A Chimpanzee Genome Project is proposed due to the remarkable differences in diseases affecting humans and chimps. The project aims to identify genetic factors contributing to these disparities, which could lead to better treatments for both humans and captive apes.
Two human studies suggest CLA may help overweight individuals lose weight and fat, maintain weight loss, retain lean muscle mass, and control adult-onset diabetes. In one study, participants experienced a statistically significant reduction in body fat gain with no serious side effects.
A new plastic coating called polyaniline has been discovered that can prevent rust and corrosion in metal structures, lasting up to 10 times longer than traditional coatings. This polymer-based coating reacts with iron and steel to create an organic metal that halts corrosion.
Virginia Tech Professor James Wightman to tell the story of Benjamin Franklin and Agnes Pockels' groundbreaking work in surface chemistry. Pockels, a German hausfrau, was the first to determine cause and measure monolayer effects, paving the way for Langmuir-Blodgett films.
Researchers at Virginia Tech are developing new proton-exchange membrane (PEM) materials with improved behavior, including the ability to operate at higher temperatures. These advancements aim to reduce polymer properties' impact on fuel cell applications.
Researchers found unexpectedly high levels of ammonia in the exhaust of gasoline-powered cars on a southern California freeway ramp. The study suggests that cars are adding twice as much ammonia to the air as livestock do, with a small share of vehicles producing most of the pollution.
Research found that a poor diet, particularly low intakes of vegetables and vitamin E, significantly increases the risk of wheeze in children with asthma symptoms. The study suggests that a Western diet may be an important contributing factor to the rising prevalence of asthma and allergies in developed countries.
Virginia Tech researchers create optoelectronic devices using ionically self-assembled monolayers, overcoming stability challenges in nonlinear optical materials. The breakthrough could lead to conformal coatings for Mach-Zender interferometers and enable new applications in laser systems and data storage.
Researchers found that lard and choice white grease produce less nitrogen oxides, ash, and carbon monoxide when burned compared to No. 6 fuel oil. The study suggests that these alternatives could be a cleaner and more sustainable option for the food processing industry.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have developed a technique to simulate various gravitational environments using a magnetic levitation method. This allows them to study the behavior of liquids and solids in conditions ranging from Earth's gravity to zero-G environments, providing new insights into fluid dynamics.
Penn State researchers have created a rapid test method to identify adulterated honey using spectroscopy, capable of detecting as little as 1% beet sugar invert. The new approach aims to meet US standards for natural honey products with nutraceutical properties.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital used fMRI scans to study how the brain processes facial expressions from different racial groups. The results showed differences in amygdala response, suggesting people may become more familiar with their own racial group's faces.
A new teaching method combines computer-assisted methods with hands-on laboratory exercises to help undergraduate students understand molecules. The integrated experiment allows students to explore molecular characteristics on the computer and test predictions in the lab.
A recent study found that patients with greater self-control of their health experience improved depression symptoms, regardless of treatment type or duration. The research highlights the importance of assessing anxiety disorders and patient beliefs in controllability of depressive symptoms for effective treatment.
A team of researchers at Virginia Tech has developed a new coating that is cross-linked by oxygen in the air and provides scratch and chemical resistance. The goal of this innovative coating is to harden quickly in under two hours without producing any byproducts or odors.
A health survey of Hong Kong police officers found that longer exposure to passive smoking was associated with more time off work, doctor visits, and medication use. Non-smoking men exposed for over a year were twice as likely to take time off and 30% more likely to have respiratory symptoms.
Researchers have designed an innovative approach to chemotherapy that utilizes genetic material to selectively destroy cancerous cells. By combining complementary DNA sequences, a prodrug and catalyst can be triggered to release a cytotoxic agent.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed a new type of flame retardant material that is also lightweight and strong. The materials, which are based on phenolic resin, have been shown to burn at near-zero rates, making them ideal for use in structures such as offshore oil platforms and tunnels.
Research published in Thorax found that COPD rates in women have almost doubled over the past decade. The study analyzed data from over 4 million patients and found significant increases in COPD cases among older women. Despite this, women with severe COPD tend to survive longer than men with similar severity.
Researchers have designed a new type of polymer surface modifier that could result in more universal adhesives. The development uses block polymers where the adhesive properties can be tuned on a surface, allowing it to interact with different molecules or a range of molecules.
Virginia Tech researchers have developed a new class of supramolecular complexes that can bind to DNA and are water soluble. The complexes, created by coupling anticancer drug cisplatin with ruthenium(II) chromophores, can be easily modified synthetically.