A three-week online self-compassion meditation program significantly increased body appreciation, positive wellbeing, and reduced self-judgement in Australian adults. The benefits persisted six weeks after the program ended, regardless of daily practice frequency.
A major international study found that cortisol plays a normal and potentially supportive role in female reproductive cycles, increasing around ovulation. The review of 70 studies across the animal kingdom suggests that cortisol is not the enemy of reproduction, but rather a natural part of healthy ovarian cycles.
A new study suggests that players with color vision deficiency struggle to see the pink ball around dusk, making batting and fielding more difficult. The research found that different types of color vision deficiency create different challenges for seeing the ball, depending on the ball's color, condition, background, and time of day.
Fossils discovered in southern Africa have confirmed the first appearance of Homo erectus, which is believed to be directly ancestral to modern humans. The findings also reveal micro-evolutionary changes in P. robustus, a species that lived in the same landscape as Homo erectus.
A study by La Trobe University researchers found that exercise-based rehabilitation and education can reduce the chance of knee osteoarthritis following ACL reconstruction in people aged under 40, improving pain and quality of life. The intervention is safe and should be recommended to improve knee health in young people at high risk o...
New research from La Trobe University finds that injury or pain affects participation in social sport for one in five physically inactive women. Inactive women from lower-income households are more likely to be injury-affected, with knee, lower back, and ankle injuries being the most common complaints.
A new study by La Trobe University found that families navigating family courts amid family violence face substantial costs, including legal services, healthcare, counseling, and security measures. The average expenditure per parent is over $41,000 a year, with mothers carrying the greatest security and healthcare costs.
A new AI tool developed by La Trobe University researchers can analyze routine pathology slides to predict stage-two bowel cancer patients at risk of relapse. The study analyzed over 1600 pathology slides and validated the findings across 1220 patients in three independent cohorts.
Scientists at La Trobe University discovered lipid droplets play a critical role in the body's early detection and defence against viruses. The study found these fatty structures can stop viruses from spreading by changing their structure and signalling to the immune system.
A culturally tailored midwifery model of care has been shown to improve perinatal outcomes for First Nations babies, including a 45% increase in healthy births and higher breastfeeding rates. The study found that continuity of care with a known midwife reduces disparities in birth outcomes.
A global report warns of a looming shortage of nearly 100 million cancer care workers by 2050, driven by rising cancer rates and workforce gaps. This will place significant strain on health systems worldwide, particularly in nursing and diagnostic roles.
La Trobe University researchers developed a new way to measure and report farm environmental performance using Farm-scale Natural Capital Accounting. The method combines production data, remote sensing, ecological modeling, and on-ground assessments to deliver transparent and verifiable farm-scale accounts.
A world-leading toolkit has been launched to better identify and support Autistic adults at risk of suicide. The toolkit, developed by La Trobe University researchers, provides validated neuro-affirming tools to improve understanding, communication, screening, and support for Autistic adults in distress.
Researchers developed a single-use test strip detecting microRNAs in blood plasma, outperforming standard laboratory methods. The biosensor amplifies electrical signals to identify disease-indicative molecules at concentrations up to a trillion times lower than glucose.
A new study published in British Journal of Cancer found that reducing annual alcohol consumption by one litre per person could lower mortality from several major cancers. The strongest impacts were seen in people aged 50 and older, with estimates suggesting a substantial reduction in cancer-related deaths without preventive action.
A portable biosensor developed at La Trobe University can rapidly detect toxic per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in water. The device provides a simple yes or no result, allowing for quick and easy screening of water samples, particularly in regional and remote areas where monitoring is challenging.
Researchers discovered a molecular 'safety switch' shielding cancers from immune attack; blocking the TAK1 gene makes cancer cells easier to eliminate. This finding may improve existing cancer immunotherapies and offer new treatment options for patients.
A non-invasive method has been developed to monitor hormone levels in frogs, providing valuable insights into their wellbeing. This technology uses tiny patches that collect hormone-rich secretions from frog skin, marking a major step forward in amphibian monitoring.
The FAIR Consensus Statement offers practical recommendations to reduce injury risk and improve safety in female, woman, and girl athletes. The guidelines mandate sport-specific strength exercises, enforced fair play, and proper equipment use to prevent injuries.
A combination of immunotherapy drugs shows improved response rates and long-lasting tumor suppression in patients with mismatch repair-deficient and microsatellite instability-high cancers. The results broaden treatment options for these biologically aggressive cancers.
Research from La Trobe University reveals 'broken' genes as a common factor in marsupial fur color. The study found missing DNA stretches disabling the Agouti Signalling Protein gene in black morph eastern quolls and Tasmanian devils, leading to unique coat colors.
Australian researchers have discovered that common nervous system components, neuropeptides and their receptors, drive tumour growth in gastrointestinal cancers. Drugs targeting these components, already used to treat migraines, may be repurposed as cancer treatments, providing promising new avenues for treatment.
Researchers uncover new understanding of cell death and renewal by discovering a previously unknown type of Extracellular Vesicle (EV) that marks the site of a dead cell. This 'footprint of death' helps the immune system identify and clean up cell fragments, but viruses can hijack this process to spread infection.
A global analysis reveals that up to one in three women report living with a heavy-drinking partner, while children exposed to men's harmful drinking face increased risk of violence and poor health. The review emphasizes the need for gender-responsive policies and interventions to address these harms.
Cancer rehabilitation programs in Australia have more than doubled since 2015, yet many survivors face barriers to accessing exercise-based care. According to a national survey, nearly half of respondents cite lack of funding as a challenge to program sustainability.
Scientists from La Trobe University and Kumamoto University have identified an internal protein particle hidden within the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which can trigger a strong immune response in killer T cells.
A new study from La Trobe University found that knee crepitus, a common symptom of grinding or clicking sounds in the knee joint, does not predict joint damage over time. In fact, those with knee crepitus showed more severe symptoms early on but did not experience worsening pain and function in the long term.
Researchers have identified a group of proteins known as the GATOR1 complex as essential tumour suppressors that play critical roles in preventing lymphoma development. Disruption of these genes promotes lymphoma development and existing drugs targeting the same cellular pathways were highly effective at slowing growth.
A study analyzed 100 TikTok videos on contraceptive health, finding that over half rejected hormonal birth control and a third expressed distrust in health professionals. Fertility awareness and cycle tracking were the most frequently discussed subjects, often without disclosing limitations or promoting ineffective methods.
Scientists at La Trobe University have developed a powerful new material that can conduct electricity as well as metals, making it ideal for wearable technologies like medical devices. The new technique uses hyaluronic acid to create a thin, durable film that is flexible and scalable.
Researchers have discovered that a single mutation in the DNA sequence for methylation enzyme DNMT3A causes faulty gene expression, leading to increased blood cancer risk. This finding confirms DNMT3A as a potential target for effective blood cancer treatment.
Researchers at La Trobe University have discovered how enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC) bacteria use a molecular toxin called EspC to destroy gut cells. This breakthrough could lead to the development of targeted drugs to combat EPEC infections and their devastating consequences, including severe dehydration and death.
Superb lyrebirds are resourceful farmers, creating habitats suitable for their diet of worms, centipedes, and spiders. By arranging litter and soil, they promote more prey in areas with simulated lyrebird foraging.
Researchers at La Trobe University's Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute have developed a novel pre-clinical model expressing an enhanced version of the Cas12a enzyme, which can delete multiple genes simultaneously with high efficiency. This breakthrough enables complex genetic disorders to be modeled and interrogated.
A new genetic regulator, known as Fixation Under Nitrate (FUN), has been identified in legume plants that reduces their ability to convert atmospheric nitrogen into usable nutrients. Removing the FUN gene allows legumes to fix nitrogen regardless of soil nitrate levels.
Researchers discovered a novel insecticidal protein in ferns that protects major crop plants from pests and is naturally produced by plants. The protein has features in common with known Bt proteins used extensively in agriculture for insect control.
A recent study found that integrated clinics can improve health outcomes and reduce costs for patients with multiple chronic conditions. The INTE-Africa study showed that retention rates were close to 90% and viral suppression rates remained unchanged, highlighting the benefits of integrating HIV and non-communicable disease care.
Researchers have discovered that gamma delta T cells are crucial to preventing bowel cancer. The study found that patients with higher concentrations of these immune cells had better outcomes and improved survival rates.
The Thai-HIP intervention has been shown to increase the physical health of people with early psychosis by addressing various health issues such as poor dental health, physical inactivity, and diet. By involving family members in care planning, the program ensures better adherence to the planned physical health program.
A recent study published in the Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society revealed that orchids exhibit highly specialised pollination strategies, with over 75% of species dependent on pollinators for reproduction. Many orchid species use deceit to attract pollinators, including food deception and sexual deception.
Researchers have discovered the molecular structure of a new toxin class, Ssp, capable of entering and killing human cells. The discovery offers insights into developing targeted inhibitors to combat infections caused by Serratia marcescens, a pathogen with high antibiotic resistance.
Researchers from La Trobe University observed freshwater turtles exhibiting nocturnal basking habits in various locations around the world. The study found that this behavior is widespread among several turtle species and occurs mainly in tropical and subtropical regions, where water temperatures remain warm at night.
A new study by La Trobe University researchers reveals how crocodiles resist fatal fungal infections using a unique pH sensing mechanism. The findings provide a model for understanding the anti-microbial activity of other defensins, including those in humans.
La Trobe University researchers developed a smart microscope slide that can detect cancer cells using enhanced color contrast. The technology uses nanoscale modifications to distinguish cancer cells from normal tissue, making early diagnosis more efficient.
An Australian study found that formal flexible work arrangements alone are not enough to meet the demands of working mothers and fathers. Informal 'catch-up' strategies, such as performing family-related tasks at work or leaving early, were common among parents. The researchers recommend employers provide transparent information about ...
Researchers discovered that restoring BMP4 activity blocks distant metastasis in multiple organs, including the lung and bone. High levels of BMP4 are associated with better patient outcomes.
La Trobe University researchers found introducing a minimum unit price of $1.30 per standard drink in Australia could dramatically reduce alcohol consumption. This policy, already proven successful in Canada and Eastern Europe, could see a 10.7% fall in overall consumption and a 14.2% reduction among harmful drinkers.
New research at La Trobe University has identified genetic variations that determine the effects of methamphetamine in the brain. These findings may lead to new therapies for people affected by long-term methamphetamine use, which can cause psychosis similar to schizophrenia.
A major study has identified seven key themes to inform strategies for supporting Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander parents in the first years of their children's lives. The research aims to break the cycle of intergenerational and complex trauma experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
A comprehensive review of 53 studies found no evidence that changing a runner's strike pattern reduces injury risk or improves performance. Running on the front of feet may make runners less efficient in the short term.