A recent study by Simon Fraser University geographer Lance Lesack discovered that warmer springs with unexpected snowfall declines are driving earlier-than-expected ice breakup in great Arctic rivers. This finding is significant as it challenges previous assumptions about the effects of climate change on Arctic ice systems.
A study by Simon Fraser University ecologist Anne Salomon warns of a declining natural history research and use in academia, government agencies and non-government organizations. Natural history collections have stopped expanding since 1990, but it remains vital for making wise management and conservation decisions.
Researchers discovered that ancient clam gardens made by Aboriginal people produced quadruple the number of butter clams and twice the number of littleneck clams as unmodified clam beaches. This study provides practical insights into sustainable ancient marine management techniques for local food security strategies.
A new gene has been isolated that plays a causal role in the development of Alzheimer's disease. The gene affects amyloid-beta protein accumulation, leading to brain damage and disease progression. This breakthrough could lead to new avenues for therapeutic design and early detection methods.
Researchers at Simon Fraser University have discovered that non-coding RNAs are perturbed in cancerous human cells, allowing for early detection of breast and lung cancers. The study's findings suggest that these molecules can be used to classify patients into subgroups with different survival outcomes.
A new study utilizing archaeological reports of over half a million fish bones from Alaska, British Columbia, and Washington State found that long-ago herring populations were consistently abundant and widespread for thousands of years. This contrasts with today's dwindling and erratic herring numbers.
Researchers found a 400% increase in obesity and 250% increase in diabetes among TV, computer, and car owners in low-income countries. The study suggests that these modern conveniences contribute to a sedentary lifestyle, leading to increased rates of obesity and diabetes.
A Simon Fraser University researcher is traveling to Vietnam to study the lack of accessible services for people with mental disorders. The project aims to understand how health workers can be integrated into primary care to provide effective interventions.
Research by Simon Fraser University biologists found that male black widow spiders produce carefully pitched vibrations to signal their presence and desirability to females. The team also discovered that these vibratory signals can help avoid potential attacks from the females, allowing males to successfully court and mate.
Three new extinct fossil species of big-headed flies were discovered in Eocene epoch fossil beds, dating back 49-52 million years. These finds show early evolution parallels a significant ecological revolution, which formed modern natural communities.
Researchers at Simon Fraser University found that a mutation in the CNK2 gene affects cilia length, leading to misinterpreted signals and fatal diseases. The study provides new insights into the importance of cilia disassembly speed in determining cell function.
Researchers at Simon Fraser University are using advanced Nano X-ray Computed Tomography tools to visualize hydrogen fuel cells, enabling the development of more durable and efficient fuel cells. The new technology is expected to play a key role in reducing harmful emissions in the transportation sector.
The IPinCH Project, led by George Nicholas, has received a federal research-funding agency's Partnership Award for its large-scale use of community partners in the research process. The project has garnered $2.5 million in initial funding and supported indigenous communities across the globe in protecting their cultural heritage.
A study by Simon Fraser University researchers found nearly 40% of seniors who fall experience head impact, with linoleum or tile flooring being the most common cause. The team suggests designing safer environments, improving procedures for detecting brain injuries, and promoting strengthening exercises to reduce falls.
A new study reveals significant gaps in hypertension management across the UK, US, and Canada, resulting in thousands of preventable deaths. Data from the three countries shows that high blood pressure is a leading risk factor for mortality, morbidity, quality of life, and health expenditures.
A new report from Simon Fraser University researcher calls for expanded heroin and opioid medical treatment to address rising overdose deaths. The study highlights the gap in treatment availability in Canada and the US and recommends eliminating restrictions on methadone prescribing and reducing financial barriers to treatment.
A new brain mapping technique using magnetoencephalography (MEG) has been developed to help surgeons plan for surgical treatment in epilepsy. The study, published in Human Brain Mapping, produced detailed spatial maps of critical language functions to improve surgical outcomes.
Scientists discovered a new, extinct family of insects in British Columbia and Washington state that helps understand how animals responded to global climate change. The Eorpidae family's extinction raises questions about the impact of evolutionary diversification and climate change on communities.
A new study found that injection drug users living with HIV/AIDS who were food insecure at the start of life-prolonging antiretroviral therapy were twice as likely to die compared to those who were food secure. Researchers also found that hunger was not a primary cause of mortality in this population.
Researchers at Simon Fraser University have discovered links between electrode degradation processes and bus membrane durability. The study aims to improve fuel cell module durability and predict longevity for competitive with diesel hybrids.
A recent study on young adult crack users in Brazil highlights the critical need for targeted interventions to address this pressing issue. The research reveals extensive socio-economic marginalization, health problems, and involvement in crime among these individuals, emphasizing the importance of adequate services.
A major international study has found that sequence differences in a gene crucial to chromosome integrity predispose individuals to certain cancers. The study, published in Nature Genetics, identified variations in the TERT gene as influencing telomere length and breast and ovarian cancer risk.
The lab-on-a-chip (LOC) is a low-cost, microfluidic device that can quickly diagnose bacterial infections and recommend antibiotics for infantile diarrhea. The device's portability and affordability make it an attractive solution for remote areas with limited access to healthcare.
Researchers discovered that a person's antibody genes, operation, and potential fight-off targets vary from person to person. This study found ethnicity influences immunity, potentially impacting disease risk and treatment responses.
A team of SFU researchers has created a sequencing of the mountain pine beetle's genome, revealing large variations among individuals. The genome data will help scientists understand how the beetle causes damage and potentially stop its spread.
Researchers at Simon Fraser University have unearthed a diverse group of fossilized green lacewing insects, revealing at least 10 new species. The findings provide valuable insights into ancient life and the formation of modern natural communities.
A new research project aims to develop sustainable air conditioning and refrigeration systems for vehicles, reducing fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. The technology uses waste heat from engine exhaust to power the system, resulting in a significant reduction in emissions and energy consumption.
Scientists have discovered a new class of molecular compounds capable of killing the influenza virus. The compounds work by clogging up an enzyme that helps the virus spread, and are more effective because they are water-soluble. This breakthrough could buy scientists time to develop new vaccines for emerging strains of influenza.
A new study by SFU chemist Bingyun Sun and colleagues reveals that the number of sugars (N-Glycans) on membrane proteins correlates with their function in five animal species. The correlation has been conserved through evolution, suggesting a universal mechanism for stabilizing glycoproteins.
Researchers warn that climate change, combined with human-driven factors, could significantly reduce usable groundwater availability for agriculture worldwide. Inadequate monitoring and mismanagement of groundwater usage will exacerbate the issue, compromising global food security.
The federal government is investing in two national research projects led by SFU, one focusing on advanced materials science and the other on particle physics analysis, with potential commercial applications and global impact.
Researchers at Simon Fraser University discovered that male wasp females are marked by pheromone transfers from the tip of their antennae when approaching potential mates. This marking system allows males to quickly identify high-quality females and establishes a mating advantage, while deterring rival males from approaching.
Researchers at Simon Fraser University have improved the dating of early human settlement in the Polynesian triangle by applying uranium/thorium dating to coral artifacts. The study estimates that the first boats arrived between 880 and 896 BC, narrowing the previous timeline from 178 years to just 16 years.
Researchers have created the world's first family tree linking every known bird species and found that they are accelerating their rate of evolution. The study reveals that birds' speciation rate is increasing, not declining, with no drop-off in tropical regions.
Researchers sequenced 1092 human genomes from 14 populations to discover more numerous and rarer genetic variations than previously known. This expanded genetic information enables the discovery of rare genetic variants important for understanding population history and disease association studies.
Researchers are investigating how constantly evolving chemical modifications in our DNA and proteins cause our genome to stay healthy or develop diseases. Epigenome changes over time can affect which genes are turned on, leading to Leukemia and cancers of the colon and ovaries.
Researchers at Simon Fraser University have identified 475,806 genetic variants in the human genome that contribute to a 30% risk of developing Multiple Sclerosis. These variants, particularly those on chromosome 6, are linked to small DNA variations that have long been associated with MS susceptibility.
Researchers at Simon Fraser University have discovered a Trojan horse-like mechanism that enables antibiotics to deliver directly into a bacterial cell. The method uses pilus filaments to transport antibiotics into bacteria, offering a new approach to treat deadly bacterial infections like cholera and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
A Simon Fraser University physicist has discovered a link between variable methylation in DNA and various attributes such as age, gender, stress, and socioeconomic status. The study found that childhood poverty left a detectable molecular mark on an individual's DNA, which correlated with gene expression.
Researchers at Simon Fraser University and Purdue University have discovered a way to 'toggling' intestinal enzymes that process starchy foods, helping to better control blood glucose levels in people with Type 2 diabetes. The process involves using inhibitors to regulate the enzymes, which could lead to new solutions for diabetics and...
Researchers at Simon Fraser University have developed a novel technology to produce an enzyme used to treat lysosomal storage disease, reducing costs by up to $300,000 per year. The breakthrough uses greenhouse-grown maize seeds to manipulate messenger RNAs and control sugar processing, paving the way for more affordable treatments.
Researchers at Simon Fraser University have identified a key protein kinase, Hipk, that regulates the growth-promoting protein Yorkie, which is often found in human tumors. The study suggests that inhibiting Hipk activity may prevent tumor growth and cancer.
A team of scientists led by Robert Young is working on developing small molecule compounds and nano-medicines that stimulate bone regeneration, aiming to improve understanding of bone renewal biology and promote bone repair and regeneration. The grant is part of a $7 million funding package targeting bone health research.
Three SFU scientists, engaged in collaborative research on conservation and ecology, critique the federal government's proposal to reduce fish habitat protection. They argue that current policies suffice for protecting fish habitat, contrary to assertions from the federal fisheries minister.
Researchers have discovered a way to manipulate and measure quantum processes in solid-state systems using highly purified silicon. This breakthrough could enable the creation of practical quantum computers, which would revolutionize computing capabilities.
Researchers warn of an impending catastrophic event where the planet's ecosystems irreversibly collapse due to extreme fluctuations in climates and biodiversity loss. The study suggests that governments must take immediate action to reduce population growth, invest in sustainable technologies and adopt environmentally-friendly practices.
Researchers found that terrestrial species are less responsive to warm temperatures than marine species, which allows them to expand their ranges towards the poles. Climate change is also causing rare heat waves to set boundaries on where species can live.
The US government would benefit from investing more in eliminating socio-environmental risk factors than developing medicines for childhood disabilities. The study cites $76 billion annual disease cost and recommends creating healthy cities like Vancouver to prevent chronic diseases.
Researchers at Simon Fraser University found that cholesterol-binding proteins called ORPs can control cell growth, potentially slowing down cancer cells. Genetic changes blocked the ability of these proteins to bind cholesterol, but altered ORPs actually stimulated cell growth by activating regulator proteins.
A large-scale genetic study reveals that triple negative breast cancer tumours exhibit a continuum of different types, making them difficult to treat. The discovery highlights the importance of tailoring cancer drug treatment to individual tumour profiles.