/science7dHow do scientists hunt for dark matter? A physicist explains why the mysterious substance is so hard to findThis article explains how scientists search for dark matter, a mysterious substance that makes up most of the matter in the universe but does not interact with light. Scientists look for it in faraway galaxies and underground detectors, using gravitational lensing and X-ray telescopes to observe its effects. While they have not observed dark matter directly, they hope that the weak force, which can interact with subatomic particles, might provide a way to detect it.
/australia7dTop 15 Australian Megaprojects That Scare America as Power ShiftsAustralia is investing heavily in infrastructure projects that will define the continent for the next century, including the Western Sydney International Airport, Sydney Metro West, Snowy 2.0, EnergyConnect, Inland Rail, Lumsden Point Port upgrade, Brisbane’s Cross River Rail, and Melbourne’s Suburban Rail Loop.
/australia7d‘Disturbing’: Australian government demands review of Roblox’s PG rating after reports of child grooming | Australia news | The GuardianAustralian government, alarmed by reports of child grooming and exposure to explicit content on Roblox, demands a review of the platform’s PG rating and accountability from Roblox for its child safety measures.
/australia13dGiant Pilbara wind, solar and hydrogen hub dumped by bp wins $21 million government grantThe Australian Renewable Energy Hub, a project for an up to 26 GW wind, solar, and green hydrogen hub in Western Australia’s Pilbara region, has received a $21 million government grant despite being abandoned by BP. The grant aims to boost the region’s transition to green iron production, with the first phase targeting 1 GW of wind and solar capacity and a 150 MW hydrogen production facility by 2030.
/australia13dAustralia’s long, complicated energy transition is finally working – and not a moment too soon | Tony Wood for the Conversation | The GuardianAustralia's energy transition is showing positive trends with renewables and energy storage contributing more than 50% of supplied electricity last quarter. This shift has led to a 40% drop in wholesale power prices and is expected to lower retail electricity bills by mid-2026. Despite challenges, including transmission delays and the role of gas as a backup, the progress towards a sustainable energy future is encouraging.
/australia14dThese voices are the loudest in Australia’s ‘climate wars’New research reveals that about 20 groups, including fossil fuel industries, industry advocates, NGOs, and think tanks, dominate climate policy debates in Australia. These groups, which account for over half of all activity, include both supporters and opponents of climate action. The media, in particular, shows a bias towards reporting pro-fossil fuel messages, while fossil fuel interests represent 43% of all media mentions.
/australia14dRBA interest rates decision: Reserve Bank increases cash rate to 3.85% in blow to mortgage holders | Reserve Bank of Australia | The GuardianThe Reserve Bank of Australia has raised the cash rate to 3.85%, marking the end of the shortest rate-cutting cycle in its modern history. This decision follows an unexpected jump in inflation, which is expected to impact mortgage holders, increasing the monthly repayment on a $600,000 home loan by $90.
/health14dHalf of the racial mortality gap is explained by stress and inflammationA new analysis published in JAMA Network Open reveals that accumulated life stress and resulting body inflammation account for nearly half of the difference in death rates between Black and White adults in the U.S. The study, led by Isaiah D. Spears from Washington University in St. Louis, suggests that chronic stress from systemic racism contributes to higher levels of inflammation, which in turn increases the risk of earlier death among Black adults.
/apple14dApple’s Siri future is hybrid, integrated — and already here – ComputerworldApple announced record Q1 results and provided insights into its future plans for artificial intelligence, particularly Siri, which will be powered by a partnership with Google Gemini. The new Siri will operate on-device or via Apple’s Private Cloud Compute system, emphasizing privacy and integration across Apple platforms. Apple’s approach to AI deployment is expected to appeal to enterprises in regulated industries and defense-adjacent sectors. The company cited successful deployments with AstraZeneca and Snowflake as examples of the potential benefits of Apple Intelligence. Despite challenges such as processor supply constraints, Apple’s high demand for its products indicates a strong market position.
/healthnews21dRheumatoid arthritis has no cure – but researchers are homing in on preventing itNew research is showing that rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease affecting over 18 million people worldwide, can be identified in its preclinical stage, potentially allowing for prevention before symptoms appear. The research, led by Dr. Deane, focuses on identifying blood markers like anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies that indicate the disease's early stages. While treatments for preventing rheumatoid arthritis are still in the trial phase, the hope is that identifying at-risk individuals early will lead to more effective prevention strategies in the future.
/science21dA natural aging molecule may help restore memory in Alzheimer’s | ScienceDailyResearchers at the National University of Singapore have identified a natural aging-related molecule, calcium alpha-ketoglutarate (CaAKG), which can repair key memory processes affected by Alzheimer’s disease. This compound improves communication between brain cells and restores early memory abilities that typically fade first. Because it already exists in the body and declines with age, boosting it may offer a safer way to protect the brain. The discovery hints at a new strategy for slowing cognitive aging before severe damage sets in.
/australia23dWhat the IMF actually said about the Australian economyThe IMF's January update on the world economy mentioned Australia only once, noting that the country, along with Norway, is projected to experience persistent above-target inflation. Despite media reports suggesting the IMF was warning Australia, the update did not criticize the government's spending or provide new inflation projections. Instead, it confirmed the Reserve Bank of Australia's earlier forecast that inflation would not return to under 3% until mid-2027. The IMF also projected Australia's economic growth to remain among the best of advanced economies, with growth expected to outpace that of the G7 nations next year.
/australia23dTrump’s ‘new normal’ leaves Australia marooned. We can no longer pretend otherwise | Zoe Daniel | The GuardianZoe Daniel's article in The Guardian discusses the disintegration of the rules-based global order, emphasizing the destabilizing actions of the Trump administration. It highlights the challenges faced by middle powers like Australia, who find themselves in a precarious position as traditional alliances are threatened and the U.S. under Trump acts unpredictably. The article calls for a new approach by middle powers to navigate this rapidly changing global landscape.
/technology23dDumbphone Owners Have Lost Their Minds | WIREDThis article from WIRED explores the growing trend among Gen Z to ditch smartphones in favor of dumbphones, examining the psychological and practical implications of such a shift. It delves into the concept of the 'extended mind hypothesis' and 'transactive memory' to illustrate how deeply smartphones have become integrated into our cognitive processes. The author reflects on personal experiences and fears of losing a part of themselves if they were to give up their smartphone, while also acknowledging the benefits of reduced screen time and increased mindfulness. The article concludes by questioning whether the transition to dumbphones is truly feasible and what it might mean for those who remain enmeshed with their devices.
/australia27dCoalition under threat as three Nationals senators resign from frontbench after crossing floor | Coalition | The GuardianThe Coalition is under threat as three Nationals senators resigned from the frontbench after crossing the floor on Labor’s hate speech bill, challenging the authority of Sussan Ley and Nationals leader David Littleproud. The opposition leader, Sussan Ley, accepted their resignations, insisting that cabinet solidarity is a non-negotiable principle. The Nationals are threatening to permanently end their coalition with the Liberal party. The legislation, which allows the government to designate organizations as ‘hate groups’ and introduces tougher penalties for religious and spiritual leaders who promote violence, passed the Senate.
/australia29dAlbanese considers Trump’s invitation to join Gaza ‘board of peace’ despite concerns body may undermine UN | Anthony Albanese | The GuardianAustralian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is considering Donald Trump's invitation to join the US president's proposed 'board of peace' initiative for Gaza reconstruction and Middle East peace efforts, despite concerns it may undermine the UN. The board, which includes leaders from France, Germany, Italy, Hungary, Canada, Argentina, the European Commission, and Middle East powers, promises to be a 'more nimble and effective international peace-building body'. Trump will serve as chair, with countries paying US$1bn to the US expected to be given permanent status. Albanese confirmed Australia had been invited to join the new international body, promising serious consideration, especially around proposals to advance Middle East peace efforts.
/technology29dWhy trust will define the $20 trillion AI opportunity | World Economic ForumThe World Economic Forum article highlights the critical role of trust in securing AI systems, emphasizing the need to protect the language and data that AI relies on. As AI systems become integral to business operations, they face new threats targeting their understanding of language, which can lead to compromised insights and intellectual property leaks. The article calls for a zero-trust approach, advocating for the verification of all data and instructions that feed AI models to ensure their integrity and authenticity. It also stresses the importance of global cooperation and shared standards to address these risks, suggesting that trust will be a key factor in the future of AI innovation.
/australia29dAustralia’s koala paradox: why is the beloved marsupial endangered in parts but overabundant in others? | Wildlife | The GuardianAustralia’s koala paradox: why is the beloved marsupial endangered in parts but overabundant in others? | Wildlife | The Guardian. The article explores the paradox of koala populations in Australia, where some areas face overabundance while others face endangerment. In southern Australia, koalas have thrived due to suitable habitats and lack of predators, leading to overpopulation and food scarcity. Meanwhile, in northeastern states, koalas are endangered due to habitat loss, land-clearing, and climate change. The article highlights the complexity of managing koala populations and the need for sustainable solutions.
/australia29dNew Australian carbon credit scheme for solar and EVs accused of potentially misleading customers | Energy | The GuardianA new Australian carbon offset company, Aetium, has been accused of potentially misleading customers by offering to generate thousands of credits for their solar panels and electric vehicles in a scheme that climate campaigners have labelled as junk.
/science29dSunlight at Work Beats Artificial Light for Glucose ControlThis study published in Cell Metabolism found that exposure to natural daylight in an office setting improved glycemia and other metabolic parameters in people with type 2 diabetes compared to artificial lighting. The randomized crossover study showed that individuals spent more time in the normal glucose range with natural light, and had higher fat oxidation and plasma free fatty acid levels. The lead author recommends increasing exposure to natural light during the day, especially when combined with physical activity, for better metabolic health.
/australiaJan 17thFor all the talk of Australian values our rights as citizens and humans remain fragile | Julianne Schultz | The GuardianThis article by Julianne Schultz discusses the fragility of human rights in Australia, the only liberal democracy without a constitutional or statutory bill of rights. It highlights the increasing normalization of dehumanizing behavior and the threat to the global commitment to human rights. Schultz argues that a statutory bill of rights could have a practical and symbolic impact, strengthening Australian advocacy in a world where human rights are increasingly derided.
/socialscienceJan 17thThere Are 4 Types Of Introverts. Which One Are You?This HuffPost article explores the four types of introverts: social, thinking, anxious, and restrained. Each type has unique characteristics and strengths, and therapists provide advice on how to embrace and thrive as each type. Social introverts prefer smaller gatherings and need downtime to recharge. Thinking introverts thrive on solitary activities and deep reflection. Anxious introverts may feel nervous in social situations but can benefit from gradual exposure and therapy. Restrained introverts need time to warm up to new situations and prefer deliberate routines. The article emphasizes that introversion is not a flaw but a strength.
/spaceJan 17thAstronauts’ Brains Are Being DisplacedA recent study published in the journal PNAS reveals that astronauts' brains shift upward and backward within the skull after spaceflight, with sensory and motor regions experiencing the most significant displacement. The research, based on MRI data from 26 astronauts and a control group, indicates that the duration of exposure to microgravity correlates with the degree of brain shift. While most changes revert within six months on Earth, some deformations persist longer, raising concerns about the long-term health implications of space travel.
/australiaJan 17thOutback NSW lake home to hundreds of turtles set to run dry in 130-year first - ABC NewsImperial Lakes Nature Park in Outback NSW, home to hundreds of turtles, is on the brink of drying up for the first time in over a century, posing a significant environmental crisis. The eastern lake, which has survived past droughts, is now at knee-depth due to hot conditions and low rainfall, requiring at least 87 megalitres of water to prevent it from drying out completely. Landcare Broken Hill is urgently seeking community support to raise $150,000 to purchase water for the lake, as local reservoirs are also below capacity and unable to provide assistance. The drying lake threatens the survival of native wildlife, including endangered species, and highlights the need for sustainable water management and funding for nature reserves.
/australiaJan 17thGet ready for Waymo's autonomous cars on Australian roads – report | CarExpertWaymo, owned by Alphabet, is reportedly in talks with the Australian federal government to begin testing its autonomous vehicles on public roads. The company, which has faced several incidents involving its self-driving cars, is looking to expand its operations outside its US base, where it is already testing in cities like London and Tokyo. The Australian Government is set to announce a new Automated Vehicle Safety Law in 2027 to provide a national framework for autonomous vehicles.
/scienceJan 17thMeat may play an unexpected role in helping people reach 100 | New ScientistA study in China has found that meat consumption may contribute to a longer lifespan, particularly among older, underweight individuals. The research suggests that meat provides essential amino acids that affect the aging process and can help build stronger muscles and bones. However, the study also emphasizes the importance of a balanced diet that includes vegetables. The findings suggest that dietary recommendations for the oldest-old should focus on nutritional adequacy rather than strict avoidance of animal foods, especially for underweight older adults.
/australiaJan 17thLabor to separate gun control from proposed laws to address hate speech, PM says | Australian politics | The GuardianAustralian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced that the government will separate gun control measures from proposed hate speech laws, acknowledging that the racial vilification provisions do not have the support of the Senate. The government will instead focus on introducing new gun control laws, including a national gun buyback scheme and stricter rules on gun importation, following opposition from the Coalition and the Greens to the hate speech legislation.
/scienceJan 16thEcological and social pressures drive same-sex sexual behaviour in non-human primates | Nature Ecology & EvolutionThis research article from Nature Ecology & Evolution examines the occurrence of same-sex sexual behavior (SSB) in 59 non-human primate species, analyzing its associations with environmental, life history, and social traits. Findings indicate that SSB is more likely in species inhabiting drier environments with increased food scarcity and predation pressure, in species with greater size dimorphism and longer lifespans, and in those with more complex social structures and hierarchies. Structural equation modeling suggests that environmental and life history traits influence SSB indirectly, while social complexity directly promotes its occurrence.
/lgbtqJan 16thHockey player's viral coming-out was 'overwhelming' in 'the best way possible'This article discusses hockey player Jesse Kortuem's experience after coming out as gay, inspired by the show Heated Rivalry. Kortuem shares the overwhelming positive response he received and how it has impacted him and others in the hockey community.
/australiaJan 16thAustralia’s confidence in Trump’s US has evaporated. What will it take for the alliance to rupture? | Australian foreign policy | The GuardianIt’s about time, America is no longer a reliable partner.