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Research

WVU chemist is a molecular architect

West Virginia University chemist Kung Wang is an architect—not the kind who designs houses – one who designs molecules. Wang is constructing a synthetic pathway to creating new molecular templates for growing carbon nanotubes, honeycomb-shaped tubes that are the foundation for applications in nanotechnology and for conducting electricity.

WVU researchers dig in to find ways to reclaim marginal lands, economies

Out of the 10 million acres of land damaged by extractive industries in Appalachia, about 500,000 lie in the borders of West Virginia. Rather than discarding the region’s history, West Virginia University researcher Zachary Freedman sees the future of that land remaining in the energy sector. But instead of removing something from the earth, he’ll put something back.

WVU researcher studies new treatment for pancreatic cancer

One reason pancreatic cancer is so lethal is its resistance to traditional chemotherapy. But West Virginia University surgical oncologist Brian Boone is exploring whether FOLFIRINOX—a new combination of cancer drugs—can improve outcomes in patients whose pancreatic cancer is “borderline resectable,” meaning that a tumor may be too close to a blood vessel to be removed safely.

WVU and NIOSH study ways to prevent lung disease in dentistry professionals

Inhaling dangerous particulates is a hazard of coal mining, mold remediation, sandblasting … and dentistry. Fotinos Panagakos, associate dean of research at the West Virginia University School of Dentistry, is collaborating with a team at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health to study how microscopic, airborne particulates and gases might be generated during dental procedures. NIOSH—a division of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention—is funding the project.