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Queen's University


A second look at glaucoma surgery

A study led by Queen's University professor Robert Campbell revealed that using anti-inflammatory medicines after common eye surgery isn't helpful or necessary. The research found that steroids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs do not affect the ability of laser treatment to lower eye pressure.

SourceQueen's University·JournalOphthalmology·DateSep 18, 2014

Video game could help anxious children

A new video game called MindLight is being tested to see if it can help youth cope with and conquer their anxiety. The game, designed for children aged 8-16, uses neurofeedback technology to measure the player's level of relaxation or anxiety, providing a safe space for kids to practice regulating their emotions.

Fertile discovery

Researchers discovered that synthetic PAWP can initiate fertilization, promising a new method for diagnosing and treating male factor infertility. The protein's potential as a molecular marker for diagnosis and improvement of fertility treatments is being explored.

SourceQueen's University·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateAug 11, 2014

A new view of the world

Exercise and relaxation techniques have been found to alter how people perceive their environment, making it less threatening for those with mood and anxiety disorders. This breakthrough could explain why these treatments are successful in managing symptoms.

SourceQueen's University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 17, 2014

New tuberculosis test more than skin deep

A new screening process for tuberculosis uses interferon-gamma release assays (IGRA) to detect pre-existing TB infections, potentially saving thousands from unnecessary treatment. The test can identify latent TB cases that may not reactivate within years, reducing the risk of mass exposure in crowded prison facilities.

SourceQueen's University·JournalThe International Journal of Tuberculosis and Lung Disease·DateJun 5, 2014

Revolutionary shape-changing phone curls upon a call

Researchers at Queen's University have developed a new smartphone called MorePhone that can visually signal incoming notifications, reducing the likelihood of missed messages. The device uses a thin, flexible display and shape memory alloy wires to create visual cues, such as bending corners to convey different types of messages.

Cheaper drug could lead to serious eye issues

A recent Queen's University study found that the cheaper drug for treating wet Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) has a higher risk of causing eye inflammation and vision loss. The research indicates that patients receiving the cheaper drug had a 12 times higher risk of serious eye issues, emphasizing the need for caution in its use.

SourceQueen's University·JournalCanadian Journal of Ophthalmology·DateJun 18, 2012

Brightly colored bird bills indicate good health

A study by Queen's University researcher Troy Murphy found female birds with more colourful bills have higher antibody levels, indicating greater strength and ability to fight off invaders. The colour of a female bird's bill is strongly correlated with immunoglobulin antibodies, a component of the immune system in birds.

SourceQueen's University·JournalPhysiological and Biochemical Zoology·DateMay 24, 2012

Color of robins' eggs determines parental care

A study found that male robins care for their young more when the eggs laid by their mate are brighter blue. The researchers replaced artificial eggs with baby robins in nests to test this theory, and results showed males feeding their babies twice as much when eggs were brightest blue.

SourceQueen's University·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateMay 14, 2012

Slime mold mimics Canadian highway network

Researchers have found that slime mold can compute a complex network similar to the Canadian highway system. This discovery provides evidence that nature is capable of computation, challenging our understanding of its capabilities.

SourceQueen's University·JournalInternational Journal of Natural Computing Research·DateMar 26, 2012

Scientists discover how brain corrects bumps to body

Researchers identified the primary motor cortex as the key brain area responsible for correcting movement after external knocks, which may help explain why some stroke patients improve while others remain uncoordinated. This finding could support first-stage sensory rehabilitation to rebuild pathways and improve movement skills.

SourceQueen's University·JournalNature·DateDec 5, 2011

Researchers unlock bacteria's beneficial side

Phosphonic acids are persistent pollutants found in common medicinal products, detergents, and herbicides. Bacteria have been shown to break down these molecules with surprising ease, thanks to the identification of specialized proteins that perform key bond-breaking steps.

SourceQueen's University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 24, 2011

The scoop on the dangers of snow shoveling

A study published in Clinical Research in Cardiology found that snow shoveling was associated with a significant proportion of heart problems among patients, particularly males with a family history of coronary artery disease. The study identified three key risk factors: gender, family history, and smoking.

SourceQueen's University·JournalClinical Research in Cardiology·DateNov 23, 2011

Great Lakes fish feed on invading shrimp

Researchers found that several native fish species have incorporated the bloody red shrimp into their diet over multi-seasonal periods. The study suggests these fish are adapting to the invasive species, alleviating concerns about its impact on native populations.

SourceQueen's University·JournalJournal of Great Lakes Research·DateNov 22, 2011

More intersections mean less outdoor activity for children

A Queen's University study reveals that high street connectivity and dense intersections in towns and cities reduce children's physical activity levels. The research found youth living in well-connected neighborhoods have lower activity levels compared to those in less connected areas.

SourceQueen's University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateOct 11, 2011

Fishy behaviour

Researchers found that timid fish are more likely to be caught using angling techniques near rocky outcrops or submerged vegetation, while bolder fish are targeted by beach seining. The study's findings suggest that boldness can influence an individual's capture technique and habitat preference.

SourceQueen's University·JournalCanadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences·DateOct 4, 2011

Spring flings may explain teen pregnancies peak

Researchers found a higher likelihood of conception in March among school-aged adolescents compared to adults. The study suggests that biological factors and increased access to contraception during Spring Break may contribute to this phenomenon.

SourceQueen's University·JournalJournal of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology·DateSep 7, 2011

Bird song-sharing like verbal sparring

Research at Queen's University Biological Station reveals that singing shared songs is an attention-seeking behavior often displayed by older males. Song sharing is linked to individual differences like age and neighborhood characteristics.

SourceQueen's University·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateAug 10, 2011

Cod resurgence in Canadian waters

Research published in Nature reveals Canadian cod populations are recovering, with haddock playing a dominant role, and a reversal of predator-prey roles contributing to the growth of smaller fish species. The study suggests an ecological transition towards balance is underway.

SourceQueen's University·JournalNature·DateJul 27, 2011