A recent study found that Fiordland penguins travel up to 7,000km in just eight weeks to reach sub-Antarctic waters for food. The authors believe the birds may be following an instinct rather than a need to forage in this region.
A study published in Royal Society Open Science found that Mongrel Mob members had low knowledge of viral hepatitis, leading to risky infection behaviors. The research also identified concerning liver health issues, including high rates of inflammation and damage.
A new international collaborative research study has found that a four-month daily regimen of antibiotic rifampicin is as effective as a nine-month daily regimen of another antibiotic, isoniazid, in preventing people with latent tuberculosis infection from developing the full-blown disease. The study, published in the New England Journ...
Researchers evaluated Stanford University's work on the tiny mummified body, concluding genetic abnormalities could explain perceived abnormalities. However, Otago-led experts found no evidence for these anomalies, revealing normal skeletal development in a fetus.
New research reveals kelp from Kerguelen Islands drifted 20,000km to Antarctica, highlighting potential for drifting plastics to reach the continent. The study also suggests new species can colonize Antarctica as climate warms, challenging previous notion of its biologically isolated ecosystem.
Professor Stephen Robertson's research team identified the cause of Recessive Spondylocarpotarsal Synostosis Syndrome, a condition resulting in bone fusion. Genome sequencing revealed multiple genes implicated in the disorder, offering diagnostic and therapeutic options.
New Zealand scientists have developed a revolutionary 3D colour medical scanner that provides far greater detail of the body's chemical components. The MARS spectral x-ray scanner will revolutionise medical imaging globally, enabling more accurate diagnosis and personalisation of treatment for diseases like cancer and heart disease.
Researchers at University of Otago have discovered a novel property of Bedaquiline, a new anti-tuberculosis drug that could help develop more effective treatments for tuberculosis. The study's findings suggest that the drug works by disrupting energy generation in Mycobacterium tuberculosis cells, offering potential for designing more ...
Researchers discover DNA methylation marker that influences PD-L1 expression on cancer cells, shedding light on why new therapies don't work for some patients. The findings suggest epigenetic therapies could be used in combination with immunotherapy to treat melanoma patients.
Researchers at the University of Otago are testing Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) processing equipment for large-scale French fry production. The technology enhances processing by altering potato microstructure, reducing oil uptake and waste, while increasing durability and yield of other food products.
Researchers found contaminated surface water and unwashed produce are primary sources of transmission, while improved sanitation can significantly reduce the disease. In Fiji, people with poor sanitation facilities or damaged sewerage systems are at higher risk of contracting typhoid fever.
Researchers have discovered that exposure to cattle and rice farming are risk factors for the devastating disease leptospirosis in northern Tanzania. Cattle and work in rice fields are associated with acute leptospirosis, suggesting that controlling Leptospira infection in livestock could play a role in preventing human infection.
A 2.5 metre-deep excavation at Eastland Port uncovered moa bones and stone tools made of obsidian and chert, dating back to the early 1300s.
A University of Otago study found that New Zealanders with dementia and older men have poorer oral health, with dirtier and more decayed teeth. The researchers emphasize the need for improved oral care in aged residential care, citing higher rates of cognitive and physical impairments as a major challenge.
A 34-million-year-old fossil discovery in Antarctica has provided significant insights into the evolution of baleen whales. The ancient whale, Llanocetus denticrenatus, had well-developed teeth and gums instead of baleen, suggesting a transition from biting to filter feeding occurred over time.
University of Otago researchers identify and name a new genus of extinct baleen whale from New Zealand's Hakataramea Valley, dating back 27.5 million years. The Toipahautea waitaki was found with diagnostic earbones preserved, suggesting it fed like modern-day minke whales.
A study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that consuming raw fruit and vegetables is associated with lower levels of mental illness symptomology and improved psychological wellbeing. The top 10 raw foods related to better mental health include carrots, bananas, apples, and dark leafy greens.
Researchers have discovered a novel luciferin chemical in New Zealand glowworms that produces light through an entirely new chemical reaction. This unique chemistry may be used in laboratory experiments to monitor cancer cells or identify infectious diseases.
A new study reveals that commercial fishing is a major cause of New Zealand sea lion decline, contrary to government assumptions. The research found that sea-lion exclusion devices have not effectively reduced bycatch, and instead may be hiding deaths or causing injury.
Researchers found that every captive orca examined had damaged teeth, with over 65% displaying moderate to extreme tooth wear. The study suggests that daily flushing of chemicals can lead to chronic antibiotic therapy compromising the whale's immune system. The findings raise serious concerns for the health and welfare of captive orcas.
The Bacterial Energetics and Antimicrobial Resistance Group, led by Professor Greg Cook, has been recognized for its outstanding research on fighting TB infections. The team's work on developing a revolutionary class of antibiotics and innovative approaches to agricultural applications has shown great promise.
Researchers found that signalling by prolactin to its receptors is essential for mothers to show vital maternal nurturing behaviour towards their young. This discovery may explain why some animal species abandon their young and highlights the importance of prolactin in establishing a bond between mother and baby.
Researchers at University of Otago used advanced technology to compare fiber types, finding cotton adsorbs least VOCs, while polyester emits the most odors. Wool shows a mix of high adsorption and low release patterns, highlighting intermolecular forces as key factor.
Researchers at New Zealand's University of Otago have discovered that Natural Killer (NK) cells act as helper cells to start the immune response, patrolling the body to destroy abnormal cells. The NK cells' ability to recognize fragments of tumor cells released into the blood enhances the immune system's recognition of these fragments,...
Researchers analyzed human remains from 40 individuals at a 5000-year-old passage tomb complex, revealing evidence of dismemberment and cremation. The study suggests that the ancient Irish had a complex burial rite involving 'deconstruction' of the body to aid soul transition.
A recent study by the University of Otago found that regular brisk walks and daily longer walks significantly lower levels of fatty acids in office workers' blood. This approach may improve metabolic health outcomes and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and death.
Researchers warn that rising ocean temperatures and human impacts will lead to the decline of Yellow-eyed penguin populations on New Zealand's Otago Peninsula. Urgent coordinated conservation action is needed to build penguins' resilience against climate change.
A new study based on responses from 16,584 New Zealanders found that avid news consumers show increased anger and reduced warmth towards Muslims. The researchers suggest that widespread media representation of Muslims contributes to lower acceptance.
A study found that New Zealand children exposed to high levels of lead in the 1970s and 1980s had lower IQs and social standing by age 38, with effects persisting for decades. The research suggests a significant impact of environmental pollutants on cognitive outcomes.
A study published in PNAS reveals details about Apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1), a signaling protein controlling cellular behavior. The research found unexpected parts of ASK1's structure that help control its activity, shedding new light on disease processes such as Parkinson's and melanoma.
Researchers found pelvic floor muscle training significantly reduced prolapse symptoms in women with early signs of prolapse. The study recommended that women should be advised to undertake pelvic floor muscle training even before experiencing symptoms.
Epigenetic changes in melanoma cells have been identified as key drivers of cancer metastasis. The study, published in Oncotarget, found that these changes can be reversed, making them a potential target for new therapies.
Researchers compared three types of adult stem cells from 14 patients to determine their cardiac repair potential. Right atrial stem cells had the greatest protective effect on heart muscle cells, while ventricular stem cells promoted new blood vessel formation.
Researchers found that engaging in daily creative activities led to increased feelings of enthusiasm and higher 'flourishing' states. The study supports the idea that everyday creativity can cultivate positive psychological functioning.
Researchers discovered that bacteria can gauge population density through quorum sensing and boost their CRISPR-Cas immune systems in response, providing new insight into bacterial collective immunity. This ability enables bacteria to preemptively elevate their immunity when most at risk of a virus spreading.
New research from the University of Otago suggests that walking after meals can significantly lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. The study found that post-meal physical activity can reduce blood sugar levels by up to 22% compared to taking a single 30-minute walk at any time of the day.
A new study surveyed 587 scientists on their attitudes towards social media, revealing that most see benefits in using Twitter for communication and sharing research within the scholarly community. Despite professional benefits, relatively few academic scientists currently use these tools.
Researchers have discovered that HPV16's E7 protein can suppress the body's immune response to the virus. This knowledge could lead to new therapies and ways to block cancer suppression of the immune response.
Bacteria have a flexible immune system called CRISPR-Cas that can remember and destroy invading DNA. A new study reveals how this system selects new memories from mutated threats, proposing a positive feedback loop to reduce the risk of evading defences.
A new study from the University of Otago found that high-dose monthly vitamin D supplements for breastfeeding mothers can significantly increase their babies' vitamin D levels. This is particularly important as exclusive breastfeeding increases the risk of infant vitamin D deficiency, leading to conditions like rickets.
A new system to map the world's biomes has been developed, providing an objective method for monitoring how vegetation reacts as climate changes. The system uses satellite observations to classify the world's vegetation into 24 biome types, revealing substantial shifts in the Earth's surface over the past three decades.
Researchers discovered how queen honeybees control worker bees' fertility through the Notch cell-signalling pathway. The study found that inhibiting Notch signalling can overcome the effect of queen pheromone and promote ovary activity in adult worker bees.
A new study from the University of Otago suggests that childhood exposure to microbial organisms through thumb-sucking and nail-biting reduces the risk of developing allergies. The study found that children who engaged in these habits had lower rates of allergy development compared to those who did not.
Researchers split and collide ultracold atoms to directly observe the Pauli Exclusion Principle, a fundamental constraint on identical particles' behavior. This finding has implications for understanding multiple particle scattering processes.
A research team sequenced the first complete mitochondrial genome of a 2500-year-old Phoenician, revealing rare European haplogroup U5b2cl in North Africa. The findings date the arrival of this haplogroup to at least late sixth century BC.
Infants following baby-led weaning tend to be exclusively breastfed longer and eat meals with their families, which is great for long-term health. However, they have higher fat intakes and lower nutrient levels compared to spoon-fed babies.
A novel nicotine inhaler has been shown to double smoking quit rates compared to placebo inhalers. The study, published in Nicotine and Tobacco Research, suggests that inhaled nicotine from a standard inhaler is highly effective in helping smokers quit.
Research suggests that melanomas from the South Island of New Zealand are more likely to carry gene mutations affecting treatment outcomes. The study found significantly higher rates of NRAS mutations in South Island patients compared to those from the North Island, with implications for targeted drug therapies and patient outcomes.
Researchers used dentistry techniques to analyze fossil and modern teeth, finding similarities between ancient walruses and modern pinnipeds. The findings suggest that the ancient walrus was unlikely to feed on large prey, contradicting previous claims of a 'killer walrus' diet.
Researchers used high-definition video cameras to track strangers forming groups in a covered stadium. They found individuals joined groups with similar physical traits, including levels of attractiveness, and attractive women were more likely to be in the center of social groups.