Scientists have developed an atomic-scale manufacturing tool that speeds up data storage and increases computing power for artificial intelligence. This breakthrough could eliminate a gigatonne of carbon emissions while improving data capacities.
Researchers have found a well-preserved Styracosaurus skull with asymmetrical horns, challenging traditional identification methods. The discovery reveals morphological variability in dinosaur skulls, leading to reevaluation of previously assumed species.
A new study reveals that ancient legged snakes had a cheekbone nearly 100 million years ago, contradicting previous assumptions about their body shape and evolutionary history. The research provides critical insight into the evolution of modern snake skulls using advanced micro-computed tomography scanning.
A new study reveals that genes from soil bacteria were transferred to algae through horizontal gene transfer, allowing early life to move from water to land. This process, known as terrestrialization, marked a crucial event in the evolution of life on Earth.
Researchers at the University of Alberta found that blocking natural cannabinoid receptors in zebrafish has detrimental effects on development, including reduced muscle innervation and locomotor activity. These findings suggest long-term negative consequences for fish even as adults.
Researchers at the University of Alberta have identified a crucial role for the nucleus reuniens in coordinating memory consolidation during slow-wave sleep. The study suggests that this area may play an essential part in turning short-term memories into long-term ones.
The One Thousand Plant Transcriptomes Initiative reveals the timing of whole genome duplications and the origins of key gene families contributing to fundamental genetic innovations in green plants. The study provides a framework for understanding plant diversity and evolutionary innovations.
Researchers found that brain actively filters out background noise, with fluid outdoor sounds causing the largest effect on focus. The study uses wearable EEG technology to measure brain activity in different environments, paving the way for more realistic neurotechnology design.
Researchers detected uniform chemical signatures in kimberlites that resemble the building blocks of Earth formed 4.55 billion years ago. The discovery provides critical insight into the planet's formation and evolution.
Researchers uncover unique tooth for preening feathers and establish distinct lineage between North American and Asian dromaeosaurids. The discovery provides valuable insight into the evolution of theropod dinosaurs around the world.
A recent study from University of Alberta researchers suggests there may be no relationship between near misses and continued play, contrary to widely held beliefs. The study found that despite brain activity changes and subjective measurements, conclusive evidence for a near-miss effect on gambling persistence is lacking.
Researchers found that viewing memories in the third person reduces vividness and emotion, while recalling experiences in the first person strengthens memory. Virtual reality technology is being used to explore how perspective influences memory formation.
A US land-use program has led to a rebound in white-tailed deer numbers and other wildlife in North Dakota. The Conservation Reserve Program provides permanent cover and high-quality forage, promoting fawn survival and increasing biodiversity.
A study of 554 people in Germany found that most relationship aspects remained stable across past and present relationships, with only two exceptions: frequency of sex and expressing admiration. Despite initial differences, the level of sexual satisfaction tended to stay the same.
Glacier-fed rivers in Canada's north are actively consuming atmospheric CO2, according to a University of Alberta study. Chemical weathering is the process behind this phenomenon, involving interactions between glacial sediments and melt waters with the atmosphere.
A recent study by University of Alberta scientists found that both humans and black-capped chickadees can detect high-arousal vocalizations from other species. This ability suggests an innate capacity for understanding emotional states through sound, shared among vocal learners like humans and songbirds.
Computing scientists at the University of Alberta developed a methodology combining machine-learning algorithms to recognize depression using acoustic cues. The technology could lead to apps tracking mood indicators and providing support for individuals.
Small mammals use roadside vegetation foraging in Canada, contrary to assumptions that wildlife passages are only for crossing. The study suggests maintaining habitat between highways could attract animals to roads, increasing the risk of collisions.
Scientists have developed a new method to detect signs of early life in ancient rock formations by analyzing high concentrations of potassium. This approach is promising as it could help identify the presence of microorganisms in sedimentary rocks dating back 2.1 billion years.
A team of international microbiologists warn that ignoring microorganisms in climate change could lead to dire consequences. They advocate for improved literacy about the topic to address the climate disaster and encourage future generations to understand the microbial world.
New research from University of Alberta scientists suggests the Canadian Rockies were formed through a westward collision event more than 100 million years ago. This finding challenges the traditional accretion model and instead proposes a sudden collision event between two continents.
A new model developed by marine biologists has revealed that reef fish enter the 'danger zone' around invasive lionfish at similar rates to native predators. The study found that prey are up to twice as likely to be captured by lionfish than by native predators, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect vulnerable species.
Researchers developed a new technique to study the structure of silicon nanocrystals, revealing disordered layers on the surface and crystalline cores. This discovery can lead to optimized functions and tailored applications for various fields, including battery development and medical imaging.
Research shows sediment stirred up by human activity is harming glass sea sponges in northern British Columbia. The sediment can smother sponges from the outside or clog their filtration system, leading to sponge death and ecosystem disruption.
Researchers confirm that banded iron formations formed through oxidation of ferrous iron, rejecting a newly proposed model. The study provides strong evidence for existing models and our current understanding of these sedimentary rocks.
A recent study by Donna Wilson reveals that 48-91% of older adults experience ageism, while 50-98% of younger people admit to discriminatory thoughts or behaviors. The research highlights the need for more comprehensive surveys and anti-ageism legislation to address this pressing issue.
Researchers used CRISPR-Cas9 to engineer cassava plants resistant to viruses, but found mutated viruses that evolved resistance instead, threatening crop yields. The study warns of potential unintended consequences of gene-editing technology in agriculture.
Researchers found a new species of 90-95 million-year-old crab fossil with multiple marine arthropod characteristics, showcasing an unusual branch on the crustacean tree of life. The exceptional preservation allowed detailed reconstruction and 3D-printer-ready models.
Research suggests that eclogitic diamonds originate from oceanic crust, not marine sediments, providing new insights into diamond formation and the deep carbon cycle. The study found that the oceanic crust contains a large reservoir of carbon, which is then recycled into diamonds in Earth's mantle.
A study published in Nature Genetics has identified a gene responsible for cadmium accumulation in durum wheat, a toxic metal that poses serious health risks. The discovery enables the rapid development of low-cadmium durum wheats, increasing the quality and safety of pasta and couscous.
A new study by University of Alberta biologists reveals that feather mites may be beneficial to birds, helping remove bacteria and fungi from their feathers. The researchers found that vane-dwelling feather mites feed mainly on fungi and bacteria, rather than bird feathers.
A new publication outlines objectives for Mars Sample Return campaign, providing a blueprint for answering key questions about Mars. The University of Alberta is home to a vast collection of meteorites and experts like Chris Herd emphasize the importance of returning samples from Mars with context.
New research by University of Alberta scientists reveals that gesturing frequency is more closely tied to the way people tell a story than their cultural background. Studies with bilingual participants found that those speaking in chronological order tend to gesture more than those focusing on moral or meaning behind a story.
Research suggests genetic tagging is a powerful tool for ecology and conservation, providing non-invasive methods to track animal populations. The method offers benefits over traditional approaches, such as scalability, precision, and cost-effectiveness.
Scientists have discovered the largest dinosaur skeleton ever found in Canada, a 13-metre-long Tyrannosaurus rex named Scotty. The ancient predator is estimated to have weighed over 8,800 kg and lived around 66 million years ago.
Researchers at the University of Alberta found bacterial pathogens in single-celled algae can induce apoptosis, a process previously thought to occur only in large organisms. This discovery has broad implications for developing targeted antibiotics and producing biofuels from algae.
Newly discovered fossilized tracks suggest that multicellular organisms could be 1.5 billion years older than previously thought, with origins dating back to 2.1 billion years ago. This discovery has sparked debate and skepticism among researchers, who are exploring alternative explanations for the early emergence of complex life.
Researchers developed a new tool, NIR-GECO1, to visualize neural activity using near-infrared light, enabling deeper brain imaging. This breakthrough has implications for understanding brain functions and disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases.
A recent study found that wolf lichens may harbor multiple fungi, challenging the long-held view of a single fungus and alga. The research team used genome sequencing to analyze the composition of these organisms.
Researchers at the University of Alberta found alpine zooplankton to be excellent indicators of lake health, sensitive to climate changes. By analyzing over 1,200 lakes across North America, the team showed that these tiny organisms can assess ecosystem function based on their ecological traits.
New research by University of Alberta biologists found that wolves decrease their movement rates and travel shorter distances during snowfall events. The effects were most pronounced at night, when wolves hunt, and behavior returned to normal within a day.
Researchers at the University of Alberta have identified a potential new treatment for ALS by repurposing an existing medication called telbivudine. The drug targets the toxic properties of SOD1, a misfolding protein that causes toxicity in patients with ALS.
Researchers have discovered a way to create atomic-scale binary logic that powers faster and more energy-efficient electronics. This breakthrough could lead to significant reductions in power consumption and pave the way for sustainable, green technology.
Researchers have identified three biomarkers in saliva samples to detect mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease. The study uses metabolomics to analyze over 6,000 compounds, showing promising results for a potential clinical test.
New research reveals record amounts of mercury released into waterways through thawing permafrost, contaminating downstream ecosystems. Climate change exacerbates the issue, highlighting the need for further study on mercury cycling and its impact on Arctic food webs.
A new dating technique has pushed the formation of Earth's cobalt deposits back by 100-150 million years, according to a University of Alberta study. This revised timeline offers a fresh perspective on the global distribution of cobalt and its potential for sustainable exploration and mining.
Researchers found that high levels of oxygen encourage deep, restorative sleep by switching brains into a deactivated state. This stage is crucial for recovery, brain clearance, and memory consolidation, making it a key target for potential oxygen therapy in humans.
Researchers have identified hydrotalcites as capable of capturing CO2 in mine tailings, potentially improving carbon sequestration beneath the surface. The study found that these minerals can trap CO2 deeper into the tailings than carbonate minerals could, offering a new approach to reducing atmospheric emissions.
Researchers found that traditional leisure options are well-regarded by residents, but additional investment in tertiary recreation is beneficial for greater municipal investment. Fort McMurray's response to community facilities suggests a need for adaptable approaches to providing recreation and leisure.
A University of Alberta study found that two types of word predictors determine funniness: form predictors measure word sound and writing similarity, while semantic predictors relate to emotions and categories like sex and bodily functions.