A University of Alberta study finds that brown bears who rub against trees more often tend to have more offspring and more mates. The research team analyzed bear hair samples from over 900 rub sites and found a correlation between tree-grating behavior and reproductive success.
A new study suggests that limiting the numbers of invasive species may be a better goal than eliminating them altogether. The research, led by Stephanie Green, proposes a strategy called functional eradication to curtail the impact of destructive and widespread invasive species.
Researchers at the University of Alberta identified a new mechanism responsible for plaque buildup on artery walls, which can restrict blood flow and lead to cardiovascular disease. They found that inhibiting this process with specific drugs could be a new strategy for treating cardiovascular disease.
A new study by University of Alberta researchers reveals that urban coyotes consuming human food have more human-like gut bacteria, leading to poor health outcomes such as lower body fat and stressed immune systems. The study suggests limiting access to protein-poor human food could be an effective solution.
Researchers found that amphipod claws snap at nearly 100 km/h, accelerating to over 30 meters per second. This unique adaptation could inspire human engineering for fast-repeated movement.
Zebra finches select familiar nest materials when successful breeding, while less experienced birds experiment with new materials. This study challenges long-held assumptions about bird nesting behavior, showing that animals learn and modify their nests based on past experiences.
A University of Alberta study finds that weight loss before knee replacement surgery does not lead to better outcomes for patients with advanced knee osteoarthritis. The research calls into question the use of body mass index (BMI) as a determinant of patient outcomes, highlighting the need to reconsider recommendations about BMI.
A new trace fossil, Glossifungites gingrasi, has been named after University of Alberta paleontologist Murray Gingras. The discovery provides insight into ancient water salinity levels and helps narrow down the type of organism that created the burrow.
A recent study published in JAMA Surgery found that low muscle mass and quality are linked to greater post-operative complications, hospitalization, and mortality in patients with colon cancer following colon resection surgery. The researchers followed 1,630 patients and used preoperative CT scans to analyze body composition.
A new study found that trees' participation in fungal networks in forest soil is linked to their growth, carbon storage, and ability to withstand drought. The research suggests that these networks can provide significant growth advantages to trees with more connections.
A team of researchers led by Catie Strong identified a new mosasaur species, Gavialimimus almaghribensis, with a distinctive long, narrow snout and interlocking teeth. The discovery sheds light on the adaptations that allowed these ancient marine reptiles to thrive in competitive ecosystems.
Researchers at the University of Alberta found diamonds in a small rock sample atop an unrealized gold deposit in Canada's Far North. The discovery provides insights into the thermal conditions of Earth's crust three billion years ago and suggests the presence of kimberlite or similar rocks that can carry diamonds to the surface.
University of Alberta scientists uncover formation mechanism behind iron oxide-apatite deposits. They are deposited from a unique liquid dominated by calcium carbonate and sulfate, providing geologists with new clues to guide the hunt for more ore.
A University of Alberta PhD student has shed new light on the Earth's carbon cycle using diamonds as breadcrumbs. The study proposes a model where 'superdeep' diamonds crystallize from carbon-rich magmas, which may be critical for their growth.
Researchers created artificial cells that can communicate with natural cells, potentially treating illnesses by delivering specific therapeutic molecules. The AI-powered cells detect changes in their environment and release protein signals to influence other cells.
Research by University of Alberta biologists reveals that common sunscreen ingredients, such as avobenzone and oxybenzone, are detrimental to freshwater-dwelling crustaceans like the water flea Daphnia magna. Long-term exposure can be lethal, even at short distances from popular beach areas.
A graduate student has identified a new marine wood-boring trace fossil, Apectoichnus lignummasticans, found in the University of Alberta's Drill Core Collection. The discovery provides evidence that the shallow sea covering Western Canada extended into Saskatchewan roughly 100 million years ago.
Researchers found 24 diverse species feeding on snowshoe hare carcasses, challenging previous thought of food webs. The study revealed prey species' impact on both direct predators and scavengers, highlighting the complex role of scavenging in ecosystems.
A new study finds that the Mount Polley tailings spill in 2014 is still affecting Quesnel Lake, with turbidity increasing each spring and fall due to resuspended contaminants. The phenomenon raises concerns about long-term impacts on the lake's ecology, including effects on fish populations and algal communities.
Recalling memories from an observer-like perspective activates different brain regions than recalling through one's own eyes. This new research suggests that adopting this viewpoint may aid in therapeutic treatments by reducing the intensity of emotions associated with troubling memories.
A new species of sea sponge, Desmacella hyalina, was discovered in glass reef habitats off the coast of British Columbia, making up nearly 20% of live sponges. The sponge's influence on reef function, recruitment, and ecosystem health is still being studied.
Researchers at the University of Alberta and Universidad Autónoma de Zacatecas developed a new method to analyze urinary metabolome in healthy newborns. The study provides reference data for 86 previously unmeasured chemicals in newborn urine, enabling more accurate diagnoses.
A new study by University of Alberta biologists found that female mountain pine beetles use different strategies to find success, regardless of distance traveled. Those flying longer distances tend to lose weight but produce more pheromone, increasing their chances of attracting fellow beetles.
A study by University of Alberta ecologists reveals that industry-created borrow pits provide homes for beavers, supporting the survival of wolverines. The research, funded by various organizations, highlights the unexpected benefits of industrial development on local wildlife habitats.
Researchers found that addressing habitat loss, snowpack variation, and other factors are crucial to saving the endangered species. The study suggests that a renewed emphasis on securing habitat is necessary to protect mountain caribou from extinction.
Scientists have created a sensor that can detect carbon dioxide on a simple piece of paper, with potential applications in industries and smart buildings. The paper-based sensor changes colors based on CO2 levels, providing a cheap and efficient solution for carbon dioxide detection.
A new study proposes a model for the formation of diamond-bearing kimberlites in Northern Alberta, which was caused by the movement of an ancient slab of oceanic rocks. The research combines geophysical imaging, geochronological dating and plate motion calculation to explain how diamonds came to Earth's surface.
A new study reveals that CFC replacements are accumulating in the Canadian Arctic, with levels of degradation products tenfold increasing between 1986 and 2014. The findings suggest that these substances are as concerning as their predecessors and do not break down, posing a threat to the ecosystem.
Scientists have developed a new method called CIDER-Seq to sequence circular DNA, providing insight into its function in bacterial and viral genomes. The tool also sheds light on extrachromosomal circular DNA in human and plant cells, which has been difficult to study due to the lack of effective methods.
A new study reveals that the Late Cretaceous reptile Priosphenodon had a unique type of tooth enamel, similar to that of mammals, which provided it with resilience against tooth wear. The researchers found that the enamel crystals in Priosphenodon were 'woven' into long threads called enamel prisms, a characteristic also found in mammals.
Trained dogs can detect fire accelerants like gasoline in tiny quantities, making them more sensitive than conventional lab tests. The study provides a target for forensic labs when processing evidence flagged by detection dogs.
A study by University of Alberta scientists found that alpine butterflies with specialized diets are more vulnerable to climate change, while those with diverse diets are less likely to be affected. Climate change models suggest that fluctuations in food resources will have a significant impact on these butterfly populations.
A new study found that zebra finches' material preference for their first nest is shaped by their juvenile experience of the material, but only in the presence of an adult. Birds who had access to an adult or material during adolescence built their nests faster and preferred materials accordingly.
Researchers found strikingly high oxygen levels 2 billion years ago in ancient Russian rocks, contradicting previous models of Earth's carbon and oxygen cycles. The discovery sheds light on the evolution of complex life and suggests suitable conditions for eukaryotes to thrive earlier than thought.
A new study reveals that Alaska's rainforest fjords have an incredibly high concentration of lichen diversity, with over 1300 species found in the region. The research team, led by Toby Spribille, identified more than 900 species of lichen, including 27 previously unseen species.
Scientists at the University of Alberta found that prenatal fruit exposure enhances memory consolidation in infants, suggesting a nonpharmacological intervention to improve infant cognition. The study replicated previous findings in humans and fruit flies, offering valuable information for pregnant mothers.
A study by University of Alberta scientists found that sound and visual effects on slot machines make them more attractive and winning more memorable. The researchers discovered that people prefer to play on virtual slot machines with casino-related cues, regardless of the machine's risk level.
Research identifies high-risk locations and times for disease transmission between elk and cattle, highlighting the importance of minimizing contact between species. Guidelines provide actionable steps to reduce the risk of infection.
A new University of Alberta study shows that parents who accommodate their child's snack request tend to make better food choices for themselves. The research found that caregivers who listened to their children's preferences ate fewer unhealthy snacks and more healthy ones.
University of Alberta researcher Karim Fouad found that rats with spinal injuries experienced changes in gut bacteria and anxiety-like behavior. Fecal transplants from healthy rats restored normal gut bacteria, reducing anxiety. The study suggests that gut health may play a crucial role in mental well-being after spinal cord injuries.
Research shows adolescents struggling with mental health issues have distinct neural connections that affect cognitive control and attention. The study provides new insights into the brain development of adolescents with mental health problems, potentially informing diagnosis and treatment.
A new study by University of Alberta biologists found that birds of the same species do not use the same habitats in different parts of the Canadian boreal forest. This phenomenon, known as differential habitat selection, has significant implications for conservation planning and management strategies.
A recent study from the University of Alberta suggests that many cancers, diabetes, and Alzheimer's diseases have a genetic contribution of no more than 5-10%. The research highlights the importance of metabolites, chemicals, proteins, or the microbiome in determining disease risk rather than genes.
A recent study has dated the last known occurrence of Homo erectus to between 117,000 and 108,000 years ago in Central Java, Indonesia. The research, led by Russell L. Ciochon from the University of Iowa, used modern dating technology to analyze fossils found in a bone bed at Ngandong.
A study by University of Alberta chemists identifies CD33 protein as a factor that may decrease the likelihood of Alzheimer's disease. The most common type of CD33 protein plays a crucial role in modulating microglia function, which can protect against neurodegenerative plaques.
A newly proposed model suggests the HIV-1 viral shell has a spherical matrix shape that fuses to host cells, releasing the viral capsid inside. This structure may help scientists understand the infection process and develop new treatments, such as blocking the viral entry mechanism.
A new study by University of Alberta ecologists reveals that male squirrels who move outside their population live longer and have more offspring. In contrast, female squirrels do not reap the same benefits, losing out on family support and facing fitness costs after dispersal.
Researchers describe an extremely well-preserved pterosaur specimen from the Afro-Arabian continent, shedding light on the evolutionary history of these creatures. The study suggests that this type of pterosaur likely fed on crustaceans and lived in shallow marine waters during the Late Cretaceous period.
New research from the University of Alberta sheds light on iron biology's role in three human diseases: porphyria, Andersen disease, and Wolfram syndrome. The study finds that a protein called aconitase regulates genes in the nucleus to control iron levels.
New research suggests ancient microorganisms played a critical role in setting the stage for life on a dimly lit early Earth. These microbes transformed iron into rusty minerals without oxygen and served as a food source for other microbes, producing methane that warmed the planet's atmosphere.