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Inherent - Genes, behaviour, and demolishing the nature-nurture boundary
Inherent - Genes, behaviour, and demolishing the nature-nurture boundary
Starts: 5:30 pm
Ends: 01/02/2019 - 6:30 pm
Location: Quad 4 Lecture Theatre, Geology Building, University of Otago, Dunedin
Description: People commonly, but mistakenly, think of genes as dictating our makeup, our physiology and even our actions. Many attempts to explain behavioural patterns use “inherent” differences as an excuse, perhaps particularly when it comes to gender and the way men and women behave. But we can’t point the finger at biology to account for complex gender differences. More information.
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Polar and Alpine Microbiology Conference
Polar and Alpine Microbiology Conference
Starts: 12:00 am
Ends: 08/02/2019 - 11:59 pm
Location: University of Waikato, Hillcrest, Hamilton 3216, New Zealand
Description: Welcome to the first Polar and Alpine Microbiology conference in the Southern Hemisphere. This conference will continue with the tradition of a single session divided into thematic topics related to the exciting research being carried out globally in polar and alpine ecosystems. The conference is organised by The International Centre for Terrestrial Antarctic Research (ICTAR) at the University of Waikato and the local organising committee. The schedule will include four days of oral and poster presentations with a mid-week day off to participate in a number of organised day trips into the heart of New Zealand. Following the conference, we intend to host a series of workshops presenting some of the latest methods and developments in the field. Early-bird registration deadline: 10th December 2018 Conference Website here.
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Counting absolute numbers of molecules using unique molecular identifiers
Counting absolute numbers of molecules using unique molecular identifiers
Starts: 1:00 pm
Ends: 05/02/2019 - 2:00 pm
Location: Mac 1 Biology Building, 5 Symonds St, Auckland
Description: Speaker: Professor Arndt von Haeseler, Scientific Director at Max F. Perutz Laboratories, Vienna Biocenter / Professor of Bioinformatics, University of Vienna/Medical University of Vienna. Counting DNA or RNA molecules using next-generation sequencing (NGS) suffers from amplification biases. Counting unique molecular identifiers (UMIs) instead of reads is still prone to over-estimation due to amplification and sequencing artifacts and under-estimation due to lost molecules. We present an algorithm that corrects for these errors, based on a mechanistic model of the PCR and sequencing process whose parameter have an immediate physical interpretation and are easily estimated. We demonstrate that our algorithm outputs essentially unbiased counts with substantially improved accuracy. More information.
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Lactoferrin for the developing brain: A promising milk protein?
Lactoferrin for the developing brain: A promising milk protein?
Starts: 2:00 pm
Ends: 05/02/2019 - 3:00 pm
Location: CBR Seminar Room 501-505, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland
Description: Preterm infants and growth-restricted newborns are at high-risk of brain injury that can lead to severe neurological disorders, cognitive deficits and psychiatric diseases. There are currently no therapeutic interventions available to protect the brain of these high-risk infants. Hypoxia-Ischemia, inflammation and fetal growth restriction are major triggers of preterm brain damage and altered brain development. Lactoferrin ß (LF) has roles in the iron homeostasis and anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. A role of lactoferrin in brain development and cognition is also suggested. Using different rodent models of developmental brain injuries, we have shown that lactoferrin given through lactation reduces inflammation, neuro-axonal apoptosis, and attenuated macro- and micro-structural alterations. In conclusion, LF given as a supplement during lactation reduces acute and long-term cerebral alterations in chronic and acute developmental brain injury models. LF could play a key role in future neuroprotective strategies to protect the brain of the preterm and growth restricted infants. More information.
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The Stereoscopic 3D language in Argentinean Animated Feature Films since 2010
The Stereoscopic 3D language in Argentinean Animated Feature Films since 2010
Starts: 12:00 pm
Ends: 07/02/2019 - 1:00 pm
Location: Room 103, 81 Fairlie Terrace (FT81/103), Victoria University of Wellington
Description: This research looks at the specific language of Stereoscopic 3D techniques (S3D) in the framework of digital technology. It considers the relationship between aesthetic strategies and the forms of story-telling and representational content in Argentinean animated feature films that were produced and exhibited in 3DS since 2010. Considering that animation as a language has its own rules of design, composition, story-telling and assembly in the broad field of audiovisual disciplines (Saenz Valiente, 2009), this study seeks to systematize how the characteristics of the design, production and distribution processes of S3D were constituted. It contextualizes a practice of designer and aesthetic fact, historically at the beginning of the 21st century and in relation to the conditions established by digital technology that makes it possible to sustain the pipe line of production. More information.
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Electronic brief interventions for unhealthy alcohol use
Electronic brief interventions for unhealthy alcohol use
Starts: 12:00 pm
Ends: 08/02/2019 - 1:00 pm
Location: William James Seminar Room 103, William James Building, 275 Leith Walk, Otago Campus
Description: Internet and mobile phone interventions targeting unhealthy alcohol use have been available for more than 20 years. Enough research has accumulated for the conduct of systematic reviews supporting the overall efficacy of these interventions. This presentation will take a ‘trees in the forest’ approach – discussing the types of interventions available, and the issues with conducting research in this area – to provide a critical overview of current research as well as a discussion of future directions. Examples will be drawn primarily from the presenters’ own research in this area. Professor John Cunningham (PhD, experimental psychology, University of Toronto, 1995) works in the intersection between clinical and population health. His research is driven by the question, “how do people change from addictive behaviours?” To answer this question, John has combined population research methods with clinical and other research traditions. The findings from these studies have been translated into a series of brief interventions for people with unhealthy alcohol use, or other addictions concerns, that can be applied in treatment or community settings. John currently holds a Canada Research Chair in Addictions, is a Senior Scientist at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, and a Professor at the University of Toronto. More information.
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Chemical & Process Engineering 75th Anniversary Event
Chemical & Process Engineering 75th Anniversary Event
Starts: 9:30 am
Ends: 08/02/2019 - 6:30 pm
Location: 48 Creyke Rd, Ilam, Christchurch 8041, New Zealand
Description: 2019 will mark 75 years since the Department of Chemical and Process Engineering first opened its doors. We intend to celebrate this milestone with our alumni on Friday the 8th of February 2019. Over the course of the day we will revisit CAPE's past, explore our curent spaces and activities, and hear from some of our alumni. \ More information
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International Conference on Mindfulness
International Conference on Mindfulness
Starts: 12:00 am
Ends: 13/02/2019 - 11:59 pm
Location: Auckland University of Technology (AUT) Auckland, New Zealand
Description: Here, you will find information about the venue, registration, abstract submission, our keynote speakers, and the programme. Information will be updated regularly as it becomes available. The International Conference on Mindfulness – Asia Pacific (ICM-AP) will bring the ICM conference series to New Zealand. In 2016, ICM was held in Rome, and in July 2018, it will be in Amsterdam (www.cmc-ia.org/icm2018amsterdam). In 2019, we will add a unique South Pacific flavour! We are proud to host our international visitors during the time of the year when Auckland summer weather will present itself at its most magnificent. You will find that the conference has a large variety of topics and presentations to offer. There is a well-established evidence base for the health benefits of mindfulness, and we are now showing how it can be applied in a wide range of situations. Our keynote speakers have been carefully selected to showcase the variety of applications of mindfulness (such as in clinical situations and education), including in the Asia Pacific region. Conference Website here.
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Artificial Intelligence: Is this the end of the world as we know it?
Artificial Intelligence: Is this the end of the world as we know it?
Starts: 5:30 pm
Ends: 11/02/2019 - 6:30 pm
Location: University of Otago, 362 Leith St, North Dunedin, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand
Description: By 2062, experts in artificial intelligence estimate we will have created machines as intelligent as humans. Is this the end or a new beginning? Professor Walsh is a strong advocate for limits to ensure AI is used to improve our lives. He has been a leading voice in the discussion about autonomous weapons (aka "killer robots"), speaking at the UN in New York and Geneva on the topic. He is a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Science and recipient of the NSW Premier's Prize for Excellence in Engineering and ICT. He appears regularly on TV and radio, and has authored two books on AI for a general audience, the most recent entitled 2062: The World that AI Made. For more info, see the University of Otago website.
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Focus on Fibre and Food Monitoring
Focus on Fibre and Food Monitoring
Starts: 12:00 am
Ends: 12/02/2019 - 11:59 pm
Location: Otago Museum, Dunedin
Description: Healthier Lives is pleased to share the details of an upcoming symposium on the role of dietary fibre in preventing and treating non-communicable diseases, and the importance of knowing what New Zealanders eat to inform effective health research and policy.
A line up of distinguished and up-and-coming researchers from New Zealand will be joined by international speakers, Emeritus Professor John Cummings, world expert on dietary fibre, and Tracey Hambridge, of Food Standards Australia New Zealand.
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Globalisation of Recreation and Ageing: Economic and Social Cost of Exclusion
Globalisation of Recreation and Ageing: Economic and Social Cost of Exclusion
Starts: 3:00 pm
Ends: 14/02/2019 - 5:00 pm
Location: University of Auckland, Tamaki Campus, 261 Morrin Rd, St Johns, Auckland 1072, New Zealand
Description: Jerome F. Singleton, PhD, CTRS is a Professor in the Recreation and Leisure Studies Department in the School of Health and Human Performance at Dalhousie University in Nova Scotia, Canada. His research is focused in the area of Leisure and Ageing. He was made a Fellow of the World Demographic Association, named Canadian Therapeutic Recreation Association Professional of the Year and is a founding member of the Leisure and Aging Research Group, which was established in 2008. This free seminar is hosted by the New Zealand Society of Diversional and Recreational Therapists Inc and the School of Population Health. More information
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FinTechNZ & AI Forum NZ
FinTechNZ & AI Forum NZ
Starts: 5:00 pm
Ends: 14/02/2019 - 7:00 pm
Location: Xero Offices, Wellington
Description: Join AI Forum NZ and FinTechNZ at the first joint event of the Tech Alliance 2019 event series, looking at how AI is transforming customer service experience across the financial industry. For AI Forum dates and locations in Auckland and Christchurch, check techalliance.nz.
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Vitamin C for Cancer and Infection
Vitamin C for Cancer and Infection
Starts: 12:00 am
Ends: 16/02/2019 - 11:59 pm
Location: AUT
Description: Symposium – Vitamin C for Cancer and Infection: from Bench to BedsideThere has been an upsurge in new discoveries around the role of vitamin C in cancer and infection. Public awareness and the interest of many health professionals in vitamin C has increased following a number of recent reports of clinical benefit from vitamin C administration and new mechanistic insights are providing rationales for targeted clinical trials. This Symposium brings together the widest group of international experts working in the field of vitamin C, cancer and infectious diseases ever gathered in New Zealand. These comprise respected international research scientists and clinicians conducting clinical trials who will share their latest discoveries in the fields of cancer and infection. More info: http://vitaminc2019.co.nz/
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Commonwealth Ocean Acidification Action Group workshop
Commonwealth Ocean Acidification Action Group workshop
Starts: 12:00 am
Ends: 19/02/2019 - 11:59 pm
Location: University of Otago, 362 Leith St, North Dunedin, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand
Description: The Commonwealth Ocean Acidification Action Group Workshop will bring approximately 45 international experts and Commonwealth marine policy and science officials together to share knowledge and experience to better understand and address the impacts of ocean acidification. Dr Christina McGraw of Otago’s Department of Chemistry, and Chair of the NZOAC Council, says the drop in pH of our oceans (or ‘ocean acidification’) in a relatively short historical timeframe makes the issue one of the most significant influencers of ocean health today. “Ocean Acidification is something that is happening now. We can’t stop it until we reduce carbon emissions, but we can start thinking about ways to plan and mitigate for it. The more people we have thinking about it now, the more ideas that can be generated towards the issue,” Dr McGraw says. The workshop is the first activity by the Commonwealth Ocean Acidification Action Group, which New Zealand volunteered to champion as part of its support for the Commonwealth Blue Charter – an agreement by all 53 Commonwealth countries to collaborate to solve ocean-related problems and sustainably manage the ocean. Manager of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s Environment Division Rosemary Paterson said New Zealand was proud to support the Commonwealth Blue Charter. “Commonwealth countries are responsible for a third of the world’s national coastal waters and many of us are vulnerable to the impacts of ocean acidification, so it’s vital we step up to lead collective action on this significant threat facing the globe,” she says. More information is available on the Ocean Acidification International Coordination Centre website.
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‘Cold and dry’ in the Antarctic dry valleys
‘Cold and dry’ in the Antarctic dry valleys
Starts: 1:00 pm
Ends: 18/02/2019 - 2:00 pm
Location: The University of Auckland, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Description: The past five decades have seen a total paradigm shift in our understanding of the microbiology of Antarctic terrestrial environments, some of the most extreme habitats on Earth. From the culture-dependent studies of Dry Valley microbiology in the early 1970s prior to the US Mars Viking missions, through to the latest landscape-scale studies using advance metagenomics, international researchers have been fascinated by the ‘extreme’ microbial ecology of the eastern Antarctic desert soils. Over this period and with the dramatic evolution of molecular technologies, Professor Cowan and colleagues have come to understand some of the complexities, both in structure and function, of Antarctic soil microbial communities. These communities are more diverse, more complex, more spatially heterogeneous and more responsive than ever imagined. In this seminar Professor Cowan will summarise the 50-year evolution of Antarctic soil microbial ecology, highlighting both the revelations and the limitations of research on this harsh but charismatic environment. For more information, see the University of Auckland website.
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Coming In Slantwise: Sexuality Education Otherwise
Coming In Slantwise: Sexuality Education Otherwise
Starts: 12:00 am
Ends: 20/02/2019 - 11:59 pm
Location: University of Canterbury, 20 Kirkwood Ave, Upper Riccarton, Christchurch 8041, New Zealand
Description: This two day symposium provides an opportunity for both emergent and established scholars and practitioners in the field of sexuality education to engage with what more sexuality education could become. Responding to contemporary issues in sexuality and gender politics, the presenters will explore what might be productive about considering alternative approaches to sexuality education which come in "slantwise". For more info, see the University of Canterbury website.
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The health and developmental determinants of adolescent criminalisation
The health and developmental determinants of adolescent criminalisation
Starts: 10:30 am
Ends: 20/02/2019 - 11:30 am
Location: University of Otago, Christchurch, 2 Riccarton Ave, Christchurch Central, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand
Description: Professorial Fellow Nathan Hughes, Department of Sociological Studies, University of Sheffield, examines the influence of health and developmental difficulties on the risk of criminality and criminalisation among young people and young adults, with a particular focus on experiences of neurodevelopmental disorders and traumatic brain injury. Strong international evidence shows that neurodevelopmental disability, poor mental health, trauma, and experiences of child maltreatment all appear to increase the risk of exposure to criminal justice systems in adolescence. Come along to find out more about the persuasive evidence that could influence approaches to reforms relating to criminalisation on the basis of health and developmental difficulties. More information available on the University of Otago website.
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What is the future of the engineer?
What is the future of the engineer?
Starts: 5:00 pm
Ends: 20/02/2019 - 7:00 pm
Location: University of Canterbury, Ilam Campus, Christchurch
Description: The University of Canterbury's engineering school presents this year's Guthrie Debate on the future of the engineer. Professor Peter Guthrie OBE FREng, will be joined by the following speakers for the debate: - Dr Duncan Webb – MP, Christchurch Central
- Shirley van Waveren – Business and International Trade Adviser, Canterbury Employers' Chamber of Commerce
- Dr Kristen MacAskill – Fellow of St Edmund's College, Construction Engineering Masters Associate Course Director, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge
More information is available on the University of Canterbury website.
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NZ Science System – Opportunities and Challenges
NZ Science System – Opportunities and Challenges
Starts: 2:30 pm
Ends: 21/02/2019 - 3:30 pm
Location: University of Waikato Campus, KG 11 Lecture Theatre
Description: Professor Gary Evans, Dr Rob Murdoch, and Professor Hamish Spencer, Science Advisors at MBIE, are giving a presentation on The New Zealand Research, Science and Innovation System. During the talk, they will offer some thoughts on the challenges and opportunities for the science system and the wider science community. All welcome to attend; no RSVP needed. More information.
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Quake kids: After 10,000 plus quakes, how do we help our tamariki?
Quake kids: After 10,000 plus quakes, how do we help our tamariki?
Starts: 7:00 pm
Ends: 21/02/2019 - 8:00 pm
Location: University of Canterbury, 20 Kirkwood Ave, Upper Riccarton, Christchurch 8041, New Zealand
Description: After 10,000+ quakes, how do we help our tamariki? On the eve of the eighth anniversary of the deadly 2011 Canterbury earthquake, a panel of mental health and education experts will discuss ways to help quake-affected children, who’ve been shaken by thousands of aftershocks and the chaos of living in the aftermath. How do we improve learning and behaviour of school children after a natural disaster? Drawing on her 12 years of research into Christchurch children’s mental health, University of Canterbury Associate Professor Kathleen Liberty, from the College of Education, Health and Human Development, will describe how children respond to traumatic events and why some children develop chronic stress, and how this affects them. Dr Liberty will outline three steps for helping stressed children. With evidence collected from more than 1000 children, she will explain why the strategies are effective, and point the way toward enhanced community resilience. Learning and behaviour expert Maureen Allan, who coordinates school requests for support for children, will describe the increased demand and nature of problems facing schools in post-earthquake Christchurch. Primary school principal John Bangma will describe how principals led school change to introduce the strategies for helping children, teachers and parents. Britta Liberty, an educator whose manualised programmes are being piloted in schools, will describe positive psychology programmes that teachers and parents can use to help children to cope with future stressors. Panellists · Principal Investigator Associate Professor Kathleen Liberty, School of Health Sciences, UC College of Education,Health and Human Development · Maureen Allan, Cluster Manager, Te Paeroa Resource Teacher of Learning and Behaviour (RTLB) · John Bangma, Principal | Tumuaki of Mairehau Primary School, Lead Principal of Te Paeroa RTLB Cluster and former President of the Canterbury Primary Principals’ Association · Britta Liberty, educator, Bromtreeinquiry.com For more info, visit the University of Canterbury website.
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Investigations in forensic linguistics
Investigations in forensic linguistics
Starts: 12:00 pm
Ends: 22/02/2019 - 1:00 pm
Location: University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus, Gate One Knighton Rd, Hillcrest, Hamilton 3216, New Zealand
Description: How accurately do people remember what they hear? How good are people at identifying voices? Can people disguise their writing enough to get away with a crime? These questions are investigated through forensic linguistics - the intersection of language and the law. In this talk, Corinne Seals, Senior Lecturer from the School of Linguistics and Applied Language Studies – Victoria, will present some of the science behind forensic linguistics to explain how this field assists in solving crimes and in supporting due process. Drawing upon real cases, this talk will show how forensic linguistics investigates the reliability of witness testimony as well as questions of authorship. More information available on the University of Waikato website.
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Symposium on childhood brain injury
Symposium on childhood brain injury
Starts: 4:00 pm
Ends: 22/02/2019 - 6:00 pm
Location: University of Canterbury Recreation Center, 22 Kirkwood Ave, Ilam, Christchurch 8041, New Zealand
Description: Childhood TBI is associated with increased risk of school failure and negative outcomes over the life span. • This symposium will bring together research on difficulties associated with reintegration into the school seeing and community from a number of different countries (New Zealand, USA, Northern Ireland). • Presenters will provide an overview of practical tools and strategies for identifying and supporting children and young people following brain injury. More information is available on the University of Canterbury website.
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