A team of researchers successfully reconstructed anthropic influences on sedimentation in the ancient harbour of Portus, a complex of harbour basins and canals that formed the hub of commerce in the Roman Empire. The findings suggest that the Romans were proactively managing their river systems earlier than previously thought.
Researchers have discovered the precise mechanism behind 5-Fluorouracil resistance in cancer, revealing a previously unknown protein called BOK as the key to understanding this phenomenon. Without BOK, cancer cells become dormant and can survive chemotherapy treatment before mutating into more aggressive forms.
Researchers discovered that specific genes are turned off and on in the brain and gonad to facilitate sex change, a process linked to cellular memory and epigenetic reprogramming. The study sheds light on how environmental factors influence gene expression in animals, including humans.
Researchers at La Trobe University have discovered a protein that can sense vital phosphorus levels in plants and adjust growth and flowering accordingly. This breakthrough has the potential to reduce fertiliser wastage and improve crop efficiency, leading to significant environmental and economic benefits for farmers.
A La Trobe University study found that peer-led support programs for carers significantly improved carer well-being, reducing psychological distress by 8.6% and increasing positive feelings by 7.6%. The program also increased carers' knowledge of mental health conditions and improved communication with the person they care for.
Researchers are calling for a shift in river management to prioritize long-term risk assessment and adaptive management. The current tools are no longer effective due to increasing climatic uncertainty, and new models must be able to anticipate future shocks and manage biodiversity.
The sixth National Survey of Australian Secondary Students and Sexual Health found 47% of sexually active respondents had engaged in intercourse, with 76% having sex at home. The survey also showed that young Australians have good knowledge of sexual health, are behaving responsibly, and are actively seeking out trusted sources of info...
A La Trobe University study has found significant levels of fatigue and poor brain function can persist after concussion, with implications for diagnosis and treatment of persistent post-concussion syndrome (PCS). The study used innovative brain technology to assess brain functioning in a way that has never been done before.
Researchers from La Trobe University and the University of Queensland discovered how UpaB protein in bacteria sticks to human body parts, enabling new anti-microbial development opportunities. The study provides fundamental science that could inform future solutions to the global problem of antibiotic resistance.
A large Australian study has identified key factors contributing to poor mental health among bisexual individuals, including relationships with straight partners and negative self-perceptions. The research highlights a significant need for support and education to improve the mental well-being of bisexual Australians.
A La Trobe University study has found that wildlife restores itself after bushfires, but the surrounding habitat determines which species survive. The research highlights the importance of considering landscape context when planning strategic burns to protect native wildlife.
A new study found that 10% of Australians drink an average of six standard drinks per day, consuming 54.4% of all alcohol consumed in the country. This group is more likely to drink cheap alcohol and experience negative health effects.
International study finds sushi consumers willing to try crickets and beetles, gateway food theory holds true. Edible insect consumption linked to increased openness to new foods.
An Australian study found that regular telephone support from experienced breastfeeders increased breastfeeding rates among first-time mothers by 75%, compared to 69% in the control group. The program also improved mothers' ability to cope with challenges, leading to a significant increase in exclusive breastfeeding at six months.
Researchers at La Trobe University and CSIRO found that early sowing of winter wheats can increase Australian wheat crop yields and global food security. The approach could add $1.8 billion to the national economy, with potential yield increases of 20%.
A team of Australian scientists has discovered that the cassowary's distinctive helmet-like structure acts as a thermal window to regulate body temperature. The research provides new insights into the bird's ability to cope with high temperatures, and may have implications for our understanding of dinosaur physiology.
New research reveals that plants are highly sensitive to touch, with repeated touching retarding growth by up to 30%. The study found that a major genetic defense response is triggered within 30 minutes of being touched, altering 10% of the plant's genome.
A study by La Trobe University found that Fitbits have good-to-excellent reliability for measuring running speeds between 8-14kms/h. The accuracy of the device was also confirmed in a slow motion visual count, with a difference of less than one per cent.
A new study categorizes Australian land mammals by their susceptibility to predation by feral cats and red foxes, revealing 63 of the 100 surviving mammal species are highly susceptible. The most vulnerable species include potoroos, bandicoots, bettongs, native rodents, and several marsupial species.
A three-year study found that children with autism improved in various skills, including social interaction and vocal skills, when taught alongside typically developing peers. The results suggest that mainstream pre-schools can provide suitable environments for supporting children with autism.
A clinical trial found that eating fish twice a week as part of a Mediterranean diet can significantly decrease lung inflammation in children with mild asthma. The study involved 64 children from Greece and showed improved lung function after six months.
A recent study by La Trobe University found that Australians are re-evaluating their relationship with alcohol, with younger adults being key drivers of change. The research revealed that 30% of Aussies have reduced their drink intake and 6% have quit drinking altogether.
Researchers found high immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels among babies born in October and December in Melbourne, indicating a potential link between maternal exposure to grass pollen and increased risk of respiratory diseases. Conversely, being pregnant for an entire grass pollen season may have a protective effect on babies.
A study by La Trobe University found that cutting back on tobacco and alcohol consumption as a population would significantly reduce future cancer deaths. Reducing smoking by half a kilogram less annually per capita could lower cancer deaths by 8%, while reducing drinking by three litres less annually per capita could lower them by 12%.
Research reveals a significant rise in postpartum haemorrhage in Victoria, with one in five women experiencing primary blood loss after childbirth. The study highlights the need for improved monitoring and treatment protocols to address this concerning trend.
A team of La Trobe University scientists has discovered a peptide found in the flowers of the ornamental tobacco plant Nicotiana alata that can target and destroy Candida albicans cells, making it a promising lead for developing a new class of antibiotics.
Researchers discovered that muscles use acidosis to maintain proper nerve signal response, avoiding fatigue. By peeling away the muscle fiber's surface membrane, the team studied the effects of acidity on force response, finding it counteracts fatigue at a critical step in excitation-contraction-coupling.