Abstract:
Systems, devices and methods for providing temperature control and/or regulation are provided. In some embodiments, the systems and/or methods include at least one endothermic reactant, which can be activated to control a local temperature. In some embodiments, the systems and/or methods include at least one gas producing material, which can allow for the production of gas, which can be trapped for the provision of an insulating volume.
Abstract:
Liposomal detection devices and methods of making and using such devices are disclosed. Such liposomal detection devices may be used to detect microbes by detecting a byproduct of microbial metabolism, or may be used to detect changes in pH and/or changes in temperature. Liposomal detection devices may include a first liposome encapsulating a first destabilizing compound and a second liposome encapsulating a second destabilizing compound. The first liposome may destabilize in response to the detection of the target compound or change to release the first destabilizing compound which may destabilize the second liposome. A matrix, such as a hydrogel matrix, may encase the first liposome and the second liposome.
Abstract:
Ultrasound thin film tags are disclosed. The tags include a pattern of regions, wherein the pattern is configured to create thin film interference when scanned with ultrasound energy. The tags can be placed in various locations within the article including interior surfaces and they can be used to encode a variety of information about the article. Devices and methods for scanning and decoding the tags are also disclosed.
Abstract:
In some examples, a method to monitor an animal may include determining a physiological status of the animal based on a tattoo that includes intelligent ink injected into skin of the animal. The method may also include recording the physiological status of the animal. The method may also include, in response to the physiological status indicating a physiological event or condition, triggering an alert to address the physiological event or condition.
Abstract:
Methods and apparatuses for providing localized cooling of a surface are described. Localized cooling devices may include a thermal element configured to generate a temperature gradient in a cooling interface in contact with the surface. Temperature gradient may operate to facilitate conductive heat transfer from the surface, through the cooling interface, and out into the ambient environment. The thermal elements may include thermoelectric cooling elements (TECs), such as Peltier cooling elements. In some embodiments, the localized cooling devices may be configured to treat swelling associated with periorbital edema by providing convenient, efficient, and continuous cooling of the affected area.
Abstract:
Food packaging and methods of making and using such packaging are disclosed. Food packaging having at least one agent may be disposed within a shape memory polymer which is adapted to release the agent in response to a stimulus. Such packaging may be used, for example, to detect environmental conditions during transport or storage, maintain a temperature of the food to preserve food quality, or provide a pleasant sensory experience to a consumer.
Abstract:
Disclosed herein are compositions and methods for treating or preventing the build-up or entrapment of fecal matter in the colon. The compositions and methods disclose a delayed release laxative that provides for the release of the laxative if colon-specific conditions are achieved, otherwise the laxative passes out of the body. The condition specific release of laxatives prevents harmful side effects from excessive use of non-delayed release laxatives.
Abstract:
Self-cooling materials, such as food containers for transporting perishable food items, and methods for producing and using the materials are disclosed. The materials include a reactant adapted to produce an endothermic reaction upon hydration of the reactant by ambient water vapor.
Abstract:
Packaging materials including at least one copolymer sheet containing a first polymer having a high coefficient of thermal expansion, and a second polymer having a low coefficient of thermal expansion are described. In some configurations, the copolymer sheet includes one or more sections of a bimorph structure having a first layer of the first polymer and a second layer of the second polymer. Methods of making a packaging material by bonding the first layer and the second layer to form a copolymer sheet; and heating the copolymer sheet at discrete sections to destroy the layer definition forming discrete sections having a bimorph structure of the first layer and the second layer are also described, as are kits useful for preparing the packaging material.
Abstract:
Embodiments described herein provide for terahertz tags and methods of making and using them. A tag may include a terahertz reflective material; and a saturated hygroscopic material positioned on the terahertz reflective material. A tag may include a terahertz reflective material; and an anhydrous hygroscopic material positioned on the terahertz reflective material. A humidity sensor may include a terahertz reflective material; and an anhydrous hygroscopic material positioned on the terahertz reflective material. A temperature sensor may include a terahertz reflective material; an anhydrous hygroscopic material positioned on the terahertz reflective material; and a polymer overlay having thermally controlled water permeability disposed on the anhydrous hygroscopic material. Some embodiments relate to a tag identification device configured to transmit an incident signal toward the tag, and to receive a reply signal from the tag in response to the incident signal.