Criterion-Related Validity of the 20-M Shuttle Run Test for Estimating Cardiorespiratory Fitness: A Meta-Analysis

The main purpose of the present meta-analysis was to examine the criterion-related validity of the 20-m shuttle run test for estimating cardiorespiratory fitness. Relevant studies were searched from twelve electronic databases up to December 2014, as well as from several alternative modes of searching. The Hunter-Schmidt’s psychometric meta-analysis approach was conducted to estimate the population criterion-related validity of the 20-m shuttle run test. From 57 studies that were included in the present meta-analysis, a total of 78 correlation values were analyzed. The overall results showed that the performance score of the 20-m shuttle run test had a moderate-to-high criterion-related validity for estimating maximum oxygen uptake (r_p = 0.66-0.84), being higher when other variables (e.g. sex, age or body mass) were used (r_p = 0.78-0.95). The present meta-analysis also showed that the criterion-related validity of Léger’s protocol was statistically higher for adults (r_p = 0.94, 0.87-1.00) than for children (r_p = 0.78, 0.72-0.85). However, sex and maximum oxygen uptake level do not seem to affect the criterion-related validity values. When an individual’s maximum oxygen uptake attained during a laboratory-based test is not feasible, the 20-m shuttle run test seems to be a useful alternative for estimating cardiorespiratory fitness. In adults the performance score only seems to be a strong estimator of cardiorespiratory fitness, in contrast among children the performance score should be combined with other variables. Nevertheless, as in the application of any physical fitness field test, evaluators must be aware that the performance score of the 20-m shuttle run test is simply an estimation and not a direct measure of cardiorespiratory fitness.

Key points

• Overall the 20-m shuttle run test has a moderate-to-high mean criterion-related validity for estimating cardiorespiratory fitness.
• The criterion-related validity of the 20-m shuttle run test is significantly higher for adults than for children. However, when the performance score is combined with other variables, the criterion-related validity value increases considerably among children.
• Sex and maximum oxygen uptake level of individuals seem not to affect the criterion-related validity of the 20-m shuttle run test.
• When individuals’ maximum oxygen uptake attained during a laboratory-based test is not feasible, the 20-m shuttle run test seems to be a useful alternative for estimating cardiorespiratory fitness.

Key words: Maximum oxygen uptake, peak oxygen uptake, PACER, Multistage fitness test, Léger test     

Validity and Reproducibility of an Incremental Sit-To-Stand Exercise Test for Evaluating Anaerobic Threshold in Young,Healthy Individuals

Sit-to-stand exercise (STS) is a common activity of daily living. The objectives of the present study were: 1) to assess the validity of aerobic fitness measurements based on anaerobic thresholds (ATs), during incremental sit-to-stand exercise (ISTS) with and without arm support compared with an incremental cycle-ergometer (CE) test; and 2) to examine the reproducibility of the AT measured during the ISTSs. Twenty-six healthy individuals randomly performed the ISTS and CE test. Oxygen uptakes at the AT (AT-VO₂) and heart rate at the AT (AT-HR) were determined during the ISTSs and CE test, and repeated-measures analyses of variance and Tukey’s post-hoc test were used to evaluate the differences between these variables. Pearson correlation coefficients were used to assess the strength of the relationship between AT-VO₂ and AT-HR during the ISTSs and CE test. Data analysis yielded the following correlations: AT-VO₂ during the ISTS with arm support and the CE test, r = 0.77 (p < 0.05); AT-VO₂ during the ISTS without arm support and the CE test, r = 0.70 (p < 0.05); AT-HR during the ISTS with arm support and the CE test, r = 0.80 (p < 0.05); and AT-HR during the ISTS without arm support and the CE test, r = 0.66 (p < 0.05). The AT-VO₂ values during the ISTS with arm support (18.5 ± 1.9 mL·min^-1·kg^-1) and the CE test (18.4 ± 1.8 mL·min^-1·kg^-1) were significantly higher than those during the ISTS without arm support (16.6 ± 1.8 mL·min^-1·kg^-1; p < 0.05). The AT-HR values during the ISTS with arm support (126 ± 10 bpm) and the CE test (126 ± 13 bpm) were significantly higher than those during the ISTS without arm support (119 ± 9 bpm; p < 0.05). The ISTS with arm support may provide a cardiopulmonary function load equivalent to the CE test; therefore, it is a potentially valid test for evaluating AT-VO2 and AT-HR in healthy, young adults.

Key points

• The ISTS is a simple test that varies only according to the frequency of standing up, and requires only a small space and a chair.
• The ISTS with arm support is valid and reproducible, and is a safe test for evaluating AT in healthy young adults.
• For evaluating the AT, the ISTS may serve as a valid alternative to conventional CPX, using either a cycle ergometer or treadmill, in cases where the latter methods are difficult to implement.

Key words: Sit-to-stand, cycle ergometer, anaerobic threshold, correlations, reproducibility, validity     

Validity and Responsiveness of the Two-Minute Walk Test for Measuring Functional Recovery After Total Knee Arthroplasty

Background

The 2-minute walk test (2mwt) is a performance-based test that evaluates functional recovery after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). This study evaluated its validity compared with the modified Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), Oxford Knee Score (OKS), modified Knee Score, Numerical Pain Rating Scale, and Timed Up and Go test, and its responsiveness in assessing functional recovery in TKA patients.

Untoward Effects of Ketamine Combined with Diazepam for Supplementing Conduction Anaesthesia in Young and Middle-Aged Adults

Fifty-six young and 29 middle-aged adults who were scheduled for lower abdominal, anorectal or extremity surgery under epidural, sacral or brachial plexus blockades received intravenous analgesic or anaesthetic doses of ketamine, combined with diazepam, immediately before the start of the operation. Forty-one patients received no supplementary drugs for the conduction anaesthesia and were divided into two groups of controls. On the day following the operation, all the patients were asked about their postanaesthetic reactions and their acceptance of the anaesthetic technique, and the nursing staff expressed their opinion on the amount of work and supervision needed during the post-operative care of the patients. Administration of ketamine 0.5 mg/kg with diazepam 0.15 mg/kg to young or middle-aged patients was not associated with more side-effects or a greater need for post-operative care and supervision than in the control groups. Administration of anaesthetic doses of ketamine 1.5 mg/kg and 3.0 mg/kg with 0.15 mg/kg and 0.3 mg/kg of diazepam, respectively, caused significantly ( P <0.05) more post-operative anxiety and confusion, as well as a significantly greater need for post-operative care and supervision than in the control patients. It is concluded that, in young or middle-aged patients, supplementing conduction anaesthesia with ketamine 0.5 mg/kg plus diazepam 0.15 mg/kg is not associated with the untoward effects which can be expected after anaesthetic doses of 1.5 mg/kg (or more) of ketamine.     

椎体成形术后病人再骨折预防行为量表的编制及信效度检验

目的 编制椎体成形术后病人再骨折预防行为量表,并进行信效度检验。方法 2021年8月至2022年3月,以知信行理论框架,通过文献回顾、德尔菲专家咨询和预调查编制量表临床施测版。2022年4月至6月,采用便利抽样法选取合肥市第一人民医院椎体成形术后病人211例进行一对一的面对面正式调查,进行项目分析、效度检验和信度检验;7月至9月选取椎体成形术后病人220例进行验证性因子分析,以中文版《健康促进生活方式量表》（HPLP-ⅡC）作为效标量表,分析量表的效标关联效度。结果 经过信效度检验,最终获得包含预防知识、预防态度和预防行为3个维度,28个条目的椎体成形术后病人再骨折预防行为量表。条目、量表水平内容效度、校标关联效度指数分别为0.857~1.000、0.931和0.823。量表总体的Cronbach''s α系数、折半信度和重测信度分别为0.943、0.727和0.809。验证性因子分析显示,χ²/df=1.476,RMSEA=0.047,RMR=0.041,CFI=0.967,IFI=0.967,NFI=0.905。各拟合指数达到适配要求。结论 椎体成形术后病人再骨折预防行为量表具有良好的测量学属性,可以作为评价椎体成形术后病人再骨折预防行为的可靠工具。     

Reliability and Validity of a New Test of Change-of-Direction Speed for Field-Based Sports: the Change-of-Direction and Acceleration Test (CODAT)

Field sport coaches must use reliable and valid tests to assess change-of-direction speed in their athletes. Few tests feature linear sprinting with acute change- of-direction maneuvers. The Change-of-Direction and Acceleration Test (CODAT) was designed to assess field sport change-of-direction speed, and includes a linear 5-meter (m) sprint, 45° and 90° cuts, 3- m sprints to the left and right, and a linear 10-m sprint. This study analyzed the reliability and validity of this test, through comparisons to 20-m sprint (0-5, 0-10, 0-20 m intervals) and Illinois agility run (IAR) performance. Eighteen Australian footballers (age = 23.83 ± 7.04 yrs; height = 1.79 ± 0.06 m; mass = 85.36 ± 13.21 kg) were recruited. Following familiarization, subjects completed the 20-m sprint, CODAT, and IAR in 2 sessions, 48 hours apart. Intra-class correlation coefficients (ICC) assessed relative reliability. Absolute reliability was analyzed through paired samples t-tests (p ≤ 0.05) determining between-session differences. Typical error (TE), coefficient of variation (CV), and differences between the TE and smallest worthwhile change (SWC), also assessed absolute reliability and test usefulness. For the validity analysis, Pearson’s correlations (p ≤ 0.05) analyzed between-test relationships. Results showed no between-session differences for any test (p = 0.19-0.86). CODAT time averaged ~6 s, and the ICC and CV equaled 0.84 and 3.0%, respectively. The homogeneous sample of Australian footballers meant that the CODAT’s TE (0.19 s) exceeded the usual 0.2 x standard deviation (SD) SWC (0.10 s). However, the CODAT is capable of detecting moderate performance changes (SWC calculated as 0.5 x SD = 0.25 s). There was a near perfect correlation between the CODAT and IAR (r = 0.92), and very large correlations with the 20-m sprint (r = 0.75-0.76), suggesting that the CODAT was a valid change-of-direction speed test. Due to movement specificity, the CODAT has value for field sport assessment.

Key points

• The change-of-direction and acceleration test (CODAT) was designed specifically for field sport athletes from specific speed research, and data derived from time-motion analyses of sports such as rugby union, soccer, and Australian football. The CODAT features a linear 5-meter (m) sprint, 45° and 90° cuts and 3-m sprints to the left and right, and a linear 10-m sprint.
• The CODAT was found to be a reliable change-of-direction speed assessment when considering intra-class correlations between two testing sessions, and the coefficient of variation between trials. A homogeneous sample of Australian footballers resulted in absolute reliability limitations when considering differences between the typical error and smallest worthwhile change. However, the CODAT will detect moderate (0.5 times the test’s standard deviation) changes in performance.
• The CODAT correlated with the Illinois agility run, highlighting that it does assess change-of-direction speed. There were also significant relationships with short sprint performance (i.e. 0-5 m and 0-10 m), demonstrating that linear acceleration is assessed within the CODAT, without the extended duration and therefore metabolic limitations of the IAR. Indeed, the average duration of the test (~6 seconds) is field sport-specific. Therefore, the CODAT could be used as an assessment of change-of-direction speed in field sport athletes.

Key words: Lateral cutting, field testing, Illinois agility run, linear speed, team sports     

Disease Control in Wildlife: Evaluating a Test and Cull Programme for Bovine Tuberculosis in African Buffalo

Providing an evidence base for wildlife population management is difficult, due to limited opportunities for experimentation and study replication at the population level. We utilized an opportunity to assess the outcome of a test and cull programme aimed at limiting the spread of Mycobacterium bovis in African buffalo. Buffalo act as reservoirs of M. bovis, the causative agent of bovine tuberculosis (BTB), which can have major economic, ecological and public health impacts through the risk of infection to other wildlife species, livestock and surrounding communities. BTB prevalence data were collected in conjunction with disease control operations in Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park, South Africa, from 1999 to 2006. A total of 4733 buffalo (250–950 per year) were tested for BTB using the single comparative intradermal tuberculin (SCIT) test, with BTB‐positive animals culled, and negative animals released. BTB prevalence was spatially and temporally variable, ranging from 2.3% to 54.7%. Geographic area was a strong predictor of BTB transmission in HiP, owing to relatively stable herds and home ranges. Herds experiencing more intensive and frequent captures showed reduced per capita disease transmission risk and less increase in herd prevalence over time. Disease hot spots did not expand spatially over time, and BTB prevalence in all but the hot spot areas was maintained between 10% and 15% throughout the study period. Our data suggest that HiP's test and cull programme was effective at reducing BTB transmission in buffalo, with capture effort and interval found to be the crucial components of the programme. The programme was thus successful with respect to the original goals; however, there are additional factors that should be considered in future cost/benefit analyses and decision‐making. These findings may be utilized and expanded in future collaborative work between wildlife managers, veterinarians and scientists, to optimize wildlife disease control programmes and mitigate conflict at the interface of conservation, agricultural and urban areas.     

Sexual Function,Satisfaction, and Use of Aids for Sexual Activity in Middle-Aged Adults with Long-Term Physical Disability

Background:

Sexuality is an important aspect of quality of life in individuals with disabilities, yet little is known about what factors contribute to sexual satisfaction as these individuals age.

Method:

Middle-aged adults with physical disabilities completed a cross-sectional survey that included measures of sexual activity, function, and satisfaction.

Results:

Consistent with studies of able-bodied adults, sexual function was the strongest predictor of satisfaction. However, depression also predicted sexual satisfaction for women. Use of aids for sexual activity varied by disability type and was generally associated with better function. Lowest levels of sexual satisfaction were reported by men with SCI.

Conclusion:

Depression may negatively impact sexual satisfaction in women, beyond contributions of sexual dysfunction, and effective use of sexual aids may improve function in this population.Key words: muscular dystrophy, post-polio syndrome, sexual dysfunction, spinal cord injuryFor men and women in the general population, the prevalence of sexual dysfunction increases with age and has been shown to detract from quality of life.^1–6 Although sexuality is an important aspect of quality of life regardless of physical disability, only a handful of studies have described sexuality in persons with long-term physical disabilities (LTPD),^7,8 and virtually none have examined the intersection of disability, age, and gender in reporting of sexual outcomes.^3,4,9This study sought to (a) examine the prevalence of reported sexual dysfunction and rates of sexual aid use among individuals with LTPD; (b) examine the associations between sexual satisfaction, dysfunction, and the use of aids; and (c) evaluate physical and psychological predictors of sexual satisfaction separately for men and women living with LTPD. Based on literature from able-bodied samples, we hypothesized that sexual functioning would be the strongest predictor of sexual satisfaction. However, we made no a priori hypotheses regarding other predictors of satisfaction or the relationship of satisfaction to use of sexual aids.     

The 6-Minute Walk Test as a Tool for Determining Exercise Capacity and Prognosis in Patients With Silicosis

Objective

To evaluate exercise capacity using the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) in patients with complicated silicosis, and to determine how results shape the prognostic value of 6MWT for hospitalization and mortality.

The Effect of Body Build and BMI on Aerobic Test Performance in School Children (10-15 Years)

Body Mass Index (BMI) has often questionably been used to define body build. In the present study body build was defined more specifically using fat free mass index (FFMI = fat free mass normalised to the stature) and fat mass index (FMI = fat mass normalised to stature). The body build of an individual is ‘solid’ in individuals with a high FFMI for their FMI and is ‘slender’ in individuals with a low FFMI relative to their FMI. The aim of the present study was to investigate the association between aerobic test performance and body build defined as solid, average or slender in 10 to 15 year old children. Five-hundred-and-two children (53% boys) aged 10 to 15 years of age were included in the study. Aerobic test performance was estimated with an incremental cycle ergometer protocol and a shuttle run test. BMI and percentage fat (by skin folds) were determined to calculate FMI and FFMI. After adjustment for differences in age, gender and body mass the solid group achieved a significantly higher maximal power output (W) and power output relative to body mass (W/kg) during the cycle test (p < 0.05) and a higher shuttle-run score (p < 0.05) compared to the slender group. The power output relative to FFM (W/kg FFM) was comparable (p > 0.05) between different body build groups. This study showed that body build is an important determinant of the aerobic test performance. In contrast, there were no differences in aerobic test performance per kilogramme FFM over the body build groups. This suggests that the body build may be determined by genetic predisposition.

Key Points

• Children with a solid body build perform better in aerobic exercise tests than slender children.
• The power output relative to fat free mass was comparable in the solid, slender and average group.
• Besides body composition, body build should be considered related to other performance measurements.

Key words: Shuttle run test, cycle test, BMI, percentage fat, solid body build, slender body build     

Abdominal Wound Dehiscence in Adults: Development and Validation of a Risk Model

Background  

Several studies have been performed to identify risk factors for abdominal wound dehiscence. No risk model had yet been developed for the general surgical population. The objective of the present study was to identify independent risk factors for abdominal wound dehiscence and to develop a risk model to recognize high-risk patients. Identification of high-risk patients offers opportunities for intervention strategies.     

Reliability and Validity of Physiological Data Obtained Within a Cycle-Run Transition Test in Age-Group Triathletes

This study examined the validity and reliability of a sequential “Run-Bike-Run” test (RBR) in age-group triathletes. Eight Olympic distance (OD) specialists (age 30.0 ± 2.0 years, mass 75.6 ± 1.6 kg, run VO_2max 63.8 ± 1.9 ml· kg^-1· min^-1, cycle VO_2peak 56.7 ± 5.1 ml· kg^-1· min^-1) performed four trials over 10 days. Trial 1 (TRVO_2max) was an incremental treadmill running test. Trials 2 and 3 (RBR₁ and RBR₂) involved: 1) a 7-min run at 15 km· h^-1 (R₁) plus a 1-min transition to 2) cycling to fatigue (2 W· kg^-1 body mass then 30 W each 3 min); 3) 10-min cycling at 3 W· kg^-1 (B_submax); another 1-min transition and 4) a second 7-min run at 15 km· h^-1 (R₂). Trial 4 (TT) was a 30-min cycle - 20-min run time trial. No significant differences in absolute oxygen uptake (VO₂), heart rate (HR), or blood lactate concentration ([BLA]) were evidenced between RBR₁ and RBR₂. For all measured physiological variables, the limits of agreement were similar, and the mean differences were physiologically unimportant, between trials. Low levels of test-retest error (i.e. ICC <0.8, CV<10%) were observed for most (logged) measurements. However [BLA] post R₁ (ICC 0.87, CV 25.1%), [BLA] post B_submax (ICC 0.99, CV 16.31) and [BLA] post R₂ (ICC 0.51, CV 22.9%) were least reliable. These error ranges may help coaches detect real changes in training status over time. Moreover, RBR test variables can be used to predict discipline specific and overall TT performance. Cycle VO_2peak, cycle peak power output, and the change between R₁ and R₂ (deltaR₁R₂) in [BLA] were most highly related to overall TT distance (r = 0.89, p < 0. 01; r = 0.94, p < 0.02; r = 0.86, p < 0.05, respectively). The percentage of TR VO_2max at 15 km· h^-1, and deltaR₁R₂ HR, were also related to run TT distance (r = -0.83 and 0.86, both p < 0.05).

Key points

• It is extremely important to ensure that the measurements made as part of research or athlete support work are adequately reliable and valid.
• The modified Millet triathlete “Run-Bike-Run” (RBR) test allows both for important physiological variables that are normally obtained from isolated tests (such as cycle VO_2peak and peak power output) to be determined, and for measurement of the extent to which an athlete adapts to a cycle-run transition (T2).
• The data reported in this paper regarding the test-retest reliability of the modified RBR, and its validity relative to cycle-run time-trial performance in male age-group triathletes, may help coaches determine the extent to which changes on test measures are likely due to training adaptation rather than to measurement error.

Key words: Multi-discipline, reproducibility, time-trial, test, adaptation     

Perineal Pad Test in Evaluating Outcome of Treatments for Female Incontinence: A Systematic Review

Our objective was to systematically review clinical studies of incontinence treatments for women that used pad tests to assess outcome, to determine how closely the ICS guidelines had been followed. Our review (Medline 1988–2000, plus referenced studies) identified 75 relevant papers, carrying out pad tests in clinics (n= 53) or patients’ homes (n= 28). Clinic pad tests lasted between 60 seconds and 2 hours, with inconsistent starting bladder volumes, activities carried out, other test details and presentation of results. Home pad tests lasted between 1.5 and 48 hours: the conduct and reporting of these tests were also variable. Only 25 studies used pad tests that were apparently consistent with ICS guidelines. Pad tests are important in identifying urine loss in clinical evaluations; however, we found wide variations in their conduct and reporting. We recommend that the ICS should review the guidelines, and that further research should develop clinically valid pad tests. Authors and journal editors should ensure that pad test details are fully reported.     

Development and Validity of a Scale of Perception of Velocity in Resistance Exercise

This aims of this study were twofold; 1) to development a new scale of perceived velocity in the bench press exercise and 2) to examine the scales concurrent validity. Twenty one physically active males with mean ±SD age, height and weights of: 27.5 ± 4.7 years, 1.77 ± 0.07 m, and 79.8 ± 10.3 kg respectively, took part in the study. The criterion variable used to test the validity of the new scale was the mean execution velocity (Vel_real) of the bench press exercise. Three intensities (light loads [< 40% 1RM], medium loads [40% -70% 1RM] and heavy loads [> 70% 1RM]) were measured randomly during 5 days of testing. Perceived velocity (Vel_scale) was measured immediately after each exercise set using the new scale. A positive linear correlation (r range = 0.69 to 0.81) was found in all three intensities, analyzed individually, between the Vel_real and Vel_scale. Pearson correlations showed a greater frequency of scale use resulted higher correlation values (range r = 0.88 to 0.96). This study provides evidence of the concurrent validity of a new scale of perceived velocity in the bench press exercise in trained adult males. These results suggest the exercise intensity of the bench press can be quantified quickly and effective using this new scale of perceived velocity, particularly when training for maximum power.

Key Points

• Measurement of perception of velocity can complement other scales of perception such as the 15 category Borg scale or the OMNI-RES.
• The results obtained in this study show that there was a positive correlation between the perceived velocity measured by the scale and actual velocity
• Regular use of the new scale of perceived velocity in external resistance training provides athletes with continuous feedback of execution velocity in each repetition and set, especially with high power loads

Key words: RPE, rating perceived velocity, strength training, weight lifting     

Ventilation Behavior in Trained and Untrained Men During Incremental Test: Evidence of one Metabolic Transition Point

This study aimed to describe and compare the ventilation behavior during an incremental test utilizing three mathematical models and to compare the feature of ventilation curve fitted by the best mathematical model between aerobically trained (TR) and untrained (UT) men. Thirty five subjects underwent a treadmill test with 1 km·h^-1 increases every minute until exhaustion. Ventilation averages of 20 seconds were plotted against time and fitted by: bi-segmental regression model (_2SRM); three-segmental regression model (3SRM); and growth exponential model (GEM). Residual sum of squares (RSS) and mean square error (MSE) were calculated for each model. The correlations between peak VO₂ (VO_2PEAK), peak speed (Speed_PEAK), ventilatory threshold identified by the best model (VT_2SRM) and the first derivative calculated for workloads below (moderate intensity) and above (heavy intensity) VT_2SRM were calculated. The RSS and MSE for GEM were significantly higher (p < 0.01) than for _2SRM and 3SRM in pooled data and in UT, but no significant difference was observed among the mathematical models in TR. In the pooled data, the first derivative of moderate intensities showed significant negative correlations with VT_2SRM (r = -0.58; p < 0.01) and Speed_PEAK (r = -0.46; p < 0.05) while the first derivative of heavy intensities showed significant negative correlation with VT_2SRM (r = -0. 43; p < 0.05). In UT group the first derivative of moderate intensities showed significant negative correlations with VT_2SRM (r = -0.65; p < 0.05) and Speed_PEAK (r = -0.61; p < 0.05), while the first derivative of heavy intensities showed significant negative correlation with VT_2SRM (r= -0.73; p< 0.01), Speed_PEAK (r = -0.73; p < 0.01) and VO_2PEAK (r = -0.61; p < 0.05) in TR group. The ventilation behavior during incremental treadmill test tends to show only one threshold. UT subjects showed a slower ventilation increase during moderate intensities while TR subjects showed a slower ventilation increase during heavy intensities.

Key points

• The increase of ventilation during incremental exercise tends to show only one metabolic transition point.
• The presence of a threshold process or a continuous process in ventilation during incremental exercise seems to be only a methodological matter.
• The ventilatory efficiency can be employed to distinguish trained than untrained subjects once this index is associated with aerobic parameters. When analyzed the whole curve, trained subjects show a better ventilatory efficiency at heavy intensities and untrained subjects show a better ventilatory efficiency at moderate intensities.

Key words: Ventilatory threshold, mathematical modeling, ventilatory responses, aerobic training status     

Effects of a Short-Term Plyometric and Resistance Training Program on Fitness Performance in Boys Age 12 to 15 Years

The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of a six week training period of combined plyometric and resistance training (PRT, n = 13) or resistance training alone (RT, n = 14) on fitness performance in boys (12-15 yr). The RT group performed static stretching exercises followed by resistance training whereas the PRT group performed plyometric exercises followed by the same resistance training program. The training duration per session for both groups was 90 min. At baseline and after training all participants were tested on the vertical jump, long jump, medicine ball toss, 9.1 m sprint, pro agility shuttle run and flexibility. The PRT group made significantly (p < 0.05) greater improvements than RT in long jump (10.8 cm vs. 2.2 cm), medicine ball toss (39.1 cm vs. 17.7 cm) and pro agility shuttle run time (-0.23 sec vs. -0.02 sec) following training. These findings suggest that the addition of plyometric training to a resistance training program may be more beneficial than resistance training and static stretching for enhancing selected measures of upper and lower body power in boys.

Key points

• Youth conditioning programs which include different types of training and different loading schemes (e.g., high velocity plyometrics and resistance training) may be most effective for enhancing power performance.
• The effects of resistance training and plyometric training may be synergistic in children, with their combined effects being greater that each program performed alone.

Key words: Adolescent, strength training, power, stretch-shortening cycle     

Evaluation of malingering cut-off scores for the Rey 15-Item Test: a brain injury case study series

Primary objective : To evaluate the utility of prescribed malingering cut-off scores by examining the Rey Fifteen-Item Test (FIT) responses of persons with severe brain injury.

Research design : Series of five case studies.

Methods and procedures : The FIT was administered along with standardized neuropsychological and neurobehavioural meausres.

Main outcomes and results : Using the standardized scoring protocol, all five patients obtained perfect (15/15 correct) scores on the FIT. All patients exhibited significant impairment on other neuropsychological indices, included measures of memory and attention.

Conclusions : Results lend support to the use of higher cut-off scores to identify malingering. Further large-scale research is recommended to ascertain the reliability of FIT scoring procedures, determine cut-off scores for various diagnostic groups and develope age and education adjustments. Implications for use of the FIT in clinical and forensic settings are also discussed.     

社区老年人跌倒风险感知量表的编制及信效度检验

目的 编制社区老年人跌倒风险感知量表并检验信效度,为跌倒自我防范提供评估工具。方法 通过文献分析、专家函询、预调查、小组讨论等方式构建量表,选取浙江省某社区卫生服务中心259名老年人进行调查,检验量表信效度。结果 社区老年人跌倒风险感知量表包括跌倒生物行为易感性感知（8个条目）、跌倒社会环境易感性感知（4个条目）、跌倒严重性感知（5个条目）3个维度,共17个条目。探索性因子分析3个公因子累计方差贡献率为60.266%。量表内容效度指数为0.940,条目内容效度指数为0.800~1.000。量表的Cronbach′s α系数为0.913,各维度Cronbach′s α系数为0.814~0.858,重测信度为0.907。结论 社区老年人跌倒风险感知量表信效度良好,可用于老年人跌倒风险感知的评估。     

高护生职业生涯规划问卷的研制与信效度检测

目的 编制适合测量高护生职业生涯规划现状的调查问卷,为了解高护生的职业生涯规划水平提供测量工具.方法 采用文献研究法、专家咨询法和访谈法收集有关高护生职业生涯规划的问题.将问题进行规范化叙述,按一定结构编制成问卷.采用方便整群抽样,先后抽取高护生168人和178人进行调查.采用项目分析、信度测量和因子分析等方法对问卷进行检测,根据结果进行修改,编制成高护生职业生涯规划问卷.结果 问卷包括自我认识(6个条目)、专业环境评估(7个条目)、职业目标(3个条目)、行动计划(7个条目)、人际关系(5个条目)、反馈修正(5个条目)6个维度.共33个条目.问卷Cronbach'S α系数为0.913,6个维度分别为0.713、0.841、0.680、0.816、0.829、0.717;问卷总内容效度为0.972,6个维度分别为1.000、1.000、1.000、0.960、0.840、1.000;6个因子解释的总变异量为54.71%,各条目的 因子载荷为0.393～0.802.结论 高护生职业生涯问卷具有较好的信度和结构效度,可以用于测量高护生的职业生涯规划水平.