Joint Area Research Articles

Experimental study on axial compression performance of unbonded prestressed mortise-tenon precast concrete mid joint

This paper presents an unbonded prestressed mortise-tenon precast concrete (MTPC) structure, where the beam-column joints are connected by mortise and tenon construction and are tightly crimped using longitudinal prestressed steel strand. It has the advantages of no wet works, easy on-site assembly, short construction period and can be disassembled. First, the structure and assembly method of MTPC joints were introduced. Five full-scale models of MTPC mid joints and one full-scale model of cast-in-place joint were produced. Then the axial compression test was carried out on these models. According to the test results, the damage mode and axial bearing capacity of the MTPC mid joint were analyzed. The analysis results show that the mortise and tenon construction of MTPC joint can effectively transfer the axial compression load, and its axial compression load bearing capacity is about 37%–46% of that of the cast-in-place joint. Unlike cast-in-place joint, there is an obvious compaction stage in MTPC joint under the axial compression. The damage of MTPC joint is concentrated in the beam-column joint area, and the main damage mode is short column damage. The weakest part of the joint is the lower column mortise, which is weakened by the small cross-sectional area and shear-compression force state. The MTPC joint is sensitive to the construction error and assembly error, which will cause the joint to be in eccentric force state and lead to the decrease of its bearing capacity. Finally, this paper proposes a method to calculate the axial compression bearing capacity of MTPC mid joint.

Bicontinuous microstructure formation of immiscible phases by the liquid metal replacement method and its application to Ti/Mg dissimilar joining

We designed a new microstructure control method (liquid metal replacement method) that creates entirely new composites using the original microstructure as a template. This method selectively replaces a specific phase from a composite with another phase based on differences in atomic interactions. We applied this method to the dissimilar material joining of immiscible titanium and magnesium. After diffusion bonding one side of an interlayer consisting of α-Ti / α-Sc phases to Ti, we butted the opposite side with Mg and reheated. At this interface, selective interdiffusion of Mg and Sc results in the replacement of only the α-Sc phase by the α-Mg phase, forming a new α-Ti / α-Mg bicontinuous microstructure using the α-Ti / α-Sc monotectoid microstructure as a template. The Sc that diffused to the Mg side formed a reaction layer where the MgSc (B2) and (Mg, Sc) solid solution coexisted. These novel composite structures and reaction layers strengthened the joint area. As a result, we suppressed fracture at the joint interface, causing fracture at Mg and achieving a maximum joint strength of 116 MPa.

The Relationship of Physical Properties of Rock to The Slope Stability of The Progo River Cliff in Sentolo-Sedayu, Kulon Progo, Yogyakarta, Indonesia

To support the increasingly advanced development of the Kulon Progo area, road access via the Progo River bridge needs to be maintained in instability. To support this, an engineering geological survey was carried out to find out the relationship between the physical properties of rocks and the stability of slopes on the cliffs of the Progo River. The research method begins with a field survey to obtain lithology and slope geometry data. Scanlines at selected locations were carried out to determine discontinuity areas and interpret rock weathering using a Schmidt hammer. Physical laboratory tests are useful for determining the bulk density and porosity of rocks, while from rock mechanical tests (shear strength) cohesion and friction angle values are obtained. The results of the safety factor analysis using the Slide program show that the slopes generally have a medium-high level of severity (Fk 1.2), supported by quite a lot of joint areas, varying porosity (4.12 – 25.10%) and the level of weathering is at level III-IV. Rock porosity is less related to slope strength, while weathering generally reduces slope stability.

Continuous Low-Intensity Ultrasound Improves Cartilage Repair in Rabbit Model of Subchondral Injury.

Subchondral drilling (SD), a bone marrow stimulation technique, is used to repair cartilage lesions that lack regenerative potential. Cartilage repair outcomes upon SD are typically fibrocartilaginous in nature with inferior functionality. The lack of cues to foster the chondrogenic differentiation of egressed mesenchymal stromal cells upon SD can be attributed for the poor outcomes. Continuous low-intensity ultrasound (cLIUS) at 3.8 MHz is proposed as a treatment modality for improving cartilage repair outcomes upon marrow stimulation. Bilateral defects were created by SD on the femoral medial condyle of female New Zealand white rabbits (n = 12), and the left joint received cLIUS treatment (3.8 MHz, 3.5 Vpp, 8 min/application/day) and the contralateral right joint served as the control. On day 7 postsurgery, synovial fluid was aspirated, and the cytokine levels were assessed by Quantibody™ assay. Rabbits were euthanized at 8 weeks and outcomes were assessed macroscopically and histologically. Defect areas in the right joints exhibited boundaries, incomplete fill, irregular cartilage surfaces, loss of glycosaminoglycan (GAG), and absence of chondrocytes. In contrast, the repaired defect area in the joints that received cLIUS showed complete fill, positive staining for GAG with rounded chondrocyte morphology, COL2A1 staining, and columnar organization. Synovial fluid collected from cLIUS-treated left knee joints had lower levels of IL1, TNFα, and IFNγ when compared to untreated right knee joints, alluding to the potential of cLIUS to mitigate early inflammation. Further at 8 weeks, left knee joints (n = 12) consistently scored higher on the O'Driscoll scale, with a higher percent hyaline cartilage score. No adverse impact on bone or change in the joint space was noted. Upon a single exposure of cLIUS to TNFα-treated cells, nuclear localization of pNFκB and SOX9 was visualized by double immunofluorescence and the expression of markers associated with the NFκB pathway was assayed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. cLIUS extends its chondroprotective effects by titrating pNFκB levels, preventing its nuclear translocation, while maintaining the expression of SOX9, the collagen II transcription factor. Our combined results demonstrate that healing of chondral defects treated with marrow stimulation by SD can be accelerated by employing cLIUS regimen that possesses chondroinductive and chondroprotective properties. Impact statement Repair of cartilage represents an unsolved biomedical burden. In vitro, continuous low-intensity ultrasound (cLIUS) has been demonstrated to possess chondroinductive and chondroprotective potential. To our best knowledge, the use of cLIUS to improve cartilage repair outcomes upon marrow stimulation, in vivo, has not been reported and our work reported here fills that gap. Our results demonstrated enhanced cartilage repair outcomes under cLIUS (3.8 MHz) in a rabbit model of subchondral injury by subchondral drilling. Enhanced repair stemmed from mesenchymal stem cell differentiation in vivo and the subsequent synthesis of articular cartilage-specific matrix.

How Does Customized Cutting Guide Design Affect Accuracy and Ergonomics in Pelvic Tumor Resection? A Study in Cadavers.

Customized cutting guides are technical aids that make primary pelvic bone tumor resection safer and more reliable. Although the effectiveness of such devices appears to be widely accepted, their conception and design remain varied. Two main designs have been reported: the heavier block-type customized cutting guides and the lighter patch-type customized cutting guides. As recent tools, there must be more evidence regarding the impact of design on their accuracy and ergonomics. Thus, an evaluation of their respective performances appears warranted. In a cadaver model, we assessed whether (1) a thinner, patch-type customized cutting guide design results in resections that are closer to the planned resections than the heavier block-type customized cutting guides, and (2) the patch-type customized cutting guide design is more ergonomic than the block-type customized cutting guide with improved usability in surgery (in terms of bulkiness, ease of placement, primary and secondary stability, and stability during cutting). We conducted an experimental study involving five fresh whole-body anatomic specimens (three women and two men with a median age of 79 years and median weight of 66 kg) by simulating six virtual tumors in three areas according to the Enneking classification (Zones I: iliac wing, II: periacetabular area, and I and IV: sacroiliac joint area). We compared the impact of the customized cutting guide's design on performance in terms of the resection margin accuracy using CT scan analysis (deviation from the planned margin at the closest point and the maximum deviation from the planned margin) and the intraoperative ergonomic score under conditions simulating those of an oncologic resection of a bone tumor (with a range of 0 to 100, with 100 being best). The patch customized cutting guides performed slightly better than the block customized cutting guides regarding deviation from the planned margin at the closest point, with median values of 1 mm versus 2 mm (difference of medians 1 mm; p = 0.02) and maximum deviation from the planned margin of 3 versus 4 mm (difference of medians 1 mm; p = 0.002). In addition, the patch design was perceived to be slightly more ergonomic than the block design, with a 92% median score versus 84% for the block design (difference of medians 8%; p = 0.03). We observed an equivalence in performance regarding accuracy and ergonomics, with slight advantages for patch customized cutting guides, especially in complex zones (Zone I and IV). Owing to a small cohort in a cadaver study, these results need independent replication. The patch-type customized cutting guide with thinner contact spots to the bone in specific areas and less soft tissue dissection might offer an advantage over a larger block design for achieving negative oncologic bony margins, but it does not address issues of soft tissue margins.

Emerging Role of Interleukin-38 (IL-38) in the Development of Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an incurable autoimmune disease. The role of interleukin-38 (IL-38), an anti-inflammatory cytokine, in RA is not fully understood, and its clinical relevance in RA remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the correlation of IL-38 with disease activity and the clinical manifestation of RA. In this cross-sectional study, patients with treatment-naïve RA (n = 63) and healthy controls (HC) (n = 60) were consecutively enrolled over a 15-month period. Patients with RA were categorized into three subgroups-low disease activity (LDA), moderate disease activity (MDA) and high disease activity (HDA)-using the Disease Activity Score in 28 joints based on C-reactive protein (DAS28-CRP). Circulating levels of IL-38, tumour necrosis factor (TNF), IL-6, IL-17, IL-1β, and 25(OH)D were assessed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Clinical data, including duration, tender joints count (TJC), swollen joints count (SJC), patient global assessment (PGA), evaluator global assessment (EGA), bone mineral density (BMD), clinical disease activity index (CDAI), simplified disease activity index (SDAI), DAS28-CRP, joint musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSUS), and serological indicators were recorded. We determined the correlation between IL-38 and disease activity, as well as clinical manifestation in RA. At the macroscopic level, musculoskeletal ultrasonography of joints in different stages of disease activity in RA suggests that, as the disease progresses, arthritis in the hand becomes more severe, accompanied by synovial thickening and pronounced blood flow signals in the joint area. The expression of IL-38, TNF, IL-6, IL-17 and IL-1β significantly increased in patients with RA compared to HC. Noteworthy differences were observed in the blood flow signal score, synovial signal score, IL-38, TNF, IL-6, IL-17 and IL-1β among the three subgroups (LDA, MDA and HDA). As disease activity increased in patients with RA, the blood flow signal score, synovial signal score and expression of TNF, IL-6, IL-17 and IL-1β exhibited a gradual increase, while the expression of IL-38 showed the opposite pattern. Inverse correlations were identified between IL-38 and pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-17), as well as key clinical parameters, including disease duration, SJC, TJC and DAS28-CRP score. IL-38, intricately linked to the pathogenesis of RA, emerges as a promising therapeutic target for the management of this debilitating disease.

Experimental Study on Seismic Behavior of Newly Assembled Concrete Beam–Column Joints with L-Shaped Steel Bars

A novel concrete beam–column connection utilizing L-shaped steel bars is proposed to address the growing demand for prefabricated buildings and to ensure good seismic performance in such beam–column structures. After positioning two prefabricated beams with L-shaped tendons into the designated connection points at the top and bottom of the columns, concrete is poured into the post-cast section of the joint and the composite beam area, realizing a connection between the beams and columns. Quasi-static tests were performed on four combined backbone curves and one cast-in-place joint to investigate their failure modes and stress mechanisms. Through low-cycle repeated loading tests, it is found that measures such as increasing the area of the post-cast concrete in the joint area, the length of the L-shape, and the concrete strength in the composite beam area can effectively improve the bonding ability between the post-cast area of the joint specimens and the precast members, to improve the ductility performance, energy dissipation capacity, and bearing capacity of the joint specimens. The initial stiffness of the joint can be effectively improved by presetting the steel pipe in the column. Concurrently, the finite element method (FEM) was employed for parameter analysis. By integrating the test and FEM results, an equation for calculating the shear capacity of the connection was derived. The findings demonstrate that the hysteresis curve of the newly assembled joints is full, and its overall performance index is roughly the same as that of the cast-in-place joints. Additionally, enhancing the post-casting area of concrete, the length of the L-shaped bars, the concrete strength in the composite beam region, the axial compression ratio, or the steel tube dimensions can effectively improve the overall performance. The derived equation for the shear-bearing capacity of the connection satisfies design and application requirements.

Influence of joint forms on the seismic behavior of concrete-filled PVC-CFRP tubular column-RC beam joints connected with core steel tubes

To examine the effects of joint forms on the failure mode, hysteretic behavior, ductility and energy dissipation capacity of concrete-filled PVC-CFRP tubular column-RC beam connected with core steel tubes (“RC beam” for short), low-cycle reversed loading tests on 13 cross-joints and 11 T-joints were designed and conducted. The findings demonstrate that the core regions of both joint types experience normal shear failure. Less flexural cracking is present in the RC beams of T-joints, but the concrete crush failure is severer in the joint core area and mostly occurs on the ends of the cantilever beams. The seismic behaviors of both joint forms alter in the same pattern with an increase in the radius-thickness ratio of the core steel tube, the joint area stirrup ratio and the steel ratio. With a rise in the axial compression ratio, the ductility of the cross joints improves but the energy dissipation capacity shows no evident change, while both decrease for the T-joints. The cross joints show better energy dissipation capacity in the whole test. As the reinforcement ratio of the beam longitudinal reinforcement rises, the cross joints show a decrease in ductility and energy dissipation capacity, while T-joints have the exact opposite effect. The seismic behavior of core steel tube joints throughout the whole test is unaffected by CFRP strip spacing.

Performance Evaluation of Tunnel Support System in Jointed Rock Mass by Numerical Simulation: A Case Study

In this study, a numerical verification of the performance of preliminary tunnel support systems suggested by rock mass classification methods is performed. The Rock Mass Rating (RMR) method and the Quality Index (Q Barton) show a succession of a moderately jointed and jointed quality of Kherrata Tunnel 3. The numerical assessment combining the Finite Element Method (FEM) with the Discrete Fracture Network (DFN) models; involves the jointed area of the tunnel, in which the Voronoi model represents the joints distribution. During numerical simulations, particular attention focused on the evolution of the total displacement and the extension of the plastic zone. In addition, a parametric study was carried out to study the effect of the length and spacing of rock bolts on tunnel deformation. Results showed that the combined FEM and DFN models represent a solution for the stability analysis of underground excavations. The Voronoi model is suitable for representing the global distribution of joints in the rock mass. The parametric study carried out revealed pertinent conclusions. Thus, increasing the length of bolts (4 m to 6 m) decreases the total displacement of the tunnel; and reduces the extension of the plastic zone. However, the spacing between rock bolts does not improve the stability. The empirical method remains a reliable tool for the recommendations of preliminary support systems.

Sternoclavicular Septic Arthritis Caused by Parvimonas micra and Fusobacterium nucleatum Infection with Intra-articular Corticosteroid Administration.

Sternoclavicular septic arthritis is a rare form of septic arthritis that can lead to fatal complications, such as abscess formation and mediastinitis, in the absence of prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment. A man in his 40s presented with pain in the right sternoclavicular joint area, and after a joint injection of steroids was administered, he was diagnosed with septic sternoclavicular arthritis caused by Parvimonas micra and Fusobacterium nucleatum. Gram staining of a specimen obtained from the abscess formation area led to early suspicion of anaerobic infection, and appropriate antibiotics were administered.

Pharmacological therapy in the management of temporomandibular disorders and orofacial pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundTemporomandibular disorders (TMD) are manifested by soreness in the jaw joint area and jaw muscles, clicks or creaks when opening or closing the mouth. All these symptoms can be disabling and occur during chewing and when the patient yawns or speaks. Several classes of drugs are used to treat symptoms. This review aims to assess which drug suits the different signs.MethodsPubmed, Web of Science and Lilacs were systematically searched until 01/02/2023. Clinical trials were selected that dealt with drugs used in temporomandibular dysfunctionResultsOut of 830 papers, eight studies were included. The Meta-Analysis with Continuous Outcomes with Pre-Calculated Effect Sizes resulted in the rejection that there is intergroup variability (p.0.74).ConclusionsTreatment of orofacial pain is still a significant challenge for dentistry. We can conclude that there is no drug of first choice in the treatment of temporomandibular pain. However, the clinician must distinguish the type of pain and the aetioloic cause of the pain so that the patient can be treated and managed pharmacologically.

PENYULUHAN TENTANG OBAT TRADISIONAL TERHADAP PENYAKIT ASAM URAT DI SMK SWASTA YAPIM BIRU-BIRU

Pain in the joint area is common condition that occurs in gout sufferers. Pain in the joint area occurs because the uric acid level in the blood is too high. High levels of uric acid will cause a buildup of crystals in the joint area. If gout sufferers take analgesic drugs continuously, undesirable effects can occur. So gout sufferers need treatment without drugs to treat it. A non-drug treatment to relieve pain in the joint area and reduce uric acid levels is a concoction of soursop leaves. Soursop leaves contain the natural antioxidant acetogenin and several phenolics, which work by inhibiting the action of xhantin oxidase which is responsible for converting hypoxhantin into xhantin. The aim of this community service is to provide information to the public about the benefits of soursop leaves as a traditional medicinal ingredient in treating gout. The implementation of this PKM activity was carried out at the Yapim Biru-biru Private Vocational School, which is a vocational high school located in Delitua, North Sumatra, Indonesia. Next, students had their level of knowledge measured by being given a quiz and the results showed that 9 out of 10 questions students were able to understand the benefits of soursop leaves as a non-drug treatment for gout.

Safety and efficacy of autologous bone marrow clot as a multifunctional bioscaffold for instrumental posterior lumbar fusion: a 1-year follow-up pilot study.

Bone marrow aspirate (BMA), when combined with graft substitutes, has long been introduced as a promising alternative to iliac crest bone graft in spinal fusion. However, the use of BMA is limited by the absence of a standardized procedure, a structural texture, and the potential for diffusion away from the implant site. Recently, the potential use of a new formulation of BMA, named BMA clot, has been preclinically described. In this report, we present the results of a prospective pilot clinical study aimed at evaluating the safety and efficacy of autologous vertebral BMA (vBMA) clot as a three-dimensional and multifunctional bioscaffold in instrumented posterior lumbar fusion. Ten consecutive patients with an indication of multilevel (≤5) posterior spinal fusion due to lumbar spine degenerative diseases were included in the study and treated with vBMA. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and EuroQoL-5L (EQ-5L) preoperatively and at 3 months and 12 months after spinal fusion. Bone fusion quality was evaluated at the 12-month follow-up using the Brantigan classification on radiography (XR) imaging. Bone density was measured on computed tomography (CT) scans at 6 and 12 months of follow-up visits at the intervertebral arches and intervertebral joint areas and expressed in Hounsfield unit (HU). The results indicate a successful posterolateral fusion rate of approximately 100% (considering levels with C, D, and E grades according to the Brantigan classification) at the 12-month follow-up, along with an increase in bone density from 6 to 12 months of follow-up. An improvement in the quality of life and health status following surgery, as assessed by clinical scores (ODI, VAS, and EQ-5L), was also observed as early as 3 months postsurgery. No adverse events related to the vBMA clot were reported. This prospective pilot study demonstrates the effectiveness and safety profile of vBMA clot as an advanced bioscaffold capable of achieving posterior lumbar fusion in the treatment of degenerative spine diseases. This lays the groundwork for a larger randomized clinical study.

18F-Sodium fluoride PET-CT visualizes disease activity in chronic nonbacterial osteitis in adults.

Chronic nonbacterial osteitis (CNO) is a rare disease spectrum, which lacks biomarkers for disease activity. Sodium fluoride-18 positron emission tomography/computed tomography ([18F]NaF-PET/CT) is a sensitive imaging tool for bone diseases and yields quantitative data on bone turnover. We evaluated the capacities of [18F]NaF-PET/CT to provide structural and functional assessment in adult CNO. A coss-sectional study was performed including 43 adult patients with CNO and 16 controls (patients referred for suspected, but not diagnosed with CNO) who underwent [18F]NaF-PET/CT at our expert clinic. Structural features were compared between patients and controls, and maximal standardized uptake values (SUVmax [g/mL]) were calculated for bone lesions, soft tissue/joint lesions, and reference bone. SUVmax was correlated with clinical disease activity in patients. Structural assessment revealed manubrial and costal sclerosis/hyperostosis and calcification of the costoclavicular ligament as typical features associated with CNO. SUVmax of CNO lesions was higher compared with in-patient reference bone (mean paired difference: 11.4; 95% CI: 9.4-13.5; p < .001) and controls (mean difference: 12.4; 95%CI: 9.1-15.8; p < .001). The highest SUVmax values were found in soft tissue and joint areas such as the costoclavicular ligament and manubriosternal joint, and these correlated with erythrocyte sedimentation rate in patients (correlation coefficient: 0.546; p < .002). Our data suggest that [18F]NaF-PET/CT is a promising imaging tool for adult CNO, allowing for detailed structural evaluation of its typical bone, soft-tissue, and joint features. At the same time, [18F]NaF-PET/CT yields quantitative bone remodeling data that represent the pathologically increased bone turnover and the process of new bone formation. Further studies should investigate the application of quantified [18F]NaF uptake as a novel biomarker for disease activity in CNO, and its utility to steer clinical decision making.

Multivariate analysis of the kinematics of an upper limb rehabilitation robot.

Purpose: The purpose of this work is to present a multivariate analysis of the kinematics of an upper limb rehabilitation robot. Comparing multiple concepts of kinematic chains makes it possible to identify advantages and disadvantages and, as a consequence, choosing the optimal solution to create a physical device. Such actions shall contribute towards automation of the rehabilitation process, bringing benefits to both therapists and patients in comparison with conventional rehabilitation. Methods: Multivariate analysis of kinematics was performed on the basis of three concepts of the kinematic chain of an exoskeleton, enabling the rehabilitation of both right and left upper limb within the area of the shoulder joint, elbow joint and wrist. The kinematic chain allows the performance of simple and complex movements. Results: The results of the conducted multivariate kinematic analysis define specific movements and angular ranges, which may be performed while applying one of the proposed concepts of the robot design. The results made it possible to determine the optimum solution to the kinematic diagram and construction design, which best satisfy the expectations for effective rehabilitation. Conclusions: The analysis of the kinematic diagram concept of the exoskeleton should be done in relation to its design (construction form). Considering the obtained parameters, it is necessary to find an optimum concept and wisely manoeuvre the values, in order to avoid a situation in which one significant parameter influences another, equally important one. It is noteworthy that the introduction of changes into particular segments of the kinematic chain often has a significant impact on other segments.

A method for estimating the contact area of a dual-mobility total hip prosthesis

The term “contact area” refers to the total surface area of two entities in direct physical touch. When discussing an artificial hip joint, “contact area” refers to the surface area of contact between the components of the artificial hip joint (ball and cup) positioned inside the patient. Several methods can be used to figure out the contact area of an artificial hip joint, such as finite element analysis and traditional experiments on contact mechanics with hip joint simulators. The contact area in an artificial hip joint ensures load distribution. For optimal and long-term performance, the prosthetic hip joint’s contact area must be well understood for design, fitting, and monitoring. This study presented a novel method to estimate the liner surface contact area due to interaction contact in the artificial hip joint using a computer-aided design (CAD) program. This study also contrasted numerical approaches utilizing computer-aided engineering software and theoretical predictions based on Hertz theory with three-dimensional processes using CAD software to determine the contact area in the inner liner. There were no significant discrepancies in the outcomes of the three approaches.

СТРУКТУРНИЙ СТАН КОМПОЗИТІВ, СПЕЧЕНИХ ІЗ ПОРОШКІВ сBN З ПОКРИТТЯМ ЗІ СПОЛУК Ті

The paper presents the results of experimental studies of the structural state of composites obtained at high temperatures and pressures from cBN powders with coatings deposited by CVD from Ti compounds using a gas transport reaction. The features and quantitative parameters of the structure of the composites depending on the presence of Ti in the coating were determined. It has been experimentally established that the matrices of the obtained composites are formed by submicron grains of TiN and TiB2, the quantitative differences of which correspond to the concentration of Ti in the coating - from 3 to 8 %. The structure of the obtained composites is characterized by a uniform distribution of the ceramic matrix between the cBN grains, which is achieved due to the high-quality encapsulation of individual grains of the superhard phase in the coating. The ceramic layers have the largest dimensions (up to 10-12 μm) in the area of triple joints, the width of the zone between two adjacent cBN particles is &lt; 1 μm. When moving from a coated powder to a composite, the shape of the diffraction peaks changes, which is associated with the stresses of the first and/or second kind inherent in the studied samples. Sintering of the powder leads to a decrease in the size of the blocks from 56 nm to 27 nm, an increase in the lattice strain from 0.11 to 0.24 %, in TiN - to an increase in the lattice parameter in the composite by 10% (from 0.4244 nm to 0.4253 nm), a decrease in the size of crystallites within individual grains from 100 nm to 20 nm, and an increase in the lattice strain by 0.47 %. At the same time, TiN nitride is supersaturated with nitrogen, which is a significant increase in its lattice parameter, and the coating formed in this case is exclusively oriented in the (022) direction.

Analyzing Thermal Images to Evaluate Thermal Protection in Residential Structures: Lessons from Russian Practices

Building thermography is a non-destructive and effective method for diagnosing the thermal insulation of buildings with various purposes. Regardless of the specifics of conducting thermographic surveys, the obtained thermal images (thermograms) can be analyzed both qualitatively and quantitatively. The first method of analyzing thermal images is implemented using specialized software typically provided with the thermal imaging camera. The second method is carried out based on the results of thermographic surveys following the methodologies regulated by the country’s normative documents. Using the example of thermographic inspection of enclosing structures in a multi-story residential building constructed from reinforced concrete panels, a qualitative assessment of thermal images was conducted to identify potential thermal defects. Thermal bridges were detected in the area of vertical joints of panel plates, and excessive heat losses were identified in the region where the heating device niche is located.Quantitative assessment of thermal images revealed that the thermal resistance in the temperature anomaly area is nearly twice as low as the thermal resistance in the baseline section of the thermogram. One of the variations for evaluating the error of indirect measurements of relative thermal resistance is presented, taking into account the range of measuring instruments used. Verification of the thermal resistance of the enclosing structure of the external wall of the residential building was conducted to ensure compliance with sanitary and hygienic requirements. According to the results of in-situ measurements, it was determined that the temperature on the inner surface of the enclosure was lower than the specified value.

Ab. No. 26 Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Pain in Field Hockey Players of Maharashtra – An Observational Study

Introduction: Field Hockey has a dynamic nature. A sudden change in directional movements may cause the player prone to musculoskeletal injury and pain. Thus, the primary objective of this study was to find the prevalence of pain among these players in Maharashtra state. Secondary objectives were to find the same concerning gender, type of players, and their playing positions. This would help to gain knowledge on the types of injuries caused, to take adequate and appropriate measures for the ultimate prevention, and help to prepare a guideline for injury prevention strategies. Methods: 363 field hockey players, with experience of more than a year, were recruited from various hockey clubs in various zones of Maharashtra. A Cross-sectional observational study was done. After obtaining Ethical approval, participants were recruited as per inclusion criteria. Informed consent was taken and a Nordic musculoskeletal pain questionnaire was administered to establish the pain prevalence via electronic medium. Descriptive statistical analysis was done by using MS EXCEL, to calculate the percentage/average and proportions of pain prevalence amongst – Males and Females; Elite and recreational players; and among various playing positions acquired. Result: It was found highest injury prevalence was in the lower back (34%) among field hockey players. It also showed differences in pain prevalence depending on gender (22%), type of players (42% in elite), and various playing positions (47% in goalkeepers and defenders). Conclusion: It was concluded to have maximum pain prevalence in the lower back region. Owing to the type of players and playing positions, the prevalence also varied. Physiotherapists can help to educate hockey players regarding the targeted prevalent joint areas and guide them to attain appropriate preventive strategies while training these players.

A ROLE OF AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT IN DAKSHIN VAATKAPHAJ GRUDHRASI W.S.T TO SCIATICA A CASE STUDY

Grudhasi is a painful condition that makes it difficult to perform normal activities due to the inability to sit or walk normally. The pain usually starts in the lower back. It radiates to the sacroiliac joint area. Thighs, calves, feet. Sciatica is a symptom, not a diagnosis. It is caused by irritation of the spinal nerve roots associated with the herniated disc L4-L5 or L5-S1. Ayurvedic Hospital, Yavatmal evaluates the effectiveness of Ayurvedic treatments. A 40- year-old male patient visited our hospital with severe discomfort in his right calf and foot and difficulty walking (Paadshul). So he underwent Ayurvedic treatment involving Shaman and Panchkarma Chikitsa for one month. Response to treatment was recorded and treatment effectiveness assessed through symptom relief. Clinical symptoms decreased significantly, and pain also decreased from 4 to 2.