Science and research news from Australia. Covers Indigenous language teaching, menopause information, conservation, and open-access agreements.
Scientists in Australia have developed a novel method to stitch together microfluidic analytical devices using ordinary cotton thread and sewing needles, promising revolutionary applications in medicine and environmental sensing. This simple and relatively low-cost approach uses the wicking properties of cotton thread to transport flui...
The February issue of Lithosphere highlights the evolution of the northwestern Red Sea, with two main tectonic events contributing to its formation. The study also explores the Fish Lake Valley fault in eastern California and the incision of major rivers into the Tibetan Plateau's bedrock.
A phase 2 trial of denosumab has shown encouraging results in treating a rare type of brain tumor. The study found that 86% of patients experienced a tumor response, including some with lung lesions, and reported clinical benefits such as reduced pain and improved mobility.
Developed by INRS researchers, the new microring resonator offers several advantages, including low-cost fabrication and a single low-power laser source to obtain multiple wavelengths. This technological breakthrough is crucial as electronic devices reach their data transmission capacity limit.
A study found that Australian general practitioners frequently ignore international clinical guidelines for treating low back pain. The investigation, published in Archives of Internal Medicine, revealed that key aspects of usual care did not align with guideline recommendations.
The majority of ex-smokers stop smoking without assistance, with most reporting cessation as less difficult than expected. Pharmaceutical companies' influence on cessation studies has led to an overemphasis on assisted methods.
A Monash University-led nationwide study found that severely obese individuals feel powerless to change their weight due to internalized stigma and shame. In contrast, mildly to moderately obese individuals believed they could lose weight if needed, but felt no urgent need to do so.
Australians in New South Wales Territory face heavy rainfall and potential flooding due to Tropical Cyclone Olga's remnants. The region is expected to experience widespread moderate to heavy rainfall over the next couple of days.
NASA satellite imagery shows Tropical Storm Olga regaining strength in the Gulf of Carpentaria, with estimated sea level pressure near 989 millibars. Residents in Northern Territory and Queensland are under tropical cyclone warnings and watches due to expected landfall on January 30.
NASA and JAXA satellite data combined with ground weather station information aid in forecasting tropical cyclone tracks. Olga's center is expected to remain over land, but Australian Bureau of Meteorology forecasts its reemergence into the Gulf of Carpentaria.
Tropical Storm Olga has maximum sustained winds near 39 mph and is moving northwest near 4 mph. It is expected to turn north and enter the Gulf of Carpentaria, where it will strengthen before making another landfall near the Queensland border.
Researchers from The George Institute for International Health conducted a systematic survey to monitor sodium content in Australian processed foods. The study provides valuable tools for continued monitoring and reformulation efforts to lower sodium levels, ultimately reducing the risk of elevated blood pressure among Australians.
Cyclone Magda made landfall in northern Australia, with NASA's Terra satellite capturing a clear image of the storm. The heaviest rain is located on the western half of the system, but those thunderstorms are weakening.
Tropical Storm Magda is expected to bring gusty winds of up to 93 mph and heavy rainfall to coastal areas in North Western Australia. The storm's center is predicted to make landfall on January 22, with the potential for flooding in low-lying areas.
A new scientific paper provides strong evidence that humans caused the extinction of Australia's megafauna, rather than climate change. Direct dating methods show that humans and megafauna co-existed for a short time, supporting the argument that hunting led to their demise.
Researchers at the University of Melbourne discovered a type of cell that causes T cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia in children. Targeting these cells could reduce treatment length and toxicity, leading to better patient outcomes.
Research reveals that school classroom air contains significantly higher levels of ultrafine particles than polluted outdoor air, posing a risk to students' lung health. The study found elevated particle levels during art activities and cleaning with detergents.
Researchers are developing a smart bushfire monitoring system that uses temperature and humidity sensors connected to GPS and wireless communication technologies. The system offers several benefits over earlier detection methods, including easy adaptability and low initial expense.
Researchers have identified the genetic marker for Devil Facial Tumour Disease (DFTD), a transmissible cancer affecting only Tasmanian devils. The discovery reveals that DFTD originates from Schwann cells, which protect peripheral nerve fibres.
Researchers found that coordinated conservation efforts across national borders can achieve higher results and save up to 45% of costs compared to uncoordinated plans. The study estimates a potential savings of $67 billion for the Mediterranean region's biodiversity conservation efforts.
Researchers discovered bees use their antennae to estimate surface slope, allowing them to orient correctly and land on surfaces ranging from horizontal to ceilings. By slowing down in the final moments before touchdown, bees control their approach and optimize landing speed.
Australian scientists have discovered that the brain plays a crucial role in regulating bone formation, fine-tuning the process based on energy availability. The neural network controlling appetite and energy also influences bone density, with starvation reducing bone creation and overeating increasing it.
Skull fragments of prehistoric koalas from the Riversleigh rainforests suggest they had a 'lazy' lifestyle and produced loud calls like modern koalas. However, they did not share the specialized eucalyptus leaf diet.
Tropical Cyclone Laurence made landfall in northern West Australia as a Category 2 hurricane, but its winds are waning, and it is expected to weaken further. The storm's maximum sustained winds near 103 mph (90 knots) were revealed by TRMM's Precipitation Radar instrument.
Tropical Cyclone Laurence made landfall in Western Australia with sustained winds of up to 86 mph. The storm is expected to track deeper into the continent and dissipate over the next two days.
Researchers uncovered genetic fossils of woolly mammoths and ancient American horses in permafrost samples dated to between 7,600 and 10,500 years. The study challenges the conventional view that these species disappeared from the Americas about 12,000 years ago.
Researchers observed veined octopuses using coconut shells to create a shelter, traveling up to 20 meters while carrying stacked shells beneath their body. The behavior is distinct from hermit crabs and suggests that even marine invertebrates engage in tool use.
Tropical Storm Laurence is forecasted to make its second landfall in Australia, impacting the northern Kimberley coast and potentially causing heavy rainfall and beach erosion. Residents in the affected areas are advised to take action in preparation for the cyclone's arrival.
The study examines crustal melting during continental subduction, revealing evidence of igneous diapirism and its impact on mountain belts. Researchers also investigate the weight of the Andes affecting the continental crust and correlate the Mocha fracture zone with orogenic uplift.
The report highlights concerns such as ocean warming, acidification, changes in current strengths, productivity, and species distribution. It offers adaptation responses to inform policymakers, scientists, and the community.
A three-year study in remote communities found a significant reduction in skin sores among Aboriginal children, with over 6000 assessments conducted on nearly 2500 children. The program's success highlights the importance of local education and treatment, but ongoing efforts are needed to address underlying causes such as poor housing ...
A study of 18,871 Australian drivers found that those who engaged in self-harm behaviors were more likely to be involved in multiple-vehicle crashes. The study suggests that effective interventions addressing self-harm could benefit young drivers and reduce the risk of motor vehicle crashes.
A new study found that foreign subtitles can enhance second-language listening ability, particularly when the subtitles are in the same language as the film. English subtitling was associated with improved recognition of both familiar and unfamiliar words, while Dutch subtitling reduced this effect on new materials.
A fossil plant discovery by Peter Wilf and colleagues has reassigned the species Libocedrus prechilensis to Papuacedrus, indicating that Patagonia was once a warm, wet tropical place. This find also establishes a connection between tropical West Pacific regions and Australia via a forested Antarctic land bridge during the Eocene.
A one-year study found that participants on a low-fat diet experienced improved mood and well-being compared to those on a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet. The study suggests that the low-carb diet may have detrimental effects on mood due to its structured nature and potential social challenges.
A study of postmenopausal women found that the risk of hip fractures steeply rises with age, being seven times higher in 70-74 year olds than in 50-54 year olds. The study also discovered a slightly increased risk for early menopause before age 45.
Researchers from Australia and the UK call for a new approach to sports sponsorship debates, shifting the burden of proof to the alcohol industry. They argue that the industry should show that sponsorship does not cause unhealthy alcohol use among adults or encourage children to drink.
The survey found that half of US doctors spend substantial time dealing with insurance restrictions on patient care, while only 46% use electronic medical records. Many US physicians also report patients having difficulty paying for medications and care, and that their practices do not have provisions for after-hours care.
Australian scientists have achieved world-leading oil production rates from algae grown in open saline ponds, paving the way for commercial quantities of clean biofuel. The multi-million dollar pilot plant will test the whole process on a larger scale and aims to produce biofuel at less than $1 a kilo.
A University of Adelaide study found a link between late pregnancy folic acid supplements and increased risk of asthma in children. The study suggests that the timing of supplementation is crucial in minimizing potential adverse effects.
A Monash University study found that rates of gastroenteritis were similar between households with treated and untreated rainwater. The results confirm there is a low risk of illness from drinking rainwater, making it safe for activities like showering and bathing.
Researchers compare DNA from museum specimens to that of living canids, revealing the Falklands wolf's closest living relative is the maned wolf. The team also finds a common ancestor at least 70,000 years ago, suggesting the wolves arrived in the islands before humans entered the New World.
A study found that Australian reporting standards do not require disclosure of the names of speakers, financial ties, and company roles in sponsored events. The analysis showed that medical specialists received high per-head expenditure on high-cost drugs at industry-sponsored events.
A breakthrough in the fight against Hendra virus has been achieved with the development of a treatment that shows great potential to save lives. The treatment, administered after exposure to Nipah virus, protected animals from disease in a model.
Dr. Mark Easton received the award for his work on grain refinement and development of new alloys for casting applications. He is recognized for leading teams in Australian and global research communities.
Scientists have discovered a mechanism that connects diet, gut bacteria, and the immune system, shedding light on how certain diseases can be alleviated by consuming insoluble dietary fibre. This breakthrough research suggests that altering diets could lead to significant changes in gut bacteria profiles.
Two new studies found evidence of a large volcanic eruption in 1809 that contributed to the coldest decade on record. Researchers analyzed ice cores from Greenland and Antarctica, as well as stalagmites in Turkey, to shed light on this event. The findings challenge previous theories on climate change and provide valuable insights into ...
EMBO has elected 66 top-life scientists with expertise in various molecular biology fields, including evolutionary and computational biology. The new members come from 16 countries and include 15 female researchers recognized for their contributions to life science research.
A review estimates that 166 million adults worldwide aged 15-64 years used cannabis in 2006, despite the risks of its adverse effects on health. Regular cannabis smokers report more symptoms of chronic bronchitis and cognitive impairments, while cannabis use is associated with poor educational attainment.
A study published in JAMA found that most patients with severe respiratory failure due to 2009 influenza A(H1N1) and treated with an oxygenating system survived the disease. The study analyzed data from 68 patients who received extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support, and found that 54 had survived and 14 had died.
The University of Adelaide's Professor Konrad Jamrozik has spent 30 years campaigning against smoking and helping smokers quit. He has contributed significantly to tobacco control through his research, clinical trials, and advocacy.
A comprehensive study on H1N1 virus impact in Australia and New Zealand reveals 20% ICU bed occupancy during peak epidemic. The study shares critical illness patterns, including unexpected effects on middle-aged individuals and pregnant patients.
Researchers found that Cupriavidus metallidurans catalyzes gold biomineralization by transforming toxic compounds to metallic gold. The bacterium plays a key role in the formation of gold nuggets by accumulating and reducing toxic gold complexes.
A 12,500-person trial will assess daily low-dose aspirin on health in Australian and US seniors. The study aims to inform health guidelines for older adults, considering aspirin's potential benefits and side effects.
Scientists have developed a potential new material for diagnosing malignant melanoma with greater accuracy than current imaging agents. The substance, called fluoronicotinamides, revealed melanoma cells with high tumor-to-body contrast ratio and rapid renal clearance.
The CSIRO Wellbeing Plan for Kids provides guidance on healthy habits, managing challenges, and motivating families to make changes that can last. The book offers over 100 delicious recipes and is based on extensive research.
Pre- and post-menopausal women with high sexual satisfaction had higher overall psychological well-being scores and vitalty compared to dissatisfied counterparts. The study highlights the importance of addressing sexual health in women's healthcare.
A new study reveals that the Komodo dragon most likely evolved in Australia and dispersed westward to Indonesia. The research, published in PLOS ONE, also details fossil evidence of a new species of giant varanid found on the island of Timor.
A population-based study found that initiating cholinesterase inhibitor therapy for dementia increases the risk of hospitalization for bradycardia by over doubling. Meanwhile, a separate team led by Louisa Degenhardt examines cannabis use as a risk factor for psychosis and proposes its inclusion in global burden of disease estimates.
Australian researchers have discovered a vast number of new species of invertebrates living in underground water, caves and micro-caverns across arid and semi-arid Australia. The team found whole communities of previously unknown invertebrate animals, revealing a completely new component to the country's biodiversity.