Is modular control related to functional outcomes in individuals with knee osteoarthritis and following total knee arthroplasty?

Background: Individuals who undergo total knee arthroplasty (TKA) for treatment of knee osteoarthritis often experience suboptimal outcomes. Investigation of neuromuscular control strategies in these individuals may reveal factors that contribute to these functional deficits. The purpose of this pilot study was to determine the relationship between patient function and modular control during gait before and after TKA.

Effects of age and knee osteoarthritis on the modular control of walking: A pilot study.

Background: Older adults and individuals with knee osteoarthritis (KOA) often exhibit reduced locomotor function and altered muscle activity. Identifying age- and KOA-related changes to the modular control of gait may provide insight into the neurological mechanisms underlying reduced walking performance in these populations. The purpose of this pilot study was to determine if the modular control of walking differs between younger and older adults without KOA and adults with end-stage KOA.

Low temperature crystallization of transparent, highly ordered nanoporous SnO₂ thin films: application to room-temperature hydrogen sensing.

High surface area highly ordered nanoporous thin films are the current gold standard for gas sensor use, however the nanostructure of such films is prone to collapse at annealing temperatures as low as 250 °C resulting in formation of a dense layer of limited utility. We report on a templating method used to deposit highly ordered nanoporous platinum (Pt)-doped tin dioxide (SnO(2)) thin films that are crystallized by a 100 °C water vapor hydrothermal treatment, with the low temperature process being compatible with a large variety of substrates including plastic. The resulting highly ordered nanoporous, transparent Pt-SnO(2) thin films are mechanically stable and can be annealed, as desired, at temperatures up to 800 °C for removal of the templating materials and tailoring of gas sensitivities without damage to the nanoporous structure.