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The essential guide to the algorithms that run your life

The essential guide to the algorithms that run your life

16 June 2021

From shaping what we read and buy to diagnosing illness, algorithms play a key role in every aspect of our lives. Here’s what you need to know about the most important ones


On the hunt for platypus DNA in Australia's waterways

On the hunt for platypus DNA in Australia's waterways

17 May 2021

Threatened platypus populations have been historically difficult to monitor, but techniques for collecting DNA samples from the waters the animals inhabit may change that


Rock at

Climate change is speeding up the degradation of ancient rock art

13 May 2021

The increasing severity and frequency of droughts in the tropics due to climate change may be accelerating the destruction of Palaeolithic rock paintings in Indonesia


pasta

Flat pasta that morphs into 3D shapes when cooked saves on packaging

5 May 2021

A flat pasta has been created that swells into 3D shapes when cooked, and that can be packed efficiently in boxes in a way that traditional pasta shapes such as fusilli can't be


Covid-19 lockdown has left young children vulnerable to some illnesses

Covid-19 lockdown has left young children vulnerable to some illnesses

28 April 2021

As some parts of Australia see a delayed surge of respiratory disease in children, there are concerns that young immune systems may be suffering from lockdowns and social distancing


firefighter

2020 Australian bushfires hit people in disadvantaged areas hardest

27 April 2021

The most socio-economically disadvantaged communities in Australia were disproportionately affected by the 2019 to 2020 bushfires


Meteorologists can predict strength of Asian monsoon a year in advance

Meteorologists can predict strength of Asian monsoon a year in advance

16 April 2021

A climate model can reliably predict the strength of the Asian summer monsoon – and the tropical cyclone activity associated with it – more than one year ahead of time, which could help governments better prepare for damaging weather events


Earthquakes in Taiwan are linked to seasonal changes in water levels

Earthquakes in Taiwan are linked to seasonal changes in water levels

14 April 2021

Seismic activity in Taiwan happens more often during the dry season when the groundwater built up during monsoon season is depleted, leaving Earth’s crust more likely to rebound under stress


mural

Graffiti can now be removed in minutes without damaging underlying art

13 April 2021

A cleaning system that uses a hydrogel can remove graffiti from street art within minutes, without any alteration to the artwork underneath


Bushfires burn along a mountainside in New South Wales, Australia

Australian bushfires warmed the stratosphere by 1°C for six months

8 April 2021

Smoke pollution from the 2019–2020 Australian bushfires warmed the stratosphere over the southern hemisphere by at least 1°C for six months after the fires


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