Articles tagged with Polymers
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
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Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
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Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
Adding polymers to a solution containing hollow silica nanocubes can adjust their attractions, leading to stable mixtures. By varying polymer concentrations, researchers can manipulate the behavior of colloidal mixtures and explore new technologies in light sensing and manipulation.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh are using a new scalable manufacturing method to create customizable types of nanocarbons directly on flexible materials. This process enables patterning functional nanocarbons needed for emerging flexible-device applications in healthcare, energy, and consumer electronics.
Researchers developed an artificial molecular pump to install rings onto polymer strings, enabling precise control over ring threading and opening up new possibilities for scratch-resistant coatings and actuators. Polyrotaxanes show promise in soft materials and can be fine-tuned by accurately defining the polymer's structure.
Researchers have successfully synthesized a 2D honeycomb kagome polymer, revealing predicted topological properties and opening up new possibilities for electronic devices. The material's unique structure combines the properties of graphene and superconductors.
The TWILIGHT trial found that bioabsorbable polymer DES (BP-EES) performed similarly to durable polymer DES (DP-DES) in high-risk patients undergoing PCI. The study also showed a lower frequency of prior MI in BP-EES patients compared to DP-DES patients.
Researchers at Kyoto University have created a coordination polymer glass membrane that functions similarly to liquid-based counterparts but offers improved mechanical and thermal stability. The new membrane enables efficient proton movement under dry conditions, leading to higher voltage production in hydrogen fuel cells.
Researchers at North Carolina State University have discovered a polymer composite material with bismuth trioxide particles that can effectively shield against ionizing radiation while being lightweight and non-toxic.
Researchers at ICFO have developed a new photothermal sensitizer using tungsten oxide nanoparticles, enabling the production of high-color-purity 3D objects and overcoming previous limitations. The new method allows for efficient and cost-effective fabrication of complex geometries with precise color control.
Researchers at Texas A&M University have created mesh-like mats with prolonged antioxidant activity that can be used in bandages or food storage containers. The mats are made from an intertwined network of ultra-fine strands of a polymer and tannic acid, which enhances antioxidant functionality.
A new method of making gecko-inspired adhesive materials has been developed, enabling mass production and the spread of versatile gripping strips. The materials can be used to make extremely versatile grippers that pick up different objects on the same assembly line.
Researchers at University of Nottingham have developed biomaterials that can control the body's immune response, potentially reducing implant rejection rates. The new materials use surface shape and chemical composition to influence macrophage attachment and behavior.
Researchers at UMass Amherst have developed a new tool for controlling reactions in microrobots and microreactors, leveraging capillary forces to create self-assembling hanging droplets of aqueous polymer solutions. This technique enables selective transport of chemicals and can be used as encapsulated reaction vessels.
Researchers at Linköping University have discovered a quantum phenomenon that influences the formation of free charges in organic solar cells. Vibronic coherence contributes to photocurrent generation and can be used to increase efficiency.
Researchers at Penn State developed a laboratory method to create membraneless compartments within a liquid, allowing them to segregate and concentrate components for important cellular functions. The findings could provide insight into how cells use these compartments to perform different tasks in different locations, with potential a...
Scientists have successfully developed a rotary micromotor with a diameter of 5 millimeters that can rotate using laser power. The motor utilizes liquid crystal elastomers, which exhibit fast and reversible shape changes under visible light illumination.
A new Australian technology developed by Flinders University and Clean Earth Technologies can absorb pollutants, including mercury and oil spills. The solution uses a polymer made from sulfur and plant oil to capture toxic substances in water, reducing environmental harm.
Researchers created a potential new adhesive using poly(vinyl alcohol) to improve the adhesion of wearable sensors. The modified compound, 4C3-PVA, was found to be hydrophobic but have less tensile strength compared to other versions.
The study suggests a fast and reliable method to determine the degradation behavior of complex biomacromolecules using Langmuir technique. The research paves the way for designing innovative, multifunctional polymers for regenerative medicine with improved performance in medical implants.
A new device uses specialized polymer electrodes to reduce arsenic in water by over 90% while using less energy than traditional methods. The process is powered by electrochemical reactions, making it suitable for field deployment in areas with limited electricity.
Researchers from Université libre de Bruxelles found that large molecules move faster near rougher surfaces at the nanometric scale, defying simulations. The team created a rough surface of aluminum and applied weak electric fields to measure molecular motion.
University of Seville researchers successfully printed a 3D image using stabilised gold nanoparticles and biodegradable polymer systems. This breakthrough has significant implications for the pharmaceutical industry, particularly in the development of personalized biosensors.
Researchers created a biocompatible material by engineering E. coli to overproduce an enzyme that makes extremely long polymer brushes. These bristles are virtually impenetrable to bacteria, hindering the spread of biofilms and potentially improving medical applications.
The new method enables the creation of tall-and-narrow nanostructures with controllable dimensions, including transparent nanoelectrodes with high optical transmission and tunable conductivity. Researchers achieved this by adding 'table salt' to the polymer solution, improving electrostatic attraction between nanofibers.
Scientists at North Carolina State University have designed a new type of material, called active kirigami, which can autonomously change shape in response to heat. This innovation enables the creation of programmable robots with increased freedom of actuation.
Scientists developed flexible and efficient transparent solar cells with colour-neutrality using silicon microwires embedded in a polymer matrix. The devices demonstrate transparency of up to 55% and excellent flexibility, making them promising for future transparent solar cells.
Researchers at SMART and NTU have designed a polymer that can kill bacteria resistant to commonly used antibiotics, including MRSA. The breakthrough could lead to the development of medicine to which bacteria are significantly less resistant, saving hundreds of thousands of lives.
Researchers have developed unique polymer fibers with high tensile strength and toughness, making them suitable for industrial applications such as textiles, medical technology, and aerospace engineering.
Researchers found that charged polymers increase viscosity by altering water-water interactions, which is influenced by a nuclear quantum effect. This discovery has fundamental implications for developing new technologies in health, biosciences, materials science, and environmental science.
Researchers from University of Groningen create a molecular motor-based catalyst that switches the preference of anion-binding, enabling selective production of one enantiomer. The discovery has potential applications in pharmaceuticals and polymer production.
Researchers have created a new polymer gel with an ordered structure, allowing for potential uses in chemical filters, sensors, and drug release. This breakthrough could lead to advancements in various fields by providing a more consistent material.
Scientists at Johns Hopkins Medicine developed a nanosize container made of biodegradable polymer to deliver protein-based medicines and gene therapies, including CRISPR, into specifically selected target cells. The invention could offer a way to efficiently ferry larger medical compounds into cells with fewer side effects.
Researchers at Aalto University trained a liquid crystal polymer to move and stick to objects of a given color using light-based conditioning. This breakthrough demonstrates the potential for materials to 'learn' and adapt to their environment.
Researchers have developed a method to precisely control the size and shape of nanoparticles, which could lead to more effective drug delivery systems. By modifying a base nanoparticle with a second polymer, scientists can create nanoparticles of specific dimensions.
Researchers at MIT have developed a way to encapsulate iron and vitamin A in a biocompatible polymer, which can be easily added to staple foods. The technology has the potential to help billions of people suffering from micronutrient deficiencies, particularly children who are more susceptible to diseases like measles.
Skoltech researchers created potassium-based batteries with record-high energy density and impressive stability, offering an alternative to lithium-ion batteries. The batteries charge in under 10 seconds and retain their capacity after thousands of cycles.
Researchers develop a versatile yet affordable battery membrane technology using AquaPIMs, enabling long-lasting and low-cost grid batteries. The new membrane reduces costs by eliminating expensive fluorinated polymer membranes, making flow batteries more viable for widespread adoption.
Researchers have developed a high-performance cathode made of an organic polymer for sodium-ion batteries, achieving excellent electrochemical performances. The new material outperforms current polymeric and inorganic cathodes in capacity delivery and retention.
A team of researchers from University College London has developed a new method for fabricating polymeric nanofibers and microfibers without the use of electric fields. The technique, called pressure gyration, produces thinner and more consistent fibers than traditional centrifugal spinning methods.
Researchers at NC State University have developed soft polymer microparticles with hierarchical branching on the micro- and nanoscale, exhibiting strong adhesion and structure-building properties. These materials, inspired by gecko feet, have potential applications in various fields such as gels, pastes, foods, nonwovens, and coatings.
Researchers develop mathematical model to describe how polymers contract into spiral structures, known as loxodromes, with complex patterning. The discovery could lead to the creation of manmade patterns that are difficult to produce using traditional methods.
Researchers at Brown University have developed a new production method for the high-performance polymer Zylon using nanoparticle catalysts, which can produce degradation-resistant materials. The new approach reduces energy consumption and eliminates a corrosive acid that causes degradation.
The research focuses on improving oil recovery efficiency through innovative integrated methods and polymer solutions. Laboratory experiments demonstrate the significant influence of mineral skeleton properties on polymer viscosity, highlighting the importance of optimal concentration selection.
Researchers have developed all-polymer photodetectors with single carrier transport property, exhibiting high external quantum efficiency and low dark current density. The photomultiplication type PPDs demonstrate improved performance and versatility for applications in biological detection and image sensing.
Researchers developed artificial 'chameleon skin' that changes color when exposed to heat or light using nanoparticles coated in a polymer shell. The material's color-changing abilities rely on light-powered nano-mechanisms, similar to nature's chromatophores, allowing for dynamic displays and active camouflage.
Scientists at North Carolina State University have created a method to remotely control, lock into place, and later transform the shape of soft robots using light and magnetic fields. The technology is promising for medical and aerospace industries.
Researchers developed an elastic polymer with broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties, effectively killing viruses and drug-resistant bacteria. The polymer's unique molecular architecture attracts water to kill microbes within five minutes, making it a potential solution for hospital-acquired infections.
Researchers used a novel super-resolution microscopy technique to directly observe depletion layers in polymer solutions flowing through microchannels. The study found that changes to the depletion layer dimension occurred at unexpectedly low flow rates, and hydrodynamic lift forces played a key role in this phenomenon.
Researchers from Kanazawa University have developed a three-state switchable chiral stationary phase that can be controlled using metal ions, enabling efficient separation of enantiomers. The phase's stability and separation performance were demonstrated over multiple cycles, opening new doors for drug discovery and other research areas.
Researchers at the University of Warwick have developed a new polymeric cryoprotectant that protects cells during freezing, leading to more cells being recovered and less solvent-based antifreeze being required. The material was shown to be very potent in protecting cell monolayers, which is crucial for biomedical research.
A team of researchers from ICFO demonstrates an adjustable technique to manipulate light without mechanical movement, enabling the creation of dynamically tuneable lenses with high control and low power consumption. The Smartlens technology has potential applications in high-end systems and simple end-user-oriented imaging devices.
Researchers have developed a new method to stabilize collapsing metal-organic frameworks by adding small amounts of polymer, resulting in significant increases in surface area. This breakthrough enables the creation of mesoporous MOFs that were previously inaccessible due to pore collapse.
Researchers created a 'polyCOF' material by adding polyethylene glycol to an existing COF structure, enabling the formation of flexible membranes. The resulting material allows for the creation of a paper doll with an artificial muscle that can perform sit-ups by expanding and contracting in response to ethanol vapors.
A team of researchers has identified a critical variable that improves the efficiency of polymer-based heat energy harvesting. By exploring this new factor, they hope to design more efficient polymers for thermo-electric devices.
Researchers have developed a new laboratory technique to measure polymer flow at the molecular level, providing fundamental understanding of soft material behavior during rapid deformation. This approach has led to significant insights into designing biomedical, industrial and environmental applications.
Researchers at Kanazawa University found that electron beam irradiation improves the mechanical properties of short-carbon-fiber reinforced thermoplastics. The treatment strengthens and lengthens carbon fibers, reducing the negative effects of crosslinking and increasing recyclability.
A new polymer has been discovered that can effectively remove PFAS from water, reducing the risk of contamination in drinking water sources. The low-cost and environmentally friendly method uses waste cooking oil and powdered activated carbon to purify thousands of liters of water.
A new alliance of six German research institutions is investigating the nanostructure and microstructure of polymer gels to understand their capabilities. The group aims to create polymer networks with controllable structures to control the selective transport of active substances.
A Texas A&M research team has developed a new class of hydrogel bioinks loaded with therapeutic proteins, which can be used for precise deposition of protein therapeutics in 3D. The bioink formulation has unique shear-thinning properties that allow it to stay in place after injection, making it suitable for 3D bioprinting applications.
Researchers at Texas A⚬M University discovered a new type of fracture in silicone elastomer that allows for greater stretchability and resistance to tears. This breakthrough could lead to the development of more tear- and fracture-resistant materials for applications in healthcare, energy and military industries.
Researchers at McMaster University have developed a novel form of computing using light patterns and materials that react intuitively to light. This new approach enables simple calculations such as addition and subtraction without the need for power sources.