The Otago Global Health Institute is investing in new research initiatives with the Fiji National University and the National University of East Timor. The collaborations aim to lay the foundation for long-term research collaborations and tackle health issues such as antibiotic-resistant bacteria, non-communicable diseases, and HIV.
A new study found substantial variation in how languages conceptualize emotions across thousands of languages, with patterns emerging from colexification. Language families in close geographic proximity share more similar views on emotion than distant ones, highlighting the importance of culture and common ancestry.
A new study will investigate the relationship between religion, family size, and child health across multiple cultures. The research aims to understand why children born to religious parents tend to thrive despite initial predictions suggesting they would perform poorly.
A bioarcheologist excavated a medieval Uzbek cemetery, discovering evidence of degenerative joint disease and healed fractures that suggest a heavy workload and level of care within the community. The dig site provides insight into how people adapted to harsh desert environments and interacted with other communities along trade routes.
The study found Samoan villagers have developed a pragmatic and positive approach to impending climate changes, diversifying food and water sources, being geographically mobile, and strengthening social networks.
A recent study found that tongue-tie procedures in babies can lead to respiratory events, bleeding, weight loss, and poor feeding. The researchers estimate that about 20 out of every 100,000 babies born will suffer a complication related to the procedure.
A team of University of Otago researchers is part of a major new vaccine research project to combat invasive non-typhoidal salmonellosis, a major killer of African children. The Vacc-iNTS project aims to develop an effective vaccine with a five-year budget of NZ$11.8 million.
A new University of Otago study found that people have varying levels of knowledge about food energy and portion sizes. Inaccurate judgements about these factors can result in overeating and subsequent weight issues. To combat this, the researchers suggest providing more explicit and salient energy labels on food packages.
Researchers discovered that supernatural beings are attractive due to mind-based abilities, ambiguity, and the potential for eliciting both love and fear. This finding has implications for understanding the psychology of belief and devotion in religious contexts.
A research project from the University of Otago is developing a ryegrass variety that can be induced to flower for seed production under artificial conditions. This could lead to more productive and efficient farming, increasing productivity and reducing land use while minimizing environmental impact.
A University of Otago study confirms the low FODMAP diet is effective in alleviating bowel symptoms in children. Complete resolution was observed in 92% of children with bloating, 87% with diarrhoea and 77% with abdominal pain.
An international study has investigated the extinction of two New Zealand songbirds, revealing that habitat loss and introduced mammalian predators were key factors. The research, published in Biology Letters, used ancient DNA to reconstruct the birds' population history, indicating a rapid decline prior to their extinction.
A breakthrough in monkey malaria research by University of Otago scientists could help diagnose and treat a relapsing form of human malaria. The team has developed an in vitro culture method for the vivax malaria parasite, which is closely related to the relapsing parasite.
Researchers found that fish preserve 'DNA methylation' memories between generations, unlike humans where this is almost entirely erased. This discovery opens up new avenues for studying intergenerational memory transfer through DNA methylation.
Researchers from the University of Otago propose a more nuanced approach to gender divisions in elite sports, considering principles of inclusion and fairness. They suggest alternatives to current guidelines, including options for transwomen's participation, to balance diversity and fair competition.
A recent study found that incorporating physical activity into daily life through walking and cycling can significantly improve population health. The research estimates health gains ranging from 1.61 to 25.43 QALYs per 1000 people, with healthcare cost savings up to $2.1 billion over the remaining lifespan.
A global research study led by the University of Otago in New Zealand identified eight genetic variants significantly associated with anorexia nervosa. The findings suggest a metabolic basis to the disease, linking it to traits such as body mass index and physical activity levels.
A University of Otago-led study has discovered the genetic mechanisms behind sex change in fish, revealing a complete rewiring of the gonad and changes in cellular memory. The research has implications for understanding human sex development and potential applications in tissue engineering and aquaculture.
New Zealand and Australian researchers have observed a 70-year-old prediction about superfluids, which may have implications for understanding quark-gluon plasmas and electrons in solids. The team created a superfluid using optical manipulation technology and precisely stirred vortices into the fluid.
A 10% tax on sugary drinks has cut purchases and consumption by an average of 10%, according to a major review. The review analyzed data from four US cities and two European regions, finding that taxes resulted in decreased sales and purchasing of taxed beverages.
New Zealanders consider cigarette butts toxic to the environment, holding smokers primarily responsible. Researchers recommend increasing awareness of tobacco companies' role in creating tobacco product waste to foster political support for producer responsibility measures.
Researchers found almost 60% of patients were over 65, and nearly a third lived in socio-economically deprived areas. The study also revealed high rates of the disease in regions with previously low numbers of cases, including Canterbury and Hawkes Bay.
Research found that three months of high-intensity interval training improved heart function in adults with type 2 diabetes without medication changes. High-intensity exercise reversed some changes in heart function that precede diabetic heart disease.
A University of Otago study found that acts of civic engagement, such as volunteering and helping a neighbor, buffer people from adversity and promote well-being. These simple acts of kindness not only benefited victims but also strengthened the well-being and resilience of those giving them.
Bioethicists investigate body donation after medically-assisted death, highlighting ethical challenges for institutions and potential benefits for education and research.
Researchers at the University of Otago successfully interact two individual atoms in a controlled setting, showcasing potential for new quantum technologies. This achievement represents a significant step towards creating robust entanglement technology.
Researchers from Otago Global Health Institute aim to increase TB notifications in Indonesia by implementing an electronic referral system and educating private healthcare providers. The study, funded by $650,000, will shed light on the issue of unreported TB cases and its impact on global health.
Researchers at the University of Otago and Indian Statistical Institute have discovered distinct epigenetic markers in oral cancer tissues that are associated with patient survival. The findings, published in the journal Epigenomics, could help save thousands of lives by identifying cancer cells early.
A study highlights the severe negative health consequences of low energy availability in female athletes, including hormonal imbalances and reproductive issues. Researchers emphasize the need for coaches, parents, and athletes to be aware of signs of low energy intakes and seek advice where needed.
University of Otago scientists have developed a method to analyze the diversity of immune cells within bowel cancer tumours. This breakthrough could lead to more targeted treatments and improved patient outcomes.
A University of Otago study reveals that structured play can help toddlers develop essential self-regulation skills, leading to improved behavior and life outcomes. The ENGAGE program, involving simple games and activities, was found to be equally effective as the Positive Parenting Programme in managing children's behavior.
A global moratorium on heritable genome editing is proposed by a group of international scientists and ethicists due to safety concerns and the need for societal consensus. The proposal aims to establish an international framework and provide time for public discussions before germline editing is permitted.
Researchers sequenced mitochondrial genomes to understand penguin evolution, revealing two new extinct species on the Chatham Islands. The discovery sheds light on how humans impacted New Zealand's marine biodiversity in the past.
A study by Otago researcher Dr Carolina Loch and colleagues has shed new light on the evolution of modern baleen whales' ancestors, revealing complex enamel structures in their teeth. The research suggests that these ancestral whales had a mix of mammalian and whale-like characteristics.
Researchers at University of Otago have discovered that bacteria can use 'slipped spacers' to boost their immunity against viruses, which may hold promise for biotechnology applications and alternative treatments for infectious diseases. This finding could also impact the dairy industry by preventing bacterial resistance to phages.
Otago researchers found a genetic factor, PLEKHG6, that drives unique aspects of brain development in primates and humans. This discovery could lead to better understanding of brain building and repair strategies.
Researchers at the University of Otago have discovered blocking oxytocin cells in the brain after a heart attack can improve survival outcomes. The breakthrough could lead to a new pharmacological drug targeting these cells, potentially improving cardiovascular patient outcomes.
A New Zealand study suggests that sugary drinks contribute to an obesogenic environment, leading people to make unhealthy food choices. The researchers recommend implementing a sugar tax to encourage industry reformulation and individual responsibility for healthy consumption.
Researchers found that reducing overall alcohol consumption can lead to fewer people developing an alcohol disorder. The study also showed that men are at greater risk of developing a disorder and are less likely to quit.
Researchers have used high-resolution electron microscopy to reveal how an anti-cancer virus interacts with tumor cells, increasing its potential. The Seneca Valley Virus selectively targets a receptor found in over 60% of human cancers, offering a promising approach for cancer treatment.
Research from the University of Otago suggests that flavored capsule cigarettes make smoked tobacco products more appealing to non-smoking young people. Susceptible non-smokers prefer flavoured capsules over unflavoured cigarettes, viewing them as smoother and more fun to smoke.
Researchers discovered that 80% of adult remains showed evidence of tooth decay and over half were missing teeth. The study found pipe smoking marks on many of the skeletons, suggesting that smoking was a major contributing factor to poor oral health in this population.
University of Otago researchers have discovered a way to culture cynomolgi malaria parasites, which are almost identical to vivax malaria. This breakthrough could help eliminate the relapsing form of human malaria, a major public health concern worldwide.
Scientists have solved the structure of two proteins that control DNA packaging, potentially providing insights into why some people are at risk of developing specific cancers. The findings also shed light on how these proteins' mutations contribute to various types of cancer, including mesothelioma and leukemia.
A study examining prescription medicines in New Zealand children found significant increases in antibiotic and pain relief use, but also decreases in systemic antibiotics. The research highlights the importance of educational campaigns and monitoring to ensure safe prescribing practices.
Research conducted by the University of Otago has found that New Zealand teenagers are less physically active and fit compared to previous generations. The study measured fitness using an exercise cycle test on 343 children aged 15, revealing a decline in fitness levels over time.
New Zealand research found that infants on proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are not at higher risk of pneumonia or lower respiratory tract infections. The study of over 21,000 infants dispensed PPIs between 2005 and 2012 revealed a relatively low number of serious lung infections among those using the medication.
Researchers from University of Otago identify genetic variant that controls urate levels and gout risk in the gut as well as kidney. This discovery has significant implications for developing new medical interventions in gout and kidney disease.
Researchers found a brief sleep intervention in infancy reduced the risk of childhood obesity, with benefits still apparent at five years old. The study, funded by the Health Research Council of New Zealand, involved over 800 babies and showed that even very young infants can learn to do so relatively quickly.
Researchers at the University of Otago have developed a new approach to achieve centimeter-level precise positioning on smartphones using a combination of signals from four different GNSSs. This technology has the potential to revolutionize applications requiring accurate location information, such as precise car navigation and surveying.