Researchers are studying the Amazon ecosystem's response to extreme weather events like droughts and floods to predict its impact on climate change. They will analyze data from NASA satellites, field observations, and fishery activities to understand how changes in water levels affect aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems.
Researchers found that individuals with high rates of future discounting showed significant reductions in substance use after treatment, suggesting that prioritizing instant gratification may be a hallmark of recovery. A simple cognitive test measuring present-moment bias could help personalize addiction treatments.
Virginia Tech researchers uncover complexities of the chemical spill, determining the odor threshold concentration of the trans-isomer to be 350 parts per trillion by volume in the air. This finding highlights the need for independent measurement of cis and trans isomers to understand their properties.
A neuroscientist at Virginia Tech is researching how the brain develops collateral blood vessels to restore oxygen and nutrients after a stroke. Her study aims to understand the brain's natural network of collateral vessels and develop new treatments to improve blood flow and limit tissue damage.
Researchers led by Maria Belen Cassera aim to identify new drug targets for preventing malaria transmission by studying the metabolism of the malaria-causing parasite Plasmodium falciparum. The project focuses on understanding the role of isoprenoids in early stages of gametocytogenesis.
Researchers at Virginia Tech and MIT have developed a computer-aided design tool called GenoCAD to create genetic languages for designing biological systems. The tool helps capture biological rules to engineer organisms that produce useful products or healthcare solutions from inexpensive materials. GenoCAD enables the standardization ...
Researchers argue that life history strategy and social behavior should guide management approaches, as 73% of carnivore species are declining. Highly cohesive social species require strict participation from all group members to ensure population persistence.
The team is determining the long-term fate of chemicals in drinking water distribution systems and the environment. They are also evaluating interactions between MCHM and plastic pipes and epoxy liners, which will help determine long-term remediation measures.
A universal language is proposed to classify organisms by their genome sequence, enhancing the current biological naming system. This new system adds further information to classify organisms and enables rapid identification of new ones.
A team of scientists from Harvard University and Virginia Tech has established a reliable set of human genotypes to benchmark human genome sequencing. This will help researchers gain traction against human disease by refining genomic data. The findings are available online, enabling real-time benchmarking of DNA-sequencing methods.
The Virginia Tech Transportation Institute is designing an integration framework for vehicles to communicate with drivers and other cars on the roadway. The project aims to provide timely and relevant information to motorists, such as traffic warnings and weather alerts, while minimizing distractions.
A team of researchers discovered that ancient microbes used a process similar to photosynthesis to produce methane 2.5 billion years ago, long before oxygen became available. This finding may have implications for understanding climate change, agriculture, and human health.
A new study published in the Journal of Neurosurgery found that football helmets with improved design can significantly reduce concussion risk. The research analyzed head impact data from eight collegiate teams and showed a 54% reduction in concussions for players wearing Riddell Revolution helmets compared to VSR4 helmets.
A study by Virginia Tech researchers reveals that brain tumor cells with diverse physical traits are safer due to chromosomal abnormalities. These abnormalities lead to cell diversity and survival of brain tumors.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have devised a natural way to combat the devastating papaya mealybug, saving Indian farmers and consumers billions of dollars. The intervention, which used parasitic wasps from Mexico, prevented devastation worth $524-1.34 billion over five years.
A Virginia Tech research team has developed a battery that runs on sugar, boasting an unmatched energy density and potentially replacing conventional batteries. The new battery could power cell phones, tablets, and other electronic gadgets in as little as three years.
Guohua Cao is developing a novel, five-dimensional micro-computer tomography scanner to image atherosclerotic plaques in transgenic mouse models. The system combines three separately developed technologies to provide high spatial and temporal resolution images of small animals.
A new study demonstrates that ultrasound directed to a specific region of the human brain can enhance sensory perception. The technique showed significant improvements in distinguishing pins at closer distances and detecting small frequency differences.
A Virginia Tech engineer is studying the impact of the recent Colorado flood on antibiotic resistance genes. The researcher aims to understand how floodwaters can transport and disseminate these genes, which could have significant implications for human and animal health.
Denise R. Simmons, a Virginia Tech professor, received an NSF CAREER award to study factors influencing engineering students' co-curricular involvement and workforce entry. Her goal is to broaden participation in engineering degrees and increase the number of engineers entering the technological workforce.
De Vita is working with collaborative partners to determine the elastic and viscoelastic properties of uterosacral and cardinal ligaments. Her research could transform surgical reconstruction methods for female sufferers, establishing new guidelines and biocompatible grafts.
Novice teen drivers are more likely to engage in high-risk secondary tasks as they gain driving experience, increasing their risk of crashes. The study found that cell phone use, eating, and talking to passengers were the most distracting behaviors for new drivers.
Studies show that environmental factors significantly impact the genetic makeup of fruit flies living in 'Evolution Canyon', a unique natural environment with contrasting climates. The research confirms natural selection as a powerful influence in shaping the population's gene pool.
Researchers say sea-level rise will become the dominant driver of flooding and coastal damage, even if storm activity changes. The study suggests a holistic approach to manage coastal systems to mitigate this threat.
The state of Virginia has awarded $2.6 million to operate an unmanned aircraft systems test site, led by Virginia Tech and Rutgers University. The partnership aims to develop autonomous technology with significant economic impact, including 180-860 jobs and $45-164 million in economic activity.
Researchers Hanna, Guven, and Müller used patterns on whirling dervish skirts to create mathematical equations governing cone-shaped structures in rotation. Their work enhances understanding of flexible object dynamics and pattern formation in rotating systems.
John Jelesko, an associate professor of plant pathology and physiology at Virginia Tech, has been recognized as an AAAS Fellow for his distinguished contributions to the field of plant specialized metabolism. His research has led to a better understanding of plant metabolism with significant implications for the pharmaceutical industry.
Researchers propose harnessing beneficial microbes to control opportunistic pathogens in household plumbing, which can harbor deadly germs like Legionella and M. avium complex. This approach aims to improve water-borne disease control by leveraging the microbiome's potential for competition.
A new computing model developed by Virginia Tech researchers enables faster analysis and smarter insights from large-scale DNA sequencing data. This allows life scientists to collaborate globally on 24/7, sharing public data sets and facilitating large-scale collaborative research.
Neurons from the retina connect to the brain first, controlling the abundance of a protein called aggrecan. This allows cortical neurons to get the best spots for connections once two weeks have passed. Understanding this mechanism could help repair damaged neural networks and develop regenerative therapies.
The Nanotechnology Consumer Product Inventory has been restructured to improve its functionality and scientific credibility. The database now includes qualitative and quantitative descriptors for nanomaterials and their potential exposure routes, enabling better understanding of the risks associated with consumer products.
Researchers identify Chinese strain as origin of emerging US swine virus with high mortality rates, emphasizing the need for strict biosecurity and sanitation procedures on farms. The study found that the US strains share 99.5% of their genetic code with their Chinese counterpart, indicating a possible evolutionary origin from bats.
Researchers discovered how jellyfish move with lowest cost of transport, using a critical pause between contraction and expansion to create a vortex that propels them forward. This feat allows the creature to travel 30% farther each stroke cycle, reducing metabolic energy demand by swimming muscles.
Researchers at Virginia Tech aim to improve understanding of how environmental conditions affect the influenza virus's ability to survive and infect others while airborne. The project seeks to clarify why humidity affects the virus's transmission.
A new large animal model was developed to study immune responses to H. pylori, a leading cause of peptic ulcers. The pig model showed an increase in pro-inflammatory CD4+ T helper cells and cytotoxic T cells, mirroring recent human clinical studies.
Researchers used a special microscope to reveal how nanostructures contain damage within microscopic cavities, allowing trees to seal off damaged cells. The bordered pits are filled with a mesh membrane of nanofibrils that radiate from a thickened central region, controlling sap flow and protecting trees.
Researchers found that neurofeedback techniques can improve whole-brain signal-to-noise ratio, allowing for clearer thought and concentration. This technology has implications for brain rehabilitation and treatment of disorders such as traumatic injury or stroke.
Researchers used a simple questionnaire and existing hospital staff to gather data on diarrheal disease outbreaks in the Chobe District of Botswana. The study found that environmental factors, such as water shortages and dirty water, are important drivers of outbreaks, and can inform immediate action.
Scientists at Virginia Tech Carilion Research Institute have reported experimental evidence supporting the top-down theory of fullerene formation. The discovery could lead to better medical imaging contrast agents and cancer treatment methods, as fullerenes with trapped metal atoms show low side-effect risks.
Researchers found that removing specific receptors affects brain boundary formation differently than expected, suggesting new molecules may be involved. This discovery sheds light on the neural network development and could lead to therapies and diagnostics for brain diseases.
Researchers have developed a new flexible microneedle patch that can deliver drugs directly through the skin, quickening delivery time and minimizing side effects. The breakthrough technology uses particle replication to create patches with precise control over shape and composition, reducing waste and increasing production efficiency.
Researchers at Virginia Tech and Purdue University have developed a novel polymer that helps orally administered drugs reach the bloodstream. The polymer, made from natural cellulose, prevents crystallization and enhances drug stability and solubility, making it potentially more effective for treating serious illnesses.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed a wearable helmet sensor that can detect the onset of carbon monoxide poisoning in construction workers with a probability of greater than 99%. The sensor uses pulse oximetry technology to monitor blood gas saturation levels, providing early warnings to prevent potential harm.
Researchers studied the dynamics of squeezing fluids using a simple experiment of clapping with wet hands. The study sheds light on the behavior of fluids at the microscale level and has implications for fuel efficiency and pharmaceutical drug deliveries.
Researchers aim to develop innovative ways to enhance smokers' ability to abstain from nicotine cravings. The study will recruit hundreds of smokers and use behavioral exercises to build resistance to tobacco withdrawal cues.
Scientists discovered that certain sugars can control the timing and placement of minerals used to produce hard structures like shells and exoskeletons. The research proposes a theory on how charged and uncharged sugars can create these structures, offering potential for new environmental and medical technologies.
Researchers at Virginia Tech discovered a relic seawall in Bay Head, NJ, that played a crucial role in protecting homes from Hurricane Sandy's storm surges. The 1882 structure, buried beneath the beach, provided significant dampening of waves and prevented widespread destruction.
Researchers aim to identify genetic elements that enable animal hepatitis E strains to infect humans, with potential implications for fighting cross-species virus infections. The study will also investigate host immune factors that defend against the virus.
Researchers found tigers in central Sumatra live at lower than expected densities due to high levels of human activity. The study suggests that legal protection and intensive management can reduce human disturbance and facilitate tiger recovery.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed a new three-dimensional microfluidic device that can customize channel shapes to mimic natural conditions. The technology has potential applications in water and food safety, as well as biological terrorism detection.