Fabrication of organic-inorganic hybrid materials on metal surface for optimizing electrochemical performance.

Surface chemistry is a significant field of research, especially for the preparation of organic-inorganic hybrid materials in which nearly every atom is anchored at the interface. Herein we report on the functional binding agents (FBAs), Mg(OH) or Co(OH)-Mg(OH)-Co(OH)(NO), as efficient tools for functionalising surfaces, whereby the morphology and growth of the organic-inorganic coating can be varied by varying the interfacial composition to achieve improved functionality. To demonstrate the potential of this strategy, we combine plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) and a two-step dip chemical coating (DCC) technique to deliver multi-layered constructions of several chemical compositions comprising inorganic and organic components.

Reliability of measures of scapular protraction strength in the supine and seated positions.

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to investigate the intra-rater reliability of measures of scapular protraction strength using a novel method. [Subjects] Forty-nine healthy subjects participated in this study. [Methods] Subjects performed maximal isometric scapular protraction on the left and right sides in the supine and seated positions.

Effects of a Home Exercise Program on the Self-report Disability Index and Gait Parameters in Patients with Lumbar Spinal Stenosis.

[Purpose] The present study was performed to identify the effect of a home exercise program on the self-reported disability index and gait parameters in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS). [Methods] Fifteen patients with LSS were enrolled in this study and were trained in a 4-week home exercise program (40 min/day). All patients were evaluated with three self-reported disability indices (Oswestry Disability Index, Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire, and Spinal Stenosis Scale), and gait parameters were assessed using a GAITRite system before and after the home exercise program.

The effects of lumbo-pelvic postural taping on gait parameters in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis.

Background: Altered gait patterns with lumbar-flexed posture threaten the quality of life in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis; however, few studies have developed management strategies to improve gait patterns and lumbo-pelvic posture. The present study investigated the effects of lumbo-pelvic postural taping on pelvic tilt, spatiotemporal gait parameters, and pain during walking in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis.

Methods: The pelvic tilt and gait parameters were assessed in 20 patients with lumbar spinal stenosis before sustained walking using a palpation meter and GAITRite system, respectively.

Effects of non-paretic arm exercises using a tubing band on abdominal muscle activity in stroke patients.

Background: Abdominal strengthening exercises are important for stroke patients; however, there is a lack of research on therapeutic exercises for increasing abdominal muscle activity in stroke patients.

Objective: We investigated the effects of non-paretic arm exercises using a tubing band on abdominal muscle activity in stroke patients.

Methods: In total, 18 hemiplegic subjects (13 males, 5 females) were recruited.

[The effects of solution-focused group counseling on the stress response and coping strategies in the delinquent juveniles].

Purpose: This study was conducted to examine the effects of solution-focused group counseling on the general stress, stress response and coping in the delinquent juveniles.

Method: The subjects consisted of a convenience samlple of 60 delinquent juveniles who had been placed under probation in Kwang-ju, and recruited from Oct., 2000 to Dec.