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University of Waterloo


New quantum sensor could improve cancer treatment

The new quantum sensor developed by researchers at the University of Waterloo promises significant advancements in long-range 3D imaging and monitoring the success of cancer treatments. The sensors can detect single particles of light with high timing resolution, speed, and efficiency over an unparalleled wavelength range.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMar 4, 2019

Home insurance buyers lack access to public flood data

A recent study found that flood mapping information in Canada is inadequate, incomplete and hard to locate, leaving homeowners exposed to significant financial risk. The study highlights the need for better information availability to help homeowners determine if their homes are at risk from flooding.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalNatural Hazards and Earth System Sciences·DateFeb 28, 2019

How to make the push-up work for you

A modified push-up exercise called 'push-up plus' strengthens the serratus anterior muscle, which connects the rib cage to the shoulder blade. This study found that different hand positions and orientations activated various muscle groups, making it an effective exercise for athletes and individuals with specific needs.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJournal of Electromyography and Kinesiology·DateFeb 19, 2019

Your body image is impacted by those around you

A new study by researchers at the University of Waterloo found that social interactions significantly influence body image, particularly when surrounded by people who are not preoccupied with their bodies. Spending time with non-body focused individuals can lead to improved eating habits and a more positive body image.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalBody Image·DateJan 30, 2019

In test of wisdom, new research favors Yoda over Spock

Researchers from the University of Waterloo discovered that a balanced mix of emotions improves wisdom. Wise reasoning no longer requires uniform emotional control but rather recognizing multiple perspectives and integrating them for compromise. This study provides new insights into the relationship between wisdom, emotion, and balance.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJournal of Experimental Psychology·DateJan 28, 2019

Measuring AI's ability to learn is difficult

A recent study from the University of Waterloo found that measuring AI's ability to learn is challenging due to the complexity of tasks. The researchers discovered that no mathematical method can determine whether an AI-based tool can handle a task or not, even with precise task descriptions.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateJan 17, 2019

Pharmacists could dramatically reduce ER visits

A study found that nearly one-third of non-urgent ED visits in Ontario can be managed by pharmacists with an expanded scope of practice, reducing crowdedness and free up resources for more acute cases. The most frequent ED cases that could be managed include skin-related concerns and other minor conditions.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalResearch in Social and Administrative Pharmacy·DateJan 10, 2019

Powder could help cut CO2 emissions

Scientists at the University of Waterloo have created a powder that can capture CO2 from factories and power plants, offering a promising solution to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The powder is twice as efficient as conventional methods and has potential applications in water filtration and energy storage.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalCarbon·DateDec 19, 2018

Drawing is better than writing for memory retention

Researchers at the University of Waterloo found that drawing enhances memory retention in older adults more than traditional study methods. Drawing's unique combination of visual, spatial, verbal, semantic, and motoric representations led to better recall in both young people and senior citizens.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalExperimental Aging Research·DateDec 6, 2018

Carbon emissions will start to dictate stock prices

A new study by University of Waterloo researchers finds that high carbon emissions can lead to stock price depreciation and asset devaluation. Companies in emission-intensive sectors may experience fundamental devaluations in their stocks within 10 years, due to stricter environmental regulations and climate change risks.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJournal of Sustainable Finance & Investment·DateNov 13, 2018

Truck driver pain and discomfort can be alleviated

A Canadian study found that truck drivers experience high rates of musculoskeletal pain and discomfort, with factors including organizational safety climate, job satisfaction, and physical fitness contributing to the issue. The study identified potential solutions, such as holistic programs addressing multiple risk factors, and encoura...

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJournal of Transport & Health·DateOct 29, 2018

Better way found to determine the integrity of metals

A new AI model developed by researchers at the University of Waterloo can accurately detect atomic structures in metals, leading to greater confidence in determining their integrity. The system uses deep learning and generates images of defects to produce a highly effective algorithm for identifying various types of crystal structures.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 30, 2018

AI technology could help protect water supplies

Researchers have developed an AI system that can identify and quantify cyanobacteria in water samples in about one to two hours, reducing the need for expensive lab tests. This tool could provide early warnings of problems, helping to ensure safe drinking water and preventing public health issues.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 18, 2018

Majority of teenagers need food safety education

A new study from the University of Waterloo found that fewer than 50% of recommended food-handling practices were followed by Ontario high school students. The researchers observed significant improvements in thermometer use after a training program, but many students continued to engage in risky behaviors.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJournal of Food Protection·DateJun 26, 2018

Many wildlife-vehicle collisions preventable

A new study from the University of Waterloo found that many wildlife-vehicle collisions in Ontario can be prevented with cost-effective strategies. The study recommends integrating effective measures into wildlife conflict zones during major road work, which could save millions in taxpayer money and insurance costs.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJournal of Environmental Planning and Management·DateJun 21, 2018

Mergers are good news for investors

A new study by the University of Waterloo confirms that mergers create value for investors, improving shareholder value and market share. The research found that firms realize synergies from mergers, benefiting all stakeholders, including consumers who do not face higher prices.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalManagerial and Decision Economics·DateJun 5, 2018