Abstract: The present invention relates to several novel compositions and methods employing infrared radiation microwave radiation or high voltage polymerization for modifying the surfaces of materials to impart desired characteristics thereto. More particularly, the present invention relates to a method for modifying the surfaces of objects to increase the lubricity, hydrophilicity, hydrophobicity, or biofunctionality of the surface of the object.

Abstract: The present invention is an improved method involving microwaves for making polymer optical fiber cable and graded index optical fibers. The polymer can be any shape including, but not limited to, sheets, films or cable. The present invention also includes improved polymer optical fibers that incorporate quinine and quinone based compositions that shift the wavelength of radiation from ultraviolet radiation to visible radiation.

Abstract: This invention relates to biologically-active polymers that are useful for analyte detection and isolation and delivery of substances. The biologically-active polymers are capable of specifically and reversibly binding to analytes, including molecules and cells. The biologically-active polymers are also capable of releasing substances upon electrical stimulation. The present invention provides compositions comprising biologically-active polymer membranes and methods for making these biologically-active polymer membranes that may be specifically designed to selectively bind cells and specific cell types, to affect cell growth characteristics, and to modulate cellular differentiation. These biologically-active polymer membranes may be controlled electrically to induce controlled cellular differentiation and modulate the cell growth cycle. These biologically-active polymers have many applications in biological and chemical fields.