A new study by Flinders University found that abstention from alcohol is on the rise, particularly among younger cohorts, with Generation Z nearly 20 times more likely to choose not to drink compared to Baby Boomers. The study suggests a clear generational shift, with declining weekly alcohol consumption and changing social norms drivi...
Researchers have found that tiny worms can help understand how memories fade, with dopamine playing a major role. Without dopamine, the worms held onto memories longer than usual, revealing that forgetting is a finely tuned process essential for staying focused and flexible.
Researchers found bite-resistant materials in wetsuits can reduce damage from large white and tiger sharks, even from moderate and severe bites. The study suggests these suits can save lives by reducing blood loss and trauma from major lacerations and punctures.
A Flinders University study suggests schools can be emotionally unsafe spaces where social hierarchies and exclusion shape student feelings and belonging. The research highlights the role of bullying and undesirable social connections in fostering loneliness among young people.
A large, mostly disease-free koala population on Kangaroo Island carries a genetic legacy that may make it harder to survive future threats. The population's limited genetic diversity and high inbreeding increase the risk of fertility and developmental problems.
A recent study suggests that high levels of folic acid during pregnancy may increase the risk of gestational diabetes. The research highlights the need for a safe upper limit for folic acid intake and improved guidelines for supplementation. The study's findings are based on over 2,000 women and were published in the journal Nutrients.
A new study found that Australian women of reproductive age taking GLP-1 receptor agonists are not using effective contraception, despite known risks during pregnancy. The research revealed a higher risk of pregnancy among younger women with diabetes and those without diabetes in their early thirties.
Researchers found that methotrexate significantly lowers systolic blood pressure in people with rheumatoid arthritis. The study suggests that this could be a new benefit of the drug beyond its usual role in treating inflammation, and may also provide protection against heart disease.
A new study reveals that more than half of affected women consider terminating their pregnancy due to extreme morning sickness, with high rates of anxiety and depression. The condition is linked to significant disruptions in daily life and a need for personalized care.
Researchers develop biodegradable film using calcium caseinate, modified starch and nanoclay for sustainable food packaging. The film breaks down within 13 weeks in normal soil conditions, offering a potential solution to reduce plastic waste.
A study by Flinders University and experts in China found that herbal additives can benefit fish immunity in juvenile barramundi. However, testing revealed potential toxicity to other marine species, raising concerns about their ecological impacts.
A major international review found that targeted approaches such as regular supervised exercise, vitamin D supplements, and improved nutrition can significantly reduce falls in aged care homes. The study also highlights the importance of individualized programs delivered with strong staff engagement.
The global study found that women are having babies later in life, increasing health risks and widening inequalities in maternal care. The average age of first-time mothers has steadily increased, with many now starting their families aged 35 years or over.
Researchers from Flinders University found a consistent increase in Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) severity on weekends, driven by lifestyle choices and irregular sleep patterns. Maintaining a regular sleep routine is crucial to combat social apnea, which can lead to serious health conditions like heart disease, depression, and dementia.
A recent study reveals that nearly 60% of people with hearing loss feel embarrassed or uncomfortable sharing their struggles, while professionals often focus on stigma around hearing aids. The research highlights the need to challenge outdated stereotypes and encourages open conversations about hearing loss.
A new study from Flinders University explores why self-forgiveness can be difficult for some, even when it may benefit mental health. Researchers found that people who struggled to forgive themselves often replayed the moment, felt stuck in the past, and experienced intense emotions like guilt and regret.
Researchers found people with both types of polyps are up to five times more likely to develop advanced pre-cancerous changes. The study supports growing evidence that these two types may represent separate cancer pathways.
A study found that trigger warnings have little effect on students' perception of instructors and classroom environments. In contrast, safe space messages foster a positive atmosphere, increasing feelings of comfort, trustworthiness, and openness to discussion.
A new study finds that climate change is expected to increase the risk of diarrheal diseases across South and Southeast Asia, posing serious health threats to millions of children. Improved access to maternal education and targeted health policies can help families protect their children.
A new study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that commercially available UV-C light appliances reduced rates of viral respiratory infections by more than 12% in aged care facilities. The technology is easily installed and cost-effective, making it a transformative solution for protecting residents from emerging pathogens.
Researchers developed a new framework to compare 15 different mitigation measures on the Gold Coast, revealing that a combination of strategies is most effective at reducing shark bites. The study found that non-lethal real-time shark alerts and traditional strategies like SMART drumlines are key to reducing risk.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found telehealth reduces hospital visits, improves mental health, and increases social engagement. However, Medicare's in-person requirement excludes many truly homebound individuals.
Researchers found that specific gaze sequences, including looking at an object and making eye contact, are crucial for effective communication. This discovery has implications for social robot development and non-verbal communication training.
A study of tree pollen records in Northern Australia reveals a 150,000-year record of monsoon patterns, showing a potential intensification of the monsoon system due to climate change. This could lead to increased flooding in Australia and droughts in East Asia.
A new study in iScience journal reveals new insights into the lives of 380-million-year-old lungfish, shedding light on their diet and predatory powers. The research uses high-tech examination of fossilized jawbones to evaluate how multiple species co-existed in a tropical prehistoric ecosystem.
A new Flinders University study has mapped the distribution of killer whales in Australian waters, identifying three key regions with high habitat suitability. The research highlights the need for stronger conservation measures to protect these unique populations as apex predators in the marine ecosystem.
A new online program aims to improve body image and wellbeing for people with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). The 10-module program uses mindfulness techniques, cognitive behavioural therapy, and self-compassion training to help patients overcome negative thought patterns and social comparisons.
A new study explores the role of sleep in elite male cyclists during the Tour de France, finding that riders pushing hardest tend to sleep less and report lower quality sleep. Despite this, most riders still manage to get more than 8 hours of sleep per night.
A Flinders University study found that providing consistent support and access to nicotine replacement therapies can help people in recovery quit smoking. The trial showed that both vapes and combination therapy were effective, with around 10% of participants abstaining from smoking at the nine-month follow-up.
An interdisciplinary team at Flinders University has developed a safer and more sustainable approach to extract and recover gold from ore and electronic waste. The new method uses a low-cost and benign compound to extract gold, which can then be selectively bound to a novel sulfur-rich polymer, allowing for high-purity gold recovery.
The study found that sleep schedules differ between weekdays and weekends, with most people catching up on lost sleep over the weekend. Seasonal changes also play a bigger role than expected, with people sleeping more in winter and less during summer months. Irregular sleep can be linked to adverse health risks.
Research on translocating the endemic pygmy bluetongue lizard to cooler, greener locations aims to improve its survival chances. The study found that while acclimatization may take longer than two years, these lizards can cope with translocation as a mitigation strategy in the long term.
A new study reveals that cancer-fighting immunotherapy drugs may offer benefits to organ transplant recipients with advanced cancer when carefully managed. The study found that about one in three patients responded positively to treatment within a year, with improved survival outcomes comparable to the general population.
A study of nearly 400 former Australian Defence Force members found widespread dissatisfaction with their discharge experience. Many veterans felt disrespected, mistreated or abused during their discharge from the ADF, leading to long-term psychological consequences.
A recent study found that nearly 400 former Australian Defence Force members experienced negative discharge experiences, with many feeling disrespected, mistreated, or abused. The research highlights the need for reform to prevent long-term psychological harm and provides preliminary evidence suggesting that transition-related identity...
The 'Ozboneviz' virtual database provides 3D imaging technology to explore the remarkable features of Australia's wildlife, including extinct species. The collection includes over 1600 specimens, with many bones digitized using surface scanners or computed tomography.
A new study by Flinders University highlights the importance of a 'whole-club' approach to youth mental health promotion in sporting clubs. The research found that initiatives often focus on coaches alone, but must be embedded in club culture and routines to create lasting change.
Researchers at Flinders University found that blue-enriched light can make people less sensitive to losses, leading to riskier gambling behaviors. The study suggests that reducing blue light exposure could be a potential strategy to mitigate impulsive gambling.
New research reveals complex challenges Aboriginal people face when seeking support after a road traffic injury, including lack of awareness and culturally insensitive systems. The study calls for a national overhaul of compensation and return-to-work programs centered on Indigenous knowledge and cultural determinants of health.
Bariatric surgery, a critical tool for combating obesity, is under threat in Australia due to skyrocketing indemnity insurance premiums. The study found that surgeons are being penalized by rising premiums, forcing some to reconsider their future in the field.
Newly discovered fossil tracks in Australia indicate that reptiles originated on land around 350 million years ago, pushing back their evolution by 35-40 million years. This discovery provides significant insights into the early evolution of tetrapods and challenges previous records of their emergence.
Experts warn of lack of transparency and potential political manipulation with ADM systems, calling for coherent regulation and framework to address concerns. A regulatory foundation is needed to evolve with changing technologies.
A new study reveals that harriers have independently evolved owl-like traits in their ear and brain anatomy, allowing them to locate prey by sound. This discovery provides insights into how birds perceive their surroundings and may contribute to bird conservation efforts.
Flinders University researchers found that most people, regardless of age, want more frequent bowel cancer surveillance. A faecal test may provide reassurance for those at risk, particularly younger adults with a higher fear of bowel cancer.
A new report from Flinders University reveals that Australia is facing a silent public health crisis due to poor sleep habits. The report outlines four priority actions to address the issue and calls for urgent action from policymakers to bring sleep to the forefront of the country's health agenda.
A new study reveals that Australian women veterans experience gendered disempowerment and abuse within military service and transition, with experts calling for more support systems. The study found a 107% higher suicide rate among ex-serving female ADF members compared to the general population.
A new study developed a method to measure evapotranspiration in the understorey of native forests, which can contribute up to 50% of ecosystem water use. The research aims to improve management decisions for water scarce resources in Australia.
A new international study reveals that cultural and family influences shape body image differently across societies. Middle-Eastern women reported stronger body appreciation compared to their Western counterparts, potentially reflecting cultural values and close relationships that promote self-acceptance.
A new study published in Royal Society Open Science explores the relationship between individual personality and song complexity in wild superb fairy-wrens. The research suggests that both male and female birds can advertise their personality traits when singing, which may be important for mate choice.
Researchers at Flinders University demonstrate how the Earth's magnetic field influences fluid flow, creating exciting possibilities for nano-processing and sustainable green chemistry. The study reveals that fluid flow coupled with magnetic fields can result in the preference of one chirality over the other.