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.
People with frailty want online nutrition education that is personalised, credible, and accessible across diverse learning needs. They value tools that support autonomy, dietary self-management, and healthy ageing, and prioritize tailored resources that acknowledge individual variability.
A major study reveals the incidence of acute pancreatitis in South Australia has increased to above the global average, with growth rates highest among women and those living in wealthier areas. The condition is increasingly linked to gallstones and metabolic risk factors, shifting the profile of who is at risk.
Researchers develop first quality-of-life measure specifically designed for Australian aged 65 and over, to improve care and outcomes. The tool will enable consistent monitoring of quality-of-life outcomes across health and aged care settings.
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.
An AI platform called AutoReview scans health records against clinical guidelines to identify gaps and connect patients with available care solutions. The project aims to improve early detection and intervention, reducing hospitalisations by up to 25% and saving lives.
The book offers practical, research-informed strategies to help pre-service and early career teachers navigate professional challenges. It explores how teachers can prepare for new roles, embed Aboriginal perspectives, and design inclusive learning opportunities.
Experts call for a transdisciplinary approach to fix aging societies' health and aged care issues. Governance, workforce management, and organizational design must be interconnected to create a shared language and structures needed to bring disciplines together.
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.
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.
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.
A new global certification program and recommendations have been developed to advance stroke rehabilitation globally. The program aims to improve access to stroke rehabilitation, particularly in low-and-middle-income countries.
Researchers at Flinders University have found evidence of 7000 years of Aboriginal mining at Sugarloaf Hill in South Australia's Riverland region. The study sheds light on the traditional practices and trade networks of Aboriginal people in the area.
A new study by Flinders University researchers has identified key research priorities to enhance recognition and support for unpaid carers in Australia. The priorities include recognition, early identification, timely access to services, and post-care support, as well as carer self-care and wellbeing.
A new study calls for formal recognition of toxoplasmosis as a neglected tropical disease by the World Health Organization. The disease, which can cause permanent vision loss, affects one third of the world's population and has significant impacts on global health.
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).
Research reveals that gaming fans' passionate critiques are a sign of deep brand loyalty and can drive consumer advocacy. The study found six distinct dimensions of brand advocacy, including Brand Positivity and Brand Defence, which are key to building genuine fan communities.
Researchers discovered bacteria can migrate over metres as self-organised bands, driven by selection of strongest swimmers. This finding reveals bacterial diversity plays crucial role in ecosystem resilience.
As we age, the body adopts a safety-first walking style that sacrifices efficiency for stability, leading to slower speeds and increased fatigue. Researchers identified subtle changes in ankle and surrounding muscles controlling each step.
A growing addiction crisis in Australia requires a larger workforce, with only around 300 doctors specializing in addiction medicine. Researchers suggest early exposure and clearer career paths can quickly grow the workforce. The study found that many doctors discover addiction medicine by chance, limiting recruitment.
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.
A new fossil discovery fills gaps in fossil history, revealing diverse and complex ecosystems during the late Cambrian period. The discovery of Magnicornaspis garwoodi, a 500-million-old anthropod, joins a growing list of Furongian sites that challenge the notion of a barren world.
Researchers found a clear divide in how gay and mainstream dating apps shape behavior and body image among Australian men. Gay dating apps encourage users to focus heavily on their bodies, leading to overwhelming pressure and negative self-talk.
A new AI system has dramatically reduced the time spent on complex experiments to test and find new gallium-based semiconductor materials. The AI uses Bayesian optimization to predict entirely new material compositions with desired electronic properties.
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.
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.
Research led by Flinders University reveals complex interplay between male and female hoverfly flight speeds, with males using their bigger eyes to detect optic flow and gain a breeding advantage. The study sheds light on the biomechanical qualities of these fast and dexterous flies.
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.
A systematic review of point-of-care testing found that rapid tests improve people's understanding of their condition, increase confidence in self-management, and motivate lifestyle changes. This leads to better medication adherence and improved clinical markers, ultimately reducing the risk of serious complications.
A national study found almost half of Australian men aged 30-59 exceed the recommended weekly alcohol intake, with factors such as smoking, illicit drug use, and psychological distress linked to risky drinking. The research highlights the need for targeted approaches to reduce alcohol-related harms among middle-aged men.
A major international study has identified a genetic contributor to juvenile glaucoma, which can affect people before the age of 40. The study found that individuals with a specific genetic duplication have an increased risk of developing the condition, and may benefit from routine testing.
Researchers at Flinders University found that methamphetamine contamination on car surfaces can persist despite ventilation, with textile or soft surfaces still at risk. The study highlights the complexity of managing meth contamination in contained spaces and emphasizes the need for public health safeguards when buying or using vehicles.
A new study highlights the importance of involving older people in technology design to ensure devices are useful, respectful, and culturally appropriate. Co-design helps build trust and ensures technologies support older people's autonomy and dignity.
A new international study suggests that people who feel less certain about themselves may look to celebrities for guidance and inspiration. The research found that celebrity worship can serve a compensatory role when people are struggling with their identity or autonomy.
Flinders University experts caution that AI's impressive capabilities do not automatically translate into safe use for patients. The researchers stress the need for strong governance and clearer standards for evaluation to ensure AI supports doctors in busy care settings.
New research reveals that kangaroos' thick tooth enamel allowed them to efficiently feed on grasses, unlike other herbivores. This unusual adaptation likely played a key role in their success, as they outcompeted extinct marsupials with similar dental features.
A new study found that young men who viewed idealized fitness or supplement videos on TikTok reported lower fitness satisfaction and stronger intentions to use creatine, a popular muscle-building supplement. The researchers highlight the need for targeted media literacy education and responsible social media practices.
A systematic review from Flinders University supports effective AI systems for cardiovascular care, providing more accurate diagnoses and proactive interventions. The study highlights the importance of strong governance, workforce readiness, and organisational support for sustainable implementation.
Fossils of a toothed platypus species, Obdurodon insignis, reveal that it lived 25 million years ago in a diverse ecosystem with other animals like lungfish, dolphins, and flamingos. The discovery provides new insights into the evolutionary history of modern platypuses.
New research on moiré patterns in ferroelectricity has revealed unusual electronic and optical effects, suggesting that these materials could play a crucial role in future low-energy nanoelectronics. The findings are promising for the development of high-performance computing technologies, such as brain-inspired computing systems.
Researchers have analyzed a 380 million-year-old fossil fish skull using high-tech neutron imaging, finding similarities with modern fish brains. The study also uncovered adaptations for life near water's surface, including air intake openings and light detection organs.
Researchers found strong evidence for supplements like beta-alanine, caffeine, carbohydrates, and creatine monohydrate to improve cycling performance. Supplements also support recovery, bone health, and immunity.
A new study reveals that nurse-delivered models of care can effectively manage common sleep problems like insomnia and OSA, but designing services with patients and staff is critical. The review found strong potential for GP nurses to deliver treatments like CBTi and support patients on CPAP machines.
A study reveals that older adults receiving government-funded home care struggle to access the support they need, often feeling overwhelmed by complex systems and limited budgets. The research highlights a significant gap in the program's capacity to provide person-centered care, particularly in areas like nutrition.
A multidisciplinary research team has discovered a novel antimicrobial material with impressive potency against various fungal and bacterial pathogens. The sulfur-rich polymer material overcomes previous limitations and shows promise as a low-cost, effective medicine and agrichemical solution.
Muttaburrasaurus, Australia's largest plant-eating dinosaur, had a unique toothy beak that allowed it to browse for specific leaves and seeds, and its inner ear suggests it may have walked on hind legs to crop food. The discovery also reveals a keen sense of smell, with large olfactory bulbs and complex air chambers in the nose.
Researchers have identified a fundamental mechanism underlying Sanfilippo syndrome, a common form of childhood dementia. Chronic overactivity in the brain appears to be a key contributor to cognitive deterioration in children with the condition. The study's findings represent significant progress and may lead to personalized treatment ...
Research from Flinders University finds that people with sleep apnea who experience dramatic night-to-night breathing problems are 30% more likely to have a heart attack or stroke. The studies suggest that repeated changes in oxygen levels and sleep disruption can quietly stress the heart and blood vessels over time.
Chronic breathlessness affects people's sex life, leading to reduced satisfaction and intimacy. People with breathlessness are 1.5 times more likely to report dissatisfaction with their overall sexual life.
New Flinders University research highlights the struggles faced by incarcerated veterans in Australia, citing a lifelong pattern of hardship, trauma, and missed support. The studies recommend steps for governments to take immediately to address these gaps and reduce re-offending.