Explains models from natural flash systems Discusses theoretical considerations of flash systems Presents approaches and procedures for designing synthetic flash systems Explores methods for preparing flash systems for specific applications The design of environment-sensitive devices for biomedical and pharmaceutical applications has improved significantly due to recent advances in smart polymer and hydrogel technology. Despite their capacity to carry out functions that previously were unobtainable, smart polymers and hydrogels tend to have painfully slow response times. On the other hand biological systems go through phase changes at an extremely fast rate. This book examines the natural systems that respond almost instantaneously to environmental stimuli, and thus gives the reader an understanding of the mechanisms that govern these responses. The book includes chapters on how to go about designing a synthetic "flash" system based on the naturally occurring systems. It also deals with potential applications of flash systems in biomedical and pharmaceutical areas.

. Despite their capacity to carry out functions that previously were unobtainable, smart polymers and hydrogels tend to have painfully slow response times. On the other hand biological systems go through phase changes at an extremely fast rate. Reflexive Polymers and Hydrogels examines the natural systems that respond almost instantaneously to environmental stimuli, and thus gives the reader an understanding of the mechanisms that govern these responses. The book includes chapters on approaches and procedures for designing a synthetic ...flash... system based on naturally occurring systems. It also deals with some of the promising potential applications of flash systems in industry.

Supramolecular chemistry is the outburst topic of the next generation of science. While the majority of biomedical research efforts to date have centered on utilizing well-known polymeric materials, the recent progress in supramolecular chemistry has introduced a fascinating new field of macromolecular architecture.

Supramolecular Design for Biological Applications focuses on modulating, altering, and mimicking biological functions with a new family of molecular assemblies. The authors provide innovative ideas and concepts for developing novel biomaterials that could be applied in diagnosis, drug carrier operations, and environmental protection. This reference is comprehensive, presenting principles, applications, recent advances, and future directions. Each chapter includes clear and informative illustrations of molecular architectures. The writing is scientific but allows for easy comprehension of the differences in molecular interactions, dimensions, and supramolecular architecture.

Supramolecular Design for Biological Applications will advance the understanding of supramolecular-structured biomaterials and associated issues regarding biological functions. By explaining recent trends and molecular interactions, this book will enable you to initiate new research for nano-scale science and technology in the 21st century.