Researchers found a common bacterial signature associated with the development of eczema, asthma, food allergy, and hay fever in children. The study suggests that early life influences on gut microbiota may play a key role in the development of these allergies.
Researchers at UBC's BioProducts Institute found a solution to capture virtually all microplastic particles in water by adding tannins to wood dust, trapping 95.2-99.9% of plastic particles. The method could be scaled up for municipal treatment systems or home use.
A study of 92 straight men found that neo-traditional, egalitarian, and progressive masculinities have different benefits and challenges for mental well-being. Men who promote gender equity report improved mental health, while those who challenge these ideals may face isolation or criticism.
A new University of British Columbia study found that simple home workouts using exercise apps can effectively reduce depressive symptoms in healthcare workers. The research suggests that offering accessible, easy ways to exercise could be a major tool to combat the global mental health crisis in the sector.
A new study by Dr. Amin Ghaziani and Andy Holmes found that people are deeply ambivalent about coming out, with awareness of generational differences playing a key role. The researchers conducted in-depth interviews with 52 adult Vancouverites about their experiences coming out over the last five years.
A new UBC study finds that clearcut logging leads to a significant increase in flood frequency and size, particularly in larger watersheds. The researchers used a novel method to isolate the effects of logging from climate background factors.
A clinical trial suggests that extending antidepressant treatment beyond eight weeks can help prevent depressive relapses in patients with bipolar disorder. The study found that continued treatment was associated with a 40% lower risk of relapse compared to tapering off and switching to a placebo.
A new algorithm developed by UBC researchers can map the safest route with the lowest possible risk of a crash, incorporating real-time crash risk data. The study found that the fastest routes are not always the safest, highlighting the importance of considering safety and efficiency when choosing directions.
Researchers at the University of British Columbia developed a stretchable, transparent display that can change color in real-time, opening doors for potential uses in wearable devices and disposable applications. The device's low power consumption and cost-effectiveness make it attractive for integration into everyday devices.
A new study reveals that pathogenic bacteria fuel their growth by consuming sialic acid, a key component of the protective intestinal mucus layer. The findings suggest a potential treatment target for intestinal bacterial infections and chronic diseases linked to gut bacteria, including IBD and celiac disease.
A new study has found that Progesterone (micronized, oral) is effective in decreasing night sweats and improving sleep in perimenopausal women. The study, conducted by researchers at the University of British Columbia, involved 93% of participants completing the three-month trial with no serious adverse events.
Researchers have identified over 30 previously unknown RNA viruses in sea lice, suggesting they may play a role in controlling sea-lice populations. The viruses' ability to rapidly replicate and weaken their hosts maintains balance in nature.
A specially designed garden, rain garden, can capture toxic tire chemicals associated with tires entering waterways by more than 90%. Researchers tested a Vancouver rain garden and found that it captured about 75% of the chemical, preventing it from entering salmon-bearing streams.
Researchers at UBC develop biodegradable gel that mimics articular cartilage properties, allowing for faster and more efficient cartilage regeneration. The gel's ability to resist compression and recover its shape after compression makes it a promising material for joint injury repair.
A team of researchers urges governments to manage plastic production, use, and recycling by categorizing plastics as persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic (PBT) pollutants. Plastics' long-lasting nature and accumulation in organisms pose significant environmental and health risks.
A new standard for diagnosing concussions has been established by an international group of experts, taking into account blood tests and cognitive assessments. The new criteria aim to reduce inconsistencies in diagnosis and improve patient care, as well as facilitate apples-to-apples comparisons between studies.
Researchers found that using seaweed coverage as an indicator of reef health is flawed and may even hide signs of stress. Local species behave differently in response to human impacts, making it crucial for scientists to develop new methods to assess reef health.
Harmful fisheries subsidies support fishing in waters outside jurisdictions of their home nation, impacting developing countries and the environment. These subsidies disproportionately affect marginalized communities and lead to food insecurity and economic dependence on fishing.
A UBC study found that employee layoffs have a strong impact on voluntary turnover among remaining employees, especially when high performers are let go without clear justification. The research suggests that organizations should prioritize clear communication and compassionate decision-making to avoid destabilizing their workforce.
A new article in Science challenges the notion that fish growth slows down when they spawn. Research by Dr. Pauly and Dr. Froese found that fish actually grow faster after reproducing, as their energy is redirected towards other activities. The study also notes that reproduction does not impact growth in mammals.
Researchers at UBC and the University of Michigan have discovered a new compound, MPI 8, that prevents blood clots without increasing bleeding risk. This breakthrough could lead to improved treatment options for patients affected by blood clots.
Researchers analyzed concentric terraces around the Santorini caldera to better understand massive underwater volcanic eruptions. The study found that sedimentation waves can impact the sea surface, creating tsunamis and scouring the seafloor during shallow submarine eruptions.
Researchers found that a mother's vaginal microbiome composition does not significantly affect the infant stool microbiome in early life. Factors such as breast milk and antibiotic exposure play a larger role in shaping the baby's gut microbiome.
A recent UBC study reveals that the planet's biomass is disproportionately distributed among tiny and massive organisms, with no clear explanation for this pattern. The findings have significant implications for understanding climate change impacts and ecosystems.
A new tool, Paper Park Index (PPI), helps identify 55 marine protected areas that fail to protect marine biodiversity. Most 'paper parks' are located in Latin America and the Caribbean, where fishing intensity is high.
Engineers at UBC developed a new water treatment that captures up to 99% of PFAS particles, eliminating them from drinking water. The technology is particularly beneficial for rural communities with limited resources, offering a decentralized and in-home solution.
A University of British Columbia study suggests that jellyfish size can influence their nutritional value. The researchers found that larger jellyfish tend to have higher levels of healthy fats, making them potentially more nutritious.
Researchers developed a texting intervention that promotes healthy sexual decision-making and reduces pregnancies among LGBTQ+ teens. The Girl2Girl program showed sustained positive health behaviors for up to 12 months after completion.
A dramatic rise in unregulated amphetamine use has been observed in Ontario's emergency departments, with a nearly 15-fold increase in ED visits between 2003 and 2020. Individuals accessing EDs for amphetamine-related concerns grew from 233 to 4,146 annually by 2020.
A new study found that U.S. senators' tweets about greed perform better in terms of likes and retweets, particularly among Democrats who gain stronger traction for negative tweets about their opponents.
A new AI model developed at the University of British Columbia accurately predicts cancer patient survival using natural language processing to analyze oncologist notes. The model shows over 80% accuracy in predicting six-month, 36-month and 60-month survival rates.
A new UBC study reveals midwives provide safe primary care for all medical risk levels, with comparable or improved birth outcomes. Midwives also assist with lower caesarean delivery rates and collaborate with specialists.
A recent UBC study has found that southern resident killer whales require high-energy prey to survive, with spring-run Chinook salmon being the most suitable. The study's findings have significant implications for managing both species and mitigating the decline of this critically endangered population.
The EEB Language Project aims to revise harmful terminology in ecology and evolution, promoting inclusivity and precision. The project provides a repository of words with suggested alternatives, allowing community members to submit their suggestions and engage in dialogue.
A new study by University of British Columbia researchers found that brief exposure to diesel exhaust causes decreased brain connectivity and may impair cognitive performance. The study's findings suggest a link between air pollution and altered brain network connectivity in humans.
Scientists discovered high levels of toxic chemicals, including 4-nonylphenol from toilet paper, in the bodies of orcas in B.C., which may contribute to their population decline. Forever chemicals like 7:3-fluorotelomer carboxylic acid were also found, highlighting the need for pollution management and regulation.
Researchers at UBC identified three compounds derived from natural sources that prevent COVID-19 infection in human cells. The discovery paves the way for developing new medicines using natural sources.
Researchers have developed an improved genetic test that allows for more accurate prediction of which parent's genes led to an individual's increased cancer risk. The new test confirms whether a cancer predisposing gene variant is present in a patient and determines its origin, enabling targeted prevention efforts.
Researchers have developed a simple mechanical model to understand how viruses replicate inside cells, highlighting the crucial role of virus size in this process. The optimal size range for efficient viral replication is suggested to be between 60nm and 100nm in diameter.
Researchers have identified a compound that shows early promise at halting infections from a range of coronaviruses, including all variants of SARS-CoV-2 and the common cold. The findings reveal a potential path toward antiviral treatments that could be used against many different pathogens.
Research at the University of British Columbia found that intensive agriculture has driven rapid evolutionary change in waterhemp, a North American native plant, turning it into a problematic weed. The study compared genetic samples from modern farms and historical specimens to track evolution over two centuries.
Researchers discovered a new ancient branch of life, Provora, comprising microbial predators that nibble prey to death. These microbes, called nibblerids and nebulids, were found in marine habitats globally and differ by 170-180 nucleotides from all other living things.
New research reveals that men who successfully transition post-breakup are those who seek to understand their experiences and change negative behaviors. These men focus on gaining positive personal transformations in the aftermath of the breakup, rather than blaming themselves or others.
A new study by UBC researchers emphasizes the need for public urban greenspaces to be designed with the needs of young adults between 15 and 24 in mind. The research found that such spaces can promote social interactions, physical exercise, and psychological restoration, leading to improved mental health outcomes.
A new study finds that seafood farming's growth rate has already peaked in 1996 and is now declining, requiring rebuilding of wild fish stocks to meet future demand. Without this approach, relying solely on aquaculture could lead to a global seafood shortage by 2030.
A national study published in The New England Journal of Medicine finds that early intervention with catheter cryoablation can halt disease progression and reduce serious health risks. Cryoablation is more effective than antiarrhythmic drugs in reducing the risk of persistent AF, hospitalization, and adverse events.
Scientists have found that narwhals are changing their migration patterns in response to sea ice loss due to climate change. The study, published in PNAS, shows significant delays in autumn migrations and sex-specific differences in departure times.
The Southern Ocean's ecosystem is facing major stressors from climate change, including melting sea ice and ocean acidification. Overfishing of species such as toothfish and krill is predicted to exacerbate environmental impacts on the entire ecosystem.
Researchers found that short-term changes in health of juvenile sockeye salmon are related to the quality of zooplankton, not biomass or composition. This highlights concerns about climate change affecting ocean conditions and salmon populations.
New research published in Nature suggests that the earliest gills played a crucial role in ion regulation, contradicting traditional views on their evolution. The study found ion-regulating cells in the gills of lampreys, amphioxus, and acorn worms, revealing an early chapter in the evolutionary story of gills.