Researchers discovered that ancient dinosaurs inherited bipedalism from smaller proto-dinosaurs, who developed strong tail muscles. This adaptation allowed early dinosaurs to run faster and for longer distances. However, mammals lost this trait due to the need for burrowing adaptations, which required strong front limbs and short tails.
DeepStack, a computer program developed by the University of Alberta's Computer Poker Research Group, has defeated professional poker players in heads-up no-limit Texas hold'em poker. The program uses a technique called continual re-solving to determine the correct strategy for each situation, allowing it to play at human speed.
Research reveals that secondary seed dispersal by predator animals is crucial for recolonizing plants in the wild. Thick-shelled seeds benefit from passing through multiple animal digestive systems, increasing their chances of germination.
Researchers have captured images of terahertz electron dynamics of a semiconductor surface on the atomic scale, unlocking a new window into the nanoworld. The breakthrough allows for ultrafast observation of atomic processes with unprecedented precision.
A team of scientists at the University of Alberta has successfully applied atomic force microscopy to pattern and image electronic circuits at the atomic level. This breakthrough could lead to the development of ultra-fast and ultra-low-power silicon-based circuits, potentially revolutionizing the technology industry.
A study by Laurie de Grace found that the culture of sport, particularly team sports like hockey, can increase the risk of substance addiction in elite athletes. The study revealed patterns of social acceptance, normalization of drugs and alcohol, and pressure to perform, which contribute to the development of addiction.
A University of Alberta study found that supporting a partner with depression can lead to improved future mental health. Researcher Matthew Johnson recommends offering 'invisible support' and helping with daily tasks to alleviate stress.
A new study shows that specialized physical therapy exercises can improve the curve of the spine, muscle endurance and quality of life in teens with scoliosis. Researchers advocate for conservative management to be added to standard care.
Computing science researchers at the University of Alberta have developed a technique to automate geotagging for news articles and other online documents. The model integrates two competing hypotheses: inheritance and near-location, achieving high accuracy in matching named entities to geographical locations.
A University of Alberta researcher has developed a method to treat surgical masks, making them effective against airborne viruses. By using a salt-based treatment, the mask's fibre filter can trap and kill viruses, reducing the risk of transmission.
Researchers at the University of Alberta have discovered the precise atomic structure giving rise to negative differential resistance. This breakthrough enables practical applications in everyday electronics like phones and computers, promising faster, cheaper, and smaller devices.
New research shows that when focused, information is processed continuously, while ignoring stimuli is perceived in waves. This study provides insights into how the brain prioritizes attention and processing of time and space.
A landmark clinical trial conducted by researchers at the University of Alberta found that beta blockers and ACE inhibitors effectively prevent a drop in heart function from cancer treatment. The study showed improved safety for breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, with potential benefits to survival rates.
A study by the University of Alberta and Boston University found that people are more likely to recycle items bearing their name or a national flag. This association helps individuals link the item to their sense of identity, making them feel more connected and reducing negative feelings associated with discarding it.
Scientists use satellites to monitor seasonal changes in evergreen trees, providing a new tool to track the impact of climate change on northern forests. The research reveals subtle colour shifts that indicate changes in photosynthetic activity, which could accelerate or slow down global warming.
Researchers develop atomic-scale manufacturing technology, creating ultra-efficient general-purpose computers and quantum computers that consume significantly less power. The discovery has the potential to revolutionize the digital economy and lead to a more sustainable future.
New research reveals that ancient rocks can supply energy to microorganisms kilometers below Earth's surface through reactions between water and minerals. This discovery has significant implications for the search for life on Mars, where similar geological settings may support microbial life.
A new study finds that bird-like dinosaurs were social animals, living and dying together in groups. The discovery of a rare bonebed in Mongolia highlights the increasing trend of gregariousness in dinosaurs and emphasizes the need to protect against fossil poaching.
A new device can rapidly identify harmful bacteria and determine its susceptibility to antibiotics in a matter of minutes. The device uses nano-scale technology to detect bacteria in extremely small fluid samples, offering a potential solution to the growing problem of drug-resistant strains.
Bacteria can form biofilms that break and float away, spreading infection. Researchers are studying the conditions under which these biofilms break down.
Researchers from the University of Alberta have calculated significant energy savings of up to 31% and cost savings of up to 11% for light rail transit systems using flywheel technology. This innovative approach stores energy generated during braking, reducing power consumption and costs.
Scientists have discovered a 'space tsunami' that creates the third Van Allen Belt, a region of intense radiation in space. This finding helps mitigate the effects of extreme space weather and has significant implications for satellite operations and human exploration.
Researchers at the University of Alberta have developed a new method for making thin films using atomic layer deposition (ALD), reducing waste and potentially cutting precursor costs. The technique involves pulsing gas into the chamber to free up blocked receptors, increasing efficiency in manufacturing processes.
A University of Alberta study uses gentle vibrations to identify structural changes in the spine, altering its vibration response significantly. The findings show the viability of vibration as a diagnostic tool to improve MRI utilization and potentially diagnose new conditions.
A University of Alberta study found PRP injections to be effective in improving tissue healing, reducing pain, and increasing mobility in patients with chronically sore shoulders. The treatment involves injecting platelet-rich plasma into the affected area to augment the body's natural healing response.
Researchers at the University of Alberta have developed a groundbreaking technique to connect neurons using femtosecond laser pulses. This breakthrough allows for complete control over cell connection processes, enabling researchers to conduct experiments that would be impossible with traditional methods.
Researchers at the University of Alberta have invented a new transistor that could revolutionize thin-film electronic devices with its bipolar action architecture. The device has power-handling capabilities up to 10 times greater than commercially produced transistors, making it suitable for flexible electronics applications.
A University of Alberta study found that patients without opioid prescriptions experienced improved physical functioning and reduced disability compared to those who received opioid treatment for neuropathic pain. The research suggests a graded approach to physical activity may help improve function despite chronic pain.
A team of researchers tracked a rare 66-million-year-old tyrannosaur footprint trail in Wyoming, shedding new light on the dinosaur's speed and hunting habits. The study suggests that even young tyrannosaurs were capable of rapid movement, challenging previous theories about their sluggish nature.
Researchers have published the results of their scientific findings on a juvenile Chasmosaurus, one of the rarest dinosaur discoveries. The study provides new insights into the evolution and life history of horned dinosaurs.
A new longitudinal study by University of Alberta researchers contradicts the 'mid-life crisis' theory, showing happiness rises between the teens and early 40s. The study found that people are happier in their mid-40s than they were at age 18.
Researchers at the University of Alberta investigated past changes in Earth's core rotation to understand global sea-level rise. They found a correlation between the slowing down of Earth's rotation and the increase in sea levels over the past century.
A landmark clinical trial shows that beta blockers and ACE inhibitors effectively prevent heart function drop in patients with early-stage breast cancer. The study suggests these medications can improve breast cancer survival rates by limiting interruptions to chemotherapy treatment.
Scientists have successfully simulated 3D models of deep jet streams and storms on Jupiter and Saturn, revealing their dynamics and providing clues to Earth's weather patterns. The study helps clarify the origin and behavior of these features, which remain debated among researchers.
Scientists found evidence of O2 fluctuations in Western Australian rocks, suggesting a temporary increase in atmospheric oxygen levels around 2.5 billion years ago. The data supports the 'Great Oxidation Event' theory, where multiple 'whiffs' of O2 accumulated until a tipping point was crossed.
Researchers from University of Alberta engaged citizen scientists to investigate the effects of bird feeders on bird-window collisions. The study found that the presence of a bird feeder does indicate collision risk, but other factors like vegetation and house characteristics also play a role.
A team of physicists at the University of Alberta has created a method to measure magnetic resonance using mechanical twisting motion detected with light, enabling the miniaturization of magnetic sensors. This technology opens up possibilities for various scientific applications in healthcare, technology, and energy.
A new study from the University of Alberta suggests that men's fair contribution to housework is linked to more frequent and satisfying sex in their relationships. The research found no correlation between the amount of housework completed and sexual functioning, contradicting previous studies.
A recent discovery of an Ornithomimus dinosaur with preserved tail feathers and soft tissue is shedding light on the convergent evolution between dinosaurs and birds. The findings suggest that these dinosaurs used feathered regions to regulate body temperature, similar to modern ostriches.
Researchers found that spinal manipulation provides immediate benefits for some patients with low-back pain, but has no effect on others. The study suggests that different groups of people respond differently to the treatment, highlighting the complexity of low-back pain and the need for personalized care.
A new species of lizard, Gueragama sulamericana, has been found in Southern Brazil, pushing back the known origin of acrodontan lizards to 80 million years ago. This discovery sheds light on the migration patterns of ancient species and challenges existing hypotheses on lizard evolution.
Researchers have identified six additional species of carnivorous theropods from isolated teeth in the South Pyrenees Basin in Spain. The study quadrupled the known diversity of dinosaur fossils in the area, providing new insights into the evolution and extinction of these creatures.
A pilot study by researchers at ISTAR found that video self-modelling (VSM) helps reduce stuttering frequency in adults who experienced relapse after therapy. Participants watched videos of themselves speaking fluently, with improved results for those viewing their videos regularly.
A worldwide study found a consistent biological rule governing the relationship between plant biomass and species diversity in grassland ecosystems. Plant species diversity is generally greatest at intermediate levels of plant biomass. The research has implications for managing and conserving grassland biodiversity globally.
University of Alberta researchers have created a natural supplement from chicken egg yolks that prevents the absorption of gliadin, a component of gluten causing damage to the small intestine in people with celiac disease. The supplement aims to improve the quality of life for those affected by gluten intolerance.
University of Alberta scientists investigate physical principles underlying prion protein formation, with potential applications for diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Their recent discovery sheds light on microscopic mechanisms governing protein misfolding, offering a new step towards developing therapeutics.
A multimillion-dollar research partnership at the University of Alberta is developing small molecules that can reactivate a patient's immune system to fight cancer. The team plans to have a 'lead structure' drug ready by the end of the second year, with the potential for human trials by 2020.
The Alberta Cancer Exercise (ACE) pilot study explores a community-based approach to support cancer survivors in regaining their strength and energy levels. Participants receive either standard care or supervised group exercise training, showing promising results for improved physical fitness and mental well-being.
Using advanced flow cytometry, University of Alberta scientists rapidly detect outbreaks of potentially toxic cyanobacteria, providing timely information to the public and notifying health officials. This helps prevent human health risks from toxic blue-green algae in lakes throughout Alberta.
A study published in the Journal of the American Pharmacists Association found that having pharmacists on primary care teams improved the treatment of blood pressure in patients with Type 2 diabetes. The addition of pharmacists led to substantial improvements in patient health, including a significant impact on blood pressure control.