A study found that caffeine increases alertness and detection accuracy for moving targets, improving reaction times and visual processing. Researchers tested participants' dynamic visual acuity skills before and after caffeine ingestion, showing significant improvements in accuracy and speed.
Research found that bats can adapt to diverse climates by finding similar roosting conditions, but those with high water loss are more heavily impacted by white-nose syndrome. This study highlights the importance of understanding bat hibernation patterns for conservation efforts.
A recent study by the International Tobacco Control Policy Evaluation Project found that most adult vapers oppose flavor restrictions, with 82% saying they would continue vaping if flavored products were banned. Some vapers may switch to smoking cigarettes instead, highlighting potential unintended consequences of a flavor ban.
A team of Canadian researchers has successfully simulated baryons on a quantum computer, marking an important step towards more complex simulations. This breakthrough enables scientists to study neutron stars, the earliest moments of the universe, and the revolutionary potential of quantum computers.
Researchers developed AfriBERTa, a neural network model that achieves state-of-the-art results for low-resource African languages. The model works with 11 languages spoken by over 400 million people and requires only one gigabyte of data, compared to thousands for existing models.
A new study by researchers at the University of Waterloo found that most people misunderstand the concept of mindfulness, confusing it with passive acceptance rather than engaging with life's challenges. The study suggests that laypeople may understand awareness but struggle to grasp the importance of acceptance in mindfulness practices.
A study published in Frontiers in Psychiatry reveals that older psychiatric patients are more likely to be restrained in non-emergency situations than younger adults. The research examined over 226,000 Ontario inpatient records and found a significant association between age, risk of falls, physical disability, and psychiatric symptoms...
A new study found that chronic hepatitis C patients in hospital clinics spent five times more on out-of-pocket costs than those treated in community clinics. Patients lost an average of $743 in time over three months due to CHC, while caregivers also bear a significant financial burden.
Researchers at the University of Waterloo have created a deep neural network that detects disease biomarkers with high accuracy, achieving 98 per cent detection of peptide features. This breakthrough could enable earlier and more accurate disease detection through tissue sample analysis.
Researchers discovered carbon residue in ancient ruby, indicating early life presence, and graphite changed surrounding rocks' chemistry for favourable conditions
A recent study found that fitness apps utilizing illness- and death-related messages are more effective in motivating users than those focusing on social stigma, obesity, or financial costs. The research discovered a significant relationship between these messaging types and self-regulatory beliefs and outcome expectations.
Researchers developed a program to target vaccinations using digital contact tracing technology, which can almost halve the number of vaccines required to bring the pandemic under control. The new program prioritizes individuals with the most contacts for vaccinations while keeping personal data private.
Researchers developed PocketView, a display technology that shows basic information like notifications and time through fabrics, offering versatility and ease of use. The technology is relatively inexpensive and can be incorporated into existing devices, making it a potential game-changer in wearable tech.
Researchers at the University of Waterloo developed AI technology that can identify players by their jersey numbers in hockey videos with high accuracy. The system uses multi-task learning and a large dataset of over 54,000 images from NHL games to recognize sweater numbers.
Research suggests that fostering positive workplace social relationships between men and women can improve gender equity and inclusion in STEM. Even small gestures of social inclusion, such as chatting with female teammates during breaks, can reduce stereotypes and increase feelings of engagement.
Researchers developed an AI algorithm that can assess climate change tipping points, predicting rapid or irreversible change in systems. The new approach can detect features of tipping points common to various complex systems, including ecology, epidemiology, and markets.
A new study found that plain packaging in Canada lowered the appeal of cigarettes, with more smokers reporting a dislike for their pack design. However, the lack of accompanied new warnings limited its effectiveness compared to other countries.
A study by the University of Waterloo suggests that reducing brand imagery and increasing health warnings on cannabis packaging can decrease its appeal to children. The researchers found that products with white backgrounds and limited branding were rated as less harmful and more memorable for warning messages.
A new study by researchers at the University of Waterloo found that stricter non-pharmaceutical interventions, such as policy restrictions on business operations and indoor mask mandates, are associated with reduced COVID-19 cases in Ontario. The study also suggests that increases in workplace attendance correlate with higher case counts.
Researchers used a groundbreaking technique to study silicon crystals and neutron particles, revealing new information about a possible fifth force of nature. The study achieved fourfold improvement in precision measurement of the silicon crystal structure factor.
Researchers have created a global database of 63 tailings flows since 1928, revealing catastrophic events occur every two to three years on average. The study highlights the importance of understanding water-to-solids ratios and downstream terrain in preventing mass casualties and environmental damage.
Researchers found that people expect good agents to be sensitive to intentions behind requests, while evil individuals are expected to be relatively insensitive. This study suggests that people's views of ordinary humans influence their expectations of supernatural characters.
Researchers created Community ASAP to help locate missing people with dementia, engaging community citizens as volunteers. The app aims to address the lack of alerts for this population, which has a high risk of wandering and experiencing serious injury or death within 24 hours.
High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) technology is being explored for its potential to destroy cancerous tumours while minimizing damage to healthy tissue. Researchers at the University of Waterloo have made significant progress in understanding how HIFU works on a cellular level, paving the way for future clinical trials.
A new study by University of Waterloo researchers highlights the importance of using better face masks and proper ventilation to mitigate COVID-19 transmission indoors. The study found that higher-quality masks can filter up to 50% of exhaled aerosol droplets, while even modest ventilation rates are effective in reducing risk.
A new study by researchers at the University of Waterloo found that Indigenous fire stewardship increases biodiversity and ecosystem heterogeneity across all major terrestrial biomes. Cultural burning reduces risks of interface fires and has important cultural practices for resource management, community protection, and cultural purposes.
Researchers at the University of Waterloo found that people who experience intense boredom frequently in everyday life may seek 'flow' by playing smartphone games to escape their feelings. This 'boredom fix' can lead to negative consequences and excessive gaming, ultimately increasing depression.
Researchers at the University of Waterloo are using mathematical models to simulate COVID-19 infections and test drug efficacy. The models allow for virtual trials, helping narrow down effective treatments before clinical trials begin.
A recent study by the International Tobacco Control Project found that COVID-19 did not result in a significant increase in smoking among smokers. Despite nearly half reporting thoughts about quitting, most smokers continued their habits during the pandemic's early phase.
Researchers at the University of Waterloo discovered that nanoscale electrocatalysts degrade and lose effectiveness over time due to atomic rearrangement. The study identifies two key reasons for this degradation: surface attachment of small molecules and electromigration.
A team of researchers has designed an intravaginal ring (IVR) that delivers two medications known to decrease HIV transmission. The IVR, which contains a segmented section that releases hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), targets the first line of defence in reducing immune cell activation and buys time for a gene therapy treatment.
Researchers developed a new hybrid computing approach, combining reliability of classical computers with strength of quantum systems. This method enables near-term applications and discoveries in fields like carbon dioxide removal and pharmaceutical design.
Researchers developed a non-contact laser imaging system that can detect telltale signs of major blinding diseases in retinal blood and tissue, allowing for earlier diagnosis and management. The technology, known as photoacoustic remote sensing, improves patient comfort and test accuracy.
A new study found that people prone to boredom and socially conservative individuals are more likely to break public health rules. The researchers suggest that this is because social conservatism can strengthen one's sense of identity and meaning, which can be compromised by the restrictions imposed during the pandemic.
A new study found that climate warming will increase carbon loss in Canadian peatland by 103 per cent due to changes in soil temperature and photosynthesis. This will lead to a strong positive climate feedback loop, where peatlands release greenhouse gases contributing to further climate warming.
A new AI tool developed by researchers at the University of Waterloo uses deep-learning technology to assess the severity of lung infections in COVID-19 patients. The tool shows promising results, aligning well with expert assessments and potentially improving clinical efficiency.
A new study shows that the pandemic has boosted older Canadians' willingness to receive the flu shot, with 20% of 50-64 year olds and 8% of those 65+ now more likely to get vaccinated. However, some respondents cited concerns about safety due to COVID-19 co-circulation or fear of exposure.
A new study found that nearly a quarter of international students make their decision to stay or go before arriving in Canada, while the majority wait until after experiencing life here. Students cited family ties, employment opportunities, and feelings of isolation as key factors shaping their decisions.
Researchers developed a tool using AI and text mining to analyze inspection reports, identifying urgent roof repairs and prioritizing spending. The 'Moneyball' approach uses data on buildings instead of subjective opinions to make informed decisions with limited budgets.
A team of researchers from University of Waterloo and others have identified the remains of Warrant Officer John Gregory using DNA and genealogical analyses. This is the first member of the ill-fated 1845 Franklin expedition to be positively identified through DNA.
Researchers have discovered a precise way to control individual ions using holographic optical engineering technology. The new technology promises to aid the development of quantum industry-specific hardware and potentially quantum error correction processes.
A new study from the University of Waterloo discovered that UVC light can neutralize benzalkonium chloride (BAK), a common ingredient in disinfectants, making them safer for humans and the environment. The treatment reduces BAK's toxicity and minimizes its harmful effects on skin and eyes.
New research from the University of Waterloo reveals shift work disrupts the circadian clock, affecting immune response and increasing risk of infection. The study shows sex differences in immune system reactivity, with males more prone to overactivation and females better prepared to fight off infections.
A recent study found that online farmers' markets can play a crucial role in maintaining community connections and supporting sustainable food systems. The Yellowknife Farmers Market's transition to an online market during the pandemic showcased its ability to adapt while prioritizing local businesses and social connections.
Researchers at the University of Waterloo have developed a theoretical model to predict the formation and size of large cavitation bubbles in hydraulic systems. The model helps engineers design safer systems and guidelines to minimize wear and tear, reducing major failures.
A new study by the University of Waterloo found that using euphemistic language can bias people's evaluations of actions to be more favorable. The researchers used agreeable terms, such as 'enhanced interrogation,' instead of disagreeable ones, like 'torture,' to see how it affects people's judgments.
A study found that young adults were unaware of existing AI-powered symptom checkers, which could help reduce the number of in-person clinic visits during the pandemic. The tools aim to provide reassurance for non-COVID symptoms and improve user experience through personalization.
A new study reveals that Canada's 2016-2017 menthol cigarette ban led to significant increases in smokers attempting to quit, successfully quitting, and experiencing lower relapse rates. The study estimates an additional 923,000 smokers could quit if the US implemented a similar ban.
Researchers are developing AI-controlled exoskeletons and prosthetic legs that can think and make control decisions on their own. The system combines computer vision and deep-learning AI to mimic human walking by adjusting to surroundings.
A team led by Chris Yakymchuk at the University of Waterloo found that a three-billion-year-old crater in Greenland is inconsistent with an impact crater, but instead formed through normal geological processes. The discovery was made after a 40-million-year delay from the initial proposed meteorite impact date.