Elevated cortisol levels in preterm fetuses disrupt normal heart development, potentially leading to increased cardiovascular disease risk. Cortisol exposure accelerates heart development in ways that may not be beneficial, ultimately compromising heart health.
Researchers have discovered that Bogong moths use constellations of stars and the Milky Way to navigate long distances, making them the first known invertebrate to rely on a stellar compass for navigation. The moths also use the Earth's magnetic field to maintain their direction even when clouds obscure the stars.
A new study found that augmented reality can significantly increase trust in autonomous vehicles by adding, modifying or removing driving-related information. The technology uses sensors to deliver real-time data, ensuring drivers stay focused on the road while accessing critical info.
A world-first study suggests that a person's marathon potential may be identified through a simple check of their hands. Lower digit ratio is linked to cardiorespiratory fitness and exercise tolerance. This biomarker could help coaches identify talent or recreational athletes understand their endurance potential.
Researchers at University of South Australia develop a new material using water treatment sludge and blast-furnace slag, showing over 50% stronger compressive strength and resistance to acid degradation. The discovery has the potential to extend service life of sewage pipes, reduce maintenance costs, and promote circular economy.
A global study by UniSA researchers found that 94% of people who use wearable activity trackers are open to sharing their health information with healthcare providers. This could lead to more personalized and responsive care. The demand for personalized healthcare is on the rise, and wearable activity tracker market is increasing.
Researchers found that individuals with regular savings habits and on-time credit card payments had better mental health. The study also showed that even small amounts of saving can lead to positive outcomes.
A new study by the University of South Australia found that using AI alone in hiring decisions does not necessarily lead to more diverse and inclusive outcomes. The research highlights the importance of organizations having clear diversity guidelines, qualitative goals, and human oversight to support the use of AI tools effectively.
A new survey reveals that while Australians care deeply about the Great Barrier Reef, many are unaware of its location. The study found that only a few participants could identify individual species, highlighting the need for targeted public awareness campaigns to address knowledge gaps.
Researchers explore emerging technologies like Kerecis and NovoSorb BTM, which integrate antimicrobial properties into dermal substitutes. The review highlights the need for integrated antimicrobial agents to reduce antibiotic reliance and promote scarless healing.
A new planning formula, adapted from the Real Options Approach, aims to transform the Royal Australian Navy's fleet management. The model assesses multiple future scenarios, reducing risk of overinvestment or premature commissioning.
A new study reveals a gap in how nature playspaces are designed and delivered across Australia, with no clear evidence-based guidelines to support children of all ages and capabilities. Researchers call for national, research-backed recommendations to ensure consistency and quality across the country.
A new energy model reveals a striking similarity in all scenarios: the inevitable transition to renewable energy. However, achieving rapid cuts necessary to meet 1.5°C targets poses a challenge, with a potential 20-30 year gap between demand and supply.
A new study found that staying active through moderate-to-vigorous physical activity is associated with significantly better processing speed, working memory, and executive function in older adults. Even small changes to daily activities can have big impacts on brain health.
Researchers have developed a highly sensitive method to detect nitazenes – highly potent synthetic opioids – and xylazine, an animal sedative not approved for human use, in Australian wastewater. The method achieved up to 1000-fold enrichment and detected trace levels of these substances, posing significant risks of overdose.
Researchers have identified two proteins in birds that compensate for the loss of a key immune component in humans, providing insights into combating respiratory diseases. The study sheds light on how birds maintain lung protection despite their unique respiratory anatomy.
A new study from the University of South Australia found that teenagers who exercise regularly with their families are more likely to meet activity guidelines and report stronger mental health. The research showed that daily family exercise can lead to improved physical and mental well-being in teens, building strong bonds and confidence.
A systematic review of nearly 6000 runners found that lower energy and fat intakes were strongly associated with a higher risk of injury in female runners. A low-fibre diet also increased the likelihood of bone stress injuries.
The new tool has the potential to improve cancer survival rates and patient quality of life worldwide by allowing for more targeted and less invasive surgeries. Researchers are currently developing a fully functional prototype that can be trialled in large animal models before progressing to human clinical trials.
A UniSA-led study is trialing medication safety rounds in aged care homes to identify and address potential problems with medication use. The project aims to reduce medication-induced harm and improve residents' health and wellbeing through pharmacist-led safety rounds, adapting an existing palliative care need rounds model.
Researchers found that men in local leadership positions are unaware of gender biases and less likely to challenge stereotypes, while women actively work to break down these biases. The study suggests that greater awareness of gender in leadership can create more inclusive and effective leadership.
Groundbreaking research from the University of South Australia shows that any form of exercise can significantly boost brain function and memory across children, adults, and older adults. Regular exercise improves general cognition, memory, and executive function in both healthy individuals and those with clinical conditions.
A natural citrus oil, when combined with a lipid formulation, may effectively relieve dry mouth in cancer patients. The new formula has demonstrated improved solubility and bioavailability compared to pure limonene.
Small regional live music venue operators are experiencing stress and burnout due to challenges with audience access and fairly paying performing artists. The study highlights the impact of rising public liability costs, rent, and energy prices on venues' bottom line. Solutions include localised approaches, music feedback forums, and d...
Scientists at the University of South Australia have developed a phospholipid complex to improve cannabidiol's effectiveness in treating epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and other neurodegenerative diseases. The new formula increases cannabidiol's solubility by up to six times and improves its absorption in the gastrointestinal tract.
A new study found that adding green-synthesised iron nanoparticles (G-nFe) to pig manure neutralises bioavailable copper, reducing environmental risks. The process reduces exchangeable cooper by 66.8%, carbonate-bound copper by 47.5%.
A study of 235 participants found that binge eating was perceived as the most trivial condition, with strong social stigma attached. This stigma can make it even harder for individuals to seek help and overcome their eating disorders.
A world-first study of over 215,000 students found that emotional wellbeing, engagement, and learning readiness are key to performance. Schools must shift towards valuing student wellbeing and academic achievement as integral components of a holistic education.
A University of South Australia study found that students who exhibit higher levels of creativity tend to excel in literacy and numeracy assessments. Higher flexibility in divergent thinking was associated with stronger NAPLAN literacy outcomes, while mathematical creativity was linked to stronger numeracy performance.
Researchers at UniSA found problem-based learning improves engagement, creativity, and academic outcomes for disengaged high school students. The approach links learning to real-life challenges, empowering learners through project-based learning and service to their community.
Unplanned oil supply outages caused by geopolitical instability are throwing airline stock markets into chaos, making it more expensive to fly. The study highlights the potential impact on investment strategies, stock market stability and long-term financial planning in the aviation sector.
A new study found that dating app users are more likely to undergo cosmetic procedures and digitally alter their appearance. The study suggests that the emphasis on appearance in dating apps contributes to an obsession with cosmetic surgery, potentially leading to increased body dissatisfaction and poor self-esteem.
A new study from the University of South Australia found that most people trust AI in situations where the stakes are low, such as music suggestions. However, those with poor statistical literacy or little familiarity with AI were just as likely to trust algorithms for trivial choices as they were for critical decisions. The study also...
University of South Australia students now safely navigate building sites and connect theory to practice through immersive virtual learning environments. SiteSeer program allows students to explore the full fabrication process, bridging the gap between plans and built reality.
A global real-time monitoring system is being developed to track bleaching severity, crown-of-thorns starfish populations, disease outbreaks, and reef fish abundance. The integrated system aims to provide predictive models for conservation efforts, enabling earlier intervention.
Research at the University of South Australia found that Minecraft fosters teamwork, communication and social skills in children through collaborative play. The game also promotes problem-solving skills, creativity and language abilities, making it a powerful tool for learning and social development.
Researchers found that women who had used the oral contraceptive pill had a lower risk of ovarian cancer, with a 39% reduced risk for those who had given birth to two or more children. The study also identified certain biomarkers and lifestyle factors associated with a lower risk of ovarian cancer, including lower body weight and short...
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that cold-water immersion can reduce stress levels within 12 hours, improve sleep quality, and boost quality of life. However, these benefits may fade after three months. Cold showers also showed promise in reducing sickness absence and improving mood.
A national survey of 800 managers found that many experience indifference, hostility, and discrimination towards part-time soldiers on their payroll. Despite public declarations of support, employers often deny Defence leave requests, largely due to misconceptions about the relevance of military skills in the civilian workplace.
Researchers found that new habits can begin forming within about two months, but can take up to 335 days to establish. The study also identified factors that influence successful habit formation, including frequency, timing, and enjoyment.
A new automated job hazard analysis tool promises to significantly reduce workplace accidents and improve safety in the construction industry. The University of South Australia's research team has built a 'knowledge graph' to predict hazards, which can be analysed in real-time to identify potential risks and control measures.
A new Australian study found that IVF pregnancies had the highest exposure to teratogenic medicines during the first trimester, compared to naturally conceived pregnancies. The risk was linked to medications used as additional treatment following ART to prevent repeat miscarriages or failed implantation.
Researchers at UniSA found that certain sedentary behaviors, like reading, are beneficial for cognitive function, while others, such as watching TV, have a negative effect. The study suggests a nuanced approach to thinking about the link between sedentary behaviors and cognitive function.
Summer holiday programs in Australia have been found to improve children's physical activity, fitness, and mental health, particularly among disadvantaged kids. These programs, delivered in semi-structured environments like school, help offset hours spent on screens and promote healthier behaviors.
A new study published in the journal Nutres found that adopting a healthy diet can reduce the severity of chronic pain, regardless of body weight. The research, conducted by the University of South Australia, explored associations between body fat, diet, and pain and found that higher consumption of core foods was directly associated w...
A groundbreaking study has established the world's largest and most geographically comprehensive international norms for handgrip strength, covering 2.4 million adults from 69 countries. The new norms enable global peer-comparison, health screening, and surveillance across the adult lifespan, helping clinicians identify people at risk ...
Researchers from the University of South Australia have developed a celestial navigation system that uses visual data from stars to provide an alternative means of nighttime navigation in environments where GPS is unavailable or unreliable. The system has been tested on a fixed-wing drone and demonstrated accurate positioning within fo...
A study published in the Journal of Neuroscience found that sleeping improves ability to remember new words and complex grammatical rules. Researchers tracked brain activity of participants learning a miniature language called Mini Pinyin while sleeping or awake, revealing significant improvements in those who slept.
Researchers from UniSA have developed a simple strategy to increase seawater evaporation rates, making desalination more energy-efficient and sustainable. By introducing clay minerals into a photothermal hydrogel evaporator, they achieved a 18.8% higher evaporation rate for seawater compared to pure water.
Researchers found that only programs promoting physical activity or eating more fruit and vegetables showed promise, while others had little effect. Tailored, multi-level and innovative approaches are required to enact positive change among truck drivers.