Is Rasch model analysis applicable in small sample size pilot studies for assessing item characteristics?
Rasch analysis based on small samples (≤ 50) identified a greater number of items with incorrectly ordered parameters than larger samples (≥ 100). However, fewer items were identified as misfitting. Results from small samples led to opposite conclusions from those based on larger samples. Rasch analysis based on small samples should be used for exploratory purposes with extreme caution.
A total autologous cell culture procedure was used in cellular cardiomyoplasty reducing the risk of arrhythmia. Human-autologous-serum cell expansion avoids the risk of prion, viral or zoonoses contamination. Since patients treated with noncultivated bone marrow cells are free of arrhythmia, the bovine-culture medium seems to be responsible for this complication. Cellular cardiomyoplasty may be efficient to avoid progression of ventricular remodeling and subsequent heart failure in ischemic heart disease.