Science and research news from Australia. Covers Indigenous language teaching, menopause information, conservation, and open-access agreements.
The astronomy industry has a long way to go before achieving gender parity, with women making up less than one-third of professional astronomers by 2080. Implementing 50:50 hiring ratios and retention initiatives, such as exit surveys and work-life balance improvements, can help reach the goal of 30% female representation in a decade.
Researchers use genetic analysis to determine tarantulas' ancient ancestry, tracing them to the Americas around 120 million years ago during the Cretaceous period. They found that these spiders were not limited to sedentary burrows, but also exploited ecological niches and displayed surprising dispersal capabilities.
A single footprint from a tiny cat-sized stegosaur has been discovered in China, revealing characteristics similar to other stegosaur footprints but with a heel-lifted gait. The finding suggests that young stegosaurs may have walked on two legs or used a 'toe-walking' posture.
A new study found that patients who are overweight or obese have more severe COVID-19 and require invasive respiratory support. Obesity is associated with increased risk of cardiometabolic and respiratory disease and more severe viral diseases.
Research found that ABC transporters in plants can confer glyphosate resistance by moving the herbicide out of cells. This is achieved through the EcABCC8 transporter, which was shown to exhibit higher expression levels in resistant weed species.
Archaeological research at Ga-Mohana Hill rockshelter reveals a history of spiritual significance dating back to 105,000 years ago. The discovery of deliberately collected white calcite crystals and ostrich eggshell fragments indicates cultural use of the shelter linked to spiritual beliefs and ritual.
A machine learning study of rock art in Arnhem Land, Australia, has reconstructed the chronology of artistic styles using over 14 million images. The analysis revealed a link between style similarity and time, showing that styles closer in age were also more similar in appearance.
The deployment of personal electronic deterrents is an effective way to prevent future deaths and injuries from shark bites. The technology has been shown to reduce the likelihood of a bite by about 60%, potentially saving hundreds of lives.
A team of Australian and German researchers found that GABA, a molecule associated with relaxation in animals, can control the size of plant leaves' pores to minimize water loss. This helps plants conserve water and survive longer during droughts.
The new PRISMA 2020 guideline provides a 27-item reporting checklist to ensure transparent, complete, and accurate accounts of systematic reviews. This updated version aims to combat incompletely reported reviews that lead to low-value healthcare.
The new guidelines aim to address growing concerns of children's sedentary behaviour and promote energetic play while limiting screen use. The guidelines recommend a 3:1 ratio of exercise to sedentary time and suggest that OSHC centres should schedule at least 2-3 hours of physical activities per day.
A study analyzing genomic data from South American populations reveals an extensive Australasian genetic signal, previously thought to be confined to Amazonian groups. The findings suggest at least two migratory waves accounted for the present-day genetic diversity of Central and South American populations.
Researchers at Flinders University in Australia have found a link between normal-tension glaucoma and cognitive impairment, with patients having this type of glaucoma being more than twice as likely to develop dementia. The study suggests that normal-tension glaucoma may share similar neurodegenerative pathways with dementia.
A global review of hail trends suggests climate change will lead to increased hailstorm frequency in most regions, particularly Australia, while reducing it in East Asia and North America. Hail severity is expected to increase globally due to warmer temperatures and increased atmospheric instability.
A new study shows that almost all wild canines in Australia are genetically more than half dingo, highlighting the need to reevaluate lethal measures and terminology. Dingo-dog hybrids make up only a small percentage of the population.
ECU researchers found that two thirds of participants gave up on their New Year resolutions within the first month. Setting specific resolutions with time, place and/or people is key to sticking to them, according to Professor Joanne Dickson. Flexibility in adapting to changing situations also predicts increased mental wellbeing.
A recent study published in PLOS ONE reveals a positive correlation between higher education levels and greater well-being among Australian women. The research found that educated women tend to have better mental health, engage in healthier behaviors, and have more social connections.
Researchers used pumice from an underwater volcanic eruption to determine the cause of a mass death of migrating seabirds. The study found that birds were starving and eating non-food materials like pumice stones due to lack of food, indicating broader health issues for the marine ecosystem.
The REMi system, featuring innovative sensor tech developed by RMIT University, has been launched to deliver real-time and non-invasive resident monitoring and alerts. It enables the aged care workforce to non-intrusively monitor residents during the night and receive alerts at critical moments.
Researchers examine brain structures of extinct giant birds, finding similarities with modern chickens and ducks. The analysis reveals that these ancient birds had well-developed stereoscopic vision and a diet of soft leaves and fruit.
A recent study by RMIT University found that female employees are less likely to receive one-on-one mentoring from male managers, with only 38% of young females reporting a change in their interactions with males since the #MeToo movement. Despite this, many senior male co-workers are willing to mentor younger women.
Australian wildfires injected massive amounts of smoke into the stratosphere, causing record-breaking levels of atmospheric aerosols in the Southern Hemisphere. The effect was comparable to that of a moderate volcanic eruption and caused significant cooling over cloud-free ocean regions.
An Australian-Italian team used the Murchison Widefield Array telescope to observe a cluster of galaxies in Abell 2877. The team discovered a radio 'jellyfish' structure with a steep spectrum that challenges current understanding. The discovery was made possible by the unique low-frequency capabilities of the MWA.
A rare bone point, dated between 5,300-3,800 years old, has been discovered near the Lower Murray River, providing insights into Ngarrindjeri country's material culture. The artefact, likely made from a macropod bone, was found during excavation work and is believed to have been used for piercing soft materials or as a projectile point.
The critically endangered regent honeyeater is losing its 'song culture' due to declining populations. Research found that males sing simplified or incorrect songs when birds are rare, affecting their ability to communicate with females.
Researchers discovered three new FRBs with high dispersion measure from the Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical radio Telescope (FAST), indicating they happened billions of years ago. The findings suggest there could be as many as 120,000 detectable FRBs arriving on Earth every day.
A recent study found that women artists are underrepresented in the art market, with 42 male artists occupying the top 0.03% of sales value. Despite commanding higher average prices, women artists face significant barriers to entry, including discrimination and lower visibility.
Researchers have identified wild relatives of chickpea as a natural source of resistance to Ascochyta blight, a devastating disease that can cause up to 100% yield loss. These wild plants, including Cicer reticulatum and Cicer echinospermum, have been found to be resistant to the disease.
A new recycling method for carbon fibre composites has been developed by researchers from the University of Sydney, maintaining 90% of their original strength. The process uses a two-phase approach, including pyrolysis and oxidation, to preserve the functionality of carbon fibres.
A genomic study of over 500 common dolphins across 1,500 sq km reveals complex population structure and connectivity across state and international jurisdictions. The research emphasizes the importance of inter-jurisdictional collaboration to mitigate fisheries interactions and protect dolphin populations.
A team of astronomers and astrophysicists detected and localized a fast radio burst using the Australian Square Kilometre Array Pathfinder, providing vital information on its origins. The detection was part of an international effort that improved understanding of fast radio bursts in distant galaxies.
AusStage, a digital humanities platform preserving Australian live performance history, has been awarded a UNESCO Memory of the World accolade. The recognition highlights the importance of preserving artistic activity and its impact on understanding Australia's cultural heritage.
A recent study from the University of South Australia highlights the need for a shift away from disposable coffee cups due to their significant impact on landfill waste. The research emphasizes the importance of education, awareness, and infrastructure development to drive sustainable change.
A rare Australian native bee species, Pharohylaeus lactiferus, has been found again after 100 years, with only six individuals previously recorded. The discovery highlights the species' vulnerability to habitat destruction and wildfires in Australia's rainforests.
Researchers discover that male lyrebirds use mimicry to recreate the panicked alarm calls of a mixed-species flock during courtship and mating. This 'acoustic illusion' may be a crucial sexual behavior for males, helping them gain reproductive advantage by tricking females into responding as if they're at risk from a predator.
Researchers propose new approach to planning in high fire risk areas, incorporating green technology infrastructure and Indigenous fire techniques. The study emphasizes the urgent need for strong leadership and collaboration to address climate change and transition to a renewable future.
Researchers have identified a two-metre-long kangaroo painting in Western Australia's Kimberley region as Australia's oldest known in-situ painting, dated to 17,500-17,100 years ago. The discovery provides insight into the lives of ancient artists and the environment during the Last Ice Age.
The study found the Netherlands recorded the highest usage of NPS, followed by Australia, New Zealand, and the US. Meanwhile, Spain, Italy, and China had the lowest incidence. Countries with higher usage included Australia, New Zealand, and the US, where substances like N-ethylpentylone were detected.
A genetic study found that heavy coffee consumption can increase lipid levels in the blood, heightening cardiovascular disease risk. Unfiltered brews like long blacks, espressos, and lattes contain a cholesterol-elevating compound called cafestol.
A study reveals that women undergoing breast cancer surgery often feel left out of the decision-making process for reconstructive surgery, with surgeons having more say than patients. The research found that approximately one in three women believed their surgeon made decisions on their behalf.
A new international study suggests that the reversal of Earth's magnetic poles 42,000 years ago triggered major climate shifts, leading to global environmental change and mass extinctions. Researchers used ancient New Zealand kauri trees to create a detailed timescale of how Earth's atmosphere changed over this time.
A new study reveals a unique link between the diet and distribution of coral reef fishes, highlighting planktivores as potentially vulnerable to environmental change. The Indo-Australian Archipelago is a global marine biodiversity hotspot, where planktivorous fish species are more diverse than others.
A large-scale study found that innovative companies experienced 1.95% higher yearly growth in profitability compared to non-innovative firms. The study highlights the significant financial benefits of innovation for companies, supporting job creation and economic growth.
A team of researchers from Flinders University and the South Australian Museum discovered a new species of skink, Proegernia mikebulli, in the Namba Formation deposits. The fossil, named after Professor Mike Bull, is Australia's oldest known lizard, dating back to 25 million years ago.
A 270,000-year-old core from a Tasmanian lake provides the first Australian record of a geomagnetic excursion, where the Earth's magnetic field 'switched' and spectacular auroras were observed. This discovery has significant implications for understanding past climate change and developing new paleomagnetic dating tools.
Researchers found that early antiviral treatment reduces 30-day readmissions and length of hospital stay. Troponin studies identify patients at higher risk of mortality due to underlying cardiovascular disease issues.
Researchers successfully localized a non-repeating fast radio burst (FRB) using a novel processing system and supercomputer. The breakthrough identified the source location as a galaxy about 3.6 billion light-years away, providing valuable insights into FRBs and their possible causes.
A new study by the City University of Hong Kong found that desexing cats before 4 months old can significantly reduce the number of unwanted kittens. The research analyzed data from over 52,000 cats and found that only 21.5% of female cats were desexed at four months or younger.
A unique peptide found in Australian finger lime has been shown to destroy the deadly bacterium causing citrus greening and activate the plant's immune system to prevent new infections. The treatment is safer for the environment than current methods, using a stable anti-microbial compound that remains effective even in high heat.
A student astronomer has developed a method to track down the Milky Way's missing matter using distant galaxies as 'locator pins'. The technique detects radio sources that have passed through a cold clump of gas, revealing a massive, invisible cloud about 10 light years from Earth.
A new study found that people with BPD are becoming more knowledgeable about the disorder and available treatments, but may still face significant challenges in finding appropriate help. Experts highlight the need for improved services, including public subsidies for specialized services and increased training for health professionals.
The study found that bats accounted for the greatest proportion of strikes in Australia, while rabbits and dog-like carnivores dominated Canada, Germany, and the UK. Average mammal strikes per year ranged from 1.2 to 38.7 across countries, with estimated annual costs exceeding $100 million.
Researchers at the ARC Centre of Excellence for Translational Photosynthesis are developing crop plants with improved photosynthesis, aiming to increase Australian cereal crop production and address climate change. The center has identified promising germplasm lines and published over 300 scientific papers on the topic.
The SAMI survey has revealed the internal structures of galaxies, showing how they interact and grow over time. The study provides insights into the forces that shape galaxy evolution, including the role of supermassive black holes.
The new guidelines cover patient triage, imaging, observation versus admission, transfer, discharge and follow-up to help clinicians diagnose and treat children's head injuries. They aim to reduce unnecessary exposure to radiation from CT scans while ruling out bleeding disorders.
A recent meta-analysis published in Anaesthesia found that COVID-19 intensive care mortality has continued to decline since the start of the pandemic, with a relative decrease of around one third from March to May 2020. However, the pace of progress has slowed substantially, with improvements plateauing between June and October 2020.
Researchers at the University of Sydney and Microsoft have created a single chip that can generate control signals for thousands of qubits, revolutionizing quantum computing. This breakthrough resolves a key limitation to scaling up quantum machines, paving the way for more powerful computers.
The study found strong appreciation of natural features in Adelaide's northern metropolitan coastal wetlands, rating them highly for personal wellbeing. Residents developed an attachment to the coastline through activities, valuing these places as they became familiar with them.
Research from the University of South Australia links sports participation with improved numeracy skills in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. Over four years, children who played organised sports had advanced numeracy skills compared to those who did less sport.
Scientists have achieved a record-breaking transmission of a laser signal through the atmosphere, eliminating turbulence. This breakthrough enables precise time comparisons and has exciting applications in fundamental physics research, including testing Einstein's theory of general relativity.