A 12-month home exercise program reduced fall rates by 36% in high-risk seniors with a history of falls and mobility impairments. The study found improved cognitive function as a secondary benefit, reducing risk of injury and loss of independence for older adults.
New research from the University of British Columbia suggests that chronic low-quality sleep is associated with poorer health outcomes among young B.C. students. Kids who regularly had trouble falling or staying asleep were almost two and half times as likely to report sub-optimal health compared to those who did not.
A new study examining phone snooping found that 25 out of 46 participants reported their relationships survived the snooping, while 21 ended. The study highlights human factors in digital security and the importance of trusting those who access your phone.
A new study from the University of British Columbia found that steroid inhalers can lower lung cancer risk in COPD patients. The research, published in European Respiratory Journal, analyzed data from 39,676 adults with COPD and found a 25-30% reduction in lung cancer risk among those using steroids.
A team of scientists from top universities and Google is investigating cold fusion, a type of benign nuclear reaction that could offer an attractive option for decarbonizing the global energy system. The research collaboration has produced promising new insights into metal-hydrogen interactions and has not yet found evidence of the phe...
Researchers developed a new method to estimate cumulative human impact for individual species, revealing threatened seahorses in data-poor regions. The study found China, Southeast Asia, and Europe as major threat epicentres for global seahorse populations.
Researchers have identified a genetic variant influencing the age of onset in Huntington disease, beyond just the length of the expansion mutation. This new predictor may enable families with additional information and improve disease management by providing genetic counsellors with valuable data.
Researchers at the University of British Columbia have developed a specialized microscope that can diagnose diseases like skin cancer and perform precise surgery without cutting skin. The technology uses ultrafast infrared lasers to scan tissue quickly and selectively treat diseased structures.
Researchers have successfully lowered levels of mutant huntingtin protein in patients with Huntington disease, making the treatment safe and well-tolerated. The trial enrolled 46 patients and found significant decreases in disease-causing protein levels without serious adverse reactions.
A new study by University of British Columbia researchers found a correlation between excessive engagement with loot boxes and measures of problem gambling, but not problem video gaming. Loot box use was associated with risky gambling behaviours, suggesting that the feature may be contributing to gambling-like problems in gamers.
A new international study found that regulators in four countries - including Canada - were only consistent in the decision to warn about potential drug safety risks 10% of the time. This lack of consistency highlights a need for better communication of important drug safety notices.
A new study from the University of British Columbia found that teenagers prefer harm reduction messaging when discussing substance use, instead of traditional 'don't do drugs' approaches. The study's findings suggest that a non-judgmental approach to talking about substance use can help preserve family relationships and promote youth h...
Researchers at the University of British Columbia found that mice segregate their living and waste areas, suggesting a need for 'en suite bathrooms' in laboratory settings. The study showed that mice create separate compartments for nesting and eliminating waste, moving bedding and materials between cages to maintain comfort.
A new study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice suggests that oral immunotherapy is safe for preschool-aged children with peanut allergies. Researchers followed 270 children who received oral immunotherapy and found that 90% reached the maintenance stage successfully.
Researchers have identified a rarely-seen type of DNA mutation as the cause of an inherited metabolic disorder, a condition where the body can't break down specific nutrients. The gene responsible for the disorder is intact but a repeat expansion error prevents it from functioning.
A study published in Marine Policy found that 97% of sharks and rays caught in the Mediterranean and Black seas are not reported, putting them at risk of extinction. The lack of reporting makes it difficult to detect declines and design effective measures to protect threatened species.
A new species of coral-dwelling parasite has been discovered, producing chlorophyll but not engaging in photosynthesis. The finding raises questions about the evolution and biology of this organism, which may hold clues to protecting coral reefs.
A study by University of British Columbia researchers found that one in ten Canadians prefer open relationships, with 12% reporting this as their ideal type. Despite the prevalence, stigma and difficulty discussing preferences may deter individuals from pursuing these relationships.
A new paper suggests that diseases can be more lethal in new hosts with larger evolutionary jumps between species. This research uses data from the World Organisation for Animal Health to track diseases across domesticated mammals and their outcomes.
A recent study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that younger groups of organisms diversify faster than older ones, challenging traditional explanations for the Tree of Life's imbalance. This suggests that time-dependent general principles govern life's diversity on Earth, operating beneath other factors
Plant cellulose-based aerogel implants have shown 33% more bone growth in rats at three weeks and 50% more at 12 weeks compared to controls. The innovation has the potential to fill a $2-billion market with economical raw materials and applications in dental and joint replacement surgeries.
A UBC study found that beta interferon treatment for multiple sclerosis patients is associated with a 32% lower mortality risk compared to those who did not take the drug. The study followed nearly 6,000 people with MS in Canada and France over two decades.
Researchers developed a new approach to treat ischemic strokes by blocking hemichannels, reducing brain damage. The approach also showed potential for treating other neurodegenerative conditions.
Engineers at the University of British Columbia have created a three-dimensional computer model of bat flight, capturing its complexity for the first time. This breakthrough could lead to better drone design and efficient aerial vehicles.
Small-scale fishermen in six European countries prioritize trust, transparency, and fairness over ecological effectiveness when supporting marine protected areas. Perceptions of social impacts and good governance processes are stronger predictors of local support than ecological effectiveness.
A new study published in Frontiers in Physiology found that farmed Atlantic salmon's respiratory systems function normally even when carrying large loads of the piscine orthoreovirus. The research, conducted at the University of British Columbia, suggests that infected fish do not experience significant harm to their physiology.
An international research team developed a new technique to analyze vast amounts of data from tiny amounts of newborn blood, revealing molecular changes in the first week of life. The study provides a common developmental pathway for this period, enabling further understanding of newborn health and vaccine impact.
Researchers analyzed honey from urban beehives to detect pollutants like lead and zinc. The study found higher element concentrations near downtown areas with heavy traffic and industrial activity, suggesting potential manmade sources of pollution.
A study by University of British Columbia found that Canadians' fruit and vegetable intake decreased by 13% between 2004 and 2015. Despite this decline, the average daily intake of healthy components like whole grains, fish, and legumes remained stable.
New research by University of British Columbia shows LGBTQ Americans dispersing and diversifying their living spaces beyond traditional gayborhoods. The study reveals a range of emerging neighborhoods catering to specific subgroups within the LGBTQ community, including queer communities of color and same-sex couples with children.
A new study reveals that despite export bans and international regulations, the global seahorse trade continues to thrive through illegal channels. The research found that 95% of dried seahorses sold in Hong Kong's large market came from source countries with export bans in place.
A new study found that achieving the Paris Agreement's 1.5 degrees Celsius warming target could increase global fishers' revenues and seafood workers' income, while reducing household expenditures. The largest gains would occur in developing countries, with a projected 6.5% increase in top revenue-generating fish species globally.
Scientists at the University of British Columbia have discovered a new protein 'switch' that can stop the progression of sepsis, a life-threatening disease. This discovery could lead to new treatments for chronic and acute inflammatory diseases.
A new study from the University of British Columbia found that neighbourhood income and education level are associated with an increased risk of disability progression in patients with multiple sclerosis. The research suggests that modifiable lifestyle factors, such as diet and exercise, could be involved in this relationship.
A University of British Columbia study found that automated photo enforcement programs significantly reduce property-related crimes, in addition to collisions, by deterring unsafe driving behaviors. Researchers developed a planning chart to optimize the deployment of mobile speed enforcement units.
A large-scale experiment found seed predation increased by 2.6% for every 10 degrees of latitude toward the Equator and by 0.4% for every 100-metre decline in elevation. Invertebrates, such as insects, played a key role in these interactions.
Researchers at UBC have discovered a protein called podocalyxin that plays a key role in protecting the brain from harmful blood components during inflammation. The study's findings could lead to the development of new treatments for stroke, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis by inducing temporary opening of the blood-brain barrier.
Researchers developed a ball-shaped VR display that supports up to two users, creating a distortion-free 3D image from any angle. This allows for collaborative tasks and multiplayer games while maintaining social interaction.
A unique program called Reclaiming our Spirits, which integrated elder-led circles and cultural elements, showed significant improvement in symptoms of trauma and depression among Indigenous women. Participants reported better quality of life, greater self-empowerment, and felt more supported by their family and community.
A new study reveals that marine fishing vessels release almost as much CO2 as 51 coal-fired power plants, with a total of 207-million tonnes emitted in 2016. The researchers found that the industry's reliance on fossil fuel and lack of policy management has led to a significant increase in emissions.
Researchers found that VR stimuli trigger contagious yawning at similar rates to real-life, but social presence has little effect in virtual reality. In contrast, actual human presence significantly reduces yawning in both settings.
A new test for pediatric tumour analysis has been developed that may provide faster diagnosis times and more accurate genetic mutation detection. The test uses DNA sequencing technology to identify weaknesses in tumor cells that can be targeted with drugs, offering potential improvements in treatment options for children with cancer.
A new review by UBC researchers found that up to one-third of pregnant women do not believe cannabis is harmful to their fetus. The study suggests that perceptions about cannabis use influence decision-making among pregnant women. Women who used cannabis during pregnancy were more likely to be under 25, unemployed, or have low income a...
A new study by the University of British Columbia found that people with higher incomes and more education tend to have greater access to urban green spaces than their less privileged neighbors. The study highlights the need for wider distribution of trees, shrubs, and pocket parks as cities continue to expand.
Researchers have developed a breakthrough technology to grow human blood vessels as organoids in a petri dish, which can be used to study vascular diseases and identify potential treatments. The discovery has the potential to unravel causes of conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer.
A genomic analysis by University of British Columbia researchers found that northern goshawks on Haida Gwaii have a highly distinct genetic cluster, with only around 50 birds remaining. The study adds context to conservation efforts and highlights the need to protect this vulnerable population.
A new study finds that high-status individuals increasingly prioritize sustainable and ethical foods over traditional gourmet options. Those who consider themselves both foodies and ethical eaters tend to have higher socioeconomic status, with many earning over $100,000.
Researchers at University of British Columbia discovered that gulls can adapt their wing shape to gusty conditions by flexing a single elbow joint, which could inspire improved aircraft design. This novel mechanism enables gulls to sacrifice stability for maneuverability.
A UBC-Western study found that respectful, inclusive practices in primary care clinics can improve the health of marginalized individuals. Researchers developed modules to promote equity-oriented care and interviewed 395 individuals, finding reduced pain, depression, and trauma symptoms.
A new study found that a simple online game can teach people to sort waste correctly with lasting results. Players who received immediate feedback on their sorting choices showed significant improvements in accuracy, even after multiple sessions.