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SFU scientists seek teaching excitement at AAAS

Simon Fraser University faculty members are attending the American Association for the Advancement of Science conference to share their teaching experiences and learn about innovative methods for engaging students in science education. They aim to bring new approaches back to their programs to benefit students, with a focus on active l...

Changing the face of science

The Science Posse program, developed by Brandeis professor Irv Epstein, recruits and trains underrepresented students for college-level science. The program has seen significant success, with all currently enrolled students planning to major in science and many attending prestigious summer research programs.

Measuring the stress of forested areas

Researchers at the University of the Basque Country study plants' defence mechanisms to predict photo-oxidative stress. They discover antioxidants like vitamin E and carotenoids, which help protect plants from excessive light, and identify new cycles like the lutein epoxide cycle.

Precision control of movement in robots

Scientists at the University of the Basque Country have developed robots with improved precision control using shape-memory alloys. These materials enable precise positioning, making them suitable for applications such as machine tooling and large-dimension telescopes.

Tundra disappearing at rapid rate

A University of Alberta study reveals that tundra treelines are advancing at a faster pace than previously thought, leading to significant changes in vegetation and habitat loss. The researchers found that warmer temperatures triggered an 'upslope surge' of trees, forcing out native species and altering the landscape.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Ecology·DateMar 5, 2007

Research paper examines depression in 3 cities in Pakistan

A recent study published in PLOS ONE found significant regional variation in depression rates among households in Lahore, Quetta, and Karachi. Middle-aged females with secondary school education were most affected, highlighting the need to revise existing mental health policies.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 13, 2007

Squirrels place winning bet in unpredictable world

In a study published in Science, researchers found that red squirrels are able to predict the timing of tree seed production and produce a second litter of babies to take advantage of the abundant food. This strategy allows them to maximize their reproductive success, outsmarting the trees' 'swamp and starve' tactic.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalScience·DateDec 21, 2006

Robot device dusts potential bombs for fingerprints

A new robotic device called RAFFE has been developed by scientists from the University of Toronto and the University of Calgary to safely collect fingerprint evidence from suspicious packages. The device uses heat and fumes to react with oils in fingerprints, turning them white, allowing for photographing before safe disposal.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalJournal of Forensic Sciences·DateApr 19, 2004

UD Geographer Receives Lifetime Achievement Award

John R. Mather, a renowned University of Delaware geographer, has been awarded the Association of American Geographers' Lifetime Career Honor for his exemplary service to the profession and association over his entire career. Mather's contributions in research, climatology, and instruction are highly regarded throughout the profession.