Research by Curtin University reveals that native habitats near farmland can enhance insect diversity, supporting pollination and crop resilience. The study's findings offer a potential solution to safeguarding global food security for the growing population, which will require increased agricultural productivity by 25-75% by 2050.
A common genetic variant has been found to double the risk of dementia in men, but not women, according to new research. The study, published in Neurology, used data from the ASPirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly (ASPREE) trial to investigate the link between the HFE gene variant and dementia risk.
Researchers mapped TB cases in Africa using a Bayesian geospatial analysis, revealing dramatic differences in disease burden between local regions. The study's findings highlight the importance of targeted health resources and could help reduce tuberculosis deaths by 95% by 2035.
A study by Curtin University reveals that high densities of European honey bees harm Australian native bees' 'fitness' through reduced reproductive success and altered key traits. In areas with higher honey bee densities, native bees produce fewer female offspring and have higher mortality rates.
Researchers found high levels of magnesium in glass beads collected from the Chinese National Space Administration mission to the Moon. This suggests that an asteroid may have smashed into rocks originating from the mantle deep within the Moon.
Regular chats with friends and daily time spent in nature are strongly linked to improved mental health, scoring 10 points higher on a standard mental well-being scale. Practicing spirituality, physical activity, and helping others also contribute to better mental well-being.
Scientists analyzed lava flows and tracked displacement over thousands of years to understand continental deformation. The study found the Tuz Gölü Fault Zone is slowly pulling apart, providing insights into tectonic plate collisions.
A massive meteorite impact in Scotland, previously believed to occur 1.2 billion years ago, has been dated to 990 million years ago. This discovery has significant implications for our understanding of the evolution of non-marine life on Earth and its potential influence on environmental conditions.
Researchers analyzed over 8500 meteoroids and found that the atmosphere and Sun act like giant filters, destroying fragile carbon-rich meteoroids before they reach the ground. This discovery reshapes how scientists interpret meteorites collected so far and could influence future asteroid missions.
New research found pet dogs disturb and directly harm wildlife, even when leashed, leading to reduced animal activity and avoided areas. Dog waste contributes to water pollution and inhibits plant growth.
Research reveals housing instability, parental mental health, and social isolation are major drivers of child food insecurity. Long-term health consequences also arise from vulnerable households.
A new report reveals young Australians are feeling financial pressure, worsening mental health, and declining trust in institutions. Cost of living, education, and mental health were identified as key concerns, with young people taking the lead in social issues.
Researchers from Curtin University and Geological Survey of Western Australia have discovered the world's oldest known impact crater, dating back to 3.5 billion years ago. The discovery was made in the Pilbara region of Western Australia and provides new insights into the origins of life on Earth.
A recent study published in Psychiatry Research found that children exposed to their mother's cannabis use during pregnancy and after birth are three times more likely to develop behavioural problems. The research analysed data from over 222,600 Australian mothers and children, revealing a significant increase in the risk of childhood ...
Researchers at Curtin University have developed a new type of quantum dot that matches or outperforms traditional cadmium-based QLEDs in terms of efficiency and color accuracy. The breakthrough technology emits pure and vibrant blue light with an impressive 24.7% efficiency, lasting nearly 30,000 hours.
Researchers at Curtin University have developed a new technique to make glass water-repellent, creating a durable and environmentally friendly surface that can improve safety in vehicles and buildings. The process uses ultrasound to trigger a chemical reaction, forming a stable organic layer on the glass surface.
Researchers found that ancient glaciers carved deep into the Earth's crust, releasing key minerals that altered ocean chemistry. This process created conditions that allowed complex life to evolve, with the influx of elements changing ocean chemistry at a critical time in evolution.
Researchers found urban sprawl and poor waste management led to an abundance of plastic waste. Burning plastic releases harmful chemicals, posing health risks to women and children. The issue affects millions in cities struggling with basic services.
A new study found that exposure to outdoor air pollution and extreme temperatures during pregnancy increases the risk of prolonged pregnancies. Prolonged pregnancy can lead to serious health implications for both mother and baby, including increased risk of stillbirth, birth complications, and emotional impacts on families.
Researchers gained insight into the early history of the solar system through well-preserved asteroid samples. The analysis revealed a variety of salts, including sodium carbonates, phosphates, sulphates, and chlorides, which formed from evaporation of brines. These findings may provide clues about the presence of life on distant icy b...
A study by Curtin University found that when cigarette prices increased, cannabis use among older Australians (aged over 50) rose, with 68,000 people expected to start using cannabis. Researchers used data from the Australian National Drug Strategy Household Survey and ran simulations to predict the impact of price increases.
A Curtin University study uses eDNA metabarcoding to track insect interactions with avocado flowers, detecting five times more unique pest species than digital video recordings. This method could help improve yields and make agricultural operations more efficient by identifying beneficial pollinators and pests.
Researchers at Curtin University found that the Ninetyeast Ridge, the Earth's longest straight underwater mountain chain, formed as a massive volcanic chain between 83 and 43 million years ago. High-precision dating revealed that the hotspot responsible for the ridge moved by several hundred kilometres within the mantle over time.
Researchers confirm oil presence in Mauritius mangrove forest close to Ramsar conservation sites, three years after MV Wakashio spill. The oil has undergone weathering and biodegradation, but its ongoing presence poses an unknown risk to the sensitive ecosystem.
New Curtin University research reveals complex factors shaping child development beyond screen time. Parental mental health and the type of screen used are found to have an impact on infant development at 12 months.
A Curtin University-led study has found geochemical 'fingerprints' of water-rich fluids in a 4.45 billion-year-old zircon grain from the Martian meteorite NWA7034. This discovery opens up new avenues for understanding ancient Martian hydrothermal systems and the planet's past habitability.
A new report from Curtin University highlights WA's strengths in mining and energy but warns of limitations in emerging sectors. The report calls for targeted reforms and investment to boost talent development, gender diversity and access to capital and infrastructure.
A new Curtin University study found that time spent on social media has a negligible effect on mental health indicators such as depression, anxiety, and stress. The research suggests that the relationship between social media use and mental health is complex, with some platforms having different effects on users.
Researchers have deployed a buoy off the coast of Perth to measure algae levels and improve satellite data accuracy for NASA's PACE mission. The project aims to study the impact of phytoplankton on ocean health and climate regulation, with potential benefits in combating climate change.
Researchers confirm Rottnest Island and Swan River geological histories through ancient mineral grains. The study offers insights into the coast's transformation over thousands of years and its future adaptations to rising sea levels.
A breakthrough study by Curtin-led researchers reveals how to make more molecules stick to the surface of tiny nanocrystals, leading to improvements in everyday technology. The discovery could enhance the performance of devices such as LEDs, solar cells and medical imaging systems.
Scientists have found that the Pinnacles in Western Australia were formed about 100,000 years ago during a wet period, distinct from the current Mediterranean climate. The iron-rich nodules trapped helium from radioactive decay, providing a precise record of their formation.
Little Penguins can hear sounds across a broad range between 200 and 6,000 Hz underwater, similar to other diving birds. Continuous exposure to high noise levels may increase stress and interfere with feeding behaviors.
Researchers found the stone's age and chemical composition matched rocks from northeast Scotland, differentiating it from Welsh bedrock. The discovery suggests a high level of societal organization and implies long-distance trade networks along the British coast.
Researchers at Curtin University used a new geochronology technique to accurately date iron oxide minerals, finding the Hamersley deposits formed between 1.4 and 1.1 billion years ago. This discovery enhances our understanding of ancient geological processes and improves predictions for future exploration.
A new study reveals that at least 46,000 Australian welders are exposed to high levels of welding fume, a known carcinogen. The survey found that nearly 90% of workers were exposed to 'welding fume', with many working in confined spaces without proper ventilation.
Researchers uncover dark particles and lighter components with stones, suggesting asteroids played a key role in delivering water and life to Earth. The samples also contain unexpected minerals, offering insights into Bennu's evolution and the early solar system.
Researchers at Curtin University have identified a new species of pterosaur, Haliskia peterseni, from 100-million-year-old fossilized bones found in western Queensland. The specimen is 22% complete and includes features such as complete lower jaws, teeth, and wing bones.
Researchers developed a Single Data Dictionary to predict outcomes for people with TBI, combining factors like social support, health, and biological markers. The dictionary aims to provide personalized care and rehabilitation, improving quality of life for patients and reducing negative impacts on families and society.
Researchers have found evidence of fresh water on Earth dating back to four billion years ago, shedding light on the planet's early history and the emergence of life. This discovery suggests landmasses and freshwater played a crucial role in supporting life within a relatively short time frame after the planet formed.
Researchers found that an inpatient treatment approach using high-energy refeeding can improve both physical and psychological health in adults with eating disorders. The study, led by Fiona Salter, investigated 97 voluntary hospital patients and found significant improvements in weight change and psychological wellbeing.
A new Curtin University research study found that taking pictures of food can be an accurate way to track dietary intake. The study used the mobile Food Record app, which analyzed photos to estimate energy and nutrient intake, outperforming traditional recall methods.
Researchers discovered that adding water-resistant materials to an electrode can dramatically speed up chemical reactions in water, known as 'fouling'. This process can increase reaction rates up to six times faster than traditional methods. By leveraging this method, the chemical industry may be able to reduce its reliance on fossil f...
A Curtin University study found that breeding less-flatulent cows and restoring agricultural land can significantly reduce methane emissions from Australia's beef and dairy sectors. Researchers identified several strategies to lower emissions, including altering breeding objectives and improving wastewater management.
Researchers have discovered a rare dust particle trapped in an ancient meteorite that formed from a star other than the sun. The particle contains exceptionally high levels of magnesium isotopes, which can only be explained by formation in a hydrogen-burning supernova.
Researchers found a link between miscarriage and increased risks of developing gestational diabetes (44% higher) and pre-eclampsia (37% higher), but not with abortion. The study analyzed over 4 million pregnancies and suggests new ways to mitigate risks or prevent these conditions from progressing.
A new study predicts that Australia's soil will become a net emitter of carbon dioxide, releasing more CO2 into the air than it absorbs. This could account for 8.3% of current emissions and worsen climate change unless farming methods are improved.
A perfect storm of calm weather and limited tidal movement trapped coral eggs in Bills Bay, leading to a massive die-off. However, research by Curtin University shows that some corals were able to survive and that the area has a history of recovering from similar events.
Researchers at Curtin University have discovered a new potential predator for the endangered western spiny-tailed skink, raising concerns about the susceptibility of similar-sized juvenile lizards. The spotted mulga snake's consumption of a pygmy spiny-tailed skink suggests that these snakes may also prey on vulnerable juveniles.
A recent study analyzing 85,000 kilograms of donated food to Foodbank WA found that 96% met food safety standards, while four per cent were not safe for human consumption. The research highlights the need for improved regulation and guidelines in Australia's food relief sector.