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University of Alberta


Bigger horns equal better genes

Researchers found a correlation between horn growth and genetic diversity in alpine ibex, with greater diversity associated with longer horn lengths. The study suggests that genetic quality becomes more apparent as the animal ages, supporting the mutation accumulation theory of ageing.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateJun 5, 2007

Divorce increases risk of Ritalin use

A new study by Dr. Lisa Strohschein found a significantly higher risk of Ritalin use among children whose parents divorce compared to those whose parents stay together. The research suggests that parental divorce may act as a stressful life event, leading to adjustment problems and increased ADHD symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJun 4, 2007

Mule deer moms rescue other fawns

A study by the University of Alberta found that mule deer mothers respond to distress calls from both their own and other species' fawns, often putting themselves at risk. This behavior defies traditional explanations for parental care and suggests a more primal instinct for survival.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateMay 30, 2007

Researchers create new nanotechnology field

A University of Alberta research team has created a novel way to control the quantum state of an electron's spin using plasmonics principles in spintronics technology. This new technology, called spinplasmonics, may lead to revolutionary advances in computer electronics and other areas.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 29, 2007

DNA reveals hooded seals have wanderlust

Researchers found that all hooded seal populations worldwide exhibit identical genetic diversity, indicating they intermingle and mate across populations. This discovery sheds light on the mysterious animal's behavior, with potential implications for conservation efforts.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateMay 9, 2007

Seniors unfairly stereotyped as grouchy and frail

A University of Alberta study found that seniors are being stereotyped as grouchy and inflexible, with caregivers holding misconceptions about aging and Alzheimer's disease, while most seniors are adaptable and seldom angry. The study highlights the need for more education about aging and dementia to promote positive care.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalEducational Gerontology·DateMay 1, 2007

Help comes in the mail for drinkers

A new study led by the University of Alberta found that mailing brief self-help materials to interested drinkers in the general population reduced binge drinking by 10%. The study provided self-help materials to 877 male and female drinkers, aged 43, who were recruited from the general population.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalAddiction·DateApr 27, 2007

Spinal manipulation in children studied

A recent study by the University of Alberta highlights the need for improved reporting and surveillance to better understand the incidence of adverse events in children treated with spinal manipulation. Serious injuries, such as stroke and paraplegia, were found to be rare but warrant further investigation.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateApr 26, 2007

Female ticks have market on gluttony

Female ixodid ticks exhibit remarkable weight gain following mating, with some species increasing in size up to 100 times their original size. This phenomenon is linked to the tick's unique lifestyle and reproductive strategy, which involves prolonged feeding periods and specialized signals triggered by copulation.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Insect Physiology·DateApr 26, 2007

High insulin levels impair intestinal metabolic function

Researchers at the University of Alberta found a connection between high insulin levels and impaired intestinal lipid metabolism in an animal model, supporting the role of intestinal metabolic dysfunction in cardiovascular disease. Excessive insulin slows chylomicron removal from the bloodstream, leading to blockages and heart problems.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalAtherosclerosis·DateApr 24, 2007

TV's beauty makeovers mask ugly truths

The Extreme Makeover show promotes a radical makeover program that enforces conformity to societal norms. The program sells the idea of cosmetic surgery as a means to uncover one's authentic self, but actually reinforces gender, age, class, and race standards.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalFeminist Media Studies·DateMar 23, 2007

Tundra disappearing at rapid rate

A University of Alberta study reveals that tundra treelines are advancing at a faster pace than previously thought, leading to significant changes in vegetation and habitat loss. The researchers found that warmer temperatures triggered an 'upslope surge' of trees, forcing out native species and altering the landscape.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Ecology·DateMar 5, 2007

Grizzly bears feast on diverse diet

A new study found that grizzly bears in the foothills of Alberta have a varied diet, eating everything from ants to moose and berries. The research team identified 40 different food items, with moose being the most common prey, and found that the bears' activity patterns vary depending on the season and environment.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Mammalogy·DateFeb 14, 2007

Helium helps patients breathe easier

Researchers at the University of Alberta discovered that combining helium with 40% oxygen improves the exercise tolerance of COPD patients, allowing them to increase their exercise capacity by an average of 245%. This treatment could have significant clinical implications for people with severe respiratory problems.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateFeb 1, 2007

Small molecule offers big hope against cancer

Researchers at the University of Alberta discovered that dichloroacetate (DCA) can normalize mitochondrial function in various cancers, leading to a significant decrease in tumor growth. DCA's unique mechanism may allow it to selectively target cancer cells while sparing normal tissues.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalCancer Cell·DateJan 16, 2007

Travelers need to know more about diarrhea

A University of Alberta study reveals that travelers are aware of some key factors in avoiding and treating travellers' diarrhea, but lack knowledge on others. The study found that hand-washing is an effective way to ward off the sickness, but many travelers are unaware of the risks of chlorinated water and viral causes.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Travel Medicine·DateJan 11, 2007

Beavers helping frogs, toads survive

A University of Alberta study shows that beaver dams create suitable breeding habitats for frogs and toads, with approximately 5,000 species recorded at 54 beaver ponds. The beavers' presence enhances the development and growth rates of frog and toad larvae.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalBiological Conservation·DateJan 10, 2007

Squirrels place winning bet in unpredictable world

In a study published in Science, researchers found that red squirrels are able to predict the timing of tree seed production and produce a second litter of babies to take advantage of the abundant food. This strategy allows them to maximize their reproductive success, outsmarting the trees' 'swamp and starve' tactic.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalScience·DateDec 21, 2006

Most Canadian med school grads lack basic surgical skills

A recent study published in the Canadian Journal of Surgery found that many medical school graduates in Canada lack proficiency in basic surgical skills such as suturing and tube placements. The researchers surveyed 123 recent graduates and 55 surgeons, revealing a significant gap between expected and actual skill levels.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalCanadian Journal of Surgery·DateNov 7, 2006

Why do we stick to our bad habits?

A University of Alberta researcher found that people understand the dangers of bad habits but struggle to change due to factors like social norms and human defiance. The study suggests that risk communicators need to look beyond knowledge of risks to address underlying issues, such as poverty and unemployment.

Study reveals religious leader's silent secret

A University of Alberta researcher found that John de Ruiter's silent approach asserts his charismatic authority over followers by projecting their own meaning, discouraging dissent, and forming intimate bonds. This method allows de Ruiter to continually prove himself as extraordinary to his followers.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Contemporary Religion·DateOct 30, 2006

Researchers give name to ancient mystery creature

Researchers at the University of Alberta have named an ancient mammal found in Alberta, Canada, which lived about 60 million years ago. The creature, Horolodectes sunae, had powerful jaws and a unique tooth shape that resembles those of primitive relatives of ungulates, but was likely carnivorous.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Paleontology·DateOct 17, 2006

LSD treatment for alcoholism gets new look

A recent study published in Social History of Medicine reveals that LSD can be an effective treatment for alcoholism, with 65% of participants abstaining from drinking for at least a year after receiving a single dose. The therapy worked by allowing patients to experience a spiritual journey that empowered them to heal themselves.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalSocial History of Medicine·DateOct 6, 2006

Salmon farms kill wild fish, study shows

A new study confirms that sea lice from fish farms are a major threat to wild salmon, with up to 95% of juveniles killed by infestation. The research found an increasing number of salmon deaths over the migration season, highlighting the severe impact of large-scale aquaculture.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 2, 2006