We are introducing the beginning of a new, and hopefully useful, social media section to our site to help students navigate the ever-growing slew of available networks that universities are joining in order to help them communicate with current and future students. In this article we are discussing what we discovered researching Canadian universities on Twitter.

Methodology

We started by collecting and examining all the Canadian universities with active Twitter accounts. We determined that a university could have up to 3 unique official accounts representing the university. The account could either be aimed at current or future students, or be focused on providing news and event campus information for generally everyone affiliated with the university. Sometimes there is overlap or combined efforts in these accounts especially for universities employing only one Twitter account.

Universities do have more than 3 accounts on average but these are more specific . . . → Read More: Canadian Universities on Twitter]]>

We are introducing the beginning of a new, and hopefully useful, social media section to our site to help students navigate the ever-growing slew of available networks that universities are joining in order to help them communicate with current and future students. In this article we are discussing what we discovered researching Canadian universities on Twitter.

Methodology

We started by collecting and examining all the Canadian universities with active Twitter accounts. We determined that a university could have up to 3 unique official accounts representing the university. The account could either be aimed at current or future students, or be focused on providing news and event campus information for generally everyone affiliated with the university. Sometimes there is overlap or combined efforts in these accounts especially for universities employing only one Twitter account.

Universities do have more than 3 accounts on average but these are more specific to the faculties, departments, programs, research group, student groups, alumni, etc. Our criteria were to select the Twitter accounts that represented the main contact for each university. We did also allow for some campuses to be listed on their own if they had their own active account which followed the criteria I outlined above.

Statistics

Overall we discovered 118 official Canadian university accounts as of November 21, 2011. They have tweeted 122,543 times and have garnered 236,229 followers since that first account was established. The first university to register an account on Twitter was Simon Fraser University on August 9, 2007. The most recent account registered was on October 26, 2011 for the Student Service Centre at Saint Mary’s University. To be fair, this is already the second official account created for the university.

The growth of twitter for universities in Canada has followed the classic “S” curve or Sigmoid Curve as you can see in the chart below. The image of an actual “S” curve below the chart reveals how similar they are. The year when Twitter really took for universities in Canada was in 2009 when more than 59% of accounts were created. If you peek deeper into the stats, you can see that from March 1-April 30, 2009, 22% of all accounts were first established. This could be described as the peak moment or tipping point for Twitter on Canadian university campus.

Actual Sigmoid Function

Sigmoid Curve

Currently the growth of new accounts is slowing dramatically but that can be misleading since we are reaching a saturation point due to universities creating all the accounts they may need. However there is a growing trend for universities to develop twitter accounts and media portals focused solely on communicating with potential future or prospective students. The real growth will come from the other university groups which we will discuss in future updates and articles.

Conclusion

Although universities in Canada are very well represented on Twitter, we are still in the early stages in the growth of social media. For example, the average number of followers for a university is just over 2000 while the median is 1024. We will be tracking these stats and others on a periodic basis so we can continue to track the over-all growth of Twitter and social media in Canadian universities.

In the coming weeks and months, we will also continue to introduce additional ways for future or current students to access and navigate successfully through the growing availability of social media networks. For example, we will be introducing next week, the university faculties that are currently represented on Twitter and social media.

Canadian universities on Twitter

Erez Segal is the President of Hecterra Publishing Inc, a Librarian, graduate of the Dalhousie MLIS program and former founding Director of the Pier 21 Museum. canadian-universities.net/ news@canadian-universities.net

This became a project that I spent more time on than I cared to admit. Once the choice was finally made and deposit paid at the end of May, the journey was still not . . . → Read More: Confessions of a University Mom]]> At this time last year I was a fully functional ‘helicopter parent’ hovering around my son as he (correction we) researched his university choices. We spent hours reviewing websites and view books. Attended an education fair. More hours choosing his program and universities. Checked and double checked that he had the required courses. Made sure that his grades and average stayed within the acceptable range. Travelled many miles by car and plane visiting campuses. Completed (or rather helped to complete) admission and scholarship applications by the appropriate deadlines. Listened to far too many presentations. ‘Liked’ a few facebook pages. We even participated in a university activity that involved an overnight stay in residence!

This became a project that I spent more time on than I cared to admit. Once the choice was finally made and deposit paid at the end of May, the journey was still not over.
I then went into overdrive; focusing on campus support services. I knew that the move from high school to university is not smooth for many students and I wanted to be sure that my son was aware of the numerous support services available to him.

I also had lists. Things to do before August. Things to buy. Things to pack.

And then the fateful day arrived. We dropped him off at residence and the project ended. There was nothing further that I could do. I switched from project mode to bystander mode.

Practically all universities have staff and resources devoted to ensuring that first year students make a successful transition. However, there is no support for parents. Where’s my residence don, peer mentor, social rep, faculty advisor, academic counselor, financial aid officer, registrar, program coordinator, career counselor, tutor or health care practitioner?

Most friends and colleagues assume that parents are elated to be rid of our kids. Everyone sees the upside of one less child in the house, one less person to share a bathroom, an unused bedroom that can be turned into that dream office, etc. You are forced to be discreet about your feelings. In fact, I admit that it really does sound silly to say how much you miss an 18 year old!

My son is at a university four hours away from home and I was sure that we could narrow that distance by cell phone, text messaging and Skype. My experience may not be typical, but if you have a student who made a great transition to university finding time to communicate with parents is definitely not a priority.

I thought I was prepared for my son’s move away from home. But it’s much harder that I imagined. However, I can assure you that it does get better and you won’t need any support services!

Cheryl Millington, a former University of Toronto senior administrator with over 25 years experience in recruitment and admissions. She is also the mother of an 18 year old who has just started his undergraduate degree. canadauniversityadmit.blogspot.com

Midwifery is a healthcare profession which offers care to women during pregnancy, labour and birth, and during the postpartum period. Among assisting in the actual birth, midwives also have tasks such as giving injections, setting up IVs, suturing perineal tears, and conducting physical examinations of women and newborn babies. Communication, cultural sensitivity, and counseling are essential for midwives. In contrast to medical doctors, midwives build non-authoritarian relationships with women and their families so they can provide individualized care and minimize much of the anxiety often associated with pregnancy and childbirth.

Midwife home appointment

Midwifery is still a relatively new profession in Canada since becoming legalized, and their numbers remain small. It has become so popular since the 90‘s that many women (of . . . → Read More: Midwifery in Canada]]> It’s one of those professions you were always curious about. Who uses them? Is it legal? And where can you learn how to do it?

Midwifery is a healthcare profession which offers care to women during pregnancy, labour and birth, and during the postpartum period. Among assisting in the actual birth, midwives also have tasks such as giving injections, setting up IVs, suturing perineal tears, and conducting physical examinations of women and newborn babies. Communication, cultural sensitivity, and counseling are essential for midwives. In contrast to medical doctors, midwives build non-authoritarian relationships with women and their families so they can provide individualized care and minimize much of the anxiety often associated with pregnancy and childbirth.

Midwife home appointment

Midwifery is still a relatively new profession in Canada since becoming legalized, and their numbers remain small. It has become so popular since the 90‘s that many women (of all walks of life) who request midwifery services are placed on long waiting lists. Provincial healthcare officials are getting on board too: with the shortage of doctors to provide care to pregnant women, midwives are taking up the slack. Midwives also save the healthcare system, on average, $1200 per birth (due to fewer C-sections, episiotomies, and shorter hospital stays). Because it is now funded by various healthcare systems, midwifery services are free to women living in midwifery-regulated provinces and territories.

So why choose midwifery as a profession? Most midwives say they want to spend time with expectant mothers without having to go through the process of becoming a medical doctor or nurse (although many midwives are also nurses). Others feel the environment of midwifery allows for a more natural and less medicalized way to give birth, since expectant mothers can choose to give birth at home, in a birthing center, or in a traditional hospital (where midwives often have privileges equivalent to medical doctors).

Whatever the reason, prospective midwives undertake a 4-year program available at six schools in Canada, combining classroom study with a hands-on clinical component. During their program students learn the normal conditions affecting pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum care of women and the newborn. They also learn how to counsel mothers and their families on infant care. Because midwifery involves a very intimate relationship with other people, topics such as ethics, when is medical intervention warranted, and confidentiality issues are also discussed at length. Upon completion with a Bachelor’s degree, midwives are ready to enter the workforce. Skilled midwives are very much sought-after, so choosing this as a profession is sure to be very rewarding, both for you, and for all the families you will be helping.

Image source: eyeliam from flickr

My mom has a McGill University bumper sticker on her car. Rather than encouraging coffee dates, it has elicited several blank stares from her Chicago area acquaintances, most of whom are a bit unclear on the concept of Canada (to say nothing of my field as a Canadian Studies major!).

Once she explains the notion of Montreal, people usually . . . → Read More: Fighting Ignorance, one bumper sticker at a time]]> While I was in a mall parking lot one day, I noticed a McGill University bumper sticker on another car. This prompted me to scrawl a hurried note (“Hi! I went to McGill, too! We should be friends! Find me on Facebook!”) and tuck it under her windshield wiper. This led to a series of amusing coffee dates with one Canadian resident of Illinois. (Since several Canadians have asked me, “Isn’t Illinois in Chicago?” I’ll go ahead and clarify that—despite occasional inclinations to the contrary—Chicago is in fact in Illinois.)

My mom has a McGill University bumper sticker on her car. Rather than encouraging coffee dates, it has elicited several blank stares from her Chicago area acquaintances, most of whom are a bit unclear on the concept of Canada (to say nothing of my field as a Canadian Studies major!).

Once she explains the notion of Montreal, people usually follow up with questions about why I chose to attend McGill. The truth involves William Shatner, an application written in rhyming couplets, and a bought with mononucleosis. The abbreviated version is that Canada is a good place to pursue Canadian Studies.

“Now, how did she decide to do Canadian Studies?” is invariably the next question (from intrepid conversationalists – the less curious have usually wandered off by this point). That story involves a study abroad program at Herstmonceux Castle on the south coast of England where a year-long map-drawing, state-naming, province-and-territory-labeling, spelling-with-the-letter-u, and Canadian-celebrity-trivia competition took place in a pub between two Americans (my roommate and I) and a few Canadians. They maintain that they won, and we maintain that we let them win because, for once, they outnumbered us.

To ensure our victory in the next competition, I decided to enroll in just one Canadian Studies course at McGill. One thing led to another, and I wound up treating my entire undergraduate degree as a massive study abroad-esque crash course in all things Canada-land.

While I was working at the cafeteria at McGill (oh, the employment opportunities available to an international student), I encountered a young man sporting a t-shirt bedecked with the logo “Come on feel the Illinoise.” I hadn’t heard of Sufjan Stevens at that point, and I was overjoyed at encountering a fellow Illinois-ian in the GWN (great white north), so I excitedly asked if he was from Illinois. He looked at me blankly for a moment and asked, “What’s that?”

The moral of this story might seem to be that ignorance flows both ways across ye olde 49th parallel. But the message I want to convey is that there are always opportunities to learn from—and to educate—fellow travelers in the world, whether you are far from home or in the grocery store on the south side of Chicago (which, for some people, is the same thing!). I’ve had the chance to do this through my Canadian Studies degrees, but I’m sure you’ve had your own experiences with cultural dissonance, confusing cross-cultural communication, and attaining bemused understanding with new friends. With blogs, bumper stickers, and even band t-shirts, it is easier than ever to find people who share your interests or learn about new topics that pique your curiosity. Education in any form can bring people together in the spirit of dialogue and exchange, and each such encounter has the opportunity to make the world a better (and even friendlier!) place.

As an aside to my very Canadian friends from First Year, I’d like to close with a very American saying: bring it. I’ve been studying my Prime Ministers place mat, volunteering with the NDP, and silently infiltrating your curling matches. I will own you at Canadian trivia.

Conversely, when I was researching undergraduate programs with my son, I was surprised to see most universities reported having more female students than male.

At University of Toronto, Canada’s largest university, the male to female ratio is 44 to 56. Similiar ratios can be found at most Canadian universities. The small handful of notable exceptions is easily explained by the nature of the institution or the focus of their programs. For example, the Royal Military College has a 78 to 22 male to female ratio and the University of Ontario Institute of Technology reported a 59 to 41 ratio.

Mount St. Vincent University has the . . . → Read More: Looking for a Few Good Men]]> One of the issues I lived with for 11 years as the admissions director for University of Toronto’s MBA program was where are the women? Like most MBA programs, we struggled to achieve more of a gender balance in the incoming class.

Conversely, when I was researching undergraduate programs with my son, I was surprised to see most universities reported having more female students than male.

At University of Toronto, Canada’s largest university, the male to female ratio is 44 to 56. Similiar ratios can be found at most Canadian universities. The small handful of notable exceptions is easily explained by the nature of the institution or the focus of their programs. For example, the Royal Military College has a 78 to 22 male to female ratio and the University of Ontario Institute of Technology reported a 59 to 41 ratio.

Mount St. Vincent University has the highest percentage of women with a ratio of 22 to 78. This is not surprising given that at one time they were the only university dedicated to educating women.

Two stand-outs in the crowd are Carleton University and Saint Mary’s University; both have a 50 to 50 ratio. Is this random or based on selective admission? One will never know the real answer, but it may only be a question of time before universities have special recruitment events for male high school students. I’m thinking of an event called “Looking for a Few Good Men.”

What is not known is if there are fewer applications from young men or are the women applying with higher averages. If the men aren’t enrolling in university, they are either attending a community college or going directly into the workforce after high school.

Lately we have seen a number of reports on the return on investment in a university degree. Canadians with a university degree earn, on average, about 40% more than workers with only high school diplomas. However, this wage premium varies greatly depending on sex and age. Young men with degrees realize much smaller earnings advantages over other young men with lower levels of qualifications than highly educated young women do over their less-educated peers.

If this trend continues, can you imagine the changes in our culture and society?

Cheryl Millington, a former University of Toronto senior administrator with over 25 years experience in recruitment and admissions. She is also the mother of an 18 year old who has just started his undergraduate degree. canadauniversityadmit.blogspot.com

If you simply look at the statistics reported by the Ontario University Application Centre it appears that this conclusion is incorrect because the number of confirmations or acceptances of admission offers also increased by 2%.

But it’s not that simple. Some programs had a higher number of applicants while others saw a decrease. The big winners were Social Work (16%), Mathematics (9%) and Engineering (8%). Those programs which saw . . . → Read More: Increase Applications = Less Spaces?]]> A few weeks ago Ontario’s 20 universities reported an overall increase of 2% in high school applications. The 2010 entry year also saw a similar increase of 3%. According to the Council of Ontario Universities this parallels a trend of higher demand for university graduates in the workforce. Two out of three new jobs require post-secondary education. If you’re a glass-is-have-empty person, you are already predicting an increase in the 2012 applications and 2-3% unhappy high school students and parents.

If you simply look at the statistics reported by the Ontario University Application Centre it appears that this conclusion is incorrect because the number of confirmations or acceptances of admission offers also increased by 2%.

But it’s not that simple. Some programs had a higher number of applicants while others saw a decrease. The big winners were Social Work (16%), Mathematics (9%) and Engineering (8%). Those programs which saw a significant decrease were Journalism (-5%), Fine and Applied Arts (-5%) and Landscape Architecture (-4%). Likewise, not every university experienced an increase in applications. Nor does lower applications numbers, lead to a corresponding decrease in students.

As a former director of admissions I know that the numbers published by the Ontario University Application Centre do not tell the whole story. Although the number of confirmations or acceptances of admission offers are published, what’s needed to better analyze the data is the number of admission offers that were made; especially to those who selected a program as their first choice. All applicants are not created equally. Are the additional applications coming from excellent students or are they from below average, but ambitious students? Many applicants simply do not have the required Grade 12 courses or averages and are automatically not admitted.

As a high school student or the parent of one, the numbers you should focus on are the minimum Grade 12 averages for the program in the universities of your choice. These minimums are usually published on the university’s website. If it’s not, just ask an admission representative. But be careful, the pool of the current year’s applicants determines the admission cut-off, so aim to be comfortably above the average.

So relax. Don’t over analyze the increase in applications. The number one thing to do in Grade 12 is to study hard, get good grades and you’ll get good news from the university of your choice.

Cheryl Millington a former University of Toronto senior administrator with over 25 years experience in recruitment and admissions. She is also the mother of an 18 year old who has just started his undergraduate degree. canadauniversityadmit.blogspot.com

Is there a reason why certain areas of town have reputations for being “sketchy,” “dangerous,” or full of crime? What impact does an urban area’s design and layout have on promoting criminal activity?

One Simon Fraser University husband and wife research team–Paul and Patricia Brantingham–have been working to analyze urban crime patterns and find solutions and recommendations for how to make things better. Specifically, they study the impact of factors such as the placement of certain buildings, transit systems and roads as well as hours of shopping centres on the frequency and severity of crime in an area.

The criminologists, who founded SFU’s Institute of Canadian Urban Research Studies (ICURS) in the early 1990s, have recently been given a monetary show of support for their work in the form of a RCMP supported $4-million, five-year renewal of their research chairs to . . . → Read More: SFU Researchers Fight Crime with Urban Design]]>

Paul, Patricia and Jeffery Brantingham (Credit: Simon Fraser University)

Is there a reason why certain areas of town have reputations for being “sketchy,” “dangerous,” or full of crime? What impact does an urban area’s design and layout have on promoting criminal activity?

One Simon Fraser University husband and wife research team–Paul and Patricia Brantingham–have been working to analyze urban crime patterns and find solutions and recommendations for how to make things better. Specifically, they study the impact of factors such as the placement of certain buildings, transit systems and roads as well as hours of shopping centres on the frequency and severity of crime in an area.

The criminologists, who founded SFU’s Institute of Canadian Urban Research Studies (ICURS) in the early 1990s, have recently been given a monetary show of support for their work in the form of a RCMP supported $4-million, five-year renewal of their research chairs to continue their studies.

The Brantingham’s work shows that crime fighting can come in many ways; if effective, their studies could offer peaceful solutions to dangerous situations.

Defeating crime with urban design [Simon Fraser University]

Jeff Chiba Stearns (Credit: Emily Carr University of Art + Design)

Emily Carr University of Art + Design alum Jeff Chiba Stearns has been awarded the Edith Lando Peace Prize for this documentary film—which focuses on perceptions of multiculturalism—”One Big Hapa Family.”

The Edith Lando Peace Prize was awarded at the recent Reel to Real International Film Festival in Vancouver, British Columbia.

Jeff Chiba Stearns Wins the Edith Lando Peace Prize at the Reel to Real Film Fest [Emily Carr University of Art + Design]

Carleton University Professor Tony Bailetti has been awarded the 2011 Ottawa Innovation Community award from the Ottawa Centre for Research and Innovation (OCRI). Professor Bailetti, who is faculty in the Carleton University Department of Systems and Computer Engineering and the Sprott School of Business, received the award for his work related to the economic development of the Ottawa, Ontario region.

“Tony has been instrumental in developing very successful local ecosystems including Lead to Win and Coral CEA, and the LTW companies represent a significant portion of the successful start-ups in Ottawa over the past two years,” said Claude Haw, president and CEO of the OCRI.

Carleton Professor Tony Bailetti Honoured by OCRI [Carleton University]

The Canada Reads Poetry competition—hosted by the CBC and the National Post—took place over three weeks and included the works of five poets. Each work was defended by a panelist online and then put to a public vote.

Wong, an Associate Professor in Critical and Cultural Studies, had her work defensed by Sonnet L’Abbe in the competition. Speaking of the win, L’Abbe said “when I chose forage as the poetry book Canada should read, I thought I was going out on a limb, recommending a young writer’s book, so experimental in style and so vocal about its environmentalism. But since the Canada Reads Poetry contest began, people have written to tell me how much they love . . . → Read More: Emily Carr professor’s book forage wins Canada Reads Poetry 2011]]> Topping off last month’s National Poetry Month, Emily Carr University of Art + Design Associate Professor Rita Wong‘s book “forage” has been selected as the winner of Canada Reads Poetry competition for 2011.

The Canada Reads Poetry competition—hosted by the CBC and the National Post—took place over three weeks and included the works of five poets. Each work was defended by a panelist online and then put to a public vote.

Wong, an Associate Professor in Critical and Cultural Studies, had her work defensed by Sonnet L’Abbe in the competition. Speaking of the win, L’Abbe said “when I chose forage as the poetry book Canada should read, I thought I was going out on a limb, recommending a young writer’s book, so experimental in style and so vocal about its environmentalism. But since the Canada Reads Poetry contest began, people have written to tell me how much they love this book. This win confirms that Rita Wong speaks to our present moment, and that Canadians want to hear her voice!”

Associate Professor Rita Wong’s book, forage, has been selected as the Canada Reads Poetry 2011 Champion! [Emily Carr University of Art + Design]

Since earning a Bachelor’s degree from McGill University more than fifty years ago, Mortimer Zuckerman has been busy creating an empire of real estate, media and philanthropy. As such, the university will recognize Zuckerman with a special honorary degree at this spring’s convocation ceremories.

Zuckerman graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree from McGill in 1957. He currently chairs the real estate group Boston Properties, is editor-in-chief of the U.S. News & World Report, and publisher of the New York Daily News in addition to performing charity work in the areas of education, children’s causes, and cancer research.

Mortimer Zuckerman to be awarded honorary degree [McGill University]

Dr. Michel Laroche (Credit: Concordia)

Teenagers are prime consumers, and understanding the cultural differences that influence how and where they spend their money could be of great importance to marketers. The study, which used data from 1,289 Chinese and 305 Canadian teenagers, found that—when it comes to spending—Canadian teens tend to make their own decisions . . . → Read More: Marketing to Mom? Study compares Canadian and Chinese teen consumer patterns]]> Growing up, I can’t remember a time where I wasn’t the target of some sort of advertising—whether it be for Barbies, Tamagotchi pets, or iPods. As a kid, commercials were distinctly aimed at me, and it was my job to find a way to acquire whatever the product du jour was.  According to a new joint study from Concordia University and the University of Texas, this adolescent-directed consumerism was likely the result of where I grew up: Canada. The study found distinct differences in the consumer patterns of adolescents in Canada and China.

Dr. Michel Laroche (Credit: Concordia)

Teenagers are prime consumers, and understanding the cultural differences that influence how and where they spend their money could be of great importance to marketers. The study, which used data from 1,289 Chinese and 305 Canadian teenagers, found that—when it comes to spending—Canadian teens tend to make their own decisions while Chinese teens tend to turn to their parents for influence when shopping. The researchers suggest that this discrepancy in consumer behavior may have roots in cultural child-rearing practices: Eastern cultures often value looking to others for guidance, while Western cultures tend to value self-reliance.

Giving context to the results of the study, Concordia professor Michel Laroche explained that “We knew that Chinese adolescents tend to be interdependent, obedient and to conform to the group, while Canadian teens are more likely to be independent, autonomous, assertive and individualistic. We found parenting strategy is the key. It transfers core values from one generation to the next.”

Teen consumer patterns in China and Canada [Concordia University]

In addition to his place as university Chancellor, Kerr is the Managing Partner of two companies—Lignum Forest Products LLP and the Vancouver Professional Baseball LLP—as well as co-ower of the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Club.

Chancellor John C. Kerr Reappointed [Emily Carr University of Art + Design]

Ian Penny (Credit: Dalhousie University)

Acadia University has selected Kevin Dickie as its new Director of Athletics. Dickie—a long-time coach currently stationed as Director of Athletics at the University of New Brunswick—said of the appointment that “I’ll always appreciate the opportunity UNB gave me six years ago, but I’m really looking forward to taking my skills and experience to Acadia. The commitment Acadia’s senior leadership team has shown to make me a part of the Acadia family is a wonderful opportunity for me as well as Cindy and our two boys. We’re looking forward to coming to Acadia and back to the Valley. Acadia is headed in a very positive direction and it’s going to be exciting to be part of it.” [Acadia University] Chancellor Henry Champ has been approved to serve a second term at Brandon University. Champ, who is also a Brandon University alum and . . . → Read More: Movers and Shakers: Kevin Dickie Director of Athletics at Acadia, Henry Champ’s 2nd Term at Brandon]]>

Kevin Dickie (Credit: Acadia University)

Acadia University has selected Kevin Dickie as its new Director of Athletics. Dickie—a long-time coach currently stationed as Director of Athletics at the University of New Brunswick—said of the appointment that “I’ll always appreciate the opportunity UNB gave me six years ago, but I’m really looking forward to taking my skills and experience to Acadia. The commitment Acadia’s senior leadership team has shown to make me a part of the Acadia family is a wonderful opportunity for me as well as Cindy and our two boys. We’re looking forward to coming to Acadia and back to the Valley. Acadia is headed in a very positive direction and it’s going to be exciting to be part of it.” [Acadia University]

Chancellor Henry Champ has been approved to serve a second term at Brandon University. Champ, who is also a Brandon University alum and former CBC Newsworld correspondent, has worked on a number of initiatives during his first term at the university, including working on integrating American students into the university. “Henry’s enthusiasm, energy and commitment to Brandon University is exceptional. His focus on students is wonderful. I am so pleased that Chancellor Champ will be with us for another term,” said Deborah Poff, Brandon University’s President and Vice-Chancellor. [Brandon University]

A new documentary called Crisis on Tap: First Nations Water for Life looks at shortages of clean water in First Nations communities and the resulting health implications of these shortages.

Produced by the University of Victoria’s Centre for Aboriginal Health Research (CAHR) and Cedarwood Productions, the documentary will be screened on Tuesday, April 26th at 3:30pm at the University of Victoria.

The trailer for the film can be seen below:

DON’T DRINK THE WATER [University of . . . → Read More: UVIC Documentary examines water quality of First Nation reserves]]> Water is one of the essential building blocks of life, but some Canadian communities may not have access to clean, drinkable water. With over 150 boil-water advisories currently in place on Canadian First Nations reserves, many First Nations people feel that their water is not safe to drink. Researchers suggest that consuming this unsafe water may have slow-showing but long-term health repercussions for those that consume it.

A new documentary called Crisis on Tap: First Nations Water for Life looks at shortages of clean water in First Nations communities and the resulting health implications of these shortages.

Produced by the University of Victoria’s Centre for Aboriginal Health Research (CAHR) and Cedarwood Productions, the documentary will be screened on Tuesday, April 26th at 3:30pm at the University of Victoria.

The trailer for the film can be seen below:

DON’T DRINK THE WATER [University of Victoria]

University of Lethbridge professor and Vice-President Research Emeritus Dr. Dennis Fitzpatrick will be the new Vice-President, Research at the University of Regina. Dr. Fitzpatrick will begin in this new role in July. University of Lethbridge President Mike Mahon said of Dr. Fitzpatrick’s appointment, “this is an excellent opportunity for Dennis. His contributions here were significant, and we wish him well in this new role at the University of Regina.”

Dr Dennis Fitzpatrick Appointed VP Research at University of Regina [University of Lethbridge]

According to the six-year, multi-authored study, the amount of ice loss in the Canadian glaciers tripled between 2007 to 2009—losing 92 billion tonnes of ice per year in that period—when compared to the level of ice lost in the period from 2004 to 2006. The increase in ice loss translates to sea-level rises.

“A sixth of a millimetre of sea-level rise per year might not sound like much”, said study co-author Professor J. Graham Cogley from Trent University, “but it adds up, year on year, and recent studies have confirmed that the actual rise varies around the world. Some places, including the Maritimes and New . . . → Read More: Canadian Glaciers Losing Their Cool]]> Warmer temperatures at Canada’s northern glaciers are causing them to rapidly lose ice and contribute to rising sea levels, reports a new study entitled “Sharply increased mass loss from glaciers and ice caps in the Canadian Arctic Archipelago” published in this month’s Nature journal.

According to the six-year, multi-authored study, the amount of ice loss in the Canadian glaciers tripled between 2007 to 2009—losing 92 billion tonnes of ice per year in that period—when compared to the level of ice lost in the period from 2004 to 2006. The increase in ice loss translates to sea-level rises.

“A sixth of a millimetre of sea-level rise per year might not sound like much”, said study co-author Professor J. Graham Cogley from Trent University, “but it adds up, year on year, and recent studies have confirmed that the actual rise varies around the world. Some places, including the Maritimes and New England, can expect more sea-level rise than the average in coming decades.”

Research by Trent University Professor Documents Ice Loss from Canadian Glaciers [Trent University]

Emily Carr University of Art + Design student Andrew Dadson has been selected to receive The Brink Award for 2011 from the Henry Art Gallery at the University of Washington.

The biennial award is given in recognition of an artist on “the brink” of their promising career in art. Recipients of the award receive a $12,500 monetary prize and a solo exhibition of their work. Additionally, one of Dadson’s pieces will be acquired as part of the gallery’s permanent collection.

In the study, published by Canadian Medical Association Journal, researchers examined 559 incidents of concussions (classified as head injuries caused by traumatic force) experienced by NHL players between 1997 and 2004. With an estimated 1.8 concussions per 1000 NHL player-hours, the study found that those suffering head injuries reported the most common post-impact symptoms as headache and dizziness.

Over the . . . → Read More: Hockey Heads: Conclusions on Concussions in the NHL]]> Anyone tuning into a hockey game in the heat of playoff action can see that players put their all on the ice—often sacrificing their bodies to the sport. Aggressive play often leads to aggressive injuries, but are players taking more time to protect their minds after suffering concussions and head injuries? A new Canadian study — produced by the University of Calgary in cooperation with the National Hockey League (NHL) — found that while incidence of concussion have gone down, the time it takes to recover has gone up.

In the study, published by Canadian Medical Association Journal, researchers examined 559 incidents of concussions (classified as head injuries caused by traumatic force) experienced by NHL players between 1997 and 2004. With an estimated 1.8 concussions per 1000 NHL player-hours, the study found that those suffering head injuries reported the most common post-impact symptoms as headache and dizziness.

Over the seven-year study period, researchers found that—although incidence of concussions declined from 7.7 concussions per 100 players in 2000-2001 to 4.9 concussions per 100 players in 2003-2004— there was a gradual increase of the length of time players took to recover from head injuries. Specifically, throughout the study period, the average time loss due to concussion increased by 2.25 times. This increase in post concussion time loss, according to lead researcher Dr. Brian Benson “may be an indication of either greater severity or greater caution in treatment.”

Dr. Brian Benson (Credit: University of Calgary)

Using the results of the study as evidence, Benson asserts that concussions in the NHL should be treated seriously—while the symptoms may seem relatively mild, concussions can be career ending. “More should be done to educate everyone involved about the potential adverse effects associated with continuing to play while symptomatic, failing to report symptoms to medical staff and failure to recognize or evaluate any suspected concussion.”

While athletes may want to jump back into the game or dismiss symptoms, the study authors stress that it is important that “more conservative or precautionary measures should be taken in the immediate post-concussion period, particularly when an athlete reports/experiences a post-concussion headache, low energy/fatigue, amnesia, recurrent concussion, many different postconcussion symptoms, or has an abnormal neurologic exam,” conclude the authors.

Benson completed the research with fellow University of Calgary professor Dr. Willem Meeuwisse and Dr. Jian Kang. They worked in correlation with Dr. John Rizos from the University of Toronto and Dr. Charles Burke from the University of Pittsburgh.

The study is one of the first stepping stones to the University of Calgary opening a state-of-the-art Concussion Centre and clinical research program. The Centre and program will be based in The Sport Medicine Centre in the University of Calgary’s Faculty of Kinesiology.

Dr. Benson discusses the study further, via the University of Calgary YouTube channel, below:

Study sheds light on NHL concussions [University of Calgary]

Queen’s University History Professor Dr. Ian McKay’s book “In the Province of History: The making of the public past in twentieth-century Nova Scotia” has been awarded the International Council for Canadian Studies’ (ICCS) Pierre Savard Award. The award honours outstanding scholarly monographs on a Canadian topic.

McKay’s book, which was co-authored by University of Chicago PhD candidate Robin Bates, provides an in-depth look how the province of Nova Scotia selectively uses its history to promote tourism. The book examines what people have come to recognize as symbols of Nova Scotia and the actual historical significance of those symbols.

In response to the award, Dr. McKay says “It’s such a nice development. It’s a very local book, but it’s received all this attention from all over the world. It’s very nice to have a global audience and to attach our local interests to . . . → Read More: Nova Scotian Nostalgia: Queen’s Professor’s Book Wins International Award]]>

Dr. Ian McKay (Credit: Queen's University)

Queen’s University History Professor Dr. Ian McKay’s book “In the Province of History: The making of the public past in twentieth-century Nova Scotia” has been awarded the International Council for Canadian Studies’ (ICCS) Pierre Savard Award. The award honours outstanding scholarly monographs on a Canadian topic.

McKay’s book, which was co-authored by University of Chicago PhD candidate Robin Bates, provides an in-depth look how the province of Nova Scotia selectively uses its history to promote tourism. The book examines what people have come to recognize as symbols of Nova Scotia and the actual historical significance of those symbols.

In response to the award, Dr. McKay says “It’s such a nice development. It’s a very local book, but it’s received all this attention from all over the world. It’s very nice to have a global audience and to attach our local interests to global interests.”

History professor’s book wins international award [Queen's University]

Nipissing University education student and environmentalist Kate Jeffery has been awarded a Dr. David Suzuki Fellowship from the Dr. Eric Jackman Institute of Child Study Laboratory School in recognition of her work in pre-service Environmental Education of elementary school children. Jeffery will use the fellowship—for which she will receive a monetary gift and the chance to spend a week immersion at the at the Dr. Eric Jackman Institute of Child Study Laboratory School—to further her work in Environmental Education. “My goal is to be a life-long promoter of Environmental Education.  I see myself working with kids as a teacher to promote Environmental Education both inside and outside the classroom.”

Schulich student wins Suzuki Fellowship [Nipissing University]

University of Manitoba Professor Lotfallah Shafai has been selected to win the 2011 Killam Prize in Engineering in recognition of his contributions to the field of electromagnetic communications. Dr. Shafai’s work has contributed to a variety of technologies, including wireless and satellite communications, remote sensing, radar metrology, radio astronomy, medical diagnostics and electromagnetic mapping of Arctic sea ice. [University of Manitoba]

Drug addiction is a dangerous and unstable affliction that puts users at great risk for overdose and often death. Faced with this reality, an experimental medically-supervised injection facility called Insite—the first in North America—was opened in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside in September of 2003. The controversial facility operates as a place where users take pre-obtained drugs under the supervision of trained nurses. The facility also provides users with access to counselors and addiction treatment options.

The UBC study compared coroners’ records for illicit drug overdose deaths in Vancouver between January 1, 2001 and December 31, 2005. Overdose deaths in the immediate vicinity of Insite declined by 35 per cent after the opening . . . → Read More: Impact of Insite: UBC Study of Vancouver’s Supervised Drug Injection Facility]]> Does supervised injection reduce the incidence of illicit drug overdose deaths? According to a new study from researchers at the University of British Columbia and the British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, the answer is yes.

Drug addiction is a dangerous and unstable affliction that puts users at great risk for overdose and often death. Faced with this reality, an experimental medically-supervised injection facility called Insite—the first in North America—was opened in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside in September of 2003. The controversial facility operates as a place where users take pre-obtained drugs under the supervision of trained nurses. The facility also provides users with access to counselors and addiction treatment options.

The UBC study compared coroners’ records for illicit drug overdose deaths in Vancouver between January 1, 2001 and December 31, 2005. Overdose deaths in the immediate vicinity of Insite declined by 35 per cent after the opening of the facility; in comparison, overdose deaths in the rest of the city declined by only nine per cent.

Co-author Dr. Julio Montaner attests, “This study provides the first unequivocal scientific evidence of the benefits of supervised injection facilities, and clearly demonstrates that facilities such as Insite are saving lives and playing a vital role in reducing the harms associated with illicit drug use.”

Overdose deaths down 35 per cent after opening of Vancouver’s supervised injection site: UBC-BC-CfE study [University of British Columbia]

Led by Neena Chappell, the Canada Research Chair in Social Gerontology at the University of Victoria, and Marcus Hollander, president of Hollander Analytical Services, the report points out ways for Canadians to create a more cost-efficient system by utilizing better organized and more integrated management healthcare systems and services.

Dr. Jamie Metsala has been appointed as the Gail and Stephen Jarislowsky Chair in Learning Disabilities for Mount Saint Vincent University—the first Chair of its kind in Canada.

Dr. Metsala, who most recently worked as an Associate Professor at the University of Western Ontario, has focused her career research on cognitive and linguistic influences on children with learning disabilities.

As Chair, Dr. Metsala will work to teach, research and develop courses to provide MSVU graduates with the knowledge and skills to identify and teach children with learning disabilities in a classroom setting. “The appointment of Dr. Metsala as the Chair in Learning Disabilities is an important part of the Mount’s commitment to research and education,” says Dr. Ramona Lumpkin, University President and Vice-Chancellor. “With the generous contributions of our supporters, the Mount is positioned to play a lead role in . . . → Read More: Movers and Shakers: First Canadian Chair in Learning Disabilities at MSVU]]>

Dr. Jamie Metsala (Credit: University of Western Ontario)

Dr. Jamie Metsala has been appointed as the Gail and Stephen Jarislowsky Chair in Learning Disabilities for Mount Saint Vincent University—the first Chair of its kind in Canada.

Dr. Metsala, who most recently worked as an Associate Professor at the University of Western Ontario, has focused her career research on cognitive and linguistic influences on children with learning disabilities.

As Chair, Dr. Metsala will work to teach, research and develop courses to provide MSVU graduates with the knowledge and skills to identify and teach children with learning disabilities in a classroom setting. “The appointment of Dr. Metsala as the Chair in Learning Disabilities is an important part of the Mount’s commitment to research and education,” says Dr. Ramona Lumpkin, University President and Vice-Chancellor. “With the generous contributions of our supporters, the Mount is positioned to play a lead role in developing new understandings and responses to learning disabilities.”

Carleton University‘s Dr. David Sinclair has been selected to receive the first ever Canadian Association of Physicists (CAP) -TRIUMF Vogt medal—created in honour of fellow Canadian researcher Erich Vogt—in recognition of his work with neutrino physics in the Sudbury Neutrino Observation (SNO). Regarding the award, Sinclair said, “Canada has such a strong program in subatomic physics encompassing the whole spectrum of nuclear physics because there are so many very accomplished scientists working in this field. Working with Carleton’s SNOLAB group has enabled innovative research, helping us advance understanding in nuclear and particle physics.” [Carleton University]

Dr. Tony Bailetti (Credit: Carleton University)

A former University of Waterloo student, 23-year-old Ted Livingston, has made a US$1-million dollar donation to help fund the University’s VeloCity residence project for student entrepreneurs. The donation will be used to fund student start-up ventures for several years to come. Livingston—founder and CEO of Kik Interactive Inc.—lived in the VeloCity residence in 2009. [University of Waterloo]

Home is where the heart is, but is it always safe for small children? Simon Fraser University‘s Bruce Lanphear is working to find out—and suggests Canadian policy makers do the same.

“Injuries that occur in the home are the most common and preventable injuries. Cuts, bruises, burns, poisonings or falls are not usually severe or fatal, but falling down stairs or out of an open window can result in serious injuries or death. Ingestions, fires or poisonings occur frequently and can be serious or fatal.”

A Randomized Controlled Trial of Home Injury Hazard Reduction, published in the Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine in April 2011, is a two-year study out of Cincinnati, OH exploring the use of safety devices in 300 households with young children and their effectiveness in protecting well-being, versus the households that used no safety devices at all.

Bruce Lanphear (Credit: . . . → Read More: Safeguarding Children: SFU Study on the Efficacy of the Baby Gate]]>

Home is where the heart is, but is it always safe for small children? Simon Fraser University‘s Bruce Lanphear is working to find out—and suggests Canadian policy makers do the same.

“Injuries that occur in the home are the most common and preventable injuries. Cuts, bruises, burns, poisonings or falls are not usually severe or fatal, but falling down stairs or out of an open window can result in serious injuries or death. Ingestions, fires or poisonings occur frequently and can be serious or fatal.”

A Randomized Controlled Trial of Home Injury Hazard Reduction, published in the Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine in April 2011, is a two-year study out of Cincinnati, OH exploring the use of safety devices in 300 households with young children and their effectiveness in protecting well-being, versus the households that used no safety devices at all.

Bruce Lanphear (Credit: SFU)

The study—which focuses on safety devices such as stairway gates, electrical outlet covers and cabinet locks—has co-investigator Lanphear asking the Canadian policy makers to review the findings from the international study concerning safety in homes with young children. Lanphear collaborated with five other researchers—including lead investigator Dr. Kieran J. Phelan—at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Centre in research aimed at discovering the efficacy of home safety devices in the first two years of a infant’s life.

The research team determined that by installing safety devices in the home, 70 per cent of preventable injuries could be avoided—resulting in house-related injuries dropping 30 per cent overall.

While Lanphear realizes that the American-based home safety device study may not yield the same results in Canada, he does stress that the leading cause of hospital visits by children is due to accidents in the home—a fact that exists in both countries.

“The results of this study are important because injuries are the leading cause of morbidity, mortality and disability in Canada and other developed countries,” explains Lanphear.

At present Lanphear and the rest of the Cincinnati team will be broadening their study to include participants at greater risk of household injury, with a particular focus on low-income homes and first-time mothers.

Hopefully the research Lanphear and his team have conducted will increase the awareness surrounding the use of safety devices in the home will encourage new parents to do all they can to protect those they love from birth.

Home-safety devices reduce childhood injuries [Simon Fraser University]

The University of Victoria has appointed distinguished lawyer M. Jerry McHale, Q.C. as the Lam Chair in Law and Public Policy.

McHale will serve a two-year term—beginning in July—in the position and will serve to provide his expertise in the area of dispute resolution to students and researchers at the university.

“We are pleased to announce this joint appointment,” says dean of the Faculty of Human and Social Development, Mary Ellen Purkis. “Mr. McHale’s experience as a practitioner and policy expert will be a valued addition to our program and the broader social justice interests within our faculty.”

Distinguished Lawyer Named Lam Chair At UVic [University of Victoria]

Vancouver philanthropist Djavad Mowafaghian has made a $15 million dollar donation to the University of British Columbia‘s Faculty of Medicine—the largest gift ever to that faculty—to support a new facility for brain research and patient care. The facility, which will be named in Mowafaghian’s honour the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, will be 12,500-square-metres and is scheduled to open in 2013.

“Dr. Mowafaghian’s generous gift will unite research in neuroscience, mental health and addiction medicine while bringing research and patient care under one roof,” said UBC President Stephen Toope. “The new Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health will also accelerate the process from bench side to bedside.”

UBC announces largest ever gift to Faculty of Medicine: $15M towards Centre for Brain Health [University of British . . . → Read More: Philanthropist Djavad Mowafaghian Makes $15M Gift for UBC Centre for Brain Health]]>

Djavad Mowafaghian (Credit: Martin Dee, UBC)

Vancouver philanthropist Djavad Mowafaghian has made a $15 million dollar donation to the University of British Columbia‘s Faculty of Medicine—the largest gift ever to that faculty—to support a new facility for brain research and patient care. The facility, which will be named in Mowafaghian’s honour the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, will be 12,500-square-metres and is scheduled to open in 2013.

“Dr. Mowafaghian’s generous gift will unite research in neuroscience, mental health and addiction medicine while bringing research and patient care under one roof,” said UBC President Stephen Toope. “The new Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health will also accelerate the process from bench side to bedside.”

UBC announces largest ever gift to Faculty of Medicine: $15M towards Centre for Brain Health [University of British Columbia]

In a new study—facilitated by the University of Western Ontario’s Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry—researchers have discovered a new link between marijuana and how the brain processes emotional information. The study, led by assistant professor Steven Laviolette, has also given researchers a better look into why marijuana use in adolescence can be a cause of schizophrenia later in life. Laviolette’s study has been published in The Journal of Neuroscience.

Researchers have discovered that cannabinoid receptors (which are trigged by cannabis drugs, such as marijuana) can directly “influence the significance of emotional information and memory processes.” Cannabinoid receptors are located in the amygdala, a section of the brain that, when abnormal, is a contributing factor to schizophrenia.

Laviolette states that “We know there are abnormalities in both the amygdala and prefrontal cortex in patients who have schizophrenia, and we now know these same . . . → Read More: Marijuana and the Mind: UWO Researchers Identify Critical Brain Pathway]]>

Credit: University of Western Ontario

In a new study—facilitated by the University of Western Ontario’s Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry—researchers have discovered a new link between marijuana and how the brain processes emotional information. The study, led by assistant professor Steven Laviolette, has also given researchers a better look into why marijuana use in adolescence can be a cause of schizophrenia later in life. Laviolette’s study has been published in The Journal of Neuroscience.

Researchers have discovered that cannabinoid receptors (which are trigged by cannabis drugs, such as marijuana) can directly “influence the significance of emotional information and memory processes.” Cannabinoid receptors are located in the amygdala, a section of the brain that, when abnormal, is a contributing factor to schizophrenia.

Laviolette states that “We know there are abnormalities in both the amygdala and prefrontal cortex in patients who have schizophrenia, and we now know these same brain areas are critical to the effects of marijuana and other cannabinoid drugs on emotional processing.”

Moreover, researchers have also discovered a “new brain pathway” that, when cannabinoid drugs are in your system, negatively affects the way emotions are developed. This, if heavy marijuana use continues, can lead to side-effects such as paranoia.

However, researchers also noted that because of the effects marijuana has on this section of the brain, it could also be used to “help patients with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder who have difficulty controlling the resurgence of highly emotional events into their memory.”

Marijuana, the brain & emotional significance [University of Western Ontario]

According to new research from the University of Western Ontario, tangerines may offer more benefits than simply being tasty. Led by biologists Murray Huff and Erin Mulvihill, the study—published in the journal Diabetes—reveals that tangerines contain a substance called Nobiletin that may help prevent obesity as well as protect against type 2 diabetes and atherosclerosis.

The study—funded by the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario and the Pfizer Canada Cardiovascular Research Program—followed two groups of mice who were fed diets either with or without Nobiletin added. The group of mice on the Nobiletin-enriched diet experienced no elevation in their levels of dangerous substances such as cholesterol, triglycerides, insulin or glucose.

“The Nobiletin-treated mice were basically protected from obesity,” says Huff, the Director of the Vascular Biology Research Group at Robarts.  “And in longer-term studies, Nobiletin also protected these animals from atherosclerosis, the buildup of plaque . . . → Read More: Juicy Research: Tangerines Help Fight Obesity, Diabetes, Heart Disease]]>

Photo Credit: turtlemom4bacon

According to new research from the University of Western Ontario, tangerines may offer more benefits than simply being tasty. Led by biologists Murray Huff and Erin Mulvihill, the study—published in the journal Diabetes—reveals that tangerines contain a substance called Nobiletin that may help prevent obesity as well as protect against type 2 diabetes and atherosclerosis.

The study—funded by the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario and the Pfizer Canada Cardiovascular Research Program—followed two groups of mice who were fed diets either with or without Nobiletin added. The group of mice on the Nobiletin-enriched diet experienced no elevation in their levels of dangerous substances such as cholesterol, triglycerides, insulin or glucose.

“The Nobiletin-treated mice were basically protected from obesity,” says Huff, the Director of the Vascular Biology Research Group at Robarts.  “And in longer-term studies, Nobiletin also protected these animals from atherosclerosis, the buildup of plaque in arteries, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke.  This study really paves the way for future studies to see if this is a suitable treatment for metabolic syndrome and related conditions in people.”

Substance in tangerines fights obesity and protects against heart disease [University of Western Ontario]

Beans may be more than delicious—they could also be an important bio-friendly material. A new multi-university collaboration between the University of Windsor, University of Guelph, University of Western Ontario and Agriculture & Agri-Food Canada will work to map the genome sequence for dry bean in order to better understand the potential of beans.

Dr. Bill Crosby, a biology professor from the University of Windsor, will work to research and analyze the genetic data in beans. In doing so, Crosby and the other researchers hope to find ways to make beans more resistant to disease in order to reduce loss of bean crops. If successful, greater yields of bean crops could be harvested—improving industry—and used to create more bio-products such as plastics and biodegradeable products.

“This is one of the first large-scale agricultural bio-renewable projects that has come to the University of . . . → Read More: Building a Better Bean: University Collaboration to Map Genome of Beans]]>

Dr. Bill Crosby (Credit: University of Windsor)

Beans may be more than delicious—they could also be an important bio-friendly material. A new multi-university collaboration between the University of Windsor, University of Guelph, University of Western Ontario and Agriculture & Agri-Food Canada will work to map the genome sequence for dry bean in order to better understand the potential of beans.

Dr. Bill Crosby, a biology professor from the University of Windsor, will work to research and analyze the genetic data in beans. In doing so, Crosby and the other researchers hope to find ways to make beans more resistant to disease in order to reduce loss of bean crops. If successful, greater yields of bean crops could be harvested—improving industry—and used to create more bio-products such as plastics and biodegradeable products.

“This is one of the first large-scale agricultural bio-renewable projects that has come to the University of Windsor,” Crosby said. “It’s significant because we’re among the most agriculturally productive areas in the country. There’s great potential to expand the role of the university in developing this key component of the regional economy of Southwestern Ontario.”

Biologist hopes research will help build a better bean [University of Windsor]

Structural view of mineral "rogermitchellite." (Credit: Lakehead University)

“Rogermitchellite” is a transparent mineral species discovered at Mont Saint-Hilaire, Québec by Laurentian University Professor of Mineralogy Dr. Andrew McDonald. Dr. McDonald proposed Dr. Mitchell’s name for the mineral to the International Mineralogical Association (IMA) to honour Mitchell’s work in the field.

“There are only about 5,000 named minerals in existence,” says Mitchell. “The naming of new minerals is quite a complex process that involves several stages of approval by international committees. While there are several other Canadian mineralogists who have minerals named after them, names are not given on an ad hoc basis. They have to be approved and there are a lot of rules. I am honoured that my work in mineralogy and petrology has . . . → Read More: Recognizing Research: New Mineral Named After Lakehead Professor]]> Dr. Roger Mitchell, Professor Emeritus at Lakehead University, has been awarded with a truly organic honour—he has a newly-discovered mineral named after him.

Structural view of mineral "rogermitchellite." (Credit: Lakehead University)

“Rogermitchellite” is a transparent mineral species discovered at Mont Saint-Hilaire, Québec by Laurentian University Professor of Mineralogy Dr. Andrew McDonald. Dr. McDonald proposed Dr. Mitchell’s name for the mineral to the International Mineralogical Association (IMA) to honour Mitchell’s work in the field.

“There are only about 5,000 named minerals in existence,” says Mitchell. “The naming of new minerals is quite a complex process that involves several stages of approval by international committees. While there are several other Canadian mineralogists who have minerals named after them, names are not given on an ad hoc basis. They have to be approved and there are a lot of rules. I am honoured that my work in mineralogy and petrology has been acknowledged in this way.”

Lakehead Professor Emeritus Honoured with Mineral Species Name and Joint-Principal Editor Appointment [Lakehead University]

These new degrees, which offer applied Master’s training experience, are the first of their kind to be offered in Western Canada. The programs will be structured to combine science-based knowledge and building-industry skill sets. Each degree can be completed either full-time or part-time.

“BCIT is an active participant in applied research, and these Master’s programs will enable BCIT and the Building Science Centre of Excellence to further contribute to the prosperity of British Columbia,” says Don Wright, President of BCIT. “This achievement is the result of the leadership and direction of Wayne Hand and Fitsum Tariku of the BCIT School of Construction and the Environment, as well as the efforts of many faculty, staff, and students.”

BCIT launches first-ever Building Science Masters’ . . . → Read More: Program Notes: BCIT Introduces New Building Science Masters’ Degrees]]> The British Columbia Institute of Technology is launching two new Masters degrees—Building Science: a Master of Engineering and a Master of Applied Science in Building Science.

These new degrees, which offer applied Master’s training experience, are the first of their kind to be offered in Western Canada. The programs will be structured to combine science-based knowledge and building-industry skill sets. Each degree can be completed either full-time or part-time.

“BCIT is an active participant in applied research, and these Master’s programs will enable BCIT and the Building Science Centre of Excellence to further contribute to the prosperity of British Columbia,” says Don Wright, President of BCIT. “This achievement is the result of the leadership and direction of Wayne Hand and Fitsum Tariku of the BCIT School of Construction and the Environment, as well as the efforts of many faculty, staff, and students.”

BCIT launches first-ever Building Science Masters’ degrees in Western Canada [British Columbia Institute of Columbia]

University of Saskatchewan Mediation Advocacy Moot Team (Credit: University of Saskatchewan)

Credit: McGill

In a world filled with tragedy and turmoil, the natural tendency for newsmakers might be to play up the shock value of destruction. However—according to a new study from McGill University and the Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research of the Jewish General Hospital—the Canadian print media is increasingly hedging on the side of hope when it comes to cancer coverage.

The study, led by Dr. Melissa Henry, examines cancer portrayals in six major Canadian newspapers from the late 1980’s to 2008. Dr. Henry explains the impetus behind the study: “Knowledge of how newspapers portray cancer is essential. It has the power to affect how individuals relate to cancer, it motivates information seeking and promotes preventive behaviours.”

According to the study, cancer coverage has amplified throughout this period in both quantity and positivity, with more cancer-related stories focusing on positive topics such as survival, awareness, . . . → Read More: Helpful Headlines: Impact of Cancer Coverage in Canadian Print]]>

Credit: McGill

In a world filled with tragedy and turmoil, the natural tendency for newsmakers might be to play up the shock value of destruction. However—according to a new study from McGill University and the Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research of the Jewish General Hospital—the Canadian print media is increasingly hedging on the side of hope when it comes to cancer coverage.

The study, led by Dr. Melissa Henry, examines cancer portrayals in six major Canadian newspapers from the late 1980’s to 2008. Dr. Henry explains the impetus behind the study: “Knowledge of how newspapers portray cancer is essential. It has the power to affect how individuals relate to cancer, it motivates information seeking and promotes preventive behaviours.”

According to the study, cancer coverage has amplified throughout this period in both quantity and positivity, with more cancer-related stories focusing on positive topics such as survival, awareness, fundraising and treatment. In fact, the researchers found that only half as many of the cancer stories in 2008 newspapers centred on death and dying when compared to the stories from 1988/1989.

While the increased positivity in cancer coverage can indeed promote attitudes in the public towards treatment, survival and preventive behaviours, Henry cautions against going too far in the optimistic direction. Overly optimistic portrayals of cancer could have the negative effect of causing the public to be too focused on certain aspects of the disease, thus preventing them from fully understanding the complexities of issues related to cancer.

Good news! Hope makes headlines [McGill University]

A new, one-of-a-kind, study — by researchers at the University of New Brunswick — suggests that war has distinct negative effects on youths from military families.

The study, lead by University of New Brunswick researcher Deborah Harrison, delves into the minds of adolescents attending Oromocto High School. The small town of Oromocto, N.B. was chosen for its close proximity to the Canadian Forces Base of Gagetown—which is one of the largest military training facilities in Canada.

Dr. Harrison and her team discovered that students from military families were not only more susceptible physiological stress, but were also more inclined to take on the emotional burden that the remaining parent was feeling.

“We found that family life was almost always negatively affected by an injured parent’s symptoms of anger and depression,” said Dr. Harrison. Students also “reported feeling very isolated,” with the results showing that “adolescent girls in particular . . . → Read More: Think of the children: Unrealized repercussions on adolescents of military families]]>

A new, one-of-a-kind, study — by researchers at the University of New Brunswick — suggests that war has distinct negative effects on youths from military families.

The study, lead by University of New Brunswick researcher Deborah Harrison, delves into the minds of adolescents attending Oromocto High School. The small town of Oromocto, N.B. was chosen for its close proximity to the Canadian Forces Base of Gagetown—which is one of the largest military training facilities in Canada.

Dr. Harrison and her team discovered that students from military families were not only more susceptible physiological stress, but were also more inclined to take on the emotional burden that the remaining parent was feeling.

“We found that family life was almost always negatively affected by an injured parent’s symptoms of anger and depression,” said Dr. Harrison. Students also “reported feeling very isolated,” with the results showing that “adolescent girls in particular assumed a large share of the family’s emotional burden during long deployments.”

A two-day symposium is taking place in Oromocto to further discuss the results of the study. Oromocto High School already offers some support programs for youth with family members deployed, and, upon hearing the final results and recommendations of the study, look forward to developing more.

UNB researcher finds teens from military families face unique stressors during deployments [University of New Brunswick]

The effects of this month’s devastating earthquakes in Japan are being felt along the British Columbian coastline, according to researchers from Simon Fraser University.

After testing seaweed and rainwater samples, the researchers have picked up on higher than usual levels of the radioisotope iodine-131. The increased levels are likely the result of radioactivity stemming from damage to the Fukushima Dai-Ichi nuclear reactor in Japan—which has been suffering from cooling system failure since a 9.0 magnitude earthquake and tsunami struck Japan in March.

However, despite the increased radiation levels reaching Canada, SFU nuclear scientist Kris Starosta stresses that the public is not in immediate danger or risk.

“As of now, the levels we’re seeing are not harmful to humans. We’re basing this on Japanese studies following the Chernobyl incident in 1986 where levels of iodine-131 were four times higher than what we’ve detected in our rainwater so far,” Starosta . . . → Read More: SFU Researchers Investigate Radiation on B.C. Shores]]>  

The effects of this month’s devastating earthquakes in Japan are being felt along the British Columbian coastline, according to researchers from Simon Fraser University.

After testing seaweed and rainwater samples, the researchers have picked up on higher than usual levels of the radioisotope iodine-131. The increased levels are likely the result of radioactivity stemming from damage to the Fukushima Dai-Ichi nuclear reactor in Japan—which has been suffering from cooling system failure since a 9.0 magnitude earthquake and tsunami struck Japan in March.

However, despite the increased radiation levels reaching Canada, SFU nuclear scientist Kris Starosta stresses that the public is not in immediate danger or risk.

“As of now, the levels we’re seeing are not harmful to humans. We’re basing this on Japanese studies following the Chernobyl incident in 1986 where levels of iodine-131 were four times higher than what we’ve detected in our rainwater so far,” Starosta explains. “Studies of nuclear incidents and exposures are used to define radiation levels at which the increase in cancer risk is statistically significant. When compared to the information we have today, we have not reached levels of elevated risk.”

Radiation from Japan reaches B.C. shores [Simon Fraser University]

Dr. Mulu Geletu (Credit: Queen's University)

The Manitoba Métis Federation and the Louis Riel Institute have donated $100,000 to Brandon University. The money—which will be matched by the Manitoba Scholarship & Bursary Initiative—will go towards awards distributed by the Louis Riel Scholarships & Bursaries Endowment.

The Louis Riel Scholarships & Bursaries Endowment supports scholarships and bursaries for Manitoban students of Métis status.

Manitoba Métis Federation’s Louis Riel Institute Donates Funds for Scholarships & Bursaries [Brandon University]

In a world where most of us are far more likely be playing Angry Birds in our spare time than reading a good book, it is no wonder than literacy skills are being threatened. With this in mind, Simon Fraser University education professor emerita Selma Wassermann is investigating ways to supplement traditional teaching methods with modern technologies as a way to bolster literacy levels among elementary and secondary school students.

Wassermann developed a new app for the iPad, called the My Word! Reader, as a resource for students struggling with reading to learn and improve their reading skills at their own pace.

“In my dream world, I would hope the high-tech tools can be used as supplementary resources that complement what a teacher does, thus freeing the teacher to do much, much more with individual kids and with the curriculum,” says Wassermann.

The app strives to assist users . . . → Read More: Oh My Word! SFU Professor uses Innovate Apps to Promote Literacy]]>

In a world where most of us are far more likely be playing Angry Birds in our spare time than reading a good book, it is no wonder than literacy skills are being threatened. With this in mind, Simon Fraser University education professor emerita Selma Wassermann is investigating ways to supplement traditional teaching methods with modern technologies as a way to bolster literacy levels among elementary and secondary school students.

Wassermann developed a new app for the iPad, called the My Word! Reader, as a resource for students struggling with reading to learn and improve their reading skills at their own pace.

“In my dream world, I would hope the high-tech tools can be used as supplementary resources that complement what a teacher does, thus freeing the teacher to do much, much more with individual kids and with the curriculum,” says Wassermann.

The app strives to assist users by exposing them to stories with customized mature-level content using reader-friendly language that is accessible to students. By reading these specialized stories, students will be able to improve their literacy skills and improve reading comprehension by simultaneously improving the ability to decode words, build sight vocabulary and learn phonetics.

“There is nothing that beats an excellent teacher working one-on-one with a student needing special help. If we could have one expert teacher for every kid ‘in trouble’ academically, that would be my preference,” Wassermann says. “However, that is a pie-in-the-sky dream that cannot be realized in the practical world of the classroom.

The app is available for purchase in the Apple iTunes Store; each story in the My Word! Reader series can be purchased as a separate app for $4.99.

iPad app makes learning to read fun for kids [Simon Fraser University]

Designer Sabrina Breitenmoser (right). (Photo Credit: University of the Fraser Valley)

University of the Fraser Valley fashion student Sabrina Breitenmoser designed herself a spot in Montréal Fashion Week—and came away as one of Canada’s top five Breakthrough Designers.

Breitenmoser competed among 25 finalists in Canada’s Breakthrough Designers competition hosted by textile company Télio. After completing the challenge to create a design with the theme of ‘The Great Canadian North’ for the market of a high-end retail company, Breitenmoser was named a top five finalist and won a $1000 scholarship.

“To have one of our students be a finalist and win a scholarship speaks to the talent of our students as well the quality of education provided by UFV’s fashion design department,” said UFV’s Fashion Design department head Deanna Devitt. “The Télio competition provides students the opportunity to use their creative and technical design skills. . . . → Read More: Student Special: UFV Fashionista Breaks Out in Montréal Competition]]>

Designer Sabrina Breitenmoser (right). (Photo Credit: University of the Fraser Valley)

University of the Fraser Valley fashion student Sabrina Breitenmoser designed herself a spot in Montréal Fashion Week—and came away as one of Canada’s top five Breakthrough Designers.

Breitenmoser competed among 25 finalists in Canada’s Breakthrough Designers competition hosted by textile company Télio. After completing the challenge to create a design with the theme of ‘The Great Canadian North’ for the market of a high-end retail company, Breitenmoser was named a top five finalist and won a $1000 scholarship.

“To have one of our students be a finalist and win a scholarship speaks to the talent of our students as well the quality of education provided by UFV’s fashion design department,” said UFV’s Fashion Design department head Deanna Devitt. “The Télio competition provides students the opportunity to use their creative and technical design skills. There are specific guidelines and a tight time frame that students must follow — so time management is key. And this is the reality of the fashion design business.”

UFV fashion student makes her mark at Montreal Fashion Week [University of the Fraser Valley]

The Harry W. MacLauchlan Scholarships in Entrepreneurial Leadership will now have a bigger pool of University of Prince Edward Island students to fish from.

The three $5000 scholarships, which were previously reserved for business students, are now open for all full-time, 3rd year undergraduate students to apply for.

The catch? Whether you’re a business student or not, you must be able to the demonstrate entrepreneurial initiative, involvement and leadership in the province that Harry W. MacLauchlan embodied in his legacy.

Deadline to apply for the awards is March 31. More details and application criteria are available at the university website here.

Three Harry W. MacLauchlan Scholarships in Entrepreneurial Leadership available [University of Prince Edward Island]

Farmers in southern Ontario may soon have a useful new crop to harvest, if Dave Wolyn and his research have anything to do with it. The University of Guelph plant agriculture professor is using grant funding to investigate the possibilities of producing natural rubber from Russian dandelion plants in the region.

Thanks to a $143,500 grant from the Sand Plains Community Development Fund (SPCDF) as well as additional funding from KoK Technologies Inc., Wolyn hopes to determine if the natural rubber found within Russian dandelion plants is a viable crop for Ontarian farmers. This may be difficult to ascertain, as Wolyn cautions, “You’re taking a wild plant and trying to turn it into a crop. You’re starting from ground zero ― there’s not a hundred years of breeding that has come before me.”

Beginning this spring, the professor will plant dandelion . . . → Read More: Flexible Alternatives: Guelph Professor Looks into Natural Rubber]]>

Professor David Wolyn (Credit: University of Guelph)

Farmers in southern Ontario may soon have a useful new crop to harvest, if Dave Wolyn and his research have anything to do with it. The University of Guelph plant agriculture professor is using grant funding to investigate the possibilities of producing natural rubber from Russian dandelion plants in the region.

Thanks to a $143,500 grant from the Sand Plains Community Development Fund (SPCDF) as well as additional funding from KoK Technologies Inc., Wolyn hopes to determine if the natural rubber found within Russian dandelion plants is a viable crop for Ontarian farmers. This may be difficult to ascertain, as Wolyn cautions, “You’re taking a wild plant and trying to turn it into a crop. You’re starting from ground zero ― there’s not a hundred years of breeding that has come before me.”

Beginning this spring, the professor will plant dandelion seeds from Kazakhstan at the University of Guelph’s Simcoe Research Station. By fall, Wolyn will be able to being harvesting the plants for study.

If successful, producing natural rubber could be a useful new crop for Ontarian farmers. Natural rubber, which is used for airplane and heavy-equipment tires, is primarily grown in crops in Southeast Asia. With growing Chinese and Indian economies spurring demand for natural rubbers, political and ecological distress in Asia threaten traditional sources for the crop—opening the door for Canadians to fill a potential void.

Prof to Use Dandelions to Help Rubber Industry [University of Guelph]

André Drouin (Credit: Saint Paul University)

Forget old Hollywood—Canadian film history is full of flicks worthy of study. As such, the Canada Interactive Fund has awarded a $330,627 grant to Athabasca University to facilitate a new interactive resource studying the history of Canadian filmmaking.

Working along with the National Film Board, Library and Archives Canada, Telefilm Canada, Directors Guild of Canada, Canadian Association of Film & Television Producers, and L’Elephant, the project will allow users to be use a unique interactive film database—including dates, funding sources, producers, directors and actors—to track patterns of film development in Canada since the 1960′s. Ultimately, the goal of the project is to generate a resource for both film students, filmmakers and the public.

Canada Film Online receives $330,627 federal grant [Athabasca University]

Researchers from the University of Alberta have made some cosmic discoveries within neutron stars—a so-called “superfluid” that defies the laws of gravity.

The researchers—led by assistant professor of astrophyics Craig Heinke—used NASA’s Chandra space satellite telescope to look study a 330-year-old neutron star called Cassiopeia A. Neutron stars are the byproduct produced by an exploding star—called a supernova. Through this research, Heinke found that the neutron star’s core contained an odd, frictionless liquid. “If you could put some of this superfluid in a jar it would flow up the walls of the container and over the edge,” said Heinke.

Further details of Heinke and his team’s research is published in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society.

‘Weird science’ uncovered inside neutron star [University of . . . → Read More: Supernova Superfluid]]>

A neutron star. (Credit: University of Alberta)

Researchers from the University of Alberta have made some cosmic discoveries within neutron stars—a so-called “superfluid” that defies the laws of gravity.

The researchers—led by assistant professor of astrophyics Craig Heinke—used NASA’s Chandra space satellite telescope to look study a 330-year-old neutron star called Cassiopeia A. Neutron stars are the byproduct produced by an exploding star—called a supernova. Through this research, Heinke found that the neutron star’s core contained an odd, frictionless liquid. “If you could put some of this superfluid in a jar it would flow up the walls of the container and over the edge,” said Heinke.

Further details of Heinke and his team’s research is published in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society.

‘Weird science’ uncovered inside neutron star [University of Alberta]

Mark Illing's Tangential Obsfuscation (Credit: Emily Carr University)

The upcoming “Art in Transit” pilot program will showcase the work of 18 talented visual artists affiliated with Emily Carr University on the more than 700 interior advertising areas on the city’s buses and SkyTrain public transportation systems. Featured artists include Mark Illing, Samantha Boschmann and Taylor Sutthery—biographies and statments from all of the featured artists can be found on the Emily Carr website.

The 31 selected pieces were chosen based on artistic excellence an suitability for transit by . . . → Read More: Travelling with Style: Emily Carr University Student Art to Adorn Vancouver Transit]]> As a daily partaker in the toils of public transit, I can attest that transit—while often an excellent economical and environmental choice—isn’t always “pretty.” For those in the Metro Vancouver area, however, taking the bus could be more visually interesting in the future—thanks to a new collaboration between the TransLink bus system and the Emily Carr University of Art + Design.

Mark Illing's Tangential Obsfuscation (Credit: Emily Carr University)

The upcoming “Art in Transit” pilot program will showcase the work of 18 talented visual artists affiliated with Emily Carr University on the more than 700 interior advertising areas on the city’s buses and SkyTrain public transportation systems. Featured artists include Mark Illing, Samantha Boschmann and Taylor Sutthery—biographies and statments from all of the featured artists can be found on the Emily Carr website.

The 31 selected pieces were chosen based on artistic excellence an suitability for transit by a panel of university and TransLink judges and may be displayed for up to two years. The style of each artist’s contributions vary greatly to present a diverse array of local artistic talent.

TransLink and Emily Carr Present Art on Transit | A Collaborative Public Art Project [Emily Carr University of Art + Design]

Researchers from the University of Alberta are capitalizing on one of the hottest new neuroscientific research trends—combinations of optical and genetic techniques called “Optogenetics”—in an attempt to help improve the treatment given to premature infants.

Led by neuroscientist Greg Funk, who received a five-year, $778,000 research grant from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, University of Alberta researchers use both optical and genetic research methods to study how the brain controls breathing. Specifically, Funk and his team will apply optogenetic research by shining various wavelengths of light on different areas of the brain in order to study the rhythms responsible for breathing.

Working with additional researchers Alex Gourine from University College London and Sergey Kasparov from the University of Bristol, the University of Alberta team will use their optogenetic techniques to investigate the role of . . . → Read More: Shine a Light on Research: Using Optogenetics to Help Premature Babies Breathe Easier]]>

Greg Funk, Jennifer Zwicker, Tuca Alvares and Vishaal Rajani (Credit: University of Alberta)

Researchers from the University of Alberta are capitalizing on one of the hottest new neuroscientific research trends—combinations of optical and genetic techniques called “Optogenetics”—in an attempt to help improve the treatment given to premature infants.

Led by neuroscientist Greg Funk, who received a five-year, $778,000 research grant from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, University of Alberta researchers use both optical and genetic research methods to study how the brain controls breathing. Specifically, Funk and his team will apply optogenetic research by shining various wavelengths of light on different areas of the brain in order to study the rhythms responsible for breathing.

Working with additional researchers Alex Gourine from University College London and Sergey Kasparov from the University of Bristol, the University of Alberta team will use their optogenetic techniques to investigate the role of a brain cell called astrocytes. Astrocytes are significant because they can detect carbon dioxide levels that signal the brain to increase breathing; in this way, researchers hope to apply optogenetics to astrocytes to determine what causes increased rates of breathing in low-oxygen situations —such as with premature babies.

Latest research craze could help premature babies [University of Alberta]

The scholarship fund, supported by endowments totaling $1.5 million, will focus on assisting students in engineering, geoscience, environmental science, trades and technology. In addition, the Hebron Project will support math, science and engineering research at Memorial University.

Hebron establishes diversity scholarships, research grants at Memorial University [Memorial University]

As my grandmother would say, traditions are often here for a reason—long-established conventions often stick around because they’re good for. Attesting to grandma’s teachings, the inaugural portion of the ten-year First Nations Food, Nutrition, and Environmental Study (FNFNES) in British Columbia has been released, showing that eating traditional foods reduces obesity-related health risks in First Nations communities. This first study involved 21 B.C. First Nations communities and marks the beginning of a series of FNFNES studies to be conducted in Manitoba and Ontario in addition to British Columbia.

The study—led by the University of Northern British Columbia’s Dr. Laurie Chan—indicates the importance of access to traditional food sources such as fish, moose and berries for the nutritional health of First Nations communities. According to Chan, “many of the participants in the study reported limitations to accessing traditional foods, including governmental restrictions, forestry, hydro . . . → Read More: Nutritious Traditions: UNBC Study of First Nations Diet and Environmental Health]]>

Dr. Laurie Chan (Credit: UNBC)

As my grandmother would say, traditions are often here for a reason—long-established conventions often stick around because they’re good for. Attesting to grandma’s teachings, the inaugural portion of the ten-year First Nations Food, Nutrition, and Environmental Study (FNFNES) in British Columbia has been released, showing that eating traditional foods reduces obesity-related health risks in First Nations communities. This first study involved 21 B.C. First Nations communities and marks the beginning of a series of FNFNES studies to be conducted in Manitoba and Ontario in addition to British Columbia.

The study—led by the University of Northern British Columbia’s Dr. Laurie Chan—indicates the importance of access to traditional food sources such as fish, moose and berries for the nutritional health of First Nations communities. According to Chan, “many of the participants in the study reported limitations to accessing traditional foods, including governmental restrictions, forestry, hydro installations, and mining. Nearly seventy-five percent of participants also identified global warming as being a hindering factor.”

UNBC: BC Results of Study into First Nations Dietary and Environmental Health Released [University of Northern British Columbia]

Extra! Extra! Breaking news: the new Master of Journalism program offered jointly from the University of King’s College and Dalhousie University has now been officially approved by the Maritime Provinces Higher Education Commission (MPHEC).

This MPHEC approval officially completes the developmental stage of this 10-month program, which can now begin with its first cohort of graduate students in June.

The MJ degree involves a 10-month program specializing in multimedia digital reporting, investigative and entrepreneurial journalism. Students—who generally will have either prior practical experience or a Bachelor’s degree in journalism—are able to choose between two streams: investigative reporting and new ventures.

Want to give the program a go? Applications will be accepted until March 15.

King’s Master of Journalism Approved by MPHEC [University of King's College]

When people think about business, they often think about profit, sales and the bottom dollar. For 67 business students at Royal Roads University participating in the annual Venture Challenge, this business savvy was put to good use, raising $28,930 for local charities.

The Venture Challenge involved Bachelor of Commerce students breaking into teams with an $1 per student investment as start-up capital. Each team then applied their investments to a small business idea for five weeks. Proceeds from the students’ challenge businesses went to charities of their choice—including the B.C. Children’s Hospital, the David Foster Foundation, The Mustard Seed Food Bank, KidSport, Make a Wish Foundation, The Heart and Stroke Foundation, the Canadian Hero Fund, The Queen Alexandria Foundation for Children, The Vancouver Island Marmot Recovery Foundation, and Big Brothers and Sisters of Victoria. The most successful small challenge money-makers included a drop-in Yogathon and a choir concert . . . → Read More: Student Special: Royal Roads Students Get More Bang for Their Charitable Bucks]]>

When people think about business, they often think about profit, sales and the bottom dollar. For 67 business students at Royal Roads University participating in the annual Venture Challenge, this business savvy was put to good use, raising $28,930 for local charities.

The Venture Challenge involved Bachelor of Commerce students breaking into teams with an $1 per student investment as start-up capital. Each team then applied their investments to a small business idea for five weeks. Proceeds from the students’ challenge businesses went to charities of their choice—including the B.C. Children’s Hospital, the David Foster Foundation, The Mustard Seed Food Bank, KidSport, Make a Wish Foundation, The Heart and Stroke Foundation, the Canadian Hero Fund, The Queen Alexandria Foundation for Children, The Vancouver Island Marmot Recovery Foundation, and Big Brothers and Sisters of Victoria. The most successful small challenge money-makers included a drop-in Yogathon and a choir concert to raise funds.

Entrepreneurial management professor Geoff Archer said of the Venture Challenge program, “This opportunity to ‘do’ is a vital component of a theory of adult learning which describes mature learners best integrating new knowledge through a cycle of thinking, planning, doing, and reflecting. Beyond that, it’s fun, and it benefits a bunch of great causes that are meaningful to the students who chose to support them.”

Royal Roads Students turn $67 into almost $30,000 For Local Charities [Royal Roads University]

Vicki Schwean (Credit: University of Western Ontario)

Colleen Greer poses with her trophy. (Credit: Queen's University)

While some students spend go on Mexican vacations, Queen’s University graduate student Colleen Greer spent time in the Gulf of Mexico last year for very different reasons. Greer has been honoured by Fisheries and Oceans Canada for her efforts helping during the response to 2010′s accidental oil spill crisis in the Gulf of Mexico.

Greer, a master’s student currently studying the impact of oil on herring embryos, rushed to attend to the crisis shortly after the initial spill. She collected water samples from the Deepwater Horizon to help track the deep sub-surface oil plume.

“Every once in a while you would go through some oil and the water would turn dark brown. It was shocking because you think of the Gulf of Mexico being so pristine,” said Greer.

. . . → Read More: Student Special: Queen’s University’s Colleen Greer Cleans Up After Oil Spill]]>

Colleen Greer poses with her trophy. (Credit: Queen's University)

While some students spend go on Mexican vacations, Queen’s University graduate student Colleen Greer spent time in the Gulf of Mexico last year for very different reasons. Greer has been honoured by Fisheries and Oceans Canada for her efforts helping during the response to 2010′s accidental oil spill crisis in the Gulf of Mexico.

Greer, a master’s student currently studying the impact of oil on herring embryos, rushed to attend to the crisis shortly after the initial spill. She collected water samples from the Deepwater Horizon to help track the deep sub-surface oil plume.

“Every once in a while you would go through some oil and the water would turn dark brown. It was shocking because you think of the Gulf of Mexico being so pristine,” said Greer.

Student honoured for work with Gulf of Mexico oil spill response team [Queen's University]

Athabasca University will soon be offering the credential of a Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Architecture.

Recently approved by the Alberta Government, the program will be available through the RAIC Centre for Architecture. Initial professional practice courses will be offered starting as early as this spring.

“We are very pleased to see this program offered through Athabasca University. It will soon provide students across Canada with a path into the profession of architecture based on a unique work-study program that includes employment experience in the office of an Architect,” said Stuart Howard, FRAIC President, Architecture Canada.

Graduate Diploma in Architecture launched [Athabasca University]

Dr. Catherine Mateer. (Credit: University of Victoria)

Shirley Douglas receives her honorary degree. . . . → Read More: Recognizing Research: Catherine Mateer, Shirley Douglas, Geneviève Cadieux]]>

Geneviève Cadieux's public art piece "Lierre sur Pierre." (Credit: Concordia University)

• Concordia University professor Geneviève Cadieux has been awarded the 2011 Governor General’s Award in Visual and Media Arts for her career achievements in the visual arts. Cadieux’s work focuses on the transformation of images through the recording and production process. [Concordia University]

Dr. Catherine Mateer. (Credit: University of Victoria)

• The BC Psychological Association has created a new award to recognize contributions to the advancement of psychology using the scientist-practitioner model of research. The inaugural recipient of this award is also its namesake—Dr. Catherine Mateer will be the first person awarded the Catherine Mateer Scientist-Practitioner Award in recognition of her work in cognitive rehabilitation for survivors of head trauma. Dr. Mateer currently serves as Associate Vice-President Academic Planning and Professor of Psychology at the University of Victoria.  [University of Victoria]

Shirley Douglas receives her honorary degree. (Credit: University of Regina)

• Shirley Douglas has been awarded an honorary degree from the University of Regina in recognition for her lifetime of work as an actress and activist. Douglas, the daughter of politician Tommy Douglas, was awarded an honorary Doctor of Fine Arts degree on February 24, 2011.
• “Shirley Douglas has not simply inherited her father Tommy Douglas’ legacy of public service, but has built upon it in her own way to become one of Canada’s foremost actors, as well as a passionate advocate for our publicly funded health care system,” said Dr. Vianne Timmons, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Regina. “She has long understood that her reputation as an actor provides a powerful opportunity for her to help bring about social change, and by joining the roles of actor and activist, throughout her career she has embodied the motto of the University of Regina – ‘As One Who Serves.’” [University of Regina]

coach of the Nova Scotia men’s gymnastics team at the Canada Games held in Halifax from February 11-27, 2011. Two of Kikuchi’s athletes earned medals at the games. [Dalhousie . . . → Read More: Alumni Updates: Concordia Alumni in Arcade Fire Burn up Music Scene]]>

Arcade Fire burning up the music industry: Montreal indie band Arcade Fire—which counts three Concordia University graduates as members—have made waves in the music scene with recent high-profile award wins including an Album of the Year Grammy award and a Best International Album BRIT award. Alumni from the band include Régine Chassagne (BA Communication Studies ’98), Richard Reed Parry (BFA Electroacoustic Studies ’03) and Sarah Neufeld (BFA Electroacoustic Studies ’03). [Concordia University]

• Dalhousie University alumnus and former Olympic gymnast David Kikuchi recently shared his experience as the head
  

  Dalhousie Alum David Kikuchi (Credit: Dalhousie University)

  coach of the Nova Scotia men’s gymnastics team at the Canada Games held in Halifax from February 11-27, 2011. Two of Kikuchi’s athletes earned medals at the games. [Dalhousie University]

Good news for Canadian business from the University of Calgary’s School of Public Policy. The latest study by Dr. Jack Mintz and Dr. Duanjie Chen reveals Canada is now the most competitive country for capital investment tax among the seven largest developed countries represented by the G-7 alliance — a big improvement from 2005, when Canada was deemed the least competitive.

Capital investment tax is a valuable indicator of future investment and economic growth. Since global wage rates are gradually equalizing, corporate tax rates will become increasingly important in attracting business. Canadian prospects are good, especially in light of further planned reductions in corporate taxes by 2013. “The combination of resource wealth, a favourable tax regime and our proximity to the U.S. is very positive,” said Mintz.

Canada should not rest on its laurels, however. In the study’s analysis of . . . → Read More: Cutting Back To Climb Ahead: Study Reveals Canada Most Tax-Competitive G-7 Country]]>

Study co-author Dr. Jack Mintz (Credit: University of Calgary)

Good news for Canadian business from the University of Calgary’s School of Public Policy. The latest study by Dr. Jack Mintz and Dr. Duanjie Chen reveals Canada is now the most competitive country for capital investment tax among the seven largest developed countries represented by the G-7 alliance — a big improvement from 2005, when Canada was deemed the least competitive.

Capital investment tax is a valuable indicator of future investment and economic growth. Since global wage rates are gradually equalizing, corporate tax rates will become increasingly important in attracting business. Canadian prospects are good, especially in light of further planned reductions in corporate taxes by 2013. “The combination of resource wealth, a favourable tax regime and our proximity to the U.S. is very positive,” said Mintz.

Canada should not rest on its laurels, however. In the study’s analysis of the tax regimes of 83 developed and developing countries, Canada still ranked middle. And countries like Greece, Japan and the United Kingdom are introducing measures to increase their tax competitiveness despite the economic downturn. Mintz suggests Canada would do well to follow suit: “Corporate taxes should still be reduced further, and to scrap planned corporate taxes reductions would be a job killer — plain and simple.”

Further threats to Canadian competitiveness include troubled neighbours. While unfavourable corporate tax rates in the United States may drive some business north of the border, the damage to the U.S. economy means Canada may suffer. Political opposition to corporate tax cuts may also discourage potential investors. “We need those cuts to take Canada to the… competitive average, and businesses have already factored in those cuts,” Mintz added.

The study also highlights a persistent tax bias against the services industry. Unlike most developed countries, Canada restricts preferential tax treatment to manufacturing and processing activities.

Canada poised to become northern tiger [University of Calgary]

Adam Sarty (Photo Credit: Saint Mary's University)

Kieran Egan (Photo Credit: Simon Fraser University)

YouTube has exposed the world to the light-hearted likes of Justin Bieber, the Evolution of Dance and the “leave Britney alone” guy—but could this seemingly blithe medium carry hidden dangers for Canada’s youth? In an era of omnipresent online video where kids can—quite literally—carry the Internet with them in their pockets, a University of Guelph study purports that YouTube videos depicting self-harm can negatively impact some youth by making destructive behaviors seem normal.

Professor Stephen Lewis (Credit: Universit of Guelph)

The researchers, led by University of Guelph psychology professor Stephen Lewis, studied the top 50 YouTube videos showing a person engaging in an act of self-harm. These videos–which had a combined total of over two million views—contained both live acts as well as graphic photographs and text. The most common form of self-harm depicted was cutting.

According to Lewis, between 14 to 24 per cent of youth . . . → Read More: YouTube Youth: Guelph Study Finds Danger in Catching it on Video]]>

YouTube has exposed the world to the light-hearted likes of Justin Bieber, the Evolution of Dance and the “leave Britney alone” guy—but could this seemingly blithe medium carry hidden dangers for Canada’s youth? In an era of omnipresent online video where kids can—quite literally—carry the Internet with them in their pockets, a University of Guelph study purports that YouTube videos depicting self-harm can negatively impact some youth by making destructive behaviors seem normal.

Professor Stephen Lewis (Credit: Universit of Guelph)

The researchers, led by University of Guelph psychology professor Stephen Lewis, studied the top 50 YouTube videos showing a person engaging in an act of self-harm. These videos–which had a combined total of over two million views—contained both live acts as well as graphic photographs and text. The most common form of self-harm depicted was cutting.

According to Lewis, between 14 to 24 per cent of youth and already tried self-harm at least once: for vulnerable youth who may be prone to self-injury, the free and open viewing of these acts in the YouTube forum may trigger dangerous behaviors by making self-harm seem normal or acceptable because others are openly engaging in them.

“These videos are worrisome because the nature of the images and tone may elicit an urge in those already at risk of self-injury to harm themselves, and may send the message that self-injury is acceptable or that there is little point in seeking help,” said Lewis.

By exposing and highlighting these vulnerabilities, Lewis’s research promotes further study to help youth deal with urges and prompts to participate in self-harm. However, as the actual act of self-injury often takes place in private, it might be a difficult problem to treat.

Self-Injury YouTube Videos May Encourage Behaviour Among Teens, Study Finds [University of Guelph]

More than seventy years after her mysterious disappearance while flying over the Pacific Ocean, researchers from Simon Fraser University are using modern DNA and forensic testing technologies to try to put Amelia Earhart to rest.

Amelia Earhart was one of the first and most famous female pilots after rising to fame for her aviation skills in the 1920’s. Earhart and her navigator disappeared in 1937 while attempting to complete a circumnavigational flight around the globe. Since her disappearance, there has been much speculation about her whereabouts.

Led by forensic scientist Dongya Yang, SFU scientists will analyze the saliva Earhart used to seal a series of four letters to collect samples of Earhart’s genetic markers, DNA. If the researchers are able to ascertain a reliable sample of her DNA, they will be able to create a genetic profile for the . . . → Read More: Saliva Solutions: SFU Researchers Attempt to Use DNA to Determine What Happened to Amelia Earhart]]>

Dr. Dongya Yang (SFU Public Affairs and Media Relations)

More than seventy years after her mysterious disappearance while flying over the Pacific Ocean, researchers from Simon Fraser University are using modern DNA and forensic testing technologies to try to put Amelia Earhart to rest.

Amelia Earhart was one of the first and most famous female pilots after rising to fame for her aviation skills in the 1920’s. Earhart and her navigator disappeared in 1937 while attempting to complete a circumnavigational flight around the globe. Since her disappearance, there has been much speculation about her whereabouts.

Led by forensic scientist Dongya Yang, SFU scientists will analyze the saliva Earhart used to seal a series of four letters to collect samples of Earhart’s genetic markers, DNA. If the researchers are able to ascertain a reliable sample of her DNA, they will be able to create a genetic profile for the fallen pilot. Researchers will then be able to use this genetic profile to test samples of remains that some believe are Earhart’s. If there is a match, Earhart may finally be able to be put to rest.

Specifically, the genetic profile could be compared with the DNA in bone fragments found in the South Pacific that some believe may belong to Earhart.

Amelia Earhart – DNA research targets mystery [Simon Fraser University]

Two lucky University of Regina freshmen will be breathing a little easier when it comes time to pay tuition, thanks to the newly bequested Ross John Kirk Entrance Bursary.

Kirk, and traveler and salesman, provided the university with a total fund of over $200,000 to create the award in his name. The bursary will be awarded to two full-time first-year students each year, and will be based on a combination of academic standing and financial need.

President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Vianne Timmons expressed appreciation for the gift, saying that “Mr. Kirk’s generous gift is a means of helping in this regard by providing financial assistance that is so important to student success over the long term. I would like to thank Mr. Kirk for this gift, and for the confidence he has shown in our students – our future leaders.”

New entrance bursary creates opportunity for undergraduate students . . . → Read More: Scholarship Alert: Ross John Kirk Entrance Bursary]]>

Two lucky University of Regina freshmen will be breathing a little easier when it comes time to pay tuition, thanks to the newly bequested Ross John Kirk Entrance Bursary.

Kirk, and traveler and salesman, provided the university with a total fund of over $200,000 to create the award in his name. The bursary will be awarded to two full-time first-year students each year, and will be based on a combination of academic standing and financial need.

President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Vianne Timmons expressed appreciation for the gift, saying that “Mr. Kirk’s generous gift is a means of helping in this regard by providing financial assistance that is so important to student success over the long term. I would like to thank Mr. Kirk for this gift, and for the confidence he has shown in our students – our future leaders.”

New entrance bursary creates opportunity for undergraduate students at the University of Regina [University of Regina]

Looking for more information on scholarships and bursaries? Check out the Canadian Scholarship section of Canada’s Higher Education and Career Guide here.

While most students have a lot to balance with papers and exams, Tara Teng is also balancing a tiara.

Teng, a third-year education student at Trinity Western University from Langley, British Columbia, has been crowned Miss. Canada 2011. Prior to her national win, Teng also won the title of Miss BC.

“I am so excited for this new opportunity ahead of me. Not only do I have the honour and privilege of representing my beautiful home of Canada to the world, I now have a larger platform to speak from. My goal as Miss Canada is unchanging from my mission as Miss British Columbia.” Said Teng.

In addition to her crowns and course work, Teng has also been involved in multiple social causes. Teng—who is the president of the Trinity Western University International Social Justice Club—has founded Freedom Week. Freedom Week will occur in . . . → Read More: Student Special: Tara Teng Wins Miss Canada 2011]]>

Credit: Trinity Western University

While most students have a lot to balance with papers and exams, Tara Teng is also balancing a tiara.

Teng, a third-year education student at Trinity Western University from Langley, British Columbia, has been crowned Miss. Canada 2011. Prior to her national win, Teng also won the title of Miss BC.

“I am so excited for this new opportunity ahead of me. Not only do I have the honour and privilege of representing my beautiful home of Canada to the world, I now have a larger platform to speak from. My goal as Miss Canada is unchanging from my mission as Miss British Columbia.” Said Teng.

In addition to her crowns and course work, Teng has also been involved in multiple social causes. Teng—who is the president of the Trinity Western University International Social Justice Club—has founded Freedom Week. Freedom Week will occur in the Vancouver and Fraser Valley area from March 6 to 13 for the purpose of raising awareness of modern-day slavery.

Tara Teng wins Miss Canada 2011 [Trinity Western University]

Chris MacDonald is one of the 100 most influential people in business ethics. (Credit: Saint Mary's University)

Top Teacher Fred Phillips (Credit: University of Saskatchewan)

New research from the CIBC Centre in Human Capital and Productivity at the University of Western Ontario outlines these findings in a policy brief authored by economists Lance Lochner (University of Western Ontario professor, Canada Research Chair in Human Capital and Productivity and CIBC Chair in Human Capital and Productivity), Philippe Belley (economics professor at Kansas State University) and Marc Frenette (Senior Research Associate at the Social Research and Demonstration Corporation).

The findings show some significant differences in post-secondary . . . → Read More: Mind the Gap: Differences in the Impact of Parental Income on Post-Secondary Attendance in Canada and the U.S.]]> Tuitions costs, living expenses, books and student fees are just some of the factors to consider when planning your post-secondary education. Could your parent’s income be another factor in this equation? If you are a youth in the United States, how much your parents earn may determine whether or not you choose a post-secondary education. In Canada however, researchers suggest that parental income does not significantly influence post-secondary attendance rates.

New research from the CIBC Centre in Human Capital and Productivity at the University of Western Ontario outlines these findings in a policy brief authored by economists Lance Lochner (University of Western Ontario professor, Canada Research Chair in Human Capital and Productivity and CIBC Chair in Human Capital and Productivity), Philippe Belley (economics professor at Kansas State University) and Marc Frenette (Senior Research Associate at the Social Research and Demonstration Corporation).

The findings show some significant differences in post-secondary attendance rates in the U.S. as compared to Canada. The number of American youth enrolled in post-secondary education is 20 percentage points higher among families reporting a total annual income of more than $50,000 than the youth in the bottom quartile of the income range. In Canada—at the same income levels—this difference is only eight percentage points.

So why is there such a gap between the U.S. and Canada when it comes to post-secondary attendance among different income level families?

The U.S. gives more financial aid to families in the low-income range, but still expects families whose annual income is between $20-25,000 to contribute to their child’s post-secondary education. As the family income rises from $20,000 to $50,000, the amount of financial aid reduces as the total income increases.

Further, Lochner suggests other U.S.-specific factors that could influence post-secondary attendance. Firstly, states with high-tuition rates receive below average financial aid offers. Moreover, financial aid is often institution-specific in the U.S.—making it difficult for families to determine the actual costs of tuition and aid and thus discourage them from considering college. Lastly, the U.S. media’s attention to the high costs of elite private institutions may deter low-income families from considering post-secondary education as an option.

In contrast, Canada gives a similar amount of aid throughout the $20-$50,000 annual income range as well as more financial aid to middle-income families and less to low-income families. Therefore, post-secondary attendance is higher among Canadian youth from low-income families and lower for the U.S.

To learn more, view the full four-page brief: http://economics.uwo.ca/centres/cibc/policybriefs/policybrief1.pdf

Post-secondary attendance, parental income and financial aid: Canada vs. the U.S. [University of Western Ontario]

Binge eating disorder is a mental condition that occurs when you cannot control what—or how much—you eat in a short period of time.  Victims of the disorder often feel depressed and guilty as they eat, but are unable to stop.

PhD candidate in clinical psychology at the University of Calgary Phil Masson has developed a self-help manual that aims “to help people stop binge eating by learning healthy ways to cope with stressful situations, and giving them new strategies for controlling their emotions that don’t include food.” While self-help manuals are a common part . . . → Read More: Helping You Help Yourself: University of Calgary Researchers Try Self-Help Manual to Treat Binge Eating]]> When the word “eating disorder” is brought up, anorexia or bulimia often spring to mind. However binge eating, although a less well-known disorder, is currently affecting many Canadians in a serious way. As such, researchers at the University of Calgary are working on a unique new project that aims to help binge eaters help themselves.

Binge eating disorder is a mental condition that occurs when you cannot control what—or how much—you eat in a short period of time.  Victims of the disorder often feel depressed and guilty as they eat, but are unable to stop.

PhD candidate in clinical psychology at the University of Calgary Phil Masson has developed a self-help manual that aims “to help people stop binge eating by learning healthy ways to cope with stressful situations, and giving them new strategies for controlling their emotions that don’t include food.” While self-help manuals are a common part of everyday society, the use of a self-help approach combined with empirical research is relatively unique in the field of psychology. However, if the trial proves useful, it could contribute to validating the possibly integral role of self-help methods in helping to treat mental disorders like binge eating.

A trial of the self-help program was launched during Eating Disorder Awareness Week, February 6-12, and was open to anyone suffering from the disorder. Participants in the free program were asked to work their way through the self-help manual over a 13-week period. During the trial, participants would receive six phone calls from a therapist. The participants were broken into two groups: those that would receive the calls while they worked through the manual, and those who would work through it themselves and then receive calls from the therapist after. By breaking up the participants this way the manual can be tested more conclusively.

Researchers hope that the findings from this study will enable them to prove the usefulness and effectiveness of the manual, with the hopes of getting it published for use by the public.

Researchers explore new self-help therapy for Binge Eating Disorder [University of Calgary]

Fashion is: fill in the blank. Fashion can be anything, and (zero.O.lab)—a collaborative effort with Emily Carr University and design graduate Katherine Soucie—aims to redefine local fashion in Vancouver by providing artists, designers and creative personalities a space to research concepts for waste-free fashion. The designated space of (zero.O.lab) offers an outlet for those interested in investigating the production and consumption behind fashion.

My Sister’s Closet is a Vancouver-area thrift store that is funded by the non-profit organization Battered Women’s Support Society (BWSS). Working with Soucie, My Sister’s Closet has become the area’s first thrift store to have its own in-house design label. Soucie—a MAA Visual Arts candidate, resident artist and designer of (zero.O.lab)—will showcase her designs from February 2011 to January 2012 in order to develop opportunities for research and localized production. Her sustainable designs are made up of items that have . . . → Read More: Dressing Up Eco-Friendly Fashion: Research from Emily Carr Gives the Fashion Industry a Makeover]]>

(Credit: Emily Carr University)

Fashion is: fill in the blank. Fashion can be anything, and (zero.O.lab)—a collaborative effort with Emily Carr University and design graduate Katherine Soucie—aims to redefine local fashion in Vancouver by providing artists, designers and creative personalities a space to research concepts for waste-free fashion. The designated space of (zero.O.lab) offers an outlet for those interested in investigating the production and consumption behind fashion.

My Sister’s Closet is a Vancouver-area thrift store that is funded by the non-profit organization Battered Women’s Support Society (BWSS). Working with Soucie, My Sister’s Closet has become the area’s first thrift store to have its own in-house design label. Soucie—a MAA Visual Arts candidate, resident artist and designer of (zero.O.lab)—will showcase her designs from February 2011 to January 2012 in order to develop opportunities for research and localized production. Her sustainable designs are made up of items that have been discarded, and would otherwise be unsuitable for sale—items that have reworked and recycled in order to create a new outfit for the fashion industry.

(zero.O.lab) is an outlet for the fashion savvy and the artistic-minded individual with the curiosity to dissect the industry. Fashion is evolving with the times and the economy, and with the support of local designers and the practice of sustainability, (zero.O.lab) fashion will continue to be an indulgence for the consumer and now and the eco-friendly.

In the Vancouver area? Soucie’s first (zero.O.lab) series is now at My Sister’s Closet, located at 1092 Seymour & Helmcken Street, Yaletown.

Katherine Soucie Collaborative Research Project [Emily Carr University]

Promotional videos for (zero.O.lab)’s youtube channel can be found here.

Glycobiology Glee: Simon Fraser University‘s David Vocadlo has received a 2011 E.W.R. Steacie Memorial Fellowship from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada for his research in the field of glycobiology. Vocadlo, a professor of chemistry at the university, focuses his current research on treatment f diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. [Simon Fraser University] Other E.W.R. Steacie Memorial Fellowship winners—recognized for their promise in science or engineering while being faculty members at Canadian universities— include Andrea Damascelli, Alexander Litvak, Roberto Morandotti, Ruth Signorell and Boris Worm. [NSERC]

Brian Chen (Credit: McGill University)

Brain Wires: McGill University Neurologist Brian Chen has won a Sloan Research Fellowship for him research in neural circuitry and its effects on mental disorders. The fellowship will provide $50,000 of funding to Chen’s research over two years. [McGill University] Hot Research Rewarded: Carleton . . . → Read More: Recognizing Research: David Vocadlo, Brian Chen, Paul Simms]]>

David Vocadlo (Credit: Simon Fraser University)

Glycobiology Glee: Simon Fraser University‘s David Vocadlo has received a 2011 E.W.R. Steacie Memorial Fellowship from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada for his research in the field of glycobiology. Vocadlo, a professor of chemistry at the university, focuses his current research on treatment f diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. [Simon Fraser University]

• Other E.W.R. Steacie Memorial Fellowship winners—recognized for their promise in science or engineering while being faculty members at Canadian universities— include Andrea Damascelli, Alexander Litvak, Roberto Morandotti, Ruth Signorell and Boris Worm. [NSERC]

• 

  Brian Chen (Credit: McGill University)

  Brain Wires: McGill University Neurologist Brian Chen has won a Sloan Research Fellowship for him research in neural circuitry and its effects on mental disorders. The fellowship will provide $50,000 of funding to Chen’s research over two years. [McGill University]

• Hot Research Rewarded: Carleton University has awarded Professor Paul Simms a Carleton University 2011 Research Achievement Award—along with a $15,000 honorarium—in support of his research into heating systems, such as mine tailings and low-temperature geothermal heat pumps. Simms intends to use the honorarium to further investigate this alternative heating systems such as soil layering. [Carleton University]

Sir Graham Day (Photo Credit: Nick Pearce, Dalhousie University)

Supported by a million-dollar endowment, the Sir Graham Day Scholarships will support undergraduate and graduate students undertaking course work in the areas of family business, transportation or business-government relations within the Faculty of Management.

The donor-funded endowment was set up by philanthropist businessman John Bragg in honour of Sir Day’s contributions to the business community.

Sir Day is a former business professor and chancellor at Dalhousie University.

All in a Day’s work [Dalhousie University]

Want more information on Canadian university scholarships? Check out the scholarship pages on www.canadian-universities.net here.

Thinking of studying environmental science? One of Canada’s premier programs has received a boost of recognition with national accreditation.

Acadia University’s Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science is now a Canadian Environmental Accreditation Commission (CEAC) accredited program—one of only three in the country.

The program, launched in 1995, provides on a mixture of traditional science studies with coursework in policy and law—to produce graduates with a knowledge-base suited to a diverse array of environmental careers.

Acadia’s Vice-President, academic, Dr. Tom Herman, supports the program. “Graduates of Acadia’s environmental science program have gone on to successful careers in industry, public policy, and education,” said Dr. Herman. “We are seeing an increased level of interest in this field from students entering the sciences who see a career path in a field that directly addresses our planet’s sustainability. We believe student interest in this program will continue to grow and Acadia’s . . . → Read More: Program Notes: Acadia’s Bachelor of Environmental Science Gains CEAC Accreditation]]>

Thinking of studying environmental science? One of Canada’s premier programs has received a boost of recognition with national accreditation.

Acadia University’s Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science is now a Canadian Environmental Accreditation Commission (CEAC) accredited program—one of only three in the country.

The program, launched in 1995, provides on a mixture of traditional science studies with coursework in policy and law—to produce graduates with a knowledge-base suited to a diverse array of environmental careers.

Acadia’s Vice-President, academic, Dr. Tom Herman, supports the program. “Graduates of Acadia’s environmental science program have gone on to successful careers in industry, public policy, and education,” said Dr. Herman. “We are seeing an increased level of interest in this field from students entering the sciences who see a career path in a field that directly addresses our planet’s sustainability. We believe student interest in this program will continue to grow and Acadia’s reputation as a centre of research excellence in this area will help attract them to our campus.”

Acadia Environmental Science Program Receives National Accreditation [Acadia University]

Outdoor music festivals are energizing. The sun, the blue sky and the fresh air all feed the energy in the crowd. Soon, everyone is singing along with the band and there are smiles all around. With the music surrounding us, it feels like we have our own personal soundtrack to wrap the moment in. This can be the best of what outdoor festivals have to offer, but what happens when the sound is muffled or the melody is garbled?

Ben Gaum asked himself this question, which is what led him to his research thesis, “Sound Created Form.” The thesis evaluated the acoustics of temporary outdoor music performance facilities. Gaum, a 2010 graduate of Ryerson’s Master of Architecture program, he is also a musician; his passion for music spawned an interest in understanding the acoustic levels in outdoor music festival venues—the . . . → Read More: Outdoor Music Festivals: Clear Acoustics]]>

Ramani Ramakrishnan and Ben Guam. (Photo Credit: Ryerson University)

Outdoor music festivals are energizing. The sun, the blue sky and the fresh air all feed the energy in the crowd. Soon, everyone is singing along with the band and there are smiles all around. With the music surrounding us, it feels like we have our own personal soundtrack to wrap the moment in. This can be the best of what outdoor festivals have to offer, but what happens when the sound is muffled or the melody is garbled?

Ben Gaum asked himself this question, which is what led him to his research thesis, “Sound Created Form.” The thesis evaluated the acoustics of temporary outdoor music performance facilities. Gaum, a 2010 graduate of Ryerson’s Master of Architecture program, he is also a musician; his passion for music spawned an interest in understanding the acoustic levels in outdoor music festival venues—the inspiration for his research thesis, “Sound Created Form.” Gaum’s thesis was awarded the prestigious Robert Bradford Newman Student Medal — an international prize that recognizes excellence in architecture, architectural engineering and the application of acoustical design principles.

Any musician or music-loving fan will tell you that the key to a good music experience is a great venue. Ramani Ramakrishnan, an architectural science professor and acoustics engineer, supervised Guam’s research. According to Ramakrishnan, “There are two reasons why it’s particularly important to study the acoustics of temporary outdoor music venues. It’s important that audiences can hear the music and that musicians can hear themselves.”

Gaum focused his research on temporary outdoor performance venues used for jazz festivals in Toronto, Montreal and Halifax. The ultimate goal of the research was to create an ideal concept for a temporary outdoor music festival venue.

In the end, the research showed that Toronto and Halifax’s venues fell within acceptable ranges, while Montreal’s venue had some acoustic difficulties. By using the information that they collected from simulation and survey data, Gaum was able to create an optimal concept for the Montreal jazz festival venue.

Gaum and Ramakrishnan have received positive feedback on their award-winning research. A summary of Gaum’s thesis, “Acoustical Evaluation of Temporary Performance Facilities,” was published in the September 2010 issue of the Canadian Acoustics. Ramakrishnan and Gaum also presented their research at the Canadian Acoustical Association conference in Victoria in October.

Guam is now an architect but he is still interested in acoustics. He and Ramakrishnan are working together to conduct an acoustical analysis of a local church, and hope to one day publish a manual of best practices for event organizers and acoustic engineers.

The next time you enjoy the clear musical notes at your next outdoor festival, think of Gaum and Ramakrishnan it may have been their research that helped make the festival an event to remember. Perfecting the outdoor concert experience: Ryerson study [Ryerson University]

The results of CBC’s tenth annual Canada Reads competition are out—and McMaster University alumnus Terry Fallis has been crowned the winner for his novel The Best Laid Plans.

Each year, the CBC holds the Canada Reads competition wherein Canadian celebrities champion five Canadian novels. The debates, which aired on CBC Radio One, narrow down the selections to one winning book that Canadians should read.

The Best Laid Plans, published in 2008, offers a satirical fiction of Canadian politics.

Alumnus wins CBC’s Canada Reads [McMaster University]

Dr. Christoph Borchers (Credit: University of Victoria)

Dr. Christoph Borchers, working with the University of Victoria and the Genome BC Proteomics Centre, is conducting research using a machine called the Agilent ion funnel 6490 mass spectrometer. Using the mass spectrometer, Boucher takes the weight of protein molecules in blood to ascertain if certain biomarkers for heart disease or cancer are present. In this way, Borchers’s research could help detect serious diseases with a small amount of a patient’s blood.

According to Borchers, “[w]hen we can quantify the amount of proteins in the blood, then this can be a diagnostic tool for the doctor. If the doctor knows how much of a certain . . . → Read More: More Bang for Your Blood: Using a Single Drop of Blood to Test for Heart Disease, Cancer]]> What if your doctor could detect your risk for life threatening diseases with less bloodshed than you’d expend on a paper-cut? A University of Victoria researcher is working on developing the technology to do just that.

Dr. Christoph Borchers (Credit: University of Victoria)

Dr. Christoph Borchers, working with the University of Victoria and the Genome BC Proteomics Centre, is conducting research using a machine called the Agilent ion funnel 6490 mass spectrometer. Using the mass spectrometer, Boucher takes the weight of protein molecules in blood to ascertain if certain biomarkers for heart disease or cancer are present. In this way, Borchers’s research could help detect serious diseases with a small amount of a patient’s blood.

According to Borchers, “[w]hen we can quantify the amount of proteins in the blood, then this can be a diagnostic tool for the doctor. If the doctor knows how much of a certain biomarker protein is in our blood when we are healthy, he or she will be able to tell when we have an imbalance and whether that puts us at risk for heart disease.”

Borchers’s research project, the Development of a High-throughput Proteomics Platform for Biomarker Verification, has recently received a total of $431K in funding from Genome BC and the University of Victoria-Genome BC Proteomics Centre.

A Single Drop of Blood Could Detect Heart Disease and Cancer [University of Victoria]

When bogged down with exams and term papers, it can be all too easy to overlook the value of having the opportunity to educate oneself; however, the chance to learn is not always readily available to willing students.

Accordingly, in an effort to spread accessible, open learning, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the Commonwealth of Learning (COL) have appointed Dr. Rory McGreal as chair of Open Educational Resources (OER) for Athabasca University.

Open Educational Resources are free, online educational resources—such as courseware, lectures, tests and activities—that are made available to students, teachers and self-learners. When offered in an open-access format online, OERs delocalize the educational process—allowing those that are cannot attend traditional, formal classes to learn.

Working as the new UNESCO/COL chair, Dr. McGreal will work to advance and spread the use of OERs locally, nationally . . . → Read More: Promoting Open Learning — Athabasca University Creates New UNESCO/COL Chair in Open Educational Resources]]>

Dr. Rory McGreal (Photo Credit: Athabasca University)

When bogged down with exams and term papers, it can be all too easy to overlook the value of having the opportunity to educate oneself; however, the chance to learn is not always readily available to willing students.

Accordingly, in an effort to spread accessible, open learning, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the Commonwealth of Learning (COL) have appointed Dr. Rory McGreal as chair of Open Educational Resources (OER) for Athabasca University.

Open Educational Resources are free, online educational resources—such as courseware, lectures, tests and activities—that are made available to students, teachers and self-learners. When offered in an open-access format online, OERs delocalize the educational process—allowing those that are cannot attend traditional, formal classes to learn.

Working as the new UNESCO/COL chair, Dr. McGreal will work to advance and spread the use of OERs locally, nationally and internationally. For Dr. McGreal, this mandate is significant because “[w]ith new and more restrictive copyright legislation in the works, OERs are becoming essential for educators at all levels.”

Athabasca University is the first institution in Alberta to appoint a UNESCO chair of OERs.

Athabasca University awarded UNESCO/COL Chair in Open Educational Resources [Athabasca University]

Winning an Academy Award is the ultimate achievement for many actresses for whom an Oscar win represents the pinnacle of success. According to new research from the University of Toronto and Carnegie Mellon University, however, a Best Actress nod also places the winner at a higher risk of divorce.

The study, led by Tiziana Casciaro and Colleen Stuart, examined the 751 Best Actor and Best Actress nominees at the Academy Awards from 1936 to last year. Those that took the Best Actress prize—including recent winners Halle Berry, Reese Witherspoon, Kate Winslet and Sandra Bullock—were found to have a 63% greater chance of divorce soon after the award compared to the non-winners.

This increased likelihood of divorce is especially noteworthy in comparison to the men—the researchers found no increase in risk for divorce among Best Actor winners.

The researchers hypothesize that the cause of this so-called . . . → Read More: Win an Oscar, Lose a Husband: University of Toronto Study Looks at the Oscar Curse]]>

(Photo Credit: cliff1066™)

Winning an Academy Award is the ultimate achievement for many actresses for whom an Oscar win represents the pinnacle of success. According to new research from the University of Toronto and Carnegie Mellon University, however, a Best Actress nod also places the winner at a higher risk of divorce.

The study, led by Tiziana Casciaro and Colleen Stuart, examined the 751 Best Actor and Best Actress nominees at the Academy Awards from 1936 to last year. Those that took the Best Actress prize—including recent winners Halle Berry, Reese Witherspoon, Kate Winslet and Sandra Bullock—were found to have a 63% greater chance of divorce soon after the award compared to the non-winners.

This increased likelihood of divorce is especially noteworthy in comparison to the men—the researchers found no increase in risk for divorce among Best Actor winners.

The researchers hypothesize that the cause of this so-called Oscar curse could be attributed to gender dynamics within marriages, in which wives becoming much more successful than their husbands might strain relationships. As Stuart says, “it appears that even the marriages of Hollywood actresses at the top of their careers are not immune to the consequences of violating social norms that affect the wider population. Our results suggest that the sudden success reduces the longevity of their marriages.”

In any case—with the 2011 Academy Awards approaching on February 27—Annette and Nicole might have more than one reason to be nervous.

The Oscar curse? Study says that Oscar win for Best Actress increases the risk of divorce [University of Toronto]

University of Western Ontario professor and Lawson Health Research Institute scientist Femida Gwadry-Sridhar at the iThink Research Labs has led the development of an iPhone app that will show certain patients what their arteries look like. Targeted at those individuals with a high risk of stroke, Gwadry-Sridhar’s app would provide an ultrasound rendering of plague deposits in the carotid artery. The app, which will be tested in randomized control trial, would allow patients to access a password-protected site online where their artery . . . → Read More: Better for You Than Angry Birds: Researchers Create iPhone App to Show You the State of Your Arteries]]> With about a zillion web applications (apps) serving as flashlights and tip calculators, it’s easy to overlook the potential for smartphones, like the iPhone, to function as useful tools for your health. Medical researchers from the University of Western Ontario, however, have developed an app that could do more than play a game on your phone—it could motivate you to change your lifestyle to improve your health.

University of Western Ontario professor and Lawson Health Research Institute scientist Femida Gwadry-Sridhar at the iThink Research Labs has led the development of an iPhone app that will show certain patients what their arteries look like. Targeted at those individuals with a high risk of stroke, Gwadry-Sridhar’s app would provide an ultrasound rendering of plague deposits in the carotid artery. The app, which will be tested in randomized control trial, would allow patients to access a password-protected site online where their artery ultrasound images would be stored.

According to Gwadry-Sridhar, the app is useful because “[s]howing patients their own disease in a very visual way not only helps them to better understand the implications for their health, but empowers them to set a new course.  They can use the app as a benchmark while they make the necessary lifestyle changes to lower their health risk.”

While this app isn’t available as of yet, it offers promise in that it shows how creative researchers can utilize the uptake of new technologies, like smartphones, to help spread the benefits of their work to the masses.

Blocked arteries? There’s an App for that. [University of Western Ontario]

The effectiveness of online real estate tools are examined in a March 2010 study published in The Canadian Journal of Administrative Sciences, led by Ryerson University professor of marketing Jane Saber and the University of Alberta’s Paul Messinger. The study, entitled “The impact of e-information on residential real estate services: Transaction costs, social embeddedness and market conditions,” surveyed 260 middle class Canadian households and found that, with the surge of online resources available, buyers and sellers will react differently to working with an agent based on whether or not the real estate market is hot. That is, when the market is hot and information can be . . . → Read More: Do-it-Yourself Real Estate: Ryerson University Researchers Explore Buying and Selling Online]]> While consumers may like the convenience that the Internet lends to certain tasks, going online isn’t always the best way to go. As such, a new Canadian study explores the complexities of buying a home—and whether it can be effectively accomplished in cyberspace.

The effectiveness of online real estate tools are examined in a March 2010 study published in The Canadian Journal of Administrative Sciences, led by Ryerson University professor of marketing Jane Saber and the University of Alberta’s Paul Messinger. The study, entitled “The impact of e-information on residential real estate services: Transaction costs, social embeddedness and market conditions,” surveyed 260 middle class Canadian households and found that, with the surge of online resources available, buyers and sellers will react differently to working with an agent based on whether or not the real estate market is hot. That is, when the market is hot and information can be accessed online, people tend to devalue the efforts of real-estate agents in their minds.

Ryerson professor Jane Saber (Photo Credit: Ryerson University)

The main online real estate resources available to Canadian home buyers is offered by the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA), which offers a platform via the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) for potential homeowners and would-be sellers. MLS allows people to browse and post complete property information—potentially eliminating the need for hiring an agent. Sites like MLS function most effectively in a hot market—buyers can gain access and purchase property before a for sale sign even hits the lawn.

According to Saber, buyers and sellers should be cautious no matter what the market is like, “You will save a great deal of money if you go it alone, but if you don’t know what you’re doing, it can be valuable to work with an agent.” Market analysis, escrow accounts and transfer taxes are just a few of the road blocks that first time buyers or sellers may encounter when attempting do-it-yourself real estate, prompting many buyers to opt for an agent.

The study also noted trends in which groups are most effected by online real estate tools. According to Saber and Messinger, sellers are still inclined to use an agent, while buyers are most often shying away.

Saber’s advice to agents? Provide potential clients with an offer they can’t refuse. Says Saber, “That means emphasizing the value-added components of working with an agent, and showing the potential pitfalls of entering the market alone.” For many, a home will be the most important investments they make in their lives. As a first time buyer—unaware of what to watch for in the market—shying away from using an agent in the attempt to save money seems like too great a gamble.

The impact of e-information on residential real estate services [Ryerson University]

The Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology has updated Canada’s guidelines for physical activity to take into account two important factors: intensity and scheduling. The new rules—which incorporate ratings of intensity—appeal to Canadian’s to complete at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week. According to McMaster University professor and president of the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology Audrey Hicks, the flexibility of these revised guidelines allow busy adults to tailor a fitness program to fit into their schedule.

If Canadians are able to follow these new guidelines, they can hopefully enjoy the healthy benefits of exercise: living longer, fuller lives and reducing the risk of chronic illnesses.

For many of us, a trip to the ladies or mens room is a basic everyday occurance that we don’t think twice about. However, according to a new book from York University sexuality studies Professor Sheila Cavanagh, the gendered nature of modern public restrooms is a source of great distress for some people in the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered, queer or intersex (LGBTQI) community.

Sheila Cavanagh (Photo Credit: York University)

Cavanagh’s book, Queering Bathrooms: Gender Sexuality and the Hygienic Imagination (University of Toronto Press, 2010), delves into the often overlooked gender segregation that most Canadian public bathrooms impose on the public. 

Cavanagh conducted a series of interviews with individuals in the LGBTQI community to gain an understanding of the issues that some people have with strictly male or female oriented bathrooms. According to her research, Cavanagh found that many LGBTQI individuals . . . → Read More: Occupied: York Professor’s Book Looks at Gender Segregation in Public Bathrooms]]>

(Photo Credit: York University)

For many of us, a trip to the ladies or mens room is a basic everyday occurance that we don’t think twice about. However, according to a new book from York University sexuality studies Professor Sheila Cavanagh, the gendered nature of modern public restrooms is a source of great distress for some people in the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered, queer or intersex (LGBTQI) community.

Sheila Cavanagh (Photo Credit: York University)

Cavanagh’s book, Queering Bathrooms: Gender Sexuality and the Hygienic Imagination (University of Toronto Press, 2010), delves into the often overlooked gender segregation that most Canadian public bathrooms impose on the public. 

Cavanagh conducted a series of interviews with individuals in the LGBTQI community to gain an understanding of the issues that some people have with strictly male or female oriented bathrooms. According to her research, Cavanagh found that many LGBTQI individuals had faced adversity in feeling, or being told, that they were out of place or using the so-called “wrong” facilities according to their perceived gender.

Cavanagh’s book is unique in that it brings to light one of the last remaining forms of discrimination and segregation that goes unquestioned. As Cavanagh points out, as recently as the last century it was deemed acceptable to segregate public facilities–such as washrooms–based on race.

Everyone should feel comfortable using the bathroom, regardless of race, class, ability or gender. While solutions to the issue are not immediately evident, nor does Cavanagh claim to have an overnight solution to the problem, increasing awareness does seem to the first step in facilitating discussion. With this in mind, hoopefully someone soon going to the bathroom will be a non-issue for us all.

York prof’s book examines archaic attitudes associated with bathrooms [York University]

While perusing the local British Columbia liquor stores you may have noticed the “B.C. Wine” section gradually growing in size and selection. Although this may seem like a good thing on the surface for wine drinkers and wine growers, Simon Fraser University political science Professor Andy Hira begs to differ.

Wineries in B.C. have been continuously growing since 1992, when the NAFTA trade agreement between Canada, the USA and Mexico was established. This agreement gradually eliminated most trade barriers between the three countries, therefore allowing the wine industry to not only flourish in Canada but other countries as well. Until now, that is.

In a study entitled “The Wine Industry in British Columbia: A Closed Wine but Ready for Harvest,” Hira dives into the complicated workings of the wine industry and whether or not it is fated to succeed in B.C. Much to my dismay, . . . → Read More: SFU Report on The Fate of the Wine Industry in Beautiful British Columbia]]>

(Photo creditL Pennington)

While perusing the local British Columbia liquor stores you may have noticed the “B.C. Wine” section gradually growing in size and selection. Although this may seem like a good thing on the surface for wine drinkers and wine growers, Simon Fraser University political science Professor Andy Hira begs to differ.

Wineries in B.C. have been continuously growing since 1992, when the NAFTA trade agreement between Canada, the USA and Mexico was established. This agreement gradually eliminated most trade barriers between the three countries, therefore allowing the wine industry to not only flourish in Canada but other countries as well. Until now, that is.

In a study entitled “The Wine Industry in British Columbia: A Closed Wine but Ready for Harvest,” Hira dives into the complicated workings of the wine industry and whether or not it is fated to succeed in B.C. Much to my dismay, Hira has concluded that there are definite “vulnerabilities” that need to be addressed, and soon. “The question for the future is, can BC’s wines improve their quality and value to expand their markets or are we at the peak for the wine industry now?”

According to Hira, the increasing number of wineries popping up in the Okanagan Valley and surrounding area could eventually lead to the wine industries downfall. Hira states that “market forces threaten the continued growth of the industry.”

However, there is still hope. The director of sales at the prestigious winery Mission Hill Family Estate, Ingo Grady, believes that the report “needs to be discussed beyond the realm of academia.”

Grady is not alone in his belief that the wine industry still has some time to age. Wine-writer John Schreiner (author of “John Schreiner’s Okanagan Wine Tour Guide” & “British Columbia Wine Country”) criticizes the paper as being “pessimistic,” although he does note that Hira makes a valid point about vulnerabilities, and that they will need to be addressed by the major stakeholders in the B.C. wine industry.

The report, which includes over fifty interviews with experts in the wine industry (including: “winemakers, suppliers and public support institutions to the Okanagan wine industry”), is only the first step in Hira’s research. Hira, along with other researchers, will continue to examine the industry in B.C. He will also begin comparing our wine industry to similar ones in Italy, Chile, Australia and Spain. His results will remain inconclusive as of yet. This summer wine experts from Italy, Chile, Australia and Spain will make presentations to the industry regarding their own findings in wine research.

The fate of the wine industry in beautiful British Columbia is yet to be determined. BC wine has made its mark on the wine world, and whether it continues to grow or not one thing remains certain. People all over the world have come to enjoy BC wine, and that will not change.

Challenging times for B.C. wine industry – report [Simon Fraser University]

Buildings can evoke strong emotions within us, but now more than ever how do we make daring and beautiful buildings and still be kind to the environment? Carleton University has an answer. The university is offering a new Bachelor’s degree in Engineering in Architectural Conservation and Sustainability that can us teach how to build greener buildings.

Overall, the program — which begins in September of 2011 — focuses on efficiency and creating environmentally-friendly buildings: building restoration and the energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly building design.

Pulling inspiration from the environmental focus, the degree has two specializations for students to choose from: the structural stream and the environmental stream. The structural stream concentrates on conservation and sustainability in the design of new structures and the assessment and retrofit of existing structures. The environmental stream focuses . . . → Read More: Building Sustainability from the Bottom Up: New Architectural Degree at Carleton University]]> When looking up at a city skyline, have you ever marveled, “who builds these architectural wonders?”

Buildings can evoke strong emotions within us, but now more than ever how do we make daring and beautiful buildings and still be kind to the environment? Carleton University has an answer. The university is offering a new Bachelor’s degree in Engineering in Architectural Conservation and Sustainability that can us teach how to build greener buildings.

Overall, the program — which begins in September of 2011 — focuses on efficiency and creating environmentally-friendly buildings: building restoration and the energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly building design.

Pulling inspiration from the environmental focus, the degree has two specializations for students to choose from: the structural stream and the environmental stream. The structural stream concentrates on conservation and sustainability in the design of new structures and the assessment and retrofit of existing structures. The environmental stream focuses on sustainable building practices with an emphasis on water quality and conservation, air quality, life cycle analysis and disposal of materials and waste streams.

In a competitive workplace students look at real-world applications when choosing a program; as such, this program has been designed to meet the strict professional and academic requirements of the Canadian Engineering Accreditation Board. One aspect of the degree is the specialized design project that they do in their final year; there will also be co-op opportunities if they wish to explore that option in gaining valuable knowledge and experience that will assist them when entering the workforce.  

The dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Design, Rafik Goubran looks the Bachelor’s degree in Engineering in Architectural Conservation and Sustainability as a way of building bridges between disciplines, “As the design and construction of sustainable buildings requires close co-operation among the team of architects and engineers, this new interdisciplinary program will meet this need by producing graduates who will follow green principles and practices.”

Carleton University wants to do its part in protecting the environment and working towards a sustainable future. This program is another example of melding the old and the new; designing buildings that meet the needs of people and preserving our environment.

Carleton Creates Unique Degree Program in Architectural Conservation and Sustainability [Carleton University]

As the spring semester gets underway at Canadian colleges and universities, many students are trudging through their cafeterias and dining halls like study zombies, clinging to trays piled with plates of food. At Queen’s University, however, sustainability has won over convenience, and students are now being encouraged to go tray-less.

Following the lead of other Canadian schools including Dalhousie University and Carleton University, Queen’s Main Campus Residents’ Council (MCRC) implemented large-scale tray-less dining initiatives this semester in order to reduce food waste, save water and energy.

According to a “Tray-less Tuesday” trial project carried out in 2009 and 2010, tray waste was reduced by over 20 per cent when students went without trays. MCRC sustainability coordinator Lauren Long surmises that the reduced waste is due to students only taking what they want (and can carry). Without . . . → Read More: Queen’s Students Lose Their Trays, Gain Water and Energy Conservation]]>

Main Campus Residents' Council sustainability coordinator Lauren Long. (Photo Credit: Queen's University)

As the spring semester gets underway at Canadian colleges and universities, many students are trudging through their cafeterias and dining halls like study zombies, clinging to trays piled with plates of food. At Queen’s University, however, sustainability has won over convenience, and students are now being encouraged to go tray-less.

Following the lead of other Canadian schools including Dalhousie University and Carleton University, Queen’s Main Campus Residents’ Council (MCRC) implemented large-scale tray-less dining initiatives this semester in order to reduce food waste, save water and energy.

According to a “Tray-less Tuesday” trial project carried out in 2009 and 2010, tray waste was reduced by over 20 per cent when students went without trays. MCRC sustainability coordinator Lauren Long surmises that the reduced waste is due to students only taking what they want (and can carry). Without the convenience of trays, Long suggests that “tray-less dining will encourage students to ‘take what they want, and eat what they take.’ As well, the dining experience will be more like at home or a restaurant instead of a hectic cafeteria experience.”

Further supporting the environmental benefits of Queen’s tray-less dining initiatives, a study carried out by Sodexo asserts that 2,000 gallons of water can be saved for 1,000 meals served when trays are not used—which could reduce energy costs by 1.8 to 4.4 cents per tray.

It may be hard, students, but it seems that the environmental and cost benefits of ditching the trays far outweigh the convenience of throwing that extra bag of chips on your tray.

Student group promotes benefits of tray-less dining [Queen's University]

With the 2010 Vancouver Olympics now a mere memory in national history, many Canadians look fondly over their souvenirs of Canada’s moment in the international spotlight.

One such—particularity substantial—souvenir comes in Emily Carr University of Art + Design professor Landon Mackenzie’s painting “Vancouver as the Centre of the World,” which is featured in the latest issue of Canadian Art Magazine. The painting, which was specifically created for the Vancouver Olympics, is a mural-sized work representing the artist’s re-charting of the map of the world.

Landon Mackenzie in Canadian Art Magazine [Emily Carr University of Art + Design]

Most modern children’s books focus on messages of sharing and caring, often through the lens of some sort of cuddly-wuddly kid-friendly cartoon animal. A hundred years ago, however, children’s literature was quite different.

In conjunction with the approaching 100-year anniversary of the First World War, Brock University professor Lissa Paul is investigating themes in early 20th century children’s literature. According to Paul’s studies, much of the writing geared towards children in that time period focused on encouraging them to prepare for war.

For example, popular kids materials at the time included books like An ABC for Baby Patriots, in which B stands for battles.

Paul suggests the promotion of war and fighting for king and country was an integral part of pre-war culture as a tool for retraining children’s minds against natural instinctual and religious hesitations towards killing others. By investigating the . . . → Read More: Darker Than Dr. Seuss: Brock Professor Investigates How Pre-WWI Children’s Literature Promoted War Involvement]]>

Lissa Paul. (Photo Credit: Brock University)

Most modern children’s books focus on messages of sharing and caring, often through the lens of some sort of cuddly-wuddly kid-friendly cartoon animal. A hundred years ago, however, children’s literature was quite different.

In conjunction with the approaching 100-year anniversary of the First World War, Brock University professor Lissa Paul is investigating themes in early 20^th century children’s literature. According to Paul’s studies, much of the writing geared towards children in that time period focused on encouraging them to prepare for war.

For example, popular kids materials at the time included books like An ABC for Baby Patriots, in which B stands for battles.

Paul suggests the promotion of war and fighting for king and country was an integral part of pre-war culture as a tool for retraining children’s minds against natural instinctual and religious hesitations towards killing others. By investigating the depth and impact of pre-World War I children’s literature, Paul hopes to gain a better understanding of how youth culture can impact future behaviors. “If we’re ever going to stop war, we have to understand what encourages people to fight,” Paul says.

Paul will use her research to contribute to the upcoming Canadian conference studying pre-war children’s literature, which she is organizing. The Canadian conference will be one part of a three-part series sponsored by the UK’s Leverhulme Trust.

Children’s literature pre-First World War encouraged war involvement: professor [Brock University]

A cohort of ambitious psychiatric nurses assembled at Brandon University this week to mark the beginning of a new educational experience—the first Canadian Masters program in Psychiatric Nursing.

The 13 students will ultimately achieve a graduate degree in either education, administration or clinical practice of psychiatric nursing.

Students in this program will complete the bulk of their course work online from their various parts of the country. For students already working as psychiatric nurses, the online flexibility of the program allows for advanced education in the field without abandoning current careers. want to advance our profession.

“We want to advance our profession. We’re all very dedicated to psychiatry and personally, I want to make a difference,” says BC student Shannon Flannery, “You can work full time while you’re doing this and get full support online — from instructors or the help desk — and what I’ve seen so . . . → Read More: Advancing Degrees: First Master of Psychiatric Nursing Program in Canada Launched at Brandon University]]>

A cohort of ambitious psychiatric nurses assembled at Brandon University this week to mark the beginning of a new educational experience—the first Canadian Masters program in Psychiatric Nursing.

The 13 students will ultimately achieve a graduate degree in either education, administration or clinical practice of psychiatric nursing.

Students in this program will complete the bulk of their course work online from their various parts of the country. For students already working as psychiatric nurses, the online flexibility of the program allows for advanced education in the field without abandoning current careers. want to advance our profession.

“We want to advance our profession. We’re all very dedicated to psychiatry and personally, I want to make a difference,” says BC student Shannon Flannery, “You can work full time while you’re doing this and get full support online — from instructors or the help desk — and what I’ve seen so far is that the computer system is far superior to what I had before.”

This new degree offering follows a precedent for innovation in psychiatric nursing education set by Brandon University, which launched the first Bachelor of Psychiatric Nursing program in Canada in 1995.

New Master Degree in Psychiatric Nursing Launched, A First in Canada [Brandon University]

Leonardo da Vinci’s Renaissance masterpiece portrait, the Mona Lisa, has long been a source of mystery and speculation. Now, according to Ross Kilpatrick, professor emeritus of Classics at Queen’s University, there might be some literary references hidden in da Vinci’s brushstrokes.

Kilpatrick—who’s ideas about the Mona Lisa were recently published in MEDICEA—cites the Renaissance technique of ‘invention,’ whereby artists used a passage of literature as inspiration to be incorporated into their art. In the case of the Mona Lisa, Kilpatrick believes the literary allusion is to Horace’s Ode 1. 22 and some of Petrarch’s sonnets. Using these literary works, Kilpatrick asserts, explains the odd juxtaposition of the smiling woman with the desolate, barren background in the portrait: “The composition of the Mona Lisa is striking. Why does Leonardo have an attractive woman sitting on a balcony, while in . . . → Read More: What Else Could Mona Lisa Possibly Be Hiding in Her Smile?]]>

Leonardo da Vinci's painting, the Mona Lisa. (Credit: Queen's University)

Leonardo da Vinci’s Renaissance masterpiece portrait, the Mona Lisa, has long been a source of mystery and speculation. Now, according to Ross Kilpatrick, professor emeritus of Classics at Queen’s University, there might be some literary references hidden in da Vinci’s brushstrokes.

Kilpatrick—who’s ideas about the Mona Lisa were recently published in MEDICEA—cites the Renaissance technique of ‘invention,’ whereby artists used a passage of literature as inspiration to be incorporated into their art. In the case of the Mona Lisa, Kilpatrick believes the literary allusion is to Horace’s Ode 1. 22 and some of Petrarch’s sonnets. Using these literary works, Kilpatrick asserts, explains the odd juxtaposition of the smiling woman with the desolate, barren background in the portrait: “The composition of the Mona Lisa is striking. Why does Leonardo have an attractive woman sitting on a balcony, while in the background there is an entirely different world that is vast and barren?”

While it would be almost impossible to prove the artist’s intentions 500 years later, Kilpatrick’s ideas remind us that there is often more to art than meets the eye.
Professor discovers hidden literary references in the Mona Lisa [Queen's University]

An ant is not just an ant. There are many different species or kinds of ants squirming around in the dirt—and University of Alberta graduate student James Glasier is out to find them.

Since beginning his research, Glasier has identified 85 different species of ants in Alberta; this more than doubles the previously known number of species established at the university in the 1960’s.

In this video, made with the help of John Acorn, Glasier describes his research and explains why ants are an important part of the Albertan ecosystem.