Latest research: Restricting pub closing times reduces assaults
A 2008 study in Newcastle, Australia found that restricting pub closing times reduced assault rates by 37%. The study compared CBD and suburban areas and found no displacement effect.
Australia
Science and research news from Australia. Covers Indigenous language teaching, menopause information, conservation, and open-access agreements.
Specialist health journalists write better news stories
A five-year analysis of Australian news stories found that stories written by specialist health journalists working for a single media outlet were of higher quality than those written by less experienced writers. The study highlights the importance of this source of health literacy as traditional media faces financial challenges.
Gene discovery could yield treatments for nearsightedness
Scientists at Duke University Medical Center have identified a gene associated with myopia in Caucasian people, providing new hope for gene therapies. The RASGRF1 gene plays a crucial role in retinal function and visual memory consolidation, making it a promising target for treatment.
What are babies made of? Research shows for some it is sugar, salt and not all things nice
A new Australian study found that almost one in four mothers introduced fruit juice, biscuits, and cakes to their infants by six months of age. This early introduction to unhealthy foods is a concern as it can lead to lifelong eating habits and an increased risk of obesity.
Study challenges value of oxygen therapy in end-of-life care
A new study from Duke University Medical Center found that half of patients with advanced disease in palliative care settings don't benefit from oxygen therapy, and receiving pure oxygen or room air offers equal relief. The study suggests alternative methods, such as using a small fan, may be equally effective.
Study links shorter sleep durations with greater risks of mental distress in young adults
A study found a linear association between short sleep durations and psychological distress in young adults, with increased risks for those sleeping less than six hours per night. The risk of persistent distress was also higher, especially among those with extremely short sleep durations.
Heart disorder hits national epidemic proportions
Atrial fibrillation hospital admissions in Australia have increased by over 200% since 1993, resulting in an alarming number of hospitalizations.
Governments should pay for smoking cessation therapies
Quebec's lead on publicly funding smoking cessation pharmacotherapies could benefit all Canadians, with a potential gain of 1.9 million life-years. Full financial reimbursement significantly improves abstinence rates and extends the lifespan of former smokers.
SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateAug 30, 2010
Breast cancer survivors don't need to be afraid of air travel: U of A study
A recent study led by University of Alberta researcher Margie McNeely found that only five percent of breast cancer survivors are at risk of developing arm swelling due to air travel. The research involved 60 Canadian women who flew to Australia and showed that 95% had no arm swelling.
Powering Australia with waves
Researchers estimate that harnessing 10% of Australia's near-shore wave energy could generate enough electricity to meet half of the country's present-day consumption. This could contribute significantly to Australia's goal of producing 45,000 gigawatt-hours/year of additional renewable energy by 2020.
SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateAug 17, 2010
Census of Marine Life publishes historic roll call of species in 25 key world areas
The Census of Marine Life has published a historic roll call of species in 25 biologically representative regions, revealing the most diverse marine ecosystems. The study found that Australian and Japanese waters are home to over 33,000 species, with mollusks and crustaceans making up half of all known species.
Reforestation projects capture more carbon than industrial plantations, reveals new research
New research reveals that reforestation of damaged rainforests captures more carbon than softwood monoculture plantations. Restoration projects store significantly more carbon in above-ground biomass compared to monoculture and mixed-species plantations.
A hop from South America -- tracking Australian marsupials
Research reveals that Australian marsupials descended from a single ancestral South American species, suggesting a simplified migration scenario across Antarctica. The study used retroposon markers to reconstruct the marsupial family tree and confirm this finding.
Scientists tap into Antarctic octopus venom
Researchers have collected venom from Antarctic octopuses for the first time, discovering four new species and uncovering unique properties. The study provides insight into the adaptation of venom to sub-zero temperatures, which could lead to breakthroughs in pain management, allergies, and cancer treatment.
Relationships hold key to spiritual care
Researchers found that relationships are a crucial factor in spirituality, with 87% of patients considering spirituality important in their lives. The study recommends focusing on presence, journeying together, and engaging in reciprocal sharing to improve spiritual care.
Where the wild veggies are
Researchers have found that the wild populations giving rise to melons and cucumbers originated in Asia, contrary to previous assumptions. The study analyzed genetic material from over 100 species of Cucumis, revealing a close living relative of the cultivated melon is native to Australia.
SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 20, 2010
Australian study shows supportive community programs can prevent women from gaining weight
A simple community program has been shown to be effective in preventing excess weight gain among young mothers. Women who attended the HeLP-her Community Lifestyle Program lost an average of 0.27kg over 12 months, while those in a control group gained 1.72kg.
Simple diagnostic tool predicts type 2 diabetes in Southeast Asians
A simple diagnostic tool predicts type 2 diabetes in Vietnamese individuals based on high systolic blood pressure and waist-to-hip ratio. The prevalence of undiagnosed diabetes is estimated to be around 11% for men and 12% for women, with approximately 350,000 people affected in Ho Chi Minh City.
Can aspirin prolong a healthy life?
The ASPREE study aims to assess whether aspirin can prolong a life free of physical disability and dementia in healthy older people. The trial will enroll 6,500 participants in the US and Australia and monitor changes in health markers, functional ability, and cognitive function over five years.
Attitudes, beliefs and health literacy impact how patients manage chronic lower-back pain
A new study published in Pain found that patients' attitudes and beliefs about chronic lower-back pain significantly affect their disability levels. The study highlights the importance of health literacy in managing CLBP, with individuals with high disability citing anatomical reasons for their pain experience.
Warmer is better: Invasive cane toads set to thrive under global warming
Research shows that cane toads can adapt well to rising temperatures, with their oxygen transport system becoming more efficient as heat rises. The findings contradict previous studies suggesting a decrease in efficiency at high temperatures, and may have implications for other anurans.
Is this the perfect prawn?
CSIRO scientists have developed an improved Black Tiger prawn breed using DNA technology, resulting in record yields of up to 24.2 tonnes per hectare. This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize the Australian prawn farming industry and increase production from 5,000 tonnes to 12,500 tonnes by 2020.
'Pretty much everything that happens under the UNFCCC or against it has a legal angle'
The new journal Climate Law aims to publish the best essays on climate law, governance and related ideas. The journal will debate the contours of the field and report from the field, with a focus on clarity, accuracy and engagement.
Podcasting language
Researchers suggest podcasting can foster a positive attitude towards learning English as a foreign language due to improved mobile device technologies. However, the factors influencing technology adoption remain crucial for its successful implementation.
SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Mobile Communications·DateJun 14, 2010
Natural energy to help power exploration of the universe
The Australian government is funding a project to develop renewable energy technologies for the Murchison Radio-astronomy Observatory and the Pawsey High-Performance Computing Centre. The Sustainable Energy for SKA facility will support solar and photovoltaic technology and direct heat geothermal demonstrator to cool supercomputers.
Mutant gene link to West Nile virus in horses
A study by University of Adelaide scientists has confirmed that a mutated OAS1 gene increases the vulnerability of horses to the West Nile virus. The findings suggest that genetic mechanisms play a similar role in humans and horses, highlighting the potential for screening valuable horses for the presence of the mutation.
9 new species for disappearing handfish family
Nine new species of handfish have been described by CSIRO, bringing the total to 14 known species. The discovery deepens concerns about declining populations and environmental vulnerability.
Consumers and their rights: A new study from Australia
A new Australian study found that mainstream consumers value prudence and self-control, but lack sympathy for those with high credit card debt. The research suggests consumer advocacy is a top-down phenomenon driven by governments and media, leading to limited personal action.
Astronomers plan second look at mega star birthing grounds
An international team of astronomers will conduct a closer look at the mega star birthing cloud, located 8,000 light years away in the Southern sky constellation Carina. The cloud is collapsing in on itself, offering an unusual view into behemoth star birth and providing insights into the formation of our solar system.
SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateMay 10, 2010
New study ranks countries on environment impact
The University of Adelaide's Environment Institute has ranked countries based on their environmental impact using seven indicators. The study found that total wealth is the most important driver of environmental impact, contradicting the Kuznets curve hypothesis.
First scientific study showing effects of growth hormone on athletes
Researchers found growth hormone increases sprint capacity by 4-5% in athletes, but no effect on muscle mass. Athletes experienced swelling and joint pain with growth hormone use.
Copycat behavior in children is universal and may help promote human culture
A new study reveals that copycat behavior in children is a universal human activity, where they mimic everything an adult shows them, even if it's irrelevant. This finding sheds light on how humans develop and transmit culture.
Aboriginal hunting and burning increase Australia's desert biodiversity, Stanford researchers find
Martu hunter-gatherers' traditional practices have reshaped Australia's Western Desert habitats, creating biologically diverse areas. The use of fire in their hunting grounds encourages the growth of diverse vegetation, allowing small mammals to thrive.
Resurrected mammoth blood very cool
Researchers have successfully recreated mammoth haemoglobin using ancient DNA from Siberian specimens. The team's findings reveal unique physiological adaptations that allowed mammoths to survive in harsh Arctic conditions, enabling them to cool their extremities and minimize heat loss.
Worldwide mortality in men and women aged 15-59 years, 1970-2010: Australia, Iceland and Cyprus among best performers, while many African and former Soviet states among worst
The study reveals that Australia and South Korea have some of the highest annual rates of decline in adult mortality. Iceland and Cyprus rank as the lowest risk countries for men and women, respectively. However, the HIV epidemic and social dysfunction in former Soviet states have contributed to high mortality rates in many countries.
Melting sea ice major cause of warming in Arctic, new study reveals
A recent study published in Nature found that rapidly melting sea ice is a major cause of warming in the Arctic. The research, conducted by the University of Melbourne, discovered a positive feedback loop between sea ice melting and atmospheric warming, leading to increased warming rates in the region.
New monitor lizard discovered in Indonesia
A newly discovered species of monitor lizard, Varanus obor, has been found in the Moluccan islands of east Indonesia. The Torch monitor, as it is known, can grow up to four feet in length and thrives on a diet of small animals and carrion.
Interruptions associated with medication errors by nurses
Nurses who are interrupted while administering medication appear to have an increased risk of making medication errors. Interruptions during task preparation and administration contribute to inefficiency and errors, according to a report in the Archives of Internal Medicine.
Cyclone 24S now all grown up and renamed Tropical Storm Sean
Cyclone 24S was renamed Tropical Storm Sean as it matured, going through two numbered nicknames before receiving its human name. It showed strong thunderstorms with cloud tops as cold as -63°F, and forecasters predict further intensification over the next 12-24 hours.
World-first study for cleaner aviation fuel
A team of experts has embarked on a groundbreaking project to develop sustainable aviation fuels in Australia and New Zealand. The Sustainable Aviation Fuels Road Map aims to accelerate the development of bio-derived jet fuels that can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the aviation sector.
Uncovering early stages of Alzheimer's disease
Researchers discovered that regions of the brain with increased amyloid-beta deposits are not the same as those with atrophy due to neuron loss. The study found that these regions can disrupt connections with the hippocampus, leading to neuron death.
New CSIRO soybean a hit in Japan
The Bunya soybean variety is gaining popularity in Japan due to its enhanced suitability as an ingredient in traditional Japanese dishes. Its unique gelation properties make it ideal for producing a range of soy-based foods like tofu and custard.
Endangered quolls taught to turn their noses up at toxic toad
Researchers successfully trained northern quolls to associate the taste of toxic cane toads with nausea, allowing them to survive up to five times longer in areas infested with these invasives. This approach could provide a vital new weapon in the fight against invasive species.
Second-hand smoke toxicity in cars: Myth into fact
A study published in Canadian Medical Association Journal found no scientific evidence to support the claim that smoking in cars is 23 times more toxic than in other indoor environments. The 23 times estimate originated from a media report and has been widely cited, but its lack of basis in fact poses credibility issues.
SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateApr 12, 2010
Tropical Storm Robyn nested away from land
Tropical Storm Robyn formed in the Southern Indian Ocean on April 2, with maximum sustained winds near 60 knots. The storm's strong thunderstorms and heavy rainfall are safely nested over open waters, but it is expected to weaken over the next three days due to higher vertical wind shear.
NASA's TRMM satellite maps Cyclone Paul's extreme rainfall totals in Australia
The TRMM satellite measured heavy rainfall totals from ex-tropical storm Paul, which left up to 11 inches of rain in northern Australia. The data confirmed significant flooding, with areas receiving between 100-200mm of rainfall and some reaching up to 300mm.
Warnings dropped for ex-cyclone Paul as NASA satellites see it fizzle
NASA's Aqua satellite detected a weakened Cyclone Paul over the Gulf of Carpentaria, Australia, leading to the cancellation of all mainland weather warnings. The storm's remnants are expected to track inland and weaken further, with only coastal waters warning in effect.
TRMM satellite sees Paul's low headed back to Gulf of Carpentaria
Cyclone Paul has moved back toward the Gulf of Carpentaria, with a cyclone watch in effect for coastal communities. TRMM satellite data shows light to moderate rainfall over land and isolated heavy rain over the Gulf.
Ancient snakes living on Madagascar
Scientists have found that blindsnakes, a group of worm-like snakes, are one of the few organisms that inhabited Madagascar when it separated from India 100 million years ago. The study reveals that continental drift played a crucial role in their evolution, with populations separating as continents moved apart.
Predicting what they say
A study published in Language reveals that people are remarkably accurate in predicting the syntax of others' speech, thanks to their knowledge of linguistic probability. This skill has significant applications for educators, entrepreneurs and those working with individuals with language disorders.
Scientists find first ever southern tyrannosaur dinosaur
Researchers identify 110 million-year-old tyrannosaur hip bone from Australia, challenging the idea that tyrannosaurs only existed in the northern hemisphere. The discovery sheds new light on the group's evolutionary history and raises questions about why they evolved into giant predators like T. rex only in the north.
TRMM satellite rainfall map of Cyclone Ului's Queensland flooding
Cyclone Ului brought heavy rain to Queensland, Australia, with TRMM satellite capturing the storm's intense rainfall. The cyclone dumped over 180 mm of rain along its path, with Mackay airport reporting 145 mm in 24 hours.
NASA's TRMM Satellite measures Cyclone Ului's Australian rainfall from space
TRMM data revealed that Cyclone Ului brought heavy rainfall to western Queensland, with estimates suggesting 5.1-7.0 inches of rain fell in some areas. The satellite's precipitation radar and microwave radiometers provided detailed insights into the cyclone's track and potential flooding.
A NASA satellite mosaic of twin tropical troublesome cyclones: Tomas and Ului
Tropical Cyclone Ului is a Category Three storm in the South Pacific Ocean, affecting the Solomon Islands and expected to turn west towards Australia. Meanwhile, Tropical Cyclone Tomas is weakening due to cooler sea surface temperatures and vertical wind shear, posing a threat to Fiji.
Solomon Islands under warnings for Category 4 Cyclone Ului
The Solomon Islands are under threat from Cyclone Ului, a powerful Category 4 cyclone affecting the islands. The storm is expected to continue tracking westward before turning southward and weakening due to increasing vertical wind shear.
NASA's Aqua Satellite shows strong convection in Tropical Storm Ului
Tropical cyclone 20P has strengthened into a tropical storm in the South Pacific Ocean, with a large cluster of high, cold thunderstorms around its center. The storm is moving west at 7 mph and has maximum sustained winds near 52 mph.
Pew announces 2010 recipients of distinguished marine conservation fellowship
The Pew Environment Group announced five individuals receiving the 2010 Pew Fellowship in Marine Conservation to address pressing challenges in ocean conservation. The Fellows will focus on projects such as reducing seabird bycatch, protecting coral reefs, and enhancing shellfish management.
First signal received by future telescope
The first antenna of the Australia Square Kilometre Array Pathfinder (ASKAP) telescope has received its first radio signals, paving the way for further development. The successful test demonstrates the feasibility of ASKAP's innovative design and sets a promising stage for the future telescope's scientific discoveries.
No more dithering on e-health
The use of electronic health records is critical for patient safety and Canada is lagging behind; the country needs timely targets for universal adoption, especially in primary care. Mandating the use of e-health records may be necessary to avoid long delays and ensure its effective implementation.
SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMar 1, 2010
World-class protection boosts Australia's Great Barrier Reef
The study reveals rapid increases in fish populations inside no-take reserves, improving ecosystem health and resilience. Additionally, the reserve network helps threatened species like dugongs and marine turtles.
SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 21, 2010