A global research team has discovered 'natural data loggers' in aquatic species, providing a historical record of the environment. The unique chemical fingerprints left by these organisms can help scientists track water temperatures, pollution levels, and ecosystem health.
Researchers from the University of South Australia and Middle Technical University have developed an AI-powered voice analysis tool that can detect subtle changes in a person's voice to diagnose Parkinson's disease. The algorithm achieved high accuracy rates, up to 99%, and has the potential to improve early detection and remote monito...
Researchers found that podcasts significantly improved health knowledge, increased exercise levels, and boosted healthy eating habits. Engagement with health-related podcasts was generally high, suggesting they could be an effective medium for health information and behavior change interventions.
A new Australian study found that social media interactions are linked to muscle dysmorphia in young men, who experience small and weak bodies despite having a good physique. The study suggests that taking less notice of social media posts may help combat this issue, along with targeted mental health initiatives.
A new Australian study found that night shift workers who eat meals or snacks during their shift have significantly worse glucose tolerance compared to those who fast. Insulin sensitivity is also disrupted among all participants, regardless of their eating habits.
A new intervention will be developed by University of South Australia researchers to help young people with chronic childhood arthritis overcome barriers to physical activity and mental wellbeing. The VITAL Project aims to validate, understand, and empower activity in people with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis, reducing pain invalidatio...
Researchers from the University of South Australia have identified a new EEG-based measure of sleepiness that could provide a diagnosis in just two minutes. The method tracks neuronal excitability, corresponding with the brain's sleep-wake processes and has wide-ranging implications for managing sleep disorders and workplace safety.
New research reveals indoor vertical gardens consume excessive energy, particularly from artificial lighting and ventilation systems. Improving design and energy management can significantly reduce consumption.
Researchers have developed a natural fabric that reflects sunlight and allows heat to escape, while blocking the sun's rays and lowering temperature. The fabric leverages radiative cooling, with three layers designed to optimize cooling, promising relief to city dwellers experiencing warmer temperatures.
A new study from the University of South Australia highlights the importance of validating children's pain experiences to prevent chronic pain. Researchers found that by demonstrating acceptance, understanding, and legitimacy, parents and doctors can help children feel heard and believed, leading to better emotional regulation skills a...
A systematic review and meta-analysis of over 3.6 million mother-child pairs found that maternal obesity during pregnancy significantly linked with psychiatric and behavioral problems in children later in life, including autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Climate scientists have proposed a new approach to conserve vulnerable ecosystems, focusing on sites with favorable weather conditions. The 'climate-change refugia' concept aims to reduce species extinctions by identifying and protecting areas least impacted by changing weather.
Research found that babies born to pregnant women consuming high-fat, high-energy diets are more likely to develop heart problems and diabetes as adults due to fetal damage. Consuming a high-fat diet during pregnancy also increases the likelihood of insulin resistance in adulthood.
A new framework from a global team of scientists aims to overcome translational hurdles in nanomedicine development. The DELIVER guidelines provide early-stage recommendations for maximizing clinical translation and enabling the successful development of new nanomedicine treatments.
A recent survey found that phone use at night negatively impacts teenage mental health, particularly among those who have been cyberbullied. Approximately 66% of girls and 58% of boys reported being cyberbullied, with stress levels in the moderate-to-severe range reported by 38% of girls and 23% of boys.
A recent systematic review and meta-analysis of 28 studies with 1.2 million participants found that wearable technology can accurately detect conditions such as heart rate variability, blood pressure, oxygen levels, sleep quality, skin temperature, hydration, and stress levels. The study suggests that wearable activity trackers could r...
Researchers found immersive VR training significantly improves life skills in adults with intellectual disability, outperforming non-immersive methods. The study showed that VR headsets enable participants to learn practical life skills faster and retain them longer.
Research reveals that maternal prenatal smoking can limit a child's academic performance and put them behind their peers at school. The systematic review of 19 studies and 1.25 million participants found that 79% of studies reported reduced academic achievement in children exposed to maternal prenatal smoking.
Researchers at the University of South Australia have developed an AI sensor that can accurately measure the orientation of the Milky Way in low light, using a technique inspired by the dung beetle. This system could improve navigation for drones and satellites in difficult lighting conditions.
A 15-minute gamified workplace wellness program increased participants' average daily physical activity levels by 12 minutes per day, with 95% meeting physical activity guidelines. Participants also reported improvements in fitness, energy, overall health, sleep quality, and mood.
A computer algorithm has achieved a 98% accuracy in predicting different diseases by analyzing the color of the human tongue. The proposed imaging system can diagnose various health conditions, including diabetes, stroke, and COVID-19, using a simple and affordable method.
A new study found that digital health tools can improve health and wellbeing by keeping people active, boosting steps, and improving diet and sleep. The research synthesised data from 206,873 people across 47 studies, indicating that electronic and mobile health interventions can help people achieve positive outcomes.
A new Australian study found a strong link between low magnesium levels and high homocysteine, leading to increased DNA damage and susceptibility to Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, gastrointestinal diseases, cancers, and diabetes. Wholegrains, dark leafy vegetables, nuts, beans, and dark chocolate are rich in magnesium.
A new Australian study reveals that people aged between 60-64 years, particularly men, are at the most risk overall. Women are more prone to repairs of femoral hernias and incisional hernias, a common side effect of abdominal surgery.
Researchers highlight acute need for mental health services and support for men with prostate cancer. The study found that 15% of prostate cancer patients started anti-anxiety and antidepression medications at diagnosis, while only 6% sought help from mental health services.
Research from University of South Australia finds that individuals who experienced child abuse or neglect are three times more likely to receive government income support payments. Cumulative income support payments for those with no protection contact were $38,570, while those in out-of-home care received $181,743.
Sub-elite female Australian football players experience different injury patterns compared to males, highlighting the need for targeted training and injury prevention strategies. Ankle sprains, concussions, and anterior cruciate ligament injuries are the most common and burdensome, resulting in the most missed matches.
A University of South Australia study reveals that workplace bullying against women in Pakistan is driving emotional exhaustion and job dissatisfaction. Women are disproportionately affected by verbal, emotional, social, and physical/sexual bullying, with 30% globally experiencing it.
Researchers have developed a more effective method of removing organic pesticides from drinking water using powdered activated carbon particles as small as 6 μm. This process achieves significant water treatment savings while ensuring the removal of toxic chemicals.
Pre-clinical trials show that targeted alpha radiation therapy can increase survival rates by up to 36.4% and has minimal adverse effects for patients. Researchers hope this new approach could improve current average survival rates beyond 18 months.
Researchers from UniSA and Deakin University found a link between rooms with high ceilings and poorer examination results. The study analyzed data from 15,400 undergraduate students, comparing their exam scores to ceiling heights, and found lower scores when sitting exams in larger rooms.
A new study found that companies with supportive relationships, valuing skills, and minimizing work stress report fewer days lost due to workplace injury or illness. Organisations with poor psychosocial safety climate (PSC) reported 160% more days off compared to high PSC organisations.
A recent study found that facial recognition is closely tied to the number of close relationships people have. Good facial recall is linked to larger supportive social networks and increased overall health and happiness.
Gender diverse individuals face barriers in accessing healthcare screening, leading to a higher risk of undetected cancer. Nurse practitioners can play a crucial role in closing this gap by providing culturally safe care and promoting regular screenings.
A study by UniSA found that half of AFL fans had witnessed racist 'barracking' such as name calling at matches compared to 36% of NRL fans and 27% of A-League fans. Only 3% of AFL fans reported incidents through the phone-text hotline.
A new Australian study reveals widespread cyberbullying and sexual harassment in the esports industry, particularly affecting cis-gendered and trans-gendered women players. The study found that professional gamers are exposed to hostile behavior, which affects their mental health.
Research from the University of South Australia found that people with knee OA unconsciously believe exercise is dangerous, despite medical advice. The study developed a tool to detect and evaluate these implicit beliefs, suggesting they can be a better predictor of actual behavior than reported attitudes.
A new study highlights the importance of providing developmental supports to young victims of serious child abuse before they start school. Researchers found that children who were removed from their homes and entered out-of-home care were more likely to be developmentally delayed in some areas, but also vulnerable in other areas. The ...
A new study aims to improve learning and boost academic performance in South Australian schools by teaching self-regulated learning techniques. The 5-year project will engage 4000 students in years two, four and six across 57 primary schools, providing them with skills to manage their own learning and adapt to challenges.
A survey of almost 400 households found that frequent event attendees have a stronger sense of place, feeling connected to their community. This effect outweighs length of residency and home ownership.
Australian scientists have developed an AI-powered system to detect bushfires from space, reducing detection time by 500 times compared to traditional methods. The system uses hyperspectral imagery and onboard AI to identify fire smoke before it takes hold, allowing for faster responses and preventing loss of life and property.
A new study by the University of South Australia has discovered a connection between pleasant weather conditions and higher investment in lottery-like stocks. On days with sunny weather, investors are more likely to engage in risk-taking and optimistic behavior, resulting in high demand and lower prices for these stocks.
A new machine-learning model is providing teachers with access to high-quality, fit-for-purpose creativity tests that can score assessments in a fraction of the time and cost. The algorithm marks a test in a single millisecond, saving teachers thousands of hours.
Researchers from the University of South Australia have developed a new coating that targets the gut microbiome to improve antipsychotic medication absorption, mitigating unwanted weight gain. The reformulated Lurasidone reduces weight gain by 8-fold and boosts serotonin levels by over 250%.
A recent study by UniSA highlights the benefits of humble leadership in the workplace, which can elevate employee status and lead to enhanced leadership potential. Humble leaders practice 'bottom-up leadership' behaviors, valuing employee input and encouraging initiative.
A survey of Australian citizens reveals growing support for changing Australia Day date due to respect for First Nations people. Reconciliation Day on May 27 is the most popular alternative date, with younger respondents more likely to support a change.
A new study from the University of South Australia shows that young children learn about pain through reading, promoting empathy and emotional development. Reading picture books frequently prompts interactions about pain and injury, teaching valuable responses to these concepts.
Researchers at NeuRA and UniSA found that early detection and comprehensive treatment can lead to significant recovery for most people with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) within 12-18 months. The study reviews the latest advances in CRPS epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment.
Researchers identified a genetic link between higher levels of arachidonic acid and lower risk of bipolar disorder. Arachidonic acid, found in meat, seafood, and human milk, may hold potential for lifestyle or dietary interventions to prevent or treat the condition.
Research from the University of South Australia found that COVID-19-induced financial hardships led to significant effects on people's mental health, including anxiety and loneliness. Anticipated income losses had a more profound impact on mental wellbeing compared to actual losses.