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Cornell University


NSF grant to grow methane-producing microbes in lab

Researchers at Cornell University are growing methanogens and other microbes in a laboratory using conditions similar to acidic wetlands. The goal is to understand how these microorganisms function and potentially apply this knowledge to bioengineering, such as bioremediation of contaminated sites or controlled methane production.

Canis Majoris has sand and whiskers in its eyes

Researchers using the European Space Agency's Infrared Space Observatory have found that VY Canis Majoris' smoky shroud consists of tiny particles made up of iron whiskers and amorphous silicates. The study provides new insights into the star's massive outflow, which is driven by intense pressure from its light output.

SourceCornell University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJan 10, 2002

Archaeologists rewrite timeline of Bronze and Iron Ages

Researchers from Cornell University and the University of Reading have given a new kind of precision to the timeline of the Bronze and Iron Ages in the Aegean and Near East. The study, published in Science, dates certain artifacts from around 740 B.C., placing an early appearance of the alphabet outside Phoenicia at this time.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience·DateDec 19, 2001

Tracking path of virulent bacteria via the web

Cornell students developed a web-based software and database to track bacterial strain characteristics and visualize molecular subtypes, allowing researchers to quickly analyze outbreaks and epidemics. The new tool reduces manual comparisons from days to minutes, aiding scientists in tracking virulent bacteria.

Living amid green space is highly beneficial to children

A Cornell University study found that living in housing with more green spaces boosts a child's attention capabilities and improves their mental health. The research suggests that the natural environment plays a significant role in a child's well-being, and simple interventions like preserving trees or planting new ones could have a po...

SourceCornell University·JournalEnvironmental Psychology and Nonverbal Behavior·DateDec 4, 2001

Poor or immobile elderly may not eat well this holiday

A study by Cornell University researchers found that factors like poverty, low education, and social isolation are linked to inadequate purchasing power for a nutritious diet. The research also reveals that functional impairments significantly increase the risk of food insecurity among elderly individuals.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateNov 28, 2001

Fusion spin-off makes high-res images of tiny objects

Researchers at Cornell University's Laboratory of Plasma Studies have developed a new X-pinch imaging technique that produces extremely high-resolution images of minute objects. The technique, which uses powerful electrical currents to create plasma, has been used to image objects as small as house fly hairs and even living ants.

Medical FSAs used mostly by higher-end workers

A study by Cornell University researchers found that only 19% of single employees used Medical FSAs, while 33% of those with dependents participated. Higher education significantly boosted FSA participation among singles and families alike. Tax rates were also predictive of participation.

SourceCornell University·JournalMedical Care·DateOct 15, 2001

Cell-cell communication in the flower is unlocked

Researchers have discovered how plants' self-incompatibility works on a molecular level, revealing highly specific lock-and-key interactions between pollen and stigma. This breakthrough could enable genetic engineers to short-circuit reproduction and increase genetic variability in crops like tomatoes and rice.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience·DateSep 6, 2001

Welfare benefits may not keep people healthy

An international study found that unemployed individuals who received welfare-type benefits reported negative health effects, while those with unemployment insurance payments did not. This study suggests that need-based benefits like welfare are ineffective in maintaining the health of the unemployed.

SourceCornell University·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateSep 4, 2001

DOE contract to study combustion chemistry

Professor Terrill Cool's research uses flame-sampling photoionization mass spectrometry to detect key-reaction intermediates in laboratory flames. The new facility will produce average photon fluxes 100 times larger than current sources, enabling more accurate predictive models of combustion kinetics.

Impact of China trade on jobs, investment

A federally funded study reveals that China trade has led to massive job shifts, with over 34,900 jobs lost in the US and stagnating wages. The study also shows that large companies are targeting low-cost markets in China and abroad, contrary to expectations of rising wages and living standards.

Exploring the frontier of ultra-small electronics

Two Cornell University researchers are working on separate projects to develop new devices that could lead to huge increases in data storage and processing speed. George Malliaras is investigating the electrical properties of individual molecules, while Robert Buhrman is studying spin manipulation and quantum manipulation.

Chemists predict silver-flourine superconductivity

Researchers at Cornell University propose that silver-flourine compounds could exhibit high-temperature superconductivity, building on similarities to oxocuprates. Theoretical predictions are supported by detailed calculations and chemical reasoning, but experimental production will be challenging.

SourceCornell University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateAug 3, 2001

Brain-development timeline for mammalian species

A new mathematical model developed by Cornell University researchers predicts brain development milestones in mammals, including humans. The model accurately predicted post-conception time of neural events in rats, mice, and monkeys, but revealed discrepancies for human infants and primates.

SourceCornell University·JournalNeuroscience·DateJul 10, 2001

Americans, Chinese have different childhood memories

A Cornell University developmental psychologist found that American adults and preschool children remember experiences differently from indigenous Chinese. Americans report lengthy, emotionally elaborate memories focusing on the self, whereas Chinese tend to give brief accounts of general routine events centered on collective activitie...

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateJun 26, 2001