A soft-drink tax has been found to be an effective way to reduce consumption and lead to significant weight losses. The study estimated that middle-income heavy consumers would lose up to 3.64 kg, making it a cost-effective solution for obesity prevention.
Researchers have discovered a key gene mutation responsible for impaired mental function in children with intellectual disabilities. TUBB5 is essential for healthy brain development, and mutations can cause problems with normal fetal brain development.
A new study published in PNAS reveals how the GAD65 protein changes shape when activated, potentially linking it to type 1 diabetes. The research found that antibodies interact with the protein differently depending on its state, which may affect vaccine development for the disease.
A multi-disciplinary team from Monash University has been awarded a $275,000 grant to develop strategies for reducing diesel particulate matter (DPM) emissions in underground coalmines. The project will explore ways to improve the service life of DPFs and potentially replace diesel engines with electric motors.
A seven-year study of pregnant women taking antipsychotics found that 43% of babies needed special care after birth, with increased rates of premature birth, respiratory distress and withdrawal symptoms. The study highlights the need for clearer health guidelines on using antipsychotic medication during pregnancy.
Associate Professor David Newman is a world leader in aviation medicine, receiving the 2014 John Paul Stapp Award for his work in aerospace biomechanics. He has made significant contributions to the field of aviation safety, focusing on pilot fitness and aviation-related health issues.
Monash University is set to lead initiatives in Indonesia and China through the Australian Centre for Indonesia Studies and Shenzhen-Monash Cooperation Agreement. The university aims to drive health-related research and commercial partnerships with these countries.
Researchers found that cardiac fibroblasts are unique cells with organ-specific functions and can be used in replacement therapies for congenital heart disease and heart failure. They have specific genes that tell them to become heart cells, making them a promising alternative to heart transplants.
Researchers at Monash University have modelled a carbon-based spaser that could enable the creation of ultra-thin mobile phones printed on clothing. The device offers advantages such as high temperatures resistance, eco-friendliness, and flexibility, paving the way for innovative applications in telecommunications.
A new study by Monash University has shown that gastric banding can lead to remission of diabetes in people who are overweight but not obese. The research, published in The Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology, found that weight loss surgery significantly improved the condition in over half of participants.
A healthy diet may improve health outcomes in older adults, reducing hospital stays, but increases spending on outpatient services and preventive care. The study highlights the need for nutrition policies that address socioeconomic disparities.
Researchers have discovered the biochemical trigger that wakes up immune cells, allowing them to target invading bacteria and fungi. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for inflammatory bowel disease, peptic ulcers, and even TB.
Researchers at Monash University developed a new class of drug targeting alternative recognition sites on GPCRs to fine-tune protein behavior, reducing damage and potential side effects. The breakthrough could lead to the creation of a new treatment for heart attacks and heart failure.
A Taiwanese study found that high-quality diets among children are correlated with those of their elders, regardless of factors such as household income and parental education. The researchers suggest that grandparents may play a significant role in influencing food habits across generations.
Researchers have developed a new global map to predict giant earthquakes at subduction zones, including the Australian region. The study identified several regions capable of producing massive earthquakes, while others are not predicted to experience such events.
Researchers at Monash University have isolated muscle precursor cells from pluripotent stem cells using a purification technique, allowing them to differentiate into muscle cells. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new treatments for degenerative diseases such as Muscular Dystrophy and Parkinson's disease.
Researchers from Monash University and RMIT University found that Himalayan flowers evolved to attract bees as pollinators in response to bee colour vision. The study reveals the impact of climate change on plant-pollinator interactions in mountainous environments.
Researchers have found that blocking two proteins on smooth muscle cells can cause complete male infertility without affecting long-term sexual behavior. A potential oral male contraceptive drug could be developed within ten years, offering a safe and reversible alternative to current methods.
Researchers found a new mechanism regulating the earliest stages of embryo development, where arm-like structures called filopodia control cell shape and compaction. The discovery could help improve IVF treatment outcomes by identifying suitable embryos for implantation.
Researchers at Monash University have combined computer modelling with pharmacology to gain new insights into how the body interacts with novel drug treatments. The study reveals alternative drug recognition sites on G protein-coupled receptors, which play a role in virtually every biological process and most diseases.
The research team will investigate ways to reduce the burden of illness associated with prematurity by improving air-breathing transition and delaying umbilical cord clamping. They aim to develop strategies to prevent brain injury and long-term consequences such as cerebral palsy.
Researchers link brain atrophy to cognitive decline in Type 2 diabetes, challenging previous assumptions. Brain atrophy is found to be the primary cause of cognitive impairment associated with T2DM, exceeding cerebrovascular lesions.
Monash University researchers discovered a safety mechanism that regulates the activation of marginal zone B cells, which can turn against the body. The study found that MZ B cells have a short life span and are triggered by bacteria to express a protein called TACI.
Scientists have mapped the structure of a protein that helps bacteria evade the immune system. Understanding this protein, called BamA, could lead to new treatments for diseases like gonorrhoea and chanchroid. The discovery brings researchers closer to stopping infection before it takes hold.
Researchers at Monash University create magnesium alloy with reduced corrosion rates by adding arsenic, a cathodic poison. This breakthrough could lead to widespread adoption of lightweight magnesium in transportation industries.
Researchers at Monash University have developed a new strategy for engineering supercapacitors, making them viable for widespread use in renewable energy storage and electric vehicles. The device achieves an unprecedented energy density of 60 Watt-hours per litre, comparable to lead-acid batteries.
Researchers have characterised the binding of IFNβ proteins to cells, providing a breakthrough in understanding immune response mechanisms. This study offers new avenues for developing treatments with reduced side effects and improved effectiveness.
Researchers at Monash University have developed an ionic liquid-based thermocell that can harness waste heat from power stations and vehicle exhaust pipes to generate electricity.
Researchers from Monash University have compiled and analyzed worldwide copper resources, finding existing supplies can meet growing demand for a long time. The extensive database provides detailed information on ore grades, allowing for more informed geological exploration and improved industry practices.
A new subduction zone has been detected off the coast of Portugal, marking the beginning of a cycle that will close the Atlantic Ocean. The Iberian subduction zone will pull Iberia towards the United States over approximately 220 million years.
Female southern bottletail squid consume male ejaculates, using nutrients for egg growth, and target larger females to minimize consumption. This strategic behavior affects males' chances of fertilizing eggs.
Research found that low birth weight and prematurity are linked to low nephron numbers, increasing the risk of high blood pressure and chronic kidney disease. The study suggests clinicians use birth weight as a parameter for screening patients.
Researchers at Monash University have identified a sub-group of cells that can contribute to prostate cancer recurrence, opening up new treatment options. These previously unidentified cells are potential targets for future therapies and may be targeted before the cancer reaches an incurable stage.
A study published in Nature found that 70% of stars with high sodium content fail to reach the final red giant phase. This discovery challenges previous assumptions about the life cycle of low-mass stars, including our Sun.
Researchers from Monash University found that macrophages play a crucial role in salamander regeneration. Without them, salamanders lose their ability to regenerate and form scar tissue instead. The study brings scientists closer to understanding the conditions needed for human regeneration.
Research from Monash University reveals that human hip evolution was simpler than previously thought, with key elements present in fish ancestors. The study found that major changes could be made in just a few evolutionary steps.
Researchers have identified two molecules that can predict which stroke patients are at risk of severe long-term disability. The study found elevated levels of endothelin converting enzyme-1 (ECE-1) and big endothelin-1 (BigET-1) in SAH patients who suffered significant disability.
Certain Australian native flowers have shifted from using insects as pollinators and evolved flower colour to the red hues favoured by birds. The study found that bird-pollinated flowers have spectral signatures that are best discriminated by those birds.
Researchers identified a gene that regulates plant life cycle transition, providing insights into complex diploid body evolution. This discovery could lead to the development of apomixis, a technique for producing high-yielding hybrid crops more easily and cheaply.
Researchers have discovered a photosensitive metal organic framework (MOF) that can absorb large amounts of carbon dioxide from coal power stations. The MOF can release stored CO2 when exposed to sunlight, making it a promising new tool for reducing emissions.
Researchers at Monash University successfully derived and purified lens epithelium, paving the way for testing new drugs on human tissue. The breakthrough could lead to cures for congenital sight impairment caused by lens damage, particularly in developing countries.
A global approach to monitoring biodiversity loss has been proposed by an international team of biologists. The system aims to improve information feeding into biodiversity policy and stimulate investment in measuring global biodiversity change.
A landmark study found gastric banding to be an effective long-term strategy for managing obesity, with 78% of patients maintaining significant weight loss after 10-15 years. The procedure has lasting benefits, including improved health and longer lifespan, as well as effective control of type 2 diabetes.
Research by Monash University found that growing up as an only child due to China's One Child Policy is associated with lower levels of trust, risk-taking, and competitiveness. The study also suggests that this may have economic implications for China, including a decline in entrepreneurial ability.
Researchers at Monash University used advanced microscopy techniques to visualize the movements of white blood cells in healthy and diseased kidneys. They found that leukocytes are constantly circulating through and patrolling blood vessels within healthy kidneys, but become agitated during disease, causing inflammation and kidney damage.
Researchers have successfully formed graphene into useful three-dimensional structures by mirroring the structure of cork, enabling record-breaking strength and elasticity. The breakthrough, published in Nature Communications, has opened up new avenues for investigations of graphene's potential applications.
A new screening tool has been developed to help identify individual vulnerability to health and safety impacts of shift work. The tool, for a condition known as shift work disorder, aims to reduce workplace accidents and illnesses caused by shift work, including cardiovascular disease and cancer.
Scientists have visualised the interaction between gluten and T-cells of the immune system, providing insight into how coeliac disease is triggered. The discovery could lead to a blood test and therapeutic vaccine for patients with coeliac disease.
New research reveals bariatric surgery does not significantly improve obstructive sleep apnoea in severely obese individuals. Weight loss through surgical or medically-supervised means results in comparable improvements in OSA severity.
Researchers have discovered a key protein, RABL2, that affects sperm tail length and motility, potentially leading to new avenues for male infertility treatment. A mutation in this protein can result in significantly shorter sperm tails and decreased production.