Objective: To synthesize the available evidence on the effects of constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT) in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy (CP), focusing on upper limb functional outcomes and neuroplasticity-related changes assessed through direct or indirect measures. Methods: This scoping review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA-ScR guidelines and was prospectively registered on the Open Science Framework (DOI: 10.17605/OSF.IO/DU8RE). A search of four databases (PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science) was performed to identify studies involving children (0–18 years) with CP who received CIMT as the primary intervention. Eligible studies assessed neuroplasticity through neuroimaging or neurophysiological techniques. Results: Eleven studies involving 221 children met the inclusion criteria. CIMT protocols varied in duration, intensity, and setting (e.g., clinical, home-based, camp-based). Across studies, CIMT was associated with improvements in upper limb function and spontaneous use. Neuroplastic changes included increased activation in the contralateral sensorimotor cortex, normalization of somatosensory responses, and structural brain adaptations. Adjunctive therapies such as repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation, or occupational therapy further enhanced outcomes. Conclusion CIMT is an effective intervention that promotes cortical reorganization and improves motor function in children with hemiplegic CP. Customizing rehabilitation based on neurophysiological profiles may optimize clinical outcomes.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the resistance to sliding (RS) in self-ligating and conventional ligation bracket systems at 5 different second-order bracket angulations by using low-stiffness alignment wires in a 3-bracket experimental model and to verify the performance of the main RS components in both systems when these wires are used. METHODS: Interactive self-ligating brackets with closed and open slides were used for the self-ligating (SL) and conventional ligation (CL) groups, respectively; elastomeric ligatures (1 mm inner diameter) were used in the latter system. The alignment wire used was 0.014 inch heat-activated NiTi (austenitic finish temperature set at 36degrees C by the manufacturer). A custom-made testing machine was used to measure frictional resistance. Tests were repeated 5 times at every angulation simulated. All data were analyzed statistically. RESULTS: The RS increased significantly with increasing angulation in both SL and CL groups (p < 0.0001). However, the RS values were significantly higher at every angulation (p < 0.0001) in the CL group. CONCLUSIONS: Despite the relevance of the binding phenomenon, ligation forces predominantly affect the RS when low-stiffness alignment wires are used.
Elastomers ; Friction ; Ligation ; Models, Theoretical ; Polymers