Coral mass spawning events are becoming more frequent, allowing corals to spread their offspring across different reefs. This phenomenon improves the Great Barrier Reef's resilience and increases its recovery potential.
A University of Queensland study found that environmental defenders are being killed at an alarming rate due to conflict over natural resources. The research highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability from corporations and governments in protecting these defenders.
The study reveals that Tau controls Fyn nanoclustering in dendrites, leading to altered nerve signals and synapse dysfunction. Single molecule imaging provides unprecedented insights into the organisation of key proteins in living brain cells.
A new study investigates the bioenergetics of sharks and rays, revealing how climate change affects their populations. The research suggests that these ocean giants will face compounding climate pressures, including warmer oceans and reduced prey availability.
A University of Queensland study found that some young children are spending an average of 50 minutes per day on screens, exceeding the national guideline of zero screen time in children under two. The guidelines aim to provide a healthy start for children and limit screen time to promote development and growth.
A collaborative research project analyzing over 400,000 individuals identified several sets of genes marked across all five psychiatric disorders. These genes play a role in the same biological pathway or are active in the same tissue type, increasing risk for multiple disorders.
A new study by University of Queensland researchers found that patients' physical health is often overlooked in pursuit of treating mental illness. Conditions like diabetes serve as a stark example, with rates twice as high in those with mental illness compared to the general population.
A joint Australian-Indian study has identified a new genetic variation associated with schizophrenia, found in over 3000 individuals. The research highlights the importance of studying diverse populations to understand the complex causes of the disease.
A University of Queensland researcher calls for the PBS to update its restrictions on anti-epileptic drugs to ensure safe and up-to-date clinical practice. The current system fosters outdated prescribing practice and suboptimal care.
A new diagnostic test has the potential to determine if breast cancer patients require chemotherapy, giving them control over their treatment. The test uses gene profiling to identify low-risk patients who may not benefit from chemotherapy.
A University of Queensland study confirms a 70-year-old theory on fluid turbulence, which causes inefficiency in transporting fluids through pipes and affects ship movements. The research uses ultra-cold atom systems to control and measure the phenomenon.
A University of Queensland researcher has identified a potential solution to improve skier safety on snow-covered slopes by modifying the grooming patterns used at ski resorts. By altering the size and spacing of these patterns, visibility can be improved in cloudy conditions, reducing the risk of accidents.
A new study debunks the myth that intensive breeding has made modern wheat cultivars weaker. Modern wheat varieties actually out-perform older ones in both optimal and sub-optimum growing conditions. This finding could have significant implications for raising productivity in organic cropping systems.
A team of researchers at the University of Queensland has challenged the long-held theory that multi-celled animals evolved from a single-celled ancestor resembling a modern sponge cell. Using new technology, they found that the first multicellular animals were more like a collection of convertible cells, contradicting years of tradition.
Research finds that global conflicts lead to high mental health disorders, affecting one in five people with severe anxiety and depression rates being five times higher than the rest of the world. The study highlights the impact of trauma, instability, poverty, and lack of access to healthcare on mental well-being.
A recent study found that regulatory bodies in Australia are not seeking to blame doctors for patient deaths when opioids are administered, alleviating fears of professional ruin. Doctors should prescribe minimum doses to alleviate suffering and respect clinical practice.
Researchers used single-cell RNA sequencing to identify genes expressed by each cell in the aorta, grouping them into separate populations based on gene expression profiles. This allowed for accurate distinction between stem cells and other blood vessel cells, providing key insights into their identity.
Researchers at University of Queensland developed a light beam device that can split light into multiple modes, increasing information density and potential for faster internet speeds. The device has applications in medical imaging, astronomy, and communication, enabling higher-quality images with greater detail.
Researchers at University of Queensland discover a way to stop inflammation by inhibiting the inflammasome protein complex. This breakthrough could lead to the design of new anti-inflammatory drugs, informing treatment for chronic inflammatory diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.
Researchers are using genomic data to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying the symbiotic relationship between coral and algae. They aim to identify genes that enhance resilience in algae and help corals adapt to environmental shifts caused by climate change.
Researchers discovered that deep-sea fish can see color in the dark by examining the genomes of 101 species. This ability may have evolved as a survival weapon to quickly detect predators or prey in low-light conditions.
A large-scale international collaboration has identified 190 genetic links to birth weight, with two-thirds discovered for the first time. Research found that a baby's genes play a substantial role in determining their birth weight, while also influencing factors in their intrauterine environment.
Researchers from The University of Queensland and Swansea University have found that environmental conditions play a key role in animal-to-human disease transfer. This new understanding could help predict the spread of emerging infectious diseases and prepare for future outbreaks.
A new international protected area target is necessary to effectively conserve biodiversity, according to a study published in Science. The current target has led to perverse outcomes, with nations unable to account for real progress.
Researchers tracked grass pollen for seasonal variations and found it was released into the atmosphere later in areas further from the equator. The study aims to create a unique profile of each grass pollen species to determine the most harmful strains.
A team of scientists has developed a dynamic model that predicts which photosynthetic manipulations will boost wheat and sorghum crop yields. The study found that enhancing photosynthesis can increase or decrease crop yield depending on environmental conditions.
Researchers at The University of Queensland have created a new animal model of schizophrenia that specifically targets elevated dopamine levels in the dorsal striatum. This model enables scientists to test potential therapeutics and explore the basic changes in brain circuitry that contribute to the disease.
Scientists have discovered two Zika mutations that help the virus replicate in mosquito hosts but hinder its ability to replicate in mammals. This breakthrough technique allows researchers to fast-track vaccine development, potentially leading to effective treatments for birth defects caused by the virus.
A team of Australian and US researchers has identified a potential therapeutic drug target for aggressive breast cancers. The Oncomix method enabled them to 'zoom in' on genetic information from cancer patients and identify genes with distinct activity patterns, revealing five genes that promote tumour growth.
Researchers discovered zinc's role in fighting UTI bacteria, identifying its toxic effects on UPEC cells and potential avenues for non-antibiotic treatment strategies. This knowledge could lead to new therapies that don't develop resistance like traditional antibiotics.
Researchers have identified a matrix of 12 risk categories that consider environmental, social, governance and mineralogical factors affecting the viability and accessibility of complex copper orebodies. The study found that 75% of undeveloped copper orebodies face environmental, social and governance challenges.
A University of Queensland-led study reveals how quickly magma moves to the surface, providing a better understanding of volcanic systems. The research also sheds light on the internal 'plumbing' of volcanoes, improving frameworks for monitoring eruptions and unrest.
Researchers discovered a DNA modification that enhances fear extinction, enabling the brain to rapidly adapt to changing conditions. They found adenosine modifications in neurons involved in fear extinction, which increase levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and promote new non-fearful memories.
Research at University of Queensland suggests a connection between vitamin D levels and brain structure, finding that low levels disrupt perineuronal nets in the hippocampus. This disruption leads to reduced cognitive function and potentially contributes to disorders like depression and schizophrenia.
Researchers at University of Queensland found that corals from the 'twilight zone' can grow faster in shallow light environments, offering a potential solution to preserving coral habitats. The study suggests that mesophotic corals can thrive with limited light, challenging current views of these deep-water ecosystems.
The Threatened Species Recovery Hub has identified the top 100 Australian plant species facing extinction, with ground orchids topping the list. Urbanization, inappropriate fire regimes and introduced plant diseases are major drivers of these extinctions, highlighting the need for urgent conservation efforts to save these unique species.
A University of Queensland-led study found that environmental legislation is failing to protect the southern black-throated finch's habitat, leading to a steep decline in its population. The research highlights the need to halt the decline of this bird's habitat to prevent extinction.
Researchers at the University of Queensland found that 94 species of animals in Australia's forests and woodlands attack bird nests. The top five nest predators were the pied currawong, square-tailed kite, tiger snake, laughing kookaburra, and grey strike-thrush, attacking prey from 40% of measured species.
A recent study of 5.9 million individuals found that the risk of developing a second mental health disorder is increased, even 15 years after an initial diagnosis. Younger people are significantly more at risk of developing multiple mental health disorders over time.
Researchers at the University of Queensland have discovered a new class of blood pressure-regulating peptides in vampire bat venom that could revolutionize treatments for various medical conditions. The peptides are selective in their mode of action, reducing side effects compared to existing therapies.
Researchers at the University of Queensland have developed an ultra-sensitive ultrasound sensor on a silicon chip, revolutionizing medical devices and unmanned vehicle navigation. The technology can detect miniscule forces from surrounding air molecules, opening doors to new biomedical imaging and biological system understanding.
Researchers discovered a key brain mechanism that underlies our ability to rapidly focus attention. The cholinergic system plays a crucial role in triggering desynchronization of neurons, allowing individual neurons to respond to sensory information differently. This allows us to focus on specific stimuli while ignoring distractions.
A recent study published by University of Queensland researchers sheds light on the responses of various species to major climate events. The research found that extreme weather events such as cyclones, droughts, and floods are causing unpredictable changes to ecosystems, leading to population declines and local extinctions.
Researchers used AI and satellite imagery to map the world's intertidal zones for the first time, revealing a significant loss of crucial ecosystems. The study exposed coastal communities to increased risk from storms and sea level rises, with over 1.4 billion people expected to live in coastal areas by 2060.
A Genetic Data Protection Act is needed to control access to medical genetic data by law enforcement agencies, according to a University of Queensland analysis. The researchers warn that current laws do not fit well with genetic data, putting vulnerable individuals and their descendants at risk.
Historical records of shark catches in Queensland show a 50-year decline, with large apex sharks decreasing by 74-92%. The average size of sharks has also decreased.
Researchers discovered that a drug initially developed for Alzheimer's disease has antibacterial properties, potentially breaking antibiotic resistance in bacteria. The findings suggest the drug could be repurposed to treat infectious diseases.
New research highlights invasive species as the top threat to Australian biodiversity, affecting 82% of threatened species, while habitat changes impact 74%. The Threatened Species Recovery Hub and Centre for Invasive Species Solutions warn of an extinction crisis without innovative management options.
A study by researchers at the University of Queensland found that newborns with vitamin D deficiency had a 44% increased risk of being diagnosed with schizophrenia as adults. Ensuring pregnant women have adequate levels of vitamin D may result in the prevention of some schizophrenia cases.
A unique nano-scaled DNA signature common to all cancers has been discovered, allowing for rapid detection from various tissues. This breakthrough technology uses gold nanoparticles to detect cancer DNA fragments and could lead to point-of-care diagnostics.