Rick D. Wilkerson, DO is the recipient of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) 2018 Humanitarian Award for his humanitarian efforts abroad. He has made significant contributions to orthopaedic care in countries such as Haiti, Iraq, Vietnam, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Libya, and Uganda.
SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateMar 8, 2018
The study projects a significant increase in total joint replacement procedures, with primary THR expected to grow 171% by 2030 and 330% by 2060. Revision TJR procedures are also expected to rise, particularly for TKR, which has been slowing its growth rate since 2008.
SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateMar 6, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
Research finds that patients with undiagnosed neurocognitive deficits have poorer short-term outcomes after hip and knee replacements. Neurocognitive impairment was prevalent in older patients and those with depression, leading to increased hospital resources and slower physical therapy progress.
SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalThe Journal of Arthroplasty·DateMar 6, 2018
A study found that patients undergoing elective total hip arthroplasty (THA) have a slightly improved survival rate compared to the general population. After ten years, higher survival rates were observed among THA patients, particularly those with primary osteoarthritis.
SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalClinical Orthopaedics and Related Research·DateFeb 28, 2018
A new study by Johns Hopkins researchers found that a common knee operation in elderly patients provides little benefit and may be considered low-value care. The procedure, called arthroscopic partial meniscectomy (APM), accounted for an estimated two-thirds of all orthopaedic knee arthroscopy procedures in older patients.
SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateFeb 28, 2018
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine discovered that a scorpion venom component, iberiotoxin, can specifically block the potassium channel in fibroblast-like synoviocytes, reducing rheumatoid arthritis severity. Treatment with iberiotoxin reversed joint damage and inflammation in rat models without inducing side effects.
SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalJournal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics·DateFeb 26, 2018
Researchers identified distinct patterns in gene expression in synovial tissue samples, revealing differences in pain mechanisms among rheumatoid arthritis patients. These findings may help clinicians develop targeted treatment strategies for patients with minimal inflammation but high disease activity scores.
SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·DateFeb 22, 2018
Researchers have identified a method to prevent posttraumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) by reducing oxidative stress after fractures in an animal model. By inhibiting mitochondrial metabolism or boosting antioxidants, they demonstrated that PTOA can be significantly blunted.
SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateFeb 7, 2018
Researchers use a compound called amobarbital to protect joints from cartilage loss after injury, showing promise in preventing post-traumatic osteoarthritis. The study's findings suggest that targeting mitochondria after joint fractures could substantially improve quality of life for PTOA patients.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateFeb 7, 2018
Researchers at University of Utah Health identified a mechanism that activates T cells, a key component of the immune system, in patients with persistent Lyme arthritis. This activation mechanism triggers inflammation and arthritis by producing inflammatory molecules that accumulate around the joints.
SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateFeb 5, 2018
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.
A study published in HortTechnology has found that bad posture can increase loads by 50% on the lower back and double on the shoulders, leaving people susceptible to chronic injuries. The researchers used 3D optical tracking equipment to analyze the movement of gardeners undertaking routine tasks.
SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateJan 22, 2018
Researchers are exploring gene delivery strategies for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, enabling sustained drug production at the site of disease. Clinical trials are underway in the U.S., with the first arthritis gene therapy recently approved in Korea.
SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·DateJan 22, 2018
Researchers developed a method using next-generation genomic sequencing to isolate infecting organisms after joint replacement surgery. The technique identified pathogens in over 80% of cases that previously went undetected, revolutionizing treatment for patients with joint-replacement infections.
SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateJan 18, 2018
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.
A study at Hospital for Special Surgery found that patients who received one-on-one physical therapy education and access to a web-based microsite prior to joint replacement surgery achieved physical therapy goals more quickly. This personalized approach improved their outcomes, including reduced hospital stay and increased confidence.
SourceHospital for Special Surgery·JournalClinical Orthopaedics and Related Research·DateJan 17, 2018
A study from Coventry University and the Royal Horticultural Society found that bad digging techniques can double the load on joints, increasing risk of osteoarthritis. Good gardening practice involves regular, repetitive motion to minimize back bends and large knee bends.
SourceCoventry University·JournalHortTechnology·DateJan 8, 2018
A large cohort study found that 25% of chikungunya-infected individuals experienced chronic joint pain two years after initial infection. The researchers also identified several predictors of persistent joint pain, including being a college graduate and having severe initial symptoms.
SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·DateDec 20, 2017
A team of researchers from King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals proposed a control design for the I-PENTAR wheeled inverted pendulum assistant robot to tackle stability issues and uncertainty. The algorithm improved the robot's ability to maintain balance even in uncertain environments.
SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateDec 20, 2017
A recent study published in The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery found that outpatient total knee replacement surgery is associated with a higher risk of certain complications, including infections, repeat surgery, and blood clots. Patients undergoing outpatient TKA were more likely to experience joint-related complications and medical ...
SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateDec 13, 2017
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.
A large observational study found no link between rainfall and visiting the doctor with joint pain, dispelling a commonly held belief. Despite this, researchers suggest larger data on disease severity may be needed to confirm or deny the relationship.
Researchers analyzed millions of doctor visits to find no correlation between rainfall and painful joints or sore backs. Despite the lack of evidence, many people still believe that certain symptoms are forecasted by weather conditions.
SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalThe BMJ·DateDec 13, 2017
Maintaining at least low levels of physical activity throughout middle age was associated with lower prevalence and incidence of joint symptoms later in life. The potential protective effect of physical activity on joint symptoms was stronger in obese women than in under or normal weight women.
SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateDec 6, 2017
Researchers have discovered a new marker, Ratiometric thrombin-Activatable Cell Penetrating Peptide, to identify joints with established arthritis and predict subsequent swelling. This imaging tool may help clinicians monitor arthritis development and progression, enabling early intervention.
SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·DateNov 22, 2017
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.
Researchers found that vitamin D is effective in preventing the onset of inflammation but less effective once inflammatory disease is established. The study suggests that patients with rheumatoid arthritis may require higher doses of vitamin D or a new treatment to bypass vitamin D insensitivity in immune cells.
SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalJournal of Autoimmunity·DateNov 20, 2017
Western University researchers have found a high prevalence of bone lesions in the feet of 19th-Century Dutch farmers who wore wooden shoes, also known as klompen. The study suggests that these shoes were partly to blame for the injuries and trauma suffered by the farmers.
SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalInternational Journal of Paleopathology·DateNov 16, 2017
A new study lists beneficial foods for managing rheumatoid arthritis symptoms and progression, including blueberries, ginger, and green tea. Patients can support disease management through food and diet without harmful side effects.
SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Nutrition·DateNov 8, 2017
Bone marrow edema was most frequent in posterior lower ilium and anterior upper sacrum in young athletes. A better understanding of this condition may improve evaluation of magnetic resonance imaging in individuals with early axial spondyloarthritis.
Researchers at NC State University found that amputees using powered knee prostheses faced difficulties when carrying loads, but load-adaptive settings reduced exertion and improved performance. The study highlights the need for more real-world testing in prosthetics research to expand device utility.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 3, 2017
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.
A study of 20 patients under 60 found substantial long-term improvement after 'reverse' shoulder replacement for massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears. Despite a high complication rate, most patients reported excellent or good satisfaction levels with improved shoulder function and pain management.
SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateOct 26, 2017
A five-year study found that genetic testing can help tailor the warfarin dosage to individual patients undergoing joint replacement surgery, resulting in significant reductions in adverse side effects. The study showed a 75% decrease in major bleeding and a 15% decrease in blood clots.
SourceIntermountain Medical Center·JournalJAMA·DateOct 23, 2017
Scientists developed a hydrogel that detects nitric oxide and absorbs excess fluids, delivering drugs to treat rheumatoid arthritis. The gel uses acrylamide as a base material and NOCCL crosslinker to trap drug molecules.
SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateOct 11, 2017
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.
Researchers found that treating donor grafts with bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMC) before surgery improves bone integration and speeds recovery in biologic joint restoration surgeries. BMC pretreatment resulted in 43% bone integration at six weeks, compared to 25% of untreated grafts.
Researchers found that chronic migraine patients are three times as likely to suffer from severe temporomandibular disorder (TMD), which causes difficulty chewing and joint tension. The study suggests that TMD may increase the frequency and severity of migraine attacks, but it does not directly cause the condition.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalJournal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics·DateSep 22, 2017
A study confirms that blood metal ion levels can predict patients with low risk of ARMD (Adverse Reactions to Metal Debris) after metal-on-metal hip replacement. Using implant-specific cutoff points identifies all but 2.8% of ARMD cases, outperforming fixed regulatory authority thresholds.
SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateSep 21, 2017
Researchers found a significant association between foot pain and knee or hip pain, suggesting a need for comprehensive orthopedic evaluation. The study highlights the importance of considering the kinetic chain in pain diagnosis and treatment.
SourceHospital for Special Surgery·JournalJournal of the American Podiatric Medical Association·DateSep 19, 2017
GoPro HERO13 Black
GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.
Researchers have identified a polysaccharide alginate from brown algae as a potential treatment for arthritis, slowing down cartilage degeneration and suppressing inflammatory reactions. Further research is needed to test the substance on animals and eventually humans.
SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalBiomaterials Science·DateAug 23, 2017
Collagen in cartilage exhibits reversible changes in crystallinity in response to physical forces, affecting its resilience to compression. The findings may help explain why cartilage breaks down with aging or osteoarthritis, a leading cause of joint pain and immobility.
SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalACS Nano·DateAug 17, 2017
A team of researchers at FAU has identified a key mechanism involved in the resolution of inflammations in rheumatoid arthritis patients. Innate lymphoid cells can induce a 'hibernation' state, which persists in those with rheumatism but is reversed when these cells are 'woken up', stopping inflammation and joint damage.
SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalNature Medicine·DateAug 10, 2017
New research finds that temperature rises and increasing physical activity levels, not weather conditions, drive online searches for knee and hip pain. Temperatures peaked at 73 and 83 degrees Fahrenheit respectively.
SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 9, 2017
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.
A study published in Scientific Reports shows that high-frequency alternating magnetic fields can be used to destroy bacteria encased in a slimy 'biofilm' growing on artificial joints. The treatment increased the effectiveness of antibiotic treatment, reducing the need for multiple surgeries and weeks of IV antibiotics.
SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 8, 2017
A computational design tool developed by Disney Research enables the creation of compliant mechanisms through flexibility, offering potential advantages in industry. The tool optimizes device performance while ensuring robustness and reducing strains.
Researchers discovered a communication system between the knee joint and developing bones in mice, which controls bone growth during early development and after injury. The study suggests that bone growth is controlled not only from within the bone itself but also by neighboring cells situated in nearby joints.
A new study from UMass Medical School found that obese patients who underwent knee or hip replacement surgery reported similar pain relief and improved function as normal-weight patients. The study suggests that obesity is not a barrier to joint replacement surgery, which can provide long-term relief from joint pain.
SourceUMass Chan Medical School·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateJul 19, 2017
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.
Researchers developed an antibiotic-releasing polymer that successfully eliminated two types of prosthetic infection in animal models. This material could lead to single-procedure treatments, reducing patient inconvenience and complication risk.
SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateJul 18, 2017
A new report from the University of Kent shows how anti-gravity treadmills help knee surgery patients return to running, reducing fears and increasing self-belief. The devices use adjustable air pressure to reduce joint load and facilitate a safe transition back to sports.
SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalPhysical Therapy in Sport·DateJul 6, 2017
Research on ostriches reveals a counter-intuitive effect of their double-kneecap, decreasing mechanical advantage in knee extensor muscles. The true purpose of this unique structure is still unknown, with potential roles including tendon protection and joint function improvement.
Researchers identified two proteins derived from common gut bacteria that trigger immune responses in RA patients, supporting a link between intestinal and synovial autoimmunity. The discovery provides a potential pathway for improving diagnosis and treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.
SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 26, 2017
Meta Quest 3 512GB
Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.
A recent study found that individuals with rheumatoid arthritis who consumed fish at least 2 times a week had lower disease activity compared to those who ate fish less than once a month. The study, which assessed 176 patients, suggests that fish consumption may lower inflammation related to rheumatoid arthritis.
SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateJun 21, 2017
A new guideline aims to reduce joint infection risks from total hip and knee replacements by managing anti-rheumatic medications during perioperative process. The guideline provides recommendations for withholding certain medications, such as biologics and immunosuppressants, to minimize the risk of infection.
SourceAmerican College of Rheumatology·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateJun 20, 2017
Two new drug classes, tofacitinib and guselkumab, have shown significant improvements in treating psoriatic arthritis. Tofacitinib demonstrated superiority over placebo in ACR20 response rates and HAQ-DI score at 3 months, while guselkumab improved joint symptoms, physical function, and quality of life in patients with active PsA.
SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateJun 16, 2017
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.
A new imaging technique called Fluorescence Optical Imaging (FOI) is more effective than ultrasound at detecting inflammation in the absence of symptoms and signs in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. FOI provides greater information on microcirculation and can be performed by non-medically qualified personnel.
SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·DateJun 14, 2017
A recent study suggests that targeted removal of senescent cells can delay the onset of age-related pathologies, such as osteoarthritis. The research team found that selectively destroying these old cells can reduce pain, promote new cartilage growth, and create a pro-regenerative environment.
SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalNature Medicine·DateJun 9, 2017
A study found that obese patients undergoing shoulder joint replacement surgery are at increased risk of complications, including the need for revision surgery and postoperative infections. The risk of revision surgery increases steadily with increasing body mass index (BMI) in obese patients.
SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateJun 8, 2017
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.
Researchers developed a tethered soft exosuit that reduces the metabolic cost of running on a treadmill by 5.4% compared to not wearing the exosuit. The study tested two different assistance profiles, one based on human biology and another based on simulation, with the latter outperforming the former in reducing metabolic cost.
SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalScience Robotics·DateMay 31, 2017
A new biologic drug, ixekizumab, has shown significant symptom reduction in patients with refractory psoriatic arthritis, including joint tenderness and swelling. The study's results suggest that the drug may offer a more effective treatment option for patients who have not responded to standard pharmaceutical treatments.
Researchers find pharmaceutical-grade chondroitin sulfate comparable to celecoxib in reducing pain and improving joint function; long-term treatment recommended for older adults with knee osteoarthritis. Effective and safe alternatives are needed due to risks associated with NSAIDs and paracetamol.
SourceBMJ Group·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateMay 23, 2017
Researchers created a pig model to study human knee growth and changes in ligament orientation during maturity. The model enables researchers to better understand joint injuries in children and teens, potentially informing new surgical approaches and clinical practice.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Orthopaedic Research®·DateMay 15, 2017
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.
Pregnant women are vulnerable to orthopaedic traumas due to car crashes or domestic violence, with bodily changes affecting treatment processes. A team of specialists is essential for optimal patient outcomes, prioritizing the mother's health and minimizing fetal harm.
SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateMay 1, 2017
Scientists rewired mouse stem cells using CRISPR to produce biologic anti-inflammatory drugs that protect joints and tissues from chronic inflammation. The engineered cells can sense TNF-alpha and release a protective drug to combat inflammation.
SourceWashU Medicine·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateApr 27, 2017
Researchers report that selectively removing old or 'senescent' cells from joints could prevent and even reverse the progression of osteoarthritis. The treatment promotes an environment for new cartilage to grow and repair joints, reducing pain and degradation in joint health.
SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·DateApr 26, 2017
New studies examine rheumatoid arthritis patients' mortality, disease activity, and physical function over 20 years. Early treatment has been shown to have a significant impact on long-term outcomes, with patients experiencing relatively good results.
SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·DateApr 20, 2017
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.