A study by University of Adelaide scientists has confirmed that a mutated OAS1 gene increases the vulnerability of horses to the West Nile virus. The findings suggest that genetic mechanisms play a similar role in humans and horses, highlighting the potential for screening valuable horses for the presence of the mutation.
A new blood test can predict whether newborn babies are at high risk of developing allergies as they grow older, thanks to research involving the University of Adelaide.
The University of Adelaide's Environment Institute has ranked countries based on their environmental impact using seven indicators. The study found that total wealth is the most important driver of environmental impact, contradicting the Kuznets curve hypothesis.
Researchers have successfully recreated mammoth haemoglobin using ancient DNA from Siberian specimens. The team's findings reveal unique physiological adaptations that allowed mammoths to survive in harsh Arctic conditions, enabling them to cool their extremities and minimize heat loss.
A University of Adelaide pathologist has sounded a warning about the dangers of herbal medicines, which can cause serious illnesses, exacerbate pre-existing health problems, or result in death if taken in excess or combined with prescription drugs. The study analyzed 251 Asian herbal products and found high levels of toxic substances.
A new wound treatment has received $529,450 in funding to speed up healing of chronic wounds like burns and ulcers. The treatment uses antibodies to suppress a protein that restricts wound healing, promising benefits for the aged, obese and diabetics.
A new scientific paper provides strong evidence that humans caused the extinction of Australia's megafauna, rather than climate change. Direct dating methods show that humans and megafauna co-existed for a short time, supporting the argument that hunting led to their demise.
University of Adelaide researchers have developed a low-cost bushfire detection system that can be sent via SMS or mobile network, warning authorities and people living in fire-risk areas of impending bushfires. The system costs less than $500 to build and uses solar-powered energy, reducing running costs.
Scientists have discovered that the Milky Way's magnetic field is significantly stronger than initially believed, with a strength of at least 10 times greater than the rest of the galaxy. This finding has important implications for various astronomical data calculations and theories, including star formation and cosmology.
Researchers have identified a critical imbalance of regulatory cells and increased 'attack' cells in people with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. This imbalance can be addressed through diet and lifestyle changes, reducing the need for colonoscopies.
Ancient DNA analysis reveals new horse species in Eurasia and South America, with the Cape zebra found to be a large variant of the modern Plains zebra, while a small hippidion horse was discovered in South America. A new ass species also appears related to European fossils dating back 1.5 million years.
Scientists reconstructed New Zealand's geological history using the first complete genetic history of the moa, revealing a history of marine barriers, mountain building, and glacial cycles over millions of years. The study also suggests that many iconic species evolved solely on the South Island.
Australian scientists have achieved world-leading oil production rates from algae grown in open saline ponds, paving the way for commercial quantities of clean biofuel. The multi-million dollar pilot plant will test the whole process on a larger scale and aims to produce biofuel at less than $1 a kilo.
A University of Adelaide study found a link between late pregnancy folic acid supplements and increased risk of asthma in children. The study suggests that the timing of supplementation is crucial in minimizing potential adverse effects.
Researchers from the University of Adelaide have published unique research data on the world's only monotremes, providing new light on the platypus sex chromosome system. The team discovered a complex mechanism where sex chromosomes pair during sperm development in platypus.
Researchers analyzed ancient bison genetic mutations to identify important variations in domestic animals, potentially improving agricultural breeding programs and disease resistance. The study also revealed the evolutionary history of the ruminant family tree and provided insights into climate change adaptations.
A recent study has shown that conservation targets are often too small to prevent extinction due to global climate change and habitat loss. Populations of endangered species require at least 5000 mature individuals to persist, highlighting the need for more effective conservation management.
The University of Adelaide's Professor Konrad Jamrozik has spent 30 years campaigning against smoking and helping smokers quit. He has contributed significantly to tobacco control through his research, clinical trials, and advocacy.
Australian researchers have discovered a vast number of new species of invertebrates living in underground water, caves and micro-caverns across arid and semi-arid Australia. The team found whole communities of previously unknown invertebrate animals, revealing a completely new component to the country's biodiversity.
A recent study published in Archives of Internal Medicine found that 29% of chronic angina patients experience angina chest pain at least once a week. Despite treatment options, many patients report limited enjoyment of life due to the symptom.
Researchers aim to discover proteins that cause MS, a debilitating disease affecting millions worldwide. The nationwide project could lead to effective treatments and cures.
Researchers use GM technique to contain salt in plant parts, reducing damage and increasing tolerance. The technology holds promise for crops like rice, wheat, and barley, improving global food security.
The University of Adelaide's new Centre of Clinical Research Excellence for Oral Health will investigate the interaction between systemic health and oral disease. The centre will focus on improving dental treatments to manage other diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
A comprehensive review of studies on young offenders' health highlights the need for prioritizing mental and physical health for successful rehabilitation. The review found that young offenders often experience poor health due to factors such as substance abuse, trauma, and social disadvantage.
A research team led by Dr Keith Shearwin and Dr Ian Dodd from the University of Adelaide has been awarded a US$900,000 grant to investigate DNA looping. The study aims to understand how correct DNA loops are formed to control gene expression in cells.
University of Adelaide researchers developed a model predicting mosquito population peaks, aiding in disease outbreak prevention by allowing for targeted mosquito control. The study analyzed 15 years of data on Aedes vigilax populations, linking environmental factors to peak timing and magnitude.
A new study reveals the global trade in frog legs is threatening their extinction. The annual global trade has increased over the past 20 years, with at least 200 million frogs consumed every year, according to Associate Professor Corey Bradshaw.
A six-year study found that administering high doses of Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) to pre-term infants through breast milk or formula reduces significantly delayed mental development. Premature girls showed better mental development than boys, but the exact reason for this difference remains unclear.
Ancient DNA and palaeontology researchers analyzed coprolites from giant extinct birds to build a detailed picture of an ecosystem dominated by these species. The findings suggest that some moa grazed on tiny herbs, while others are threatened or rare due to their extinction.
A major international study highlights the need for improved prenatal care in South-East Asian hospitals to prevent neonatal lung disease. Antenatal corticosteroid treatment before preterm birth has been shown to significantly reduce child death and disease.
The University of Adelaide is set to become a global leader in photonics and advanced sensing technologies thanks to a $28.8 million government investment. Researchers will utilize state-of-the-art facilities to develop breakthroughs in various fields, including physics, chemistry, biology, and environmental science.
A potent bacterial toxin targets human cells expressing Neu5Gc, a sugar incorporated from diet, making humans susceptible to disease. Red meat and dairy products are richest dietary sources of Neu5Gc, increasing the risk of E. coli infection.
A large trial found significant improvements in quality of life, sleep and joint pain for post-menopausal women on hormone replacement therapy. Researchers also noted improved sexuality among participants.
A new study from the University of Adelaide found that young people from 10 countries have differing attitudes towards sharing housework and a woman's right to an abortion. Young women are more supportive of domestic democracy, while young men are more likely to want to have their say in abortion decisions.
A new DNA study from the University of Adelaide has challenged long-held claims of pre-historic Polynesian contact with South America. The study found no evidence to support the idea that chickens were introduced to South America by Polynesians before Spanish arrival.
A major international study found that many South-East Asian hospitals still employ worrying health care practices, including improper use of antibiotics and episiotomies. The study aims to improve maternal and newborn health outcomes by identifying gaps in knowledge and implementing evidence-based interventions.
Researchers are gathering genetic samples from 10,000 people across Australia to investigate the possible genetic causes of cerebral palsy. The study aims to identify specific genetic mutations that may lead to the condition, with the goal of developing potential disease preventions and treatments.
Researchers warn of a 'biodiversity tragedy in progress' due to tropical habitat loss, with up to 15 million hectares lost annually. The review calls for an immediate, multi-pronged approach to conserve ecosystems and mitigate human impacts.
A new ecological study identified a correlation between evolved species' traits and susceptibility to becoming threatened or invasive. The researchers analysed over 8900 legume species and found that certain traits are more predictive of a species' fate.
A global mission to address iron deficiency is underway with a focus on increasing iron content in cereal grains like rice and wheat. Dr Alex Johnson's project aims to improve iron delivery from leaves to seeds, benefiting developing countries where iron deficiency affects 30% of the world's population.
A mutated gene has been discovered as the key behind epilepsy and mental retardation specific to women, thanks to new research at the University of Adelaide. The study found that women carry both a 'good' and 'bad' gene, while men only carry the bad gene, leading to the condition affecting only females.
Researchers at the University of Adelaide will study links between brain chemistry and fatal outcomes from brain tumors and strokes. They aim to find out why these conditions become deadly, with a focus on swelling caused by tumors and cancer cells entering the central nervous system.
Researchers have discovered a link between viral infection, particularly from the herpes group, and pregnancy-induced hypertensive disease and pre-term birth. The study found viral nucleic acid in heel-prick blood samples of 1326 newborn babies, including over 400 with cerebral palsy.
Scientists at the University of Adelaide are developing new vaccines and treatments to combat hepatitis C, a virus affecting over 170 million people worldwide. The five-year project aims to identify antiviral proteins and improve treatment options, offering hope for those suffering from the disease.
Researchers identified duplicated genes HSD17B10 and HUWE1 as the trigger for intellectual disability. The study found that these genes produce excess protein, leading to mental retardation in individuals with X chromosome-linked mutations.
A team of Australian researchers has received a five-year grant from the National Institute of Child Health and Development to investigate how environmental stress affects embryonic development. The study aims to understand the long-term health implications for children conceived during poor maternal health or adverse lifestyle choices.
Researchers studying the common Australian gecko Christinus marmoratus have found a protein growth factor that contributes to its ability to quickly regenerate its tail after losing it. This discovery is encouraging for treating human lymphoedema, but more research is needed.
A recent study found that Australians now spend significantly more on unproven therapies compared to prescribed pharmaceuticals, with a notable increase in the use of alternative treatments and consultations. This trend is concerning, as many alternative medicines have not been rigorously tested or proven safe.
Researchers have developed a new liver cancer treatment using electrolysis, which destroys tumors and surrounding tissue with minimal impact on healthy liver cells. The technique has shown promising results in an ongoing trial, with eight out of ten patients showing no evidence of residual tumor.
A koala scoliosis study reveals that the condition takes different forms in marsupials compared to humans. The research, conducted by Emily Milbourne, aims to describe the normal anatomy of koalas and investigate the causes of scoliotic animals.