conditions while infrared cameras recorded the maker trajectories. Each participant performed a familiarization trial for at least 1 minute before collecting data on each shoe condition. Statistical analyses included Bland-Altman 95 % limits of agreement (LOA) analyses, interclass correlation coefficient (ICC) analyses for inter- and intra-rater reliability, and the repeatability coefficient (RC). The SVP and MVPS had a tighter 95 % LOA than the marker-based method, particularly under SS and BF conditions. The inter-rater reliability was good to excellent under these shoe conditions. Intra-reliability for all methods under all shoe conditions was excellent (ICC >.90). The RC was very similar for each method, with none exceeding 1.02 cm. The study provides estimates of the agreement between MTC methods and suggests that only SVP or MVPS produced similar results in SS/BF conditions. Additionally, a "true" change in MTC requires a difference greater than 1.02 cm. • Single and multiple virtual point methods to assess MTC agreed in shoe and barefoot conditions. • The intra-rater reliability was excellent for marker and virtual point methods of assessing MTC. • "True" change in MTC requires a difference greater than 1.02 cm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The list of standard abbreviations for JDS is available at adsa.org/jds-abbreviations-24. Nonstandard abbreviations are available in the Notes. Udder conformation is directly related to milk yield, cow health, workability, and welfare. Automatic milking systems (AMS, also known as milking robots) have become popular worldwide, and the number of dairy farms adopting these systems has increased considerably over the past years. In each milking visit, AMS record the location of the 4 teats as Cartesian coordinates in an xyz plan, which can then be used to derive udder conformation traits. Because AMS generate a large amount of data for individual cows per milking visit, they can contribute to an accurate assessment of important traits such as udder conformation without the addition of human classifier errors (in subjective scoring systems). Therefore, the primary objectives of this study were to estimate genomic-based genetic parameters for udder conformation traits derived from AMS records in North American Holstein cattle and to assess the genetic correlation between the derived traits for evaluating the feasibility of multitrait genomic selection for breeding cows that are more suitable for milking in AMS. The Cartesian teat coordinates measured during each milking visit were collected by 36 milking robots in 4,480 Holstein cows from 2017 to 2021, resulting in 5,317,488 records. A total of 4,118 of these Holstein cows were also genotyped for 57,600 SNPs. Five udder conformation traits were derived: udder balance (UB, mm), udder depth (UD, mm), front teat distance (FTD, mm), rear teat distance (RTD, mm), and distance front–rear (DFR, mm). In addition, 2 traits directly related to cow productivity in the system were added to the study: daily milk yield (DY) and milk electroconductivity (EC; as an indicator of mastitis). Variance components and genetic parameters for UB, UD, FTD, RTD, DFR, DY, and EC were estimated based on repeatability animal models. The estimates of heritability (± SE) for UB, UD, FTD, RTD, DFR, DY, and EC were 0.41 ± 0.02, 0.79 ± 0.01, 0.53 ± 0.02, 0.40 ± 0.02, 0.65 ± 0.02, 0.20 ± 0.02, and 0.46 ± 0.02, respectively. The repeatability estimates (± SE) for UB, UD, FTD, RTD, and DFR were 0.82 ± 0.01, 0.93 ± 0.01, 0.87 ± 0.01, 0.83 ± 0.01, and 0.88 ± 0.01, respectively. The strongest genetic correlations were observed between FTD and RTD (0.54 ± 0.03), UD and DFR (−0.47 ± 0.03), DFR and FTD (0.32 ± 0.03), and UD and FTD (−0.31 ± 0.03). These results suggest that udder conformation traits derived from Cartesian coordinates from AMS are moderately to highly heritable. Furthermore, the moderate genetic correlations between these traits should be considered when developing selection subindexes. The most relevant genetic correlations between traits related to cow milk productivity and udder conformation traits were between UD and EC (−0.25 ± 0.03) and between DFR and DY (0.30 ± 0.04), in which both genetic correlations are favorable. These findings will contribute to the design of genomic selection schemes for improving udder conformation in North American Holstein cattle, especially in precision dairy farms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the repeatability of retinal and choroidal optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT‐A) indices among healthy children and compare it to healthy young adults. Methods: This prospective study captured 3 mm × 3 mm and 6 mm × 6 mm macular OCT‐A scans including superficial and deep retinal layers, choriocapillaris and deep choroid over two visits, 1 week apart at approximately the same time of day, for 22 healthy adults (18–30 years) and 21 children (6–15 years). Magnification and projection‐artefact corrected indices extracted using a custom image analysis program and individual biometry were compared between visits using Bland–Altman analysis and intraclass correlation (ICC). Retinal indices included foveal avascular zone metrics, perfusion and vessel density and choroidal indices included choriocapillaris flow deficit metrics and deep choroid perfusion density, in the foveal, parafoveal and perifoveal regions. Repeatability between adults and children was compared with F‐test. Results: Bland–Altman analysis showed that the mean differences between repeated OCT‐A indices were not significantly different from zero for either of the zones, layers and scan sizes in the two age groups (p > 0.05) except for foveal vessel density and foveal avascular zone perimeter (p = 0.04 for both) of 6‐mm‐deep retinal layer scans. The ICC ranged between 0.67 and 0.99. Significantly higher variability between visits (p < 0.05) in the indices was noted among adults than children, especially for choroidal indices of larger scan size. Conclusion: The retinal and choroidal OCT‐A indices in the foveal, parafoveal and perifoveal zones were repeatable in healthy children except for the foveal vessel density and foveal avascular zone perimeter of the 6‐mm‐deep retinal layer, which exhibited statistically borderline differences between visits. The adult group showed more variability between visits compared to children, especially in the larger scan size for choroidal OCT‐A indices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: SpotChecks is a new contrast sensitivity (CS) test designed for self‐monitoring of vision. This study assessed the test–retest repeatability of take‐home SpotChecks, in‐office SpotChecks and near Pelli–Robson charts in healthy adults. Methods: One eye of 61 healthy adults with near visual acuity (VA) of 6/9 or better (age range 22–84, mean 49 [18] years) was tested during two office visits (mean 10 [8] days apart). Each visit included high‐contrast VA, then 12 randomly ordered CS tests (6 different SpotChecks and 6 different Pelli–Robson) under the same lighting (luminance 110 cd/m2), all at near in the same eye with habitual correction. The same eye was self‐tested with take‐home SpotChecks once a day on 6 days between the office visits. SpotChecks was scored by the logCS at the highest line with ≥2 errors. Pelli–Robson was scored by [0.05 × number of letters read correctly − 0.15]. Repeatability of logCS was defined as 1.96 2Sw, Sw representing within‐subject standard deviation. Comparison for repeatability was performed with Bootstrap hypothesis test. Results: SpotChecks and Pelli–Robson showed similar intra‐session or inter‐visit repeatability (p = 0.14–0.81). Inter‐day repeatability for take‐home SpotChecks was 0.18 logCS, the same as that from the first measurements of two office visits with SpotChecks or Pelli–Robson. Inter‐visit repeatability improved to 0.15 by using the average of two repeated measurements for SpotChecks (p = 0.02) or three repeated measurements for Pelli–Robson (p = 0.04). Age showed a small effect on logCS (−0.015/decade, p = 0.02) for both SpotChecks and Pelli–Robson. Mean logCS was 0.05 lower in those ≥50 years (SpotChecks 1.84 [0.10] and Pelli–Robson 1.77 [0.10]) compared with those <50 years of age (SpotChecks 1.89 [0.07] and Pelli–Robson 1.83 [0.07]). Conclusions: SpotChecks showed good repeatability with take‐home and in‐office testing in healthy adults, making it a promising tool for monitoring disease progression at home. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parasitism is increasingly seen as an ecological factor contributing to behavioural variation among individuals. Yet, the causal direction of the relationship between animal personality and parasites remains unclear. We measured behavioural traits (i.e. exploration, activity, boldness) in pumpkinseed sunfish, Lepomis gibbosus , before and after an experimental infection using cages in a lake where sunfish were naturally exposed to trematode and cestode infection for 1 month. Despite our initial assumptions (i.e. that all individuals would have the same risk of infection within a cage), we found that initial behavioural traits strongly influenced infection susceptibility: initially bolder and less active fish acquired a higher density of trematode and cestode parasites during the infection period. Following infection, fish body condition decreased with increasing cestode density, suggesting that infection is costly to hosts. Body condition was positively correlated with distance moved, a measure of activity, regardless of individual infection status. The repeatability of exploration and activity behaviour and the strength of the activity–exploration correlation (i.e. behavioural syndrome) were reduced following parasite exposure. Distance moved and trematode density were negatively correlated, suggesting that this infection decreases host activity levels. Since trematodes have a complex life cycle with piscivorous birds as a final host, a decrease in activity following infection may make infected fish more susceptible to bird predation, benefiting the parasite. Our results highlight the close links between behaviour and parasitism. We propose that two mechanisms may simultaneously operate: initial host behaviour influences their risk of infection, and infection introduces variation in the behavioural traits of infected hosts. • We infected pumpkinseed sunfish using cages in a lake with high parasite prevalence. • We measured exploration, activity and boldness before and after parasite exposure. • Less active and bolder fish were more susceptible to infection within cages. • Fish body condition decreased with high density of a parasite causing liver damage. • Fish activity was reduced with trematode infection causing black spot disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this paper was to analyse the effect of the surface roughness of a deposited copper cathode on repeatability for the discharge flow rate of an electroformed micro-pump. For this purpose, a measurement set-up was assembled using a glass gauge with a threshold sensor. Each test cathode was fitted into the micro-pump and the flow rate was measured three times. The value of the standard deviation of the measured flow rate was calculated as a criterion for the repeatability of the prepared micro pump. Finally, the covariance value and correlation coefficient between each surface roughness parameter and standard deviation of flow rate were calculated and compared. The results demonstrated that the ${\rm Rz}$ Rz surface roughness parameter has the strongest relation with micro-pump flow rate repeatability using covariance analysis. Also, the auto-correlation length (ACL) that can describe the surface roughness using a correlation function has the most linear relation among all surface roughness parameters with a flow rate based on correlation analysis. SEM analysis and hydrogen bubble illustration were also reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Little is known of bandicoot and bilby (i.e. Peramelemorphia) exploratory behaviour (e.g. activity in an open field arena). In a pilot study, we assessed activity of 14 adult male northern brown bandicoots (Isoodon macrourus) in a modified open field over two nights. While we found no consistent intra-individual variation, males in poorer body condition were in better breeding condition, suggesting a possible trade-off between reproduction and maintenance. Older males with larger testes and in better breeding condition reduced activity from Day 1 to Day 2, possibly to minimise energetic expenditure. Our pilot study of the exploratory behaviour of northern brown bandicoots suggests interesting avenues for future research in Peramelemorphia behaviour generally. Bandicoots and bilbies are among the most threatened Australian mammals, but their general behaviour is poorly studied. We studied exploratory behaviour of adult male northern brown bandicoots (Isoodon macrourus), finding inter-individual variation in exploration over time. Older bandicoots that appeared to be in better breeding condition were also less exploratory, indicating a possible life-history trade-off between reproduction and maintenance. Our pilot study on bandicoot exploratory behaviour could provide insights on their potential dispersal ability and movements in their natural landscapes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Electronic components assembled in satellites should be able to withstand the vibration, noise, and impact loads generated by space vehicles during launch. To simulate the impact loading in a laboratory environment, a pyroshock test simulates an impact load resulting from explosions during the stage and pairing separation of launch vehicles, which imposes significant stress on the components, potentially leading to failures and damage. To ensure component reliability before the flight model (FM) stage, where components are mounted on the actual launch vehicle and sent into orbit, a pyroshock test is conducted during the qualification model (QM) stage using identical parts and specifications. This process involves measurements of the acceleration induced by pyroshock to calculate the shock response spectrum (SRS) and evaluate the components' reliability against the required SRS to confirm their ability to endure the shock and operate normally in post-tests. The aerospace developer determines the SRS requirements based on the space launch vehicle and the installation location of the electronic components. Configuring a suitable pyroshock test to meet these requirements typically involves extensive trial and error. This study aims to minimize such trial and error by examination of SRS changes through a numerical approach by table structural vibration analysis. The structure is subjected to in-plane impacts using a steel ball via a pendulum method. Various SRS profiles are calculated by test factors such as the weight of the steel ball, the pendulum angle, and the installation position of the test specimen. Furthermore, a genetic algorithm is utilized to derive the optimal test conditions that satisfy the required SRS. An automated pyroshock test system is developed to enhance repeatability and reduce human errors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the reliability and the level of agreement of the ADR encoder to measure the mean propulsive velocity (MPV) of the bar in the bench press (BP) exercise on the Smith machine. Eleven males (21.6 ± 1.5 years; body mass 76.05 ± 9.73 kg) performed the protocol with isometric phase prior to concentric muscle action (PP) and the protocol in the absence of isometric phase (N-PP) for BP exercise on Smith machine. ADR encoder reported reliability values with almost perfect correlations in all training zones and protocols (PP: ICC = 0.940–0.999, r = 0.899–0.997, CV = 1.56%–4.05%, SEM = 0.0022–0.0153,and MDC = 0.006–0.031 m/s; N-PP: ICC = 0.963–0.999, r = 0.946–0.998, CV = 0.70%–3.01%, SEM = 0.0012–0.0099, and MDC = 0.003–0.027 m/s). Although the levels of agreement were high in both protocols (PP: SEM = 0.0024–0.0204 m/s, MDC = 0.007–0.057 m/s; N-PP: SEM = 0.0034–0.0288 m/s, MDC = 0.009–0.080 m/s), ADR encoder considerably underestimated the MPV values in both protocols (PP: t = −2.239 to −9.486, p < 0.001–0.01; N-PP: t = −6.901 to −17.871, p < 0.001) with respect to the gold standard (T-Force). In conclusion, ADR encoder offers high reliability for the measurement of MPV in bench press exercise performed on Smith machine regardless of their execution mode, in the entire range of intensities. However, this device is not interchangeable with T-Force since it considerably underestimates the MPV values, especially at low loads (0%–40%). Furthermore, the use of too wide load ranges suggests that the data be interpreted with caution, pending further research to corroborate the findings presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Wearable near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) can be used during dynamic exercise to reflect the balance of muscle oxygen delivery and uptake. This study describes the behaviour and reliability of postexercise reoxygenation with NIRS as a function of exercise intensity at four muscle sites during an incremental cycling test. We discuss physiological components of faster and slower reoxygenation kinetics in the context of sport science and clinical applications. We hypothesised that reoxygenation would be slower at higher intensity, and that locomotor muscles would be faster than accessory muscles. We quantified test-retest reliability and agreement for each site. Methods: Twenty-one trained cyclists performed two trials of an incremental cycling protocol with 5-min work stages and 1-min rest between stages. NIRS was recorded from the locomotor vastus lateralis and rectus femoris muscles, and accessory lumbar paraspinal and lateral deltoid muscles. Reoxygenation time course was analysed as the half-recovery time (HRT) from the end of work to half of the peak reoxygenation amplitude during rest. Coefficient of variability (CV) between participants, standard error of the measurement (SEM) within participants, and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) for test-retest reliability were evaluated at 50%, 75%, and 100% peak workloads. A linear mixed-effects model was used to compare differences between workloads and muscle sites. Results: HRT was slower with increasing workload in the VL, RF, and PS, but not DL. VL had the fastest reoxygenation (lowest HRT) across muscle sites at all workloads (HRT = 8, 12, 17 s at 50%, 75%, 100% workload, respectively). VL also had the greatest reliability and agreement. HRT was sequentially slower between muscle sites in the order of VL < RF < PS < DL, and reliability was lower than for the VL. Discussion: This study highlights the potential for using wearable NIRS on multiple muscle sites during exercise. Reoxygenation kinetics differ between local muscle sites with increasing intensity. Moderate-to-good reliability in the VL support its increasing use in sport science and clinical applications. Lower reliability in other muscle sites suggest they are not appropriate to be used alone, but may add information when combined to better reflect systemic intensity and fatigue during exercise at different intensities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Running is the basis of many sports and has highly beneficial effects on health. To increase the understanding of running, DSPro® insoles were developed to collect running parameters during tasks. However, no validation has been carried out for running gait analysis. The aims of this study were to assess the test–retest reliability and criterion validity of running gait parameters from DSPro® insoles compared to a motion-capture system. Equipped with DSPro® insoles, a running gait analysis was performed on 30 healthy participants during overground and treadmill running using a motion-capture system. Using an intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), the criterion validity and test–retest reliability of spatiotemporal parameters were calculated. The test–retest reliability shows moderate to excellent ICC values (ICC > 0.50) except for propulsion time during overground running at a fast speed with the motion-capture system. The criterion validity highlights a validation of running parameters regardless of speeds (ICC > 0.70). This present study validates the good criterion validity and test–retest reliability of DSPro® insoles for measuring spatiotemporal running gait parameters. Without the constraints of a 3D motion-capture system, such insoles seem to be helpful and relevant for improving the care management of active patients or following running performance in sports contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study aims to evaluate the repeatability of radiomics and dosiomics features via image perturbation of patients with cervical cancer. After analyzing the CT image and dose maps of the 304 included cervical cancer patients, we found higher repeatability of radiomics features than dosiomics features in general. More repeatable features were observed when extracted from the original, Large-sigma Laplacian-of-Gaussian (LoG) filtered, and LLL-/LLH-wavelet filtered images. In addition, a positive correlation was found between image entropy and high-repeatable feature number, regardless of data modality. These findings highlight the potential of radiomics features for robust quantitative imaging analysis in cervical cancer patients, while suggesting the need for further refinement of dosiomics approaches to enhance their repeatability. This study aims to evaluate the repeatability of radiomics and dosiomics features via image perturbation of patients with cervical cancer. A total of 304 cervical cancer patients with planning CT images and dose maps were retrospectively included. Random translation, rotation, and contour randomization were applied to CT images and dose maps before radiomics feature extraction. The repeatability of radiomics and dosiomics features was assessed using intra-class correlation of coefficient (ICC). Pearson correlation coefficient (r) was adopted to quantify the correlation between the image characteristics and feature repeatability. In general, the repeatability of dosiomics features was lower compared with CT radiomics features, especially after small-sigma Laplacian-of-Gaussian (LoG) and wavelet filtering. More repeatable features (ICC > 0.9) were observed when extracted from the original, Large-sigma LoG filtered, and LLL-/LLH-wavelet filtered images. Positive correlations were found between image entropy and high-repeatable feature number in both CT and dose (r = 0.56, 0.68). Radiomics features showed higher repeatability compared to dosiomics features. These findings highlight the potential of radiomics features for robust quantitative imaging analysis in cervical cancer patients, while suggesting the need for further refinement of dosiomics approaches to enhance their repeatability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three-dimensional echocardiography (3DE) is currently the preferred method for monitoring left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) in cancer patients receiving potentially cardiotoxic anti-neoplastic therapy. In Denmark, however, the traditional standard for LVEF monitoring has been rooted in nuclear medicine departments utilizing equilibrium radionuclide angiography (ERNA). Although ERNA remains a principal modality, there is an emerging trend towards the adoption of echocardiography for this purpose. Given this context, assessing the reproducibility of 3DE among non-specialized medical personnel is crucial for its clinical adoption in such departments. To assess the feasibility of 3DE for LVEF measurements by technologists, we evaluated the repeatability and reproducibility of two moderately experienced technologists. They performed 3DE on 12 volunteers over two sessions, with a collaborative review of the results from the first session before the second session. Two-way intraclass correlation values increased from 0.03 to 0.77 across the sessions. This increase in agreement was mainly due to the recognition of false low measurements. Our findings underscore the importance of incorporating reproducibility exercises in the context of 3DE, especially when operated by technologists. Additionally, routine control of the acquisitions by physicians is deemed necessary. Ensuring these hurdles are adequately managed enables the adoption of 3DE for LVEF measurements by technologists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the repeatability and reproducibility of a new method for centration analysis after small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) and femtosecond laser-assisted LASIK (FS-LASIK). Methods: This study comprised 29 eyes treated with SMILE and 24 with FS-LASIK. Decentrations were analyzed using tangential and pachymetry difference maps respectively. Both difference maps were generated with a Scheimpflug tomographer (Pentacam) for each eye, using preoperative and 3-month postoperative scans. Repeatability and reproducibility were evaluated by calculating the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), within-subject standard deviation (Sw), and coefficient of repeatability (CR). Results: ICC, Sw, and CR showed good to excellent repeatability in locating the coordinates of the optical zone (OZ) center on both maps, with values ranging from 0.84 to 0.96, 0.03 to 0.13, and 0.08 to 0.36 respectively. The repeatability of the total decentration from the preoperative corneal vertex on the tangential curvature difference maps( d TC ) and the pachymetry difference maps( d PC ) were moderate and good, respectively. The ICC, Sw, and CR of d TC were 0.63, 0.09, and 0.25, respectively. The ICC, Sw, and CR of d PC were 0.77, 0.10, and 0.28, respectively. The reproducibility of the OZ center measurements was excellent for the tangential difference maps (ICC ≥ 0.97 ) and good for the pachymetry difference maps (ICC ≥ 0.86). ICC, Sw, and CR showed excellent reproducibility of d TC , with values of 0.95, 0.03, and 0.08, respectively. ICC, Sw, and CR showed good reproducibility of d PC , with values of 0.89, 0.06, and 0.17, respectively. Conclusion: The centration analysis method used in this study showed good to excellent repeatability and reproducibility in locating the coordinates of the center of the OZ on the tangential and pachymetry difference maps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary The advent of modern data collection and processing techniques has seen the size, scale and complexity of data grow exponentially. A seminal step in leveraging these rich datasets for downstream inference is understanding the characteristics of the data which are repeatable—the aspects of the data that are able to be identified under duplicated analyses. Conflictingly, the utility of traditional repeatability measures, such as the intra‐class correlation coefficient, under these settings is limited. In recent work, novel data repeatability measures have been introduced in the context where a set of subjects are measured twice or more, including: fingerprinting, rank sums and generalisations of the intra‐class correlation coefficient. However, the relationships between, and the best practices among, these measures remains largely unknown. In this manuscript, we formalise a novel repeatability measure, discriminability. We show that it is deterministically linked with the intra‐class correlation coefficients under univariate random effect models and has the desired property of optimal accuracy for inferential tasks using multivariate measurements. Additionally, we overview and systematically compare existing repeatability statistics with discriminability, using both theoretical results and simulations. We show that the rank sum statistic is deterministically linked to a consistent estimator of discriminability. The statistical power of permutation tests derived from these measures are compared numerically under Gaussian and non‐Gaussian settings, with and without simulated batch effects. Motivated by both theoretical and empirical results, we provide methodological recommendations for each benchmark setting to serve as a resource for future analyses. We believe these recommendations will play an important role towards improving repeatability in fields such as functional magnetic resonance imaging, genomics, pharmacology and more. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mechanically driven light generation is an intriguing phenomenon holding great promise in various fields. However, the existing mechanoluminescence (ML) materials always suffer from poor self‐recoverability, low repeatability, and environmental disturbance, severely hindering their practical applications. In this work, a self‐activating ML system based on interfacial triboelectrification is created by compositing the Ca6BaP4O17:0.02Ce3+ powders into a flexible polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) matrix. With no need for pre‐irradiation, the composite film emits self‐activating and self‐charging ML simultaneously in response to the rubbing or stretching stimuli. Accordingly, the Ca6BaP4O17:0.02Ce3+/PDMS exhibits desirable self‐recovery and repeatable ML performance, which could still be recorded (or observed by naked eyes) even after ca. 1000 stretching cycles with a fast self‐recovery period of < 0.1 s. Furthermore, the Ca6BaP4O17:0.02Ce3+/PDMS possesses good thermal stability in a temperature range from 298 to 473 K. The developed Ca6BaP4O17:0.02Ce3+/PDMS is applicable to various fields, and the dual‐mode information storage and photonic skin devices are created as representatives. Compared to the existing oxide‐based ML materials (the ML signal disappears after only several or tens of rapid mechanics cycles), this work breaks through the bottleneck issues on the self‐recoverability, repeatability, and thermal stability, which significantly advances the ML field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of doping with holmium (Ho) and erbium (Er) rare-earth elements (REE) on the main parameters and characteristics of photocells based on p-GaSe/n-InSe heterostructures has been experimentally studied. Photo-electromotive force measurements were performed for undoped and rare-earth doped samples and obtained results comparatively analyzed. The light characteristic of the samples shows that significant improvement are observed in the rare-earth doped crystals. The possibility of targeted control, as well as increasing their reproducibility and stability by changing the content of the introduced impurity (NREE), is shown. The optimal situation is provided by alloying Er with NREE≈10−1 at.%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water resource management is an important issue in a region where water resources are far from residential areas. Pipelines can provide a water connection between water resources and residential areas. Control valves are useful in controlling the supply of water based on a time table, faciliting effective manangement of the amount of water supplied. A control valve system with an independent electric energy source (CVS-IEES) can minimize maintenance costs in desert or jungle areas, where maintenance by human efforts may be insufficient. This study suggests that two types of tests, namely, repeatability and flow coefficient tests, can provide the impetus for designing the CVS-IEES. The repeatability test measures the number of repeatable operations of opening and closing an on/off valve. Test result showed that a fluid volume of 15 L at a pressure difference of 5 bar (gage) was feasible for operating a pneumatic on/off valve with a pipe size of 200 mm within 1 s, and the torque must be 7500 N·m. The flow coefficient test result was a function of the valve opening ratio (or aperture rate). The flow coefficient of a control valve with a pipe size of 50 mm was Kv = (2.48 ± 0.20) m3/bar0.5·h at q = 3.94 m3/h. The measurement uncertainty of 0.20 m3/bar0.5·h enables the CVS-IEES designers to estimate the accuracy when controlling the amount of supplied water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evaluation of retinal macular oxygen saturation in healthy controls can aid in understanding the pathological changes seen in similar locations of those with vascular diseases like diabetes. The aim of this study was to determine the test-retest repeatability of localised retinal oximetry measurements in the macula on the Zilia Oximeter within healthy subjects of different races, 18–40 years old. Oxygen saturation was measured between three time points within the same locations of the right eye. Twenty seven subjects were included (aged 26.3 ± 3.6 years). All were confirmed to have healthy retinas and at least 6/9 vision. Oximetry measurements were taken using the Zilia to acquire local oxygen saturation measurements (300 µm diameter) at four points 3.1 degrees from the fovea in the superior/temporal, superior/nasal, inferior/temporal, and inferior/nasal locations. Oximetry measurements were taken twice on the same day 20 minutes apart and then again 1–2 weeks later. Oximetry data was analysed with intraclass correlation between visits. To assess intrasubject repeatability, the Bland-Altman repeatability coefficient and coefficient of variation were calculated. Average Intraclass correlation for the three acquisition times of the right eye was 0.78. The averaged intrasubject repeatability coefficient for the three acquisition times was 8.4. The averaged coefficient of variation was 5.4%. The Zilia oximeter has good macular test-retest repeatability; however, multiple measurements may be needed to ensure accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In response to the problems of slow detection speed, cumbersome operation, and solvent pollution in the detection of petroleum ether extract in tobacco leaves using the current traditional Soxhlet extraction method, low field nuclear magnetic resonance technology was used to detect the petroleum ether extract content in tobacco leaves. The detection parameters such as drying time, sample quality, echo time, and number of repeated scans were optimized to verify the repeatability and accuracy of the method, and the detection results were compared with the traditional Soxhlet extraction method. The results showed that 3. 0 g of tobacco leaf powder passing through a 40 mesh sieve was dried at 80 °C for 4 hours. Under the conditions of echo time of 0. 25 ms and 8 repeated scans, the petroleum ether extract detection results were good. The standard curve R2 reached 0. 999 81, and the relative standard deviation of repeatability was 1. 45% to 2. 99%. The intra day and inter day precision were 2. 61% and 1. 10%, respectively. The correlation coefficient between the detection results of this method and the Soxhlet extraction method reaches 0. 998 55, with an absolute error within 0. 02% ~ 0. 35% and a relative error within 0. 26%~3. 69%. Compared with the traditional Soxhlet extraction method, this method is simple, fast, accurate, and solvent free, making it suitable for the accurate quantification of petroleum ether extracts from large quantities of flue-cered tobacco leaves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The targeted placement of selected carbon nanotubes is associated with low throughput rates. Hence, this paper presents a novel stage design for the fully automatic assembly of carbon nanotube field-effect transistors (CNTFETs) via mechanical dry transfer. It constitutes the core module of an assembly machine for the precise deployment of nanotubes onto a prefabricated wafer. The mechanical dry transfer approach allows high level of carbon nanotube selectivity with the aim of enabling a high-volume fabrication of ultra-clean devices. The previous production rate of such ultra-clean devices is less than one per hour, which offers a high potential for improvement. The stage consists of a parallel kinematic mechanism (PKM) with 3 degrees of freedom ( X 2 Y 2 C 1 ) carrying two additional stacked axes ( Z 1 C 2 ). The PKM is suspended on a vacuum preloaded aerostatic bearing, voice coil motors (VCM) and flexure hinges. Together with a combination of high precision and resolution touch probe measurement systems close to its tool center point (TCP), high accuracy and low settling time can be achieved. Based on realistic manufacturing tolerances, a sensitivity analysis of the mechanism's pseudo rigid body model (PRBM) suggests a theoretical closed-loop error below 0. 15 μ m over the entire XY workspace of 20 mm × 2. 8 mm. Measurements of positioning motions show that the settling time can be decreased by the compensation of friction resistances inside the internal bearings of the VCMs. [Display omitted] • Parallel kinematic micromanipulator with novel axis configuration. • Non-monolithic flexure hinge/voice coil combination. • Sensitivity analysis for the accuracy assessment of the manipulator. • Significant reduction of overshoot and settling time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many animals build structures that are used for shelter, reproduction or to capture prey. The type of material used to build these structures is likely to influence their solidity, thermoregulation capacity and, in some species, may influence the attractiveness of the builders. In the case of animal nests, evidence for preference of nesting material has been documented in several species but, to date, few field experiments have been conducted, and it was seldom investigated whether individuals' attributes affected those preferences. We investigated these preferences in relation to individual attributes on sociable weavers (Philetairus socius) that build communally one of the largest known nest structures, using dry grass. We conducted an experiment where we presented two piles of straws, long and short, to wild individuals. We recorded 900 h of video and used a deep learning method to automatically detect images where birds were present (266 colour‐ringed individuals). Our results showed that males picked more straws than females and showed a preference for longer straws, while no preference was found for females. In addition, older males showed a preference for long straws compared to younger males. Finally, males displayed higher repeatability than females in their preference for longer straws. In conclusion, we show that choice of nesting material is not random, and that preferences are associated with individual attributes. Future studies should assess how building is associated with social status, mating and reproductive success of the individuals building, to investigate which of these factors could have shaped the evolution of these preferences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assessing the agreement between an established and a new measurement system is a practical and important challenge in many application areas. The probability of agreement (PoA) has recently been introduced as a metric to assess such agreement when repeatability, the precision of the measurement system itself, represents the overall measurement system variation. However, it is common in practice for the measurement system to be operated by multiple individuals, and their effects can be an important part of the overall variation. Reproducibility represents the measurement variability attributable to different operators. This article extends the PoA methodology to account for both the repeatability and reproducibility of each measurement system along with the relative bias between them. The developed methodology also allows imbalanced replicate measurements across operators and systems, while the operator effects can either be fixed or random. We use maximum likelihood estimation to estimate the PoA. The proposed approach is illustrated using two case studies. In the first one, we compare the agreement between an old and a new measurement system used for quality inspections in an industrial context. The second case study which is presented in file assesses the agreement between two devices used to measure respiratory rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To achieve high precision and repeatability of prototyped models, work is carried out to improve existing solutions and thus expand the areas of application of 3D printers. Ways to increase the efficiency of 3D printing are being sought. The subject of the work concerns the analysis of dimensional and shape accuracy and repeatability of samples produced by a technology based on layered extrusion of thermoplastic polymers using FFF—fused filament fabrication technology. The key parameter for assessing the quality of parts is the property most expected by 3D printer users regarding the accuracy of dimensions of manufactured prototypes. As part of the research, conclusions were drawn regarding the precision of the samples as original patterns. The dimensional accuracy in the x, y, and z axes of the 3D printer was determined in terms of the design of the 3D printer's actuator system. Three-dimensional maps of deviations of the pattern surface were used in relation to the nominal 3D CAD model to test the accuracy. The analytical results obtained during the research work, together with the graphs of the normal distribution probability function, indicate a high repeatability for each of the axes, and the highest repeatability was for the z-axis. The dimensions in the remaining axes were within the assumed tolerance of 0.1 mm, except for the two extreme dimensions, which were caused by a different method of heat dissipation, proving the influence of the arrangement of samples on the working platform. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Milk quantity and quality traits in cattle are affected by udder health, breed, genetic (such as heritability, repeatability, and heterosis), and environmental factors. The present study was designed to evaluate the effect of udder health, genetic factors and environmental factors on milk performance traits in cattle breeds. The study was conducted on four dairy farms in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. A total of 291 milk samples and 547 records were collected from lactating cattle ranging between parities one to six. For milk performance traits and udder health, each milk sample was analysed for milk composition (fat %, protein %, and lactose %) and SSC (by direct microscopic SCC method). The data were analysed using a generalized linear model of SAS studio for the effect of the SCC, breed, and herd on milk performance while wombat and CFC for the analysis of genetic and non-genetic factors. The results showed that animals with higher SCC have significantly lower (P<0.01) milk fat %. Breed-wise analysis showed significantly higher (P<0.01) protein % in Achai, lactose % in Jersey and its crossbred (Jersey x Achai), and LMY was recorded significantly higher in Friesian and its crossbred Jersey x Friesian (JF). The analysis of the environmental effect on milk composition and LMY showed that animals kept in the different herds have significantly different (P<0.01) milk compositions and LMY. The estimates of additive genetic variance (Va), variance of the permanent environment (Vpe), and estimates of phenotypic variation (Vp) were recorded highest for SCC. The analysis of the effect of genetic factors (i.e. heritability, repeatability, and heterosis) revealed that estimation of heritability was highest (0.59) for age at first calving (AFC) while lowest (0.00) for calving interval (CI), and estimation of repeatability was highest (0.99) for AFC while lowest (0.00) for CI. The results of heterosis analysis showed that crossbred (Achai x Jersey) had positive heterosis for milk composition traits and SCC while negative heterosis for LMY compared to their purebreds. The study concluded that crossbred, better herd management and nutrition, and selection based on genetic factors (such as heritability, repeatability, and heterosis) can bring improvement in milk performance traits and udder health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Performance assessments of quantitative determinations of proton density fat fraction (PDFF) have largely focused on the range between 0 and 50%. We evaluate PDFF in a two-site phantom study across the full 0–100% PDFF range. Materials and methods: We used commercially available 3D chemical-shift-encoded water-fat MRI sequences from three MRI system vendors at 1.5T and 3T and conducted the study across two sites. A spherical phantom housing 18 vials spanning the full 0–100% PDFF range was used. Data at each site were acquired using default parameters to determine same-day and different-day intra-scanner repeatability, and inter-system and inter-site reproducibility, in addition to linear regression between reference and measured PDFF values. Results: Across all systems, results demonstrated strong linearity and minimal bias. For 1.5T systems, a pooled slope of 0.99 with a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 0.981–0.997 and a pooled intercept of 0.61% PDFF with a 95% CI of 0.17–1.04 were obtained. Results for pooled 3T data included a slope of 1.00 (95% CI 0.995–1.005) and an intercept of 0.69% PDFF (95% CI 0.39–0.97). Inter-site and inter-system reproducibility coefficients ranged from 2.9 to 6.2 (in units of PDFF), while intra-scanner same-day and different-day repeatability ranged from 0.6 to 7.8. Discussion: PDFF across the 0–100% range can be reliably estimated using current commercial offerings at 1.5T and 3T. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacteria in natural ecosystems such as soil, dirt, or debris preferentially reside in the biofilm phenotype. When a traumatic injury, such as an open fracture, occurs, these naturally dwelling biofilms and accompanying foreign material can contaminate the injury site. Given their high tolerance of systemic levels of antibiotics that may be administered prophylactically, biofilms may contribute to difficult-to-treat infections. In most animal models, planktonic bacteria are used as initial inocula to cause infection, and this might not accurately mimic clinically relevant contamination and infection scenarios. Further, few approaches and systems utilize the same biofilm and accompanying substrate throughout the experimental continuum. In this study, we designed a unique reactor to grow bacterial biofilms on up to 50 silica beads that modeled environmental wound contaminants. The data obtained indicated that the reactor system repeatably produced mature Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms on the silica beads, with an average of 5.53 and 6.21 log10 colony-forming units per mm2, respectively. The bead substrates are easily manipulable for in vitro or in vivo applications, thus improving translatability. Taken together, the bead biofilm reactor presented herein may be a useful system for repeatably growing established biofilms on silica beads that could be used for susceptibility testing and as initial inocula in future animal models of trauma-related injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To develop an open‐source prototype of myocardial T1 mapping (Open‐MOLLI) to improve accessibility to cardiac T1 mapping and evaluate its repeatability. With Open‐MOLLI, we aim to enable faster implementation and testing of sequence modifications and to facilitate inter‐scanner and cross‐vendor reproducibility studies. Methods: Open‐MOLLI is an inversion‐recovery sequence using a balanced SSFP (bSSFP) readout, with inversion and triggering schemes based on the 5(3)3 MOLLI sequence, developed in Pulseq. Open‐MOLLI and MOLLI sequences were acquired in the ISMRM/NIST phantom and 21 healthy volunteers. In 18 of those subjects, Open‐MOLLI and MOLLI were repeated in the same session (test–retest). Results: Phantom T1 values were comparable between methods, specifically for the vial with reference T1 value most similar to healthy myocardium T1 (T1vial3 = 1027 ms): T1MOLLI = 1011 ± 24 ms versus T1Open‐MOLLI = 1009 ± 20 ms. In vivo T1 estimates were similar between Open‐MOLLI and MOLLI (T1MOLLI = 1004 ± 33 ms vs. T1Open‐MOLLI = 998 ± 52 ms), with a mean difference of −17 ms (p = 0.20), despite noisier Open‐MOLLI weighted images and maps. Repeatability measures were slightly higher for Open‐MOLLI (RCMOLLI = 3.0% vs. RCOpen‐MOLLI = 4.4%). Conclusion: The open‐source sequence Open‐MOLLI can be used for T1 mapping in vivo with similar mean T1 values to the MOLLI method. Open‐MOLLI increases the accessibility to cardiac T1 mapping, providing also a base sequence to which further improvements can easily be added and tested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Three‐dimensional MR fingerprinting (3D‐MRF) techniques have been recently described for simultaneous multiparametric mapping of knee cartilage. However, investigation of repeatability remains limited. Purpose: To assess the intra‐day and inter‐day repeatabilities of knee cartilage T1, T2, and T1ρ maps using a 3D‐MRF sequence for simultaneous measurement. Study Type: Prospective. Subjects: Fourteen healthy subjects (35.4 ± 9.3 years, eight males), scanned on Day 1 and Day 7. Field Strength/Sequence: 3 T/3D‐MRF, T1, T2, and T1ρ maps. Assessment: The acquisition of 3D‐MRF cartilage (simultaneous acquisition of T1, T2, and T1ρ maps) were acquired using a dictionary pattern‐matching approach. Conventional cartilage T1, T2, and T1ρ maps were acquired using variable flip angles and a modified 3D‐Turbo‐Flash sequence with different echo and spin‐lock times, respectively, and were fitted using mono‐exponential models. Each sequence was acquired on Day 1 and Day 7 with two scans on each day. Statistical Tests: The mean and SD for cartilage T1, T2, and T1ρ were calculated in five manually segmented regions of interest (ROIs), including lateral femur, lateral tibia, medial femur, medial tibia, and patella cartilages. Intra‐subject and inter‐subject repeatabilities were assessed using coefficient of variation (CV) and intra‐class correlation coefficient (ICC), respectively, on the same day and among different days. Regression and Bland–Altman analysis were performed to compare maps between the conventional and 3D‐MRF sequences. Results: The CV in all ROIs was lower than 7.4%, 8.4%, and 7.5% and the ICC was higher than 0.56, 0.51, and 0.52 for cartilage T1, T2, and T1ρ, respectively. The MRF results had a good agreement with the conventional methods with a linear regression slope >0.61 and R2 > 0.59. Conclusion: The 3D‐MRF sequence had high intra‐subject and inter‐subject repeatabilities for simultaneously measuring knee cartilage T1, T2, and T1ρ with good agreement with conventional sequences. Evidence Level: 1 Technical Efficacy: Stage 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding of human neck stiffness and range of motion (ROM) with minimal neck muscle activation ("passive") is important for clinical and bioengineering applications. The aim of this study was to develop, implement, and evaluate the reliability of methods for assessing passive-lying stiffness and ROM, in six head-neck rotation directions. Six participants completed two assessment sessions. To perform passive-lying tests, the participant's head and torso were strapped to a bending (flexion, extension, lateral bending) or a rotation (axial rotation) apparatus, and clinical bed, respectively. The head and neck were manually rotated by the researcher to the participant's maximum ROM, to assess passive-lying stiffness. Participant-initiated ("active") head ROM was also assessed in the apparatus, and seated. Various measures of apparatus functionality were assessed. ROM was similar for all assessment configurations in each motion direction except flexion. In each direction, passive stiffness generally increased throughout neck rotation. Within-session reliability for stiffness (ICC > 0.656) and ROM (ICC > 0.872) was acceptable, but between-session reliability was low for some motion directions, probably due to intrinsic participant factors, participant-apparatus interaction, and the relatively low participant number. Moment-angle corridors from both assessment sessions were similar, suggesting that with greater sample size, these methods may be suitable for estimating population-level corridors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Assessing refractive errors under cycloplegia is recommended for paediatric patients; however, this may not always be feasible. In these situations, refraction has to rely on measurements made under active accommodation which may increase measurements variability and error. Therefore, evaluating the accuracy and precision of non-cycloplegic refraction and biometric measurements is clinically relevant. The Myopia Master, a novel instrument combining autorefraction and biometry, is designed for monitoring refractive error and ocular biometry in myopia management. This study assessed its repeatability and agreement for autorefraction and biometric measurements pre- and post-cycloplegia. Methods: A prospective cross-sectional study evaluated a cohort of 96 paediatric patients that underwent ophthalmologic examination. An optometrist performed two repeated measurements of autorefraction and biometry pre- and post-cycloplegia. Test-retest repeatability (TRT) was assessed as differences between consecutive measurements and agreement as differences between post- and pre-cycloplegia measurements, for spherical equivalent (SE), refractive and keratometric J0/J45 astigmatic components, mean keratometry (Km) and axial length (AL). Results: Cycloplegia significantly improved the SE repeatability (TRT, pre-cyclo: 0.65 D, post-cyclo: 0.31 D). SE measurements were more repeatable in myopes and emmetropes compared to hyperopes. Keratometry (Km) repeatability did not change with cycloplegia (TRT, pre-cyclo: 0.25 D, post-cyclo:0.27 D) and AL repeatability improved marginally (TRT, pre-cyclo: 0.14 mm, post-cyclo: 0.09 mm). Regarding pre- and post-cycloplegia agreement, SE became more positive by + 0.79 D, varying with refractive error. Myopic eyes showed a mean difference of + 0.31 D, while hyperopes differed by + 1.57 D. Mean keratometry, refractive and keratometric J0/J45 and AL showed no clinically significant differences. Conclusions: Refractive error measurements, using the Myopia Master were 2.5x less precise pre-cycloplegia than post-cycloplegia. Accuracy of pre-cycloplegic refractive error measurements was often larger than the clinically significant threshold (0.25 D) and was refractive error dependent. The higher precision compared to autorefraction measurements, pre- and post-cycloplegia agreement and refractive error independence of AL measurements emphasize the superiority of AL in refractive error monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT The objective of this research was to identify the most effective method to estimate the repeatability coefficients in species of eucalyptus and to predict the minimum number of measurements necessary for growth traits. The experimental design was randomized blocks, with five species, with four repetitions. Data were collected from five measurements during the period from 2014 to 2016, evaluated according to the diameter, chest height and total height. The repeatability coefficient (r) was estimated using different strategies: analysis of variance (ANOVA), principal component analysis based on the correlation matrix (PCCOR), principal components based on the phenotypic variance and covariance matrix (PCCOV), and structural analysis based on the correlation matrix (SACOR). The PCCOR and PCCOV provide accurate estimates of the repeatability coefficient and the number of measurements required. At least five measurements are necessary to predict the real value, with a minimum accuracy of 80%.

Introduction: This study aimed to evaluate the repeatability and agreement of Anterion with Pentacam HR and Orbscan II in corneal parameters after photorefractive keratectomy (PRK). Methods: This prospective study involved 42 patients (42 eyes) aged between 20 and 40 years undergoing PRK surgery. Corneal measurements were measured two times using Anterion in order to assess the repeatability of this device. Then, the same parameters were measured using Pentacam and Orbscan in order to determine the agreement of Anterion and the other two devices in measuring corneal parameters after PRK. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) checked Anterion’s repeatability. Also, ICC and means of the 95% limits of agreement (LoA) were used to assess the agreement of Anterion results with those of the two other devices. Results: Anterion demonstrated high to moderate repeatability in corneal parameters post-PRK, except for anterior flat keratometry (ICC = 0.73), 4th order root mean square (RMS), and horizontal trefoil (ICC < 0.75). While Anterion and Pentacam showed good agreement in corneal topography and tomography (ICC > 0.90, P < 0.05), they were only interchangeable in keratometric parameters. Additionally, no agreement was observed between Anterion and Pentacam in aberration parameters after PRK. Although Anterion and Orbscan exhibited agreement in anterior average keratometry and central corneal thickness (CCT) (ICC > 0.90, P < 0.05), it was not clinically interchangeable. Conclusion: Anterion demonstrated notable repeatability in most corneal parameters after PRK. Although there was good agreement between Anterion and Pentacam HR in measuring corneal topography and tomography, their interchangeability was limited to other values. Furthermore, Anterion and Orbscan II were not clinically interchangeable.

Female football is growing exponentially. Assessing changes in neuromuscular function enables injury risk profiling using single and multiple countermovement jumps (CMJ) in female footballers who are at greater injury risk. Single leg CMJ (SLCMJ) is sensitive to detect such changes, but test-retest reliability is unknown. The aim of this study was to examine test-retest reliability of phase-specific metrics during CMJ, SLCMJ and countermovement rebound (CMJ-R) in female youth footballers. Twenty-six elite female footballers (15.4±1.6 years, 59.2±2.4 kg, 165.8±4.8 cm) performed three, arms akimbo, CMJ, SLCMJ and CMJ-R trials on two sessions seven days apart, using force plates and associated software. System weight, jump momentum and average braking force had good-excellent reliability. CMJ demonstrated greater reliability followed by CMJ-R, dominant limb (DL: preferred kicking limb) SLCMJ and non-dominant limb (NDL) SLCMJ. Jump height had good-excellent reliability for CMJ and CMJ-R. SLCMJ absolute reliability (upper 95 confidence interval [CI] coefficient of variation) was moderate for both limbs. Relative reliability (lower 95 CI interclass correlation coefficient) was good for DL, but poor for NDL. Considering increased injury risk in female athletes, selecting reliable metrics facilitate accurate neuromuscular function assessment for injury risk profiling. This study describes phase-specific test-retest reliability in female youth footballers.

Abstract Dynamic assessment of myocardial blood flow (MBF) and myocardial flow reserve (MFR) provides additional information that can improve diagnostic accuracy of radionuclide myocardial perfusion imaging in some clinical situations. This study assessed processing repeatability of these parameters calculated using two models—net retention (RET) and one compartment (1CM) in dynamic SPECT studies, using the latest version of Corridor 4DM software (v2024). Data of 107 patients were analyzed retrospectively (57 of whom were assessed in our previous study using 4DM v2015). Dynamic SPECT studies were carried out using a routine two-day rest-dipyridamole protocol. Data was processed in 4DM v2024 twice by one operator and once by another operator. Automatic heart image positioning during post-processing in 4DM v2024 was significantly improved compared to v2015, reducing the number of studies requiring extensive manual corrections from 41 to 12%. This significantly improved interobserver processing repeatability of MFR values in RCA territory compared to our previous study using v2015—from r = 0.67 to 0.85 (p = 0.0034). Interobserver processing repeatability of MBF and MFR in all 107 patients was significantly better in RET model compared to 1CM model. In conclusion, RET model is more reliable for calculating MBF and MFR values based on dynamic SPECT studies.