Researchers at Virginia Tech have synthesized a novel acrylic blend using water instead of organic solvents, allowing for the production of polymers without solvent use. The new blend is made possible by introducing carbohydrates to solubilize hydrophobic monomers, enabling their formation in water.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed a new family of polydienes with the highest molecular weights ever reported, improving thermal and mechanical properties for enhanced performance. The material also exhibits unique optical disk and optical fiber applications due to its high refractive index.
Researchers have successfully synthesized a highly potent memory-enhancing compound by joining two fragments of the Huperzine A molecule with a molecular tether. This simplified fragment can be easily produced from cheap, commercially available chemicals and has been shown to improve memory in animal tests.
Researchers at Virginia Tech are using in-situ infrared spectroscopy to monitor the molecular structure of materials during chip manufacture, enabling the creation of smaller and more complex components. This new level of quality assurance is crucial for the development of next-generation computer chips.
Virginia Tech researchers create supramolecular complexes with multiple capabilities, including new DNA binding properties and solar energy conversion potential. The complexes are formed by connecting metal-based molecules using polyazine ligands, allowing for the creation of diverse systems with unique properties.
Ezra A. Brown, professor of mathematics at Virginia Tech, received the George Pólya Award for his article 'Square Roots from 1;24,51,10 to Dan Shanks' published in College Mathematics Journal in March 1999. The award recognizes excellence in mathematical exposition.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
Layne T. Watson develops software like HOMPACK to automate problem-solving in industries like engineering and science, improving efficiency and reducing time to market.
Virginia Tech engineers propose integrating simulation models to evaluate the national airspace system, addressing critical bottlenecks in aircraft sequencing, runway operations, and taxiway management. By optimizing these processes, they aim to reduce time delays and increase airport efficiency.
Virginia Tech dairy scientist R. Michael Akers has greatly advanced understanding of mammary gland development, growth factors, and transgenic technology worldwide. His research discovered new information about growth hormone regulation and produced transgenic mice that synthesize IGF-I in their mammary tissue.
Researchers at Virginia Tech are studying the effects of specialized exercise on bones in young women to prevent stress fractures. The study will involve 160 women between 18-26 years old and investigate the impact of isokinetic resistance exercises on bone stiffness.
More than half of Virginians agree that not enough is spent on elementary and secondary public schools. While most residents believe public schools do a good job of teaching math and science, 82% think school administrators should take more responsibility to prevent violence in schools.
A survey by Virginia Tech found that 54% of citizens agree that not enough is spent on elementary and secondary public schools, while 64% support using the lottery to fund education. In contrast, 79% believe public schools do a good job teaching math and science.
A Virginia Tech researcher's work has influenced reclamation policy, guidelines, and regulations in four Appalachian states. The study quantified the diversity, productivity, commercial value, and carbon-capture potential of 21 mined and reforested sites across a seven-state region.
Harold McNair, a renowned chemist at Virginia Tech, has been awarded the American Chemical Society's Calvin Giddings Award for his outstanding contributions to analytical chemistry. He was recognized for his work on pesticide analysis using gas chromatography and mass spectrometry.
Experts examine parasitic and infectious diseases that can be spread by animals to people, highlighting the importance of integrated perspectives on human-animal interaction. The symposium aims to create a forum for discussing public health and food safety issues related to animal-human relationships.
Using actively controlled engine noise cancellation technology can reduce noise pollution, improve fuel efficiency and alleviate environmental restrictions. This new approach eliminates the need for additional weight, increasing the viability of the concept.
Gwen Lloyd has received a $438,354 NSF CAREER award to develop an integrated program of research and education on teacher learning with innovative K-12 materials. The project aims to promote meaningful changes in prospective teachers' conceptions and classroom practices through the use of reform-oriented curriculum materials.
The Virginia Tech Transportation Institute has secured a $15 million contract from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to conduct advanced safety research. The consortium will explore human factors research using data collected on actual roadways, test facilities, and simulated driving conditions.
John J. Ney received the 1999 Outstanding Achievement Award from the American Fisheries Society for his long-term research on reservoir fish communities and their trophic relationships. His work has significantly impacted fisheries productivity, particularly in manmade waterbodies.
The Biomedical Informatics Research Group created a Java-based Problem List Generator learning tool to help veterinary students develop higher-order thinking skills through case-based problems. The technology has shown success and is being funded by the US Department of Agriculture for further development.
Researchers have identified a compound in tobacco that inhibits an enzyme that breaks down key brain chemicals, potentially offering protection against Parkinson's disease. The discovery opens up new avenues of research and may lead to the development of neuroprotective compounds.
The Virginia Heritage Project will create an integrated database of thousands of tagged finding aids describing the history and culture of African-Americans in Virginia. Researchers can access primary sources online, saving time and money.
The two-part documentary series explores how West Virginia became a separate state, with equal support for northern and southern causes. The series highlights the military actions and events that led to West Virginia's secession from Virginia and its subsequent development as a distinct state.
Borggaard, a Virginia Tech assistant professor, has made important contributions to the Air Force's science and technology needs with his work on continuous sensitivity equation methods. His research aims to reduce design cycle times and improve aerodynamic flows, benefiting aircraft performance and fuel efficiency.
Dr. Sanjay Raman is developing single IC chip technology that can integrate antennas and electronics in wireless devices, enabling smaller devices with vast applications in military, medical, and environmental fields. He also aims to create comprehensive communications curriculums at Virginia Tech.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have created a gel that allows women to control their fertility and reduce the risk of infection from HIV, yeast infections, and other STDs. The acylcarnitium analog, Z-15, has demonstrated in vitro effectiveness as a spermicide and inhibits multiple STDs.
Researchers at Virginia Tech are developing new proton exchange membrane (PEM) materials for fuel cells, which can operate at higher temperatures and improve efficiency. The materials being developed have demonstrated better results than existing materials in terms of heat tolerance.
Researchers at Virginia Tech found that the amount of lead in the environment from bullets on battlefields is not a significant concern for water quality, with no contamination detected off range. However, they discovered that shot impacts cause significant damage to trees up to 140 meters beyond the range.
Researchers have discovered gold grains, tin-based pewter plates, and lead shots at the Blackbeard's flagship wreck, providing insights into the treasure's composition and burial conditions. The findings are part of two studies presented at the Southeastern Section Geological Sciences Association Meeting on March 23.
The First Annual Civil War Medical Symposium will examine the influence of the mid-1800s conflict on modern medicine. Four physicians will discuss specific medical advances resulting from the war, including improvements in nerve injury treatment and smallpox vaccination.
Hanif Sherali, a Virginia Tech professor, has been elected to the National Academy of Engineering for his significant contributions to engineering system design. He is recognized for his invention of the Reformulation-Linearization Technique, which has been applied to various complex real-world problems.
Wayne Purcell, an agricultural economist, and Y.A. Liu, a chemical engineering professor, have received the Virginia Outstanding Faculty Award for their contributions to education, research, and community service. They are among 11 faculty members recognized for their impact on the state's agriculture industry.
The program aims to control the raccoon rabies epidemic by delivering oral vaccines through baits. The goal is to protect citizens and companion animals from exposure to the deadly virus.
The World Institute for Disaster Risk Management aims to apply research to mitigate disaster losses. It will work with governments, agencies, private enterprises, and NGOs to create a network for applied research, implementation, and information dissemination.
A study by Catherine C. Eckel and Rick K. Wilson found that when people observe a high-status individual, such as a celebrity, they are more likely to choose a cooperative strategy with a better outcome. However, the influence of the celebrity is limited to choosing a good product or one of two equally good products.
The Virginia Tech/Clemson project aims to develop low-cost carbon fiber for automotive use, reducing costs from $8 per pound to less than $5 per pound. The project involves developing a new polymer precursor to reduce production costs and increase the percentage of carbon in the final fiber.
A Virginia Tech study finds rural single female-headed households face significant barriers to entering the workforce due to lack of transportation and public services. The study suggests these areas will be disproportionately affected in an economic downturn.
A study by Virginia Tech found that workplace financial education positively impacts worker money behaviors and attitudes. After participating in a program, employees reported better health, improved confidence in managing finances, and increased savings.
The Choices and Challenges public forum project at Virginia Tech explores the humanistic components of science and technology, covering topics from genetic engineering to space technologies. The series has received national recognition, including two national awards, for its innovative approach to promoting dialogue between science, so...
Researchers have developed a suite of software tools called GETWEBS to design and evaluate broadband wireless systems. The project addresses key components of the wireless industry, including evolving technology, environment interaction, and system integration.
The Networked Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations (NDLTD) is expanding internationally, with UNESCO joining and collaborations with the NSF, DFG, and ISTEC. These partnerships aim to overcome language and policy challenges, enabling easier sharing of electronic theses and dissertations across countries.
The Microbe-Mineral Group at Virginia Tech aims to discover conditions under which microbes release nutrients or contaminants from mineral surfaces. Researchers hope to advance bioremediation and control unwanted releases of phosphorus and other minerals.