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Cornell University


Consumers sour on milk exposed to LED light

Exposure to LED light for just four hours can make milk taste like cardboard, while older milk remains at high quality for two weeks when shielded from LED exposure. Consumers overwhelmingly prefer older, fresh-looking milk over newer, LED-exposed milk.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Dairy Science·DateJun 9, 2016

Maize genome 'dark matter' discovery a boon for breeders

Researchers at Cornell University and Florida State University identified a tiny percentage of regulatory DNA in the maize genome that accounts for roughly half of the variation in observable traits found in corn. This discovery enables breeders to focus on these areas for more efficient plant breeding.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 16, 2016

Don't retweet if you want to remember

Experiments at Cornell University and Beijing University found that retweeting creates cognitive overload, leading to poor comprehension and recall of information. The study suggests that web interfaces should be designed to promote rather than interfere with cognitive processing.

SourceCornell University·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·DateApr 29, 2016

Junk-food junkies go healthy when rewarded

Researchers at Cornell University found that consumers who have poor eating habits benefit most from long-term reward incentives for healthy food choices. In contrast, healthy eaters are more likely to purchase less healthy items when offered price breaks.

SourceCornell University·JournalCornell Hospitality Quarterly·DateApr 28, 2016

Beyond milkweed: Monarchs face habitat, nectar threats

A new Cornell University study reveals that monarch butterflies' population decline is driven by a lack of autumnal nectar sources, weather, and habitat fragmentation. Despite initial population bounce-backs, the scientists found consistent declines at Mexico's overwintering sites, which are six times larger than two years ago.

SourceCornell University·JournalOikos·DateApr 22, 2016

Some frogs are adapting to deadly pathogen

Researchers found that some frogs in Arizona are rapidly adapting to the fungal pathogen Batrachochrytrium dendrobatridis, which causes chytridiomycosis. The study identified a specific genetic variant, allele Q, that confers immunity to the disease, and showed that these variants were being rapidly inherited and evolving.

Protein SIRT5 linked to healthy heart function

A new study by Cornell University researchers identifies protein SIRT5 as a key player in maintaining healthy heart function. The study found that SIRT5 can remove harmful protein modifications, allowing the heart to burn fatty acids more efficiently. This discovery could lead to new therapies for cardiomyopathy and improved lifespan.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 7, 2016

Primate evolution in the fast lane

Researchers at Cornell University and Bar-Ilan University discovered a novel mechanism for mutation in primates triggered by the APOBEC family of virus-fighting enzymes. These enzymes can rapidly generate large changes in genes through 'friendly fire' events, which may have been passed on to subsequent generations.

SourceCornell University·JournalGenome Research·DateApr 7, 2016

Eating green could be in your genes

A genetic variation, known as an allele, has been found in populations that have historically favored vegetarian diets, such as in India and parts of East Asia. This adaptation allows these individuals to efficiently process omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which is essential for early brain development and controlling inflammation.

SourceCornell University·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateMar 29, 2016

Malaria family tree has bird roots

A recent study has identified malaria's origins in bird hosts, with the parasite then spreading to bats and other mammals before reaching humans. The research, led by Cornell University's Holly Lutz, provides a comprehensive analysis of malaria's genetic code, offering insights into its adaptability and evolution.

SourceCornell University·JournalMolecular Phylogenetics and Evolution·DateMar 24, 2016

Change in mosquito mating may control Zika virus

New Cornell research reveals genetic cues from male mosquitoes affect female reproductive tract gene expression, influencing blood feeding, egg development, and immune defense. This study aims to develop novel strategies for controlling mosquito populations to fight diseases like Zika virus.

SourceCornell University·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateMar 11, 2016

Climate change less politicized among minority groups

A recent study by Cornell University researchers reveals that climate change attitudes are less politicized among minority groups compared to white respondents. Non-whites were found to care as much about the environment as whites, yet are underrepresented in addressing the issue due to social barriers and socioeconomic realities.

SourceCornell University·JournalClimatic Change·DateMar 10, 2016

Explosive start not needed for fast radio bursts

A team of astronomers has found evidence of repeated fast radio bursts (FRBs) originating from the same location in the sky, contradicting the long-held assumption that these bursts are isolated events. This discovery rules out entire classes of theoretical models and suggests that the burst source can recharge in minutes.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature·DateMar 2, 2016

Quantum dot solids: This generation's silicon wafer?

A team of Cornell researchers has developed two-dimensional superstructures out of single-crystal building blocks, showcasing atomic coherence and superior electrical properties. The discovery has potential applications in energy absorption and light emission, but challenges remain to further improve the results.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Materials·DateFeb 25, 2016

Disease, warming oceans rock lobster and sea star populations

Two new studies by Cornell University researchers link warming ocean temperatures to increased disease outbreaks in marine organisms, including lobsters and sea stars. The findings highlight the need for advanced warning systems to prevent disease outbreaks and protect economically important species.

SourceCornell University·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London·DateFeb 16, 2016

Flu tackles Super Bowl fans

Researchers at Cornell University found a significant spike in flu-related deaths among people above 65 in areas with NFL teams that reached the Super Bowl. The study suggests disease transmission is driven by increased socialization and cramped spaces.

SourceCornell University·JournalAmerican Journal of Health Economics·DateFeb 2, 2016

Breaking bread with colleagues boosts productivity

A recent study by Cornell University found that firefighter platoons who eat meals together have better group job performance compared to those who dine solo. This phenomenon is attributed to the social bonding and intimacy that comes with sharing meals, which spills over into improved work performance.

SourceCornell University·JournalHuman Performance·DateDec 7, 2015