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Concordia University


The surprising truth about obsessive-compulsive thinking

A global study by Concordia University researchers found that 94 percent of people experience unwanted, intrusive thoughts, images, and/or impulses. This commonality challenges traditional OCD diagnoses and treatment strategies, suggesting that cognitive and behavioral interventions may be more effective across cultures.

SourceConcordia University·JournalJournal of Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders·DateApr 8, 2014

Improved pavement markings can save lives

A Concordia University study found that snowplows are the main culprit in erasing roadway markings, which can lead to traffic accidents. To address this issue, researchers suggest using more expensive and durable epoxy paint, which could save lives in the long run.

SourceConcordia University·JournalStructure and Infrastructure Engineering·DateMar 19, 2014

Boosting self-esteem prevents health problems for seniors

A Concordia University study found that maintaining or improving self-esteem can help prevent health problems in seniors. The research team measured cortisol levels, self-esteem, stress, and symptoms of depression in 147 adults aged 60 and over, revealing a strong association between declining self-esteem and increased cortisol levels.

SourceConcordia University·JournalPsychoneuroendocrinology·DateMar 12, 2014

Are bilingual kids more open-minded?

New research from Concordia University suggests that bilingual children, like monolingual peers, prefer interactions with those speaking their mother tongue with a native accent. This bias may be related to children's preference for familiarity, according to the study.

SourceConcordia University·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateMar 5, 2014

Can a simple handshake predict cancer survival rates?

A new study published in Supportive Care in Cancer has linked handgrip strength to survival rates among patients with advanced-stage cancers. The test measures peak grip strength using a simple device called a dynamometer, providing a direct assessment of body strength and helping doctors determine interventions needed.

SourceConcordia University·JournalSupportive Care in Cancer·DateFeb 26, 2014

Are you big pharma's new target market?

A study from Concordia University's John Molson School of Business found that prescription drug brand personality has two distinct dimensions: competence and innovativeness. Consumers prefer overall competence, while innovativeness is associated with uniqueness and originality.

SourceConcordia University·JournalJournal of Consumer Marketing·DateFeb 4, 2014

Global warming's biggest offenders

A new study published in Environmental Research Letters reveals the US and China are among the 7 countries most accountable for global warming. The study assigns a temperature change value to each country reflecting its contribution to observed global warming, with the US responsible for a significant 20% of the observed warming.

SourceConcordia University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJan 15, 2014

Home-making post-disaster

A recent study by Concordia University doctoral graduate Devora Neumark found that engaging in house-beautification practices can help overcome the traumas associated with domicide. By repeating simple domestic actions, individuals can create a sense of order and rebuild their homes.

Gender identity and single-sex schools

Research from Concordia University shows that girls in single-sex schools report feeling more pressure to act like typical girls, while those in mixed-sex schools are less likely to be victimized by their peers. This highlights the negative repercussions of not conforming to gender roles in all-girls schools.

SourceConcordia University·JournalSex Roles·DateDec 11, 2013

Social values vary across Canada

A national survey conducted by Concordia University found that Canadians have varying opinions on the country's social welfare programs and Aboriginal self-governance. While a majority (65%) supports universal access to assistance programs, there is significant variation in prioritization, with families with children living in poverty ...

Like shopping at home

A study published in the Journal of Consumer Research found that customers become emotionally attached to commercial spaces, leading to increased loyalty and commitment. This attachment is driven by factors such as authentic decor, high product quality, and a sense of security.

SourceConcordia University·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateNov 12, 2013

Movin' on out

A new study from Concordia University reveals that parents and peers are vital for millennials leaving home, providing both practical and emotional support. The research, conducted with 32 emerging adults, found that peers were a key source of information about moving out and adopting strategies for autonomous living.

SourceConcordia University·JournalCanadian Journal of Family and Youth / Le Journal Canadien de Famille et de la Jeunesse·DateNov 6, 2013

How to stay sharp in retirement

A study by Concordia University researchers found that individuals who engage in cognitively demanding activities and enjoy doing so tend to experience less cognitive decline later in life. Additionally, those with even mild depressive symptoms are more likely to show a decline in brainpower after retirement.

Teens interested in healthy minds -- and ripped bodies

A recent study on adolescent perceptions surrounding physical activity found that teens are aware of the mental benefits of exercise, including increased confidence and self-esteem. Teens also perceive elements like leadership skills development and character growth to be beneficial, equally common among boys and girls.

SourceConcordia University·JournalSAGE Open·DateSep 10, 2013

Buildings of the future

Concordia University has received a $2 million funding to develop new techniques for reducing building energy consumption. Researchers will test smart features, solar panels, and heat-storage technologies to make buildings more efficient and sustainable.

The Elizabethan war that won $300,000

Ruth Canning's research project explores the Nine Years' War, a 400-year-old conflict that shaped Ireland's identity and continues to influence its culture today. The grant will fuel her three-year study of this overlooked war, which could lead to a more nuanced understanding of present-day situations.

Optimists better at regulating stress

A study by Concordia University researchers found that optimists tend to have more stable cortisol levels, indicating better regulation of stress. In contrast, pessimists struggle to control their stress response, especially during high-stress situations.

SourceConcordia University·JournalHealth Psychology·DateJul 23, 2013

Capturing the artistic approach

Concordia University's SenseLab receives $2.95 million grant to explore the intersection of art and knowledge through 'research creation'. Led by Erin Manning, the project aims to evaluate new forms of knowledge produced outside mainstream research settings.

Feeling stressed?

Researchers at Concordia University have found that oxytocin can increase a person's trust in others following social rejection. In a double-blind experiment, participants who received oxytocin prior to being subjected to social rejection reported greater trust in other people compared to those who received a placebo.

SourceConcordia University·JournalPsychoneuroendocrinology·DateJun 25, 2013

Cultural products have evolutionary roots

According to Concordia University professor Gad Saad, the drive to consume is rooted in a shared biological heritage. He found that four key Darwinian factors - survival, reproduction, kin selection, and reciprocal altruism - shape narratives in consumer products like movies and song lyrics.

SourceConcordia University·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateJun 12, 2013

To catch a cyber-thief

A new technique developed by researchers at Concordia University has slashed data-crunching time for law enforcement, allowing investigators to extract hidden knowledge from large volumes of text. The new method automatically identifies criminal topics and provides visualization of social networks among participants.

SourceConcordia University·JournalData & Knowledge Engineering·DateJun 5, 2013

Breaking the silence of suicide

A Concordia University study shows that a veil of shame surrounds suicide in cultures worldwide, forcing those affected to grieve alone. Researchers used arts therapy to facilitate dialogue and find common themes across diverse communities, promoting healing and hope.

SourceConcordia University·JournalThe Arts in Psychotherapy·DateMay 6, 2013

$1 million for smart energy solutions

Concordia University's NSERC Smart Net-zero Energy Buildings Strategic Network has received $1 million in new funding from Natural Resources Canada. This grant will support research and testing of progressive technologies to create net-zero energy homes and commercial buildings.

How smart are your clothes?

Joanna Berzowska's project harnesses power from the human body to create garments with complex, surprising transformations. The technology is woven into the fibre itself, enabling innovative 'smart textiles' with potential applications in fashion and beyond.

Just 'weight' until menopause

Research reveals that estrogen deficiency after menopause leads to increased fat storage in the abdomen, associated with a higher risk of health issues. Post-menopausal women experience changes in cellular processes, leading to more fat being stored overall, which can be a target for future medical advances.

SourceConcordia University·JournalDiabetes·DateMar 27, 2013

It all hinges on the bottom line

A new study by Concordia University researchers found that companies with financial restatements are more likely to have poor corporate governance, including high growth rates and less independent oversight. These firms are also more likely to replace top executives and auditors in an attempt to improve their public image.

SourceConcordia University·JournalJournal of Corporate Finance·DateMar 22, 2013

Aerospace industry adapts to global marketplace

A Concordia University study found that Canadian aerospace companies can adapt to the global pace by adopting a smaller-is-better approach and focusing on integrated low-cost differentiation strategies. The research suggests that companies should develop marketing plans to convince large global companies of the benefits of working with...

SourceConcordia University·JournalOperations Management Research·DateMar 20, 2013

New method for greenhouse gas predictions

A new dynamic mathematical model estimates variation in greenhouse gas emissions in response to changes in wastewater management systems. The study provides more accurate and detailed predictions than current steady-state models, with implications for industries seeking to reduce their carbon footprint.

SourceConcordia University·JournalEnvironmental Science and Pollution Research·DateMar 5, 2013

Towards more sustainable construction

A team of graduate students from Concordia University developed a watchdog tool to evaluate the level of compliance between urban planning goals and environmental impact assessments of development projects. The study found that the proposal adopted in 2009 for the Turcot highway interchange was inadequate for long-term sustainability.

SourceConcordia University·JournalEnvironmental Impact Assessment Review·DateMar 1, 2013

Caring friends can save the world

New research from Concordia University found that caring relationships in friendships can foster a desire to make a positive impact on one's community and world. Adolescents who exhibit empathic care towards their friends are more likely to develop concern for others beyond their immediate circle.

SourceConcordia University·JournalJournal of Youth and Adolescence·DateFeb 1, 2013

Checking out open access

A Concordia librarian advocates for open source technology to make academic journals freely available, reducing subscription fees. The initiative aims to ensure institutional support for long-term sustainability and promotes the mission of libraries to support scholarly research.

SourceConcordia University·JournalThe Journal of Academic Librarianship·DateJan 30, 2013

Immigrants: Highly educated, underpaid

Recent immigrants to Canada often over-qualified for their jobs due to language barriers and lack of work experience. However, increased proficiency in English or French, combined with post-immigration education and training, can significantly improve job matching.

SourceConcordia University·JournalISRN Economics·DateJan 23, 2013

Closer look at consumers' gazes

A study by Concordia University researchers found that consumers' gazes naturally draw towards centrally placed products. This subconscious visual focus influences purchasing decisions. By understanding these unconscious habits, shoppers can make more informed choices and train themselves to thoroughly scan product displays.

SourceConcordia University·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateDec 6, 2012

Understanding anger, overcoming anxiety

A new study from Concordia University found that for individuals with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), anger is a major exacerbating factor, contributing to symptoms and potentially hindering treatment. The research suggests that internalized anger expression may be a stronger predictor of GAD than other forms of anger.

SourceConcordia University·JournalCognitive Behaviour Therapy·DateDec 4, 2012

Personalities influence workforce planning

A new model developed by Concordia researcher Mohammed Othman takes into account workers' personality strengths and differences to create a more efficient workforce planning system. The result is a significant cost savings of 7.1% compared to traditional approaches.

SourceConcordia University·JournalComputers & Industrial Engineering·DateNov 26, 2012

Get with the computer program

A pan-Quebec study found that students prefer engaging lectures over targeted tweets, while instructors were more comfortable with emails than social media. The research suggests that curriculum design and professional development should prioritize interactive activities over technology integration.

Singing in the brain

A Concordia researcher is developing a system that converts physiological displays of emotion into music. The music is used to teach individuals with autism disorders how to identify feelings by externalizing them through sound. By tapping into the brain's electrical signals, researchers can create an emotional symphony.

Sharing the research on car-sharing

Concordia University researchers created a computer model to help car-sharing services grow while reducing congestion and carbon emissions. The model assesses areas with greatest growth potential and simulates various scenarios to predict the best strategy for growth.

SourceConcordia University·JournalExpert Systems with Applications·DateSep 13, 2012

Fighting Alzheimer's before its onset

A Concordia University study has found that adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) are impaired in several aspects of executive functioning, particularly inhibitory control. The researchers hope their work will lead to the development of more reliable tools for detecting Alzheimer's disease at an earlier stage.

SourceConcordia University·JournalJournal of the International Neuropsychological Society·DateSep 10, 2012

Social exclusion on the playground

A study by Concordia researcher Holly Recchia found that children's experiences of exclusion are more diverse than previously thought, with some trying to numb negative feelings and others searching for alternatives. The study suggests age-specific interventions to help kids take responsibility for their actions and weigh different goals.

SourceConcordia University·JournalCognitive Development·DateSep 5, 2012

Bringing style home

Researchers studied Apartment Therapy website for insights into consumer behavior, finding that reading and imitating decor can shape personal style and boundaries. Through a tripartite process of problematization, instrumentalization, and ritualization, consumers develop standards for cool design choices.

SourceConcordia University·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateAug 13, 2012