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University of Adelaide


Theory of the evolution of sexes tested with algae

A University of Adelaide researcher tested a theory on the evolution of sexes in algae, finding that the classic Disruptive Selection Theory is supported. The study used data from various species of green algae and found that the ratio of larger gametes to smaller ones must be greater than three for males and females to evolve stably.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalEcology and Evolution·DateNov 29, 2017

Scientists unveil the water buffalo genome

The publication of the buffalo genome provides essential reference point for studies on molecular genetics, helping breeders enhance desirable characteristics and researchers preserve diversity. A molecular tool, Buffalo SNP chip, has been developed to apply modern molecular breeding systems to water buffalo.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalGigaScience·DateOct 27, 2017

New med-tech zinc sensor developed

A new zinc sensor has been developed by researchers at the University of Adelaide, enabling real-time detection and measurement of zinc levels in cells. The sensor's innovative design allows for continuous or repeated measurements within a single biological sample, opening up new possibilities for diagnostic tools.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalACS Omega·DateSep 29, 2017

Ancient wetlands offer window into climate change

Researchers have uncovered a wealth of information about ancient wetlands on North Stradbroke Island, which offer never-before-seen insights into climate change since the last ice age. The discovery provides a unique window into past climate and environments, shedding light on how plants and animals survived in a dry climate.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalJournal of Quaternary Science·DateSep 11, 2017

Parents have critical role in preventing teen drinking

A recent study found that parents have a significant impact on their teenagers' decisions regarding alcohol, with parental behavior and attitudes being key factors in preventing or delaying underage drinking. The study suggests that parents should discuss alcohol use with their children, set clear expectations, and avoid binge drinking.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalBMC Public Health·DateJul 20, 2017

Australian origin likely for iconic New Zealand tree

New fossil research from the University of Adelaide suggests that the ancestors of the iconic New Zealand Christmas Tree, P?hutukawa, may have originated in Australia. The fossils, found near St Helens, East Coast Tasmania, date back to around 25 million years ago and describe two new species of Metrosideros.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·DateJun 22, 2017

New catalyst paves way for carbon neutral fuel

Researchers have developed an efficient catalyst that converts CO2 from the air into synthetic natural gas in a 'clean' process using solar energy. The catalyst produces almost pure methane without side products and operates at mild temperatures, making it viable for industrial activities.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateJun 21, 2017

100-year-old fertility technique reduces need for IVF

A 100-year-old medical technique, hysterosalpingography (HSG), has been proven to increase fertility rates in infertile women. Using an iodised poppy seed oil solution significantly improves pregnancy rates within six months, with 40% of women achieving successful pregnancies compared to 29% with water-based solution.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 18, 2017

Designing better drugs to treat type 2 diabetes

Two studies have shown how new potential anti-diabetic drugs interact with their target in the body, reducing blood sugar by increasing sensitivity to insulin and changing metabolism of fat and sugar. Researchers are now designing modified drugs that will work even more efficiently.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateMay 17, 2017

Ocean warming to cancel increased CO2-driven productivity

Researchers found that high CO2 levels boost production at different levels of the food web, but ocean warming causes stress to marine animals, preventing them from efficiently using increased resources. This led to a collapse of the food web. The study suggests that ocean warming will be an overwhelming stressor for marine ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateApr 27, 2017

Megafaunal extinctions driven by too much moisture

Research reveals that major increases in environmental moisture caused widespread glacial-age grasslands to be replaced by peatlands and bogs, fragmenting populations of large herbivore grazers. The study found distinctive biochemical signals reflecting massive increases of moisture on the landscape.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateApr 18, 2017

Evolving 'lovesick' organisms found survival in sex

A new theory suggests that sexual reproduction evolved as a way to resist disease-causing microbes and adapt to constantly changing environments. Researchers used computer simulations to demonstrate the benefits of sex in nematode worms co-evolving with a highly pathogenic bacterium, providing evidence for the Red Queen theory.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalJournal of Evolutionary Biology·DateMar 27, 2017

Microbes measure ecological restoration success

Researchers at the University of Adelaide have developed a new method to monitor soil microbes, which could boost the success of ecological restoration projects. By analyzing the DNA of bacteria in soil samples, scientists found that native plant revegetation can restore a natural state to cleared land just eight years after implementa...

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateMar 14, 2017

Aboriginal hair shows 50,000 years connection to country

A study published in Nature found that Aboriginal populations have been continuously present in the same regions for up to 50,000 years, supporting their cultural connection to country. The research analyzed mitochondrial DNA from hair samples collected during anthropological expeditions across Australia and revealed a single founding ...

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNature·DateMar 8, 2017

Dental plaque DNA shows Neandertals used 'aspirin'

A team of international researchers analyzed dental plaque from four Neandertals, revealing a complex picture of their behavior, diet, and evolutionary history. The study found that Neandertals had a good knowledge of medicinal plants and used them to self-medicate, including the use of poplar trees for pain relief.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNature·DateMar 8, 2017

Risk of Ross River Virus global epidemic

A new study suggests that the virus may have been circulating silently in the South Pacific since a large epidemic in 1979-80. Researchers found that many people born after the epidemic had antibodies to the virus, indicating local transmission.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalInternational Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateFeb 21, 2017

GM foods: Why presenting 'just the facts' won't work

A new study from the University of Adelaide found that women's attitudes towards genetically modified (GM) foods are influenced by multiple factors, including science background and values. Women with scientific backgrounds used evidence to support their stance, but others saw 'unknown' risks, leading to a lack of trust in science.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNew Genetics and Society·DateFeb 15, 2017

Lap band surgery benefits very obese adolescents

A new study found that lap band surgery significantly improves weight and BMI in severely obese Australian teenagers, with median BMI reduction of 10 kg/m2. The procedure is a safe and effective option for adolescents with severe obesity, provided performed by an experienced surgeon and managed regularly.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalObesity Surgery·DateJan 18, 2017