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INTRODUCTION: Brace treatment is common to address radiological dysplasia in infants with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH); however, it is unclear whether bracing provides significant benefit above careful observation by ultrasound. If observation alone is non-inferior to bracing for radiological dysplasia, unnecessary treatment may be avoided. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to determine whether observation is non-inferior to bracing for infants with radiological dysplasia. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: This will be a multicentre, global, randomised, non-inferiority trial performed under the auspices of a global prospective registry for infants and children diagnosed with DDH. Patients will be included if they present with radiological dysplasia (centred hip, alpha angle 43-60°, percent femoral head coverage greater than 35% measured on ultrasound) of a clinically stable hip under 3 months old. Patients will be excluded if they present with clinical hip instability, have received prior treatment or have known/suspected neuromuscular, collagen, chromosomal or lower-extremity congenital abnormalities or syndromic-associated hip abnormalities. Patients will be enrolled and randomised to undergo observation alone or brace treatment with a Pavlik harness for a minimum of 6 weeks. Follow-up visits will occur at 6 weeks, 1 year and 2 years post-enrolment. The primary outcome will be the norm-referenced acetabular index measured on the 2-year radiograph with a 3° non-inferiority margin. A total of 514 patients will be included.The study is anticipated to start in April 2024 and end in September 2028.The primary outcome will be compared between arms with a mixed-effects model with a random intercept for study centre, and a single covariate for the treatment group. If the lower bound of the 95% CI lies within 3° of the mean, we will treat this as evidence for non-inferiority. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: Ethics approval has been obtained from the lead sites ethics board (University of British Columbia, Childrens and Womens Research Ethics Board). Ethics approval will be obtained from the local ethics committees or institutional review boards at each institution prior to patient enrolment. It is intended that the results of this study shall be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at suitable conferences. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT05869851.

For a vertex set X $X$ in a graph, the edge cut∂(X) $\partial (X)$ is the set of edges with exactly one end vertex in X $X$. An edge cut ∂(X) $\partial (X)$ is tight if every perfect matching of the graph contains exactly one edge in ∂(X) $\partial (X)$. A matching covered bipartite graph G $G$ is a brace if, for every tight cut ∂(X) $\partial (X)$, |X|=1 $|X|=1$ or |X¯|=1 $|\bar{X}|=1$, where X¯=V(G)⧹X $\bar{X}=V(G)\setminus X$. Braces play an important role in Lovász's tight cut decomposition of matching covered graphs. The bicontraction of a vertex v $v$ of degree two in a graph, with precisely two neighbours v1 ${v}_{1}$ and v2 ${v}_{2}$, consists of shrinking the set {v1,v,v2} $\{{v}_{1},v,{v}_{2}\}$ to a single vertex. The retract of a matching covered graph G $G$ is the graph obtained from G $G$ by repeatedly the bicontractions of vertices of degree two. An edge e $e$ of a brace G $G$ with at least six vertices is thin if the retract of G−e $G-e$ is a brace. McCuaig showed that every brace of order at least six has a thin edge. In a brace G $G$ of order six or more, Carvalho, Lucchesi and Murty proved that G $G$ has two thin edges, and conjectured that G $G$ contains two nonadjacent thin edges. Further, they made a stronger conjecture: There exists a positive constant c $c$ such that every brace G $G$ has c|V(G)| $c|V(G)|$ thin edges. By showing that, in every cubic brace G $G$ of order at least six, there exists a matching M $M$ of size at least |V(G)|∕10 $|V(G)|\unicode{x02215}10$ such that every edge in M $M$ is thin, we prove that the above two conjectures hold for cubic braces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Various treatment approaches for individuals with ankle sprains can reduce treatment costs and enhance recovery. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of spring ankle braces with splints and casts in treating ankle sprains. Materials and methods: This cross-sectional study involved 60 patients diagnosed with ankle sprains at the orthopedic clinic of Imam Khomeini Hospital in Jiroft in 2022. Following diagnosis confirmation through additional examinations and imaging, patients with ankle sprains not requiring surgery were selected and placed in two groups: one treated with spring ankle braces and the other with splints or casts. Both groups underwent a 4-week treatment regimen, comprising 30 individuals each. Data were collected and analyzed using SPSS version 26. Results: The average age of patients was 32.5 ± 13.4 years. Of the ankle sprain patients, 56.7% were male. Patients reported the highest satisfaction levels with the plaster cast treatment method. A statistically significant relationship was found between patient satisfaction and the treatment methods of spring ankle braces and plaster casting (P < 0.05). Patients treated with plaster casts reported the lowest pain levels, with a significant relationship between pain levels and the two treatment methods (P < 0.05). Range of motion results were similar for both treatment methods, while the cast treatment showed the highest incidence of skin complications. A significant relationship was observed between spring ankle braces and plaster casts regarding skin complications (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Treating ankle sprains with plaster casts leads to higher satisfaction and lower pain levels compared to using spring ankle braces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Musculoskeletal (MSK) injury is an inherent risk for military personnel that can potentially impact job performance, productivity, and military readiness. Evidence is needed to show the efficacy of nonpharmacological, self-managed therapies to reduce MSK symptoms at common injury sites that are feasible for use during expeditionary operations and home stations. This systematic review and meta-analysis identified, summarized, and synthesized available evidence from randomized and non‐randomized trials on the effectiveness of self-managed, home-use therapies to improve pain, muscle strength, and physical performance in military personnel with MSK injuries, when compared to controls. Methods The electronic databases of MEDLINE ALL Ovid, Embase.com, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Clinicaltrial.gov, and CINAHL Complete via EBSCO were systematically searched for relevant reports published in English. Utilizing the Covidence platform and consistent with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, multiple reviewers, using pre-determined data fields, screened for eligibility, assessed risk of bias (RoB), and performed data extraction. Evaluation of treatment effectiveness was determined using multilevel mixed-effects meta-analysis. Results The database and register search yielded 1,643 reports that were screened for eligibility. After screening of titles/abstracts and full texts, 21 reports were identified for evidence synthesis. Of these, two reports were excluded and two described the same study, resulting in a final list of 18 studies (19 reports). For quality assessment, the overall RoB for the 18 studies was categorized as 33.3% low risk, 55.6% with some concerns, and 11.1% high risk. Across the five domains of bias, 70% of the reports were classified as low risk. This systematic review found that the differences in interventions, outcome measures, and design between the studies were associated with a substantial degree of heterogeneity (I2 = 60.74%), with a small overall improvement in outcomes of the interventions relative to their specific control (standard mean difference 0.28; 95% CI, 0.12 to 0.45). There were varying degrees of heterogeneity for individual body regions. This was due, in part, to a small number of studies per bodily location and differences in the study designs. For the neck/shoulder, heterogeneity was moderate, with the clearest positive effect being for physical performance outcomes via other medical devices. For the back, there was substantial heterogeneity between studies, with modest evidence that pain was favorably improved by other medical devices and exercise interventions. For the leg, one study showed a clear large effect for other medical devices (shockwave treatment) on pain with substantial heterogeneity. The best evidence for positive effects was for the knee, with mainly negligible heterogeneity and some benefits from bracing, electrotherapy, and exercise. Conclusion Evidence showed small beneficial effects in pain, strength, and physical performance by individual body regions for some interventions, compared to controls. The best evidence for a positive effect was for the knee. The findings suggest that some benefit may be obtained by including several treatments during deployment in austere environments and prolonged casualty care scenarios of military personnel with MSK injuries. Further research is warranted to better assess the potential benefits of using these treatments during deployments in austere environments as part of an individualized, multimodal approach for MSK injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Abstract Background Various treatment approaches for individuals with ankle sprains can reduce treatment costs and enhance recovery. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of spring ankle braces with splints and casts in treating ankle sprains. Materials and methods This cross-sectional study involved 60 patients diagnosed with ankle sprains at the orthopedic clinic of Imam Khomeini Hospital in Jiroft in 2022. Following diagnosis confirmation through additional examinations and imaging, patients with ankle sprains not requiring surgery were selected and placed in two groups: one treated with spring ankle braces and the other with splints or casts. Both groups underwent a 4-week treatment regimen, comprising 30 individuals each. Data were collected and analyzed using SPSS version 26. Results The average age of patients was 32.5 ± 13.4 years. Of the ankle sprain patients, 56.7% were male. Patients reported the highest satisfaction levels with the plaster cast treatment method. A statistically significant relationship was found between patient satisfaction and the treatment methods of spring ankle braces and plaster casting (P

The current study aimed to design a patellar-tendon-bearing (PTB) brace capable of measuring and quantifying weight offloading on the tibia. The PTB brace was designed with off-loading mechanism on the tibia with features, including ankle joint, vertical sliding adaptor, vertical sliding piece, and upper connector of load cells to PTB brace. Also, the present study investigated the effect of brace on 20 healthy individuals under 8 different off-loading conditions, based on measuring the vertical distance between the calf shells and foot plate through a sliding adapter at 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, and 3.5 cm. The Pedar device and load cells embedded in PTB brace were used to determine the extent of offloading and assess the reliability and validity of brace. Increasing the vertical distance between the calf shells and the footplate can lead to a greater amount of offloading. Accordingly, off-loading ranged from a minimum of 16.5% at 0 cm position to a maximum of 60.48% at 3.5 cm position of sliding adapter. Percentage values of tibia off-loading in 8 conditions were not significantly different in Padar devices and PTB brace. Therefore, PTB brace load cells, as a valid method, can measure off-loading levels. When fabricating a PTB brace, a monitoring system with load cells is essential to measure the amount of tibial offloading, leading to readjustment if limb slides down inside the brace. Additionally, a component is needed to correctly position limb in off-loading condition. In the current study, sliding adapter of brace can provide that capability.

Objective Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is the most prevalent spinal deformity affecting healthy children. Although AIS typically lacks symptomatic manifestations, its resultant deformities can affect patients' quality of life (QoL). Evaluating QoL and stress levels is crucial in determining the optimal brace type for AIS patients; however, research comparing the effectiveness of different brace types in this regard is lacking. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the impact of Boston versus Chêneau braces on QoL and stress levels in AIS patients. Methods This cross‐sectional study was conducted at a medical institution in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, involving 52 eligible patients selected through stratified random sampling based on type of brace as the main stratum. The inclusion criteria were idiopathic scoliosis, age ≥ 10 years, bracing for at least 3 months, and no history of cancer. QoL was evaluated according to the revised Scoliosis Research Society 22‐item questionnaire (SRS‐22r) and stress levels according to the eight‐item Bad Sobernheim stress questionnaire (BSSQ‐Brace). Independent‐sample t‐tests were used to compare brace‐related QoL and stress level according to participants' sex and brace type. Results Overall, 32 participants were treated with Boston braces (seven men and 25 women), with a median (IQR) age of 11.00 years (10.00–13.00), and 20 participants were treated with Chêneau braces (three men, 17 women), with a median (IQR) age of 12.50 years (10.00–14.25). The total SRS‐22 score was not significantly different between the brace groups (p = 0.158). However, patients in the Boston brace group reported significantly higher satisfaction levels (median = 4.00, IQR = 3.50–4.50) than did those in the Chêneau brace group (median = 3.25, IQR = 2.38–4.13, p = 0.013, moderate effect size = 0.345, 95% CI = 0.060 to 0.590). Furthermore, the BSSQ‐brace total score was significantly higher in the Boston brace group (median = 9.00, IQR = 8.00–12.00) than in the Chêneau brace group (median = 7.50, IQR = 4.75–10.00, p = 0.007, moderate effect size = 0.376, 95% CI = 0.130 to 0.590), indicating higher stress levels in the Chêneau brace group. Conclusion The QoL in AIS patients undergoing brace treatment was comparable across groups. Nonetheless, patients who used Chêneau braces experienced higher stress levels and lower treatment satisfaction rates than did those who used Boston braces. These findings can inform clinical decisions regarding prescription of bracing types and highlight the need for further in‐depth research.

Objective: Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is the most prevalent spinal deformity affecting healthy children. Although AIS typically lacks symptomatic manifestations, its resultant deformities can affect patients' quality of life (QoL). Evaluating QoL and stress levels is crucial in determining the optimal brace type for AIS patients; however, research comparing the effectiveness of different brace types in this regard is lacking. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the impact of Boston versus Chêneau braces on QoL and stress levels in AIS patients. Methods: This cross‐sectional study was conducted at a medical institution in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, involving 52 eligible patients selected through stratified random sampling based on type of brace as the main stratum. The inclusion criteria were idiopathic scoliosis, age ≥ 10 years, bracing for at least 3 months, and no history of cancer. QoL was evaluated according to the revised Scoliosis Research Society 22‐item questionnaire (SRS‐22r) and stress levels according to the eight‐item Bad Sobernheim stress questionnaire (BSSQ‐Brace). Independent‐sample t‐tests were used to compare brace‐related QoL and stress level according to participants' sex and brace type. Results: Overall, 32 participants were treated with Boston braces (seven men and 25 women), with a median (IQR) age of 11.00 years (10.00–13.00), and 20 participants were treated with Chêneau braces (three men, 17 women), with a median (IQR) age of 12.50 years (10.00–14.25). The total SRS‐22 score was not significantly different between the brace groups (p = 0.158). However, patients in the Boston brace group reported significantly higher satisfaction levels (median = 4.00, IQR = 3.50–4.50) than did those in the Chêneau brace group (median = 3.25, IQR = 2.38–4.13, p = 0.013, moderate effect size = 0.345, 95% CI = 0.060 to 0.590). Furthermore, the BSSQ‐brace total score was significantly higher in the Boston brace group (median = 9.00, IQR = 8.00–12.00) than in the Chêneau brace group (median = 7.50, IQR = 4.75–10.00, p = 0.007, moderate effect size = 0.376, 95% CI = 0.130 to 0.590), indicating higher stress levels in the Chêneau brace group. Conclusion: The QoL in AIS patients undergoing brace treatment was comparable across groups. Nonetheless, patients who used Chêneau braces experienced higher stress levels and lower treatment satisfaction rates than did those who used Boston braces. These findings can inform clinical decisions regarding prescription of bracing types and highlight the need for further in‐depth research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study aimed to design a patellar-tendon-bearing (PTB) brace capable of measuring and quantifying weight offloading on the tibia. The PTB brace was designed with off-loading mechanism on the tibia with features, including ankle joint, vertical sliding adaptor, vertical sliding piece, and upper connector of load cells to PTB brace. Also, the present study investigated the effect of brace on 20 healthy individuals under 8 different off-loading conditions, based on measuring the vertical distance between the calf shells and foot plate through a sliding adapter at 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, and 3.5 cm. The Pedar device and load cells embedded in PTB brace were used to determine the extent of offloading and assess the reliability and validity of brace. Increasing the vertical distance between the calf shells and the footplate can lead to a greater amount of offloading. Accordingly, off-loading ranged from a minimum of 16.5% at 0 cm position to a maximum of 60.48% at 3.5 cm position of sliding adapter. Percentage values of tibia off-loading in 8 conditions were not significantly different in Padar devices and PTB brace. Therefore, PTB brace load cells, as a valid method, can measure off-loading levels. When fabricating a PTB brace, a monitoring system with load cells is essential to measure the amount of tibial offloading, leading to readjustment if limb slides down inside the brace. Additionally, a component is needed to correctly position limb in off-loading condition. In the current study, sliding adapter of brace can provide that capability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Braces have been a popular treatment option for scoliosis among healthcare professionals for many years. However, the effect of braces on scoliosis treatment remains a subject of ongoing debate and research. Aims: Our study aimed to evaluate the effects of wearing a spinal brace on vertical jump, postural control, reach distance, and fall risk in patients with Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS). Methods: We included 33 patients with AIS aged between 10 to 18 years old in our cross-sectional study. Patients were randomly subjected to vertical jump test, standing long jump test, timed up and go test, postural control, and forward reach test, while wearing and not wearing the scoliosis brace, respectively. Results: Our findings revealed that patients wearing scoliosis braces had significantly lower vertical jumps (p =.001), standing long jumps (p <.001), and forward reach distances with their dominant (p =.002) and non-dominant limbs (p =.007) compared to those who did not wear the brace. However, there was no significant difference in postural control and timed up and go test between the two groups (p >.05). Conclusions: Our study suggests that wearing a scoliosis brace may negatively affect an individual's vertical and standing long jumps, and forward reach distances. However, wearing or not wearing the brace had no significant effect on postural control and timed stand-up test. Long-term follow-up studies are needed to evaluate the overall effectiveness of scoliosis braces in treating AIS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: Background: Scoliosis, characterized by the lateral curvature of the spine, impacts the spine's alignment in three dimensions. Braces are commonly employed as a conservative treatment for individuals with scoliosis, particularly those with curves ranging from 20° to 40°. This treatment approach's primary objectives include arresting the deformity's progression, enhancing clinical appearance, alleviating pain, improving overall quality of life, and circumventing the need for surgical intervention. The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of Boston and Cheneau braces in individuals with scoliosis. Methods: In this retrospective study, 51 subjects were included and monitored over 2 years. The primary parameters under evaluation encompassed the severity of both primary and secondary curves and compliance with the prescribed treatment. The subjects were classified into 2 groups: those utilizing the Cheneau brace and those employing the Boston brace. Results: The initial mean values of the primary and secondary curves during the first visit were 37.6 (±7.4) and 30.1 (±9.7) degrees, respectively. However, the in-brace curve measurements for the primary and secondary curves were 31.5 (±1.3) and 22.3 (±13.3) degrees, respectively (p-value=.0). The mean compliance values of subjects using Boston and Cheneau braces were 16.8 and 17.3 h per day, respectively (p-value=.1). No significant difference was observed in the correction achieved with the Boston and Cheneau braces during the follow-up period. Conclusions: The results of this study demonstrated a significant reduction in the scoliotic curve while under brace conditions. However, the degree of correction achieved did not significantly differ during the follow-up periods. Additionally, there was no notable variance in the correction obtained between the Boston and Cheneau braces.

PurposeBrace treatment is the most common nonoperative treatment to prevent curve progression in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). The goal of this review and analysis is to characterize curve behavior after completion of brace treatment and to identify factors that may facilitate the estimation of long-term curve progression.MethodA review of the English language literature was completed using the MEDLINE (PUBMED) database of publications after 1990 until September 2020. Studies were included if they detailed a minimum of 1 year post-brace removal follow-up of AIS patients. Data retrieved from the articles included Cobb angle measurements of the major curves at "in-brace," weaning, and follow-up visit(s) for all patients described and for subset populations.ResultsFrom 75 articles, 18 relevant studies describing a follow-up period of 1-25 years following brace removal were included in the analyses. The reviewed literature demonstrates that curves continue to progress after brace treatment is completed with three main phases of progression: (i) immediate (upon brace removal) where a mean curve progression of 7° occurs; (ii) short term (within five years of brace removal) where a relatively high progression rate is evident (0.8°/year); and (iii) long term (more than five years after brace removal) where the progression rate slows (0.2°/year). The magnitude and rate of curve progression is mainly dependent on the degree of curve at weaning as curves weaned at

Background: Using wearable passive back-support exoskeletons in workplace has attracted attention as devices that support the posture of workers, enhance their physical capabilities, and reduce physical risk factors. Objects: This study aimed to investigate the effect of a wearable passive back-support exoskeleton on the activity of the erector spinae muscles during lifting tasks at various heights. Methods: Twenty healthy adult males were selected as subjects. Electromyography (EMG) was used to assess the activity of the erector spinae muscles while performing lifting tasks at three distinct heights (30, 40, and 50 cm), with and without the application of the Wearable Passive Back Support Exoskeleton. EMG data were gathered before and after the application of the orthosis. Results: The use of the Wearable Passive Back Support Exoskeleton resulted in a significant decrease in muscle activity when lifting a 10 kg object from heights of 30 and 40 cm (p < 0.05). Additionally, there was a significant reduction in muscle activity when lifting from a height of 50 cm compared with that at lower heights (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The use of a wearable passive back-support exoskeleton led to a decrease in the activity of the erector spinae muscles during lifting tasks, irrespective of the object's height. Our results suggest that the orthosis we tested may help decrease risk of lower back injuries during lifting.

We develop new machinery for producing decomposability tests for involutive solutions to the Yang-Baxter equation. It is based on the seminal decomposability theorem of Rump and on "cabling" operations on solutions and their effect on the diagonal map T. Our machinery yields an elementary proof of a recent decomposability theorem of Camp-Mora and Sastriques, as well as original decomposability results. It also provides a conceptual interpretation (using the language of braces) of the Dehornoy class, a combinatorial invariant naturally appearing in the Garsidetheoretic approach to involutive solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Orthodontic appliances can influence the oral environment, including salivary pH levels, which play a crucial role in maintaining oral health. Understanding how different orthodontic appliances affect salivary pH levels can help in improving treatment outcomes and minimizing potential side effects. Materials and Methods: In this in vitro study, we evaluated the effects of various orthodontic appliances on salivary pH levels using a simulated oral environment. Four different types of orthodontic appliances were tested: traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, lingual braces, and clear aligners. Saliva samples were collected and subjected to pH measurements using a standardized method. The pH measurements were recorded at three different time intervals: immediately after appliance placement, after 24 hours, and after 48 hours. Results: The initial pH values varied among the different orthodontic appliances: metal braces (pH 7.2), ceramic braces (pH 7.4), lingual braces (pH 7.1), and clear aligners (pH 7.5). After 24 hours, there was a decrease in pH levels for all groups: metal braces (pH 6.8), ceramic braces (pH 7.0), lingual braces (pH 6.7), and clear aligners (pH 7.2). After 48 hours, the pH levels continued to decrease: metal braces (pH 6.5), ceramic braces (pH 6.8), lingual braces (pH 6.4), and clear aligners (pH 6.9). Conclusion: Our findings suggest that different orthodontic appliances have varying effects on salivary pH levels. Metal braces and lingual braces tend to cause a more pronounced decrease in salivary pH compared to ceramic braces and clear aligners. Monitoring salivary pH levels during orthodontic treatment may be beneficial in identifying potential risks to oral health and implementing appropriate interventions.

BackgroundJuvenile idiopathic scoliosis (JIS) outcomes with brace treatment are limited with poorly described bracing protocols. Between 49 and 100% of children with JIS will progress to surgery, however, young age, long follow-up, and varying treatment methods make studying this population difficult. The purpose of this study is to report the outcomes of bracing in JIS treated with a Boston brace™ and identify risk factors for progression and surgical intervention.MethodsThis is a single-center retrospective review of 175 patients with JIS who initiated brace treatment between the age of 4 and 9 years. A cohort of 140 children reached skeletal maturity; 91 children had surgery or at least 2 year follow-up after brace completion. Standard in-brace protocol for scoliosis 320° was a Boston brace for 18-20 h/day after MRI (n = 82). Family history, MRI abnormalities, comorbidities, curve type, curve magnitude, bracing duration, number of braces, compliance by report, and surgical interventions were recorded.ResultsChildren were average 7.9 years old (range 4.1-9.8) at the initiation of bracing. The Boston brace™ was prescribed in 82 patients and nine used night bending brace. Mid-thoracic curves (53%) was the most frequent deformity. Maximum curve at presentation was on average 30 ± 9 degrees, in-brace curve angle was 16 ± 8 degrees, and in-brace correction was 58 ± 24 percent. Patients were braced an average of 4.6 ± 1.9 years. 61/91 (67%) went on to posterior spinal fusion at 13.3 ± 2.1 (range 9.3-20.9) years and curve magnitude of 61 ± 12 degrees. Of those that underwent surgery, 49/55 (86%) progressed > 10°, 6/55 (11%) stabilized within 10°, and 0/55 (0%) improved > 10° with brace wear. No children underwent growth-friendly posterior instrumentation. Of the 28 who did not have surgical correction, 3 (11%) progressed > 10°, 13/28 (46%) stabilized within 10°, and 12/28 (43%) improved > 10° with brace wear.ConclusionsThis large series of JIS patients with bracing followed to skeletal maturity with long-term follow-up. Surgery was avoided in 33% of children with minimal to no progression, and no child underwent posterior growth-friendly constructs. Risk factors of needing surgery were noncompliance and larger curves at presentation.

Quotient grading classes are essential participants in the computation of the intrinsic fundamental group π 1 (A) of an algebra A. In order to study quotient gradings of a finite-dimensional semisimple complex algebra A it is sufficient to understand the quotient gradings of twisted group algebra gradings. We establish the graded structure of such quotients using Mackey's obstruction class. Then, for matrix algebras A = M n (C) we tie up the concepts of braces, group-theoretic Lagrangians and elementary crossed products. We also manage to compute the intrinsic fundamental group of the diagonal algebras A = C 4 and A = C 5. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We explain how the germ of the structure group of a cycle set decomposes as a product of its Sylow-subgroups, and how this process can be reversed to construct cycle sets from ones with coprime classes. We study Dehornoy's class associated to a cycle set, and conjecture a bound that we prove in a specific case. We combine the use of braces and a monomial representation, in particular to answer a question by Dehornoy on retrieving the Garside structure without a theorem of Rump, while also retrieving said theorem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given two operations ∗ and ∘ on a set S, an operation ⋆ on S is said to be a collaboration between ∗ and ∘ if for all a , b ∈ S , a ⋆ b ∈ { a ∗ b , a ∘ b } . Another term for collaborations is two-option operations. We are interested in learning what associative collaborations of two given operations ∗ and ∘ there may be. We do not require that ∗ and ∘ themselves be associative. For this project, as an initial experiment, we consider Plus-Minus operations (i.e. collaborations between addition and subtraction on an abelian group) and Plus-Times operations (i.e. collaborations between the addition and multiplication operations on a semiring.) Our study of Plus-Minus operations focuses on the additive integers but extends to ordered groups. For Plus Times operations, we make some headway in the case of the semiring of natural numbers. We produce an exhaustive list of associative collaborations between the usual addition and multiplication on the natural numbers N . The Plus-Times operations we found are all examples of a type of construction which we define here and that we call augmentations by multidentities. An augmentation by multidentities combines two separate magmas A and B to create another, A(B), having A ⊔ B as underlying set, and in such a way that the elements of B act as identities over those of A. Hence, B consists of a sort of multiple identities (explaining the moniker multidentities.) When A and B are both semigroups then so is A(B). Understanding the connection between certain collaborations and augmentation by multidenties removes, in several cases, the need for cumbersome computations to verify associativity. A final section discusses connections between group collaborations and skew braces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a lateral, rotated curvature of the spine. It is a 3-dimensional deformity that arises in otherwise healthy children at or around puberty. AIS is the most common form of scoliosis in the pediatric population. The etiology is multifactorial, including genetic and environmental factors. The incidence is roughly equal between males and females, while there is a higher risk of progression in females. Guidelines for AIS treatment identify three levels of treatment: observation, physiotherapy scoliosis-specific exercises, and braces. In this paper, we carried out a review of the scientific literature about the indication and success rates of the braces provided for free by the National Health Service in Italy (SSN). Despite a general consensus on the efficacy of rigid bracing treatment and its use in AIS, an important heterogeneity about the treatment is present in the scientific literature, demonstrating a high degree of variability. The overall success rate of the braces provided by the SSN is high, suggesting an important therapeutic role in the treatment of AIS. Robust guidelines are needed to ensure uniform and effective treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Finger stiffness is a common complication following hand trauma or surgery. Early finger range-of-motion (ROM) exercises have proven to be the most effective method for preventing finger stiffness. In this paper, we introduce a novel finger brace designed for safe and early active exercises and present preliminary results from a small case series. Methods: Our innovative brace is designed for direct insertion into the finger, ensuring enhanced comfort during use. This brace features hinges that facilitate unrestricted movement in the proximal and distal interphalangeal joints, with each phalangeal component having a rounded shape to prevent rotation. Furthermore, grooves are integrated at the top of the phalangeal components for inserting bars; a straight bar to immobilize and a silicone band to provide elastic resistance exercises within a limited range. Results: Among 26 patients, 17 presented with fractures, five had extensor tendon injuries, and three had dislocations. For patients not requiring surgery, we applied the brace as early as possible. In cases involving surgery, the brace was applied step by step. When fixation was necessary for the first time, a straight bar was applied, and when starting finger movement, a silicone band was applied. The silicone band was then released to allow free finger movement. Except for one patient necessitating extensor tendon reconstruction due to a neglected rupture, all patients achieved full ROM without any complications. Conclusion: Our novel ROM finger brace represents a safe and user-friendly option for effectively initiating finger ROM exercises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Population-based studies have focused on patients' rendering of orthodontic treatment due to their malocclusion and medical needs. However, there is a scarcity of data from national sources on the prevalence of orthodontic visits and associated patient characteristics, as well as their effect on dental health. This study evaluated the demographic differences of orthodontic patients and examined the association between orthodontics use and risk of periodontal disease and oral surgical intervention. Methods: This study used data collected from the 2019 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey. Descriptive statistics were used to evaluate socio-demographics and covariates by the use of orthodontics. Chi-square tests were used to assess demographic differences among respondents who stated whether or not they used orthodontics. Logistic regression models were then used to examine the association of orthodontics and oral health outcomes. Results: The sample size was 12,422, of which 491 respondents indicated a usage of orthodontics. There were significant differences among demographic variables (p < 0.05) that included 61.1% females, 60.8% Whites, 67.6% participants under the age of 18 years old, and a family total income of $100,000 or more (52.7%). After controlling for socio-demographics and covariates, individuals who used orthodontics were less likely to have periodontal disease (AOR = 0.623, 95% CI = 0.610 to 0.637) and tooth extractions (AOR = 0.071, 95% CI = 0.070 to 0.073) than those who did not. Conclusions: Our findings indicate orthodontics usage was higher in females, younger patients, and Whites, highlighting the possible demographic disparities in orthodontics use. Additionally, those who used orthodontics were less likely to have oral health issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Passive and hybrid passive Ankle foot orthoses (AFOs) are the prevalent prescription in drop foot patients to prevent toe dragging during the swing phase. While, these AFOs have some limitations like inability to overcome foot slap, limitation in forward propulsion and inappropriate power generate at the push off. The aim of this study was to design a novel spring damper and evaluate the immediate effects of this AFO on improving the ankle kinetic and kinematic in drop foot patients. This AFO was generated from carbon composite frame and foot section with posterior hinge and spring damper actuator that controlled plantar flexion resistance at the early stance, freely dorsi flexion movement with the ability to store energy during mid-stance movement as well as restore this energy at the pre swing phase. This AFO was assessed on ten drop foot patients who used Posterior Leaf Spring AFO conditions and walked at their self-comfortable walking speed. Then the ankle kinetic and kinematic data in two conditions of with PLS (Posterior Leaf Spring) AFO, and novel spring damper AFO were assessed. Results showed a significant improve in the immediate effect of the kinetic and kinematic parameters. In conclusion, spring damper AFO improved all ankle angles in entire gait cycle as well as the ankle moments and power. Therefore, this AFO should be consider as a selective AFO in drop foot patients.

We study relations between different notions of nilpotency in the context of skew braces and applications to the structure of solutions to the Yang–Baxter equation. In particular, we consider annihilator nilpotent skew braces, an important class that turns out to be a brace-theoretic analog to the class of nilpotent groups. In this vein, several well-known theorems in group theory are proved in the more general setting of skew braces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a common disease that, in many cases, can be conservatively treated through bracing. High adherence to brace prescription is fundamental to gaining the maximum benefit from this treatment approach. Wearable sensors are available that objectively monitor the brace-wearing time, but their use, combined with other interventions, is poorly investigated. The aims of the current review are as follows: (i) to summarize the real compliance with bracing reported by studies using sensors; (ii) to find out the real brace wearing rate through objective electronic monitoring; (iii) to verify if interventions made to increase adherence to bracing can be effective according to the published literature. We conducted a systematic review of the literature published on Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, Scopus, CENTRAL, and Web of Science. We identified 466 articles and included examples articles, which had a low to good methodological quality. We found that compliance a greatly varied between 21.8 and 93.9% (weighted average: 58.8%), real brace wearing time varied between 5.7 and 21 h per day (weighted average 13.3), and specific interventions seemed to improve both outcomes, with compliance increasing from 58.5 to 66% and brace wearing increasing from 11.9 to 15.1 h per day. Two comparative studies showed positive effects of stand-alone counseling and information on the sensors' presence when added to counseling. Sensors proved to be useful tools for objectively and continuously monitoring adherence to therapy in everyday clinical practice. Specific interventions, like the use of sensors, counseling, education, and exercises, could increase compliance. However, further studies using high-quality designs should be conducted in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: COVID-19 necessitated a reassessment of existing work patterns in all professions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the physical and psychosocial effects of the pandemic on different orthodontic treatment groups. Material and Methods: This descriptive, cross-sectional survey study evaluated data from 235 volunteers aged 18 years and older who were receiving orthodontic treatment (mean age: 23.8+5.8 years; 83 male, 152 female). The 15-item questionnaire comprised three sections: sociodemographic characteristics, the psychosocial effects during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the physical/oral symptoms in orthodontic patients who had COVID-19. Statistical significance was set at P<0.05. Results: Over half (53.2%) of participants stated they attended routine orthodontic follow-up visits and felt no concern about the risk of COVID-19 transmission, while 85.9% said they were happy to receive orthodontic treatment during the pandemic. In addition, 68.1% of the participants considered the pandemic to be advantageous for orthodontic treatment, most commonly because wearing masks concealed orthodontic wires (44.3%). The most pronounced intraoral finding among patients with COVID-19 was loss of taste (5.9±4.6). Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic was found to have no serious negative psychosocial effects. Mask use was reported to be the greatest advantage, while dysgeusia was one of the most common oral findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study was carried out systematically by conducting a review of the literature. The purpose of this study was to conduct a systematic review of the literature to determine the effects of brace wearing on sagittal parameters in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). In this study, PubMed/MEDLINE (National Library of Medicine), Scopus, Ovid, CINAHL, PEDro, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Library were accessed and searched using the patient, intervention, comparison, outcome, and study design model. We included studies that looked at the effects of brace treatment on sagittal spinopelvic parameters in AIS patients over the age of 18. The studies were chosen for their cross-sectional, retrospective, or prospective observational designs, and they were published in English. Review articles, case reports, case study designs, and conference abstracts were excluded from consideration. The methodological quality of the remaining articles was assessed using the Newcastle Ottawa Scale. A total of 12 studies were chosen, and 995 participants were evaluated, with 3 (25%) and 9 (75%) having high and moderate quality, respectively. The studies were classified based on the length of follow-up. Long-term, short-term, and immediate effects of brace wearing on sagittal spinopelvic parameters were reported in four, five, and three studies, respectively. The results of nine studies showed a significant decrease in Cobb angle after wearing the brace, which contradicted the findings of the other two. The cervical and sagittal pelvic parameters, thoracic kyphosis (TK), lumbar lordosis (LL), spinopelvic parameters, and sagittal balance were all evaluated in the intended studies, yielding varying results. According to the available literature, wearing a brace flattens the TK and LL. According to this systematic review, brace treatment may affect sagittal spinopelvic parameters in adolescents with AIS, particularly in TK and LL. The cervical and pelvic parameters yielded inconclusive results. This study backs up the idea that brace design and structure can influence sagittal parameter changes. The limitations of this study include different methods of parameter measurement, variations in the brace types and wear time, varying follow-up duration, and differences in participant characteristics.

ObjectiveTo observe the effects of scoliosis-specific exercise therapy combined with braces and orthopedic insoles on improved spinal deformity and walking ability in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis (AIS).MethodFrom September 2019 to September 2020, 60 outpatient AIS patients were distributed into brace group (n = 30) at random and brace combined orthopedic insole group (n = 30). Both groups underwent brace dryness, and the observation group used scoliosis-specific exercise therapy combined with brace therapy, and on this basis, orthopedic insole intervention was added for 8 h per day for 2 months. At the same time, 20 adolescents of the same age with normal spinal development were recruited as a healthy group. GaitScan instruments were used to collect gait and plantar pressure measurements from study subjects. First, the gait and plantar pressure data of AIS patients and healthy groups were compared horizontally to ascertain the abnormal indicators, and then the spinal deformity and the above abnormal indicators were compared between the brace group and the brace combined orthopedic insole group.OutcomeThe plantar pressure center drift index (CPEI) in the AIS group was higher than that in the healthy group (F = 3.120, P 0.05). After treatment, the Cobb angle was significantly reduced in both the brace group and the brace combined with orthopedic insole group (P 0.05). There were no significant changes in the pressure ratio of CPEI, M/l and bilateral full foot in the brace group (P > 0.05). The CPEI decreased in the brace combined with orthopedic insole group (P

We examine links between the theory of braces and set-theoretical solutions of the Yang–Baxter equation, and fundamental concepts from the theory of quantum integrable systems. More precisely, we make connections with Hecke algebras and we identify new quantum groups associated to set-theoretic solutions coming from braces. We also construct a novel class of quantum discrete integrable systems and we derive symmetries for the corresponding periodic transfer matrices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accuracy of acceleromyography (AMG) is not be comparable to that of mechanomyography or electromyography (EMG). In particular, the prone position may reduce the accuracy and feasibility of AMG. We developed a new device based on wrist brace to allow free thumb movement and fix the other parts of the hand and wrist. We aimed to test whether the brace applied to the AMG would increase precision of AMG and agreement with the EMG in the prone position. Fifty-seven patients, undergoing lumbar surgery under general anesthesia, were randomly assigned to groups to which AMG was applied with or without (no) brace (29 in group B vs. 28 in group NB). EMG was performed in the contralateral arm. Repeatability coefficients of the first twitch height (T1) and train-of-four (TOF) ratio were assessed from nine consecutive measurements during spontaneous recovery from rocuronium-induced neuromuscular block and the AMGs of the two groups were compared in prone position. The agreement between AMG and EMG in each group was assessed using the Bland–Altman method. In group B, the repeatability coefficient of T1 was significantly lower during the recovery to T1 of 25% and TOF ratio of 0.9 (P = 0.017 and 0.033, respectively), indicating higher precision. The mean differences of bias (95% limits of agreement) between AMG and EMG in TOF ratio of 0.9 were 6.839 (− 26.54 to 40.22) in group NB and 3.922 (− 21.83 to 29.67) in group B. The wide limits of agreement in group NB was slightly narrowed in group B but without significance. Trial registration: registered on the UMIN Clinical Trials Registry in August 2020 (UMIN000041310). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Passive and hybrid passive Ankle foot orthoses (AFOs) are the prevalent prescription in drop foot patients to prevent toe dragging during the swing phase. While, these AFOs have some limitations like inability to overcome foot slap, limitation in forward propulsion and inappropriate power generate at the push off. The aim of this study was to design a novel spring damper and evaluate the immediate effects of this AFO on improving the ankle kinetic and kinematic in drop foot patients. This AFO was generated from carbon composite frame and foot section with posterior hinge and spring damper actuator that controlled plantar flexion resistance at the early stance, freely dorsi flexion movement with the ability to store energy during mid-stance movement as well as restore this energy at the pre swing phase. This AFO was assessed on ten drop foot patients who used Posterior Leaf Spring AFO conditions and walked at their self-comfortable walking speed. Then the ankle kinetic and kinematic data in two conditions of with PLS (Posterior Leaf Spring) AFO, and novel spring damper AFO were assessed. Results showed a significant improve in the immediate effect of the kinetic and kinematic parameters. In conclusion, spring damper AFO improved all ankle angles in entire gait cycle as well as the ankle moments and power. Therefore, this AFO should be consider as a selective AFO in drop foot patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonsurgical management is almost always considered the first-line treatment for the vast majority of foot and ankle pathologies. Foot orthoses, shoe modifications, and therapeutic footwear are considered essential tools for successful conservative management of different foot and ankle disorders. Orthopedic foot and ankle surgeons should have a meticulous understanding of the lower extremity biomechanics as well as the pathoanatomy and the sequelae of diseases affecting the foot and/or ankle. This is essential to the understanding of the desired effects of the different inserts, orthotics, shoe modifications, or braces that may be prescribed for these conditions. In this article, we will summarize the orthoses used for treatment of the most commonly encountered foot and ankle pathologies, with the exclusion of treatment for the diabetic foot because of the unique requirements of that disease process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We define an algebraic structure similar to that of a semiring, but without some of the requirements. As it is somehow also similar to the structure of left brace, we call it an M -brace. We present a connection between Garside monoids and more generally lcm-monoids with this algebraic structure. An lcm-monoid M is a left-cancellative monoid such that 1 is the unique invertible element in M, and every pair of elements in M admit an lcm with respect to left-divisibility. The class of lcm-monoids contains the Gaussian, quasi-Garside and Garside monoids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Routinely, adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) curves that progress beyond 40° in skeletally immature adolescents require surgery. However, some adolescents with AIS and their parents utterly refuse surgery and insist on wearing a brace. Debate continues regarding the appropriateness of bracing for AIS curves exceeding 40° in patients who have rejected surgical intervention. This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to review the literature on the effectiveness of bracing and its predictive factors in larger-magnitude AIS curves ≥40°. This study replicated the search strategy used by the PICOS system for formulating study questions, which include consideration of the patient/population (P), intervention (I), comparison (C), outcome (O), and study design (S). The search was conducted up to January 2022 in the following bibliographic online databases only in the English language: PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science. Two assessors reviewed the articles for qualification. Eligible studies were assessed for risk of bias at the study level using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. The effect size across the studies was determined using standardized mean differences (Cohen’s d) and 95% confidence intervals for the meta-analysis. Among the eight included moderate quality studies, evidence of potential publication bias (p

Abstract Background In children aged 3–5 years, femoral fractures are common and are frequently treated using flexible intramedullary nails (FIN) or spica casting. Recently, more surgeons have been relying on FIN surgery because of the high rate of complications associated with spica casts, such as skin irritation and re-adjustment surgery. We aimed to evaluate the effect of skin traction combined with braces in 3–5 years old children at our hospital. Methods We retrospectively analyzed 125 children aged 3–5 years with femoral shaft fractures treated at our hospital between January 2010 and December 2020. We assigned 68 patients who underwent FIN surgery to Group A and 57 patients treated with skin traction and braces to Group B. Comparative analysis included the children’s age, sex, side of the affected limb, cause of fracture, function of the knee joint, healing time of the fracture, duration of hospitalization, cost of hospitalization, and complications. The complications evaluated included joint dysfunction, pain, infection, pressure ulcers, angular deformities, limb length differences, re-fractures, nonunion fractures, and delayed union. Results There were significant differences in and hospital costs (p = 0.001). Conversely, no statistically significant differences were observed in sex (p = 0.858), injury type (p = 0.804), age (p = 0.231), hospitalization time (p = 0.071), bone healing time (p = 0.212), and complications. Pressure ulcers, nonunion fractures, and delayed union did not occur in both groups. Conclusion Both methods had similar therapeutic effects and postoperative complications in children aged 3–5 years with femoral shaft fractures. Therefore, skin traction combined with braces is recommended for this population and for patients hospitalized in institutions where several beds are available, with a consequent possibility of prolonged hospitalization. Level of Evidence: IV.

We define non-degenerate involutive partial solutions as a generalization of non-degenerate involutive set-theoretical solutions of the quantum Yang–Baxter equation (QYBE). The induced operator is not a classical solution of the QYBE, but a braiding operator as in conformal field theory. We define the structure inverse monoid of a non-degenerate involutive partial solution and prove that if the partial solution is square-free, then it embeds into the restricted product of a commutative inverse monoid and an inverse symmetric monoid. Furthermore, we show that there is a connection between partial solutions and Thompson's group F. This raises the question of whether there are further connections between partial solutions and Thompson's groups in general. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study was carried out systematically by conducting a review of the literature. The purpose of this study was to conduct a systematic review of the literature to determine the effects of brace wearing on sagittal parameters in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). In this study, PubMed/MEDLINE (National Library of Medicine), Scopus, Ovid, CINAHL, PEDro, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Library were accessed and searched using the patient, intervention, comparison, outcome, and study design model. We included studies that looked at the effects of brace treatment on sagittal spinopelvic parameters in AIS patients over the age of 18. The studies were chosen for their cross-sectional, retrospective, or prospective observational designs, and they were published in English. Review articles, case reports, case study designs, and conference abstracts were excluded from consideration. The methodological quality of the remaining articles was assessed using the Newcastle Ottawa Scale. A total of 12 studies were chosen, and 995 participants were evaluated, with 3 (25%) and 9 (75%) having high and moderate quality, respectively. The studies were classified based on the length of follow-up. Long-term, short-term, and immediate effects of brace wearing on sagittal spinopelvic parameters were reported in four, five, and three studies, respectively. The results of nine studies showed a significant decrease in Cobb angle after wearing the brace, which contradicted the findings of the other two. The cervical and sagittal pelvic parameters, thoracic kyphosis (TK), lumbar lordosis (LL), spinopelvic parameters, and sagittal balance were all evaluated in the intended studies, yielding varying results. According to the available literature, wearing a brace flattens the TK and LL. According to this systematic review, brace treatment may affect sagittal spinopelvic parameters in adolescents with AIS, particularly in TK and LL. The cervical and pelvic parameters yielded inconclusive results. This study backs up the idea that brace design and structure can influence sagittal parameter changes. The limitations of this study include different methods of parameter measurement, variations in the brace types and wear time, varying follow-up duration, and differences in participant characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aetiology of gingival recessions is not fully understood, and no evidence has yet emerged of a single predisposing factor that instigates this apical shift of the gingival margin. Nonetheless, both fixed retainers and orthodontic treatment have been cited as potential risk factors. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of orthodontic treatment and orthodontic fixed retainers on gingival recessions. In total, 105 patients at the Department of Orthodontics at the University of Gothenburg who had undergone orthodontic treatment between 1995 − 2003 were included in this study. Intraoral photographs of the anterior segment and study casts acquired at baseline (pre-treatment), post-treatment and at the 10-year follow-up were used as recorded measurements of gingival recession and orthodontic treatment. At the 10-year follow-up, the patients were divided into two groups based on: long-term (10 years) presence of a fixed retainer [orthodontic treatment and retainer (OR) group; N = 76]; and short-term (<5 years) presence of a fixed retainer [orthodontic treatment (O) group; N = 57]. These groups were compared to a control group (C) of untreated subjects (N = 29). In the anterior segment, gingival recessions were not present at baseline and post-treatment between the two orthodontically treated groups. At the 10-year follow-up, there was no statistically significant difference between the two orthodontically treated groups and the controls. Orthodontic treatment per se does not increase the risk for gingival recessions, nor does the use of fixed retainers following orthodontic treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To systematically review perceptions from adults, children, and caregivers in scientific and open sources to determine how well lower extremity orthotic devices (LEODs) meet users' functional, expressive, aesthetic, and accessibility (FEA2) needs. Scientific source searches were conducted in the National Library of Medicine (PubMed/MEDLINE) and Web of Science; open source searches were conducted in Google Search Engine in April 2020. Inclusion criteria were reporting of users' perceptions about a LEOD, experimental or observational study design, including qualitative studies, and full text in English. Studies were excluded if the device only provided compression or perception data could not be extracted. One hundred seventy three scientific sources of 3440 screened were included (total of 1108 perceptions); 36 open sources of 150 screened were included (total of 508 perceptions). Users' perceptions were independently coded by 2 trained, reliable coders. Across both source types, there were more perceptions about functional needs, and perceptions were more likely to be positive related to functional than expressive, aesthetic, or accessibility needs. Perceptions about expression, aesthetics, and accessibility were more frequently reported and more negative in open vs scientific sources. Users' perceptions varied depending on users' diagnosis and device type. There is significant room for improvement in how LEODs meet users' FEA2 needs, even in the area of function, which is often the primary focus when designing rehabilitation devices. Satisfaction with LEODs may be improved by addressing users' unmet needs. Individuals often choose not to use prescribed LEODs even when LEODs improve their function. This systematic review identifies needs for LEODs that are most important to users and highlights how well existing LEODs address those needs. Attention to these needs in the design, prescription, and implementation of LEODs may increase device utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describe all left braces of size 8 p for an odd prime p ≠ 3 , 7 and validate the number given by Bardakov, Neschadim and Yadav in [2]. We give a characterization for isomorphism classes of a semidirect product of left braces and then the description is done by first describing left braces of size 8, as conjugacy classes of regular subgroups of the corresponding holomorph, and then checking how many non isomorphic left braces of size 8 p are obtained from each one of them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was performed to review which mHealth apps that improve brace-wearing compliance are currently available, and to carry out their quality assessments by listing their functionalities. We found ten mHealth apps in the literature review and commercial mHealth apps market (Google Play and App store). Then, the quality of these apps was evaluated by their transparency, health content, excellent technical content, security/privacy, issues of usability, and subjective ratings (THESIS) scale, and the functionalities of the included apps were reviewed. Regarding these functionalities, four categories (data acquisition, compliance enhancement, educational components, and additional functionalities) and twelve subcategories were identified. The mean overall quality of the apps was 3.00 out of 5. Although four of the apps achieved a score of 3.0 or more for their overall quality, indicating an acceptable quality, none of the apps scored higher than 4.0, which indicated a high or excellent quality. According to the sections, the transparency section had the highest rating (3.92) and the security/privacy section received the lowest rating (2.02). Given that the overall quality of current mHealth apps was not high, and their potential to motivate patients with idiopathic scoliosis to adhere to their bracing treatment, it is necessary to develop high-quality apps with appropriate functionalities for supporting brace treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Population-based studies have focused on patients’ rendering of orthodontic treatment due to their malocclusion and medical needs. However, there is a scarcity of data from national sources on the prevalence of orthodontic visits and associated patient characteristics, as well as their effect on dental health. This study evaluated the demographic differences of orthodontic patients and examined the association between orthodontics use and risk of periodontal disease and oral surgical intervention. Methods: This study used data collected from the 2019 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey. Descriptive statistics were used to evaluate socio-demographics and covariates by the use of orthodontics. Chi-square tests were used to assess demographic differences among respondents who stated whether or not they used orthodontics. Logistic regression models were then used to examine the association of orthodontics and oral health outcomes. Results: The sample size was 12,422, of which 491 respondents indicated a usage of orthodontics. There were significant differences among demographic variables (p < 0.05) that included 61.1% females, 60.8% Whites, 67.6% participants under the age of 18 years old, and a family total income of $100,000 or more (52.7%). After controlling for socio-demographics and covariates, individuals who used orthodontics were less likely to have periodontal disease (AOR = 0.623, 95% CI = 0.610 to 0.637) and tooth extractions (AOR = 0.071, 95% CI = 0.070 to 0.073) than those who did not. Conclusions: Our findings indicate orthodontics usage was higher in females, younger patients, and Whites, highlighting the possible demographic disparities in orthodontics use. Additionally, those who used orthodontics were less likely to have oral health issues.

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a lateral, rotated curvature of the spine. It is a 3-dimensional deformity that arises in otherwise healthy children at or around puberty. AIS is the most common form of scoliosis in the pediatric population. The etiology is multifactorial, including genetic and environmental factors. The incidence is roughly equal between males and females, while there is a higher risk of progression in females. Guidelines for AIS treatment identify three levels of treatment: observation, physiotherapy scoliosis-specific exercises, and braces. In this paper, we carried out a review of the scientific literature about the indication and success rates of the braces provided for free by the National Health Service in Italy (SSN). Despite a general consensus on the efficacy of rigid bracing treatment and its use in AIS, an important heterogeneity about the treatment is present in the scientific literature, demonstrating a high degree of variability. The overall success rate of the braces provided by the SSN is high, suggesting an important therapeutic role in the treatment of AIS. Robust guidelines are needed to ensure uniform and effective treatments.

BackgroundRevision anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction has been documented to have worse outcomes than primary ACL reconstruction. The reasons remain varied and not completely understood.MethodsPatients undergoing revision ACL reconstruction were prospectively enrolled. Data collected included baseline demographics, surgical technique and pathological condition, prescribed rehabilitation instructions, and a series of validated patient-reported outcome instruments. Patients were followed for 2 years and asked to complete a set of outcome instruments identical to those completed at baseline. Subsequent surgical procedures on the ipsilateral knee were recorded. Regression analysis was used to control for age, sex, activity level, baseline outcome scores, and the above-mentioned rehabilitation-related variables in order to assess the factors affecting clinical outcomes 2 years after revision ACL reconstruction.ResultsA total of 843 patients met the inclusion criteria and were successfully enrolled, and 82% (695) were followed for 2 years. Two rehabilitation-related factors were found to influence outcome. First, patients who were prescribed an ACL brace for their return to sports had a significantly better Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) for sports and recreational activities at 2 years (odds ratio [OR] =1.50, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.07 to 2.11; p = 0.019). Second, patients prescribed an ACL brace for the postoperative rehabilitation period were 2.3 times more likely to have subsequent surgery by 2 years (OR = 2.26, 95% CI = 1.11 to 4.60; p = 0.024). The odds of a graft rerupture were not affected by any type of brace wear.ConclusionsRehabilitation-related factors that the physician can control at the time of an ACL reconstruction have the ability to influence clinical outcomes at 2 years. Weight-bearing and motion can be initiated immediately postoperatively. Bracing during the early postoperative period is not helpful. Use of a functional brace early in the postoperative period was associated with an increased risk of a reoperation. Use of a functional brace for a return to sports improved the KOOS on the sports/recreation subscale.Level of evidencePrognostic Level I. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

The knee unloader brace can change loading on knee which may be effective in reducing symptoms and progression of disease in people with knee osteoarthritis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of a new knee brace during walking in a patient with medial compartment knee osteoarthritis. Two brace types were used: new brace and conventional brace. A pneumatic cuff of novel brace was fitted in the bottom of the medical slipper that was connected to the cuff section of the knee through the tube. After the knee brace is deployed, its force can vary in different stages of the gait. During the heel strike, the weight of the cuff is compressed on the floor, causing the air to flow inside it and entering the volume of air into the knee pad. The results of using this pneumatic knee brace compared with conventional knee braces on a patient showed that in both cases, the open and closed palatal pump, the adduction moment and ROM was decreased in the stance phase. But the three-point knee pressure, however, was less effective in reducing the adduction moment but also reduced the knee ROM. Using novel brace can eliminate the patient’s need for painful and costly surgery to reduce the symptoms of osteoarthritis.