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Science News for August 29, 2001


Plastic is forever -- or not

Virginia Tech researchers have made a breakthrough in creating polymers that can be reversed using heat, opening up new possibilities for thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) and novel adhesives. The team synthesized nano-phase separated polystyrene and polyisoprene based materials containing reversible linkages.

Chemists use statistics to improve creativity

Chemists are using statistical design of experiments and parallel reactors to improve the creation of polymers. This approach enables the efficient production of novel elastomers by determining the optimal reaction conditions. By doing so, researchers can generate predictive models and discover new materials.

New dinosaur expert publishes in Nature

Dr. Peter Makovicky's discovery sheds new light on the feeding behavior of ornithomimid dinosaurs, revealing a possible adaptation to filter-feed tiny invertebrates and particles from water and sediment. The find is significant as it provides evidence for the unique beak structure found in two well-preserved specimens.

SourceField Museum·JournalNature·DateAug 29, 2001

T cell responses in aplastic anemia

Research in aplastic anemia reveals crucial insights into immune system dysfunction and potential therapeutic targets. Patients with aplastic anemia display impaired T cell responses, indicating a critical link between immunodeficiency and disease progression.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 29, 2001