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Flinders University


Informal supporters share experiences of NDIS behavior support practitioners

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.

SourceFlinders University·JournalAustralian Journal of Social Issues·TypeSurvey·DateSep 2, 2026

Major study reveals key differences in bowel cancer before 50

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.

SourceFlinders University·JournalThe Medical Journal of Australia·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 31, 2026

Positive junior sport culture rests with the club

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...

SourceFlinders University·JournalManaging Sport and Leisure·TypeObservational study·DateAug 27, 2026

Lucky break for some native bees

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.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Biogeography·TypeObservational study·DateAug 26, 2026

Consuming my bodyweight in videos

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.

SourceFlinders University·JournalBody Image·TypeSurvey·DateAug 25, 2026

High folic acid in pregnancy linked to early bleeding risk

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.

SourceFlinders University·JournalReproductive Health·TypeObservational study·DateAug 24, 2026

Faster path to treatment for deadly childhood dementia

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.

SourceFlinders University·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 20, 2026

One in 20 Australian women now receiving iron IVs

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.

SourceFlinders University·JournalInternal Medicine Journal·TypeObservational study·DateAug 17, 2026

Feasibility and acceptability of the Cardiac Rehabilitation Especially for Women (CREW) web-based program in rural and remote communities: A mixed-method study

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.

SourceFlinders University·TypeObservational study·DateAug 17, 2026

Charging ahead with sustainable zinc-iodine battery development

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.

SourceFlinders University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 17, 2026

Training opportunities shrink for alcohol and drug support staff

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.

SourceFlinders University·JournalAustralian Journal of Social Issues·TypeContent analysis·DateAug 16, 2026

New AI models still reproduce racial and gender stereotypes in medicine

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.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·TypeObservational study·DateAug 6, 2026

Why a UTI hurts — and why that might be a good thing

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.

SourceFlinders University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 3, 2026

Low energy way to control tiny electronic structures with light

A team of researchers at Flinders University has discovered a novel method to manipulate tiny nanoscale 'bubble' domains within ferroelectric crystals using near-visible light. The study reveals that these structures rapidly expand after the light is switched off, triggering a temporary change in their electronic state.

SourceFlinders University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 3, 2026

Exercise addiction is real, but often overstated

A major international review finds that exercise addiction is marked by a loss of control and can lead to physical harm, emotional distress, and strained connections. Researchers caution against alarm and emphasize the importance of exercising smarter, building in rest and recovery days, and seeking support early.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Behavioral Addictions·TypeSystematic review·DateJul 21, 2026

Boosting bacteria to speed up environmental cleanups

Researchers at Flinders University discovered that phage virus 'bioaugmentation' can enhance microbial function in polluted soils, allowing for faster degradation of pollutants. The method has potential for restoring polluted environments and promoting microbial resilience.

SourceFlinders University·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 12, 2026

Modelling reveals Sydney’s 1789 smallpox outbreak killed as many as 220,000 Indigenous Australians

A groundbreaking study reveals the 1789 smallpox outbreak had a devastating demographic impact on Indigenous Australians, with estimates suggesting up to 220,000 deaths. The model confirms the epidemic originated in Sydney Harbour with the First Fleet, highlighting the catastrophic consequences of colonial invasion.

SourceFlinders University·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 9, 2026

Rethinking the one-night sleep study

A single night of sleep testing is insufficient for an accurate diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), according to a new study published in npj Digital Medicine. The research found that analyzing sleep patterns over multiple nights can provide a more accurate picture of the condition.

SourceFlinders University·Journalnpj Digital Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 7, 2026

Controlling cystitis by targeting the source of pain with new therapies

A new study by Flinders University reveals that targeting specific pain receptors in the bladder can reduce debilitating effects of cystitis. The research suggests that activating certain cannabinoid receptors could provide relief from bladder pain and urinary urgency associated with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS).

SourceFlinders University·JournalAutonomic Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 25, 2026

Commonly prescribed medication for sleep problems raises alarm bells

A clinical trial found that low-dose quetiapine improved sleep quality and reduced obstructive sleep apnea severity, but significantly impaired alertness and driving performance. The study highlights the need for caution when using sedating medications for insomnia in people with known or possible sleep apnea.

SourceFlinders University·JournalAnnals of the American Thoracic Society·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 1, 2026

Autistic Australians three times more likely to be homeless

New Flinders University research reveals that autistic Australians are three times more likely to be homeless, with poor communication and sensory sensitivities major contributors. Strong family support is the most powerful protective factor, while targeted training and autism-informed services can significantly reduce homelessness risk.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Social Distress and the Homeless·TypeCase study·DateMay 26, 2026

Teen attitudes to exercise shape fitness years later

Research shows that intrinsic motivations, such as enjoying physical activity and feeling healthy, consistently matter most in predicting aerobic fitness. Teenagers who value these factors are significantly fitter at 17 than those motivated primarily by winning or external rewards.

SourceFlinders University·JournalChild Care Health and Development·TypeSurvey·DateMay 20, 2026

Engaging young minds: Augmented reality helps children with STEM

Researchers found that augmented reality smart glasses improved engagement and academic outcomes for Year 1 and 2 students in an Australian primary school. The AR technology used immersive visual learning environments to teach science topics, resulting in enhanced cognitive development and social interaction.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Science Education and Technology·TypeObservational study·DateMay 14, 2026