University Of British Columbia Research Articles

Student perspectives on the integration of environmental sustainability and climate Change into the doctor of pharmacy program curriculum.

Student perspectives on the integration of environmental sustainability and climate Change into the doctor of pharmacy program curriculum.

Bibliometric analysis of the GentleWave system: trends, collaborations, and research gaps.

The study aimed to conduct a bibliometric analysis of the GentleWave system (Sonendo, Inc.). An electronic search was conducted in June 2024 using the Web of Science Collection database. Two reviewers independently screened publications, extracting data on authorship, publication details, study design, and citation metrics. Statistical analyses were performed in R to assess variable correlations, while the VOSviewer (Visualization of Similarities Viewer) software was used to map author and keyword networks. The search yielded 47 records, with 32 studies included. Publications spanned 2014 to 2024. The Journal of Endodontics published the highest number of studies (n = 15), and the International Endodontic Journal had the highest impact factor (5.4). The University of British Columbia and Sonendo, Inc. were the most frequent affiliations. Among the 32 articles, 28 were in vitro studies, primarily focusing on microbiology (n = 9). A total of 95 authors were identified, with Haapasalo and Shen being the most cited (n = 229). The articles accumulated 495 citations, demonstrating a strong positive correlation between the number of studies and citation counts (r = 0.98). The analysis highlights a predominance of in vitro studies. Geographic concentration in the United States and Canada limits diversity, while the strong correlation between study numbers and citations suggests that increased publication volume enhances visibility.

Ethnic disparities in inherited retinal degenerations.

Ethnic disparities in inherited retinal degenerations.

Nuts'a'maat shqwaluwun - Knitting ways of life with Indigenous research principles to examine preterm birth in Quw'utsun.

The Quw'utsun Preterm Birth Study used a community-led and participatory action research methodology to investigate preterm birth in Quw'utsun, a First Nations community in Cowichan Valley, British Columbia (BC). Quw'utsun people and staff from the community's Ts'ewulhtun Health Centre partnered with the BC First Nations Health Authority, Island Health (regional health authority), and the University of British Columbia to develop Nuts'a'maat shqwaluwun (one heart, one mind), a framework for conducting research activities. Guided by Elders, Nuts'a'maat shqwaluwun incorporated Quw'utsun standards for research ethics by knitting together snuw'uy'ulh (ways of life), such as Stsi'elh stuhw tu Sul-hween (honour the Elders), with federal policy for ethical conduct of research involving Indigenous people. Situating the study at Cowichan Tribes strengthened the community's authority to lead. The framework, Nuts'a'maat shqwaluwun, fostered a research environment where we could Ti'tul'atul' tst (learn from one another). We learned to bring our knowledges together to conduct the study in ways that respected snuw'uy'ulh. This research was meaningful to Quw'utsun people because snuw'uy'ulh were respected. Our partnerships resulted in the first-ever report of preterm birth rates and risk factors among Quw'utsun people. Knowledge translation activities enhanced community access to results. Indigenous Peoples have an inherent and legislated right to self-determination, including the right to lead research involving them. Several principles within Nuts'a'maat shqwaluwun enabled Quw'utsun people to lead this research: (1) trusting relationships; (2) respecting community-specific ways of life; (3) community ownership and access to data; and (4) training opportunities to lead research.

ECR Spotlight – Ensiyeh Ghanizadeh-Kazerouni

ABSTRACT ECR Spotlight is a series of interviews with early-career authors from a selection of papers published in Journal of Experimental Biology and aims to promote not only the diversity of early-career researchers (ECRs) working in experimental biology but also the huge variety of animals and physiological systems that are essential for the ‘comparative’ approach. Ensiyeh Ghanizadeh-Kazerouni is an author on ‘ Mitochondrial respiration capacity impacts gill tissue regeneration in Atlantic salmon’, published in JEB. Ensiyeh is a Postdoctoral Fellow in the lab of Dr Colin Brauner at the University of British Columbia, Canada, investigating how animals respond to and cope with environmental stressors and damage to their tissues.

Analysis of research trends and hot spots on COPD biomarkers from the perspective of bibliometrics.

Analysis of research trends and hot spots on COPD biomarkers from the perspective of bibliometrics.

Mapping the research landscape of oral appliances in obstructive sleep apnea: a bibliometric analysis of trends, influential publications, and emerging areas

BackgroundOral appliances (OAs) are widely used in the management of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), yet a comprehensive understanding of the research landscape in this field is lacking. This study aims to map the global research trends, influential publications, leading researchers, and emerging areas of interest related to OAs for OSA.MethodologyData were retrieved from the Scopus. The search included terms related to OSA and OA. Articles were screened using Rayyan software. VOS viewer™ and Bibliometrix were used for analysis. Data were visualized through network maps and graphs to identify key authors, research centers, countries, and keyword trends. Co-occurrence of keywords and citation patterns were assessed to understand the research dynamics.ResultsOut of 1370 initially retrieved articles, 753 were selected for final analysis, revealing a marked increase in scientific output in recent years. The study identified approximately 2400 researchers, with notable work from Cistulli P.A., Vanderveken O.M., and Lowe A.A., who formed key clusters. Major research hubs included The University of British Columbia, The University of Sydney, and Royal North Shore Hospital. The USA and Japan led in citations and publications. Global collaboration patterns were evident, showing contributions from various countries. Keywords like “obstructive sleep apnea,” “mandibular advancement device,” and “oral appliance” were frequently used, while emerging trends highlighted gaps in research related to tongue retaining and hybrid appliances. The top 20 cited documents from 1995–2020 encompassed reviews, clinical practice guidelines, and randomized trials, with the “Sleep” journal being the most cited source.ConclusionThis bibliometric analysis provides a detailed overview of the research landscape on OAs for OSA. The study highlights significant trends, influential researchers, and key research centers. It also identifies emerging areas of interest and research gaps, offering guidance for future research to enhance the clinical effectiveness and adoption of OA therapy for OSA.

Trends and Collaborative Networks in the Use of Electrospun Nanofibers in Dentistry: A Bibliometric Study.

To analyze trends and collaboration networks in the use of electrospun nanofibers in dentistry from 2019 to 2024. A descriptive, observational study with a bibliometric approach was conducted. The inclusion criteria were documents that addressed the use of electrospun nanofibers in dentistry, published between 2019 and 2024. The search was performed in Scopus on December 30, 2024, using a specific keyword strategy. Forty-five relevant documents were identified. The selection, extraction, and analysis procedures were carried out using Bibliometrix, R Studio, and SciVal. Some metrics analysis such as the h-index, number of citations, and collaboration networks were evaluated. The results showed an annual decrease of 2.64% in publication growth, with an average of 11.69 citations per document. The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, and the University of British Columbia stood out for their impact. The most relevant thematic clusters were "tissue scaffolds" and "nanofibers." Most authors had written only one paper. The most influential journals were found in Zone 1 according to Bradford's law. These findings underline the importance of fostering international collaboration and focusing on high-citation areas to advance the research and application of electrospun nanofibers in dentistry. This study highlights the clinical importance of electrospun nanofibers in dentistry, showcasing their potential to transform dental treatments. The results stress the need for international collaboration and focusing on high-impact research areas. By analyzing trends and collaborative networks, dental professionals can utilize the advantages of electrospun nanofibers, resulting in improved patient outcomes, enhanced tissue regeneration, and more effective dental therapies. This research paves the way for innovative applications and future advancements in dental materials and techniques. How to cite this article: Huaman-De la Cruz M, Medina J, Munive-Degregori A, et al. Trends and Collaborative Networks in the Use of Electrospun Nanofibers in Dentistry: A Bibliometric Study. J Contemp Dent Pract 2025;26(1):110-116.

Teaching computational archival science: context, pedagogy, and future directions

Introduction. The paper describes the development of the new transdisciplinary field of computational archival science (CAS) and the integration of computational thinking (CT) concepts into archival science. Method. The authors show how CAS can be introduced into graduate archival training through two case studies at the University of Maryland and the University of British Columbia and discuss building and sustaining CAS educator networks. Analysis. The paper argues that, given the increasing use of AI in archival work and research, the acquisition of computational skills and competencies is urgent for those entering the profession, but sees several barriers, including the willingness of archival educators to engage in this space, and the shortage of CAS educators. There is also a perceived conflict among some in the archival profession between CAS and recent archival scholarship emphasizing postcolonialism themes. Results. Results show this is a false dichotomy, as demonstrated by the many CAS papers focusing on ethical and social justice aspects of computing and archival work. Conclusion. The teaching of CAS is a necessity for archivists to stay relevant and responsive to the changing landscape. We offer CAS graduate curriculum learning guidelines, ensuring that archives remain accessible, trustworthy, and reflective of our evolving society.

Joint rounds as a method to partner surgical residency programs and enhance global surgical training: the Guyana-UBC joint rounds project.

SummaryWithin the field of global surgery, partnerships between low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and high-income countries (HICs) are often used to improve surgical capacity and enhance surgical training. Similarly, medical rounds are common in postgraduate medical training, although joint rounds between LMICs and HICs have not been widely used. Over 1 year, 6 online joint education rounds were held for general surgery residents at the University of British Columbia and the University of Guyana. Rounds comprised resident-led case-based presentations on a surgical subspecialty topic. These rounds were evaluated by residents through an online survey and were found to be valuable and relevant to their training, with mutual and differential benefits to Canadian and Guyanese residents. This project demonstrated that joint rounds are a meaningful method to partner surgical residency programs and can provide another tool for implementation of global surgery.

Bibliometric analysis on the research trends in neurotrophic factors

Objective: This study aimed to conduct a bibliometric analysis on the research progress of neurotrophic factors (NTFs) in recent 10 years, in which, we delineated the productivity of authors, institutions, and countries, identifying influential journals, and uncovering research hotspots and leading trends. Methods: Data were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection using the keyword “neurotrophic growth factor”. After refining search criteria, 2,510 publications, including 1,953 articles and 557 reviews, were analyzed. Meanwhile, tools such as VOSviewer and Microsoft Excel were employed for data visualization, network mapping, and trend analysis. Results: The analysis revealed a relatively stable publication trend from 2014 to 2019, followed by a gradual decline after 2019. The United States led in research output (705 publications), followed by China (550 publications), with China showing significant growth in recent years. Institutional contributions were dominated by Chinese universities, such as Sun Yat-sen University, while Western institutions, such as the University of British Columbia and University of California, Los Angeles, demonstrated higher citation impacts. Among authors, Margaret Fahnestock and Ronald S. Duman emerged as highly influential based on citation metrics, despite fewer publications compared to other prolific authors. Keyword analysis highlighted emerging research themes, such as NTF-based therapies and innovative delivery systems. Conclusion: This bibliometric analysis provides a comprehensive overview of NTF research over the past decade, highlighting trends in productivity, impact, and collaboration. While Chinese institutions and authors contributed significantly to the field's volume, Western counterparts produced more impactful studies. These findings underscore the evolving landscape of NTF research and offer insights to guide future studies and clinical applications.

Global discussion on life cycle assessment allocation methods for recycled fibers

On September 3rd, 2024, North Carolina State University, the University of British Columbia, Aalto University, the University of Chile, and the University of the Basque Country organized a global webinar on allocation methods for recycled fibers. The event focused on the challenges and complexities associated with allocation methods for open-loop recycling systems, focusing on bio-based fibers for packaging. The webinar featured three expert presentations by Dr. Tomas Ekvall, Dr. Caroline Gaudreault, and MSc. Ivana Azuaje, each offering valuable insights into the topic.

Susan M. Johnson (1947-2024).

Memorializes Susan M. Johnson (1947-2024). Johnson was a world-leading researcher, therapist, and the primary developer of emotionally focused therapy (EFT), the leading form of couple therapy. Her innovative approach to therapy, which is also used with individuals and families, focuses on the power of emotion to create change and is based in attachment science. Johnson actively used research to develop, refine, and advance EFT. She was a distinguished research professor at Alliant International University, a professor of clinical psychiatry at the University of British Columbia, and a professor emeritus of clinical psychology at the University of Ottawa. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved).

The 4 m International Liquid Mirror Telescope: Construction, operation, and science

The International Liquid Mirror Telescope (ILMT) project was motivated by the need for an inexpensive 4 metre diameter optical telescope that could be devoted entirely to astronomical surveys. Its scientific programmes include the detection and study of transients, variable objects, asteroids, comets, space debris and low surface brightness galaxies. To this end, a collaboration was formed between the Institute of Astrophysics and Geophysics (Liège University, Belgium), several Canadian universities (University of British Columbia, Laval University, University of Montreal, University of Toronto, York University, University of Victoria) and the Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES, India). After several years of design work in Belgium and construction in India on the ARIES Devasthal site, the telescope saw its first light on 29 April 2022. Its commissioning phase lasted from May 2022 until June 2023 (beginning of the monsoon). The ILMT was inaugurated on 21 March 2023 and has been in regular operation since October 2023. The telescope continuously observes the sky passing at the zenith using the SDSS ɡ′, r′, and i′ filters. This paper describes the ILMT, its operation, performance and shows some initial results.

Accuracy of keratoconus-specific formulae compared to standard formulae for intraocular lens power calculation in patients with keratoconus.

Accuracy of keratoconus-specific formulae compared to standard formulae for intraocular lens power calculation in patients with keratoconus.

Accelerated epigenetic aging worsens survival and mediates environmental stressors in fibrotic interstitial lung disease.

The role of epigenetic aging in the environmental pathogenesis and prognosis of fibrotic interstitial lung disease (fILD) is unclear. We evaluated whether ambient particulate matter ≤2.5 μm (PM2.5) and neighbourhood disadvantage exposures are associated with accelerated epigenetic aging, and whether epigenetic age is associated with adverse clinical outcomes in patients with fILD. This multicentre, international, cohort study included patients with fILD from the University of Pittsburgh (UPitt, n=306) and University of British Columbia (UBC, n=170). Five-year PM2.5 exposures were estimated using satellite-derived models. Neighbourhood disadvantage was calculated using U.S. and Canadian Census-based metrics. Epigenetic age difference (EAD=epigenetic age - chronological age) was calculated using GrimAge analysis of blood DNA methylation data. Linear models assessed associations of exposures with EAD. Cox models assessed associations of EAD with transplant-free survival. Causal mediation analysis evaluated EAD mediation of exposure-survival relationships. Median epigenetic age was 11.7 years older than chronological age in patients with fILD. In combined cohort analysis, each interquartile range (IQR) PM2.5 increase was associated with 2.88 years (95%CI 1.39-4.38, p<0.001) increased EAD. In UPitt, each IQR neighbourhood disadvantage increase was associated with 1.16 years (95%CI 0.22-2.09, p=0.02) increased EAD. Increased EAD was associated with worse transplant-free survival (HR=1.17 per 1-year increase EAD, 95%CI 1.10-1.24, p<0.001), with EAD mediating 40% of PM2.5-survival relationship and 59% of neighbourhood disadvantage-survival relationships. Epigenetic age was also more strongly associated with transplant-free survival than chronological age. Epigenetic age acceleration is associated with worse survival and mediates adverse exposure impacts in fILD.

Evaluating human ability to distinguish between ChatGPT-generated and original scientific abstracts.

This study aims to analyze the accuracy of human reviewers in identifying scientific abstracts generated by ChatGPT compared to the original abstracts. Participants completed an online survey presenting two research abstracts: one generated by ChatGPT and one original abstract. They had to identify which abstract was generated by AI and provide feedback on their preference and perceptions of AI technology in academic writing. This observational cross-sectional study involved surgical trainees and faculty at the University of British Columbia. The survey was distributed to all surgeons and trainees affiliated with the University of British Columbia, which includes general surgery, orthopedic surgery, thoracic surgery, plastic surgery, cardiovascular surgery, vascular surgery, neurosurgery, urology, otolaryngology, pediatric surgery, and obstetrics and gynecology. A total of 41 participants completed the survey. 41 participants responded, comprising 10 (23.3%) surgeons. Eighteen (40.0%) participants correctly identified the original abstract. Twenty-six (63.4%) participants preferred the ChatGPT abstract (p = 0.0001). On multivariate analysis, preferring the original abstract was associated with correct identification of the original abstract [OR 7.46, 95% CI (1.78, 31.4), p = 0.006]. Results suggest that human reviewers cannot accurately distinguish between human and AI-generated abstracts, and overall, there was a trend toward a preference for AI-generated abstracts. The findings contributed to understanding the implications of AI in manuscript production, including its benefits and ethical considerations.

Special section in honour of Professor Norman Epstein of the University of British Columbia

Special section in honour of Professor Norman Epstein of the University of British Columbia

Botulinum Toxin in Aesthetic Medicine: A Bibliometric Analysis of Research Trends and Methodological Quality of the Top 100 Cited Publications.

Botulinum toxin is widely used in aesthetic medicine, with numerous studies examining its efficacy and safety. This bibliometric analysis aims to describe research trends and assess the methodological quality of the highest-impact botulinum toxin research in aesthetic applications. The authors of this study identified the 100 most-cited publications on botulinum toxin in aesthetics using Web of Science, covering all available journal years (from inception to October 2024). The Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine Level of Evidence (LOE) was used to assess the methodological quality of each study. The authors identified 1728 articles on the aesthetic uses of botulinum toxin, with the top 100 most-cited articles spanning from 1994 to 2021. The United States dominated the research landscape with 50 articles, followed by Canada (15). The University of California (United States) and the University of British Columbia (Canada) emerged as the top contributing institutions. Among journals, Dermatologic Surgery led in publication count, followed by Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Aesthetics Surgery Journal. Notably, Professors Jean Carruthers and Alastair Carruthers from Canada were the leading researchers, topping both publication count and citation metrics. Notably, more than half of the studies were classified as LOE 5 (Expert Opinion/Narrative Review). This bibliometric analysis reveals a paucity of high-quality studies in the field of botulinum toxin in aesthetic medicine, with research predominantly concentrated in western countries. These findings highlight the need for more rigorous, evidence-based studies and increased global collaboration to advance the understanding and application of botulinum toxin in aesthetics.

Just-in-Time Financial Education for University Students: Enhancing Financial Decision-Making in a Mixed Learning Environment

The purpose of this research is to demonstrate the increasing vitality of financial education. University students today face complex financial decisions, from managing student loans to budgeting for daily expenses, but many of them still struggle with applying this knowledge effectively, which underscores the need for more practical and timely educational interventions. This paper explores the potential of just-in-time financial education in improving financial decision-making among university students, specifically within a mixed-learning environment. The research, conducted through a survey of 100 students at the University of British Columbia, investigates their financial literacy, attitudes toward financial education, and opinions on the just-in-time approach. The findings reveal that while a majority of students have received some form of financial education, the impact of traditional courses is often limited and short-lived. In contrast, nearly all students expressed a preference for just-in-time education, favoring its immediacy and relevance during critical decision-making moments. The study concludes that just-in-time education, enhanced by digital tools, offers a more effective alternative to traditional methods, allowing students to access timely, practical financial knowledge.