A study found that Night Parrots' visual system is not well-adapted to life in the dark, contrary to expectations. Their eye size and optic nerves are similar to other parrots, with poor resolution vision, making it difficult to distinguish obstacles.
A special issue of Austral Ecology celebrates the work of Professor Mike Bull, a leading expert in lizard behavior and ecology. The issue features 12 new studies on species like pygmy bluetongues and sleepy lizards, exploring topics such as parasites, environmental change, and sociality.
The study, published in Journal of Mental Health, demonstrates the positive clinical outcomes of NewAccess in addressing known barriers to access of evidence-based early intervention for depression and anxiety in Australia. The program offers free therapy with no co-payment, accessible by phone, face-to-face, or self-referral.
A recent study published in Neurogastroenterology & Motility found that high-fat diets change the nutrient-sensing capacity of Enterochromaffin (EC) cells in mice, leading to increased serotonin levels and potential implications for obesity and type 2 diabetes
Climate change may lead to a decrease in areas suitable for most Invasive Weed Species globally, but not in highly productive agricultural regions like Europe, US and Australia. Existing eradication efforts are inadequate to counter the growing threat of invasive weeds.
New studies from Flinders University highlight key areas for improvement in HIV management in developing countries, particularly in sub-Saharan regions. Nutritional programs should address underlying challenges like poverty and food insecurity, while prisons often struggle with optimal HIV care due to stigma and resource limitations.
Researchers studied how hoverflies process visual information to control their flight movements, finding that descending neurons adapt like sensory neurons but also persistently fire like motor neurons. This unique integration of responses offers insights into the brain-behavior link in flies and potentially all vertebrates.
Australian archaeologists have discovered rare, small-scale rock art in the form of miniature stencils in a rockshelter traditionally owned by the Marra people. The discovery adds another dimension to the Australian and global rock art record, highlighting the use of beeswax as a material for making these tiny artworks.
Scientists at Flinders University have developed a new method to create sustainable building blocks, including bricks made from recycled PVC and organic waste. The 'green' bricks can be repeatedly ground up and recycled, reducing waste and promoting a circular economy.
A new study reveals that oceanographic conditions in the Gulf of California drive the origin of new shark and ray species, challenging traditional assumptions about species evolution. Four types of guitarfish have been identified, each adapted to a specific region, with improved survival and reproduction odds.
A new AI-powered algorithm has revolutionized the analysis of deep sleep patterns by automating the detection of K-complexes. The tool, developed by Flinders University researchers, outperforms human scoring methods in speed and accuracy, providing a more comprehensive understanding of sleep health.
Researchers have discovered a new kind of rubber and catalyst that can be used to make flexible, repairable, sustainable objects. The new rubber material can be completely repaired and returned to its original strength in minutes, even at room temperature, with an amine catalyst.
Researchers at Flinders University and US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Disease have developed a highly protective Ebola vaccine that appears to be effective against lethal infections in mice. The vaccine, combined with an Advax™ adjuvant, shows promise for preventing future Ebola outbreaks in Africa.
Researchers discovered 188 engravings in a remote South Australian rockshelter that reveal traumatic period of European invasion and ongoing impacts of colonial settlement. A swastika symbol was found, etched in 1932, marking the first acts of trespass and desecration by police parties.
A Flinders University academic challenges traditional arguments that Chinese written characters hinder its global adoption. Dr Jeffrey Gil presents four arguments supporting the possibility of Chinese becoming a global language, citing technological advancements and historical precedents.
Flinders University researchers warn that social and community disruptions caused by COVID-19 restrictions may have a lasting effect on child wellbeing. The closure of playgrounds and schools has likely had significant impacts on children's opportunities for play and ability to exercise agency during this time of transition.
Healthcare professionals outside general practice often neglect recommending long-acting reversible contraception like IUDs or implants for young women without children. Despite their proven safety and effectiveness, these superior options are underutilized compared to oral contraceptive pills.
A study by Flinders University found that extended selfie editing time correlates with increased facial dissatisfaction and negative emotions among women. This suggests that excessive self-editing can lead to feelings of disingenuousness online.
A global study of over 350,000 teens reveals that lack of sleep can lead to anhedonia, or loss of pleasure, as well as anxiety, anger, and significantly increased risk of depression. Easy interventions such as regulating screen time, delayed school starting times, and monitoring academic pressures can improve mental health.
The new guidelines aim to prevent complications of the respiratory system and muscle deconditioning, while also improving long-term physical function and recovery. Physiotherapists are essential in providing treatment and limiting ICU-acquired weakness.
Researchers found that telehealth services using videoconferences can save travel time, equip families with strategies to promote independence, and reduce costs for non-pharmacologic interventions. The study provides evidence-based information and skills to support people with dementia and their care partners.
A new investigation at Flinders University seeks to understand why bacterial infections predispose individuals to severe COVID-19. The research aims to connect respiratory tract bacterial colonization with COVID-19 outcomes in the community.
A new study by Flinders University highlights the need for better support systems for PTSD partners of veterans and emergency workers. Partners reported feeling invisible in their recovery, with their contributions to trauma management often overlooked.
A study by Flinders University suggests that keeping children with chronic conditions at home during a crisis can help manage their health. The research highlights the importance of supported self-management plans, telehealth options, and technology in enabling children to maintain control over their own health.
A new study warns of amphibian conservation shortfalls due to climate change, highlighting the need for intelligent manipulation and management of water resources. Researchers found that extending temporary pool availability, restoring natural drying patterns, and releasing environmental flows can improve breeding outcomes.
A new study found that people aged 40-49 are at a high risk of 'pre-frailty', a precursor to frailty and increased mortality risk. The study suggests that individuals can take proactive steps to improve their health by addressing factors such as poor nutrition, mental state, lung function, and sleep quality.
A recent study found that young adults in Australia are leaving it 'too late' to seek help for eating disorders due to various barriers. Concerns about autonomy, fear of being a burden, and perceptions of the illness's severity prevent many from seeking professional advice.
Researchers used computer modeling to understand sources and distribution of arsenic-polluted groundwater, pinpointing the source to river muds that fuelled biogeochemical reactions. The model highlighted four key factors influencing arsenic release at surface water/groundwater interfaces.
Studies confirm that breast reduction surgery significantly improves physical health, including pain levels and physical function, as well as mental wellbeing. Women of all shapes and sizes benefit from the surgery, including overweight or obese individuals who were previously barred from the procedure.
Researchers at Flinders University have discovered a complex array of sensory nerve endings in the lower colon that can detect sensory stimuli and communicate with the spinal cord. This breakthrough could lead to new medications to treat disorders related to gut-to-brain communication.
A recent study found that older adults exhibit stronger mindful qualities, such as present-moment attention and non-attachment, which are linked to improved wellbeing. Mindfulness techniques can help build wellbeing at any age, including those developed through app-based programs like Calm and Headspace.
A long-running ARC-funded project explores the recruitment and impact of Aboriginal men as native mounted police in Queensland, revealing ongoing psychological impacts of historical dispossession and frontier violence. The study argues that inter-generational trauma persists among Indigenous Australians.
A 1.57-meter long ancient Elpistostege fish fossil found in Canada has yielded the missing evolutionary link between fish and tetrapods, revealing a humerus (arm), radius, ulna, carpus, and phalanges organized in digits (fingers). The discovery pushes back the origin of digits in vertebrates to the fish level.
A study by Flinders University found that bad sleep habits in teenagers are linked to negative thoughts, perfectionism, and an increased risk of depression. The researchers recommend alternative treatments for repetitive negative thinking and perfectionism, including encouraging regular bedtime routines and limiting screen time.
A recent study by Flinders University found that exposure to #fitspiration images increases negative mood and body dissatisfaction among young women. In contrast, exercise behavior was not significantly affected by viewing these images.
Researchers at Flinders University have developed a new measure for excessive buying problems, the Excessive Buying Rating Scale (EBRS), to assess severity and predict predictors of problematic buying. Strong beliefs about the benefits of buying were significant predictors, while gender and age also played a role.
A new non-invasive eye scan could identify autism in children up to 5 years earlier than current methods, using a hand-held device to detect subtle electrical signals in the retina. The scan was tested on 180 people with and without autism between 5-21 years old.
A new Australian technology developed by Flinders University and Clean Earth Technologies can absorb pollutants, including mercury and oil spills. The solution uses a polymer made from sulfur and plant oil to capture toxic substances in water, reducing environmental harm.
A team of archaeologists has discovered the oldest known Australian example of a communal type of Irish settlement, uncovering a large and vibrant clachan settlement hidden beneath an empty farm paddock. The discovery highlights the sustainable way of life maintained by over 500 Irish migrants who created a community in marginal land.
A new study shows that female dolphins in southern Australia form social clusters with mothers' groups, while maintaining loose bonds with same-sex individuals. The research highlights the importance of conservation efforts to protect marine sanctuaries and regulate aquaculture and fishing practices.
Researchers at Flinders University have developed a decontamination method that removes salmonella contamination from eggshells without impacting the egg's usability. The method involves treating eggs for 9 minutes using kitchen equipment commonly found in commercial kitchens, and has been shown to be effective in reducing the incidenc...
Researchers extracted DNA from museum specimens using a vortex fluidic device (VFD), accelerating the process from days to hours. The breakthrough enables exploration of historical and extinct species' genetic information, shedding light on human impact on ecosystems.
Research finds that low levels of infection can cause chronic bladder dysfunction and magnify sensations felt by patients with urinary tract infections. Understanding how nerves transmit different sensations to the brain could help limit bladder dysfunction in overactive bladder patients.
A study at Flinders University in Australia found that a form of cognitive incentive retraining can help regular consumers of energy drinks reduce their consumption. The training aimed to tackle attentional and approach biases towards energy drinks, helping participants moderate their bias towards choosing healthier options.
A new study by Flinders University finds that teenagers' online impulsivity is a significant risk factor for cybercrime. The internet's blurring of social boundaries encourages thrill-seeking behavior, which can lead to digital piracy, pornography, and hacking. The researchers suggest that policy interventions should take into account ...
A study on esports athletes' sleep habits found that most do not get the recommended 7-9 hours of sleep per night, leading to impaired mental health and performance. Esports organisations are now taking steps to address this issue through sleep interventions.
A study by Flinders University found rising levels of reported antenatal depression in low and middle-income countries. Antenatal depression is associated with increased risk of preterm birth and low birth weight, highlighting the need for more services, particularly in low-income economies.
Researchers have identified 107 genes that increase a person's risk of developing glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible blindness globally. The new test uses genetic information from tens of thousands of people worldwide to accurately predict glaucoma risk using a single blood or saliva sample.
Researchers have discovered a link between a metabolic system in yeast and mammals that regulates cell growth and proliferation. The study found that cancer cells can override sensing systems to maintain uncontrolled proliferation, but disrupting this mechanism can suppress cell growth.
Researchers at Flinders University have developed a new method to measure myopia, using OCT to identify irregularities in the eye's shape. This approach could lead to more effective monitoring and prevention of vision loss, as high myopia is expected to become the leading cause of blindness worldwide by 2050.