Abstract: A coating composition that is useful for the preparation of an auxiliary layer of an imaging element, such as a photographic element, is comprised of an aqueous medium having dispersed therein film-forming polymeric particles and non-film-forming polymeric particles and is characterized in that the film-forming polymeric particles are acid-stable polyurethane particles. These coating compositions have excellent stability characteristics, provide auxiliary layers with improved chemical and physical properties when coated and dried to form a coalesced layer, and provide for reduced emission of volatile organic compounds during the drying process.

Abstract: A porous polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) structure particularly for use as a liquid filter comprises particles of granular-type PTFE fused together to form a porous integral network. The structure is formed by spraying an aqueous suspension of granular PTFE particles and baking at a temperature of 335.degree.-350.degree. C. Typically the specific gravity is 0.8 to 1.54. The crystallinity is less than 95%. The structure may be supported on a perforate substrate such as stainless steel mesh.

Abstract: An interior moulded floor-reaction (FR) ankle-foot (AFO) (10) is described which has a fixed ankle angle and a detachable heel wedge (16) which allows the vertical alignment of the brace to be adjusted. The anterior leg portion (12a) has an elastic calf strap (14) for controlling plantar flexion. The AFO is moulded in a single piece of plastic with the leg portion (12a) being integral with the foot portion (12b) and the elastic strap (14 ) passes around the back of the calf. The FR AFO fits inside the patient's shoe.

Abstract: A functional electrical stimulation orthosis for restoring locomotion in paraplegics is described. The orthosis has knee locks for each leg to enforce knee extension in a standing position, and a sensor located on each leg for sensing knee flexion. A plurality of electrodes are disposed on each leg to stimulate extension and flexion movements under the control of the patient. The orthosis can be used with crutches and stimulation of flexion and extension movement can be effected manually or automatically using an open-loop or closed-loop system. Various embodiments and modifications of the invention are disclosed. The orthosis can also be used in combination with other orthosis such as a foot ankle orthosis to provide a hybrid orthosis.