A new strategy, developed by the University of Toronto Joint Centre for Bioethics, aims to integrate and value ethical decision-making in healthcare. The 'hub and spokes' model assigns a central ethics resource to share knowledge and guidance with frontline employees, promoting accountability and sustainability.
Researchers have confirmed that methotrexate and leflunomide are safe and effective treatments for children with severe juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. The study found a higher response rate in children compared to adults, providing new hope for families affected by this chronic disease.
Researchers develop new chemical reaction to simplify indole synthesis, reducing the number of steps from six to three and minimizing toxic by-products. The technique could lead to significant cost savings and reduced environmental impact in pharmaceutical manufacturing.
Recent archeological research discovered that rice was the prevalent food source in northern China, alongside millet and wheat. The sophisticated knowledge of growing rice demonstrated by ancient Chinese farmers helped explain China's huge population today. The findings shed new light on China's agricultural history.
Researchers from U of T examined approximately 40 nursing home comparisons between 1990 and 2002, revealing that not-for-profit homes generally offer better patient care than their for-profit counterparts in the US. In contrast, the Canadian study found limited data on nursing home quality, highlighting the need for further investigation.
A U of T study found that paramedics' traumatic experiences can have a ripple effect on their families, leading to increased stress and family breakdown. Family members need support to cope with the emotional impact of their loved one's work.
A study by University of Toronto researchers found that teams with mostly women became more egalitarian over time, while teams with mostly men continued to follow hierarchical structures. This led to better grades for the latter teams, highlighting the importance of equal participation in creative project teams.
Researchers from U of T mapped the role of Epstein-Barr virus in cancer, finding that EBNA1 protein disrupts natural cell growth regulation by binding to USP7, increasing cancer risk. This study provides a structural explanation for how EBNA1 impacts cell growth, paving the way for developing better methods to combat viruses like EBV.
A recent study by the University of Toronto found that nearly one in five teenagers in Ontario have evidence of tooth damage. The study also revealed that youth with cavities are more likely to experience tooth injuries.
A new study published in Heart found that individuals with giant cell arteritis (GCA) have a significantly higher risk of cardiovascular disease compared to healthy adults. The prevalence of GCA is estimated at one per every 500 seniors, and patients with this condition are more than twice as likely to experience heart attacks or strokes.
A study by University of Toronto researchers found that orchestra musicians are not at risk of hearing loss in the pit, despite playing for long hours. However, individual practice and measures such as earplugs can still help protect their hearing.
A professor of environmental studies at U of T is bridging the gap between science and religion to address the environmental crisis. He notes that some religious yet ecology-minded Republicans are involved in a campaign against gas-guzzling SUVs, asking Americans to consider more ecologically sensitive cars.
A recent study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine found that medication errors are a significant issue in hospitalized patients. The study examined 151 patients who took at least four prescription medicines at home and had unplanned hospital admissions, revealing that 53.6% had at least one unintended medication discrepancy.
A study by University of Toronto researchers found that depressed women exhibit anxiety and self-consciousness due to sociotropy, a personality trait characterized by a need for close relationships. In contrast, men with depression tend to be angry or hostile about perceived losses, according to the research.
Researchers at U of T used 3-D ultrasound to analyze tongue function after surgery, creating a baseline for 'Joe Canadian' tongue reconstruction. The study aims to improve speech outcomes for patients with tongue cancer.
A U of T researcher has discovered a connection between gene mutations and schizophrenia, suggesting the brain overcompensates for these mutations by becoming supersensitive to dopamine. This new understanding could lead to new research directions into schizophrenia.
Researchers developed a treatment using a neuroprosthesis that stimulates muscles with electrical pulses, enabling stroke patients to reconnect damaged neuronal connections and restore hand function. After 16 weeks of training, 85% of the treatment group showed progress in reaching and grasping functions.
Researchers have identified a new source of mesenchymal progenitor cells in the human umbilical cord's Wharton's Jelly, which can be harvested to generate an abundant supply of stem cells. This discovery has the potential to greatly improve bone marrow transplantation success rates, currently ranging from 30-40%. The new stem cell sour...
A new study suggests that cardiac rehabilitation programs lasting at least six months can lead to significant improvements in both physical and mental health. The research found that patients who participated in extended programs experienced greater benefits than those in shorter programs, with peak effects occurring at 38 weeks.
A team of researchers at the University of Toronto created modern proverbs reflecting current public health principles. Their proverbs advise on smoking, balanced diet, and physical activity.
Researchers found that combining behavioral enrichment and antioxidant supplementation significantly improved learning abilities in senior dogs. The study suggests similar benefits may be attained in humans due to biological and behavioral parallels between species.
A study of 119 mothers in three age groups found that those who received consistent care during childhood displayed more affection towards their infants. In contrast, mothers raised by frequently changing caregivers exhibited less affection and more instrumental behavior.
Researchers at University of Toronto developed a sprayable infrared detector that can harness the sun's invisible rays. The discovery may improve renewable energy sources by increasing efficiency and flexibility in solar cells.
A new technique developed by the University of Toronto team enables accurate measurements of individual exons that make up different mRNAs, opening doors to understanding more about some diseases. This process, known as alternative splicing, is a cellular process that acquires the ability to control genetic messages.
A study examining 919 cardiovascular drug ads found that 80% depicted male patients, with women underrepresented and often portrayed as younger than men. The research highlights the potential impact of gender bias in advertising on physicians' treatment decisions for heart problems.
A new study suggests that ocean tides contributed to the enigmatic Heinrich events by breaking gigantic icebergs from the ice sheet covering northern Canada. The research used a state-of-the-art computer model to capture ancient tidal variances with high accuracy, revealing that tides were highest in the Labrador Sea during these events.
A study published by University of Toronto researchers found that Canada receives only 10% of US foreign investment, compared to over half received by Europe. To improve Canada's productivity performance and attract more investment, experts say it is a difficult challenge for policymakers and academics.
Researchers at Sick Kids confirm that cancer stem cells are responsible for initiating and growing brain tumors in a mouse model. This discovery opens the door for new therapeutic targets to conquer brain tumors.
Researchers at University of Toronto found evidence of lead contamination resulting from bismuth use in waterfowl samples. The study suggests that excessive bismuth exposure may be linked to blood, liver, kidney and neural problems.
A new multi-camera system can automatically sort images based on their three-dimensional contents, allowing users to pinpoint points of interest and explore further. The technology has potential applications in tracking objects or individuals in large environments such as airports and casinos.
A new gene therapy has successfully corrected the genetic defect responsible for Fabry disease in mice, producing a sustained level of enzyme activity and reducing fat buildup in target organs. The treatment, administered shortly after birth, could potentially lead to a one-time treatment option for humans.
A University of Toronto study identifies immigration, lack of partner support, and readiness for hospital discharge as factors increasing new mothers' risk of developing depressive symptoms. Early detection can lead to early intervention and improved maternal and child outcomes.
Cities in China with non-state run industries and highly educated workforces saw significant economic growth from 1990 to 1999, outperforming cities dominated by state enterprises. This is due to their ability to adapt quickly to technological innovations.
A research team has identified a possible genetic mechanism behind congenital heart defects, using mouse models to study the protein Baf60c. The findings suggest that suppressed levels of this protein may lead to dramatic cardiovascular defects.
A recent study has revealed a genetic link to colon cancer, identifying the MutY human homologue (MYH) gene as a risk factor. The research found that children of MYH gene carriers have a higher risk of developing the disease, with a 1:2 ratio.
Scientists at Sick Kids Research Institute have identified a new source of stem cells found in adult skin that can transform into neurons, offering hope for treating brain disorders. The discovery was made using mice and has similar findings in human cells.
A new study by Professor Faye Mishna explores the complexities surrounding bullying, finding that children's perspectives often differ from those of parents and educators. The research highlights the importance of validating a child's distress even if the situation is not considered bullying.
A recent Canadian study found that workplace smoking bans lead to a significant reduction in daily cigarette consumption among smokers, with an average drop of 15.4 cigarettes per day. The ban has been shown to increase the likelihood of smokers cutting down or quitting altogether.
Researchers successfully transplanted human retinal stem cells into light-sensing photoreceptor cells and retinal pigment epithelial cells in animal models. The study's findings have implications for future treatment of degenerative eye diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa and macular degeneration.
A recent study by Professor Nazilla Khanlou found that multicultural teenagers in Canada have similar levels of self-esteem, regardless of their ethnic background. The research, published in Public Health Nursing, explored influences on adolescent self-esteem and identified factors such as school, lifestyle, personality, and relationsh...
Researchers tracked dust particles from Sahara desert to Toronto using laser ablation mass spectrometer, revealing global pollutants on local streets. The study enables identification of pollutants without prior knowledge of their origin.
A recent study analyzed hourly wages by gender and union affiliation among Canadians. Male visible minorities in unions earned 12% less than European background males, while unions improved women's wages on average. The findings suggest that unions must develop specific goals to target wage disparities faced by ethnic minorities.
Communications failures occur in 30% of exchanges, with 10% jeopardizing patient safety. Researchers suggest adopting aviation-style checklists to ensure accurate and explicit data exchange.
Researchers found that docetaxel administered every three weeks significantly improved survival, pain relief, and quality of life for patients with advanced hormone-refractory prostate cancer. The treatment increased life expectancy by an average of three months.
A study of 32 pregnant women exposed to organic solvents at work found that their children had significantly lower verbal cognitive functioning and greater inattention, highlighting the need for reduced exposure during pregnancy.
Researchers at U of T found that municipal wastewater contains enough organic material to generate significant amounts of electricity. By using anaerobic digestion instead of aerobic treatment, wastewater treatment plants could produce enough electricity for their own operations and potentially export excess energy to the grid.
A study by Dr. Massey Beveridge highlights the importance of orthopedic care in developing countries, where road traffic injuries and falls are major causes of disease burden among children. With only 400 surgeons serving 200 million people, access to simple surgical and obstetrical procedures could prevent up to 10% of all deaths.
A University of Toronto study discovered precursor cells within the adult pancreas that can make new pancreatic cells, potentially providing a plentiful supply of beta cells for transplant treatments. The research also found that these cells can generate both beta cells and neurons, challenging existing dogma on development.
A study by University of Toronto researchers found that only 38.5% of Urdu- and Hindi-speaking women had undergone a clinical breast examination, despite 83% being aware of the procedure. The study highlights gaps in knowledge about breast cancer risk and screening methods among South Asian immigrant women.
Research by University of Toronto criminologists reveals a systematic bias against Aboriginal women prisoners, leading to unfair classification rates and reduced privileges. The study found that 60% of Aboriginal women were classified as medium security risks despite committing fewer infractions in prison.