1. Program dramatically improves reading of at-risk students at an early age
In just two years of this study, the number of Grade 1 children with reading difficulties dropped by more than 97 per cent-and the tools to make it happen are already available.
2. Pet exposure may reduce allergies and obesity
Dog lovers rejoice: this research showed that having a four-legged family member around during pregnancy and in the early months can be a boon to baby's immune system.
3. Unheralded yet costly flu-like virus to hit the province hard, according to UAlberta research
Virologists predicted a nasty season for RSV-a virus you've never heard of that costs Canada $50 million a year to treat. As if the flu weren't bad enough.
4. Possible new target for treatment of multiple sclerosis found by UAlberta researchers
By pinpointing a potential culprit for MS-an underlying defect in brain cells-medical researchers opened a host of new possibilities for treating the debilitating disease.
5. Ice scientist puts new spin on why curling rocks curl
The first mathematical explanation of a rock's J-shaped curl showed that it's like what happens when a circular saw gets jammed. Next step: figuring out how to give Team Canada an edge at the Winter Olympics.