Microcystins are present in every Canadian lake, posing health risks to humans and wildlife. The study found that water quality is most at risk in lakes with high microcystin concentrations, which are linked to low nitrogen-to-phosphorus ratios.
A special issue of Botany highlights CANPOLIN researchers' multipronged approach to pollination biology, examining topics such as climate change impacts and pollen limitation. The issue presents key findings on pollinator diversity and network analyses for conservation strategies.
A study found a widespread decrease in sockeye salmon productivity along the western North American coast, with declines observed in both pristine and heavily disturbed habitats. The authors suggest shared mechanisms such as high mortality rates from predators or pathogens may be driving the trend.
Researchers have found that lactoferrin, a protein with iron-binding properties, plays a key role in innate immunity and can protect against bacterial, viral, fungal, and protozoal infections. Lactoferrin also shows promise in preventing certain types of cancer.
Researchers suggest increased predation by grey seals may be responsible for Atlantic cod's delayed recovery on the eastern Scotian Shelf. Further investigation is needed to identify underlying factors affecting high adult death rates.
A new study reveals how climate change affects permafrost conditions across northern Canada, with varying factors influencing the thawing process. The research highlights the need for Canadians to adapt their northern infrastructure to accommodate changing ground temperatures.
A study published in Canadian Journal of Forest Research uses shoot buds from a century-old American elm to develop an in vitro conservation system, potentially providing disease resistance for future plantings. The culture system has been used successfully to establish a repository representing 17 mature American elms from Ontario.
Researchers found that clear-cut logging significantly increases the risk of avalanches penetrating into forest cover. The study provides new methods and data to predict runout distances and assess risks to facilities below avalanche terrain. This knowledge is crucial for land-use planning and management of resources.
A new study published in Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences estimates the economic impact of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill on commercial and recreational fisheries and mariculture in the Gulf of Mexico. The study predicts losses of $US8.7 billion over 7 years, affecting around 22,000 jobs.
Researchers found that rats given daily multivitamin and mineral supplements showed an 84% reduction in pre-cancerous lesions and did not develop tumors when exposed to carcinogens. The study suggests that regular supplement use could help protect against colon cancer, giving cancer patients valuable guidance.
A comprehensive review examines how climate change affects invasive alien species in Canada, highlighting the urgent need for policy development and further investigation. The study predicts profound consequences for environments, economies, and societies worldwide, including the spread of infectious diseases in the Arctic.