A new study by Queen's University Belfast researchers found that dogs can detect human stress through scent alone, without visual or audio cues. The study involved four dogs and 36 people, who underwent a difficult maths problem to induce stress. The dogs correctly identified the stressed samples in every test session.
A study published in Nature Cell Biology reveals a protein's role in both brain development and cancer metastasis. The discovery could lead to early diagnosis and targeted treatment for various cancers and brain disorders.
Researchers at Queen's University Belfast have secured a £228,900 grant to develop an mRNA vaccine targeting protein p53 in triple negative breast cancer. The project aims to improve treatment options for patients with this aggressive form of the disease.
Scientists at Queen's University Belfast have developed a computer-aided data tool that can predict novel sites of binding for potential drugs. The tool aims to improve treatment for a range of illnesses by increasing therapeutic efficacy and reducing side effects.
Researchers at Queen's University Belfast are developing cutting-edge millimetre-wave radar systems with machine learning capabilities to enhance security scanners' effectiveness. The technology hopes to process images in under a tenth of a second, reducing false alarms and queues.
A team led by Queen's University Belfast scientist Dr. David Jess discovered that the Sun's magnetic waves strengthen and grow due to the formation of an 'acoustic resonator', where temperature changes create boundaries that trap the waves, allowing them to intensify.
Researchers at Queen's University Belfast have developed a low-cost technique to convert brewery waste into carbon, which can be used as a renewable fuel or in water filters. The method creates activated carbon and carbon nanotubes from barley waste, reducing emissions linked with the agriculture sector and creating a high-value product.
Research by Queen's University Belfast found that grandiose narcissism can increase mental toughness, reducing symptoms of depression and perceived stress. This contradicts the traditional view of narcissism as a solely negative personality trait.
Astronomers have discovered a year-long plateau in the decline of Type Ia supernova light curves, challenging previous expectations. This unexpected behavior will impact the way astronomers measure the expansion of the universe and provide new insights into these powerful explosions.
The new test detects protease markers in humans, animals, and food products, indicating disease presence. It can be used anywhere without laboratory conditions, providing faster diagnosis and saving time and money.
The MONARCH study investigates if home eye tests can detect wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in patients, potentially reducing unnecessary hospital appointments and costs. Patients will complete three home eye tests weekly for one to two years, with results compared to hospital check-ups.
A study by Dr Kostas Papageorgiou at Queen's University Belfast found that adolescents with subclinical narcissism may be more mentally tough and perform better at school. The research suggests a positive correlation between narcissism and mental toughness, which can lead to improved academic achievement.
Researchers detect heat produced by Alfvén waves in a sunspot, shedding light on the Sun's extremely high temperatures. The discovery opens up new understanding of this phenomenon and its potential applications in energy reactors and medical devices.
The Sicilian mafia arose from high demand for citrus fruits following physician James Lind's discovery that they could prevent scurvy. Citrus cultivation dominated Sicily's economy, creating a lucrative market that attracted mafia affiliation and protection.
Researchers at Queen's University Belfast have discovered a new process called aggregation-induced emission (AIE) that can create wider variety of colours in high-definition TVs. This process could increase the number of colour combinations by over 50% and lead to brighter, lighter and more energy-efficient displays.
A team of researchers, led by Dr Gianluca Sarri from Queen's University Belfast, has created the first small-scale replica of a gamma ray burst in a laboratory. The experiment used the Gemini laser to produce a mini gamma ray burst, confirming current models' predictions for magnetic field generation and gamma-ray emission.
Researchers at Queen's University Belfast found that female cats exhibit a strong preference for using their right paw, while males show a preference for the left. This gender-based difference in limb use may help cat owners understand their pet's stress levels and behavior.
Researchers will test the quantum superposition principle (QSP) in a microscopic system, exploring its validity at larger scales. If successful, this could lead to robust quantum technology for daily applications, enabling faster data processing and transmission.
Researchers at Queen's University Belfast led an international team that studied the mysterious `Oumuamua object, finding it has a dry crust similar to icy bodies covered with carbon-rich material. The team discovered this coating could have protected the object's icy interior from vaporizing, even when passing close to our sun.
Researchers at Queen's University Belfast have made a breakthrough in treating antibiotic-resistant bacteria Klebsiella pneumoniae. They discovered that the body's natural defences, specifically interferons, can fight back against the infection, offering new avenues for therapy.
A new gene expression biomarker has been developed to diagnose prostate cancer type and aggressiveness, enabling clinicians to tailor treatment plans. The study found the diagnostic test to be more effective than standard clinical tests in predicting aggressive disease.
A flexible supercapacitor with a longer cycle life has been designed by Queen's University Belfast researchers, which could power body sensors and improve patient comfort. The device is made of non-flammable electrolytes and organic composites, safe for the human body.
Researchers have found a superlubricity in graphene, where friction vanishes, and hexagonal boron nitride layers are as strong as diamond but more flexible. The unique qualities of these materials could be used to create scratch-proof paint for cars and flexible smart devices.
A researcher at Queen's University Belfast has discovered a way to convert contaminated aluminium foil into a highly pure biofuel catalyst, which could significantly reduce global waste and energy problems. The new catalyst is more environmentally-friendly, effective, and cheaper than commercial alternatives.
Researchers at Queen's University have created unique 2D sheets, called domain walls, which exist within crystalline materials and can appear, disappear or move around without permanently altering the crystal. These breakthroughs could revolutionize tiny electronic devices by enabling constant reconfiguration of electronic circuits.
A new dynamic hybrid device technology has been discovered, combining semiconducting molecules C60 with layered materials graphene and hBN to create a unique material that revolutionizes smart devices. The material boasts improved physical properties, including stability, electronic compatibility, and lightness.
Researchers at Queen's University Belfast have made a significant advance in treating bowel cancer by defining precise gene signatures within cells. This allows for the development of novel prognostic and predictive markers, enabling personalized medicine approaches.
A new trial led by Queen's University Belfast aims to improve survival rates for critically ill patients with respiratory failure. The 'extracorporeal carbon dioxide removal' procedure could significantly reduce mortality rates and provide gentler ventilation, reducing lung damage caused by mechanical ventilation.
A Queen's-led European research project, INBIONET, has made huge strides in tackling antibiotic resistance and its impact on global health. The study found that various pathogens share a common anti-immune strategy, potentially leading to the development of new drugs to treat different types of infections.
A recent study by Queen's University Belfast found that 50% of baby rice food products contain illegal levels of inorganic arsenic, a known carcinogen. The research highlights the vulnerability of babies to arsenic exposure and its potential long-term health consequences.
A study published in Nature Astronomy found that blue binaries in the Kuiper Belt formed closer to the Sun and were shaped by Neptune's gravitational nudges. The research suggests a smooth and calm migration of Neptune from 20 AU to its current location at 30 AU, allowing fragile binaries to be pushed out to their current orbits.
Klebsiella pneumoniae is a multi-drug resistant microbe causing severe infections with mortality rates of 25-60 percent. Researchers have identified the underlying molecular explanations preventing treatment, highlighting the need for innovative solutions to counteract its effects.
An international team of researchers has developed a cell culture model that can reproduce the major elements of drusen, the hallmark deposit of AMD. The model confirms that RPE cells in early AMD are functional and that Bruch's membrane conditions play a key role in disease progression.
The partnership aims to create a critical mass of expertise in key engineering areas, such as energy and advanced manufacturing. This collaboration will help the UK maintain its global standing in light of increasing international competition.
Dr Lisa Connolly is leading a €4m international initiative to investigate the effects of natural toxins and manmade chemicals on human hormones, causing illnesses like cancer, obesity and infertility. The PROTECTED project aims to develop innovative analysis tools to protect public health from these endocrine disruptors.
Researchers have developed a theoretical framework to quantify the degree of transparency of 2D materials to an electrostatic field. This allows for microscopic control over charged carriers in bulk semiconductors, leading to next-generation optoelectronics with lower power consumption.
Researchers are examining DNA samples from 20,000 people with diabetes to identify genetic factors in diabetic kidney disease. The study aims to develop new tests and treatments to prevent kidney complications and improve patient outcomes.
Astronomers at Queen's University Belfast will lead the UK's search for distant supernovae, asteroids, and comets. The LSST telescope will generate a massive scientific dataset of billions of galaxies, stars, and solar system objects, providing insights into the origin of chemical elements and the size and geometry of the Universe.
A new study published in Nature Medicine highlights the potential of big data to unlock the secrets inside cancer cells and enable more effective personalised treatments. The study proposes a blueprint for sharing patient data to improve patient outcomes.
Scientists at Queen's University Belfast have discovered a new molecule that can potentially prolong the life of individuals with cystic fibrosis by improving airway hydration and mucous clearance. The treatment targets the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC), preventing chronic infections and inflammation that cause progressive lung damage.
A team of scientists from Queen's University Belfast is collaborating on a novel gene therapy approach to reverse diabetes-linked blood vessel damage to the retina. The research aims to prevent disease progression and restore visual function, addressing a global challenge affecting over 90 million people.
Researchers used microbial metagenome analysis and environmental chemistry to find the most likely transit route Hannibal's forces took across the Alps, pinpointing the Col de Traversette pass as a key crossing point. The study, published in Archaeometry, provides solid evidence for Hannibal's route, dating back to 218 BC.
A €320,000 partnership will help control, prevent and eradicate invasive species across Europe, threatening native plants and animals at a cost of €12 billion annually. The project aims to develop evidence-based approaches to predict and prevent incursions by invasive species.
A new technology called 'extracorporeal carbon dioxide removal' aims to minimize damage to lungs caused by mechanical ventilation. The study will test its effectiveness in reducing mortality rates and improving long-term survival for patients with respiratory failure.
A new technique allows for faster monitoring of magnetic field changes before solar flares, providing advance warning of potentially devastating space storms. The method, developed by Queen's University Belfast, enables scientists to examine the precursors responsible for destructive space weather.
Scientists at Queen's University Belfast have created a porous liquid with unusual gas-dissolving properties, paving the way for more efficient and greener chemical processes. The breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize carbon capture technologies.
Seals are having no significant impact on commercial fish populations off the south and west coasts of Ireland, according to a new study. The researchers found that seals primarily eat smaller fish, which are abundant in numbers, thereby not competing with fishermen for the valuable stocks.
Researchers at Queen's University Belfast have developed a technology using peptide mimics to combat parasitic nematodes, which infect crop plants and reduce yields by up to 50%. The project aims to protect crops like banana and plantain, grown by smallholders in developing countries.
A five-year programme will focus on developing miniscule technology to deliver drugs directly to cancer sites, improving chemotherapy effectiveness. The project tackles an important area around drug delivery in pancreatic cancer, which is the fifth most common cause of cancer deaths in the UK.
Researchers at Queen's University Belfast are developing new 'inhaled antibiotics' to manage chronic lung infection in cystic fibrosis and bronchiectasis. The €50 million project will improve patients' quality of life by reducing lung infections and flare-ups, and overcoming antibacterial resistance.