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University of Sydney


Could mental health apps lead to overdiagnosis?

Research found that popular mental health apps portray mental health as ubiquitous and manageable through self-help apps, potentially leading to overdiagnosis. The study's authors caution that this approach can be problematic, especially for those with severe mental health issues, who may need external support.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJul 9, 2018

Monkeys eat fats and carbs to keep warm

Researchers found that golden snub-nosed monkeys increase their energy intake from fats and carbs in winter to counteract elevated thermoregulatory costs. This adjustment enables the monkeys to balance their macronutrient content and meet specific nutritional needs, suggesting a key adaptation for survival in cold environments.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalFunctional Ecology·DateJun 7, 2018

Walking faster could make you live longer: research

Research from the University of Sydney found that walking at a brisk pace can reduce all-cause mortality by up to 24% and cardiovascular disease mortality by 21%, particularly among older adults. The study suggests that increasing walking speed may be a simple way to improve heart health and reduce premature mortality.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateJun 1, 2018

Prediction method for epileptic seizures developed

Researchers at the University of Sydney have developed a generalized method to predict epileptic seizures using data from non-surgical devices powered by AI and machine learning. The system can alert epilepsy sufferers within 30 minutes of the likelihood of a seizure, with an accuracy rate of up to 81.4%.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNeural Networks·DateMay 29, 2018

Rise and fall of the Great Barrier Reef

A landmark international study found the Great Barrier Reef is more resilient to sea-level rise and temperature changes than thought, but highly sensitive to sediment input and poor water quality. The reef's ability to survive is uncertain due to current stresses and projected future changes.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMay 28, 2018

Discovery for grouping atoms invokes Pasteur

Scientists have discovered a new method for combining atoms into shape-shifting molecules, enabling the creation of novel materials and drugs with unique properties. This breakthrough builds upon past discoveries of isomerism, paving the way for the development of countless new compounds.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Chemistry·DateMay 21, 2018

Global tourism carbon footprint quantified in world first

A comprehensive study by the University of Sydney reveals that global tourism is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, with small islands and luxury travel being key drivers. The research estimates that tourism-related emissions are four times greater than previous estimates and are growing faster than international trade.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMay 7, 2018

Ancient origins of viruses discovered

A new study reveals that many viruses infecting humans today have ancient evolutionary histories dating back to the first vertebrates, with discoveries made in fish and reptiles. The research, a collaboration between several institutions, found 214 novel RNA viruses in healthy animals, including relatives of Ebola and influenza viruses.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature·DateApr 4, 2018

Kids with chronic kidney disease have lower IQs and poorer educational outcomes

Children with chronic kidney disease (CKD) experience deficits in academic skills, visual and verbal memory, and executive function, according to a new study. The analysis of 34 studies found that CKD patients have an average IQ 10 points lower than healthy children, with those on dialysis showing an even greater decline.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateFeb 22, 2018

Quantum 'hack' to unleash computing power

Researchers at the University of Sydney have discovered a 'quantum hack' that improves quantum error correction by up to 400 percent, allowing for more efficient computations. This breakthrough could lead to fewer physical qubits required for basic calculations, making practical quantum computers a reality.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 1, 2018

Parental diet affects offspring immunity: Meta-analysis

A meta-analysis of hundreds of studies found a close relationship between parents' diet and offspring immunity across various animal species. The study suggests that poor nutrition can negatively impact disease resistance and that the effects of a parental diet can be inherited and maintained in offspring even on a normal diet.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalBiological Reviews·DateNov 27, 2017

Storing mine waste -- safety is no accident UN finds

The United Nations report emphasizes the need for mining companies to prioritize safety over economic considerations in managing mine waste. The report's recommendations include improving tailings dam government regulation and exploring alternative solutions to building massive dams that can cause devastating environmental damage.

From quantum physicist to quantum CEO

Q-Ctrl, founded by University of Sydney's Professor Michael Biercuk, aims to provide trusted quantum control solutions for various industries. The company has attracted multimillion-dollar investments and is focused on reducing qubit errors to improve the performance of quantum devices.