A new mathematical formula has been developed to measure sediment transport in rivers, providing a crucial tool for scientists and planners. The formula takes into account the shape and features of individual sediment grains, allowing for more accurate predictions of sediment transport rates.
A global study of nearly 40,000 adults found that neighborhoods with diverse land use, street connectivity, and safety features encourage more walking and cycling. The research suggests that these environmental factors play a crucial role in promoting physical activity.
Researchers at Simon Fraser University have identified emerging alternative semiconductors that can enable self-powered, eco-friendly smart sensors for the Internet of Things. These printable electronics have a lower carbon footprint and cost compared to conventional semiconductor technologies.
A national research team, led by Simon Fraser University professor Meghan Winters, aims to create more sustainable transportation options in Canadian cities. The team will focus on improving bicycling networks and strategies to reduce speed, with a goal of supporting health, mobility, and equity outcomes.
Researchers tested the effectiveness of brain stimulation followed by cognitive exercise for treating Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) in youth. The study found significant changes in brain activity and a reduction in depressive symptoms, suggesting a promising treatment option.
An SFU study is evaluating evidence-based interventions for older adults experiencing homelessness in Vancouver, Montreal, and Calgary. The project aims to improve services with a focus on 'Aging in the Right Place', addressing unique challenges such as harassment and bullying.
Researchers developed a global indicator to measure marine biodiversity based on extinct fish populations, revealing worsening extinction risk since the 1950s. Implementing management measures can reduce fishing mortality and recover tunas and billfishes, but sharks continue to face threats due to overfishing.
A Simon Fraser University study found that Americans are more likely to share COVID-19 misinformation online compared to four other English-speaking countries. The polarized political landscape and populist attitudes in the US contributed to this phenomenon.
A study reveals female false widow spiders disseminate pheromones through their webs, adjusting the pH level of silk to lure males and deposit courtship-inducing pheromone components. This sophisticated method involves slowly breaking down pheromone components to attract males.
A recent study by Simon Fraser University researcher Julia Smith found that women healthcare providers experienced 'double distress' in both their workplaces and homes during the COVID-19 pandemic. The researchers listened to stories of women participants to understand the challenges they faced, including inadequate staffing, lack of c...
The study found that personality types, like orchids and dandelions, affect cognitive health in older adults. Researchers suggest designing supportive programs tailored to individual needs, not a one-size-fits-all approach.
A new study found that mental health-related incidents remained relatively stable despite pandemic restrictions, contradicting claims of increased incidents. Researchers recommend focusing on preventative measures like housing and social services to address mental health issues.
New research highlights how logging operations have shifted to lower-value components of forests over time, raising concerns about long-term sustainability and intergenerational access. The study suggests that policy interventions can influence management paradigms and shape the distribution of forest harvesting across the landscape.
Scientists at Simon Fraser University have made a breakthrough in developing quantum technology by observing over 150,000 silicon 'T centre' photon-spin qubits. This discovery enables the creation of massively scalable quantum computers and quantum internet that can connect them.
Researchers at SFU have developed new chemical biological tools to monitor Parkinson’s disease progression, measuring the activity of lysosomal glucocerebrosidase (GCase) enzyme. This breakthrough could lead to improved diagnostics and treatment, as well as a better understanding of other neurodegenerative diseases linked to GCase.
Researchers at Simon Fraser University developed a biomarker that combines genetic features and brain MRI data to predict the future conversion to Alzheimer's disease. This combination improves the performance in predicting dementia progression, especially for patients with mild cognitive impairment.
The project aims to develop expansive and interdisciplinary data fluencies combining arts and humanities with critical work in the data sciences. Researchers will cultivate the next generation of end-users, innovators, humanists and critical thinkers to create technologies that tell more diverse stories and increase equitable access.
Climate change is transforming ecosystems, leading to loss of species and addition of others. Proactive approaches, such as restoring connectivity and conserving habitats, can help ecosystems adapt and maintain resilience.
A new study published in Biology Letters found that climate change is negatively impacting bumble bees, with six species decreasing in population and 22 increasing, while the remaining 18 remained stable. Temperature changes were found to have a primary negative impact on bumble bee populations.
A new study reveals that using portable HEPA filter air cleaners during pregnancy can improve cognitive development in children. The UGAAR randomized controlled trial found that children born to mothers with air cleaner use had higher intelligence quotients and verbal comprehension scores, indicating a potential benefit of reducing exp...
A study of over 100,000 individuals found that those who sat for six to eight hours a day had a 12-13% increased risk of early death and heart disease, while those who sat for more than eight hours daily increased the risk by 20%. High amounts of sitting time were associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease globally.
Researchers at Simon Fraser University found that experiencing a balance-threatening physical consequence enhances motor learning and improves movement patterns for safer movement. This innovative approach could lead to effective therapies for individuals with neurological impairment.
An international study identified 562 terrestrial vertebrate species as 'lost', meaning they haven't been seen in over 50 years. The majority of these lost species are found in megadiverse tropical countries and are considered potentially extinct.
A recent SFU study found that 79% of Vancouver residents have access to a grocery store within a 15-minute walk, while 99% can reach one via cycling. However, there are inequities in access across populations and neighbourhoods, disproportionately affecting children, older adults, and racialized populations.
A new system, RescueCASTR, equips rescuers with 360-degree body cameras sending video and photos back to a central command post. This allows the commander to track teams, coordinate efforts and get on-the-ground views of wilderness conditions.
A recent study found that over a third of people who use drugs in Vancouver reported a decline in the quality of their drugs during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to an increased risk of non-fatal overdoses. Researchers highlight the need for a safer and regulated supply of drugs to address this growing concern.
Researchers found that the nervous system explores multiple coordination patterns to learn new movements, then adapts specific aspects for optimal performance. This process reduces energy cost by up to 25%.
Researchers at Simon Fraser University have discovered a deep connection between two previously distinct fields of physics, stochastic thermodynamics and transition-path theory, allowing for a framework to quantify reaction information. This framework enables researchers to separate signal from noise in massive datasets, facilitating b...
A global study compared COVID-19 transmission strategies in 15 countries and found that eliminator countries had lower levels of psychological distress and better life evaluations. Mitigator countries, such as Canada, experienced greater negative impacts on mental health due to restrictions on social connections.
Rates of depression and loneliness surged among older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly women aged 65-74 who experienced a 67% increase in loneliness. Effective interventions are needed to address social isolation, including digital technology education, virtual group fitness classes, and outreach programs for youth.
Researchers have created a virtual self-management tool called VMood to help reduce the community mental health gap in Vietnam. The app will link users with mental health resources and be available across the country, with support for community-based interventions for depression and anxiety.
A Simon Fraser University study found that Google's autocomplete subtitles for 37 conspiracy theorists were never consistent with their behavior. The labels often normalized individuals who spread misinformation and harm to minority groups. Researchers call for Google to review these subtitles to better inform the public.
A new study by Simon Fraser University finds that temporary nature-based carbon removal can lower global peak warming levels if complemented by aggressive emissions reductions. However, the stored carbon could be lost back to the atmosphere due to human activities like wildfires or deforestation.
A new predictive model, LAMAP, assesses landscape variables to identify potential archaeological sites. The model was tested in Alaska's Tanana Valley and successfully predicted high-potential areas for hunter-gatherer campsites.
Research at Simon Fraser University found that sharks produce a lower metabolic rate and recumbent body posture when inactive for longer periods, supporting the idea that they sleep to conserve energy. This is the first physiological evidence of sleep among elasmobranchs, a fish group including sharks, rays, and skates.
A recent study published in The Journals of Gerontology: Series B found that female informal caregivers who provide intensive care at home experienced higher levels of depression and anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic. Those caring for a loved one within the home reported more depressive symptoms and anxiety compared to those caring ...
Researchers at Simon Fraser University have developed robots that can take a patient's blood pressure using only a simple touch, inspired by the folding mechanisms of leeches. The origami-inspired dry electrodes can be integrated onto humanoid-sensing robots to monitor blood pressure without traditional cuff-based digital sphygmomanome...
A new study by the Mental Health and Climate Change Alliance found that climate change weather events, such as last summer's Western North American heat dome, significantly increased anxiety levels among British Columbians. The researchers used a validated measurement tool to explore the impacts of extreme heat on mental health in Canada.
Researchers developed a new avalanche forecasting method using computer simulations of snow cover, which can detect weak layers and identify hazard in a different way. The approach showed consistent results with observed frequencies over 16 years, offering potential to support forecasting in the future.
Violent crimes increased in poorer neighbourhoods of Vancouver, while thefts rose in wealthier areas during the pandemic. The study suggests that focusing on social assistance rather than policing is critical in marginalized areas.
Researchers at Simon Fraser University discovered that the number of molecular machines affects system performance, highlighting a key design principle for optimizing collective behavior.
A new 3D-printed wearable sweat sensor developed at SFU can analyze chemicals and health information in sweat to assess hydration, stress, and nutrition levels. The non-invasive technology has the potential to become a widely accessible sample type for monitoring human health status.
A Simon Fraser University-led study highlights the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on women physicians, who bear the brunt of unpaid care work and emotional labor. The research emphasizes the need for improved support systems and recognition of women's contributions to address burnout and mental health challenges.
Researchers found that a combination of light exercise, connecting with loved ones, and engaging in hobbies reduces memory decline in adults between 65-89. The study's machine learning model analyzed 33 activities, showing increased impact with age.
A study finds that glacier retreat in the Pacific mountains could produce over 6,150 km of potential new salmon habitat by 2100, benefiting salmon populations. Climate change poses challenges for salmon survival, but newly created habitats can provide opportunities for local populations to thrive.
A new study found a dramatic increase in people with co-occurring mental health needs and substance use disorders in B.C. prisons, reaching 75% of the prison population. The study calls for more treatment and efforts to address social and structural inequities.
Researchers used DNA analysis to confirm traditional Tsleil-Waututh Nation fishing practices that promoted sustainable management and conservation. These practices, which selectively harvested male salmon, allowed for larger harvests while maintaining healthy populations and successful spawning.
A Simon Fraser University study reveals childcare educators and unpaid caregivers faced fear, anxiety, and unclear public health directives during the pandemic. The findings highlight the need for a gender-responsive pandemic preparedness plan to mitigate unequal effects on women's careers and wellbeing.
A new Simon Fraser University study found that reducing vessel activity is crucial for the survival of endangered West Coast southern resident killer whales. The research suggests that these whales spend most of their time foraging in the absence of ships and boats to meet their daily energy needs.
A recent study published in Global Change Biology found that declines of Pacific salmon and trout are associated with 40 years of changes in their combined marine and freshwater ecosystems. The study reveals that stressors in both environments combine to impact fish resiliency, resulting in lower survival rates in rivers and the sea.