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University of Toronto


Prejudice or perception? New U of T research

Researchers found that individuals who expect to be treated with prejudice are more likely to perceive rejection and contempt on faces expressing similar emotions. This study highlights the importance of considering both sides' expectations and perceptions in improving communications between diverse populations.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateJun 9, 2008

Research promising for cystic fibrosis

Researchers at University of Toronto have identified compounds that block the activity of a key protein (ExoS) in cystic fibrosis patients. These compounds may also serve as a model for future therapies against the HIV virus, according to a new study published in PLoS Genetics.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMar 18, 2008

Fish oil -- helpful or harmful?

A new review of trials suggests fish oil supplements can help some cardiac patients by blocking cardiac ion channels and reducing fibrosis, while having a negative impact on others. However, high doses can increase the risk of bleeding.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJan 14, 2008

Self-sabotage

A study by Dr. Jason Plaks and Kristin Stecher found that individuals with a fixed view of their abilities become anxious and disoriented upon achieving dramatic success, leading to poor performance, whereas those with a malleable view perform better under similar circumstances.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateNov 22, 2007

Unravelling new complexity in the genome

A University of Toronto-led study found that alternative splicing is more highly regulated in nervous system tissues, allowing for specific functions in memory and learning. This new understanding of gene regulation has significant implications for human diseases such as cancers.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalGenome Biology·DateAug 13, 2007

Mars -- Red Planet once blue planet

A team of Canadian and U.S. researchers have found evidence that ragged features on Mars' surface were once shorelines of massive ancient oceans. The study suggests that a shift in Mars' spin axis within the past 2-3 billion years deformed these shorelines.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalNature·DateJun 13, 2007

Remnants of ice age linger in gravity

A large area of low but increasing gravity over North America has been discovered, reflecting the lingering impact of the last ice age. The study provides an unprecedented image of the geometry of the long-vanished Laurentide ice sheet and reveals that its ghost still hangs over the continent.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalScience·DateMay 10, 2007

Technology reveals 'lock and key' proteins behind diseases

Researchers at University of Toronto developed a device to test for proteins involved in human health and disease, revealing potential targets for pharmaceutical applications. The study identified six new protein interactors that regulate ABC transporter function, providing insights into diseases like cystic fibrosis and drug resistance.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalMolecular Cell·DateApr 12, 2007

New placenta screening for high-risk pregnancies

Researchers at Mount Sinai Hospital in Toronto have developed a non-invasive screening test to detect placental damage in high-risk pregnancies. The test, which combines ultrasound and blood tests, can identify abnormal placental function at 16-23 weeks gestation, allowing for early intervention and improved pregnancy outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateApr 2, 2007

Alzheimer's gene identified

Researchers at the University of Toronto have identified a new gene, SORL1, associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease in different ethnic groups. The discovery highlights the complexity of the disease's genetics and underscores the need for further replication studies.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 14, 2007

Healthier kids just the click of a remote away

A recent study by the University of Toronto found a statistically significant link between TV viewing and physical inactivity in Canadian adolescents. The study, which tracked over 7,982 participants aged 12-19, revealed that more hours spent watching TV were associated with less energy expended on physical activity.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateNov 13, 2006

Paint-on semiconductor outperforms chips

A new paint-on semiconductor device has been developed by researchers at the University of Toronto, surpassing traditional methods in terms of cost and performance. The device, created using a liquid painting process, boasts exceptional sensitivity to infrared rays and is approximately ten times more sensitive than current sensors.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalNature·DateJul 12, 2006

New procedure safer for detecting fetal anemia

Researchers developed a non-invasive Doppler ultrasonography method to detect fetal anemia in high-risk pregnancies. The study found that this new procedure is safer than traditional testing methods, which can be traumatic for the mother and carry a risk of miscarriage.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 12, 2006

Healing the heart with bone marrow cells

Researchers at the University of Toronto have discovered bone marrow adult stem cells play a crucial role in repairing damaged hearts. The 'SOS' distress signal mobilizes these cells to stimulate new blood vessel growth and restore heart function.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 3, 2006

Does suicide bombing pay?

A University of Toronto study analyzing 138 attacks during the second intifada found that revenge and retaliation were the primary motivators, with bombings not achieving strategic gains for Palestinians. The study also revealed that Israeli actions, such as killings, often prompted attacks, highlighting a cycle of violence.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalSocial Forces·DateJun 12, 2006