Search Results (4)

The hydrogel patent landscape is characterized by rapid growth and diverse applications, particularly in the biomedical field. Advances in material science, chemistry, novel manufacturing techniques, and a deeper understanding of biological systems have revolutionized the development of hydrogel-based biomaterials. These innovations have led to enhanced properties and expanded applications, particularly in regenerative medicine, drug delivery, and tissue engineering, positioning hydrogels as a pivotal material in the future of biomedical engineering. In this study, an updated patent landscape for hydrogel-based biomaterials is proposed. By analyzing patent documents, classifications, jurisdictions, and applicants, an overview is provided to characterize key trends and insights. The analysis reveals that hydrogel-related patents are experiencing significant growth, with a strong focus on biomedical applications. Foundational research in hydrogel formation remains dominant, with 96,987 patent documents highlighting advancements in crosslinking techniques, polysaccharide-based materials, and biologically active hydrogels for wound care and tissue regeneration. The United States and China lead in hydrogel-related patent filings, with notable contributions from Europe and a high number of international patents under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) system, reflecting the global interest in hydrogel technologies. Moreover, emerging innovations include biodegradable hydrogels designed for tissue regeneration, wearable hydrogel-based sensors, and advanced therapeutic applications such as chemoembolization agents and vascular defect treatments. The increasing integration of bioactive elements in hydrogel systems is driving the development of multifunctional biomaterials tailored to specific medical and environmental needs. While this study focuses on patent trends, the alignment between hydrogel research and patenting activities underscores the role of patents in bridging scientific discoveries with industrial applications. Future research could explore patent citation analysis and impact assessments to gain deeper insights into the technological significance of hydrogel-related inventions. Finally, a selection of the top 10 recent active and granted patents in the field of hydrogel-based biomaterials is presented as an illustrative example of innovation in this area and to illustrate cutting-edge innovations. Full article

The current international investment treaty network is not well suited to climate goals. The tension stems from the fact that “old generation” of international investment agreements were concluded before the widespread climate action and they were “climate neutral” or “climate blind”. This study explores the obstacles for international investment agreements and investment arbitration to tackle climate change issues, indicating the need for reform. Despite the fact that some states have begun to reform their international investment agreements in light of climate change, there are still many shortcomings to be addressed. The current international investment agreement regime should be reformed to incorporate climate change considerations for investment arbitration to contribute to climate change mitigation. According to the findings, updating investment treaties based on a climate-oriented model would be a viable option for states. Full article

Fluorinated greenhouse gases (F-gases), including hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), perfluorocarbons (PFCs), sulfur hexafluoride (SF₆), and nitrogen trifluoride (NF₃), are used in a variety of applications, but they are potent greenhouse gases (GHGs). Therefore, they have been blanketed into the list of items to be phased out under international protocols or treaties. During the desk research, the updated statistics of Taiwan’s National Inventory Report (NIR) were used to analyze the trends of F-gases (i.e., HFCs, PFCs, SF₆, and NF₃) emissions during the period of 2000–2020. Furthermore, the regulatory strategies and measures for the reduction of the four F-gas emissions will be summarized to be in accordance with the national and international regulations. With the rapid development in the electronics industry, the total F-gas emissions indicate a significant increase from 2462 kilotons of carbon dioxide equivalents (CO_2eq) in 2000 to the peak value (i.e., 12,643 kilotons) of CO_2eq in 2004. However, it sharply decreased from 10,284 kilotons of CO_2eq in 2005 to 3906 kilotons of CO_2eq in 2020 due to the ongoing efforts of the regulatory requirements and the industry’s voluntary reduction in time sequence. It was also found that the most commonly used method for controlling the emissions of F-gases from the semiconductor and optoelectronic industries in Taiwan is based on the thermal destruction-local scrubbing method. Full article

The forward planning of the return of Humans to the lunar surface as envisioned by different national and collaborative space agencies requires consideration of the fragility and pristine nature of the lunar surface. Current international treaties are outdated and require immediate action for their update and amendment. This should be taken as an opportunity for self-reflection and potential censoring, enabling a mature, responsible, and iterated sequence of decisions prior to returning. The protocols developed for assessing the ethical and social impacts of Humans on the lunar surface will provide a blueprint for planning future exploration activities on other planetary bodies in the Solar System and beyond. Full article