Articles tagged with Gels
A new study found that genital inflammation significantly reduces the effectiveness of tenofovir gel in preventing HIV infection in women. The study showed that tenofovir gel provided only 57% protection against HIV acquisition in women with genital inflammation, even if they used the gel consistently.
Scientists at Yokohama National University developed a photoresponsive molecular switch that enables the control of sol-gel transitions in thermoresponsive polymers. The azobenzene-containing ionic liquid triggers reversible physical property changes upon light irradiation, showing tunable sol and gel states.
Researchers at Rutgers University have created a 4D-printed shape-shifting smart gel that can morph over time and temperatures change. The gel can provide structural rigidity in organs like the lungs and create new applications in soft robotics, biomedical devices, and scaffolds for cell growth.
The new instrument uses OCT-based technology with an electrically tunable lens to produce higher quality images of the entire eye. This enables whole-eye imaging, improving patient experience and potentially reducing instrument costs.
Researchers at Shinshu University have designed a wearable robot that utilizes plasticized polyvinyl chloride (PVC) gel to provide assistance for individuals with weakened muscles and mobility issues. The system consists of mesh electrodes and applied voltage, enabling natural movement while decreasing muscular activity.
Researchers at MIT have developed a process to produce ultrafine fibers with exceptional strength and toughness, exceeding existing materials in specific modulus and specific strength. The new gel-electrospun polyethylene fibers have similar degrees of strength but are much tougher and have lower density.
A Russian scientist discovered how a polymer sample with magnetizable particles responds to external magnetic fields, revealing potential applications in various industries. The study found that the arrangement of particles affects the material's elastic properties, leading to significant changes under moderate magnetic fields.
Scientists found that these gel-based containers can retain liquid nitrogen temperatures below -150°C for up to 10 hours, preserving embryo viability. The reusable and DIY-friendly materials also show promise for efficient transportation of sperm and embryos.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania discovered that nutrients regulate the brain's hunger alarm system. By associating unfamiliar foods with low calorie content, mice can temporarily turn off the neurons responsible for hunger, providing a potential therapeutic strategy for reducing overeating and obesity.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have developed an injectable gel that slowly releases microRNAs to stimulate heart muscle regeneration. The gel's unique properties allow it to target specific signaling pathways related to cell proliferation, resulting in improved recovery rates and potentially life-prolonging effects.
Researchers at Kobe University created a double network within ionic liquid, combining inorganic silica particles with organic polymers, resulting in a gel that can withstand over 25 MPa of compressive strength. The gel's stability makes it suitable for applications in CO2 separation membranes and rechargeable batteries.
A novel technique has enabled researchers to unravel complex physical processes during fracture in microscopic detail and in real time.
Scientists at Emory University School of Medicine have developed a method for generating endothelial cells from human induced pluripotent stem cells, which can survive for over 10 months when surrounded by a supportive gel. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for peripheral artery disease.
A team of researchers has developed an injectable antimicrobial gel that could improve root canal treatment outcomes by providing sustained antimicrobial properties. The gel, which has been shown to have extended residual antibacterial properties, is biocompatible and has minimal toxic effects on stem cells.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have developed a new method to induce shape-changing in water-based gels using DNA molecules. By employing specific DNA sequences called 'hairpins,' they can cause a hydrogel sample to swell up to 100 times its original volume, and then halt the reaction with another DNA sequence.
Researchers at Hokkaido University developed a nanosheet made of CYTOP to prevent drying and deformation of biological samples. The nanosheet retains water content and provides sufficient surface adhesion for fixing samples, resulting in high-resolution images.
Researchers at DGIST have identified a thermally responsive elastin-like polypeptide that controls acute intracerebral hemorrhage by forming protein nanostructures in damaged cerebral blood vessels. The polypeptide also accelerates vascular restoration and stimulates brain tissue regeneration.
Researchers at University of Bristol observed the formation of a crystal gel and discovered new mechanisms for creating sponge-like nanoporous crystals. The process resembles ice crystal growth in clouds and can lead to materials for catalytic, optical, sensing, and filtration applications.
A new method for drying jellyfish has been developed to make them crunchy and paper-thin, reducing processing time from 30-40 days to just a few days. This innovation also increases the efficiency of Asian processing plants.
Scientists from India develop a simple strategy to recover spilt oil by tightly binding it to a porous matrix, allowing for easy scooping and recycling. The cellulose-based system effectively absorbs oil without sucking in water, making it an environmentally friendly solution.
A new technique combining machine learning and microfabrication enables researchers to study stem cell differentiation in a controlled environment. By using an agarose gel confinement system, scientists can maintain long-lasting spatial confinement for up to 15 days.
A study successfully reversed Vasalgel's contraceptive effect in rabbits after an injection of sodium bicarbonate dissolved the gel. Sperm concentration and motility returned to baseline levels, indicating a quick return of fertility.
A new flexible sensor developed at the University of British Columbia holds potential for foldable touch screens and wearable devices. The sensor detects different types of touch, including swiping and tapping, even when stretched or bent.
Research published in BioDiscovery found that topical curcumin gel significantly reduces burn and scald severity, lessens pain, and improves healing with minimal scarring. Dr. Madalene Heng's study suggests curcumin's anti-inflammatory activity is key to its effectiveness.
A new hydrogel has been developed that can be injected into a rabbit's eye as a liquid and gel within minutes to replace the clear gel-like substance. The hydrogel exhibits no significant swelling pressures or side effects, suggesting it is safe for potential use in humans.
Researchers developed a method to transform silk protein into complex materials that can be easily programmed at the nano-, micro-, and macro-scales. The resulting materials are ultralight, robust, and feature a web-like structure with aerated pores.
Studies published in JAMA and JAMA Internal Medicine found that testosterone treatment was associated with improved bone density and anemia in men with low testosterone. However, the studies also found no significant association between testosterone treatment and improved cognitive function or reduced risk of cardiovascular problems.
Scientists have developed artificial pollinators using tiny drones coated with a sticky gel, which can pick up pollen from one flower and deposit it onto another. The innovation uses horse hairs to mimic the fuzzy exterior of a bee, allowing the drones to effectively collect and transfer pollen.
Lead acetate, combined with mastic resin and linseed oil, enabled artists to create quick-drying paint layers for the first time. This innovation allowed for faster production times, facilitating the development of modern styles in the 19th century.
Researchers developed a novel approach to strengthen polymer gels by modifying the length of polymer threads per molecular beads, increasing fracture resistance and strain strength. The technique enables fabrication of polymer gels with desired mechanical properties.
Research led by Norwegian University of Science and Technology scientist Jon Otto Fossum created micrometer-thick gel structures in clay-based nanofluids that exhibit mechanical strength to prevent oil droplets from merging. These structures could improve oil recovery from reservoirs and potentially enhance food product shelf life.
Research at RIT aims to understand vitreous humor properties that result in vision impairment. The study may unlock new treatments for vision disorders and improve drug delivery and eye surgery.
EPFL scientists have developed a patent-pending hydrogel that can grow organoids in a standardized and controlled way, overcoming current limitations. The breakthrough provides a fully controllable and tunable environment for growing miniature organs, shedding light on the influence of physical factors on stem cell behavior.
A single dose of dextrose gel can lower the risk of developing neonatal hypoglycaemia in newborns, according to a randomized study. The study found that babies who received one dose of 200 mg/kg dextrose had the lowest risk of hypoglycemia compared to placebo.
A new type of gel has been developed that periodically swells and shrinks to model the waves of muscular contraction and relaxation involved in crawling. The gel responds to light, producing two types of crawling motion, similar to those used by land snails, earthworms, and limpets.
Participants were highly adherent to using the gel before and after sex (93%) as they were to taking daily oral Truvada (94%). The study found that most participants used the gel 80% of the time or more, suggesting a potential alternative for HIV prevention.
A recent study found that employees who are a poor cultural fit can remain engaged and productive through job crafting and enhanced leisure activities. Job crafting allows workers to modify their duties to better match personal abilities, while leisure activities can improve job satisfaction and performance.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a new molecular gel recipe that enables accurate detection of lead in paint chips. The test uses heat and chemical reactions to distinguish between safe and hazardous levels of lead, making it easier for homeowners to assess their risk.
Scientists have developed injectable gels that can be injected into the heart to shore up weakened areas and prevent heart failure. The gels, made from hyaluronic acid, provide mechanical support and limit scar tissue formation, preserving the heart's size and blood-pumping ability.
Scientists have created gels that can instruct stem cells to differentiate into specific types, such as bone and cartilage. By monitoring stem cell behavior on these gels, researchers identified key metabolites that guide the differentiation process.
Researchers at Hokkaido University have developed a new kind of hydrogel that bonds spontaneously and strongly to defected bones. The gel overcomes the problem of bonding with other surfaces by adding hydroxyapatite to its surface.
Researchers from FAU Erlangen-Nüherung have shown that directed chains of particles in gel networks give them their solid properties. This discovery is crucial for understanding material properties of gels used in products such as toothpaste and cosmetics, potentially improving food production processes.
Researchers at MIT have developed a new microscopy technique that enables precise visualization of RNA molecules in intact tissues. By expanding the tissue sample before imaging, they can obtain high-resolution images of RNA distribution using ordinary microscopes. This breakthrough could help scientists study gene expression and disea...
Researchers at USC have developed a new method to grow stronger muscles using gelatin instead of traditional methods. The 'muscles-on-a-chip' technology has shown promising results in studying human muscle development and disease, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
Swiss researchers have created a gel containing microparticles that inhibits cellular over-proliferation and reduces the risk of obstruction reoccurrence after vascular bypass surgeries. This innovation enables controlled release of a drug, improving outcomes for patients by reducing failure rates from 50% to potentially near-zero.
Physicists at Lomonosov Moscow State University propose a theoretical model for analyzing the conformational behavior of hydrophobically modified polymer gels in solution. The model explains experimentally observed phenomena and reveals new ways to control gel susceptibility, promising applications in drug delivery systems.
A University of Exeter researcher has led a four-year project to develop starch-based gels using enzymes, aiming to improve industrial applications and consumer well-being. The research could also reduce production costs and CO2 emissions associated with conventional gel manufacturing.
Researchers at University of California, Irvine have invented a nanowire-based battery material that can be recharged hundreds of thousands of times without cracking. The breakthrough work uses a gold nanowire coated in a manganese dioxide shell and encased in an electrolyte made of a gel-like substance.
Temperature gradients within pore channels in rock can separate primitive biopolymers based on their sequences, enabling the formation of self-replicating systems. This process is thought to have played a key role in the origin of life.
A reduced glycerin formulation of tenofovir gel was found safe when used daily and around the time of sex for HIV prevention. Participants were as likely to follow through using the gel with sex as they were taking daily oral PrEP, demonstrating its potential as a rectal microbicide for people at risk of HIV from anal sex.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University have successfully created three-dimensional artificial capillary systems using cotton candy machines, which can keep living cells viable and functional for over a week. This breakthrough technique uses hydrogels as scaffolds to support cells within artificial organs.
A team of researchers has successfully replicated the folding of a human brain in three-dimensional form using a simple mechanical principle. The study suggests that the unique shape of the human brain plays a crucial role in determining its folds, which are essential for maintaining proper brain function.
A new seaweed-based solution has been developed to transport stem cells and treat wounds, offering a low-cost and effective alternative to current methods. The alginate gel protects the stem cells from environmental damage, preserving their viability for up to three days at room temperature.
Researchers at TU Wien have successfully produced polyimide particles in an angular shape for the first time using a novel synthesis procedure. The new material exhibits exceptional stability and resistance to various solvents, making it suitable for applications such as protective coatings and space travel.
EPFL scientists have developed a gel that boosts the ability of normal cells to revert into stem cells by simply squeezing them into shape. This method paves the way for large-scale production of stem cells for medical purposes, offering new ways to treat injuries and diseases such as Parkinson's and diabetes.
Scientists have found that wrapping tiny liquid droplets in ultrathin elastic sheets produces half-moon shapes similar to street foods. The researchers discovered this shape arises from the most efficient way to cover the drop, minimizing exposed liquid surface area.
The Population Council's MZC microbicide gel has demonstrated strong efficacy against HIV, HSV-2, and HPV in a preclinical study, outperforming TFV 1% gel in some cases. The gel contains a potent antiretroviral compound and carrageenan, which provides enhanced anti-HPV properties.
Researchers at UT Austin developed a self-healing gel that repairs and connects electronic circuits without external stimuli. The gel has high conductivity, strong mechanical and electrical self-healing properties, and can be used as a soft joint to join circuit parts.
Researchers developed polyMOCs, hybrid materials combining metallogels and MOCs, with tunable properties. These gels can be used for various functions, including controlled release of molecules and gas storage.
Researchers at USC discover enzyme MMP-20 that can regrow tooth enamel, reducing lesions by up to 70%. The breakthrough could lead to a new treatment option for tooth decay and sensitivity.