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Cornell University


New tool uses UV light to control inflammation

Researchers at Cornell University developed a chemical tool that controls inflammation using UV light, allowing for targeted therapy with minimal side effects. The method has potential applications in treating inflammatory diseases such as asthma and rheumatoid arthritis.

SourceCornell University·JournalChemical Science·DateDec 2, 2016

Fast, efficient sperm tails inspire nanobiotechnology

Scientists at Cornell University developed a system where enzymes are attached to nanoparticles to mimic the efficient energy-producing mechanism of sperm tails. The tethered enzyme system processes glucose to lactate more efficiently than free-floating enzymes, with potential applications in powering devices that carry out various jobs.

SourceCornell University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateDec 2, 2016

When judging other people, first impressions last

A Cornell University study found that first impressions formed from photographs predicted how people felt and thought about the person after a live interaction. Participants consistently evaluated the same person differently after meeting in person compared to their initial impression.

SourceCornell University·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateNov 28, 2016

Moral values influence level of climate change action

A new study by Cornell University researchers reveals that moral values like compassion, fairness, and purity influence individuals' willingness to take climate change action. The findings suggest that both liberals and conservatives value these moral principles, with compassion and fairness being the strongest predictors of action.

SourceCornell University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 16, 2016

Pest control: Wicked weeds may be agricultural angels

A study by Cornell University researchers suggests that certain weeds, like milkweed, can be beneficial to crops and the environment. By incorporating these weeds into agricultural systems, farmers may reduce their reliance on pesticides and herbicides, while also supporting biodiversity and pollinator health.

SourceCornell University·JournalWeed Science·DateNov 11, 2016

Study challenges model of Alzheimer's disease progression

Researchers challenge the widely held belief that Alzheimer's disease originates in the temporal lobe by identifying the basal forebrain region as a critical area of degeneration. The study shows that degeneration in this region predicts subsequent spread to other brain areas, opening new avenues for detection and intervention.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 4, 2016

Soda tax falls flat

A new study by Cornell University economist John Cawley found that the Berkeley soda tax resulted in price increases of less than expected, indicating consumer sensitivity. The study also showed that proximity to untaxed rival stores affects the pass-through of taxes to consumers.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Policy Analysis and Management·DateNov 3, 2016

Being more like men does not help women in STEM careers

A recent study published in Social Science Research found that women with STEM degrees who delayed marriage and family were not more likely to secure STEM employment than those who anticipated having children. The research, led by Cornell University demographer Sharon Sassler, analyzed data from the 1979 National Longitudinal Surveys o...

SourceCornell University·JournalSocial Science Research·DateNov 2, 2016

Study shows link between mitochondrial DNA and autism

Researchers at Cornell University have confirmed a genetic link between mitochondrial DNA and autism spectrum disorder in children. The study found that autistic children had more than twice as many harmful mtDNA mutations compared to their non-autistic siblings. This finding may lead to better diagnosis and treatment of children with ...

SourceCornell University·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateOct 31, 2016

Colorado River's dead clams tell tales of carbon emission

The Colorado River delta's annual carbon cycle has changed dramatically due to poor water management, with fossil clam shells revealing vast amounts of carbon being added to the atmosphere. The reduced carbon emissions at the delta are vastly outweighed by the carbon emissions from transporting water to cities and farms.

SourceCornell University·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateOct 28, 2016

New biochar model scrubs CO2 from the atmosphere

A new biochar model suggests using a bioenergy-biochar system to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, potentially becoming a viable option for climate change mitigation. This approach involves charring organic material and producing carbon-sequestering biochar that can be used as fertilizer and improve crop production.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 28, 2016

Music at work increases cooperation, teamwork

A pair of lab experiments by Cornell University researchers found that happy music increases cooperative behavior among team members. Contributions to the group's value were approximately one-third higher when upbeat songs were played compared to less pleasant music.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Organizational Behavior·DateAug 23, 2016

Warbler genomes look to be 99.97 percent alike

New research reveals that blue-winged and golden-winged warblers are almost identical genetically, with only six regions showing strong differences. The study suggests that conservation efforts should focus on preserving habitat for both species rather than worrying about hybridization.

SourceCornell University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 23, 2016

At work, hierarchies draw narcissist job hunters

Research by Emily M. Zitek and Alexander H. Jordan found that narcissistic individuals are more likely to support hierarchies when they can rise through the ranks or when positions are open. In contrast, they were less likely to support a hierarchy without clear career advancement opportunities.

SourceCornell University·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateAug 16, 2016

Dietary compound linked to heart disease may be influenced by gut microbiome

A recent Cornell University study suggests that circulating trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) may be a biomarker of differences in the gut microbiome rather than a cause of heart disease. Researchers found that healthy men with elevated TMAO levels after consuming eggs and beef also had high counts of firmicutes, a type of bacteria that co...

SourceCornell University·JournalMolecular Nutrition & Food Research·DateAug 11, 2016

Vineyard cover crops reduce expense, save environment

Research by Cornell University reveals that planting cover crops beneath grapevines reduces nitrogen leaching, decreases dissolved organic carbon, and lowers neonicotinoid insecticide residues. This environmentally sustainable approach also saves vineyards money by minimizing herbicide use.

SourceCornell University·JournalAmerican Journal of Enology and Viticulture·DateJul 26, 2016

Here's why run-down schools trigger low test scores

A Cornell University study found that run-down schools contribute significantly to low test scores and poor academic achievement, accounting for 70% of the issue. Students attending such schools are more likely to miss classes and exhibit high absenteeism, hindering their ability to learn.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Environmental Psychology·DateJul 21, 2016

Blue-collar training in high school leaves women behind

Research by Cornell University finds that high school training for blue-collar jobs penalizes women in the labor market, reducing their odds of enrolling in college and earning comparable wages. Men in these communities benefit from vocational courses and higher rates of employment, but women face significant disparities.

SourceCornell University·JournalAmerican Sociological Review·DateJun 29, 2016

How the butterfly got its spots

By editing just one or two genes, Cornell University researchers have altered the patterns on a butterfly's wings, shedding light on their evolution and potential applications. The study found that the distal-less gene plays a crucial role in shaping multiple body parts, including eyespots.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 15, 2016