Researchers have successfully repurposed two existing medications to reduce the severity of sleep apnoea in people by at least 30 per cent. The study showed that reboxetine and butylbromide increased muscle activity around participants' airways, reducing the number of breathing stoppages and improving oxygen intake.
A new trial will evaluate a blood test for personalized cancer treatment, targeting oesophageal, stomach and bowel cancers. The test detects DNA changes specific to cancer and may offer an earlier indication of treatment effectiveness.
A study from Flinders University reveals that a common native bee species has flourished since the first land clearances by humans in Fiji. The expansion of Homalictus fijiensis coincides with early human colonization of the Pacific islands, rather than climate change.
A recent study using computer modelling found that the SARS-CoV-2 virus binds more tightly to human cells than any other tested animal species, including bats and pangolins. The results suggest that the virus may have adapted to become an effective human pathogen through convergent evolution or genetic recombination.
During COVID-19 lockdowns, high-energy density foods like sweets and salty treats saw increased intake among some adults, with a heightened risk of weight gain. Researchers warn that those struggling to control food cravings are most at risk, highlighting the need for strategies to manage snacking.
Research reveals liver cancer incidence is 2.6 times higher in Indigenous Australians compared to non-Indigenous patients. Mobile liver clinics and regular ultrasound surveillance can help prevent the disease, according to expert calls for action.
Researchers at Flinders University have developed AI2 software that analyzes patient data to detect gaps in care and trigger interventions. The tool showed potential in reducing hospitalization rates among patients with severe mental illnesses.
Researchers at Flinders University have discovered that fish oil fatty acids can render bacteria more susceptible to antibiotics. This discovery is vital in combating the rise of superbugs with unprecedented levels of antibiotic resistance.
A new study found that middle-aged women in Australia and the UK stockpiled alcohol during COVID-19 lockdowns due to anxiety and depression. The research suggests an urgent need to address mental health issues associated with the pandemic.
Researchers have discovered the VFD's capabilities in controlling chemical reactivity, materials processing, and probing self-organised systems. The device has shown promise in synthesizing various compounds and could lead to more efficient and environmentally friendly production methods.
A new study by Flinders University researchers found that people living with HIV/AIDS face significant discrimination in their families, communities, and even among healthcare providers. This stigma can lead to concealment of the condition, self-isolation, and poor access to healthcare services.
Researchers developed new clinical guidelines for Australian doctors to treat insomnia with Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for insomnia (CBTi), improving mental health and quality of life. CBTi can be more successful than sleeping pills in managing insomnia.
A Flinders University study found participants with an automatic bias towards soft drinks were more responsive to TV ads than those without these tendencies. The researchers suggest targeting people who show cognitive vulnerabilities to reduce consumption of sugary drinks.
A study published in the Journal of Sleep Research found that disrupted slumber can be associated with cognitive dysfunction in middle-aged and older men. The research suggests that optimal attention and cognitive speed may be affected by poor sleep, particularly in day-to-day activities such as driving and physical activities.
A comprehensive review suggests that gut microbiota play a crucial role in immune responses to vaccinations. The study aims to improve vaccine effectiveness by understanding the microbiota's impact on B and T cell immune responses.
A five-year study found that Australia's Closing the Gap program has not improved disparities in Indigenous health, income, employment, child removal, and incarceration. Researchers suggest that 'Western' cultural beliefs over Indigenous cultures hinder policy change.
People with myopia experience poorer sleep quality due to delayed circadian rhythms and lower melatonin production. The study highlights the importance of adequate sleep for good vision, particularly in children exposed to excessive screen time.
A new study found that one in four pregnant women were denied medication for severe nausea and vomiting, with over-the-counter doxylamine being a common issue. Healthcare providers' lack of awareness about clinical guidelines and misinterpretation of medication labels contribute to these denials.
A study by Flinders University found that online learning positively impacted overall student performance, especially for lower-achieving students during the COVID-19 pandemic. The best results were achieved with high-quality teachers preparing content for rural and city students, regardless of location.
Researchers and clinicians now have evidence-based criteria to develop targeted interventions for this debilitating condition. Compulsive Buying-Shopping Disorder is characterized by excessive purchasing without utilising items for their intended purposes and using shopping to regulate internal states.
A new study reveals that higher body mass index (BMI) is associated with worse survival in early breast cancer patients but improved survival in advanced disease. The 'obesity paradox' highlights the need to understand the biological basis of obesity impacts on breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.
A team of experts used advanced modelling techniques to recreate the journey of Australia's indigenous people, who navigated the continent tens of thousands of years ago. The study reveals that prominent landscape features and water sources played a crucial role in their survival and growth.
A new study found that Aboriginal families with children suffering severe burns often struggle to pay healthcare costs and travel expenses, exacerbating existing economic hardship. The research also highlighted the importance of family networks in mitigating financial burdens, but called for improved access to government initiatives ai...
A pilot program in five Australian nursing homes shows personalized music selections reduce resident agitation and staff stress levels, leading to improved wellbeing and reduced medication use.
A meta-analysis of 400+ clinical trials involving over 50,000 participants found that mindfulness, positive psychological interventions, and cognitive behavioural therapy can increase wellbeing across different groups. Consistent and prolonged practice is crucial for these interventions to be effective in improving wellbeing.
Researchers identified serum amyloid A (SAA) as a potential biomarker for COVID-19 risk, with higher levels associated with increased inflammation, clot abnormalities, and organ damage. This biomarker could help facilitate early identification of patients requiring aggressive management and monitoring.
A new theory explains how suspended sediment particles mysteriously move upward on submarine canyon slopes, defying gravity. This discovery helps understand biogeochemical cycles at continental margins and feeding behavior of suspension feeders like baleen whales and krill.
A novel technique using an ancient inorganic salt-based material has been developed to pinpoint and illuminate bone damage, potentially leading to more efficient X-ray diagnostics and treatment. The new method could also be used for advanced applications such as bioimaging and optogenetics.
A new study found that autistic adults are often misjudged due to stereotypical behaviors, leading to disadvantage in the legal system. The researchers argue that these behaviors can be misinterpreted by judges and juries, resulting in harsher sentences for autistic individuals.
A new analysis reveals that biological invasions have caused over $1.28 trillion in economic damage globally since 1970. The study highlights the urgent need for effective management policies to mitigate the rising costs of invasive species, which are projected to increase by trillions of dollars in coming years.
The deployment of personal electronic deterrents is an effective way to prevent future deaths and injuries from shark bites. The technology has been shown to reduce the likelihood of a bite by about 60%, potentially saving hundreds of lives.
A machine learning study of rock art in Arnhem Land, Australia, has reconstructed the chronology of artistic styles using over 14 million images. The analysis revealed a link between style similarity and time, showing that styles closer in age were also more similar in appearance.
Researchers at Flinders University in Australia have found a link between normal-tension glaucoma and cognitive impairment, with patients having this type of glaucoma being more than twice as likely to develop dementia. The study suggests that normal-tension glaucoma may share similar neurodegenerative pathways with dementia.
Researchers examine brain structures of extinct giant birds, finding similarities with modern chickens and ducks. The analysis reveals that these ancient birds had well-developed stereoscopic vision and a diet of soft leaves and fruit.
The excavation of shell middens off two sites in the Gulf of Mexico and Northern Europe reveals new insights into the hidden history of submerged landscapes. The study challenges the current understanding of coastal life in these regions by pushing back the inhabitation timeframe by hundreds of years.
A rare bone point, dated between 5,300-3,800 years old, has been discovered near the Lower Murray River, providing insights into Ngarrindjeri country's material culture. The artefact, likely made from a macropod bone, was found during excavation work and is believed to have been used for piercing soft materials or as a projectile point.
Researchers at Flinders University have developed a new sustainable insulation material using waste cooking oil, sulfur, and wool offcuts, offering promising energy savings for property owners and tenants. The composite boasts low flammability and biodegradable properties, aligning with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals.
Research suggests that repeated exposure to veggies and daily variety can increase kids' intake. Experts recommend practical advice on how to offer veggies to young children to establish healthy eating habits from an early age.
A genomic study of over 500 common dolphins across 1,500 sq km reveals complex population structure and connectivity across state and international jurisdictions. The research emphasizes the importance of inter-jurisdictional collaboration to mitigate fisheries interactions and protect dolphin populations.
A new tool helps managers balance benefits and drawbacks of wildlife tourism, considering factors like conservation, animal welfare, and ecosystem impacts. The framework reveals the wholistic acceptability of white shark cage-diving and identifies areas for improvement.
AusStage, a digital humanities platform preserving Australian live performance history, has been awarded a UNESCO Memory of the World accolade. The recognition highlights the importance of preserving artistic activity and its impact on understanding Australia's cultural heritage.
Researchers analyzed 70,000 ancient skeletons to find declining rates of transmission for these chronic infectious diseases. The analysis suggests that pathogens may evolve to cause less harm to humans over time, leading to reduced transmission.
A rare Australian native bee species, Pharohylaeus lactiferus, has been found again after 100 years, with only six individuals previously recorded. The discovery highlights the species' vulnerability to habitat destruction and wildfires in Australia's rainforests.
A new study found that women who survived domestic violence are more vulnerable to elder abuse, with 6.4% reporting past experience and significantly poorer psychological wellbeing. This highlights the need for clinical monitoring and ongoing support for survivors as they age.
A new study identifies ten key factors contributing to the success of some countries in containing the COVID-19 pandemic, including considering globalization, political leadership, and civil society. The research highlights the importance of a systems approach to assess pandemic preparedness and social security provisions.
Scientists reviewed over 1,000 studies on recreational hunting, finding both environmental and social benefits, as well as detrimental effects. The research highlights the need for more analysis to understand how recreational hunting can work for good and in which areas it can be detrimental.
A team of researchers from Flinders University and the South Australian Museum discovered a new species of skink, Proegernia mikebulli, in the Namba Formation deposits. The fossil, named after Professor Mike Bull, is Australia's oldest known lizard, dating back to 25 million years ago.
A new analysis published in The Lancet Psychiatry found that current psychological therapies for treating anorexia nervosa do not significantly differ from expert treatment as usual. This highlights the need for further research into more targeted therapies to improve patient outcomes.
Researchers found that early antiviral treatment reduces 30-day readmissions and length of hospital stay. Troponin studies identify patients at higher risk of mortality due to underlying cardiovascular disease issues.
A new study found that people with BPD are becoming more knowledgeable about the disorder and available treatments, but may still face significant challenges in finding appropriate help. Experts highlight the need for improved services, including public subsidies for specialized services and increased training for health professionals.