Industry News
Genetic cause found for rare neurological disease
The progressive neurological disease known as spinocerebellar ataxia 4 (SCA4) is a rare movement disorder with no known cure and, until recently, no known cause. [ + ]
Biofortified rice to combat vitamin B1 deficiency
New research has focused on improving vitamin B1 content in the endosperm of rice — the nourishing tissue that makes up the bulk of the seed. [ + ]
Creating self-assembling capsules for drug delivery
Scientists have created nanosized capsules that could be used to deliver drugs and messenger RNA (mRNA), a molecule that instructs cells to produce proteins. [ + ]
Higher levels of CO2 increase lifespan of airborne SARS-CoV-2
Carbon dioxide is a major factor in prolonging the life of SARS-CoV-2 variants present in tiny droplets circulating in the atmosphere, according to a new study. [ + ]
Govt announces $1.89bn package for health and medical research
The Australian Government is investing in a "once-in-a-generation transformation of health and medical research", according to Minister for Health and Aged Care Mark Butler. [ + ]
Simulated microgravity affects sleep, physiological rhythms
The simulated effects of microgravity significantly affect rhythmicity and sleep in humans, which could negatively affect the physiology and performance of astronauts in space. [ + ]
Hybrid insulin pumps work well for type 1 diabetes
Advanced hybrid closed loop (AHCL) insulin pumps are designed to constantly measure blood sugar levels, using specific algorithms to dose insulin and automatically keep blood sugar levels in check. [ + ]
3D-printed films provide targeted liver cancer treatment
Researchers have created drug-loaded, 3D-printed films that kill more than 80% of liver cancer cells while minimising the systematic toxicities of traditional chemotherapy. [ + ]
Ultracold lab fridge modified for faster, more efficient cooling
By modifying a refrigerator commonly used in both research and industry, researchers have reduced the time and energy required to cool materials to within a few degrees above absolute zero. [ + ]
Raman spectroscopy used to detect illegal ivory
A quick and reliable method for distinguishing between elephant and mammoth ivory has long been a goal, as current methods are time-consuming and expensive. [ + ]
Forensic breakthrough: drugs detected on gel-lifted fingerprints
The breakthrough could shed new light on unsolved crimes, as forensic gel lifters are used globally to preserve and visualise fingerprints found at crime scenes. [ + ]
Using your brain at work may ward off cognitive impairment
The harder your brain works at your job, the less likely you may be to have memory and thinking problems later in life. [ + ]
Repurposed drugs show promise in heart muscle regeneration
The FDA-approved medications, when given in combination, target two proteins that regulate the heart muscle's regeneration capabilities. [ + ]
Accreditation Matters announces further speakers, MC
Respected journalist and presenter Steve Liebmann has been confirmed as host and MC for the Accreditation Matters conference, coming to ICC Sydney in June. [ + ]
A pre-emptive approach to treating leukaemia relapse
The monitoring of measurable residual disease (MRD), medication and low-dose chemotherapy is helping patients live longer with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). [ + ]

