Journal of clinical epidemiology
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Triage systems, developed by consensus of experts and based on decision rules, are typically not validated. The objective is to discuss the challenges to evaluate the reliability and validity of triage systems. ⋯ Triage should be viewed as diagnostic research and would benefit if it would use the available methodology in diagnostic research.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter Study
First item response theory analysis on Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (fear of movement) in arthritis.
To conduct the initial modern measurement theory analyses because of its many advantages on the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia and emerging evidence suggesting that fear of movement influences functional disability in people with arthritis. ⋯ Item response theory analyses looked at each item's performance and we can strongly suggest using our modified scale (11 items out of the 16 items), which provides relatively uniform precision of measurement across a wide range of fear of movement in people with arthritis. The item parameters from this study can build a computerized adaptive testing for this scale.
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Conclusions based on meta-analyses of randomized trials carry a status of "truth." Methodological components may identify trials with systematic errors ("bias"). Trial sequential analysis (TSA) evaluates random errors in meta-analysis. We analyzed meta-analyses on laparoscopic vs. small-incision cholecystectomy regarding different outcome measures for the occurrence of type I errors. ⋯ Our results provide incentives to conduct a new trial with a low risk of bias focusing on a new composite outcome measure of SAEs to obtain conclusive evidence on which operative method to recommend.