Employing agricultural technology can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by generating net negative emissions, with methods including biochar, agroforestry, and sustainable seafood harvesting. The most effective way to reduce emissions is through soil modifications, agroforestry, and hydrogen-powered fertilizer production.
Fruit fly research suggests visual system is involved in regulating social behaviors, which could have implications for understanding human psychiatric conditions such as autism and schizophrenia. Altering GABA signaling in the brain affects social inhibitions, leading to increased courtship behavior in males.
Researchers from Cornell University and University of Wisconsin-Madison developed a new audio technique to estimate the Spotted Owl population across the entire Sierra Nevada ecosystem. The analysis yielded an estimated 2,218 to 2,328 adult owls on federally managed lands, providing critical conservation baseline.
Researchers have confirmed the presence of chromium hydride in the atmosphere of hot Jupiter exoplanet WASP-31b using high-resolution spectral observations. This detection opens the possibility of using chromium hydride as a 'thermometer' to determine the temperature and other characteristics of exoplanets.
A new climate modeling method called ensemble boosting can simulate a large set of extreme but plausible heat waves, providing a worst-case scenario for planning and preparation. This method helps prepare for the potential loss of tens of thousands of lives in extreme heat waves.
A study by Cornell University researchers found that current methods for measuring malaria parasite multiplication rates vastly overestimate the actual rates, which has significant implications for vaccine efficacy and understanding of drug resistance.
A Cornell research team has developed a new way to design complex microscale machines, one that draws inspiration from the operation of proteins and hummingbird beaks. The lead author is Itay Griniasty, who led the development of an algorithm to simplify the search for magnetic patterns that spur the desired bifurcation.
A national survey found that few US adults recognize climate change has a disproportionate impact on socially and economically disadvantaged groups. Despite broad scientific consensus, many people believe climate change affects all groups equally or do not perceive its impacts at all.
Scientists developed a novel Double Machine Learning approach to model bird population trends, removing confounding factors caused by changing human behavior. The result is detailed trend maps for each species down to an eight-mile radius, providing valuable insights for local conservation efforts.
A study of 379 cities across 6 continents found that city-dwelling organisms have evolved smaller body sizes, diverse diets, and changes in reproduction and foraging strategies. The 'urban trait syndrome' affects different species groups, such as birds, beetles, and reptiles, with varying levels of mobility and dietary adaptations.
Researchers identified a mechanism regulating tumor growth in the skeleton, which decreases with age and can result from hormonal changes or chemotherapy. Mineralization of bone matrix reduces tumor cell growth and promotes genes associated with better patient prognosis.
Geoscientists at Cornell University have discovered that gaseous carbon dioxide can trigger explosive eruptions in basaltic volcanoes. The research uses a new model to suggest that magma comes directly from the mantle, stored tens of kilometers below Earth's surface.
Researchers discovered that electrons flow through the bulk of a special type of insulator, rather than at the edges, using magnetic imaging. This finding provides new insights into electron behavior in quantum Hall insulators and informs the development of topological materials for next-generation quantum devices.
A Cornell University study found that encouraging fact-checking on Reddit led to a drop in story rank by an average of minus-25 spots, causing stories to be missed by readers. The research suggests that collective efforts to improve information environments can influence algorithmic recommendations.
A new study suggests that resume padding, while bad for individuals, can have a positive effect on society. Researchers found that the potential misrepresentation of education levels can reduce investment in education and lead to lower social welfare distortions.
Researchers used NLP tools to analyze court transcripts and found significant differences in questioning tactics for Black and white jurors, indicating attempts to shape responses. The study proves that AI can identify biased jury selection, paving the way for real-time monitoring and diversifying juries.
Researchers at Cornell University have developed a multimodal platform to image solar-powered microbes, enabling the study of energy conversion pathways and the potential for improving efficiency. The platform revealed the functional roles of hydrogenases in driving CO2 fixation and electron transport.
Researchers at Cornell University have discovered a mutation in the MdLAZY1A gene responsible for the 'weeping' growth pattern in apple trees. This finding could lead to more productive and labor-saving orchards by allowing branches to grow downwards, thereby increasing resource allocation towards reproductive growth.
Cornell University researchers found that unused solar, wind, and hydroelectric power in the US could support the exponential growth of NFT transactions. The study suggests that harnessing this excess energy could reduce carbon emissions from NFT processing, which currently reach an equivalent of 0.37 megatons of CO2 per year.
Researchers at Cornell University have discovered and visualized a crystalline yet superconducting state in Uranium Ditelluride (UTe2), a previously unknown state of topological quantum matter. This 'spin-triplet electron-pair crystal' exhibits a new form of electronic quantum matter called Cooper-pair density waves.
Researchers at Cornell University developed a new method that uses machine learning to visualize nanotextures in thin-film materials. This technique overcomes the challenge of preserving the sample, allowing for dynamic study of thin films and discovery of new morphologies.
A Cornell University study found that e-cigarette warning labels with unclear language reduce risk perceptions among adults trying to quit smoking. The researchers tested 17 different warning statements on focus groups and found that specific risks were generally accepted, but uncertain language was confusing.
Research from Cornell University estimates that wildfire smoke can cause between 4,000 and 9,000 premature deaths and cost between $36 to $82 billion per year in the United States. Metropolitan regions near fire sources are likely to experience a large health burden and economic loss.
A newly discovered exoplanet, LP 890-9c, is providing important insights into conditions at the inner edge of a star's habitable zone. The team's models detail differences in chemical signatures generated by rocky planets near this boundary, based on variables including size, mass, and surface temperature.
A new study led by Cornell University's Wendy Erb found that orangutan vocal changes can be used to assess their health, as they alter their frequency and quality of sounds in response to wildfire smoke. This innovative method could help monitor the endangered species' well-being without putting them at risk.
Researchers have identified 4,303 genetic variants with a substantial role in modern humans, influencing 47 distinct traits such as natural immune resistance to diseases. The study used computational genetic tools to analyze over 235,000 genetic variants likely to have originated from Neanderthals.
Researchers found that specialized MLB pitchers perform better in their specialty after obligatory tasks outside of their specialization, such as batting. This phenomenon is known as 'forced task inferiority,' where underperformance in non-specialist tasks frustrates specialists and generates heightened drive that they can channel into...
A Cornell University-led study found that small and shallow ponds emit significant amounts of methane and carbon dioxide, with variability increasing as pond size decreases. The research provides valuable insights into calibrating climate models and informs strategies for mitigating greenhouse gas emissions from inland waterbodies.
Researchers at Cornell University have developed a method to control the behavior of swarming microrobots by varying their size. By mixing different sizes of microrobots, they can self-organize into diverse patterns that can be manipulated when a magnetic field is applied. This technique may help inform future applications such as targ...
A recent study has found that microbes play a crucial role in storing carbon in the soil, with a four-fold greater importance than other processes. This breakthrough could lead to improved soil health and increased food security through targeted farm management practices.
A new study found that neurons in a key brain region have different functions based on their genetic identity, which could lead to better understanding of the brain's computational flexibility and memory capacity. The diversity of neurons in the CA1 region of the hippocampus was previously unknown and is crucial for memory development.
A recent study published in Current Biology found that humidity plays a crucial role in attracting pollinators to plants, alongside scent. The researchers discovered that the weevil responsible for pollinating Zamia furfuracea was equally sensitive to humidity as to scent.
A Cornell University-led study using the Tetris game found that players who receive fewer turns perceive their partner as less likable, regardless of whether a human or AI allocates the turns. The researchers also discovered that machine allocation behavior can lead to worse performance and gameplay when fairness is not guaranteed.
A new method developed by Cornell researchers provides tools to interpret discarded X-ray crystallography data, enabling better understanding of proteins' movement, structure, and function. This breakthrough could lead to designing new drugs targeting specific proteins.
A new study from Cornell University found that the pharmaceutical industry can significantly reduce its environmental impact. The study analyzed the full life cycle of the HIV antiretroviral drug Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate (TDF) and found that energy usage is the biggest contributor to carbon emissions, accounting for up to 45% of t...
A Cornell astrophysicist explains how the Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE) satellite detected polarized X-rays from a magnetar, revealing 'photon metamorphosis' – a transformation of X-ray photons. The phenomenon is a natural consequence of quantum electrodynamics under strong magnetic field conditions.
A new study by Cornell University sociologists suggests that increasing women's representation in STEM majors will reduce gender disparities in STEM occupations. However, the findings also indicate that labor market factors and policies play a significant role in perpetuating gender segregation. Integrating academic majors can help chi...
A new method allows researchers to break down old clothing chemically and reuse polyester compounds to create functional coatings. The process, known as controlled crystallization, enables the creation of fire-resistant, anti-bacterial or wrinkle-free coatings that can be applied to various fabrics.
Researchers created microscale origami machines that can self-fold and operate in dry environments, paving the way for autonomous devices. The machines use a chemical reaction to deform and bend, acting as a 'hinge' to achieve motion.
A Cornell University-led collaboration has identified transient crystal defects as the cause of rapid degradation in sodium-ion batteries. The researchers used operando X-ray imaging to visualize these defects while the battery was in operation, revealing their formation and self-healing processes.
A Cornell University-led project has reconstructed Balto's phenotype using ancient DNA extraction and analysis. The research reveals that Balto had a genetically healthier and less inbred lineage than modern breeds, with characteristics adapted to the extreme environment of 1920s Alaska.
Researchers have identified the structure of the circadian rhythm photosensor and its target in fruit flies, revealing key components of the circadian clocks. The study also shed light on how DNA damage is repaired in a cell and found genetic variations that help flies adapt to changing latitudes.
A new online tool predicts the potential abundance of Black-backed Woodpeckers after fire by incorporating pyrodiversity into forest management decisions. This helps balance human and wildlife needs in post-fire landscapes.
Researchers found Mountain Quail were more common than thought, with positive associations to high-severity fires. They were most positively associated with areas that had burned in the past 6-10 years, but also showed positive relationships ranging from 1 to 35 years after fires.
Researchers at Cornell University found that employees who are not in positions of power can become more creative when given time to warm up to a task by engaging in it multiple times. This challenges the idea that power boosts creativity and suggests a simple intervention to empower all employees.
A parasite identified as Philaster apodigitiformis has been found responsible for the massive die-off of long-spined sea urchins in the Caribbean Sea. The loss of these vital herbivores threatens coral reef health and balance, with devastating consequences for marine ecosystems.
The Cornell University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences has been awarded a $9.9 million grant by the Bezos Earth Fund to develop low-cost virtual fencing technology that can benefit farmers, animals, and the environment. The project aims to improve existing virtual fencing technology and combine it with animal-monitoring system...
Researchers have developed an organoid-based method to assess the potency of glycoconjugate vaccines, speeding up the vaccine development process. This method uses tissue from a single mouse to create hundreds of immune organoids, allowing for the assessment of dozens or even hundreds of vaccine candidates in just four days.
A new theory, dubbed the Pancosmorio theory, emphasizes the importance of maintaining an Earth-like ecosystem for human survival in deep space. The key factors include gravity, which induces a pressure gradient in the body, and oxygen, which is generated by plants on Earth.
A new study found that migratory birds, such as the American Redstart, can delay their spring migration by up to 10 days and fly faster to reach breeding grounds, partially offsetting climate change impacts. However, this strategy comes with a decline in overall survival rates.