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Flinders University


Remapping the superhighways travelled by the first Australians reveals a 10,000-year journey through the continent

Researchers used sophisticated models to estimate the peopling of Sahul, revealing a 10,000-year journey across the continent. The ancestors of Aboriginal people first entered the continent 75,000-50,000 years ago from Timor, expanding southward and northward to settle all parts of New Guinea and Australia.

SourceFlinders University·JournalQuaternary Science Reviews·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 2, 2023

Tracking down fake medicine makers using modern forensic DNA methods

Researchers at Flinders University and Lao-Oxford-Mahosot Hospital-Wellcome Trust Research Unit developed a new DNA tracking technique to identify counterfeit antimalarial medicines. The 'pharmabiome' method analyzes environmental DNA (eDNA) found in fake medicine packaging, revealing differences between genuine and substandard tablets.

SourceFlinders University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeImaging analysis·DateJan 29, 2023

Why Asia-Pacific tropical seas flourish with marine life

A new study reveals that transient wind events trigger significant phytoplankton blooms near tropical reef islands, creating a large network of marine ecosystems. This process, driven by coastal winds, fuels the production of phytoplankton and supports critical feeding habitats for migratory marine species.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Oceanography·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 19, 2023

At-home bowel cancer tests could help reduce colonoscopies

A new study found that multiple negative faecal immunochemical tests can significantly reduce the risk of advanced neoplasia in a colonoscopy surveillance program. This could lead to longer intervals between screenings for people at above-average risk, reducing the burden on healthcare systems.

SourceFlinders University·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 15, 2023

Chronic pain management program delivered by ‘coaches’ improves outcomes

A new study from Flinders University found that a telehealth program delivering individualized coaching improves self-management and reduces suffering for people with chronic pain. The program, called Rethinking Pain, provides access to care and support for those living in rural areas who face long wait times for specialist care.

SourceFlinders University·JournalPain and Therapy·TypeObservational study·DateJan 15, 2023

Breakthrough in fighting Legionnaires’ disease

A new study found Legionella bacteria in 41% of samples - with Flinders University researchers making a key connection between the pathogen's co-existence with a 'host' microorganism in all samples tested. The study highlights the need for improved management of water distribution systems to protect vulnerable populations.

SourceFlinders University·JournalWater Research·TypeObservational study·DateJan 13, 2023

Clinical trial shows boiled peanuts could help overcome child peanut allergy

A clinical trial found that boiling peanuts for up to 12 hours can desensitize children with peanut allergies. The therapy involved sequential doses of boiled and roasted peanuts, achieving high success rates in participants. While promising, the study's findings require confirmation in larger trials.

SourceFlinders University·JournalClinical & Experimental Allergy·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 11, 2023

Scientists call for better long-term groundwater controls in Australia

A study led by Flinders University has identified 18 challenges in Australia's sustainable use of groundwater, citing over-extraction and unregulated pumping as major contributors. The report calls for improved regional-scale volumetric water extraction limits and better stakeholder communications to address these challenges.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Hydrology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 11, 2022

Could a nasal spray treat sleep apnea?

A nasal spray has shown promising results in treating obstructive sleep apnea by preventing airway narrowing during sleep. The treatment, which targets specific receptors on the upper airways, improved airway stability and was well-tolerated in a small clinical trial.

SourceFlinders University·JournalCHEST Journal·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 8, 2022

Hunting brain cancer cells

A study published in Trends in Cancer suggests that targeting vulnerabilities in glioblastoma cancer cells, which maintain resemblance to the cells of origin, may lead to effective therapies. The research aims to identify ways to block these identity shifts and develop personalized treatments.

SourceFlinders University·JournalTrends in Cancer·TypeObservational study·DateNov 29, 2022

New polymer made from recycled waste has real magnetic appeal

Researchers at Flinders University have created a new multi-functional material that can be used to purify water, as a recyclable construction material, and as a lightweight machine component for possible use in soft robotics. The material combines magnetic iron particles with a sulfur-rich polymer and can be moved remotely by a magnet.

SourceFlinders University·JournalPolymer Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 12, 2022

Borderline personality disorder-related stigma undermines patient care and efforts to reduce suicide

A new review finds that people with borderline personality disorder face discrimination, inadequate treatment, and stigmatizing experiences in healthcare services. The authors call for improved training, education, and resources to address these issues and provide better support to patients and their families.

SourceFlinders University·JournalInternational Journal of Mental Health Systems·TypeLiterature review·DateOct 7, 2022

Reign of PNG’s megafauna lasted long after humans arrived

A new study re-examines fossil bones from the Nombe Rock Shelter in PNG Highlands and suggests that several large mammal species may have survived for another 40,000 years. The research challenges general assumptions about megafaunal extinction timelines and provides fresh insights into the natural history of PNG.

SourceFlinders University·JournalArchaeology in Oceania·TypeImaging analysis·DateOct 7, 2022

Promising medication for sleep apnoea

A new study from Flinders University has shown that reboxetine, previously used to treat depression, can reduce obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) severity. The study found that reboxetine alone reduces the number of sleep apnoea events per hour and improves oxygen levels.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Clinical Sleep Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 5, 2022

Counting cravings for coffee and soft drinks

A study by Flinders University found that stronger cravings for coffee and soft drinks are associated with increased consumption, especially for soft drinks. The study analyzed data from 128 participants aged 17-25 years old and found that water was the most craved beverage but not necessarily consumed more.

SourceFlinders University·JournalEating Behaviors·TypeSurvey·DateSep 13, 2022

Fix up Earth to exit COVID-19: Critical link between environment, pandemics

A new study by Flinders University researchers highlights the critical link between environmental degradation and pandemics, emphasizing the need for urgent ecosystem restoration efforts to aid in COVID-19 recovery. The study suggests that up to 95% of land on Earth will be degraded by 2050 if effective measures are not taken.

SourceFlinders University·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·TypeObservational study·DateSep 8, 2022

How the gut may help to drive COVID-19

New research from Flinders University found a molecular link between COVID-19 and serotonin cells in the gut. The study suggests that these cells synthesise and release serotonin, which is highly enriched for SARS-CoV-2 receptors, potentially worsening disease outcomes.

SourceFlinders University·JournalGut·TypeObservational study·DateAug 31, 2022

Revealing roles of dementia proteins in normal memory

A recent study has identified the tau protein's involvement in normal learning and memory processes in the healthy brain. The researchers used proximity labelling to map out all proteins that interact with tau and found that it interacts with enzymes controlling vesicles and cell surface receptors for neurotransmitters.

SourceFlinders University·JournalThe EMBO Journal·TypeObservational study·DateAug 22, 2022

Self-reported insomnia and sleep apnoea a risky combo

A new Flinders University analysis found that people reporting symptoms of both insomnia and obstructive sleep apnea are at an increased risk of death compared to those without the conditions. The study highlights the importance of self-reported symptoms and risk factors, and could lead to greater and more rapid assessment in populatio...

SourceFlinders University·JournalSleep Epidemiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 22, 2022

Sea secrets surface in the Great Australian Bight

Oceanographers have discovered substantial subsurface phytoplankton layers deep beneath the eastern part of the Great Australian Bight, supporting rich marine biodiversity. This finding explains how the region's productivity survives even when surface phytoplankton blooms disappear during certain upwelling seasons.

SourceFlinders University·JournalContinental Shelf Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 17, 2022

Services combine for homeless solution

The 'Aspire' program has shown significant success in providing stable housing and comprehensive supports to individuals experiencing chronic homelessness. After three years, 575 participants have found secure housing and are on the path to a better life.

SourceFlinders University·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 31, 2022

Genomics study of snapper finds three populations

A large genomic study of snapper has identified three distinct oceanic snapper populations between Shark Bay and Ceduna in South Australia. The populations are genetically distinct and have unique geographical ranges, suggesting that snapper can make long-distance movements.

SourceFlinders University·JournalEvolutionary Applications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 30, 2022

Let's talk about sex, baby

A recent study from Flinders University reveals that engaging with infants during crib-side visits is the biggest disincentive to parents' sexual frequency. Parents who spend more time with their infant at night report having sex less often.

SourceFlinders University·JournalThe Journal of Sex Research·TypeObservational study·DateJul 30, 2022

Building bricks from waste materials

Scientists create polymer bricks made from waste cooking oil and industrial byproducts, eliminating the need for mortar in traditional building methods. The new material's sulfur-sulfur bond produces a strong, sustainable construction material with potential to streamline construction.

SourceFlinders University·JournalMacromolecular Chemistry and Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 30, 2022

COVID-19 challenge to new abortion laws

Researchers warn that the new abortion decriminalisation laws in South Australia are hindered by a lack of GP training and registration, which may lead to unequal access to safe abortion services. The authors argue that GPs must be advised on how to implement the law effectively, particularly in rural areas where resources are scarce.

SourceFlinders University·JournalInternational Journal for Crime Justice and Social Democracy·TypeObservational study·DateJul 30, 2022

Critical oncology trial data remains hidden

A multi-national study found that over half of clinical trials leading to FDA-approved anticancer medicines are not available for independent scrutiny. The lack of transparency hinders the use of data for further research into the safety and efficacy of medicines.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJAMA Oncology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 28, 2022

Home and hospital healthcare could be in 'hot water'

A new study by Flinders University experts warns that some drinking water treatment methods may be ineffective against certain waterborne pathogens, posing a threat to immune-compromised individuals. Regular maintenance checks and cleaning of shower and tap faucets can help reduce the risk of waterborne infections in home care.

SourceFlinders University·JournalCurrent Opinion in Infectious Diseases·TypeObservational study·DateJul 20, 2022

Vulture claws back into history

A new study published in Zootaxa confirms the discovery of Australia's first fossil vulture, Cryptogyps lacertosus, which lived during the late Pleistocene period. The bird was a scavenger, not a hunter, and its presence highlights the diversity of Australian megafauna and ecosystem implications.

SourceFlinders University·JournalZootaxa·TypeObservational study·DateJul 19, 2022

How to find 'good oil' at sea

Scientists at Flinders University have discovered a simple and effective method to extract high-value bioactives from single-cell algae oil using waste sulfur. This process can enrich saturated triglycerides, which are valuable for various applications, including biodiesel production.

SourceFlinders University·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 17, 2022

A look inside ancient fish heads

A study comparing ancient lungfish fossils to modern brain structures reveals the evolutionary history of these ancient fish. The research suggests that lungfish relied on their sense of smell to navigate environments, unlike other fish that use sight more powerfully.

SourceFlinders University·JournaleLife·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 12, 2022

First major dolphin DNA study

A comprehensive census of common dolphin populations along Australia's southern coastline has identified key pointers for future conservation efforts. The study highlights the importance of preserving adaptive DNA diversity and promoting connectivity between dolphin groups to support long-term gene flow and adaptation.

SourceFlinders University·JournalBMC Ecology and Evolution·TypeSurvey·DateJul 12, 2022