Bowhead whales come to Cumberland Sound in Nunavut to exfoliate
Researchers observed bowhead whales rubbing against rocks in Cumberland Sound, Nunavut, to remove dead skin. The warmer coastal waters may facilitate molting during summer months.
University of British Columbia
Alzheimer's disease might be a 'whole body' problem
Research suggests that amyloid-beta, a toxic protein, can travel to the brain from other parts of the body, contributing to Alzheimer's disease. This discovery offers hope for new drug therapies that target the kidneys or liver to prevent the protein from reaching the brain.
Canadian study of gender-affirming surgery highlights patients' long, frustrating journey
A Canadian study found that transgender patients seeking gender-affirming surgical care face complex pathways and long wait times, with many traveling hours to access publicly funded surgeries. The research highlights the need for improved access and training for healthcare providers to support these patients.
Herbivores help protect ecosystems from climate change
Researchers found that herbivores, such as limpets, play a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem diversity and resilience. By controlling temperatures and promoting biodiversity, these species can mitigate the effects of climate change on intertidal ecosystems.
New genetic clue to peanut allergy
Researchers have identified a new gene associated with peanut allergy, suggesting a role in general allergic predisposition. The study's findings suggest potential targets for predicting and managing food allergy treatments.
SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateOct 11, 2017
A lesson for Canada: Quebec pharmacare system creates winners and losers
A study found that Quebec's system increased access to medicines for working population but came at a cost of $200 more per person than the rest of Canada. The private-public model disproportionately affects low-income individuals and families, with premiums exceeding three percent of household income.
Road pricing most effective in reducing vehicle emissions
A review of over 60 studies found road pricing to be the most effective strategy to reduce emissions and traffic. Low-emission zones also encourage cleaner vehicles and reduce driving, leading to improved air quality.
Lower education and income linked to higher suicide risks for gay and bisexual men
A new study from the University of British Columbia has linked lower education and income to higher suicide risks among gay and bisexual men. The research found that these individuals have more than five times the odds of attempting suicide compared to their more advantaged peers.
Some marine species more vulnerable to climate change than others
A UBC study identified 294 marine species that will be highly vulnerable to climate change by 2050. These species have limited temperature ranges, restricted geographic ranges, and specific habitat requirements making them more susceptible to climate change.
Going diving in the tropics? Don't eat the reef fish!
A new study suggests that Palau's reefs can be better maintained by shifting seafood consumption to open water fish. The health of reefs is critical for local communities' culture, food security and livelihoods. Researchers recommend a 70% reduction in reef fish consumption to mitigate climate change impacts.
Early guidance can help future moms fight fear of childbirth
A University of British Columbia study suggests that providing women with early knowledge about pregnancy and childbirth can help reduce unnecessary Caesarean deliveries. Young women who had sufficient information on childbirth preferred vaginal births over Caesarean deliveries by a significant margin.
Health care, education key to keeping women offenders out of prison
A new study finds that basic primary health care and education are crucial for women leaving provincial prisons, addressing trauma, addiction, and chronic diseases. Researchers suggest partnership programs between the health, education, and criminal justice ministries to improve outcomes.
Changes in Earth's crust caused oxygen to fill the atmosphere
Researchers found that changes in the Earth's crust led to the accumulation of oxygen in the atmosphere around 2.4 billion years ago. This period, known as the Great Oxidation Event, paved the way for the evolution of complex life on Earth.
You're not alone in feeling alone
A study found that university students consistently believe their peers have more friends than they do, affecting their happiness. This misperception can be corrected through interventions to promote friendship formation, supporting students' transition to university life.
SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateSep 14, 2017
Running group helps half its graduates quit smoking
A new UBC study found that joining a running group can help individuals successfully quit smoking, with half of participants able to stop smoking after completing a 10-week program. Participants who stuck it out showed significant improvement in mental health and reduced their smoking habits.
New Canadian telescope will map largest volume of space ever surveyed
The Canadian Hydrogen Intensity Mapping Experiment (CHIME) telescope is a revolutionary radio telescope that will create a three-dimensional map of the universe, extending deep into space and time. By measuring dark energy, scientists will better understand the shape, structure, and fate of the universe.
US investors shun Quebec firms
A new study found significant US institutional investor bias against Quebec firms compared to those in the rest of Canada. Researchers discovered that US holdings in Quebec firms were a quarter lower than those in other Canadian provinces, with biases varying by firm characteristics.
Perfect mannequins a turnoff for some consumers
A UBC study found that consumers with low self-esteem are more likely to dislike clothing on mannequins, while those with higher self-esteem see no issue. The effect was not seen in less aesthetically pleasing mannequin displays.
New osteoporosis treatment uses traditional Chinese herb to prevent bone loss
Researchers at the University of British Columbia have developed a new osteoporosis treatment using a compound derived from red sage, selectively blocking Cathepsin K enzyme activity in bone tissue. This approach may prevent negative side effects associated with current treatments.
Canadian children's nutrition suffers during school hours
A new UBC study found that Canadian children consume approximately one-third of their daily calories during school hours, but intake of dairy products and key nutrients is lower, while less nutritious foods like sugar-sweetened beverages are relatively higher.
Warmer waters from climate change will leave fish shrinking, gasping for air
Fish are expected to shrink by 20-30% in size as ocean temperatures rise due to climate change. This decline is caused by gill-oxygen limitation theory, where the surface area of gills cannot supply enough oxygen for a larger body.
New malaria analysis method reveals disease severity in minutes
Researchers at the University of British Columbia developed a novel method to assess malaria progression using RBC deformability, which can indicate hemin-induced oxidative stress. This simple microfluidic device can determine RBC rigidity in minutes, providing a valuable tool for disease diagnosis and treatment.
Isotope fingerprints in feathers reveal songbirds' secret breeding grounds
Scientists used isotope signatures to determine where Myrtle warblers breed during the summer, finding they migrate from Vancouver's Pacific Coast to these high latitude areas. This discovery highlights adaptations for longer migrations and potentially genetic influences on migration routes.
Algorithms that can sketch, recreate 3-D shapes
Researchers developed FlowRep to create design sketches of everyday objects, leveraging insights from Gestalt psychology. The algorithm can produce comparable sketches to professional designers, with potential implications for 3D printing and fabrication.
Breakthrough software teaches computer characters to walk, run, even play soccer
Researchers at the University of British Columbia have developed a breakthrough algorithm called DeepLoco that enables computer characters to learn complex motor skills like walking and running through trial and error. The system uses deep reinforcement learning to allow characters to respond to their environment without hand-coding st...
UBC research unearths Canadian sapphires fit for a queen
Researchers at UBC have discovered a unique sequence of pressure and temperature events required to form high-quality Canadian sapphires. This discovery will facilitate gemstone exploration in southern Baffin Island and potentially unlock new sources worldwide.
Hostage situation or harmony? Researchers rethink symbiosis
A new study reveals that certain microorganisms in symbiotic relationships are constantly being replaced and discarded by their hosts. The researchers found that the genome of these microorganisms undergoes significant changes, losing genes over time and ceasing to be useful to the host.
Trees can make or break city weather
A new study found that trees can increase wind speed by a factor of two when removed, making it more challenging for pedestrians to walk. Trees also reduced the impact of wind pressure on buildings, particularly through small gaps, and contributed to a more comfortable environment.
Smart surface enables advanced manipulation of droplets
Researchers at the University of British Columbia developed a smart surface that can repel and absorb liquids, controlled by applying electric potential. The copper-based surface exhibits rapid and reversible changes in wetting behavior, making it suitable for various industrial and consumer applications.
Immune cells the missing ingredient in new bladder cancer treatment
Researchers identified a cellular signaling pathway blocking immune cell infiltration into bladder tumors, explaining the limited success of checkpoint immunotherapy. The finding suggests targeting this pathway could enhance treatment effectiveness when combined with checkpoint immunotherapy.
Using money to buy time linked to increased happiness
Research at the University of British Columbia and Harvard Business School found that spending money on time-saving purchases leads to greater life satisfaction. The study surveyed over 6,000 adults across four countries and controlled for income, revealing that buying time has similar benefits as having more money.
SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 24, 2017
Steering an enzyme's 'scissors' shows potential for stopping Alzheimer's disease
Researchers at the University of British Columbia have found that changing where an enzyme cuts a protein precursor can reduce amyloid beta plaque buildup, a key factor in Alzheimer's disease. By guiding the enzyme to a different point, the researchers may be able to achieve the same goal with less collateral damage.
Ga-ga, goo-goo, why a baby likes you
Researchers found that by one year old, infants prefer speakers of their native tongue but not unfamiliar languages. Infants also form positive biases toward prosocial behavior from familiar language speakers, suggesting an innate preference for similar groups.
Programs that teach emotional intelligence in schools have lasting impact
New research shows that social-emotional learning programs have immediate positive effects on children's mental health, social skills, and learning outcomes, which continue to benefit them years later. The study found higher graduation rates, lower drug use and behavior problems, and improved public health outcomes for program particip...
Serious pain afflicts a third of nursing home residents in last 6 months of life
A significant proportion of nursing home residents suffer from chronic pain during their final six months, according to a recent study. Researchers analyzed data from over 960 seniors and found that 60% reported consistent low or mild pain, while around 34% experienced moderate or severe pain, with little improvement as death approached.
SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of the American Medical Directors Association·DateJun 29, 2017
Ten million tons of fish wasted every year despite declining fish stocks
A new study found that nearly 10% of the world's total catch in the last decade was discarded due to poor fishing practices and inadequate management. The discarded fish could have been put to better use, highlighting the need for improved fisheries management and new technology to reduce waste.
How to stay sane when your child can't sleep
A new study by UBC sleep expert Wendy Hall found a correlation between thoughts about infant sleep and parental depression. After a sleep intervention, parental depression lifted significantly, with a notable reduction in mothers' (30%) and fathers' (20%) high depression scores.
How AI helped auction off $19 billion worth of radio spectrum
The US FCC's first direct-to-mobile radio spectrum auction successfully raised $19 billion, utilizing a complex AI-powered reverse auction system. This innovative approach allowed broadcasters to sell their unused airwaves, generating significant revenue while also addressing the growing demand for mobile data.
SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 26, 2017
When the rubber hits the road: Recycled tires create stronger concrete
Researchers developed a more resilient type of concrete using recycled tire fibres, reducing crack formation by over 90% compared to regular concrete. The new concrete has potential to shrink the tire industry's carbon footprint and reduce construction emissions.
Researchers untangle mystery of tiny bird's trans-Pacific flight
Researchers propose that a storm or internal navigation 'compass' malfunction led to the bird's off-course journey. The near-perfect condition of its feathers suggests it wasn't trapped in a plane's wheel well, making ship or plane transport unlikely.
Subsidies promote overfishing and hurt small-scale fishers worldwide
A study by the University of British Columbia found that only 16% of global fisheries subsidies went to small-scale fishing, despite employing over 22 million people and supporting food security. Large-scale fisheries receive 60% of subsidies promoting overfishing due to fuel-efficient technology and port development subsidies.
How the popularity of sea cucumbers is threatening coastal communities
A growing global demand for sea cucumbers is causing complex social and ecological impacts on coastal communities, leading to financial rewards that incentivize risky fishing practices and deplete local resources. The study highlights the need for rapid management of these impacts to sustainably manage fisheries with coastal communities.
Parents' reasons for not vaccinating children influence public attitudes toward them
A new study found that mothers who refuse to vaccinate their children are viewed more negatively than those who delay vaccines due to safety concerns. Researchers used an online survey to examine attitudes toward under-vaccinated children and their parents, revealing stigmatization regardless of reason for non-compliance.
Researchers uncover potential risks of common MS treatment
A comprehensive study by UBC researchers found an increased risk of stroke, migraine, depression, and abnormalities in the blood with beta interferon treatment. The study complements previous observations and highlights the need for further research on developing biomarkers to identify patients at greatest risk.
Solving one of nature's great puzzles: What drives the accelerating expansion of the universe?
UBC physicists Qingdi Wang and Bill Unruh propose a new theory that suggests the universe's expanding space-time is constantly fluctuating, leading to an accelerating expansion. This idea resolves a major incompatibility issue between quantum mechanics and general relativity.
Believing a cocktail contains an energy drink makes you feel more drunk
A study found that labeling cocktails with energy drinks increases perceived intoxication, risk-taking, and sexual self-confidence. Adding energy drinks to alcohol reduces the intention to drive under the influence.
Brain injury causes impulse control problems in rats
New research confirms even mild brain injury can cause impulsivity problems in rats, with levels of inflammatory molecule interleukin-12 linked to impulsivity. The study found that impulsivity persisted eight weeks after injury, highlighting the need for comprehensive assessment and potential new treatment targets.
Red light, green light invention prevents work interruptions
A UBC computer scientist invented a unique desk light that automatically switches from green to red when an employee is 'in the zone' and shouldn't be disturbed by colleagues. The FlowLight reduces interruptions, changes office culture, and motivates employees to finish work faster.
New coral bleaching database to help predict fate of global reefs
A new global coral bleaching database has been developed to predict future bleaching events and assess changes in mass bleaching frequency. The database contains 79% more reports than the existing voluntary database, with two-thirds showing moderate or severe bleaching.
Making bins more convenient boosts recycling and composting rates
A study by UBC researchers found that placing bins 1.5 metres away from suite doors increases recycling and composting rates by 141%, with a 70% increase in composting rates in apartment buildings. The study suggests that small changes in convenience can significantly impact environmental behavior.
SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Environmental Planning and Management·DateApr 21, 2017