A recent study found that a quarter of Australians have a human-centric relationship with nature and a strong desire to protect the environment. This challenges the stereotype that right-leaning voters care less about taking steps to protect the environment and its biodiversity.
Researchers from the University of Queensland are conducting a three-year project to combat melanoma, focusing on stopping its progression to the brain and investigating its seeding in a neural environment. The team aims to develop new therapies to improve treatment outcomes for affected US troops and Australians.
A new approach to composting in agriculture could improve crop yields, soil health, and divert biowaste from landfills, addressing global food security concerns. The study estimates PCS could boost annual global production of major cereal crops by 96 million tonnes.
Researchers aim to understand why many programs do not deliver on the promise of quality education and highlight examples of effective ones. The study will track 600 Queensland children from early education to school years, informing policy and practice that promotes development and learning.
Researchers have used state-of-the-art technology to study the prehistoric Trilophosuchus rackhami, a tiny crocodile found in north-west Queensland. The analysis reveals distinctive ridges on its skull and brain cavity similarities with distantly related terrestrial extinct crocs from Africa and South America.
A new study suggests that investing $16 billion a year can restore 65% of fire-impacted species habitat and sequester up to 291 megatons of carbon dioxide. The research also highlights the need for urgent removal of invasive species, replanting, and stopping native forest logging.
Researchers at The University of Queensland are working on a new treatment to reduce pain and debilitating side effects from chemotherapy in children. Dr Hana Starobova's research aims to prevent damage from cancer treatments, reducing the impact on children's quality of life. By studying Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, the team hopes t...
Researchers used 3D modeling and engineering to digitally reconstruct the function of foot bones in sauropods, discovering a soft tissue pad beneath the heel that cushioned the foot to absorb weight. This finding confirms a long-suspected idea and provides biomechanical evidence for how sauropods supported their enormous weight on land.
A University of Queensland-led research found that children's noses have a more effective anti-viral response to ancestral SARS-CoV-2 than adult noses. The study suggests that this may contribute to the lower infection rates and milder symptoms in children compared to adults.
A new vaccine patch has been shown to be more effective at neutralizing COVID-19 variants than traditional needle-based vaccines. The patch technology precisely delivers the vaccine into the skin's immune cells, producing superior immune responses.
Researchers at University of Queensland have found that native New Zealand stinging tree toxins activate pain receptors differently than Australian counterparts, offering potential for novel pain medication. The study aimed to understand pain pathways and tackle chronic pain effectively without side effects and addiction.
Researchers found that New Caledonian humpback whales can learn and accurately sing songs from Australian counterparts with remarkable accuracy. This cultural transmission is rare in non-human species and provides insight into the evolution of cultural communication in animals and humans.
Researchers found that moderate coffee consumption during pregnancy does not increase the risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, or premature birth. The study used genetic analysis to mimic a randomized control trial and suggested pregnant women can safely enjoy coffee with limited risk.
Researchers discovered Zophobas morio 'superworms' can survive on polystyrene diet, suggesting they can derive energy from it. The worms' gut microbes are believed to play a crucial role in breaking down the plastic material.
A study by the University of Queensland found that obese patients were up to 17.3 times more likely to undergo a knee replacement than their healthy weight counterparts. Modest weight loss has been shown to effectively reduce knee OA symptoms, suggesting a potential solution to address the growing burden of revision knee replacements.
University of Queensland scientists have discovered a way to make molecular switches work at room temperature, paving the way for more efficient and environmentally friendly technologies. This breakthrough could lead to advancements in MRI scans, sensors, carbon capture, and hydrogen fuel cells.
A new study reveals that red pandas are being driven closer to extinction due to human activities such as infrastructure projects and habitat fragmentation. The research suggests that minimizing human-induced disturbances is crucial for the survival of this species.
Researchers at The University of Queensland have discovered a method to date calcite trapped in ancient ocean floors, which could aid in sourcing critical minerals for electric cars and solar panels. This breakthrough could help meet the growing demand for renewable energy technologies.
A University of Queensland-led study found that millions of COVID-19 patients may have undiagnosed acute kidney injury (AKI), which can lead to serious illness or death. The true AKI diagnosis rates are likely double existing data, highlighting the need for improved detection and management strategies.
A team of Australian scientists has analyzed rare earth elements in drilled reef cores to unveil a deep history of wild weather on the Great Barrier Reef. The study reveals that extreme runoff from intense monsoons affected water quality over 8,000 years ago, leading to reduced coral growth and reef decline.
The Bird Language Diversity app provides a 'birds eye view' of vital information on bird species globally. Researchers found that 1587 species have 10 languages or more spoken within their distributions, highlighting the importance of overcoming language barriers for effective conservation measures.
A molecule essential for regulating nerve repair has been identified, opening up possibilities for developing treatments in humans. The enzyme ADM-4 is crucial for stabilizing the molecular glue needed for nerve fusion.
Researchers at University of Queensland have identified a genetic basis for the increased risk of epithelial ovarian cancer in women with endometriosis. The study found genes that could be targeted to treat both conditions, increasing understanding and treatment options.
Researchers at the University of Queensland discovered a venom molecule in bull ants that targets the echidna's pain pathway, potentially leading to new treatments for long-term pain. The molecule exploits an EGF signalling pathway, similar to those used in anti-cancer therapy.
Research by the University of Queensland found that male livers with hepatic diseases undergo a sex change as part of a self-protective mechanism. The study suggests that this transformation may be driven by the female hormone oestrogen, which helps to slow down disease progression.
Researchers studied vortices in a superfluid, merging into large clusters like cyclones. The results validate Onsager's model, explaining vortex equilibrium and shedding light on turbulent fluid flows.
A framework identifies most vulnerable marine species from climate change, pollution and fishing threats. The research reveals hard creatures like sea urchins are severely affected by these impacts.
A study by the University of Queensland found that strong demand for tropical sea cucumbers as a delicacy is putting these species at risk of extinction. The research highlights the need for regulatory changes to protect the remaining populations and maintain healthy ocean ecosystems.
A University of Queensland-led study reveals that only 15.5% of global coastal areas remain undamaged, exposing the need for concerted efforts to conserve these ecosystems and mitigate climate change impacts.
Researchers have pinpointed a gene in E. coli ST131 that makes it highly resistant to antibiotics, leading to new treatment strategies and improved tracking of emerging resistance. The study aims to create better treatments to stop deadly E. coli infections.
A team of researchers proposes that endothermy in mammals and birds has a common ancestry and is much older than previously accepted. They found evidence of endothermy in early ancestors of modern birds and mammals, including Pelycosaurs and Pareiasaurs.
African and Asian primates evolved stronger resistance to cobras' venoms, while Madagascan Lemurs and Central and South American monkeys lacked this defense due to reduced eyesight
Researchers have developed a novel herbicide delivery system using capsules that drill into invasive weeds, providing a safer and more effective alternative to traditional methods. The system has shown promising results in reducing herbicide usage by 30% while maintaining effectiveness against various weed species.
Atmospheric rivers are predicted to drastically alter Australia's alpine wilderness due to climate change. The phenomenon, characterized by long, narrow regions of high moisture content, is expected to increase extreme and frequent events, leading to severe flash flooding and rapid snowmelt.
A study by the University of Queensland found that COVID-19 pandemic responses must include actions safeguarding biodiversity and ecosystems. The research team advocates for a One Health approach to holistically address outbreaks before they happen.
Climate change has already altered 20% of the Earth's landscapes, and this trend is set to triple under business-as-usual emissions growth. The research found fundamental shifts in life zones, with boundaries shifting poleward and towards higher elevations, affecting tropical and temperate climates.
A genetic model for the 'ultimate' chickpea has been developed using AI, identifying gene combinations that can lift crop yields by up to 12%. The research consortium mapped thousands of chickpea varieties and used AI to predict optimal genetics for seed weight.
Researchers have identified specific bacterial interactions in disease-resistant children that protect against chronic middle ear infections. This discovery could lead to new treatments and preventative measures for Indigenous communities, which are disproportionately affected by the condition.
Researchers at University of Queensland successfully protected mice from COVID-19 using a US-developed vaccine candidate delivered via a pocket-sized, pain-free applicator. The vaccine produced strong immune responses and neutralized multiple variants, including UK and South Africa variants.
Researchers at the University of Queensland have developed a method to produce unbreakable screens using liquid-phase sintering of lead halide perovskites and metal-organic framework glasses. This breakthrough could revolutionize the display industry with virtually indestructible displays.
Researchers from the University of Queensland found that COVID-19 causes cardiovascular complications due to inflammation in infected airway cells. The study clarifies a key debate about the relationship between the virus and blood vessel linings, suggesting inflammation as the primary cause of damage.
A breakthrough oral vaccine candidate has been developed to prevent hookworm infection, which affects half a billion people worldwide. The vaccine triggers a strong immune response and reduces worm numbers by up to 94% in mice trials.
A new online calculator, CoRiCal, has been launched to help people make informed decisions about COVID-19 vaccines. The tool provides personalized risk calculations based on individual circumstances, such as age, sex, and community transmission.
Researchers identified a wide divergence of sex chromosomes in jojoba plants, which could lead to the development of a DNA test to identify male and female plants. The study reveals that male and female jojoba plants have diverged genetically due to environmental stress, with differing reproductive resource allocation requirements.
A University of Queensland study found that people exposed to higher amounts of the insecticide Malathion have a 25% higher risk of kidney dysfunction. Chronic kidney disease is a permanent condition characterized by loss of renal function and is often associated with age, hypertension, and diabetes.
Scientists have discovered radio waves coming from 19 distant red dwarf stars, suggesting the presence of hidden planets. The discovery uses the world's most powerful radio telescope, LOFAR, and indicates a scaled-up version of Jupiter-Io interaction with a planet in the star's magnetic field.
A University of Queensland study found that undiagnosed endometriosis can lead to higher cycle numbers and reduced birth rates among women undergoing fertility treatment. The research highlights the importance of early diagnosis and treatment adjustments to improve fertility outcomes.
A national plan aims to restore habitat on marginal farming land, fighting climate change and preventing species loss while putting money in farmers' pockets. The proposal is estimated to cost $2 billion annually over 30 years but would generate $41 billion in net present value.
A University of Queensland-led study found that nearly 85% of coastal areas leach sediment to coral reefs, a major threat. Reforestation can help by reducing sediment transport, increasing light levels for coral growth and reproduction. Land restoration is crucial for building coral resilience.
A University of Queensland-led study reveals that hot spot volcanoes do not produce 'pristine' magma from the melting mantle but instead filter a different melt to the surface. This new information supports the notion that detection of magma at the crust-mantle boundary could indicate an upcoming eruption.