Researchers believe that Galileo's notebooks from 1613 may reveal evidence of his discovery of a new planet, which is now known as Neptune. The planet was observed by Galileo as a faint star near Jupiter and moved relative to an actual nearby star.
Researchers have identified two new genetic locations linked to Multiple Sclerosis and other autoimmune diseases. The discovery offers promising targets for disease susceptibility and may lead to the development of novel therapeutics.
A new study has shown that Komodo Dragons' effectiveness lies in their unique combination of serrated teeth and venom. The venom was found to be rich in toxins that prolong bleeding and induce shock in victims, allowing the dragons to weaken and immobilize their prey.
A new study reveals that mother birds provide an early advantage to extra-pair offspring, giving them a size and survival advantage over their half-siblings. This non-genetic effect is attributed to the laying order of eggs, with extra-pair chicks hatching earlier than within-pair chicks.
The University of Melbourne's bionic eye project received a $50 million funding boost from the Federal Government, with plans to conduct its first clinical test within two years. The project aims to develop a high-resolution bionic eye that can differentiate between objects beyond current capabilities.
A new study by researchers from the University of Melbourne and others has found that all octopuses possess venomous capabilities, with a common ancient ancestor producing specialized proteins. The team's findings also highlight the importance of cephalopod venoms in drug development for conditions such as pain management and allergies.
Researchers identify previously unrecognized defense mechanisms that improve treatment of viral skin infections. They found that immune cells in the skin, such as dendritic cells and memory T cells, can trigger a strong response to infections, providing efficient and long-lasting immunity.
A three-year study shows that the reflection of light from the Earth's oceans and continents can be seen on the dark side of the moon, known as earthshine. The brightness varies with the Earth's rotation, highlighting the difference between intense ocean reflections and dimmer land reflections.
A new vaccine formula has been discovered that boosts T cell immunity to protect humans from bird flu, a highly virulent virus. The formula adds a potent immune modulator to existing flu vaccines, improving their effectiveness and providing potential protection against a pandemic.
The Observatory on Mental Health Systems will develop research, monitoring, and evaluation programs at national and district levels, improving the human rights of people with mental illness. The observatory's work in Asia and the Pacific region aims to scale up effective mental health services in low- and middle-income countries.
Almost a third of registered aged care nurses in Victoria are considering quitting their jobs due to emotional exhaustion. The study highlights the need for improved training, human resource management and grievance procedures to improve staff well-being and quality of care.
A global initiative aims to collect information on every fault in every gene worldwide, standardizing the reporting of genetic mutations. The project has been published in the journal Science and involves international collaboration between researchers from Australia, China, Japan, and Kuwait.
A new study at the University of Melbourne discovered that rare insect clones are favored by evolution, leading to increased genetic variation. This phenomenon, known as frequency-dependent selection, allows rare clones to become more common and produce more offspring.
A new approach to genetic testing for cancers in Australia could effectively halve deaths caused by an inherited form of bowel cancer. By testing tumors of young people with cancer, researchers can identify inherited genetic faults and prevent further cases.
People with psychiatric disabilities in Australia smoke at four times the rate of the general population, despite efforts to reduce smoking rates. More than six in ten smokers with mental illness consumed over 22 cigarettes a day.
A new study published in the British Journal of Psychiatry reveals that women who smoke are at greater risk of developing major depressive disorder. Smoking was found to more than double the likelihood of developing depression for heavy smokers compared to non-smokers.
A University of Melbourne study reveals women in casual and contract jobs are up to 10 times more likely to experience unwanted sexual advances. Precarious employment has been linked to poorer mental and physical health, highlighting the need for greater protections.
A new computer program may reveal a way to predict premature birth with greater accuracy. The system, developed by Australian researchers and a pathology company, analyzes hormone levels to identify high-risk pregnancies.
A recent Australian study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that moderate exercise can significantly improve cognitive function in older adults at risk. Participants who walked for 2 and a half hours a week showed better delayed recall, lower Clinical Dementia Rating Scores, and improved memory problems.
Researchers found that cane toads are unlikely to thrive in Melbourne, Adelaide, and Hobart due to the region's cool temperatures. However, they expect them to move further south by 2050 under moderate global warming, potentially affecting cities like Sydney and Perth.
A recent study by University of Melbourne researcher Dr. Patrick Charles found that only 5% of community-acquired pneumonia cases required broad-spectrum antibiotics, while most were caused by easy-to-treat bacteria or respiratory viruses. The study suggests that current Australian guidelines for prescribing antibiotics are appropriate...
A new international study found that Indigenous Australian children who speak languages with few number words can still demonstrate strong numeracy skills based on quantity and spatial concepts. Their skills are equal to those of English-speaking Indigenous children.
Research published in Nature Genetics reveals that marsupials and humans share an identical genetic imprinting mechanism that evolved 150 million years ago. This discovery helps determine how the mechanism works and what can be done to prevent human diseases related to genetic imprinting.
Research conducted by University of Melbourne's Dr Anne Cust and colleagues found that overweight and insulin-resistant women are about 50% more likely to be diagnosed with an advanced stage of breast cancer. The study, published in Breast Cancer Research and Treatment, tracked over 60,000 Swedish women for 20 years.
A new study suggests that more aggressive treatment of childhood eczema could help reduce the incidence of asthma in later life. The study, conducted by the University of Melbourne and others, found a strong association between childhood eczema and asthma into middle age.
A new study from the University of Melbourne found that Kylie Minogue's breast cancer diagnosis led to a significant increase in breast imaging and biopsies among low-risk women, particularly those aged 25-34. Despite the surge in screening activity, the rates of breast cancer detection did not change significantly.
A new University of Melbourne study found that nearly one in five working women and one in eight working men experience preventable depression caused by job stress. The study estimates that more than 21,000 cases of preventable depression are caused by job stress each year.
A recent Australian study found that over 40% of parents have used cough medicine for children under 2 years old, despite warnings from health authorities. The most commonly used medication was paracetamol, and nearly half of parents gave their children anti-histamine-containing medications to treat colds.
A recent Australian study found that part-time and casual work among new mothers has a significantly negative impact on breastfeeding rates, almost as big as returning to full-time work. The lack of paid maternity leave and workplace support for breastfeeding are cited as major factors contributing to this finding.
Researchers investigated B-meson decays to understand the origin of matter's dominance over antimatter in the universe. The study reveals a significant discrepancy between theoretical models and observations, suggesting the presence of a new principle of physics.
Myopia research reveals no link between glasses-wearing and introversion, but a small association with Agreeableness; good eye care is key, dispelling preconceived notions about wearing glasses
Australian yabbies possess a remarkable capacity for facial recognition, studying found that they can identify and distinguish between individuals. This ability is comparable to that of humans and some vertebrates, but rare in invertebrate species.
The study reveals that granular materials exhibit complex rheology, making it challenging for continuum theory to predict their behavior. The enriched continuum model offers a new level of predictive capability, capturing the key transition mechanism and shear bands.
Researchers at the University of Melbourne have discovered a sub-atomic particle called X(3872) that defies explanation using current theories. This 'mystery meson' has unique mass and decay properties that challenge our understanding of quarks and the color force.
Research finds that snake venom evolved only once in evolution, around 60 million years ago, and is now found in virtually all advanced snakes. A study of over 2,000 snakes from around the world has discovered that many non-venomous species possess complex venoms.
A new research project has set up houses with various termite defence systems in Arnhem Land to curb $780 million damage caused by termites each year. The project is using novel preservatives and chemical barriers to protect timber, and learning from the Yolngu people about termite behaviour and biology.
A new study reveals that vitamin D levels predict the risk of falls among women, with 45% of nursing home residents suffering from deficiency. Vitamin D supplements are proposed as a solution to prevent falls and related health issues.
A study found individuals at ultra-high risk for psychosis had difficulty identifying smells before symptom onset. This discovery could lead to a new diagnostic tool and earlier treatment options for schizophrenia and other psychoses.
Researchers have created a ring of muscle from the patient's own body and transplanted it to the bladder as a replacement sphincter. The new treatment uses an implanted electrical stimulator for a reliable method of passing urine only when needed, offering hope for millions suffering from severe stress incontinence.
A study conducted at the University of Melbourne found that smoking is significantly linked to osteoporosis in women, particularly after menopause. Continuing high exposure to tobacco and greater sensitivity to smoking-induced bone loss are possible explanations for this link.
New research suggests that hot spots on Mars could be the key to finding signs of water and life on the planet. The study, led by Dr Hoffman, compares similarities between Antarctica's Mt Erebus ice towers and potential Martian structures, proposing a new focus for the search.
Scientists have observed a rare phenomenon in the insect world where a female Zeus bug allows a male to ride on her back, feeding on protein-rich wax produced by the female. This unusual behavior, known as 'female-led mating,' has sparked curiosity among researchers and provides new insights into the evolution of mating behaviors.
A University of Melbourne postdoctoral student will develop computer software agents for Britain's Ministry of Defence to model real human behaviour. The agents will aim to inject life-like behaviour into computer-generated forces, improving training and analysis.
Researchers have discovered a single gene mutation in flies that provides resistance to multiple, chemically unrelated pesticides. This mutation has spread globally and has been linked to devastating consequences if not addressed through reassessment of current pest management methods.
Melbourne scientist Mike Hubbard overturns long-held assumption on calcium transport, revealing a new class of protein linked to breast cancer and fertility. His research suggests an alternative calcium transport system based on the Endoplasmic Reticulum, potentially leading to new drug developments.
Researchers have identified the crucial elements of the flu virus that activate the body's T-cells, enabling a new type of vaccine to be developed. This breakthrough could provide long-term protection against future pandemics.
A groundbreaking study by University of Melbourne researcher Dr. John Sader challenges the widespread use of V-shaped cantilevers in atomic force microscopy. His research reveals that these microcantlevers actually degrade instrument performance and cause difficulties in calibration, contrary to accepted practice.
A University of Melbourne-led team has reached a broad agreement on the ages of Lake Mungo remains, painting a new picture of human and climatic history in Australia. The research boosts the age of Mungo Lady's cremation by 10,000 years, placing both at 40,000 years old.
Geologist Dr Nick Hoffman claims that recent gully development on Mars was caused by frozen carbon dioxide, contradicting the majority scientific opinion that it was carved by liquid water. This raises concerns about the possibility of life existing on Mars.
The malaria parasite evolved from a plant-like organism that survived by photosynthesis, and its relict chloroplast contains genes associated with anti-malarial drug targets. At least 12 new drug targets have been identified, providing leads for safe herbicides and antibiotics.