Science and research news from Australia. Covers Indigenous language teaching, menopause information, conservation, and open-access agreements.
Researchers demonstrate that female mice with damaged heart cells can still fully function at birth thanks to the proliferation of healthy cells. However, some mice develop heart problems later in life, highlighting the need for further investigation into the gene's influence on adult hearts.
A new study predicts that a two-degree temperature increase could shrink kangaroo populations by 48% and lead to their possible extinction in northern Australia. Climate change is likely to affect habitats, particularly water availability, making it harder for kangaroos to adapt.
Researchers have discovered how bacteria respond to stress, shedding light on their infectious potential and the development of new drugs to combat bacterial infections. The stressosome molecule protects cells from external danger, triggering a response to adapt to changes in environment.
A study of film synopses and 280 films between 1900 and 2007 found that unflattering stereotypes are decreasing, while nurses are now portrayed as intelligent, strong, and passionate characters. This shift reflects the growth of the nursing profession and changing societal attitudes towards women's roles.
People with psychiatric disabilities in Australia smoke at four times the rate of the general population, despite efforts to reduce smoking rates. More than six in ten smokers with mental illness consumed over 22 cigarettes a day.
A four-fold increase in global carbon dioxide emissions has been reported since 2000, with growth rates outpacing natural carbon sinks. Australian fossil-fuel emissions have grown by two per cent per year, making the country's reduction target increasingly challenging.
A new study published in the British Journal of Psychiatry reveals that women who smoke are at greater risk of developing major depressive disorder. Smoking was found to more than double the likelihood of developing depression for heavy smokers compared to non-smokers.
Researchers discover single mode of fossilization for soft tissues preserved in Burgess Shale-type deposits, using carbon isotope analysis. Hydrothermal circulation models reveal variations along slow-spreading mid-ocean ridges affect site distribution.
Scientists have discovered a new Pacific iguana species in central Fiji, Brachylophus bulabula, which joins only two other living species. The study found that each of the 13 islands where living iguanas were sampled showed distinct genetic lines not seen elsewhere, highlighting the need for conservation efforts.
A new model predicts long-term survival of critically ill patients based on seven commonly collected clinical variables. Age and co-morbidity have a significant impact on survival rates, with age being the most critical factor.
The University of Queensland's new center, the Pacific Malaria Initiative Support Centre (PacMISC), is part of a global effort to eliminate malaria in low and middle-income countries. PacMISC will focus on Vanuatu and Solomon Islands, providing flexible assistance to national malaria control programs.
A world-first trial has proven that regular physical activity can lead to a lasting improvement in memory function. Older adults who engage in 20 minutes of aerobic exercise daily outperform those who don't, with improved recall of shopping lists and social interactions.
A new study published in Biological Psychiatry found that adding N-acetyl cysteine to usual treatment improved depressive symptoms in individuals with bipolar disorder. The study suggests a potential new treatment option for psychiatric disorders, particularly those involving brain glutathione metabolism.
Research reveals that as cycling participation increases, so do safety levels for both cyclists and motorists. Studies show a one-third drop in crash frequency with increasing cyclist numbers. Experts attribute this effect to changed driver behavior, not improved infrastructure or laws.
The Australian government's tax hike on premixed spirits is unlikely to significantly reduce binge drinking rates. Consumers may switch to unmixed spirits or cheaper beverages, but the impact will be limited due to spirits' small market share.
Researchers have developed a manganese-containing complex that effectively catalyzes the photooxidation of water, a crucial half reaction in the photocatalytic splitting of water. This breakthrough could lead to the creation of a photoelectrochemical cell that produces pure hydrogen and oxygen from water and sunlight.
Researchers found that cane toads are unlikely to thrive in Melbourne, Adelaide, and Hobart due to the region's cool temperatures. However, they expect them to move further south by 2050 under moderate global warming, potentially affecting cities like Sydney and Perth.
CSIRO scientists have developed two new Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) technologies to improve navigation in remote areas. The systems will support personnel safety, traffic management, collision avoidance, and haul truck operation efficiency.
A new approach is required to address the growing issue of child abuse and neglect in Australia, with a focus on preventing abuse before it occurs. The current system's emphasis on intervening after harm has been done is deemed unethical and ineffective.
A large trial found significant improvements in quality of life, sleep and joint pain for post-menopausal women on hormone replacement therapy. Researchers also noted improved sexuality among participants.
A new study by UCL and the University of Melbourne found that Aboriginal children from restricted vocabularies could copy and perform number-related tasks. They were able to recognize and represent numerosities without relying on number words, suggesting an innate system for counting.
A new international study found that Indigenous Australian children who speak languages with few number words can still demonstrate strong numeracy skills based on quantity and spatial concepts. Their skills are equal to those of English-speaking Indigenous children.
A new study from the University of Adelaide found that young people from 10 countries have differing attitudes towards sharing housework and a woman's right to an abortion. Young women are more supportive of domestic democracy, while young men are more likely to want to have their say in abortion decisions.
A recent study predicts a fast rise in scorching days, with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius by the end of this century. Another record reveals a 1000-year history of hurricane activity in Boston, Massachusetts. Climate zones are also shifting southward in Australia due to warming sea surface temperatures.
Scientists have developed a novel method to study the Southern Ocean using elephant seals equipped with oceanographic sensors, providing a 30-fold increase in data recorded under sea ice. This technology complements traditional sampling methods, allowing for better understanding of climate change and its effects on global oceans.
Researchers at CSIRO and the University of Sydney are working to develop new wheat varieties resistant to Ug99, a highly destructive fungus threatening global food security. By identifying multiple resistance gene combinations, they aim to protect wheat from this bio-security threat and ensure food availability for the future.
Research by UK and Australian scientists suggests that humans hunted Tasmania's giant kangaroos and marsupial 'rhinos' and 'leopards' until their extinction, contrary to previous climate change theories. The findings provide the first evidence of human involvement in the mass extinction event, which took place around 41,000 years ago.
A study of quarter of a million patients found epidural anaesthesia to be safe for intermediate to high-risk surgery, but only slightly improving survival rates. The procedure offers better postoperative pain relief and reduces surgical stress response.
A study published in Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health found that affluent mothers living within 200 meters of highways are at a higher risk of delivering low-weight infants (81% increase) and preterm babies (58% increase). The research team evaluated data from Quebec's birth registry over five years.
Researchers are using biofumigation with mustard and other Brassica species to manage soil-borne pests and weeds. This technique can provide economic and social benefits by reducing reliance on synthetic pesticides and promoting environmental health.
No-take marine reserves can help prevent crown-of-thorns starfish outbreaks, reducing their impact on coral cover. The frequency of outbreaks is lower in protected zones, suggesting a potential benefit of fishing bans.
Scientists propose a framework for deciding when and how to intervene in species relocation due to climate change. They suggest bolstering conservation efforts, maintaining species in captivity, or finding new habitats may be inadequate alternatives. The study emphasizes the need to minimize climate change through mitigation.
The CSIRO report 'Fuel for thought' explores the challenges and opportunities in reducing greenhouse gas emissions from the transport sector. It suggests that Australia's fuel mix will include expanded use of diesel, gaseous fuels and hybrid electric vehicles to address economic risks associated with rising oil prices and climate change.
A new drug has been shown to rapidly improve neuropathology and cognitive function in mouse models of Alzheimer's Disease. The treatment, PBT2, targets synaptic metals and has been found to reduce amyloid beta levels and inhibit AD-like neuropathology within hours and days.
Researchers discovered eight genes encoding proteins required for the malaria parasite to hijack and remodel human red blood cells. The proteins play a major role in the development of malaria, which kills millions of people annually. Understanding these proteins may lead to new therapeutic approaches, including drugs or live vaccines.
A major international study found that many South-East Asian hospitals still employ worrying health care practices, including improper use of antibiotics and episiotomies. The study aims to improve maternal and newborn health outcomes by identifying gaps in knowledge and implementing evidence-based interventions.
Researchers are gathering genetic samples from 10,000 people across Australia to investigate the possible genetic causes of cerebral palsy. The study aims to identify specific genetic mutations that may lead to the condition, with the goal of developing potential disease preventions and treatments.
Monash University scientists have initiated a clinical trials program for a footrot vaccine using reverse vaccinology to identify potential antigens. The goal is to develop a cross-protective vaccine that could significantly reduce the financial impact of footrot on the Australian wool and livestock industry.
Gary Banks argues that a more cost-effective health system is necessary to address increasing demand and costs. The Productivity Commission Chairman suggests potential solutions include policy initiatives in various areas of healthcare.
The CSIRO report highlights the importance of building adaptive capacity among farm managers and agri-businesses. It suggests that incremental changes may be sufficient for some regions, while others will need more transformative adaptations.
Dr. Gary Slade has been recognized with the H. Trendley Dean Memorial Award for his distinguished contributions to research in behavioral science, epidemiology, and public health. His work has focused on population oral health surveillance and the impact of oral conditions on quality of life.
A new study reveals that no-take marine reserves can lead to rapid comebacks of exploited fish species, with coral trout populations increasing by up to 68% in just two years. The findings provide an encouraging message for biodiversity protection and have positive implications for tourism.
Overcrowding and understaffing in hospitals exacerbate MRSA control issues, leading to increased hospital stays and bed blocking. Effective infection control measures can help mitigate the problem, but addressing overcrowding and workforce shortages is crucial for improving patient safety and quality of care.
Researchers have identified natural gold nanoparticles in Western Australia's groundwater, providing new insights into geological processes and potential gold deposits. The discovery could aid explorers in finding new gold deposits due to the unique properties of these nanoparticles.
Recent research published in July 2008 Geology and GSA Today sheds new light on geological phenomena around the world. The study of ghostly lithospheres past reveals insights into southern Africa's volcanic rocks and Scotland's ancient sandstones, while another paper explores Wyoming's badlands and their ancient mammal fossils.
New Australian research found ocean warming rates are 50% faster than previously reported, providing greater credibility to climate models. The study also improves estimates of sea-level rise and its contributions from glaciers, ice caps, and thermal expansion in the deep ocean.
The Australian Dementia Research report recommends increasing funding for dementia research three-fold to $36 million to keep pace with rising treatment and care costs. By 2030, dementia's projected healthcare cost is expected to reach $8.2 billion, with the number of people with dementia set to double to over 460,000.
A study found that depression and antidepressants significantly increase the risk of falls among older people. SSRIs were associated with a 66% higher risk of falls. Effective prevention programs include home assessments and modifications to reduce hazards. Family members must be involved in fall prevention strategies.
Researchers are developing unique brain maps using microscopic imaging to enhance accuracy of brain surgery and disease diagnosis. The new technology will revolutionize the field by providing detailed views of individual brains.
A team of scientists found that lizards running on two legs is due to their acceleration, which creates a turning force acting on the lizard's torso, lifting it off the ground. The researchers suggest that 'pulling a wheelie' is the most likely explanation for the lizards' bipedalism.
Research reveals inaccurate or incomplete information about CAM in Australian media, highlighting the need for clearer communication between scientists and journalists. The study's findings emphasize the importance of accurate, unbiased, and complete health news reports to influence public behavior.
Researchers found that media reports on complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) were often inaccurate or incomplete, lacking information on side-effects and costs. The study suggests clearer communication between scientists and journalists is crucial for accurate news reports.
A global mission to address iron deficiency is underway with a focus on increasing iron content in cereal grains like rice and wheat. Dr Alex Johnson's project aims to improve iron delivery from leaves to seeds, benefiting developing countries where iron deficiency affects 30% of the world's population.
Trachoma causes blindness in 84 million people worldwide, but progress has been made since 1995 with a decline from 15% to 4% of global blindness. The SAFE strategy's success is attributed to improved socioeconomic conditions and widespread implementation.
Researchers found that high-energy electrons are lost by the inner radiation belt during VLF transmitter periods, suggesting human systems can control radiation belt dynamics. Additionally, enhanced mixing within Southern Ocean fronts influences global ocean circulation and climate.
Researchers examine the impact of disease mongering on public discourse and its implications for healthcare policy. They argue that lax regulations risk exacerbating the problem, wasting valuable resources.
Indigenous Australians are more likely to have preventable cancers, such as lung and liver cancer, with poorer prognosis and late diagnosis. Improving tobacco control and health services is crucial to reducing cancer burden.
A plague of kangaroos is overgrazing Canberra's natural grasslands, leading to dramatic consequences for other species. The eastern grey kangaroo's population has multiplied so much that it now outnumbers the city's inhabitants, threatening the survival of rare species like the golden sun moth and grassland earless dragon.
Researchers have successfully inserted DNA from the extinct Tasmanian tiger into mouse embryos, demonstrating a functional response in developing cartilage and bone. This breakthrough has significant implications for the development of new biomedicines and gaining insights into the biology of extinct animals.
A new analysis combining decades of data from all continents shows that human-caused warming is changing life on a global scale. The study found that physical and biological systems are being affected, including changes in tree leafing, bird migrations, and ocean plankton and fish communities.