Science and research news from Australia. Covers Indigenous language teaching, menopause information, conservation, and open-access agreements.
Children using trampoline centers are at a higher risk of serious injuries and hospital admissions compared to those using trampolines at home. Mandatory safety standards for trampoline centers are urgently required, highlighting the need for public awareness and evidence-based safety measures.
The Flinders-designed QOL-ACC tool assesses six key quality of life dimensions and has been implemented with over 1000 older Australians, delivering improved standards and transparency in aged care. The results show that the tool performed strongly in a pilot trial, with lower scores for those with poorer self-reported health status.
Researchers have created a new electrical test to screen hundreds of gene mutations, pinpointing harmful mutations that cause inherited heart disorders and sudden death. The breakthrough can identify genetic variants associated with neurological conditions, muscle and kidney diseases.
The study found increases in screen time, alcohol use, and poor sleep among Australian girls during the pandemic. However, overall sleep improved, and some dietary choices improved during lockdown.
A new study from the University of South Australia found that dispositional mindfulness can significantly reduce and protect elite athletes from stress. Athletes who demonstrated greater mindfulness had lower levels of stress, both immediately after a COVID-19-related shutdown and at the end of their competitive season.
Academics argue AI systems like DABUS need new IP laws as existing ones are inadequate to deal with cases where machines are named sole inventors. The authors recommend introducing a new 'AI-IP' form of law that would be specifically tailored to AI-generated inventiveness, addressing ownership and novelty issues.
A team of Australian scientists has analyzed rare earth elements in drilled reef cores to unveil a deep history of wild weather on the Great Barrier Reef. The study reveals that extreme runoff from intense monsoons affected water quality over 8,000 years ago, leading to reduced coral growth and reef decline.
A team of scientists has confirmed that the earliest humans in Australia consumed eggs from a two-metre tall bird called Genyornis, which became extinct 47,000 years ago. The ancient proteins found in eggshell fragments provide conclusive evidence for this species.
A team of researchers has identified the ancient bird species behind giant prehistoric eggs in Australia, resolving a years-long debate. The study found that the eggs belonged to a unique duck-like line of megafauna known as the 'Demon Ducks of Doom', which was laid by the Genyornis newtoni bird.
A study led by Flinders University reveals that Australia's Letter-winged kite may not have enhanced vision for nighttime hunting as previously thought. The research found similar eye dimensions to its daytime-hunting relatives, contradicting decades of speculation about the kite's visual system.
The Australian General Practice Respiratory Clinic program effectively scaled up in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, providing rapid infection control measures and anonymized patient data for surveillance reports. By September 2020, 150 clinics had opened across the country, demonstrating their integration with other health services.
Australian secondary students' math rankings have dropped to 29th place globally, with a new study suggesting hand gestures are crucial for understanding mathematical concepts. Online learning has exacerbated the issue, making it harder for students to grasp math concepts without human motor and sensory skills.
A team led by Flinders University archaeologist Dr Martin Polkinghorne is reuniting ancient ceramics with their ships of origin, developing a narrative of ancient global trade. The research project will also promote cultural value and awareness among communities in Indonesia and Australia.
Researchers are developing a novel MRI nanotechnology that targets specific markers in solid tumours, including high-grade brain cancers. The new imaging technology has shown promising preclinical results and is set to be tested in a first-in-human clinical trial.
A team of international researchers has identified a genetic driver that improves yield traits in wheat while increasing protein content by up to 25 per cent. This discovery has the potential to generate new wheat varieties with higher quality grain.
Researchers found that extinct species had smaller brains than surviving ones, suggesting a link between brain size and adaptability. The study suggests that larger brains helped extant species cope with human activities and climate change.
A study of historical tiger shark jaws reveals a local southeastern Australian population has been extirpated due to shark control programs, emphasizing the need for regional management and conservation. Genetic diversity drives future evolution, and its loss can lead to reduced adaptability to environmental changes.
New research suggests that stricter pandemic policy measures are associated with poorer mental health outcomes and lower life evaluations. Eliminator countries experienced fewer deaths and better mental health trends compared to mitigator countries.
Outpatient antibiotic prescribing in Australia decreased significantly during the pandemic, with a 38% drop in winter 2020 compared to pre-pandemic years. The reduction was predominantly due to decreases in GP prescribing and targeted public education efforts.
Research by University of South Australia found that knowing the 'right' people is crucial for securing a job, while African migrants often struggle due to systemic discrimination and racism. The study highlights the importance of anti-racism work and social networks in migrant labor market integration.
A new study published in Drug and Alcohol Review found that binaural beats are being used as digital drugs by over 30,000 people worldwide, with users primarily seeking relaxation and mood change. The survey also revealed that binaural beat listeners are more likely to be younger and report recent use of prohibited drugs.
The study uncovers lost bioscapes with high floric and arthropod diversity coincident with 12th century Polynesian settlement in Nuku Hiva, Marquesas Islands. Archaeological excavations provide evidence of a rich ecosystem upon arrival.
A recent study by Edith Cowan University highlights the lack of information available to women with a breech presenting baby. Women often feel pressured into having a caesarean section without being fully informed of all options, including vaginal birth and alternative techniques such as moxibustion.
Adults conceived via IVF show improved social relationships and environment quality of life, according to a new study. The research also found associations between positive psychosocial factors, such as family financial situation and relationship with parents, on adult quality of life.
Scientists developed a natural antibacterial texture inspired by insect wings, killing up to 70% of bacteria. The innovation aims to reduce food waste, particularly in meat and dairy exports, and extend the shelf life of packaged food.
A new video tool aims to help mothers understand that stillbirth is not their fault by explaining the aging process of the placenta. The research identifies that unexplained stillbirth is often due to 'aging of the placenta,' which is complex and not affected by the mother's behavior.
Researchers have discovered a chemical record of humpback whales' dietary habits stored in their baleen, which can help understand how these large aquatic mammals may react to future climate events. The study found that changes in the whales' feeding patterns correspond with changing climate cycles.
A study reveals that new bird species arise in lowland habitats before moving higher into mountainous areas, where genetic differences accumulate. The research suggests that climate fluctuations, particularly during the Pleistocene era, contributed to the evolution of these high-altitude populations.
Research published in Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology shows a decline in cerebral palsy rates among Australian babies, with the largest decrease seen in premature births. The study found a 32% reduction in prevalence over two decades.
A Tel Aviv University study found that investors who switched to a social fund reduced their donations to charities, mainly in similar causes. However, most investors in the social fund had not previously donated, suggesting that social funds entice more people to fund social causes.
A study from University of South Australia found that reading aloud to children can triple a child's resilience at school, particularly for those who have suffered abuse or neglect. The study identified reading as a key factor in supporting children's emotional, social and physical development before they start school.
Researchers tracked a Mongolian gazelle traveling over 18,000 km, while new studies on raccoon movement inform improved vaccination strategies against wildlife disease. In contrast, urban bird species exhibit varying body weights and lifespans based on city characteristics.
A new study found that serious allergic reactions to food among children have flattened since changes to Australian infant feeding guidelines. The research showed a slowing rate of increase in hospital admissions for food anaphylaxis among young children and teenagers, but overall rates remain high. Experts emphasize the need for effec...
A new study found that Australian bushfires are linked to British colonisation and climate change, with forests becoming denser and more flammable due to the increase in woody biomass. Indigenous burning practices ceased after colonial settlement, leading to an increase in shrub cover and unprecedented wildfires.
Researchers at UTS have designed a molecule to tackle issues with lithium-oxygen batteries, increasing discharge capacity and efficiency. The breakthrough paves the way for long-life, energy-dense batteries capable of matching petrol-fuelled cars' driving ranges.
Research published in Communications Earth and Environment reveals insights into explosive submarine eruptions, challenging existing depth limits. Pink pumice found in the Havre 2012 eruption indicates a powerful jet and shielded core, capable of producing an explosive column.
A new research paper from the University of South Australia reveals that older generations hold a significant portion of housing properties, locking out younger Millennials. The study highlights how government policies designed to protect one generation can hinder another, creating severe housing tenure inequalities.
Researchers have developed a method to detect tiny plastic scraps on remote beaches using satellite technology. This innovation enables the tracking of plastics within satellite images, allowing for more frequent and reliable observations.
A new global dataset reveals approximately 73,000 tree species, highlighting the vulnerability of global forest biodiversity to climate change and land use. The research, led by Professor Andy Marshall, also identifies a 'hot spot' of likely undiscovered species in northeast Australia and the Pacific Islands.
Killer whales have been observed hunting and killing blue whales, with three documented events in Australian waters. The attacks were coordinated and resulted in the whale's flesh being stripped off, highlighting the apex predator's influence on marine environments.
Researchers discovered adaptations allowing desert fish to thrive in harsh conditions by maintaining genetic diversity and adapting genes for aridity. This finding challenges the idea that small populations are evolutionary dead ends.
A team of scientists from Germany, Spain, Australia and Japan discovered a new species of branching marine worm, Ramisyllis kingghidorahi, in Japan. The worm has a unique body shape with one head and multiple posterior ends, living inside the internal canals of sea sponges.
A disturbing trend of increasing young-onset gastrointestinal adenocarcinomas has been observed in South Australia over the past three decades, with a significant increase in incidence rates among males aged under 50. Improved survival rates for older adults have not been seen in younger patients, except for those with colorectal cancer.
A large clinical trial involving over 5,000 patients found that commonly used saline solution is as effective at keeping people alive and their organs functioning as more expensive balanced solutions. The study's results provide greater certainty about the safety and benefits of saline solution for treatment.
A University of South Australia study suggests that nature-based citizen science projects can alleviate stress and isolation, while improving mental, emotional, and physical health benefits. By engaging with natural environments, individuals can experience lower stress levels, improve their wellbeing, and feel connected to a community.
The regent honeyeater's population is on track to decline to fewer than 300 individuals due to habitat loss and predation. To save the species, conservation efforts must focus on protecting nests from predators, increasing zoo-bred bird releases into the wild, and preserving and restoring habitats.
A global study found that death rates for people with type 2 diabetes are declining in high-income countries, including Asia. The study showed a narrowing life expectancy gap between those with and without diabetes in many jurisdictions.
A mixed-methods survey found that pain science education helped people recover from chronic pain by understanding it was not tissue damage and that stress and emotion could heighten perceptions. The study also identified seven learning objectives to help teenagers better understand pain, including reframing perceptions of pain as an 'o...
Astronomers captured the most comprehensive image of radio emission from a supermassive black hole in the Centaurus A galaxy, powered by in-falling gas. The eruption extends eight degrees across the sky, spanning 16 full moons, and reveals spectacular new details of the radio emission.
A new species of millipede with 1,306 legs has been discovered in Australia's Eastern Goldfields Province. The creature, named Eumillipes persephone, is the first recorded to have more than 750 legs.
Researchers found alarmingly high attendance rates at hospital emergency departments for children, teens, and adult victims of child abuse and neglect. Children exposed to child maltreatment have substantially increased risk of attending emergency departments during childhood and early adulthood.
New research from UniSA finds that confusion, lack of knowledge and disinterest are hindering businesses' progress in addressing modern slavery. The study provides a framework to help companies improve their approaches, but warns that without effective measures, global efforts to stop modern slavery will be unlikely to succeed.
A new study from Australian Institute of Marine Science reveals that reef fish such as emperors, tropical snappers, and rockcods play a crucial role in controlling crown-of-thorns starfish numbers on the Great Barrier Reef. By removing these fish species, the abundance of coral-eating starfish increases.
A study by University of New South Wales has found that one in five future thyroid cancers in Australia is attributable to current levels of overweight and obesity. The prevalence of obesity has doubled in the last two decades, with 75% of Australian men and 60% of women being overweight or obese.
New Edith Cowan University research reveals Afghan refugees value Australia's security, but face barriers to employment, discrimination, and socio-religious challenges. Many struggle with job recognition, workplace discrimination, and cultural identity issues, affecting their integration into Australian society.
Researchers found that topical ivermectin treatment is highly effective against hookworm infection in Australian sea lion pups, with a success rate of 96.4 percent. Early treatment before disease development significantly improves overall survival rates.
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 from the University of Copenhagen have discovered a natural substance, a flavonoid, that can inhibit cancer cells' ability to defend themselves against chemotherapy by targeting efflux pumps. This could lead to more effective treatment and potentially even combat antibiotic resistance.
Atmospheric rivers are predicted to drastically alter Australia's alpine wilderness due to climate change. The phenomenon, characterized by long, narrow regions of high moisture content, is expected to increase extreme and frequent events, leading to severe flash flooding and rapid snowmelt.
A University of Adelaide study reveals that over 35% of fish caught off southern Australia contain microplastics, with the problem being most acute in South Australia. Simple actions like replacing plastic fishing equipment and using biodegradable bags can quickly reduce plastic pollution in the ocean.