The most astounding fact about the universe is talked about here. This video is so beautifully done, the videos, animation, photography, music, and narration are all done perfectly in my opinion and all of those qualities are what make this such an inspiring video. I don't even know what it inspires me to do it just makes me happy and is so moving that it shocks me, and makes me want to be a better person.
This next video is what motivates me. First of all, boxing is one of my favorite ways to stay in shape. I would like to be able to fight but I am not allowed to so for now I can only train. This video motivates me to hit the bags every chance I get. If this guy can transform himself into a fighter without even having a bed to sleep in, then I should be able to fight too.
Something that scientists have been trying to replicate for years is a living thing's ability to heal itself and thus sustain repeated damage. Now, thanks to bioengineers at the University of California there is a jello like substance that reforms after being pulled apart. The substance is called Hydrogel and thanks to its high water content it is able to mimic flexibility and other textural qualities of biological matter.
Hydrogels are semi-solid, gummy-bear-like squishy materials made of chains of hydrophilic polymer molecules. Hydrophilic polymers contain polar functional groups which makes them water soluble.
The hydrophilic quality makes them a good analog for natural tissues so they often have medical applications.
The team at the University of California realized that the key to making the hydrogels self heal was giving the polymer chains a way to latch back on to each other if ripped apart or damaged. The solution is what they call "dangling side chains". They are finger like structures of hydrophilic polymer that reach off the main structure of polymers and act as something to grab on to. Another posotive trait of the self healing gel is that when pH of the solution it is in is lower, the bond becomes stronger between polymers. This will be ideal for suturing in the stomach, or creating containers for holding acidic materials.
The video below shows and explains how two pieces of the gel, when split apart, can put themselves back together with a little help. Enjoy.
