A new study detected designer drugs like bath salts and eutylone in wastewater samples from 10 countries over the New Year. The study found that New Zealand consumed the highest loads of NPS, with high levels of eutylone also detected in Australia and Canada.
A new Australian study has found that taking anxiety drugs like nitrazepam and antidepressants before hip or knee surgery can lead to postoperative delirium. The risk is particularly high for older patients, highlighting the need to adjust medication regimens before undergoing elective procedures.
A daily dose of yoghurt has been found to be associated with lower blood pressure in individuals with hypertension. The study, conducted on 915 community-dwelling adults, found that even small amounts of yoghurt were linked to significant reductions in blood pressure.
A new study from the University of South Australia found that vitamin D deficiency is associated with a higher risk of heart disease and higher blood pressure. Increasing vitamin D levels in deficient individuals may prevent up to 4.4% of all CVD cases, according to the research.
A new UniSA study is helping protect children from online predators by investigating language and behaviors used to gain unacquainted children's trust. The research aims to deliver new linguistic indicators to monitor, identify, and apprehend suspects.
A new study reveals that psychological attributes such as attitude, coachability, competitiveness, and work ethic are more important than physical fitness in determining basketball success. Coaches prioritize players who exhibit optimistic behavior, good communication skills, and mental toughness.
Researchers at University of South Australia are developing a world-first product to design traffic lights that absorb kinetic energy, stopping them from crumpling when hit by a vehicle. The technology has the potential to reduce road safety-related costs and injuries worldwide.
A new study from the University of South Australia is investigating the benefits of a unique sport called RaceRunning for children with cerebral palsy. The research aims to assess the impact on physical, social, and mental health, finding improvements in muscle strength, mobility, and participation in sporting activities.
Researchers have designed a digital camera-based system that can accurately detect jaundice in newborns within one second, sending diagnoses to carers via SMS. The system uses image processing techniques to detect bilirubin levels, triggering blue LED phototherapy and treatment.
A new study highlights the need for sustainable dietary choices to reduce food-related greenhouse gas emissions. Reducing discretionary foods like sweets, pastries, and processed meats can help lower emissions, which contribute to climate change.
A global review found bioaerosols can be transmitted throughout a building by defective plumbing and that opening toilet lids after flushing disperses contaminated droplets. Uncovered rubbish bins and poor surface cleaning also contribute to high bacterial loads.
New research from the University of South Australia finds that the 5:2 diet is just as effective as a continuous energy-restricted diet in achieving weight loss and preventing type 2 diabetes in women with a previous diagnosis of gestational diabetes. The study suggests that this diet offers greater choice and flexibility for women loo...
Researchers developed a new method to locate groundwater using satellite imagery, geospatial techniques, and GIS. The technique identifies most effective recharge zones as those with numerous rock fractures, low drainage, and gentle slopes.
A new report from the University of South Australia reveals that refugee children are more likely to succeed academically if their parents share their story and their school empowers them. Schools with bilingual staff also show promise in building strong parent-school relationships.
A study published in BMJ Open found a significant link between asymmetric brain arteries and the likelihood of developing a cerebral aneurysm. The research suggests that MRI and CT angiograms can be used to screen people with asymmetrical brain arteries for cerebral aneurysms, providing a new tool for monitoring those at risk.
A systematic review of 80 health industry studies found that pressuring children to eat negatively influences fussy eating, while a more relaxed parenting style and family meals reduce the likelihood. Researchers recommend positive parenting and involving kids in meal preparation to help them overcome picky eating habits.
Researchers developed a customisable time tool, the Goldilocks Day calculator, to help parents allocate hours and activities for optimal health outcomes. The tool considers physical health, cognitive abilities, and mental wellbeing, allowing parents to adjust daily schedules based on their child's needs.
Researchers from the University of South Australia are conducting a new study to understand what works well and what needs improvement in clinical trials for cancer patients. The study aims to identify barriers to trial participation and inform best practice, ultimately improving access to clinical trials and systems across Adelaide.
University of South Australia researchers create a computer vision system to detect premature babies' faces and vital signs from digital cameras, outperforming electrocardiogram machines. The technology has the potential to replace contact-based sensors, reducing skin tearing and infections.
A new research project by the University of South Australia aims to identify ways for people to grow and sustain meaningful connections as they age. Older adults participating in environmental citizen science projects, such as weekly guided nature walks and wildlife photography, may experience improved physical activity, health, and we...
A new study from the University of South Australia reveals that Australian firms with large gender pay gaps are not only perpetuating inequality but also harming their overall performance. The research found that women executives in top management teams can lower a firm's annual return on assets by 2.2%.
A wastewater study conducted in Australia during the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown found that cannabis use surged, while methamphetamine (ice) use plummeted. The research, led by the University of South Australia, analyzed wastewater samples from 20 treatment plants across the country and showed a significant increase in cannabis use nationwide.
A unique study co-designed by young women aims to develop trauma-informed, gender-responsive mental health resources. The initiative seeks to provide dedicated safe spaces for young women to connect, lean on each other, and share experiences.
A study funded by Channel 7 Children's Research Foundation identifies social contexts, supports and systems that helped young adults reject domestic violence. Researchers aim to provide evidence-based information to inform initiatives to encourage healthy relationships.
A world-first study found that cancer patients receiving chemotherapy intravenously have more than double the risk of developing a blood clot or thrombosis if the vein is too small and the catheter occupies more than 45% of the vein. Researchers identified specific limits on catheter-to-vein ratios to reduce risks for cancer patients.
A new study has found that harmful body fat can increase the risk of dementia and stroke, with grey matter atrophy being a key indicator. The research used genetic data from over 336,000 individuals to establish a link between obesity and declining brain health.
A large study found that high coffee consumption is associated with reduced brain volume and an increased risk of dementia. Researchers warn that excessive coffee drinking, beyond six cups a day, may put individuals at risk for brain diseases such as dementia and stroke.
A new study by University of South Australia researchers found that virtual reality leads to better recall, spatial accuracy, and more consistent verdicts. Participants viewing a 3D scene were 9.5 times more likely to choose the same verdict than those relying on photographs.
A new study found that many parents recognize signs of sleep-disordered breathing in their children but fail to bring it up with their doctor. Parents are advised to check on their child's sleep quality and share concerns with their doctor to catch potential health issues early.
A study published in Human Dimensions of Wildlife found that 96% of shark films portray sharks as a threat to humans. Dr Briana Le Busque and Associate Professor Carla Litchfield warn that sensationalized depictions can harm conservation efforts by perpetuating misconceptions about shark behavior and risk.
A genetic biobank containing DNA from 25 babies who died from SIDS in South Australia could help identify genetic causes and prevent future deaths. The biobank will enable researchers to test babies at birth for risk factors and closely monitor those identified, potentially saving hundreds of baby lives.
Australian researchers aim to improve risk classification and identify therapeutic drugs for neuroblastoma, the deadliest solid tumour in children under five. They will use patient data and genetically engineered stem cells to model the disease process and predict patient outcomes.
A newly detected alien aphid, Aphis lugentis, poses a significant threat to Kangaroo Island's threatened plant species, including the scented groundsel. The discovery highlights concerns over invasive species' spread across Australia, with potential economic losses estimated at A$13.6 billion.
A study by the University of South Australia suggests that public resistance to inheritance and estate taxes has declined in Australia. Researchers found that two-thirds of young adults and senior Australians are in favor of taxing estates worth more than $3m, which could help address social inequalities and increase government revenue.
A world-first AI study will map genetic and physical risks of ovarian cancer based on UK Biobank data. The project aims to identify biomarkers for early detection and improve survival rates.
A year-long Australian population study found full-time workers in poorly managed organisations have a threefold increased risk of being diagnosed with depression. Poor workplace mental health can be traced back to poor management practices and low resources.
A two-year study will explore the health benefits of older people adhering to a Mediterranean diet and undertaking daily walking. Early pilots show improved memory and thinking in participants who followed the MedWalk intervention.
Children with documented child protection concerns are four times as likely to die before their 16th birthday due to family abuse and neglect. The study found a significant excess risk of death among boys and girls with the most serious child protection concerns, highlighting the need for improved services.
New research highlights the importance of coastal seaweed for migratory shorebirds, providing shelter and microclimates that regulate their body temperatures. Removing beach-cast sea wrack can have devastating impacts on bird populations.
A new international study has identified a drug that can halt the progression of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) in sportspeople who sustain repeated head injuries. The treatment was successfully tested in animal models and shows promise for preventing neurological problems associated with CTE, which affects cognition and behavior.
A new study from the University of South Australia found that regular milk consumption is associated with a lower risk of heart disease. The research, which analyzed genetic biomarkers in over 400,000 people, suggests that milk's calcium content may contribute to improved cholesterol levels and reduced cardiovascular risk.
Children who undergo adenotonsillectomy surgery to treat sleep disorders experience improved sleep quality and quality of life. However, their behavior remains unchanged. The study suggests that parents may be reassured by post-operative improvements in behavior due to factors such as increased family sleep and reduced parental worry.
A new COVID-19 vaccine developed using the Sementis Copenhagen Vector (SCV) platform is being accelerated for human clinical trials within 18 months. The vaccine aims to provide long-term and broad-ranging immunity against SARS-CoV-2, including mutant strains.
Researchers have developed a novel nanotechnology that can improve the effectiveness of the CF antibiotic Tobramycin, increasing its efficacy against Pseudomonas aeruginosa lung infections. The technology has shown to eradicate infections in as little as two doses, providing new hope for people living with cystic fibrosis.
A recent study has identified discrepancies in World Health Organization (WHO) classifications of pesticide hazards, leading to the continued use of potentially lethal pesticides in developing countries. The researchers propose eliminating all pesticides with fatality rates above five per cent to reduce suicides.
Researchers at UniSA identified an enzyme, NEDD4-2, that regulates sodium reabsorption in kidneys. Low levels of the protein are linked to chronic kidney disease progression, even without high blood pressure.
Researchers have discovered that nanoparticles containing chemotherapy drug Capecitabine can attach to diseased cells, bypassing healthy ones and reducing toxic side effects. This targeted delivery system has shown promising results in animal experiments, improving cancer treatment outcomes.
A new study from the University of South Australia reveals that most cases of child maltreatment occur within intergenerational cycles, with 83% of substantiated cases involving mothers who experienced abuse. The study highlights the urgent need for better support for victims and their children to disrupt this cycle.
Researchers found that people with high blood pressure are more likely to drink less coffee or choose decaf, highlighting the role of genetics in regulating coffee consumption for cardio health. Genetic tolerance to caffeine is linked to coffee drinking habits, suggesting a protective mechanism.
A study of 1179 children aged 11-12 years found that moderate-to-vigorous physical exercise was 2-6 times more potent than sleep or sedentary time in improving physical and mental health. Exercising 17 minutes more, sleeping an extra 52 minutes, or reducing sitting time by 56 minutes can achieve similar benefits.