Science and research news from Australia. Covers Indigenous language teaching, menopause information, conservation, and open-access agreements.
A new measurement of the Hubble constant has been made, providing an accurate calculation of how fast the universe is expanding. The method uses data from a survey of over 125,000 galaxies, allowing for precise determination of the universe's growth rate.
Researchers found that 22 non-native species in Chile pose a high risk to Argentina, with yellow glandweed being the most dangerous. The study highlights the need for cooperation between neighboring countries to counter invasive plant species and prevent severe damage to agriculture.
Misdiagnosis of spider bites is delaying appropriate treatment for common conditions, such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Lyme disease. The use of antivenom is also putting patients at risk due to a lack of well-conducted research and conflicting animal study results.
The SKA radio telescope has successfully linked its antennas over long distances using an optical fibre network, a key step towards observing distant galaxies in greater detail. The experiment saw six telescopes working together to observe a quasar 7.5 billion light-years away, revealing new insights into the universe.
This article covers various geological topics from August 2011, including microbial activity in banded-iron formations, the San Andreas fault system's deformation patterns, and earthquake hazards. Researchers also investigated porosity redistribution in crystal-rich magmas and boundaries conditions on laboratory models of simple shear.
Decreasing autumn and winter rainfall over southern Australia is attributed to a 50-year decrease in storm intensity. The trend is linked to reductions in the strength of the mid-latitude jet stream and changes in atmospheric temperatures.
Researchers confirm that volcanoes in Western Victoria and South Australia are due for an eruption, with a recurrence rate of 2,000 years.
A recent study found that gum disease can increase the time it takes for women to conceive, with non-Caucasian women facing a greater risk. The study, which followed over 3,700 pregnant women, revealed that those with gum disease took an average of seven months to become pregnant, compared to five months for those without gum disease.
Researchers from the ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies and the Australian Genome Research Facility have sequenced the genome of the staghorn coral, a major threat to the Great Barrier Reef. The study provides insights into coral biology, including responses to climate change and ocean acidification.
Researchers developed an affordable antivenom against the Papuan taipan, a lethal snake, to address chronic shortages in developing countries. The project demonstrates the potential of international cooperation in producing high-quality antivenoms at an affordable price.
The Puyehue-Cordón volcano in Chile continues to spew ash, affecting air travel in Australia, New Zealand, and other countries. The GOES Project's satellite imagery shows the steady stream of ash three weeks after the initial eruption.
Fossils discovered on Kangaroo Island, Australia, reveal that early animals had excellent vision, with compound eyes containing over 3000 lenses. This suggests a rapid evolution of visual organs due to the adaptive advantage of sharp vision for hunting and finding food.
Two studies highlight the relationship between neotectonic activity and rockslide failures, with a third investigation into salinity control on parasequence development in ancient carbonate platforms. Researchers found that rock fracturing due to neotectonic activity is a major conditioning factor for failures, while changes in coastal...
A national survey found that 1 in 20 Australian workers use alcohol or drugs while on the job. The most commonly used workplace drug was alcohol, followed by painkillers and amphetamines. Despite this, many workers underestimate the negative impact of substance use on workplace safety.
A new study shows that southern right whales from remote sub-Antarctic islands have found their way back to New Zealand's mainland, indicating a potential return of this endangered species. The whales' strong 'maternal fidelity' helped them remember ancestral calving grounds, enabling them to migrate and breed in their former habitat.
Scientists studied contrail effects on climate, finding a small positive contribution from line-shaped contrails. Researchers also investigated Aboriginal forest burning's influence on the Australian summer monsoon, discovering it altered local climate and extended dry season.
Researchers at Queensland University of Technology (QUT) are working on non-chemical based ways to fight fruit flies, including lure and kill techniques using ginger essence. The team aims to develop sustainable pest management options to replace restricted insecticides dimethoate and fenthion.
An international study of 11,910 patients from 7 countries found that poorly coordinated care and cost-related barriers significantly increased the risk of medication and medical errors. Poorly co-ordinated care was associated with a 110% to 200% increase in errors, while cost-related barriers increased the risk by 50% to 160%.
Researchers use computerized 3-D models to estimate plant yield based on measurable attributes, enabling rapid and accurate prediction of large numbers of plants' potential yields. The project aims to improve Australian agriculture's efficiency and competitiveness by producing more food for a growing population.
New guidelines for social media use in healthcare emphasize education over prescriptive advice. Researchers explore the potential benefits of social networking in breaking down barriers to reform, as seen in a Taiwan case study where the Minister of Health engaged with stakeholders through Facebook.
A study from Australia found a significant decrease in high-grade cervical abnormalities in girls aged 17 and younger following the introduction of an HPV vaccination programme. The incidence of high-grade abnormalities fell by 0.38% as compared to before the programme, with no decline seen for low-grade abnormalities or older age groups.
The NASA Goddard FLICKR image gallery showcases a massive ash plume from the Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcano in Chile, tracked by multiple satellites over six days. The plume was seen circling the southern hemisphere, affecting air travel and rainfall, with ash falling as far away as Australia.
The study highlights the potential health risks associated with migration interception practices, including immigration detention and visa restrictions. Health professionals must engage in discussions about migration and humanitarian protection to consider the broader impact on health and welfare.
Australian scientists have identified a new type of NKT cell that can specifically target lipids found in bacterial cell walls, offering hope for novel vaccine development. The discovery provides insight into the immune system's unique function and its potential to combat various diseases.
A new study published by The Endocrine Society finds that testosterone levels do not decline with age in healthy older men. In fact, serum testosterone levels remained stable across the board, indicating that age is not a contributing factor to declining testosterone levels.
Researchers mapped anemia risk in preschool-age children in Burkina Faso, Ghana, and Mali using national cross-sectional surveys. The maps indicate the geographical risk profile of anemia, allowing for targeted control measures such as nutrient supplements and fortified foods.
Researchers are advancing positron emission tomography (PET) as an effective method of early detection for Alzheimer's disease. Studies show that amyloid plaques build up slowly and are often present in healthy older individuals, with significant buildup linked to quicker memory decline and brain atrophy.
Five advocacy organizations from India, Australia and the US have been granted travel awards by IASLC to attend the 14th World Conference on Lung Cancer in Amsterdam. The winners will enjoy free registration, accommodation and travel expenses, as well as free IASLC affiliate membership.
The study, published by Professor Bernard Schutz, demonstrates that an additional detector would more than double the detection rate of gravitational waves. The new network could detect around 370 events per year, increasing to 500 events after a few years of operation.
A new sustainable aviation fuels industry in Australia and New Zealand could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 17% and generate over 12,000 jobs. The CSIRO report predicts a reduction in Australia's reliance on imported fossil fuel by $2 billion per annum.
A 22-year-old undergraduate student has made a groundbreaking discovery of the Universe's 'missing mass' by detecting filaments in X-ray data. This finding is significant as it proves the prediction that the mass should be low in density but high in temperature, providing valuable insights into large-scale cosmic structures.
Researchers used radio telescopes to produce the most detailed image of particle jets erupting from a supermassive black hole in a nearby galaxy. The image shows features as small as 15 light-days across, making it the highest-resolution view of galactic jets ever made.
A CSIRO Australia study found that ocean warming is detrimental to the growth of a long-lived south-east Australian and New Zealand inshore species, the banded morwong. The research team analyzed long-term changes in the growth rates of the banded morwong and observed slowed growth at warmer temperatures.
A team of researchers successfully barcoded over 28,000 Australian moth and butterfly specimens, covering 65% of the country's known species. This achievement will transform biodiversity monitoring and biosecurity efforts in Australia.
A team of scientists at Monash University has discovered a manganese-based catalyst that can split water into hydrogen and oxygen using sunlight. The breakthrough uses the common mineral birnessite, which is found in rocks, to create a simple and efficient process for producing clean fuel.
Researchers found that great desert burrowing skink families construct complex tunnel systems with up to 20 entrances, extending over 13 meters. Multiple generations participate in the process, suggesting a unique insight into lizard evolution and family cooperation.
Researchers at Brown University study thylacine bones and find they were solitary, ambush-style predators, unlike dogs that hunt in packs. Their unique arm structure allowed for subduing prey after surprise attacks, differing from other large canid species.
Researchers identified two mutations responsible for hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathy type 1 (HSAN1), causing cognitive decline, hearing loss, and sensory impairments in young adults. The study provides insights into the disease's mechanisms and potential future research directions.
A University of Melbourne study found that male doctors are four times more likely than female doctors to face disciplinary action for misconduct. The majority of cases involved sexual misconduct, which was responsible for 24% of all cases handled by tribunals.
A new study suggests that allowing adolescents to drink with adult supervision may actually increase drinking and harm, rather than teach responsible behavior. Parents should adopt clear 'no-use' policies for young teens, setting strict rules regarding alcohol use.
A study published in the American Heart Association journal found a strong link between excessive screen time in children and narrowed arteries in the back of their eyes. Children who spent more hours watching TV or playing video games had narrower retinal arteriolar caliber, indicating future cardiovascular risk.
Tropical Storm Errol has strengthened overnight and developed into a well-defined center of circulation, with strong thunderstorms and cold cloud tops. The storm is expected to bring heavy rainfall, rough surf, and gusty winds along the northern coast of Western Australia.
Researchers found that male humpbacks sing the same mating tune, but with changing patterns over time, spreading across the ocean from west to east. The study revealed cultural transmission on a broad scale, similar to humans, as songs spread between populations in the Pacific Ocean.
The Lancet Series on Stillbirths reveals over 2.6 million stillbirths annually, with 98% in low-income countries, and explores causes and actions to halve this devastating event.
A York University report highlights the need for a greater emphasis on prevention, family reconnection, and rapid re-housing efforts in Canada's approach to youth homelessness. The report cites successful programs in Australia and the UK that have helped young people reconnect with their families or move into independent housing.
Despite being among the wealthiest nations, high-income countries like the US, UK, and Australia still experience high rates of stillbirths. The causes are complex, but factors such as obesity, advanced maternal age, smoking, and socioeconomic disparities contribute to these statistics.
Researchers found tiger-parrots occupy a unique spot on the parrot evolutionary tree, contradicting long-held assumptions about their relationships. This discovery sheds light on the bigger picture of parrot evolution in Australia and New Guinea.
Researchers from Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona have discovered formations in Catalonia resembling Mars' giant spring mounds. The study, published in Geodinamica Acta, suggests possible similarities in origin, shedding new light on the search for water on Mars.
Marine scientists compiled a directory of life on Australia's continental shelf, identifying 37 environmental factors shaping seabed life. The new maps and knowledge highlight complex patterns of biodiversity across the country's shelf habitats.
A University of Melbourne academic warns that lack of specific laws governing Australia's newborn screening program could threaten public trust. The program, which tests baby blood for genetic conditions, raises legal questions about who owns the blood and how it is used.
The IOF-AMGEN/GSK Health Professionals Awareness Grants aim to improve knowledge of osteoporosis among clinicians and allied health professionals. The three grants support innovative projects by IOF member societies that focus on improving knowledge and diagnosis of osteoporosis.
A study published in the International Journal of Water suggests that improving land management and farming practices in Australia could mitigate global climate change. Natural Sequence Farming, a technique developed by Peter Andrews and Duane Norris, mimics the once-efficient functions of the Australian landscape to improve soil healt...
Experts propose a six-point plan for the safe production and use of Kava, including the use of high-quality material, rigorous research, and quality control systems. The framework aims to address concerns over liver problems and ensure only safe consumption of Kava globally.
Four Penn State faculty have been selected to participate in collaborative projects with international partners on various topics, including ocean acidification, earth surface sedimentary flow processes, climate change adaptation, and public health. The partnerships aim to address global issues and promote interdisciplinary research.
A group of scientists argue that prescribed burning may cause more problems than it solves, as there is little evidence that Mediterranean-climate plants are fire-adapted. The researchers suggest alternative management practices to prevent increased fire frequency.
NASA's Aqua satellite reveals Tropical Storm Dianne is getting organized, with bands of thunderstorms wrapping into the center indicating strengthening. The Joint Typhoon Warning Center expects Dianne to intensify and move south on Feb. 18 while remaining well west of the Australian coast.
Tropical Storms Carlos and Dianne are bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds to Western and Northern Australia, respectively. The storms' cloud tops have reached temperatures as low as -52C, indicating strong convection.
Researchers have sequenced the genome of the Blackleg fungus, revealing unique compartmentalisation and genetic diversity that enables it to cause devastating disease in canola crops. This discovery will aid in developing molecular markers to predict disease outbreaks and inform crop protection strategies.
Two low-pressure areas, System 99S and System 97S, are developing near the Northern Territory and Western Australia, posing a threat to the region. These tropical systems have consolidated convection patterns and are expected to bring strong winds and heavy rainfall to coastal areas.
A low pressure area known as System 99S is strengthening in the Timor Sea, just 20 miles from Darwin, Australia. Forecasters predict the system will become a tropical depression or storm due to warm ocean surface temperatures.