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University of Alberta


Is oil pricing itself out of the market?

U of A researchers explore hypothetical economic models that suggest oil producers should pay attention to emerging alternatives. If an alternative resource becomes more economically attractive, oil producers may have to adjust to make sure they don't hasten their own obsolescence.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Environmental Economics and Management·DateAug 19, 2011

Climate change forces early spring

A University of Alberta study found that climate change has pushed the province's native wildflowers and trees into earlier blooming times, making them more vulnerable to frost damage. The average winter monthly temperature increased by 5.3 degrees Celsius over 70 years, with bloom dates advancing two weeks for early spring species

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalBioScience·DateJul 6, 2011

New study reduces threat level for caribou in Alberta's oilsands country

A new study has reduced the threat level for caribou in Alberta's oilsands country by revealing that their survival isn't as threatened as previously thought. The researchers found that it is not merely the presence of roads and cut lines, but the intensity of human activity such as noise levels that has the biggest effect on the animals.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateJun 21, 2011

BMI differences: The immigrant equation

A recent study analyzing data from 6,400 low-income immigrant children in Montreal reveals that their BMI drops significantly as they grow up in Canada. The 'healthy immigrant effect' seen in adult immigrants is lost in successive generations of children.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalAnnals of Epidemiology·DateMay 5, 2011

Treatment for depression a long-term solution

Research suggests that treatment for depression may have long-term benefits, with depressed adults who use antidepressants being three times less likely to be depressed eight years later. Cognitive behavioral therapy has also been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of depression.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Psychiatric Research·DateApr 7, 2011

Mountain pine beetle marching east from Alberta

The mountain pine beetle has invaded jack pine forests in Alberta, successfully jumping species from its main host to the dominant Canadian boreal forest tree. Researchers tracked the infestation's progress across Alberta, finding the insects as far east as Slave Lake, and plan further research to estimate their potential speed of spread.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateApr 4, 2011

Gas versus groceries

University of Alberta researchers argue that grocery retailers need to change their tactics in the face of rising gas prices to attract shoppers. To survive, they must provide one-stop shopping and promotions that offer value to customers, such as discounted fuel prices or savings incentives from in-store purchases.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateMar 10, 2011

New ground broken on aggression research

A study by U of A Psychology researcher Peter Hurd found that less sensitive genes were associated with more aggressive behaviour, suggesting a possible link between fetal testosterone exposure and adult social behavior. The researchers also discovered subtle forms of aggression, such as indirect aggression through gossip-like behaviors.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalBehavior Genetics·DateDec 7, 2010

Study shows behaviors and attitudes towards oral sex are changing

A study by University of Alberta researcher Brea Malacad reveals shifting behaviors and attitudes towards oral sex among young women. The findings indicate that while some view oral sex as less intimate than intercourse, others see it as equally or more intimate. Additionally, the research highlights the need for sex educators to catch...

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalThe European Journal of Contraception & Reproductive Health Care·DateAug 11, 2010