Type Of Brace Research Articles

Farklı Çelik Çapraz Türlerinin Betonarme Çerçeve Sistem Güçlendirmesine Etkisi

One of the common methods used as an alternative to shear walls in the retrofit of reinforced concrete (RC) structures is steel braces. The use of steel braces is preferred because of its rapid application as well as the increase in stiffness and strength. By using different types of braces in reinforced concrete frames, displacements can be reduced and properties such as structural performance, shear capacity, ductility, stiffness and strength can be increased. If the behavior characteristics of the hybrid system are known, the structural performance of the reinforced building can be predicted after the retrofit. In this study, the effect of different types of steel braces recommended in the Turkey Building Earthquake Code 2018 (TBEC-2018) on reinforced concrete building retrofit, was investigated. For this purpose, a 9-storey RC frame system was retrofitted using diagonal, X, inverted V, V and K type bracings. Considering the strength and stiffness results, an answer was searched for the question of which brace type had the best result in retrofit. The results obtained from the analyzes show that the X and K type bracings stand out in terms of strength and stiffness.

Impact of the Free-Pelvis Innovation in Very Rigid Braces for Adolescents with Idiopathic Scoliosis: Short-Term Results of a Matched Case-Control Study.

We introduced pelvis semi-rigid material (ethylene vinyl acetate) (Free-Pelvis) to improve the comfort and adaptability of very rigid braces (VRBs) for adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), but this can also negatively impact the corrective forces on the trunk. Study Design: This was a matched retrospective cohort study. The inclusion criteria were AIS, age 10–16, VRB 23 h/day, X-rays available, primary curve 36°–65°, and angle of trunk rotation 7–23°. The cases were Sforzesco VRB with Free-Pelvis (FPB). The controls included classical Sforzesco VRB matched for Risser (range 0/4), menarche age (10/15), weight (33.5/83 kg), height (140/180 cm), BMI (13.5/29 kg/sqm), aesthetics (TRACE 4/12), plumbline distances (S1: −60/35; C7 + L3: −10/115 mm), and referred brace use (22/24 h/day). Statistics: predictors of the results have been tested with linear and logistic regression according to the outcome variable type. We performed logistic regression for improved vs. worsened. The explanatory variable was brace type. We included 777 VRB and 25 FPB, age 13 ± 1, 47° ± 8° Cobb, and 11% men. The few baseline statistical differences were not clinically relevant. We achieved in-brace corrections of 15.2° ± 7.7° and 17.4° ± 6.5° for VRB and FPB, respectively (p = 0.21); out-of-brace corrections at 5 ± 2 months were 7.8° ± 0.2° for VRB and 8.1° ± 1.3° for FPB (p = 0.83). The type of brace did not influence the Cobb angle at either time interval or affect the odds of improvement. Free-Pelvis innovation, introduced to improve comfort and adaptability, does not change the in-brace or short-term results of classical VRB and consequently can be safely applied.

Knee braces and foot orthoses multimodal treatment of medial knee osteoarthritis

BackgroundKnee braces and lateral wedge foot orthoses are two treatment options recommended for medial knee osteoarthritis, but the combination of both of them could further improve their effectiveness. Research questionThe aim was to evaluate whether the combination of lateral wedge foot orthoses with two types of knee brace enhances the biomechanical effects and pain relief during the stance phase of gait while maintaining comfort. MethodsTen patients with medial knee osteoarthritis were fitted with a standard valgus brace, an unloader brace with valgus and external rotation functions, and 7° lateral wedge foot orthoses. The pain relief, comfort, kinematics and kinetics of the lower limb were measured during walking without orthotics, with the combined and with the isolated treatments. ResultsThe valgus and external rotation brace significantly reduced the knee adduction moment and allowed more knee flexion both in isolation and in combination to foot orthoses compared to the valgus brace or without treatment. Pain relief was not significant with the different orthotic treatment modalities. The valgus brace and combined treatment with either brace significantly increased the discomfort level, whereas the valgus and external rotation brace or foot orthoses in isolation did not induce significant discomfort. SignificanceAmongst the tested orthotic treatment modalities, the valgus and external rotation brace obtained better biomechanical outcomes while maintaining comfort. The combined treatment with foot orthoses enhanced the effectiveness of the valgus brace, however foot orthoses may be unnecessary with the valgus and external rotation brace.

Comparative Analysis between Various Types of Bracings for Steel Building in Seismic Zones

Abstract: In this research paper we are preparing a relative report on a G+13 tall structure. In this structure we will contrast exposed casing and edges having various types of bracings at the corners. A three dimensional structure is taken, 13 stories is taken with story tallness of 3m. The bars and segments are intended to withstand dead and live load only. Seismic tremor loads are taken by bracings. The bracings are given just on the fringe sections. Here auxiliary displaying and examination is finished utilizing investigation programming Etabs which is a limited component based programming apparatus. A tall structure will be analyzed for seismic loading corresponding to various seismic zones. Effectiveness of bracings in reducing lateral displacements and their efficiencies during the earthquake is to be investigated. So the objective is to do comparative analysis between symmetrical G+13 storey RCC building with bracings and similar building without the bracings using commercially available software. Bracing play important role in keeping structure stable. Earthquake produces inertial forces in structure. X-bracing system has shown good results when it comes to reducing lateral displacements. As much as 26% decrease in lateral displacements in Z-Direction and up to 53% reduction in lateral displacements along X-direction is observed. But X-bracing arrangement shows most increase in value of Maximum bending moment (24.86%) and support reactions (30%).Base shear values are same in both directions. Since number of bracings along X-directions were more, bracings shown good performance in lateral displacements along X-axes. Diagonal bracing shows overall good performance considering Lateral displacements (45.58%), Support reactions (26.77%), and maximum bending moment (14.16%).Weight of the structure remains almost same. Not more than 2 percent change in weights of structure. Since base shear is dependent on weight, base shear also remain similar. Keywords: Comparative Analysis, Bracings, RC Building, Seismic Zones

Effect of Knee Brace on the Electric Activity of Selected Lower Limb Muscles during Walking in Older Adults

Background and Aims One of the treatment methods in the old age is to strengthen the sensory inputs. This study aims to evaluate the effect of knee brace on the electric activity of selected lower limb muscles during walking in older adults. Methods The is a quasi-experimental and laboratory study. Participants were 30 older adults, 15 females (Mean age=62.66±3.84 years, mean height= 159.93±0.02 cm, mean weight= 73.86±11.56 kg, body mass index=28.82±4.17 kg/m2) and 15 males (Mean age= 68.93±5.88 years, mean height=175.07±0.03 cm, mean weight= 81.20±11.07 kg, body mass index= 26.44±3.19 kg/m2). The intervention was the use of a type of brace by restricting knee flexion and extension movements or knee support. Electromyography (EMG) data were analyzed in DataLITE and MATLAB applications using two-way ANOVA with repeated measures, and considering the significance level at P<0.05. Results The effects of braces on the electric activity of tibialis anterior, semitendinosus and erector spinae muscles were significantly different in the loading response, mid-stance, push-off and swing phases of walking. The effect of group on the electric activity of anterior tibialis and biceps femoris muscles in the loading response phase and for gastrocnemius medialis and biceps femoris muscles in the push-off and swing phases were significantly different. The interaction effect of group and brace was significant on the electric activity of the gastrocnemius and vastus medialis muscles in the push-off phase, and on the electric activity of the vastus lateralis and semitendinosus muscles in the swing phase. Conclusion The knee brace improves the electric activity of selected muscles during walking in older adults. However, further studies are needed to prove this claim.

Numerical evaluation on collapse-resistant performance of steel-braced concentric frames

Steel-braced concentric frames (SBCFs) are a popular form of structure and has been widely employed in seismic regions owing to their high strength and elastic stiffness; however, the effects of key parameters on the collapse behavior of SBCFs are unclear due to insufficient investigations, which should be further explored in column removal scenarios. To this end, numerical models were employed to explore the key parameters affecting the collapse behavior of SBCFs in this study. The numerical models of steel frames with or without braces were validated based on previous experimental results. According to the refined model, the effects of brace members of various types and with different slenderness ratios on the collapse behavior were illustrated. The results showed that an X brace type with smaller slenderness ratio is the most appropriate for enhancing robustness against progressive collapse. Thereafter, full-scale numerical models were established to investigate the effect of the column removal position, and the results showed that the frame relied purely on flexural action in a side column loss. Moreover, the effect of the position of horizontal brace layers on the collapse behavior was investigated in the middle and side column removal scenarios. To gain deeper insight into the load-resisting mechanisms, the specific contributions to the total resistance of different mechanisms in different stories, bare steel frames and braces, and tensile and compressive braces were separated. Finally, a strategy for the robustness enhancement of high-rise steel frames was empirically proposed, and it was suggested that the provision of a brace layer for approximately every 10 stories would be effective for the anti-collapse design of high-rise buildings.

Seismic behavior of steel fiber reinforced high strength concrete shear walls with different embedded steel configurations

Four steel fiber reinforced high strength concrete shear walls with different embedded steel configurations were conducted under quasi-static tests, to investigate the influences of the diagonal steel bar bracings in the wall web, the embedded steel tubes in the boundary zone, and the concealed steel truss on the seismic behavior of the proposed shear walls. Furthermore, the finite element modelling and the parametric analysis were conducted and verified against the test results. Research shows that both the reinforcement bracings and the channel steel bracings restrained the development of cracks and decreased the crack widths, especially the channel steel bracings, which showed a more remarkable effect on alleviating the damage of the wall. The two types of the concealed bracings could slow down the stiffness degradation rate, and enhance the plastic deformation capacity of the shear walls. The finite element analysis indicated that a reasonable axial load ratio was conductive to exert the cyclic behavior of the concealed bracings. For the steel truss reinforced concrete walls, the increase of the cross sectional ratio of steel tubes within a reasonable range could improve the co-working performance for the wall panel and the boundary columns.

A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing a Patella-Stabilizing, Motion-Restricting Knee Brace Versus a Neoprene Nonhinged Knee Brace After a First-Time Traumatic Patellar Dislocation

Background: A traumatic lateral patellar dislocation is a common injury in adolescents and young adults. The majority of first–time dislocations can be treated nonoperatively. Various types of knee braces are used for nonoperative treatment, but evidence on the most preferable bracing method is lacking. Purpose: To evaluate the efficacy of a patella–stabilizing, motion-restricting knee brace versus a neoprene nonhinged knee brace for the treatment of a first–time traumatic patellar dislocation at 3 years of follow–up. Study Design: Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1. Methods: A total of 101 skeletally mature patients with a first–time traumatic patellar dislocation were enrolled in the study. After exclusion criteria were applied, 79 patients with a first–time traumatic patellar dislocation were randomized and allocated into 2 study groups: group A, with a patella–stabilizing, motion-restricting knee brace (hinged to allow knee range of motion [ROM] of 0°-30°) and group B, with a neoprene nonhinged knee brace (not restricting any knee motion). Both groups received similar physical therapy instructions and were advised to use the brace continuously for 4 weeks. Overall, 64 patients completed the trial. Results: The redislocation rate in group A was 34.4% (11/32) and in group B it was 37.5% (12/32) (risk difference, –3.1% [95% CI, –26.6% to 20.3%]; P = .794). Patients in group A had less knee ROM than those in group B at 4 weeks (90° vs 115°, respectively; P < .001) and 3 months (125° vs 133°, respectively; P = .028). Patients in group A had more quadriceps muscle atrophy than patients in group B at 4 weeks (24/32 vs 16/32, respectively; P = .048) and 3 months. At 6 months, patients in group B reported better functional outcomes than patients in group A (Kujala score mean difference, 4.6; P = .012), although no clinically relevant difference was found at 3 years. Conclusion: The use of a patella–stabilizing, motion-restricting knee brace for 4 weeks after a first–time traumatic patellar dislocation did not result in a statistically significant reduction in redislocations versus a neoprene nonhinged knee brace, although this trial was underpowered to detect more modest differences. Knee immobilization was associated with quadriceps muscle atrophy, less knee ROM, and worse functional outcomes in the first 6 months after the injury. Registration: NCT01344915 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier).

Scoliosis Brace Finite Element Model and Preliminary Experimental Testing Using Electronic Speckle Pattern Interferometry

This article presents the results of numerical finite element method (FEM) simulations in the Ansys environment of a Boston orthopaedic brace. The geometric model was developed based on the results of digitisation performed by means of a three-dimensional (3D) optical scanner. A test stand for measurement of the brace’s field of displacements, utilising a laser electronic speckle pattern interferometer (ESPI), was used to experimentally verify the FEM model. During experimental testing, special attention was given to applying the loads and boundary conditions used in the numerical simulations. As a result, the relative difference between the experimentally and numerically determined displacements in the central part of orthoses amounted to approximately 0.6%. The experimentally verified FEM model was used to determine the force flow lines characteristic of the brace, indicating the general working method of the brace’s structure. The primary parts of the orthoses, carrying loads correcting the spine and the position of sites exerting little effort from the perspective of their participation in the orthoses’ essential therapeutic application were identified. The results obtained allow for the proposal of methods for mechanical optimisation of the brace’s design. The analysis conducted is universal in nature and can be adapted to other types of orthopaedic braces.

Modeling methods of self-centering energy dissipation braces using OpenSees

Self-centering energy dissipation (SCED) braces as a high-performance structural member has been extensively investigated in the last decade. The unique hysteretic behavior of the SCED brace generally dominates the seismic performance of building structures. This paper presents three available simulation methods for predicting the hysteretic behavior of a typical SCED brace in the widely-used open-source computational platform OpenSees. The simulation methods are implemented using the built-in material and element libraries in OpenSees, and aim to investigate the advantages/disadvantages between different modeling methods. Furthermore, two general-purpose self-centering (SC) uniaxial hysteretic models are developed and implemented for modeling different types of SCED braces. Representative validation studies are then presented through using the developed material models to predict the experimental results of the SCED braces under cyclic loading. The SC hysteretic models can capture primary characteristics of hysteretic responses with reasonable accuracy. Additionally, an improved truss element is also proposed for straightforward application of the developed SC models. The users are able to define the experimentally-observed hysteretic features of the SCED braces in line with the envelopes established in the developed material models. A shaking table test of the SCED braced frame in the literature is further simulated to verify the feasibility of the developed material models and modified truss element under seismic loadings. The research outcomes validate a more convenient and accurate method for predicting the behavior of SCED braces and provide some useful insights on the modeling methods in OpenSees.

Eccentricity effect on the cyclic response of braced frame type-V

Eccentricity on the braced frames can sometimes not be avoided to facilitate some structural considerations, such as openings. V-type braced frames are among the most widely used bracing types because of their satisfying performance. The present study investigated the effect of eccentricity as 15 cm, and 25 cm on the reinforced concrete braced frames of 80 cm x 100 cm in dimension compared to V-type of Concentric Braced Frame (CBF). Results indicated that a frame with 15 cm of eccentricity has almost similar stress but higher strain compared to the CBF while the frame with 25 cm of eccentricity resulted in lowest stress but highest strain. As the eccentricity rises, a frame is likely to behave as a moment-resisting frame. Link beams are the most critical part of the Eccentric Braced Frame

A Review on the Analysis of Building with Different Types of Bracings

Abstract: Bracing is one of the most extensively used lateral load resisting systems in multi-storied frame structure. It helps in reducing structure damage or collapse during an earthquake. To know the responses of providing bracings in high rise buildings is the aim of this study. Hence, it is necessary to demonstrate work on the analysis, design and post effects of bracings when seismic forces act in a building. In this paper, a review is taken out over the analysis and design of buildings with and without bracings to study more detail analytical results and conclusions to find its effectiveness in reducing the impact of lateral loads on high rise buildings in case of an earthquake. Keywords: earthquake, bracings, ETABS, SAP2000, StaadPro

Shared Decision-Making for Juvenile Scoliosis.

Shared Decision-Making for Juvenile Scoliosis.

Investigation of Resilience of Eccentrically Braced Frames Equipped with Shape Memory Alloys

Abstract Nowadays, the use of smart materials in structures is a major concern to structural engineers. The act of benefiting from numerous advantages of these materials is the main objective of researches and studies focused on seismic and structural engineering. In the present study, in addition to the development of finite element models of several steel frames using ABAQUS software, the effect of shape memory alloys (SMAs) on superelastic behavior and the various types of eccentric braces will be checked. Moreover, it was observed that the use of SMAs within various types of bracing systems of steel frames leads to a decrease in the reduction factor of the frames. Also, the eccentric bracing in which SMAs are utilized in the middle of bracing led to the highest effect on reduction of lateral drift of the frames and decrease of reduction factor. The obtained results indicated that the application of smart materials led to increasing of strain energy and base shear of the first plastic hinge, which is followed by a decrease in the reduction factor of the frame.

Bracing for the Patellofemoral Joint.

Patellofemoral disorders are common causes of knee pain that result in frequent visitations to musculoskeletal care clinics. Patellar tendinopathy, patellar instability and patellar maltracking, and pain are some of the most common pathologies resulting in patellofemoral dysfunction. For each of these diagnoses, there are unique orthoses and braces available, some of which are uniquely designed to address the pathology involved. While the spectrum of patellofemoral disorders is wide ranging and can often be challenging to treat, bracing frequently plays a large role in the overall treatment algorithm. In this article, we summarized the current literature and treatment recommendations related to the most common types of patellar braces. We performed a thorough review of randomized controlled trials and up to date literature to reach well-informed conclusions on current best practice regarding the uses of patellar braces for patellofemoral disorders.

SELF-PERCEPTION OF DENTAL APPEARANCE AND AWARENESS TOWARDS ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT AMONG UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS AND INTERNS OF DENTISTRY

Background: Patient’s perception of own facial appearance is also an important contributing factor for treatment planning. Also, knowledge and attitude of patients to orthodontic treatment is becoming more important in orthodontics these days. The study aimed to assess self-perception, awareness and attitude towards orthodontic treatment among dental students and interns. Methods: Data was collected through cross-sectional survey conducted among the dental students and dental interns in KIST Medical College through online google form. Study duration was from August 2021 - October 2021. The data was entered in SPSS software 20. Frequency distribution was generated for all variables. Categorical variables were evaluated using Chi-square test. Results: About 96.7% of the participants believe that orthodontic treatment will improve facial appearance. 61.5% believe that orthodontic treatment is a lengthy and painful procedure. 44.5% does not think orthodontic treatment weakens the teeth. 50% of female believe that orthodontic treatment will give the promising result. Statistically significant difference was obtained with respect to preference of different types of braces among students of different years. 54.9% of the participants are satisfied with the arrangements of their teeth, 20.9% had avoid smiling and 22.5% felt lack of confidence because of the appearance of their teeth. Almost half of the participants (50.5%) think they should have orthodontic treatment and 76.2% readily agree to orthodontic treatment if suggested by the dentist. Conclusions: Dental students and interns had a good knowledge about orthodontic treatment and positive attitude towards it. Gender difference exists regarding the awareness of orthodontic treatment. Statistically significant difference was found in preference of different types of braces in students of different years and interns.

Coronal deformity angular ratio as a predictive factor for in-brace curve correction and long-term outcome of brace treatment in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis.

To investigate the relationship between coronal deformity angular ratio (C-DAR) and in-brace correction (IBC) and their role in predicting the long-term bracing outcome in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). In this retrospective multicenter study, the patient's sex, age, primary curve Cobb angle (at initiation of brace treatment, best in-brace, before spinal fusion, and final follow-up), curve pattern, duration of brace treatment, brace type, and C-DAR at initiation of bracing were recorded. The C-DAR values were classified as < 5, 5 ≤ to ≤ 6, and > 6. The IBC values were classified as ≥ 50%, 40% ≤ to ≤ 49%, and < 40%. We classified the patients into two groups of success and failure according to the Cobb angle at the final follow-up. A total of 164 patients (25 boys and 119 girls) were included. Bracing was successful in 60.4% of them. There was a significant association between C-DAR and bracing outcome (p < 0.0001). 63.9% of the patients with C-DAR < 5 had an IBC ≥ 50%. However, when C-DAR was 5 ≤ to ≤ 6 and > 6, 29.2% and 16.9% of the patients had an IBC of ≥ 50%, respectively. For patients with IBC ≥ 50%, the success rate of bracing was 89.2%. Results of logistic regression analysis revealed that the strongest predictor for brace treatment outcome was the C-DAR, with an odds ratio of 2.11. C-DAR may be used as a predictive factor for the long-term outcome of brace treatment in AIS. IV.

Evaluation of Applicability of 1D-CNN and LSTM to Predict Horizontal Displacement of Retaining Wall According to Excavation Work

During excavation works in downtown, stability and safety considerations of such excavations and constructions are crucial for which continuous wall structures with varying structural components are commonly used. Most of the current models used for this purpose are often complex, where the accepted parameters do not have a clear physical meaning. Moreover, accurate ground movement forecasts are challenging due to nonlinear and inelastic soil behavior. Therefore, this study proposes a method to predict the lateral displacement of the braced wall at each stage of excavation by using all the basic information necessary for braced wall design, including ground information of the excavation site, support methods such as the type of brace, location and stiffness, information about the neighboring buildings, and the results of numerical analysis. One-dimensional convolutional neural network and long short-term memory network are used for estimation and prediction to develop an optimal prediction model based on well-refined but limited data. The applicability of the braced wall was confirmed for safety management by predicting the horizontal displacement of the braced wall for each stage of excavation. The proposed model can be used to predict the stability of the horizontal wall for each excavation step and reduce accident risks, such as collapse of the retaining wall, which may occur during construction.

Comparative Study Between the Results of Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion Using Philadelphia or Soft Collar Postoperatively

Background data: Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is a well-known operative technique for treating cervical disc diseases causing myelopathy and/or radiculopathy. Postoperative immobilization with a rigid cervical brace is widely followed after ACDF using a standalone cage and soft braces frequently. Some authors have recommended using postoperative cervical braces while others do not, and among surgeons who agree with postoperative collar usage, the type of cervical orthoses and the duration of use are also issues of debate. Purpose: This study aims to compare between results of ACDF by using the Philadelphia collar and soft collar postoperatively. Study design: A prospective study. Patient and Methods: This study included 60 patients with ACDF: 28 used Philadelphia collar (group I) and 32 used soft collar (group II). Cases with single-level ACDF to 4 levels are included, and revision and deformity cases are excluded. For one year, both groups were followed up regarding fusion rate, subsidence, cage migration, neck disability index (NDI), and visual analog score (VAS) of the neck and arm pain. Results: Neck and arm pains using VAS scores preoperatively and 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months postoperatively also showed no significant difference between both groups. Subsidence was noticed among two patients (7.1%) in group I and one patient in group II (3.1%). No significant differences in fusion rates were found between both groups. After a 12-month follow-up in more than two-level procedures, the NDI score among group II was significantly lower (p = 0.045). Linear regression analysis revealed that preoperative NDI, age, BMI, and operation level were the predictors of postoperative NDI, excluding the presence of diabetes mellitus (DM) and brace type. Conclusion: Cervical brace after ACDF either by Philadelphia or soft collar does not affect the fusion rate, cage subsidence, or outcomes of the neck and arm pain. (2021ESJ255)

Principles of Bracing in the Early Management of Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip.

Bracing is considered a gold standard in treating Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH) in infants under 6 months of age with reducible hips. A variety of braces are available that work on similar principles of limiting hip adduction and extension. This paper summarises the current evidence regarding bracing in DDH. Most of the literature pertains to the Pavlik harness (PH) and there are few studies for other brace types. Bracing eliminates dislocating forces from the hamstrings, the block to reduction of the psoas and improves the muscle line of pull to stabilise the hip joint. Recent studies have shown no benefit in bracing for stable dysplasia. The rates of PH treatment failure in Ortolani-positive hips have been reported to be high. Barlow positive hips have lower Graf grades and are more amenable to PH treatment. There is consensus that the earlier the diagnosis of DDH and initiation of PH treatment, the better the outcome. Failure rates due to unsuccessful reduction and AVN are higher with treatment initiated after age 4–6 months. Studies have shown no benefits of staged weaning of braces. While there is no maximum time in brace, current consensus suggests a minimum of 6 weeks. The key to successful bracing lies in education and communication with the family.