Detained adolescents experience high rates of mental health disorders, substance use disorders, and neurodevelopment disabilities. A whole-of-system approach is needed to address health and social inequalities in childhood and adolescence.
A breakthrough study published in Science has deciphered a new way that gamma-delta T cells detect infections and cancers. The research team identified a key molecule, butyrophilin 2A1, which is present on the surface of these immune cells and binds to specific molecules on cancer cells.
Scientists have discovered a new population of gamma delta T cells that recognize an MHC-like molecule called MR1. Using advanced imaging techniques, researchers found that these T cells bind to MR1 from underneath the molecule, rather than sitting atop it as previously thought.
A highly contagious intestinal bacteria, Shigellosis can cause 190 million cases of diarrhoea globally each year. In Victoria, a drug-resistant Shigella strain has emerged, making treatment with oral antibiotics impossible, requiring hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics instead.
A new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences has created a data-driven 'vocation compass' that suggests different occupations tend to have distinct personality profiles. The research used Twitter data to group similar jobs together, revealing that software programmers and scientists are often open to exp...
New research reveals that Australia's oldest flowering plants are 126 million years old and resemble modern magnolias, buttercups, and laurels. Climate change may have prevented their expansion into Australasia due to cold temperatures.
A multi-drug resistant Staphylococcus aureus lineage known as the Bengal Bay clone has spread globally, causing severe disease and raising concerns about antibiotic resistance. The bacteria combines high virulence potential with multi-drug resistance, making it a significant public health issue.
Women's appearance enhancement is driven by status anxiety and income inequality, according to research. In economically unequal societies, participants chose more revealing outfits due to social status anxiety, using attractiveness as a strategy to climb the social hierarchy.
Researchers have found an effective and environmentally sustainable way to block the transmission of dengue virus using a new strain of Wolbachia bacteria. In trials carried out in Malaysia, the strain reduced cases of dengue by 40% and established itself even in hot temperatures.
A novel mental health program, tMHFA, improves teenagers' ability to recognise and support friends at risk of suicide. Researchers found students who participated in the training were 35 times more likely to report adequate suicide first aid than those in a control group.
Researchers identified the molecular signals that activate MAIT cells during Salmonella or Legionella infections. They found that IL-23 is key to expanding MAIT cell numbers and attacking the infection.
A short training program equips family doctors to better respond to female patients experiencing domestic violence. Women who receive this specialized care feel more supported, confident, and less depressed than those without such training.
Researchers have discovered a way to stop the rabies virus from shutting down the immune system, solving a long-standing scientific puzzle. The breakthrough involves disabling the binding of viral proteins to host cells' STAT1 protein, paving the way for new oral vaccines.
A recent WHO-led study in four countries found that over one-third of women experience physical and verbal abuse during childbirth, with younger, less educated women at highest risk. The study highlights the need for respectful maternity care and informed policies to address these inequalities.
A team of Australian scientists has created the world's most detailed gene map of the human retina, providing unprecedented insights into its genetic signals. This will help future research understand the factors that enable cells to function normally and identify the genetic 'mistakes' causing vision loss and blindness.
Research reveals dietary zinc intake protects against Streptococcus pneumoniae, a primary cause of pneumonia. Zinc deficiency increases susceptibility to bacterial infections.
Research finds heart disease and stroke mortality rates are barely declining or increasing in 12 high-income countries since 2000. Obesity levels may be a significant contributor to the slowdown.
A massive study involving 17,606 participants has identified rare genetic variations associated with a higher risk of epilepsy. The research found that both severe and less severe forms of the disease share similar genetic features, paving the way for more targeted treatments.
A new study published in Papillomavirus Research found that one dose of HPV vaccine lowers the chance of having a pre-cancerous lesion detected at cervical screening in women vaccinated at a young age. The data supports the possibility that one dose may be sufficient for protection, simplifying vaccination and potentially benefiting co...
A global study finds people born very preterm or with very low birthweight are four times more likely to have worrying clinical ranges in early adulthood. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a significant concern, especially for those with bronchopulmonary dysplasia or exposed to pollutants.
Researchers identified a common gene signature in almost all global Strep A strains through genomic sequencing of thousands of genomes from over 20 countries. This finding has the potential to aid in the development of an effective global vaccine, which could combat the bacterial pathogen responsible for millions of deaths annually.
Research finds Australia's life expectancy at birth has slowed, requiring better control of health risk factors like obesity to achieve future increases. The rate of growth in Australia is now falling behind most other high-income nations.
Scientists have identified three specific subtypes of precursor cells that go on to become fat cells, which may help determine an individual's health risk. The discovery could lead to the development of new treatments that target 'fast burning' fat cells to prevent weight gain and metabolic disease.
A new study published in Pediatrics found that genetic makeup does not predispose people to tooth decay, but children with overweight mothers are more likely to develop cavities. The research suggests that environmental factors such as diet and lifestyle play a significant role in dental health.
Researchers analyzed wind speed and wave height measurements from satellites and ocean buoys to find extreme winds increasing by 8% and waves by 5% in the Southern Ocean over the past 30 years. This increase has significant implications for rising sea levels and coastal flooding.
A New Zealand-Australian study has found that using two anti-convulsant medications one after the other can increase the success rate of stopping prolonged seizures in children by up to 75%. This breakthrough treatment may halve the number of children ventilated and sent to intensive care, improving their chances of recovery.
Researchers have modified a minimally invasive technique to help men regain erectile function lost after prostate cancer surgery. The 'end-to-side' nerve grafting procedure has shown promising results, restoring erectile function in 71% of patients with significant improvements in quality of life.
A new tool, SpinalLog, is being used at the University of Melbourne to help physiotherapy students master complex fine motor skills. The device provides real-time visual feedback on pressure patterns and technique used to mobilise the spine, improving students' ability to replicate force patterns.
Researchers used HBV genome sequences to infer ancient human migration into Australia, revealing unique viral strain and geographical connections. The study adds weight to the theory of mainland Aboriginal population separation at least 59 thousand years ago.
The study reveals that adolescent health has not kept pace with population growth, with significant increases in obesity, anaemia, and non-communicable diseases. Investments in adolescent health are needed to address these challenges, particularly in low-income countries where adolescents carry a heavy disease burden.
Researchers found that increased access to e-cigarettes containing nicotine could lead to a significant health benefit, equivalent to adding 19 healthy days to the life of each living New Zealander. The study suggests that this could result in cost savings of NZ$3.4 billion due to reduced tobacco-related diseases.
Researchers have identified anomalies in the dorsal language stream of the brain connected to speech in children with apraxia. This discovery could lead to more targeted treatments for children with the debilitating disorder, which affects their ability to form social relationships and quality of life.
Research tracked drinking habits of over 4,000 people from teens to thirties and found most mothers returned to pre-pregnancy drinking patterns within five years. The study also reported that 15% of mothers with a child aged five or older reported binge drinking in the past week.
The new WHO strategy aims to reduce the death and disability burden of snakebite by 50% by 2030 through delivering effective treatments and strengthening health systems. It also emphasizes empowering communities and building a global coalition to coordinate action and mobilize resources.
Researchers found that prostate cancer cells absorb fatty acids, increasing tumor growth, and blocking this process slows cancer development. The study suggests a possible therapeutic target for treating prostate cancer, particularly for men with aggressive disease.
International study finds MS treatments can delay secondary progressive stage of the disease by five years or more, improving quality of life. Early treatment is essential to prevent worsening disability and irreversible loss of function.
Researchers found that enhancers regulate the SOX9 gene, which is critical for male development. The study reveals that disruptions to these enhancers can lead to disorders of sex development.
New research reveals small and isolated habitat patches in Australia are vital to the survival of many rare and endangered species. Small patches of vegetation, such as those along roadsides or in urban areas, can be a last piece of habitat for species that once had widespread habitats.
A team of researchers has discovered a 'blind spot' in atomic force microscopy that can lead to incorrect results due to the use of certain force laws. However, they have also developed a new mathematical method to identify and avoid this issue, safeguarding atomic force measurements from inaccurate results.
Researchers have developed a tiny device that electrically stimulates the brain, paving the way for minimally invasive treatments for conditions such as epilepsy and Parkinson's disease. The Stentrode can deliver targeted stimulation without open-brain surgery, opening up new possibilities for treating neurological disorders.
A study by Australian Dietitian Melissa Whitelaw found that 51 patients with 'atypical anorexia' had significant eating disorder psychopathology but were not underweight. The patients experienced life-threatening complications such as low pulse rates and deranged blood electrolytes despite being within or above the healthy weight range.
A University of Melbourne researcher has developed an organic, non-combustible and lightweight cladding core using ceramic particles activated by electrical cable insulation. This breakthrough material has been tested to withstand temperatures of 750 degrees Celsius and achieves Australian and International Standards on combustibility.
Scientists have discovered a way to enhance the effectiveness of artemisinin, a powerful antimalarial drug, by combining it with chemotherapy medicines that target the parasite's waste disposal system. The combination works by jamming the recycling process, leading to cell death in the parasite.
University of Melbourne researchers have developed a software tool to predict landslide boundaries by identifying subtle patterns in motion, allowing for early warning signs to be detected. The tool uses big data analytics and applied mathematics to shed light on the microstructure level of failure in landslides.
A new study found that eight- to nine-year-old children are vulnerable to poor body image as hormone levels rise with the onset of puberty. The research, led by Dr. Elizabeth Hughes, suggests that strategies in schools and at home can help maintain a positive body image prior to puberty.
A study by the University of Melbourne and Harvard Medical School found that international aid spent on youth health projects is drastically underinvested in the developing world. Despite making up 12-13% of disease burden, adolescents receive only a tiny share of global investments.
A study by University of Melbourne researchers reveals that clinically relevant epileptic seizure prediction is possible in a wider range of patients than previously thought. The crowdsourcing of over 10,000 algorithms worldwide led to an average 90% improvement in seizure prediction performance compared to previous results.
The University of Melbourne researchers have created a tool to calculate the 'nitrogen footprint' of an organization, providing a guide to reduce daily activities' impact on pollution. The study found that institutions can significantly contribute to nitrogen pollution but also have potential for reduction by up to 60%.
A new study found that small farm size strongly affects the use and intensity of agricultural chemicals in China. The research suggests that addressing this issue is critical to sustainable development in Chinese agriculture. If left unaddressed, other less-developed countries may face similar health and environmental problems.
Removal of tonsils and adenoids in childhood increases long-term risks of respiratory, allergic, and infectious diseases. The study suggests delaying surgery if possible to aid normal immune system development and reduce potential later-life disease risks.