Researchers found two divergent population trajectories for the Erect-crested penguin, one stable for 25 years and the other declining by 40% in 30 years. The study highlights the importance of reassessing the species' conservation status and protecting its last stronghold.
A major international project, led by the University of Otago, aims to develop vaccines against non-typhoidal Salmonella invasive disease (iNTS), a leading cause of child death in sub-Saharan Africa. The project will collect data to inform the design and planning of phase 3 vaccine trials.
Researchers from the University of Otago have unlocked the molecular mechanisms behind the parasitic mind-control code, revealing how parasites manipulate host behavior at the genetic level. The study used transcriptomic sequencing to decode the genetic crosstalk between the European earwig and the parasitic worm, mermithid nematode.
A new tool allows for genome-wide mutagenesis of bacteriophages, enabling researchers to identify essential and non-essential genes for phage survival. This method enables rapid engineering of phage genomes to improve therapeutic potential, particularly for tackling biofilms and bacterial infections.
Research found that some bird species, such as black swans and gulls, spend more time preening themselves in geothermal areas, suggesting they may be using the sulphurous steam to remove parasites. This behavior is likely an adaptation to help birds cope with disease agents that are carried around the world.
Researchers discovered that major earthquakes can rapidly alter coastline evolution, with Kaikōura's erosion rates more than doubling after the 2016 earthquake. This study provides a rare example of how tectonic events reshape rock coasts, relevant to tectonically active coasts worldwide.
A study published in Science Advances found that prolactin activates a brain pathway that makes time with newborns feel rewarding rather than necessary. This rewiring of the brain's reward system helps explain how mothers' thoughts and feelings change during pregnancy and after birth.
A University of Otago study analyzing 15,000 head acceleration events from community rugby players found significant sex and size biases in injury risk predictions using a one-size-fits-all approach.
Aotearoa New Zealand whitebait can rapidly switch life-cycles in response to environmental changes, adapting to lake conditions and breeding in spring instead of autumn. This adaptation is crucial for survival and has implications for future whitebait aquaculture.
A University of Otago study found that hunger influences food thoughts, making them more vivid and rewarding. This discovery could help understand food cravings, dieting habits, and healthy eating.
New research from the University of Otago has uncovered a specific biomarker in blood plasma associated with Alzheimer's disease. The study found that elevated levels of ptau181 were linked to subjective cognitive concerns, but not objective decline or structural brain integrity measures.
The Dunedin Study successfully completed its age 52 data collection phase with 92% of participants still involved. The study, following the lives of 1,037 babies born in 1972-73, has provided valuable insights into human health and development.
Climate change is linked to an increased risk of strokes and mortality, particularly from extreme heat. The World Stroke Organization emphasizes the need for reducing greenhouse gas emissions to mitigate this threat. Experts recommend promoting clean energy, plant-rich diets, and active transport to reduce stroke risk.
Researchers argue that industries promoting harmful products normalize their consumption through marketing strategies, affecting vulnerable populations. They call for greater regulatory oversight and a renewed emphasis on ethics in marketing education to address the systemic role of marketing in public health and social well-being.
A study by the University of Otago found that medicinal cannabis reduced pelvic pain, improved sleep, and lowered anxiety in patients with endometriosis. The study's results suggest a new treatment option for those affected by this inflammatory condition.
Researchers argue that increasing dietary fibre intakes would deliver greater health benefits than other nutrients, particularly for heart disease and colorectal cancer. Adding 5g of fibre per day to the average New Zealand diet could meet minimum healthy intake requirements.
A new study published in Nature found that contraception and castration increase life expectancy in both males and females. In males, castration extends lifespan, while in females, various forms of sterilization are associated with increased life expectancy due to reduced energetic costs of pregnancy and lactation.
A landmark study found that consuming vitamin C-rich foods like kiwifruit boosts plasma and skin vitamin C levels, improving skin thickness and stimulating renewal. Increasing daily vitamin C intake is recommended to support optimal skin function.
Researchers have created a detailed map of a bacteriophage, a virus that targets and kills harmful bacteria. The study's findings hold promise for developing new therapies to combat antibiotic resistance.
Researchers have discovered a tiny foot bone in New Zealand that belongs to an extinct bird species with potentially unique courtship behaviors. The St Bathans bowerbird, found to be smaller than living species, has been given the name Aevipertidus gracilis.
A team of researchers from the University of Otago has developed algorithms that enable centimetre-level positioning in smartwatches. This breakthrough uses the Google GnssLogger app and combines precise signals from global navigation satellite systems.
161 Otago scientists named among the world's best, with Professor Christine Winterbourn at number 1578 and others in various fields. The recognition highlights the strength of science research at the University, with notable achievements in biology, microbiology, food science, and more.
A new study reveals that firearm-related injuries and deaths in New Zealand result in significant financial costs, including NZ$321 million lost years of life and NZ$28.2 million hospital care costs annually.
A University of Otago study found that most young people don't follow current sleep guidelines, with only a quarter exercising before bed. The research suggests that these recommendations may not be practical or effective in improving sleep.
A University of Otago academic will investigate the bioethics of anatomical skeletal collections in Britain, focusing on their acquisition, curation, and repatriation. She aims to develop socially informed practice guidelines for these collections, promoting more respectful and equitable practices.
A University of Otago study investigated the effects of post-exercise protein supplementation on pre-menopausal women, finding significant gains in strength and lean mass despite no differential IGF-1 response. The results suggest that protein supplementation can still be beneficial for women, particularly if their diet is suboptimal.
A study by University of Otago researchers found that young adults who prioritize good sleep, eat more fruit and vegetables, and stay physically active experience improved well-being. These basic lifestyle behaviours can meaningfully enhance well-being without costly interventions.
A study on three Aotearoa New Zealand crested penguin species reveals tawaki are thriving with strong genetic health, while erect-crested and Eastern rockhopper penguins face uncertain futures. The research highlights the urgent need to address conservation challenges for these subantarctic species.
A new study by the University of Otago warns that electric vehicles will lead to increased winter electricity peaks in Aotearoa. The research shows that charging EVs in winter requires more energy, potentially increasing monthly consumption by up to 30% by 2050.
A new, extinct shelduck species discovered on the Rēkohu Chatham Islands evolved shorter wings and longer leg bones due to its environment. The study found that flying was not energetically efficient in this context, leading to the adoption of more robust leg bones for support.
A study found that most GPs in New Zealand have used AI-scribes to take patient notes, but expressed concerns about accuracy, completeness, and conciseness. Many reported a change in the dynamic of consultations with patients, needing to verbalise physical examination findings and thought processes.
A recent study by University of Otago researchers found that people who adopt sustainable lifestyles and resist consumerism are happier and more satisfied. The commitment to simple living leads to wellbeing through providing opportunities for personal interaction and social connection.
Researchers found that brain cells switch on and off in a steady rhythm, influencing stress hormone release and alertness. This discovery may lead to better understanding of disrupted stress rhythms and mental health.
A study from the University of Otago found that 51 deceased leaders of nuclear-armed countries had multiple serious health issues while in office, including dementia, personality disorders, and depression. This raises concerns over their decision-making abilities while they had access to nuclear weapon launch codes.
Researchers at University of Otago have identified a genetic cause for a rare developmental disorder affecting brain growth and function in children. The study found that a specific change in the CRNKL1 gene is associated with severe microcephaly, pontocerebellar hypoplasia, seizures, and intellectual disability.
Otago researchers have recovered ancient genomes from Papua New Guinea, shedding light on the genetic diversity of pre-colonial coastal communities. The study reveals that cultural groups did not intermarry for some time, suggesting a complex tapestry of different cultures and peoples.
A recent study published in Proceedings of the Royal Society B discovered that sex-changing fish can rapidly assert dominance after a change in social hierarchy. In this species, known as the New Zealand spotty or paketi, dominant behavior emerges within minutes of removing the current dominant fish.
A University of Otago study found that prolactin helps regulate core body temperature during pregnancy, reducing the risk of hyperthermia. This adaptation promotes a safe environment for the fetus and enhances maternal survival and wellbeing.
Researchers have identified a novel inhibitor that can target and turn off a specific efflux pump in Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a key mechanism of antibiotic resistance. This breakthrough has the potential to improve the effectiveness of antibiotics and prevent resistance from emerging.
Researchers have developed a pioneering method that combines atomic force microscopy with artificial intelligence to detect changes in cancer cells at a small scale. This enables more accurate and reliable diagnoses, potentially leading to earlier detection and better treatment outcomes.
A study by the University of Otago found that New Zealand female MPs are experiencing widespread abuse, including death threats, online trolling, and misogyny. The research highlights the need for a multi-faceted response to address the psychosocial impact of harassment on female parliamentarians.
Researchers have discovered that the blood vessels at the back of the eye can show early signs of dementia, including narrower arterioles and thinner retinal nerve fibre layers. This finding offers new hope for early detection and treatment of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.
A University of Otago-led study develops more accurate methods to predict ice sheet and glacier deformation, driven by climate change. The research uses 70 years of data from experiments worldwide, enabling more reliable predictions about future ice-sheet movement.
New Zealand's beaches were once home to elephant seals, a species that has largely disappeared due to climate change and human activity. The study reveals that the animals' dynamic evolutionary history provides insights into how they may be impacted in the future.
Researchers used mitogenome data to discover many species colonized Aotearoa at the start of the Ice Age, likely from Australia. Iconic endemic birds, like Haast's eagle, are actually Ice Age arrivals, not recent immigrants.
Researchers developed a new technique to estimate prey size and energy content from animal-borne camera footage, providing insights into predator-prey interactions and foraging strategies. This study on Humboldt, King and Tawaki/Fiordland penguins sheds light on the feeding behavior of marine wildlife.
Researchers analyzed over 30 years of data to discover key influences on fast ice thickness in McMurdo Sound. They found that storm events, air temperature, and winter wind speed cause annual fluctuations in thickness.
Scientists have created a new epigenetic tool that can estimate months of androgen exposure in animals, such as mice and sheep. The Androgen Clock is a linear model that uses specific DNA regions to measure androgen exposure over time.
A new study reveals rare whitefly insect fossils found in Miocene age crater lake sediments at Hindon Maar, near Dunedin. The fossils, preserved in the position they lived and died, provide evidence of the ecological component of ancient forests on the South Island.
Researchers identified a genetic weakness in drug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis, allowing them to develop targeted drugs. This technology has the potential to combat other drug-resistant pathogens and prevent their spread.