dod-related research showcase booklet
DESCRIPTION
List of attending industries as well as a list of research descriptions and contact information of WVU facultyTRANSCRIPT
SHOWCASE FOR
DOD-RELATED
RESEARCH
HIGHLIGHTING
INNOVATION BY WVU FACULTY
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
NRCCE 101
WVU Evansdale Campus
Welcome,
The WVU Office of Research and Economic Development, through the sup-
port provided by the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation, has
launched an initiative to encourage innovation and commercialization
through research. The initiative, titled LIINC (Linking Innovation, Industry and
Commercialization), is designed to bring faculty expertise and talent to the
attention of our industry partners through networking events. This particular
event focuses on DOD-related research; future events will address bioscienc-
es and pharmaceuticals, and energy and the environment.
To our industry partners, we greatly appreciate your attendance at this event
and we hope you will take this opportunity to learn about the research taking
place at WVU. To facilitate new partnerships and future collaboration, this
booklet contains brief abstracts of our faculty’s research activities. We
strongly encourage you to contact them to learn about and discuss their re-
search in greater detail.
On behalf of our faculty, we thank you for your participation and we hope
you will see us as trusted partners for continued collaboration.
Lindsay Emery
Business Development Manager of LIINC
WVU Office of Research & Economic Development
304-293-0391
ATTENDING INDUSTRIES
Allegheny Science & Technology
Allegheny provides Management and Tech-nology solutions for federal, state, and local governments, federal civilian agencies, and commercial clients. We work in areas such as project management, financial analysis, software and systems engineering, as well as training and simulation, and specialized scientific, engineering, and technical support.
API Technologies
API Technologies designs, develops, and manu-factures innovative electronic systems, subsys-tems, RF/Microwave, secure systems, and Infor-mation Assurance products and solutions for defense, aerospace, and commercial applications.
Athena Sciences Corporation
Athena Sciences Corporation is a Woman Owned Small Business that provides technical services and solu-tions to commercial and government clients in the fields of aerospace and information technology. Athena core competen-cies include software development, spacecraft modeling and simulation, command and control, information technology services, and independent verification and valida-tion (IV&V) of mission critical software.
ATK
ATK specializes in delivering innovative solutions to meet our customers’ most de-manding challenges. From advanced engineering for developing cost-effective systems for defense and space markets, to revolutionary composite manufacturing pro-cesses and new product development for commercial markets, ATK has developed a unique set of capabilities to fulfill its customers’ needs.
Azimuth
As a leading electronic and software engineering firm for the Department of Defense (DoD) and other federal agen-cies and federally-funded projects, Azimuth delivers solid contract performance and loyalty to customers, with focus areas in defense, aerospace, medical services, infrastructure analysis, and manufac-turing.
B2G Alliance
B2G Alliance is a Veteran-Owned company established to help govern-ment customers procure the best services and products from the private sector. Our primary goal is to stimulate a more competitive business environment leading to higher standards for products and ser-vices in support of National Security interests.
BIMA (Biometrics Identity Management Agency)
The Biometrics Identity Management Agency leads Department of Defense activities to program, integrate, and syn-chronize biometric technologies and capa-bilities and to operate and maintain DoD's authoritative biometric database to support the National Security Strategy.
Colborn Morrison LLC
Colborn Morrison is a boutique busi-ness strategy, research & advisory, and project-based consulting services firm. Working closely with key Business and IT stakeholders throughout the organizational structure, Colborn Morrison uniquely tailors its range of business strategy, advisory, and project-based services on a client by client basis and helps ensure the success of their mission-critical projects by successfully bridging the gap between opportunity and execution.
createTank
createTank is a software company specializ-ing in open source software integration, services oriented architecture (soa), cloud computing, and software development best practices.
CSC
Our service offerings include cloud computing; business process, software and platform as a service solutions; sys-tem design and integration; IT and business process out-sourcing; applications software development; cyber securi-ty; Web and application hosting; mission support and tech-nical services; and management consulting.
EWA Government Systems
EWA Government Systems, Inc. (EWA GSI) is known for our EW expertise and engineering prow-ess in cyber security and cyber defense, radar development, EW software and hard-ware products, as well as expertise in test & evaluation, miniaturization & microelec-tronics, EW training and simulation products, and our unique tagging, tracking and locating technology.
Galaxy Global Corporation (a TMC company)
Galaxy Global Corporation is a Small Business with offices in West Virginia, Maryland, Michigan and Ohio. For over 21 years, Galaxy Global has been providing Information Technology Services in support of several Federal Government customers and major Federal Prime Contractors. Our core competencies include soft-ware development, independent verification and validation, bio-metrics research, test and evaluation, and project quality assurance.
High Technology Consortium Foundation
The WVHTC Foundation, based in Fairmont, West Virginia, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization func-tioning as an engine of economic change for grow-ing a statewide, regional and national high-tech business sector. We have established a multi-faceted approach to maximize economic development, commercialization and workforce development. Our departments in-clude Advanced Technologies Group, Mission Systems Group, Technology Transfer and Commercialization Group, INNOVA Commercialization Group, Affiliate Services Group, and I-79 Technology Park Development Group.
HCS Technologies
HCS is in the business of building and researching alternative energy and communications platforms, primarily with, and for Respondcomm. We are collaborating with WVU and WVU Tech to investigate power systems and intelligent power distribution systems (either standard grid/generator based or alternative energy) for specialized power requirements.
IRC Federal
From improving mission readiness of the DoD to integrating critical logistics supply chains, information technolo-gy is integral to government opera-tions. As one of the top IT development and integration firms in West Virginia, IRC Federal is a trusted partner to deploy mission critical solutions quickly, effectively, and on budget. IRC Federal's capabilities span the entire IT value chain, from basic infra-structure support all the way to the architectural design, integration and implementa-tion of mission critical applications and network centric systems.
KeyLogic
KeyLogic is an information technology con-sultant that offers IT systems consulting, knowledge management consulting, program management, system engineering and devel-opment, and intelligence community support.
ManTech
ManTech is a leading provider of mission critical, advanced technology solutions and technical services that include, but are not limited to: Sys-tems Engineering & Integration, Technology & Software Develop-ment, Enterprise Security Architecture, Intelligence Operations Support, Critical Infra-structure Protection, and Computer Forensics.
Mylan Pharmaceuticals
Mylan is one of the world’s leading generics and specialty pharma-ceutical companies, providing products to customers in more than 150 countries and territories. The company maintains one of the industry’s broadest and highest quality product portfolios, which is regularly bolstered by an innovative and robust product pipe-line. With a workforce of more than 16,000, Mylan has attained leading positions in key international markets through its wide array of dosage forms and delivery systems, significant manufacturing capacity, global commercial scale and a committed focus on quality and customer service.
National White Collar Crime Center
The mission of the National White Collar Crime Center (NW3C) is to provide training, investiga-tive support and research to agencies and enti-ties involved in the prevention, investigation and prosecution of economic and high-tech crime. A non-profit membership organization dedicated to supporting Law Enforcement in the prevention, investigation, and prose-cution of economic and high-tech crime, NW3C has been continuously funded through competitive grants for over three decades. NW3C membership consists of Law Enforce-ment agencies from all 50 states and four continents.
Raytheon
Raytheon is a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, homeland security and other government markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning 89 years, Raytheon pro-vides state-of-the-art electronics, mission systems integration and other capabilities in the areas of sensing; effects; and command, control, communications and intelligence systems, as well as a broad range of mission support services.
Raytheon Missile Systems, a component of Raytheon, is independently represented at this event.
RSI (Reliable Systems Incorporated)
Reliable Solutions Incorpo-rated is a Service Disabled Veteran Owned Business that focuses on providing Systems Development, Software Engineering, and Project Management services to clients in both the Federal and Private sectors. As a newly formed company, we are currently building an infrastructure of professional, highly motivated staff to serve customers in the Federal and Commercial arena.
SAIC
SAIC has a strong commitment to supporting programs of national importance – helping to solve or undertake our country’s most significant problems. We offer a broad range of services and products to address our customers' most com-plex and critical technology-related needs. These services include the following: Na-tional Security, Health, Energy & Environment, and Cybersecurity.
SecurLinx
SecurLinx offers solutions that store, process and share biometric template information specific to the challenges of law enforce-ment, gaming and the security industry. SecurLinx’ products have evolved out of our extensive experience in the biometrics field, our relationships with Biometric Service Providers and our work on behalf of the end users in law enforcement, the gaming industry and government security services.
ShieldSmith
Shieldsmith Corporation (Shieldsmith) is a supplier of systems and services to assist aircraft platform providers and lead system integrators to meet emerging aerial surveillance requirements of government agencies and commercial enterprises. From integrated power systems to complex payload systems, Shieldsmith solutions are powering advanced surveillance capabilities for airships, airplanes and other specialty airborne systems.
TMC Technologies
TMC Technologies is an information technology (IT) services company with significant contract experience at the federal and state government levels and a reputation for outstanding quality and service. First established in 1996 with headquarters in Fairmont, West Virginia, and offices in Asheville, North Carolina, and Boulder, Colorado, TMC Technologies--after a five year hiatus--is back in business with its original management team intact. Our past experience includes providing cost effective solutions to complex problems in the fields of software engi-neering, data management, project management and biometrics.
Tygart Technology
Tygart designs and develops commercial soft-ware products and provides an array of Infor-mation Technology (IT) consulting services for state and federal government clients. Tygart’s consultants provide a full-spectrum of services across all aspects of a pro-gram’s life cycle including, enterprise strategic planning, architecture design, software development, and system operation and maintenance.
The following companies were invited, but regrettably were unable to attend:
Air Robotics, CLMax Engineering, Fidelity Investments, ICXT, ManTech Enter-prise Integration Center, RSK Associates, Zoll Medical Corporation
FACULTY RESEARCH Environmental Problem Solving Research centers on the broad theme of natural resources management and environmental sciences. Specific research involves wildlife ecology and management, wetland and riparian ecology, restoration ecology, ecological implications of climate change, quantifying and evaluating ecosystem ser-vices, and evaluating and improving biochar for agricultural and remedia-tion purposes. James T. (Jim) Anderson 304 293-3825 [email protected]
Therapeutic intervention of post-trauma arthritis by CRAC regulation of bone development & pathology
Our project directly addresses the FY11 PRMRP Congressionally Di-rected Topic Area, Posttraumatic osteoarthritis.
Evaluation of the Army Physical Evaluation Board (APEB) results reveals that joint arthritis is the most common unfitting condition among warfighters *74+. Thus, there is an urgent need for new treatments that will prevent excessive bone erosion with joint arthritis and return these individuals to active duty or productive civilian lives.
Arthritis has two components: 1) inflammation, and 2) excessive bone destruction. While there are new effective drugs for inflammation, there is no effective treatment for the excessive bone erosion. Bone maintenance in the body is a dynamic process through the coordinated actions of two types of cells; osteoblasts that build new bone and osteoclasts that remove older bone cells. The excessive bone loss associated with arthritis is due to an imbalance of these actions that allows excessive osteoclast action. This pro-ject develops a potential drug aimed at controlling excessive osteoclast ac-tion with a goal of preventing bone erosion associated with posttraumatic osteoarthritis. This compound, 3,4-dichloropropionaniline (DCA) prevents osteoclast differentiation with minimum toxicity that holds the potential of being the first effective treatment for bone erosion. This compound pre-vents osteoclast differentiation by inhibiting monocyte calcium release-activated calcium (CRAC) channels.
John B. Barnett Professor and Chair Dept. Microbiology, Immunology and Cell Biology (T) 304-293-4029 (F) 203-293-7823
Analytical forensic chemistry and toxicology Our group focuses on applications of analytical chemistry to energetics, pro-pellants, explosives, drugs, and metabolites. We focus on solving current fo-rensic problems such as improving methodology for the analysis of gunshot residue, identification of novel markers drug ingestion, and methampheta-mine laboratory analysis and remediation. Suzanne Bell Associate Professor, Forensic and Analytical Chemistry 304-293-8606 [email protected] Research group website: http://www.wvu.edu/~forensic_chem/ Forensic Science Gateway: http://forensicgateway.wvu.edu/
Forensic Biology (estimating age of biological samples, estimating postmor-tem interval, body fluid identification) We use differential RNA degradation for estimating the age of biological sam-ples and post mortem intervals (PMI). Our technique allows PMIs to be made on samples collected anywhere in the world and is independent of knowledge of local insects. We use molecular beacons to detect tissue-specific RNAs us-ing a system that can be taken to the crime scene itself, allowing for identifi-cation of the body fluid type while at the scene itself. Clif Bishop [email protected] Eye Detection and Face Recognition: From Visible to Thermal Bands Dr. Bourlai created (2009) and, since then, has been supervising the WVU “Multi-Spectral Detection” team. He leads and has been involved in projects that study problems mainly in the field of biometrics using visible and hyper-spectral imaging sensors; facial recognition; multimodal biometrics and fu-sion; image restoration; identification in small platforms; gender identifica-tion). His other research interests are computer vision for biomedical applica-tions (e.g., recovery of cardiac pulse via thermal imaging), and human com-puter interaction. Currently, Dr. Bourlai focuses on surveillance applications including face detection, eye detection and cross-spectral (comparing infrared face images to visible ones) face recognition at variable ranges at night. Thirimachos Bourlai Work: 304-293-4326 Mobile: 832-713-9773 [email protected]
Cellular techniques to predict and define mechanisms of toxicity My name is Jonathan Boyd and I am an Assistant Professor in Chemis-try. I have a B.S. in Biochemistry and a Ph.D. in Environmental Toxicology. I am currently completing research for my DARPA YFA project where the ulti-mate goal is to understand the defense mechanisms of cellular systems (including both threat detection and mitigation), so that we might enhance the design of information network and detection systems in the future. In particular, I am using very early protein responses to predict acute toxicity, and then define the interaction networks (protein nodes/links, connectivity) that lead to survival or death. Jonathan Boyd [email protected]
Software engineering, biometrics, and adaptive and resilient computing Software Engineering: Dr. Cukic and his students are investigating the applica-tion of data mining and text search techniques to predict software quality and minimize software maintenance efforts. More specifically, semi-supervised machine learning techniques and tools developed at WVU are enabling soft-ware managers to accurately locate software components, which likely con-tain faults early in the development cycle. In the text mining arena, WVU researchers are developing the techniques that automatically analyze prob-lem reporting databases for duplicate reports, detect similarities between security vulnerability reports and exploits, and develop automated tests for large scale software service infrastructures. Sponsors: National Science Foun-dation, IBM Biometrics: The Center for Identification Technology Research is the largest US Industry – University Cooperative emphasizing biometrics and human credibility assessment research. Amongst many center projects, Dr. Cukic leads those that deal with model based performance analysis (US Points of Entry), biometric fusion, iris recognition, keystroke analysis for insider threat detection and surveillance systems. Sponsors: NSA, DHS, NIST, DoD, FBI, Lock-heed Martin, Raytheon, CSC, BAH, MorphoTrac, SAIC, etc. Adaptive and resilient computing: Dr. Cukic and his students have been inter-national leaders in the development of verification and validation techniques for adaptive flight control systems. Adaptive fly-by-wire systems have the capability to change system control directives depending on the faults and failures of critical control surfaces. While designed to increase safety and reliability, adaptive approaches suffer from inherent difficulty in developing safety and assurance cases. WVU research enabled NASA test aircraft to demonstrate the effectiveness of adaptive flight controls and accurately pre-
dict system reliability prior to the deployment. Sponsors: NASA Bojan Cukic Robert C. Byrd Professor of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering Director, Center for Identification Technology Research (CITeR) [email protected]
Adaptive algorithms for the Cooperative Control of Teams of Unmanned Vehicles This research includes the development, implementation and testing of vari-ous types of adaptive algorithms for the efficient tasking of heterogeneous assets to accomplish a variety of missions. Adaptive algorithms have been developed for previous projects funded through AFRL, ARL and Lockheed Martin. Marjorie Darrah Mobile: 304-376-3506 [email protected]
Enabling Technologies for Molecular Biometrics Dr. Dawson's research is focused on hardware and analysis component de-velopment for rapid DNA and lab-on-chip systems. He is currently leading teams focused on developing new lab-on chip technologies based on coupled nanophotonic/microfludic systems, and improving the throughput and per-formance of existing rapid DNA systems via novel signal processing tech-niques. Jeremy M. Dawson 304-293-4028 [email protected]
WVU Robotics Technology Center WVRTC is performing research in the areas of sensor systems and robotic operations for servicing of space assets on-orbit. Particular sensor systems include tactile / force sensor arrays, chemical leak detection sensors, and 3D visualization with blue micro-imager arrays. An objective of the sensor devel-opment is to operate within the environmental extremes of geosynchronous orbit. In addition, machine vision algorithms for position estimation to target and approach assets are being tested at the facility. Thomas Evans Program Manager 304.692.1873 [email protected]
Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) We are investigating the use of reference electrodes to monitor in-situ the performance of the cathode and anode of a solid oxide fuel cell. We are also investigating novel electrode structures with the intention of greatly improving the performance of the SOFC. Our third project focuses on the effects of im-purities (e.g, hydrogen sulfide, phosphine) in fuels that lead to degradation of the anode. Harry Finklea Bennett Dept. of Chemistry 304-293-3435 x6453 [email protected]
Discovery, Design, and Development of Biological Based Molecular Recogni-tion Elements Our research is focused on the a priori development of molecular recognition elements (MREs) based on biological molecules including DNA and proteins. Computational approaches are used to identify key MREs and then redesign them for targets of interest to the pharmaceutical, environmental, and securi-ty sectors. Predictions are validated experimentally and the combined compu-tation-experimental approach is found to significantly speed the development biological-based MREs that are subsequently incorporated into sensing/monitoring devices. Peter M. Gannett Basic Pharmaceutical Sciences [email protected] Software quality assurance, reliability and performance of software and com-puter systems, and cyber security Dr. Goseva-Popstojanova research is focused on assessment and prediction of software and systems quality, with emphasis on empirical studies based on data from large industrial systems (e.g., NASA missions, European Space Agen-cy, Avaya, and Motorola), open source software systems, and controlled ex-periments. Her research on software quality assurance is focused on character-ization of software faults and failures, risk analysis, prediction of components fault-proneness and system reliability and performance. Her research activities related to cyber security include characterization of malicious attacker activi-ties, vulnerability analysis, and system resilience. Katerina Goseva-Popstojanova Robert C. Byrd Associate Professor Lane Department of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering
304-293-9691 [email protected] URL: www.csee.wvu.edu/~katerina
Computer Vision, Image and Video Computing, Biometrics Human identification and human description based on computational analysis of face and body images; (2) Human action recognition from videos; (3) Soft Biometrics: recognizing human age, gender, and ethnicity; and (4) Social com-puting and social network analysis using Computer Vision techniques. Guodong Guo 304-293-9143 [email protected] Understanding the Physics at Material Boundaries While we use optics to understand a variety of material properties in semi-conductors and oxides, we are currently focused on the physics at the bound-ary between magnetic and ferroelectric oxides. The strong magnetoelectric coupling at these interfaces has the potential to electrically control mag-netism for applications in computing, magnetic sensing, energy scavenging and more. Our temperature, field and angle dependent measurements pro-vide information on symmetry, magnetic properties, carrier lifetimes, recom-bination, and interfacial fields. We would be excited to discuss avenues of collaboration. Mikel "Micky" Holcomb [email protected]
Bioanalysis and microscale analysis This research involves microscale analyte separations and analytical systems capable of quickly resolving and quantifying individual components of com-plex mixtures. These analytical tools are used for automated or portable de-tection of human and pathogen biomarkers. Lisa Holland 304-293-3060 x6214 [email protected]
Ballistics, aerodynamic flow control, aerial delivery, and energy capture The team is currently involved in the following research activities: transform-ing projectiles that are ballistically launched, aerodynamic flow control through dynamic surface roughness for separation and transition, develop-ment of covert precision aerial delivery system, and energy capture through wind harvesting. Other areas of interest include wing morphing, novel con-cept design for UAV and MAV design, multifunctional batteries, and biomi-metic insect-scale flight. Wade Huebsch, [email protected] Pat Browning, [email protected] Jay Wilhelm, [email protected] Shanti Hamburg, [email protected] Mridul Gautum, [email protected]
Advanced asset, law enforcement, personnel and wildlife tracking in com-plex environments Dr. Katzner is a wildlife biologist and co-founder of the telemetry company Cellular Tracking Technologies, LLC (www.celltracktech.com). His research uses advance GPS-GSM telemetry systems to track wildlife. Tracking wildlife requires extreme miniaturization and low power telemetry and thus creates opportunities for application to asset, law enforcement and person-nel tracking.
Todd E. Katzner Chief Operating Officer Cellular Tracking Technologies Suite B, 2405 North Center Avenue Somerset, PA 15501 USA 412.983.2986 [email protected] Skype: tkatzner www.celltracktech.com Todd Katzner Research Assistant Professor Division of Forestry and Natural Resources 304.293.7473 Skype: tkatzner www.katznerlab.com
Model-based Inference of Causal Influence Networks in Uncertain Systems Biological systems exhibit intrinsic uncertainty; yet, understanding how the basic unit in these systems (i.e., cells) processes information is a central ques-tion in the medical and biotechnology fields. To address this question, we use
a combination of high content experimental and computational methods to infer how cells process information. Our particular emphasis is on how cancer cells manipulate host immunity; yet, the methods are generalizable to many different fields that exhibit intrinsic uncertainty. David J Klinke II [email protected] Magnetic materials and nanostructures, bioelectronics My research aims to obtain a better understanding of the magnetic properties of materials when they are constrained at the nanometer length scale and interfaces and surfaces dominate their behavior. In another portion of my research, I am interested in developing new electronic devices that incorpo-rate biomolecules as their active components in order to make ultra small, multifunctional sensor and electronics. David Lederman Robert L. Carroll Professor of Physics Robert C. Byrd Professor 304-293-3422 ext. 1494 [email protected] Innovative Immune-Tuning Technology for Decontaminating Traumatic Wounds We have pioneered the development of interleukin 12p70 (IL-12) treatment to tune appropriate immune responses to prevent wound infections. We studied IL-12 because IL-12 plays the central role in cell-mediated immune response and bridges innate and adaptive immunities. We found that exogenous IL-12 restores the host’s resistance (decreased due to trauma) to wound infection, and IL-12 nanocoating and microcapsule technologies are very effective against wound infections in animal studies. Bingyun Li Department of Orthopaedics 304-293-1075 [email protected]
Wastewater Treatment Development of (bio)electrochemical sensors for detecting toxins in potable water, low-power desalination of brackish water using microbial fuel cells, bioelectrochemical treatment for sulfate removal, energy recovery from wastewater for electricity and chemical production. Lance Lin Associate Professor Civil and Environmental Engineering 304-293-9935 [email protected]
Micro/nanomanufacturing, microfluidics, lab on chip, and Biomimetic sys-tems The MICRoChip Lab at WVU is focusing on the development of Microfluidics, Lab on Chip, and advanced micromanufacturing based technologies and their applications in biomedical microdevices for biosensors, cellular bioreactors, and tissue engineering. Our research is including 1) microfluidic lab on chip based biosensor for toxicity detections; 2) bioimpedance bioreactor for nano-toxicity effects on human epithelium and endothelium barrier functions; 3) microvascular vessel assay for drug screening and cancer research; 4) micro-chip based high throughout bioimaging technologies. Yuxin Liu Assistant Professor, Lane Department of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering PI of Microfluidic Integrative Cellular on Chip Laboratory (MICRoChip Lab) 304-433-2805 [email protected]
Collagen-like genes as targets for PCR-based detection of infectious agents
bcl-gene polymorphisms as basis for B. anthracis detection and finger-
printing:
A major challenge to defend against anthrax is the inability to rapidly and accurately distinguish infection by B. anthracis from more benign infec-tions with other members of the B. cereus group. Here, we evaluate se-quence polymorphisms of the Bacillus collagen-like genes, bcl A-E, as a basis for B. anthracis detection and fingerprinting. First, we identified sequence polymorphisms within bclB alleles that allowed for the specific detection of B. anthracis strains by PCR using both purified DNA and spores as templates. Next, we demonstrated that the combined bclA-E PCR products generate markedly different fingerprints, thus creating
unique signatures for B. anthracis strains. Altogether, we present a new diagnostic concept for anthrax detection and fingerprinting. /Provisional Patent Application No. 61/456,940 /
acl genes of the pathogenic mold Aspergillus fumigatus as biomarkers for
early diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis:
A. fumigatus is an etiological agent of invasive aspergillosis, a nosocomial infection that yields a mortality rate of up to 90 percent if undetected in early onset. To date, species-specific biomarkers of exposure are not available in diagnostic assays in the United States. Aspergillus collagen-like genes, designated aclF, were identified in A. fumigatus genome. PCR amplification of the 5’ and 3’ regions of aclF1 gene yielded predicted amplicons in all A. fumigatus samples, but not in the control samples. This pilot study identifies aclF1 gene as a candidate biomarker for spe-cies-specific detection of A. fumigatus infections in humans. /Provisional Patent Application No. 61/626,380 /
Slawomir Lukomski Associate Professor Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cell Biology [email protected]
Bioaerosols and remote air monitoring work My work involves the real time detection of bioaerosols threat and also the design of wireless, stand-alone, environmental monitoring systems. The ob-jective of my research is to place, in the field, low-cost methods of detecting and alerting to the presence of a biological threat in a wide ranging network of monitors. The system is being designed with the option of having other threat detection or monitoring systems able to be immediately inserted into the modular packages for additional data collection capability. Michael McCawley Department of Community Medicine 304-293-8042
Subscale aircraft for flight control system research Civilian applications of unmanned systems Our research program focuses on the development of flight control systems for enhancing operational safety of next generation aircraft through specific schemes allowing the aircraft to cope with a number of different failures — including sensors, actuators and other system failures — and thus avoiding potential loss of control conditions. We are also involved in the development of sub-scale research aircraft with customized packages for a number of civil-ian applications, including agricultural, DOT, law enforcement, and home land security. Marcello Napolitano, Professor Flight Control System Laboratory, Director [email protected] Website: http://fcrl.mae.wvu.edu/
Advanced Film Cooling Geometries to Improve Performance and Durability of Gas Turbine Engines Work is currently being performed for the DOE, but is applicable to both in-dustrial gas turbines and military aircraft gas turbine engines. Experimental and computational studies of advanced film cooling schemes for increasing durability and particulate deposition resistance of turbine airfoils in gas tur-bine engines. Dr. Andrew C. Nix 304-293-0801 [email protected] Utilization of renewable and underutilized materials for energy and biocom-posites
Pre-processing of woody biomass (hot water extraction, torrefaction pre-treatments) to improve their thermochemical properties for further fuel utilization.
Surface characterization of solids (surface area, surface energy (dispersive and acid-base component), cohesion/adhesion) using inverse gas chromatography.
Gloria S. Oporto Assistant Professor Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Design. Division of Forestry and Natural Resources [email protected]
Tissue-specific stem cell and tissue-specific microenvironment ; Tissue engi-neering and tissue regeneration (cartilage, intervertebral disc, etc.); Chon-drogenesis and signal transduction pathway Our lab focuses on tissue regeneration and tissue repair using cutting-edge tissue engineering and stem cell strategies. Currently, our tissues of interest include articular cartilage, bone, intervertebral disc, and meniscus. Engineer-ing a tissue construct is initiated by seeding appropriate cells on biodegrada-ble and biocompatible scaffolds. This step is followed by incubation in an en-vironment with physical and chemical signals (imitating in vivo tissue regener-ation and development) to stimulate construct differentiation into premature tissue for implantation. Adult stem cells, such as synovium-derived stem cells (SDSCs), bone marrow derived stem cells (BMSCs), and adipose stem cells (ASCs), have been demonstrated to play a key role in tissue engineering and regeneration. Adult stem cells have proliferation and multilineage differentia-tion capacities; however, traditional in vitro monolayer culture (2D) makes cells undergo an 'aging' process in which their morphology changes and their proliferative capacity decreases. It is believed that culturing conditions for adult stem cells need to be improved so that adult stem cells can maintain their stemness over time; this is one of the major challenges to be overcome for the advancement of regenerative medicine. Our lab developed a 3D nanostructured expansion system (in vitro stem cell niche) using extracellular matrix (ECM) deposited by adult stem cells. Stem cells expanded on ECM ex-hibited enhanced proliferation and chondrogenic differentiation capacities. Interestingly, this 3D expansion system also works for primary cells, such as articular chondrocytes and nucleus pulposus cells. Understanding the under-lying mechanism and identifying the key component(s) responsible for this rejuvenation effect is important for this technique to be applicable in clinical regenerative medicine. Despite the fact that many mysteries still need to be solved, in vitro reconstruction of the stem cell niche may play a critical role in the next generation of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Ming Pei Associate Professor Department of Orthopaedics P: 304-293-1072 F: 304-293-7070 [email protected]
Modeling, simulation, and control of aerospace systems at normal and ab-normal conditions, fixed wing, rotary wing, manned and unmanned aircraft
Development of advanced intelligent flight control laws;
Autonomous flight algorithms (path planning, trajectory generation, and
trajectory tracking);
Fault tolerant control laws, failure detection, identification, evaluation, and accommodation;
Artificial intelligence techniques (genetic algorithms, fuzzy logic, artificial neural networks, artificial immune systems) for design, optimization, modeling; and
Control of aerospace vehicles and sub-systems.
Mario Perhinschi [email protected] Human Recognition Using Biometric and Biographic Cues
We are designing methods for identifying humans in challenging environ-ments based on their face, fingerprint and iris.
We are developing methods to protect the biometric data of subjects that are stored in a central database.
We are implementing methods to quickly search a large multimodal bio-metric database in order to identify a suspect.
Arun Ross [email protected]
Multi-Functional and Energy Ceramics Dr. Sabolsky's research focuses on the development of electroceramics, elec-tromechanical sensors, electrochemical sensors, reforming catalyst, battery materials, solid-oxide and direct-carbon fuel cells, and separation mem-branes. This research includes the synthesis and electrical testing of complex oxide powders, ceramic nanomaterials, and novel ceramic monolithic struc-tures to improve performance. Edward M. Sabolsky Assistant Professor Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering 304-293-3272 [email protected] Research and development of components and devices used in flexible op-toelectronic, energy harvesting and gas sensing applications My research is focusing on the development and characterization of materi-als, such as metal oxides, and the fabrication of novel devices used for gas sensing in confined spaces, multi-source energy harvesting from tribological
processes and solid-state lighting applications. Of particular interest is the integration of such devices on flexible platforms using low-cost methods and their resulting structural integrity. Konstantinos (Kostas) Sierros 304-293-3420 [email protected]
Thermo-chemical conversion of coal-biomass for liquid fuel, hybrid fuel, and electricity production My research focuses on coal-biomass liquefaction to produce liquid fuels, coal-biomass co-processing to produce low carbon hybrid fuels, and small-scale biomass gasification to produce electricity and bio-char. Kaushlendra Singh [email protected] Sensor Development using Molecular Recognition Elements Molecular recognition elements are small pieces of single-stranded DNA or antibody fragments. They bind a target (explosives, pesticides, bio-warfare agents, food poisoning agents, and cancer cells to name a few) with high affinity and specificity. They are inexpensive to produce and are easily incor-porated into optical and electrochemical sensors. Letha J. Sooter 304.293.9218 (alternate) [email protected] (preferred)
Spatial Analysis of Natural Resources Dr. Strager specializes in applying geospatial technologies and performing spatial analysis on natural resource data. He is the lead developer on many decision support systems that enable users to evaluate alternative management scenarios for watershed analysis, sustainable forestry, wildlife modeling and landscape conservation. Michael P. Strager Associate Professor 304-293-6463 [email protected]
Heterogeneous Wireless Sensor Networks for ISR applications: nano sen-sors, hardware, communications, signal processing, control, and large scale simulations. A multidisciplinary group consisting of 9 faculty members from CSEE and MAE departments is working on various aspects of distributed wireless sensor net-works. The collaborative work involves (1) designing novel nano sensors such as magnetometers, motion detectors, nonorganic and organic chemical sen-sors (Ed Sabolsky and David Graham), (2) assembling a low power heteroge-neous sensor network and developing middleware services (Vinod Kulathu-mani), (3) designing new distributed protocols for wireless communications in challenging environments (Daryl Reynolds, Brian Woerner, and Matthew Valenti), (4) developing new distributed data coding schemes for various in-ference problems, estimation, detection and tracking (Xin Li and Natalia Schmid), (5) designing new distributed control protocols (Jignesh Solanki) and (6) implementing large scale simulations of communications networks for a variety applications (Matthew Valenti). Brian Woerner [email protected]
1. Chemical Sensors and Biosensors Our current work is focused on electrochemical sensors, fluorescent sensors and SPR-enhanced Raman sensors, which are used to detect environmental toxins (heavy metals, pathogens and biological warfare agents) and cancer biomarkers. 2. Photocatalysts and Photoelectrochemical Sensors We are developing photocatalysts and photoelectrochemical cells for solar energy utilization (hydrogen generation and carbon dioxide conversion) and environmental remediation (removal of toxins and disinfection of bacteria) 3. Supercapcitors and solid oxide fuel cells We are developing supercapacitors with high energy density and high specific power density at fast charge-discharge rate. We strive to improve the perfor-mance of the cathode of solid oxide fuel cells by developing new materials and/or optimization of electrode architecture/microstructure. We intend to reduce the operating temperature of SOFCs to intermediate temperature range (500-750 o C). Nianqiang (Nick) Wu Associate Professor Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering TEL: 304-293-3326 FAX: 304-293-6689 [email protected]
Stem cell-based systems for therapeutic and pharmaceutical applications My research focus has been on the development of stem cell-based systems for therapeutic and pharmaceutical applications. Currently, my lab is working on developing polymer micro-/nanoengineering technology to produce a modular cell culture platform with well-defined micro-/nanotopographies, substrate elasticity, and flow-induced mechanical forces in a biomimetic man-ner, which is expected to contribute to a delineation of the molecular mecha-nisms by which stem cells develop into lineage specific end stage cells for long-term stem cell growth and differentiation. This platform is not only cru-cial to the elucidation of many fundamental biological processes, but will also be highly beneficial for stem cell therapy and drug testing and discovery. Yong Yang Assistant Professor Chemical Engineering Department College of Engineering and Mineral Resources Tel: (304) 293-0567 Fax: (304) 293-4139
Remote Sensing: sensor integration, feature extraction, anomaly detection Remote sensing research has focused on information extraction from sensors ranging from commercial satellite sources, to high-resolution hyperspectral data and image / Lidar integration. Projects have ranged from natural land-scape characterization and detection of change in urban environments to sensing specific features and chemicals in the natural environment. Also working with high-fidelity 3D visualization integrating disparate data types and qualities. Charles B. Yuill – Associate Professor Division of Resource Management Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Design Mobile: 304 680 3735 Office: 304 293 5674 [email protected] Network Structure and Graph Data Analysis Collaborating with a group of faculty in various disciplines, Prof. Zhang is in-terested in developing computational tools and mathematical theory for fea-ture detection, data analysis for graphs and networks. His group has recently published a series of papers (in PNAS, Evolutionary Bioinformatics, Pattern Recognition Letters, ACM Transactions, etc.). Dr. C.-Q. Zhang, Eberly Professor of Applied Mathematics 304-293-2014 ext. 2332 [email protected]
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