Researchers at University of British Columbia and Vancouver Coastal Health study show that a combination asthma therapy does not harm British Columbians, contradicting FDA safety concerns. The study, covering 46,000 people over 15 years, found no statistically significant increase in hospitalization rates for users.
Researchers discovered two garlic compounds that significantly reduce Cronobacter sakazakii contamination in dry infant formula powder. These compounds have the potential to eliminate the pathogen before it reaches consumers, easing concerns for new mothers who opt not to breastfeed.
A new study published in the Journal of Corporate Finance reveals that female board members significantly impact merger and acquisition transactions, reducing company costs and increasing shareholder value. With each additional female director, companies pay less for acquisitions and attempt fewer takeover bids.
Researchers identify lateral habenula as crucial in cost-benefit decisions, clarifying its role in daily choices and shedding light on depression treatment.
A study by researchers from the University of British Columbia found that butterflies' flight seasons are responsive to temperature increases, with average timing advancing 2.4 days per degree Celsius. This shift could have significant implications for butterfly populations and ecosystems.
A study by Canadian and Peruvian researchers found that the bulk of Peruvian landings' value comes from producing seafood for human consumption. The Peruvian anchovy generates up to one-third of the world's fishmeal supply but only accounts for 31% of sector revenue.
Research from the University of British Columbia found that Canadian print news articles frequently use words that legitimize sexual exploitation and portray victims as 'business' or 'trade'. The study suggests improvements are needed for accurate reporting to avoid perpetuating stereotypes.
A new study from the University of British Columbia's Sauder School of Business found that people are more likely to donate when their token support is private, not public. Publicly showing support on social media can actually decrease the likelihood of donating later.
Research finds that war exposure during key periods of life strengthens affinity for one's own group, promoting nation-building or conflict cycles. The study involved participants from war-torn Georgia and Sierra Leone, who showed greater willingness to reduce inequality with partners from their village or school.
Researchers at University of British Columbia studied the energy cost of satellite tags on aquatic animals, finding significant drag increases on smaller or juvenile animals. The study provides a universal formula to calculate drag for various marine species, promoting accurate data collection and conservation strategies.
Researchers at University of British Columbia successfully reduced behaviors associated with problem gambling in rats by blocking dopamine D4 receptors. The study found that rats treated with the drug exhibited reduced levels of behaviours like near-misses, offering new hope for treating gambling addiction.
New research reveals that groups cooperate less for climate change mitigation when rewards are in the future, especially for future generations. Despite initial investment, none of the groups achieved the target due to instant gratification.
Research by UBC evolutionary ecologist Rob Colautti found that invasive plants can rapidly evolve to local climates, increasing reproduction and fitness. This adaptation allows them to thrive in northern Ontario and potentially respond to climate change.
A University of British Columbia graduate student developed a solution to prevent cellular overload and dropped calls by using TV channels. She used smart antennas to transmit signals in a single direction, avoiding interference with radio and television signals.
A new study by University of British Columbia researcher finds that some people are genetically predisposed to see the world darkly due to a previously known gene variant. The ADRA2b deletion variant influences norepinephrine levels, affecting real-time perception and emotional memory formation.
A definitive imaging study has found no connection between vein narrowing and multiple sclerosis, challenging the controversial CCSVI theory. Venous narrowing was present in over two-thirds of people with MS, their siblings, and healthy volunteers, but differences were not statistically significant.
New research shows that direct eye contact can make skeptical listeners less receptive to persuasion, while focusing on the speaker's mouth is more effective in convincing those who already agree. Eye contact plays a different role in competitive encounters, highlighting its nuanced impact on human interaction.
Researchers found evidence of low atmospheric oxygen concentrations in 3.8 billion-year-old soils from South Africa, challenging previous estimates that oxygen began accumulating in the atmosphere around 2.3 billion years ago. The discovery supports a longer antiquity for oxygen-producing photosynthesis and aerobic life.
Researchers found that Audubon's warblers share mitochondrial DNA with myrtle warblers, a different species that migrates annually. The study suggests that the songbird may have co-opted the myrtle's mitochondria to better power its travels.
Astronomers have discovered a Trojan asteroid sharing the orbit of Uranus, challenging previous estimates. The study predicts that three percent of scattered objects between Jupiter and Neptune should be co-orbitals with Uranus or Neptune.
Research suggests that poverty can impair cognitive functioning, leading to poor decision-making and perpetuating financial struggles. The study found that individuals with pressing financial concerns exhibit a significant drop in cognitive function, similar to a 13-point dip in IQ.
A new study reveals that two-thirds of SRO tenants were previously homeless and suffered from an average of three illnesses at the same time. Ninety-five per cent had substance dependence, nearly half suffered from psychosis, and nearly 70% had been exposed to Hepatitis C.
A new study reveals that SIGIRR protein suppresses the gut's immune response to bacteria, allowing beneficial microorganisms to thrive. This balance is crucial in preventing infection and inflammatory diseases.
A new study published in American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology reveals that ethnicity-based birth weight charts are more accurate than traditional population-based standards. These charts can help identify small but healthy babies, reducing parental anxiety and unnecessary healthcare costs.
Tiny parasites, known as Mikrocytos mackini, have been found to infect Pacific oysters, causing unsightly green lesions and death. The discovery sheds light on the parasites' reduced metabolism and unique relationship with their host.
Astronomers have tracked the orbital motion of 33,000 stars in one of the Galaxy's oldest globular clusters, offering new insights into the formation of the Milky Way. The study reveals two distinct generations of stars within globular cluster 47 Tucanae, differing in age by 100 million years.
A new study by University of British Columbia researchers found that East Asian adolescents in BC who are sexually active may engage in high-risk behaviors, including alcohol and drug use before sex. The top reasons for abstinence were not feeling ready and wanting to meet the right person.
A global single-cell genomic study highlights British Columbia's role as an 'oasis' of microbial biodiversity. The research, published in Nature, provides new insights into the vital biological diversity encoded in microorganisms, shedding light on essential ecosystem functions and services.
Researchers at UBC have discovered that methylation of a protein called Yap is critical for the function of the Hippo pathway. Loss of the Set7 enzyme resulted in cell growth and larger organs, suggesting potential for drugs to activate this pathway to stop cancer cell growth.
Researchers at the University of British Columbia have developed a vaccine to protect birds against West Nile Virus (WNV), which has killed over 300 people in North America. The vaccine, made from WNV components, generated an effective immune response in birds and may also offer protection against other species.
A recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that planktonic bacteria have reduced their genomes to optimize growth and adaptability. This adaptation allows these microorganisms to efficiently utilize diverse energy sources and survive in the ocean's complex ecosystem.
A University of British Columbia study sheds light on why people attempt suicide, providing a new tool to advance suicide prevention and improve treatments. The Inventory of Motivations for Suicide Attempts (IMSA) is the most accurate and first scientifically tested measure for evaluating a person's motivations for suicide.
Researchers developed a new MRI technique that analyzes electro-magnetic waves for detecting multiple sclerosis changes in fine detail. This method provides a more powerful tool for evaluating new treatments and could lead to smaller studies.
A new study suggests retailers can mitigate conflict by calling out bad shopping etiquette. In an experiment, shoppers who left clothing in disarray received less help from fellow customers after being reprimanded.
A new study shows that shark ecotourism generates over $314 million annually and is expected to more than double to $780 million in the next 20 years. The landed value of global shark fisheries has been declining for the past decade, with an estimated 38 million sharks killed per year to feed the fin trade.
A study by University of British Columbia researchers found that consumers experience social awkwardness when given free upgrades in front of others, leading to a decline in satisfaction and shorter browsing times. The study suggests that retailers should offer perks privately to avoid embarrassment.
Researchers have developed a flat spray-on material that can act as a flat lens, allowing for arbitrary aperture sizes and potentially revolutionizing imaging devices. The technology has significant advancements in ultraviolet light imaging of biological specimens.
Scientists have successfully sequenced the genome of white spruce, a crucial step towards developing innovative tools for tree breeding. The massive genome assembly will contribute to reducing breeding cycles from 25 years to just five years, enhancing the competitiveness of Canada's and Scandinavian forest industries.
Researchers used fish temperature preferences as a 'thermometer' to assess climate change's impact on the world's oceans between 1970 and 2006. They found that warm-water species dominated global fisheries catches, while tropical regions experienced reduced marine species and catches.
A new study published in PLOS ONE found that women aged 70-80 who participated in cardio or weight training classes incurred fewer healthcare resources compared to those in balance and toning classes. This cost-effective approach may help improve cognitive health and reduce healthcare costs for seniors.
Detailed mapping of the Kima'Kho tuya in northern British Columbia shows that the ancient regional ice sheet through which it erupted was twice as thick as previously estimated. This discovery could provide new constraints on paleoclimate models, advancing our understanding of glaciovolcanic eruptions and their impact.
Researchers found Tylenol reduces psychological effects of fear and anxiety, suggesting the drug inhibits distress signals to the brain. The study built on previous research that acetaminophen can reduce social pain, advancing understanding of how the human brain processes different types of pain.
A study found that sales representatives failed to provide information on common or serious side effects and the type of patients who should not use a medicine in 59% of promotions. Doctors in Toulouse were more likely to be informed about potential harms, suggesting stricter regulatory standards may improve transparency.
A new study reveals that Canada is the country least capable of effectively managing its drug pricing regime due to its unique universal healthcare system. The researchers suggest three principles - pragmatism, discipline, and transparency - for developing an effective pricing strategy.
Researchers at UBC and Israel discovered that compliant physicians lead to more patient adherence to screening and vaccination practices. The study found significant differences in patients of doctors who received flu shots and those who did not, highlighting the importance of healthcare professionals' health habits on their patients.
Researchers at UBC estimate China's foreign catch is 4.6 million tonnes per year, taken from the waters of at least 90 countries, including 3.1 million tonnes from African waters.
Researchers discovered two new symbionts, Cthulhu macrofasciculumque and Cthylla microfasciculumque, living in termite guts that aid wood digestion. These tiny protists were named after Lovecraft's monsters due to their octopus-like movements and appearance.
The mountain pine beetle genome has been sequenced to understand its behavior and adaptability, revealing large genetic variation among individuals. The study also identified genes involved in detoxifying defense compounds and degrading plant cell walls, which could inform future management strategies.
A new UBC study reveals that North American service workers are more likely to retaliate against rude customers, while Chinese workers disengage from customer service altogether due to cultural differences. The study suggests that companies must be mindful of these cultural variations when expanding globally.
A study published in Psychological Science found that infants prefer those who harm dissimilar individuals, indicating an early form of schaudenfreude or social alliances. By 9 months, babies assess their surroundings to determine friend or foe based on perceived differences and similarities.