Effect of Thermal Undulations on the Bending Elasticity and Spontaneous Curvature of Fluid Membranes

We amplify previous arguments why mean curvature should be used as measure of integration in calculating the effective bending rigidity of fluid membranes subjected to a weak background curvature. The stiffening of the membrane by its fluctuations, recently derived for spherical shapes, is recovered for cylindrical curvature. Employing curvilinear coordinates, we then discuss stiffening for arbitrary shapes, confirm that the elastic modulus of Gaussian curvature is not renormalized in the presence of fluctuations, and show for the first time that any spontaneous curvature also remains unchanged.Comment: 26 pages, 2 figures, to appear in EPJ

The unbinding transition of mixed fluid membranes

A phenomenological model for the unbinding transition of multi-component fluid membranes is proposed, where the unbinding transition is described using a theory analogous to Flory-Huggins theory for polymers. The coupling between the lateral phase separation of inclusion molecules and the membrane-substrate distance explains the phase coexistence between two unbound phases as observed in recent experiments by Marx et al. [Phys. Rev. Lett. 88, 138102 (2002)]. Bellow a critical end-point temperature, we find that the unbinding transition becomes first-order for multi-component membranes.Comment: 7 pages, 3 eps figure

Participation of the Lower Extremity Amputee in Sports and Recreation

Due to the increasing emphasis on fitness in our society, there has appeared a significant population of young and/or active lower extremity amputees who have a desire to participate in sports and recreational activities. The physical benefits of participation in sports and recreational activities may be obvious; however, there are many psychological and psycho-social benefits as well. In order to achieve a successful rehabilitation outcome it is imperative for the health care team to be well informed regarding sports and recreational options available for lower extremity amputees. Along with being knowledgeable in these areas, the health care professional also must possess the ability to assist the amputee in setting realistic goals. The purpose of this literature review is to demonstrate to both the health care professional and the lower extremity amputee along with society, that lower extremity amputees can lead an active lifestyle comparable to that of the non-disabled population. This paper will also act as a resource guide and reference regarding the rehabilitation management of this particular active group of lower extremity amputees. Topics that will be explored in this review include psychological and physical benefits, biomechanics, prosthetic advances, sport adaptations and a listing of resources for both the health care professional and the amputee