Researchers at WVU and Marshall University are analyzing COVID-19 samples to identify new variants, including the UK Variant B.1.1.7, which is believed to be more contagious than the original virus. The team aims to understand how these variants evolve and potentially develop therapeutics or vaccines.
A study by West Virginia University found that top sleep trackers can accurately measure total sleep time and sleep efficiency, but struggle with sleep staging accuracy. Researchers tested eight commercial sleep trackers and found that some devices overestimated or underestimated sleep metrics, while others were unable to quantify slee...
Researchers aim to combat antibiotic-resistant infections by developing new therapeutics, utilizing antibodies and artificial intelligence. The team targets bacteria such as Burkholderia and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, causing severe respiratory and other infections.
A novel approach by a West Virginia University researcher aims to gauge restoration success in wetlands. By measuring shrubs at ground level, he advances the criteria for assessing long-term restoration potential, providing a better indication of success.
Burke-Spolaor plans to use the fellowship funding to launch exploratory projects on gravitational waves and fast radio bursts. She aims to expand her work internationally through partnerships with the International Pulsar Timing Array.
A West Virginia University-led study combines most drug overdose deaths with all suicides into an expanded self-injury category, exposing a mental health crisis across the United States. The research found that the national annual average percentage change in the self-injury rate was 4.3%, compared to 1.8% for suicide rates.
A study by WVU biologists found that trees globally are consuming more carbon dioxide than previously reported, making forests crucial in regulating the Earth's atmosphere. The research shows that increased photosynthesis is the main driver of this increase, contradicting previous studies.
Researchers at NANOGrav Physics Frontiers Center have found intriguing low-frequency signal that may be attributable to gravitational waves. The signal is attributed to supermassive black hole pairs at the cores of merged, distant galaxies.
Researchers found that husbands and wives who had everyday routines disrupted by their spouses felt negative emotions toward them and perceived the marriage as turbulent. Couples who strategize and accommodate each other's schedules can reduce negative emotional responses.
Researchers used wearable technology to track the heart rate variability of women trying to conceive, finding that overall, they were in better shape after giving birth than before. The study suggests that physiologic markers show fitness gains occur during pregnancy, and may help obstetricians encourage pregnant patients.
A study by Kayla Follmer and Jake Follmer found that low-grade forms of workplace mistreatment can amplify suicidal thoughts in employees with depression or bipolar disorder. The researchers surveyed 279 American adults and discovered that perceived mistreatment, job engagement, and suicidal ideation are linked.
New research from West Virginia University economists finds that presidential inaugurations have gained popularity as must-see tourist events in recent years. Hotel occupancy rates around the inaugurations were significantly higher than other events, with increases seen prior to and after the ceremony.
A WVU Public Health professor is conducting research to better understand the needs of pregnant women with substance use disorder in rural West Virginia. The study aims to explore telehealth utilization rates and barriers to use, as well as develop interventions to support this vulnerable population.
WVU is launching a three-year drinking water testing and community engagement program to educate West Virginians about safe drinking water. The program will focus on several counties, providing free drinking water tests and support for interpreting results.
Researchers Matt Kasson and Angie Macias are studying the association between millipedes and fungi, revealing tremendous fungal diversity among colobognathan millipedes. The team plans to document fungal diversity associated with half of the US species, potentially uncovering new undescribed fungal species.
Bhattacharyya plans to use advanced mathematical models to inch the country closer to net zero emissions. He realizes it's a tall order, as large-scale, efficient carbon capture has seemingly been entrenched in decades of testing and development.
As telepsychiatry expands its services, patients in West Virginia show resilience in accessing care despite limited internet connections. The shift has enabled more accessible and convenient therapy sessions, potentially leading to better treatment outcomes.
The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of virtual therapy, allowing clinicians to transition outpatient behavioral-health visits to telepsychiatry. Despite initial concerns about connectivity issues, most patients adapted effectively, with only 10-15% experiencing problems. This expansion may become part of the new normal, ...
West Virginia University and the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources have teamed up to create a new testing laboratory at the Health Sciences Center. The lab will provide faster results, reduce costs, and support the demands of the state and university community.
Engineers at West Virginia University are developing a new energy conversion system that can reconcile the supply and demand conflict between renewables and power grids. The system uses hydrogen as a fuel to generate power, addressing the issue of excess renewable energy being dissipated due to storage limitations.
Researchers found that active shooter drills can cause emotional distress and uncertainty among students, highlighting the need for evidence-based strategies. Social-emotional learning programs and a safe, supportive environment are key to reducing gun violence in schools, according to West Virginia University Professor Keith Zullig.
A new epidemiological study from West Virginia University found that glucosamine supplements reduced all-cause mortality by 39% and cardiovascular-related deaths by 65%. The researchers analyzed data from 16,686 adults and suggest that people should continue exercising while considering the potential benefits of taking glucosamine pills.
A West Virginia University study suggests that local health departments are crucial in getting the hepatitis B vaccine to those who need it most, particularly individuals at risk of contracting the virus. The study found that partnerships between health departments and local drug treatment programs significantly increased vaccine compl...
A study by WVU finance professor Alexander Kurov and his co-author Chen Gu found that firm-level Twitter content can predict next-day stock returns and contains information about upcoming analyst recommendation changes, quarterly earnings surprises, and opening prices of initial public offerings. This research has important implication...
A new telescope, Outrigger, will be built at the Green Bank Observatory to pinpoint the locations of Fast Radio Bursts (FRBs) in far-off galaxies. The telescope will work with the existing CHIME telescope to triangulate FRB locations and provide insights into their nature.
A team of West Virginia University researchers are developing a protective jacket for tank cars that haul hazardous materials to prevent spills and leaks caused by accidents. The new composite material, made up of glass and polymer, improves fatigue, puncture, and fire resistance qualities.
A study by West Virginia University researchers found a sharp uptick in inquiries about end-of-life care during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Center's e-Directive Registry saw an increase in DNR cards and Physician Orders for Scope of Treatment forms, indicating a growing need for advance care planning.
The project aims to employ people formerly injected drugs and provide a robust recovery ecosystem by aiding recovery and physical health, with state-certified peer navigator/recovery coaches at the forefront. The goal is to create a comprehensive and sustainable approach to support those in recovery.
The WVU School of Public Health is conducting a seven-week mask observation study with the CDC to estimate correct mask-wearing rates. The study found that 85.1% of observed individuals wore masks and 84% of those who did wore them correctly, but still a quarter didn't wear masks properly.
West Virginia University has received a $1.2 million grant to establish telehealth connections between rural emergency departments and medical specialists. The program aims to provide acute, emergent subspecialty care in rural areas, reducing the need for hospital transfers and readmissions.
Researchers at West Virginia University are improving methane monitoring networks to prevent explosions in underground mines. The new system will enable proactive responses to rising trends, increasing safety and reducing production delays.
A study by West Virginia University economists found that Pearl Jam's 'Home Shows' drove significant economic growth in Seattle, including a $58 million increase in hotel revenue and a 90% occupancy rate. The concerts were deemed ideal for attracting tourists due to their unique timing and fanbase.
A new project led by West Virginia University researcher Kevin Bandura aims to understand the nature of dark energy by mapping out the distribution of matter throughout the universe. The three-year project will use precise observations to study the expansion of the universe, which is currently accelerating due to dark energy.
A new study found that chain pharmacies in West Virginia are more likely to stock emergency contraception than independent pharmacies. The researchers also found that many pharmacies have inadequate knowledge about the effectiveness of Plan B and can be intimidating for customers seeking it.
West Virginia University engineers have developed a new low-cost process to convert natural gas flared at industrial sites into high-value solid carbon and hydrogen. The $3 million DOE award aims to mitigate carbon dioxide emissions from shale gas production, benefiting various industries and the economy.
A West Virginia University professor argues that effective communication is crucial for gaining the American public's trust in scientists. By considering four dimensions of trust and tailored communication objectives, science communicators can increase perceptions of competence, integrity, benevolence, and openness.
A new study aims to replace daily eye drops with a brief low-energy laser procedure to lower eye pressure in glaucoma patients. The trial seeks to improve patients' quality of life and potentially offer a 'drop-free lifetime.'
A multi-state consortium will compile a large dataset to examine associations of improved outcomes with various treatments for COVID-19 patients. The project aims to answer fundamental questions about the virus's effects, including chronic complications and long-term impacts.
A study by West Virginia University found that COVID-19 outbreaks in long-term care facilities can be controlled through rapid testing, isolation, and effective communication among staff, residents, and families. Communication played a crucial role in quashing an outbreak at Sundale facility, where only five residents died.
A team led by West Virginia University researcher Larissa Casaburi is developing an AI model that predicts COVID-19 patient outcomes based on factors such as lung conditions, smoking history, and coal mining. The model has the potential to provide more accurate diagnoses and tailor treatment plans to individual patients.
Researchers discovered that extinct sea scorpions had air-breathing structures, including trabeculae pillars, which allowed them to breathe out of water. The findings suggest that their ancestors were semi-terrestrial and may have used their legs as paddles to swim.
Researchers at West Virginia University are developing a vaccine to prevent Lyme disease, which affects over 300,000 Americans annually. The team aims to identify relevant antigens and target them in hopes of clearing the pathogen out, making it harder for it to change and evade the immune system.
Researchers at West Virginia University aim to understand zinc's role in neuronal communication, using animal models and sensors to track activity. They hope to uncover the inner workings of the auditory cortex and develop new treatments for conditions like schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease.
A WVU-led study is testing online treatments for mild to moderate symptoms of anxiety and depression among West Virginians. The one-year project aims to provide immediate relief and assess patient progress over three months.
Researchers at West Virginia University discovered that blood substitution therapy can rescue the brains of mice from ischemic damage and improve outcomes. The study found that replacing 20% of the blood reduces damage to the brain, and the technique may be administered beyond the current three-hour window for stroke treatment.
Researchers at West Virginia University are developing a methane mitigator system to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from natural gas production sites. The goal is to decrease environmental impact and ensure compliance with emerging emissions restrictions, while improving overall system efficiency.
The WVU toxicologist aims to improve health and well-being in susceptible populations by studying the impact of air pollution on lung regeneration. He plans to identify adverse outcomes of carbon black and ground level ozone inhalation, and study mechanisms leading to lung injury and impairment of lung regeneration.
A team of researchers at West Virginia University has uncovered the manipulative qualities of a fungal parasite that infects cicadas, allowing it to transmit disease effectively. The fungus, Massospora, tricks male cicadas into mimicking female behavior, luring in unsuspecting males and eventually infecting them.
A WVU professor is researching environmental factors that lead to THC accumulation in industrial hemp, a key issue for growers. He aims to develop a new crop system and genetically modify the plant to reduce THC production.
The amount of space debris has increased exponentially over the decades, posing a significant challenge for safely operating spacecrafts in lower Earth orbit. WVU engineer Piyush Mehta is working on improving drag prediction accuracy with the help of a $125,000 NASA award.