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Cornell University


Babies' babbling betters brains, language

New research shows that babies' babbling has a significant impact on their language development, with mothers responding more often to speech-like sounds. The study found that infants who babble more effectively learn words and vocabulary earlier in life, highlighting the importance of social feedback in language acquisition.

SourceCornell University·JournalDevelopmental Science·DateJan 18, 2018

Physicists build muscle for shape-changing, cell-sized robots

Researchers have developed a robot exoskeleton that can rapidly change its shape in response to chemical or thermal changes, enabling the creation of autonomous micron-scale machines. The graphene-based bimorph technology allows for the production of tiny robots with electronic, photonic and chemical payloads.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 3, 2018

Climate scientists study the odds of a US megadrought

Researchers developed a statistical model to understand the frequency and severity of megadroughts in the western US. They analyzed tree ring evidence from 800 to 1300 A.D. and found that megadroughts occur naturally, with some events potentially linked to solar activity or other non-climatic factors.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Climate·DateDec 14, 2017

Typhoid fever toxin has a sweet tooth

A new study found that Salmonella typhi toxin targets specific cells expressing multiantennal glycan receptors, which could lead to the development of targeted treatments for typhoid fever. The research also highlights the potential for sugar-based therapeutics to combat antibiotic-resistant diseases.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Microbiology·DateDec 11, 2017

People with disabilities more likely to be arrested

Research at Cornell University found that people with disabilities are nearly 44% more likely to be arrested by age 28 compared to those without disabilities. Black men with disabilities face a disproportionately high risk of arrest, highlighting the need for police training and healthcare improvements.

SourceCornell University·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateNov 30, 2017

Discrimination more likely when resources are scarce

A study by Cornell University psychologist Amy Krosch found that when resources are scarce, prejudiced individuals discriminate more against black recipients than white recipients. Egalitarian participants, on the other hand, tend to give more funding to protect racial minority group members.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateOct 4, 2017

Engineering team images tiny quasicrystals as they form

Researchers have successfully formed and imaged tiny quasicrystals using silica nanoparticles, revealing a non-periodic yet ordered structure. The team used transmission electron microscopy to capture the growth process, which was influenced by varying concentrations of chemical compounds and mechanical stirring.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 17, 2017

Aye group discovers avenue for precision cancer treatment

A study published in Cell Chemical Biology discovered a novel chemical procedure called T-REX that can selectively target cancer cells with specific mutations, leading to more favorable treatment outcomes. The researchers found that certain enzymes' redox-specific processes could be harnessed for targeted drug design.

SourceCornell University·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateAug 1, 2017