A review of healthcare handbasin design guidelines found substantial inconsistencies across 39 countries, highlighting the need for better designs to reduce the risk of drug-resistant bacteria. The study recommends features such as flat basin surfaces, shallow basins, and drain positioning to reduce microbial growth and spread.
Researchers have developed a new method to catch burglars using airborne human DNA, which can be left behind in residential burglaries. The technique, evaluated in a simulated study, showed promise in reconstructing occupancy patterns, but further research is needed to improve reliability.
A study by Flinders University found that gay men who use multiple dating apps experience lower levels of anxiety compared to those who use only one type of app. The study, published in Psychology & Sexuality, suggests that using a broader range of apps can lead to better mental health outcomes.
A recent study by Flinders University found that women with postpartum psychosis often contact healthcare services seven times before receiving a diagnosis. The research highlights the need for greater awareness of the condition and timely assessment to improve outcomes for mothers and their families.
A review of nine international studies found that 71% of caregivers experienced anxiety, 50% depression, and almost all struggled to care for themselves, while social isolation and poor sleep were common. Healthcare services can play a vital role in supporting caregivers by delivering coordinated care that includes them in follow-up care.
A new Flinders University paper highlights the benefits of rural medical education in strengthening healthcare access, building a sustainable workforce, and improving health outcomes in First Nations communities. The study emphasizes the importance of embedding First Nations knowledge and leadership in medical education, as well as rec...
Researchers argue that the gut's enteric nervous system evolved first, influencing digestion and other essential functions, and may have driven the evolution of the brain. This reframing could lead to new avenues for research into conditions like obesity, diabetes, and Parkinson's disease.
A new Australian study reveals that teenagers and their families are under pressure due to long waits for specialist mental healthcare. Most GPs consider these delays unacceptable and say young people should ideally receive care within weeks, not months.
New discoveries at Murujuga, Western Australia, reveal significant Aboriginal cultural heritage on the seabed, showcasing how First Peoples lived, transported goods, and used different places within a vast cultural landscape. The findings provide insights into a world that existed before rising seas reshaped Australia's coastline.
Researchers at Flinders University evaluated an online stepped care approach for PTSD, finding it to be effective and cost-effective compared to traditional therapy. The approach, which combines online self-guided therapy with Cognitive Processing Therapy, achieved similar improvements to traditional therapy while reducing costs.
A new study suggests that both autistic and non-autistic suspects may be judged more harshly in forensic interviews if their behavior deviates from societal norms. The research, published in Law and Human Behavior, challenges the widely held 'double empathy hypothesis' that autistic people can better read intentions and motivations in ...
A new mobile app, The Jetlag Fix, provides personalized plans for travelers to overcome jetlag, taking into account individual sleep timing, route, and dates. The app's science-backed computational model rates trip challenges and provides bespoke advice to reduce jetlag impact.
A new study by Flinders University highlights the risks of poor mental health and wellbeing in young athletes (17-24 years old) due to heavy dual-career demands. Young athletes who pursue sport for personal enjoyment and a love for the game tend to be more persistent and psychologically healthier.
Researchers have found that vanillin has pronounced antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making it a potential solution for chronic wound healing. The compound, commonly used in foods for its sweet aroma, has been linked to biological activity and potential biomedical applications.
A study published in the British Medical Journal Open found that government-owned and not-for-profit nursing homes had lower hospitalization rates compared to for-profit homes. The research, which analyzed over 200,000 long-term care facility residents, suggests that privatization may compromise resident health outcomes.
Flinders University researchers have identified a need for structured communication by health professionals when addressing driving cessation with people with dementia. The study suggests four phases of support: prepare the person, navigate fitness-to-drive decisions, deliver a recommendation, and adjust to life without driving.
A major international study suggests that gaming disorder is 98.9% similar to gambling disorder, while binge eating disorder and compulsive sexual behaviour disorder also show a high degree of overlap. The findings highlight the need to recognize behavioural addictions and seek support earlier, potentially reducing stigma and improving...
Rising rates of ocular syphilis and ocular toxoplasmosis are putting people at risk of preventable vision loss. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly reduce the risk of permanent sight loss. Regular eye examinations and timely reporting of vision changes are crucial in protecting sight.
Flinders University researchers found that perceptions of online activists' motives can impact collective action effectiveness. Bystanders are less likely to participate when they perceive activists as insincere, indicating autonomous motivation is key to movement success.
A new plan aims to increase awareness of veterans' needs in AOD care, with a focus on improving recognition and care through accreditation processes. This approach has the potential to strengthen military cultural competency and support more responsive, culturally safe care for veterans.
A systematic appraisal of current nutrition guidelines found that there is a significant gap in nutrition guidance for critically ill patients recovering from major surgery. Researchers recommend tailoring nutrition care to each patient's condition and stage of recovery to support healing and improve outcomes.
Researchers analyzed 69 natural archives from tropical Australia, finding no evidence of complex rainfall patterns during the Holocene. Instead, they suggest that past data limitations may have led to an overestimation of complexity.
A new study calculates the pre-colonial Indigenous population was up to 2.22 million, significantly higher than previous estimates. The research also estimates 2.06 million excess deaths between 1788 and 1861, highlighting the devastating impacts of colonization.
Researchers used finite element analysis to study how eight species of armoured fish, placoderms, caught their prey 385 million years ago. They found that despite differences in jaw shape and size, both the largest and smallest placoderms had evolved strong jaws to handle hard bites.
A new study found that ocean acidification can undermine the health of diatoms, crucial organisms for oxygen production and carbon capture. The research highlights the need for better understanding of complex processes in seawater to find solutions for ocean conservation.
A study found that fertility tests, particularly anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) tests, are not accurate in predicting a woman's reproductive potential. Researchers found that many women and clinicians misunderstand the results, leading to psychological impact and misinformed decisions.
Researchers analyzed 300 social media posts tagged #healthylifestyle, #nutrition and #cleaneating, finding widespread messaging on restrictive food rules, moralized views of food and unrealistic dietary ideals. The study highlights the need for healthy eating to be flexible, enjoyable and sustainable.
A review of 31 studies found six consistent psychosocial domains shaping young people's experience of cancer, including family, relationships, and emotions. The study highlights a need for psychosocial support tailored to a child's developmental stage, suggesting a window for prehabilitation to build coping and resilience.
A scoping review of 32 studies found cancer patients are generally favourable towards Generative AI, but most studies focused on simplifying clinical reports, leaving potential uses unexplored. The review highlights the need for patients' perspectives in designing and implementing Generative AI for cancer care.
The study highlights the need for greater transparency and expertise in NDIS behavior support, with supporters seeking clearer information about practitioners' qualifications and approach. The research also emphasizes the importance of person-centered practice, involving participants and informal supporters in planning and implementation.
Researchers analyzed data from 1,691 Australians with liver-spreading bowel cancer, finding younger patients had distinct tumour characteristics and lived longer after treatment. Genetic mutations such as BRAF and KRAS were associated with poorer outcomes across both age groups, highlighting the importance of genetic testing.
Researchers found thylacines used high-impact snapping to catch small prey, contradicting myths of ferocious predators. The unique skull shape allowed them to withstand powerful bite forces, setting them apart from other carnivorous mammals.
Researchers have discovered a method to create complex polymer patterns using low-power lasers, enabling the production of water-repellent coatings and optical devices. The technique also has potential applications in data storage, electronics, and biomedical devices.
A new trial has found that implanting an ICD in patients with mild-to-moderate heart dysfunction can reduce sudden cardiac death, particularly in younger patients. This breakthrough has the potential to save lives and expand treatment options for patients who previously were not eligible for ICDs.
A recent study published in Managing Sport and Leisure examines adult sideline behaviour in junior rugby league, finding that negative behaviors are increasingly normalized in older age groups. The research emphasizes the importance of establishing positive behavioral norms early in the junior pathway and challenges traditional approac...
A new study found that some Fijian native bee populations have evolved to resist human-driven environmental changes, contrary to the global trend of declining pollinators. The study suggests that forest clearing and introduced plant species can increase nesting opportunities for these bees, particularly in lower elevation areas.
A study of 446 young adults from Australia and China found that frequent exposure to eating videos can lead to body image concerns, strong food cravings, and symptoms linked to disordered eating. The study suggests that these videos may contribute to unhealthy thoughts about food, eating, and appearance.
A study of 2,400 women found that high folic acid intake was associated with vaginal bleeding in early pregnancy, especially in pregnancies carrying a boy. Women taking 800 micrograms or more of folic acid per day were more likely to experience spotting and mild bleeding during the first 16 weeks of pregnancy.
Researchers have identified several existing TGA-approved medicines that could slow brain damage in children with Sanfilippo syndrome, a devastating childhood dementia. The study used lab-grown brain cells and AI to rapidly test approved drugs and pinpoint those that improve brain cell health.
A new study found a 17-fold increase in intravenous iron use among Australian women aged 18-44, with over 82 million dollars spent on the treatment. The study highlights the growing awareness of iron deficiency's impact on women's health, but also raises questions about access to equitable treatment.
A mixed-method study found high rates of cardiac rehabilitation initiation and completion among women in rural and remote South Australia using a web-based program. Participants reported high satisfaction with the program, highlighting its value in addressing women's unique needs.
Flinders University researchers have designed an aqueous zinc-ion battery that can be charged and discharged over 60,000 cycles, potentially mitigating resource shortages and waste issues associated with lithium-ion batteries. The system uses low-cost organic cyclodextrin-based polymer host material to trap and release polyhalides.
A study by Flinders University researchers found a contraction in AOD VET programs and providers over the past 13 years, despite an increase in private providers. The authors express concern about unequal access to training due to financial, digital, and cultural barriers, which may limit participation for rural and remote workers.
A new study uses genomics to identify endangered southern pygmy perch populations most at risk from climate change. The research reveals that conservation breeding can preserve a species' adaptability to future warming.
Researchers found that next-generation reasoning LLMs o3-mini and DeepSeek-R1 reproduced racial and gender stereotypes in generated clinical content. The models overrepresented Black populations in stereotypically associated conditions and exaggerated the majority gender, mirroring issues previously observed in GPT-4.
A global review found that high temperatures and heatwaves are associated with poorer mental health outcomes in children, with a 25% increase in risk during heatwaves. The study suggests targeted interventions for children and young people to mitigate the effects of climate change on their mental wellbeing.
A new study finds that fossilized feces played a crucial role in the Cambrian Explosion, a period when life on Earth diversified rapidly. The 'faecal revolution' suggests that the buildup of excrement encouraged marine life to evolve and diversify.
Researchers have discovered a previously overlooked group of bladder nerves that help detect urinary tract infections and trigger the body's response to clear them. These nerves, located close to the bladder lining, act as an early warning system that springs into action during a UTI, helping to reduce severity and spread of infection.
A new study by Flinders University suggests that excessive use of dating apps and pornography can lead to a weaker sense of existential meaning in romantic love. Experts found that people who used these platforms mindfully were less likely to become hooked and reported fewer problems with their views on love.
Researchers use DNA sequencing to monitor microbial changes and detect infections more rapidly than traditional methods. This technology has the potential to improve diagnosis, treatment, and patient outcomes for people with cystic fibrosis and other infectious diseases.