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University of South Australia


Trauma and kids: The role of the early childhood teacher

Researchers found that early childhood teachers can help secure the emotional development of children dealing with trauma. Teachers can use holistic approaches, educate children about emergencies, and maintain trust to build self-esteem and resilience. They should also involve parents in emergency planning and provide consistent routines.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalJournal of Early Childhood Teacher Education·DateNov 12, 2019

Young mums more likely to have kids with ADHD

Research from the University of South Australia found that young maternal age at first birth is strongly associated with an increased risk of having a child with ADHD. The study, published in Nature's Scientific Reports, explored the genetic relationship between female reproductive traits and key psychiatric disorders.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 23, 2019

Depression breakthrough

A recent study from the University of South Australia has found a causal relationship between depression and 20 distinct diseases, including respiratory, heart, and digestive issues. This research can help detect and manage high rates of physical illnesses in people diagnosed with depression.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateSep 4, 2019

Super-powered immune cells

Researchers are conducting a phase 1 clinical trial using CAR-T cells, which have been shown to attack and kill cancers. The goal is to learn more about how these super-powered immune cells interact with solid tumors to develop effective treatments for various types of cancer.

Sleep, snacks and shift work

A new study found that consuming a snack reduces the impact of sleepiness and fatigue on night shift workers, compared to eating a meal or no food at all. The study's lead researcher hopes the findings will inform strategic eating patterns to help thousands of shift workers stay alert and healthy.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalNutrients·DateAug 9, 2019

A cup of joe and you're good to go!

Research from the University of South Australia finds that drinking six or more coffees a day can be detrimental to cardiovascular health, increasing the risk of heart disease. The study suggests that limiting coffee consumption to fewer than six cups a day is essential for maintaining a healthy heart and blood pressure.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateMay 10, 2019

The art of the circus

Research from the University of South Australia reveals that circus skills programs deliver significant mental health benefits for Australian children, with a 7:1 return on investment. Children participating in these programs showed improvements in stress relief, self-esteem, confidence, and socialization.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalInternational Journal of the Sociology of Leisure·DateMay 8, 2019

A silver lining like no other

New technology from the University of South Australia uses silver-loaded microneedle patches to create a 24-hour bacteria-free zone around the injection site, reducing infection risk. The dissolvable feature ensures no reuse and eliminates one of the greatest causes of infection.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalChemical Communications·DateMar 5, 2019

Tune in and switch off

A recent study from the University of South Australia found that watching TV is strongly associated with obesity in children, even more so than other types of sitting. The research also revealed differences between boys' and girls' sedentary behaviors, with boys spending more time playing video games and having higher body fat.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalObesity Research & Clinical Practice·DateFeb 7, 2019

Doing school differently

The not-school movement is an alternative approach to education that recognizes individual learning needs and talents, providing options for students who struggle in traditional school environments. This movement emphasizes the importance of creativity, innovation, and real-world experience in education.

The pain circuit breaker

Researchers at UniSA's Body in Mind Research Group have found visual illusions can reduce knee pain in people with osteoarthritis by up to 40%. The study used visual illusions that altered the size of participants' knees and lower legs, resulting in a cumulative analgesic effect.