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Cornell University


Non-toxic anti-fouling coating for ships

Researchers at Cornell University have developed a non-toxic paint that effectively prevents marine fouling by creating a self-cleaning surface. The hydrophilic and hydrophobic materials, tested by the ONR and other collaborators, deny bacteria a compatible surface to grow on, reducing fouling.

Much oil remains to be tapped below Gulf of Mexico

A study has identified a vast network of subsurface streams and ponds in the northern Gulf of Mexico basin that are believed to contain significant amounts of untapped oil and gas. The discovery, made by Cornell University professor Lawrence M. Cathles, estimates that these reserves could be as large as those found in the North Sea.

Porous ceramic can sort proteins magnetically

Researchers at Cornell University have developed a method to incorporate iron oxide particles into porous ceramic structures, enabling size exclusion and magnetic interactions. This enables the separation of single proteins from thousands found in blood serum, with potential applications in catalytic conversion.

SourceCornell University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMar 24, 2003

Biodegradable plastic that imitates bacteria

Cornell researchers have developed a highly efficient chemical route to produce the biodegradable polymer poly(beta-hydroxybutyrate), which has potential applications in various industries. The discovery is a significant breakthrough in creating sustainable materials, with the potential to replace traditional plastics.

$1.4 million NSF grant to study turbulent flows

A team of Cornell physicists and engineers are developing an instrument that can track hundreds of particles simultaneously, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of turbulent flows. The technology has the potential to improve climate models and predict how pollutants disperse in air or water.

Laser-pulse technique could aid drug design

A new laser-based technique could aid in drug design and testing for various neurological disorders, enabling the discovery of compounds to block cocaine poisoning effects. The technique allows researchers to study signal transmission between cells and identify potential therapeutic agents.

'Selfish routing' slows the Internet

A new study by Cornell University researchers finds that selfish routing on the Internet can slow down data transfer by up to one and one-third times what could be achieved by an ideal system. To combat this, they suggest routers consider not only the least congested route but also its impact on the network when sending information.

Work stress can affect how lower-income families eat

A study by Cornell University found that work stress significantly impacts the food choices of low- and middle-income adults, particularly women with children. The research highlights the need for workplace solutions, such as healthy food options and self-care strategies, to address this issue.

SourceCornell University·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateFeb 12, 2003

Single molecules observed

Researchers developed a microchip with light-impeding holes to observe individual enzymes interacting with other molecules. This technique enables detailed analysis of fluctuations and variability in enzyme behavior, crucial for understanding molecular movement and predicting less predictable behavior.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience·DateJan 30, 2003

How acrylamide might be formed in starch-rich foods

Cornell University professor Bruce Ganem proposes an alternative chemical pathway for acrylamide formation in fried or baked foods. He suggests that enzymatic decarboxylation of asparagine is the key step in this process, leading to the loss of carbon dioxide and the formation of acrylamide.

SourceCornell University·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateDec 19, 2002

Sugar gene helps rice tolerate drought, salt, cold

Cornell researchers introduce a trehalose-enhancement gene into Indica rice varieties, demonstrating stress tolerance and increased productivity. The transgenic plants also exhibit improved photosynthesis and nutrient utilization, making them more robust under various environmental stresses.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 25, 2002

Square Kilometer Array gets NSF design grant

The NSF has awarded a design grant for the Square Kilometer Array (SKA) telescope, which aims to be the largest scientific instrument ever built. The U.S. consortium, led by Cornell University, will investigate feed antennas and low-temperature receivers, as well as address radio frequency interference issues.

Internet access to nature sounds and bird videos

Cornell University's Macaulay Library has gained access to digital sound recordings and high-definition video clips, enabling researchers, conservationists, and citizen-scientists to support ornithology projects. The new system provides streaming capabilities for sounds and video over the Internet and maintains all digital assets.

Airport noise impairs long-term memory and reading

A study published in Psychological Science found that German children exposed to airport noise showed significant declines in reading and memory abilities. However, these effects were reversible once the local airport closed, indicating that exposure to chronic noise can have serious health and learning impacts on children.

SourceCornell University·JournalPsychological Science·DateOct 7, 2002

Caregiving for spouse prompts women to retire earlier

A new study by Cornell University finds that women who care for spouses are more likely to retire earlier, while men who are caregivers delay their retirement. The study, which analyzed data from over 700 employees and retirees, highlights the significant impact of caregiving on retirement decisions.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Family Issues·DateOct 4, 2002

U.S. cities have 10 more hot nights a year than 40 years ago

A study by Cornell University researchers found that urban areas in the US now have an average of 10 more very warm nights a year than rural areas, which has significant implications for heat problems. The growth was highest on the East Coast, with cities like Miami and Los Angeles showing the most extreme temperature trends.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Climate·DateSep 26, 2002

DNA separation by entropic force offers better resolution

Researchers at Cornell University have developed a DNA separation method using entropic force, which offers better resolution than traditional methods. The new technique uses a nanofabricated device to separate DNA strands of different lengths, with the potential to improve genetic analysis and gene expression studies.

SourceCornell University·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateSep 23, 2002

Examining Kenyan agriculture and poverty structure

A Cornell University project explores the complex relationship between Kenyan small farmers, their communities, and the land they depend on. The research highlights the devastating effects of soil degradation, leading to reduced crop productivity and increased poverty. Understanding social and cultural factors is crucial in addressing ...

Sex-pheromone link to insect evolution

Researchers at Cornell University discovered a previously undetected gene that regulates insect sex-pheromone production, leading to rapid evolution of chemical systems and new species emergence. The delta-14 gene allows females to change their pheromone components, attracting only one male out of 200 with the same response.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 10, 2002

Promoting marriage may not benefit all children

A recent study published in Child Development found that black children in single-parent households do as well as those in two-parent homes in terms of math scores and delinquency. The study suggests that policies promoting marriage may have little effect on black children, unlike white children

SourceCornell University·JournalChild Development·DateSep 9, 2002

Reducing side effects of retinoic acid cancer treatment

A Cornell University biochemist has developed a strategy to make tumor cells more sensitive to retinoic acid, reducing required doses and enhancing its anticancer activity. By introducing CRABP-II, a naturally occurring protein, researchers can boost RA's ability to inhibit breast cancer cell proliferation.

SourceCornell University·JournalMolecular and Cellular Biology·DateAug 13, 2002