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A study conducted by researchers at the University of Sydney examined the presence of wrongly identified nucleotide sequences in high-impact-factor cancer research journals. The study found that 3.8% of nucleotide sequences in Molecular Cancer papers and 4.0% in Oncogene papers were wrongly identified. These wrongly identified sequences were distributed across a significant number of papers, including those from 2020. The study highlights the risks of relying on journal impact factors or citations as indicators of research quality. [Extracted from the article]

A report from the University of Newcastle in Australia discusses the importance of scope of practice regulation in medicine for patient safety, access to care, and professional autonomy. The paper explores the impact of these regulations on healthcare delivery, professional responsibilities, and patient outcomes. It highlights the benefits and drawbacks of rigorous scope of practice regulations, including their impact on clinical innovation and access to care. The author proposes implementing a national, artificial intelligence-powered, real-time outcome monitoring system to address these challenges. The paper emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to regulation to avoid stifling clinical innovation while ensuring patient safety and professional accountability. [Extracted from the article]

A report from Charles Sturt University in Bathurst, Australia, highlights the influence of dialect on the identification and severity of speech sound disorder (SSD) in Vietnamese-speaking children. The study reviewed five research papers on Vietnamese-speaking children living in Vietnam and Australia and found that the different dialects of Vietnamese affect the production of consonants, vowels, and tones. The researchers recommend considering dialect in diagnostic decision-making by adding dialectal variants to assessment score sheets and calculating accuracy of production based on both the standard form and dialectal form. Speech and language therapists are encouraged to report the percentage of consonants correct-standard (PCC-S) and percentage of consonants correct-dialect (PCC-D) to improve assessments and interventions for Vietnamese-speaking children with SSD. [Extracted from the article]

The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has released a roadmap called "Silicon to Solar" that outlines a plan for Australia to establish a robust domestic supply chain for solar photovoltaic (PV) manufacturing. The roadmap, funded by ARENA and conducted by the Australian Photovoltaic Institute (APVI), Deloitte, and industry stakeholders, analyzes the technoeconomics of each phase of the solar PV supply chain. Currently, Australia relies heavily on external markets for cost-effective PV modules, but as the country accelerates its solar PV deployment, ensuring a diversified and reliable supply chain becomes crucial. ARENA aims to position Australia as a hub for cutting-edge solar technology manufacturing. Additionally, ARENA has unveiled a white paper highlighting the potential of ultra-low-cost solar for Australia and beyond, with a target of 30% solar module efficiency and an installed cost of 30 cents per watt by 2030. [Extracted from the article]

A new paper published in the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology describes the fossils of a 380-million-year-old predatory fish named Harajicadectes zhumini. This fish, known from at least 17 fossil specimens, is the first reasonably complete bony fish found from Devonian rocks in central Australia. Harajicadectes is a member of the Tetrapodomorpha group, which includes the forerunners of modern tetrapods. The discovery of this fish is the result of 50 years of exploration and research, and it provides valuable insights into the evolution of air breathing in vertebrates. [Extracted from the article]

Australia is looking to digitize its debt market in order to attract foreign capital and remain globally competitive. Fintech company Imperium Markets is working with the government-backed Digital Finance Cooperative Research Center to study the tokenization of financial instruments and settlements using distributed ledger technology. This would allow for faster and more cost-effective processes. Australia is playing catch up to other countries, such as Hong Kong, that have already sold tokenized bonds. The project is set to begin by June and will initially focus on major banks' negotiable certificates of deposit before expanding to the broader market. [Extracted from the article]

Officeworks, a chain of office supplies stores operated under parent company Wesfarmers in Australia, is deploying Appriss Retail's Secure solution to reduce shrink. Officeworks had relied on standard reporting practices to detect behavioral exceptions at the point of sale, making... [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study conducted by the Heart Research Institute in Sydney, Australia, explores the challenges of data linkage in epidemiological research, specifically focusing on congenital heart disease. The research highlights the lengthy and intensive process of establishing data linkage projects in Australia, with the necessary approvals taking nearly two years to obtain. The study emphasizes the need for streamlining, accountability, and collaboration between jurisdictions to make data linkage more accessible and feasible for researchers. The findings provide valuable insights for practitioners and propose strategies for a more streamlined and centralized approach to data linkage. [Extracted from the article]

Purpose: This study compares the motives of holding cash between developed (Australian) and developing (Malaysian) financial markets. Design/methodology/approach: For the period 2006–2020, the t-test, fixed-effect and generalised method of moment (GMM) model have been applied to a sample of 1878 (1,165 Australian and 713 Malaysian) firms. Findings: The empirical results reveal that firms in developed financial markets hold higher cash compared to the developing financial markets. The findings confirm that motives to hold cash differ between developed and developing financial markets. The GMM findings further show that cash holdings (CH) in Australia are higher due to higher ratios of cash flow, research and development (R&D) and return on assets (ROA), and lower due to larger dividend payments. In the Malaysian market, however, cash flows and R&D are ineffectual, ROA falls and dividend payments rise CH. Practical implications: The study helps managers, practitioners and investors understand that firms' distinct economic, institutional, accounting and financial environments are important. To attain the desired outcomes, they must thus comprehend and consider these considerations while developing suitable liquidity strategies. Originality/value: To the authors' best knowledge, this is the initial research demonstrating how varied cash motives and their ramifications are in developed and developing financial markets. Therefore, this study identifies the importance that CH motives varied among financial markets and that findings from a particular market cannot be generalised to other markets because of the market and financial structural variations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on former Prime Minister of Australia Scott Morrison's political legacy, departure from parliament and the impact of his leadership style on Australian politics. Topics include Morrison's use of language to obfuscate meaning and create political theatre; his reliance on symbolic gestures over substantive policy actions; and the shift in political discourse away from nuanced beliefs towards superficial comparisons with past leaders like John Howard.

The article highlights how nurses and midwives at the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) took Protected Industrial Action (PIA) to address deteriorating pay and conditions, emphasizing their need for fair treatment and recognition of experience. Topics include nurses' advocacy for improved working conditions, recognition of qualifications, and payment for all hours worked, showcasing their dedication to providing quality care while facing challenges like fatigue and pay disparities.

The article focuses on Australia's exceptional performance at the World Open Water Championship in Doha, marking the country's best-ever results, with Moesha Johnson narrowly missing the podium but securing Australia's second quota place for the Paris Olympics, followed by Nic Sloman and Kyle Lee earning spots for the men's team.

The article examines the phenomenon of online misogyny fueled by figures like Andrew Tate, which is influencing the behavior of Australian boys in schools. It delves into how Tate's online presence, characterized by toxic masculinity and misogyny, has led to a troubling shift in classroom dynamics, affecting female teachers and students alike. It also highlights the impact of this misogynist radicalization on school environments.

Australia is lagging behind the US and Canada in involving Indigenous people in renewable energy projects on their land. However, with Australia's abundant solar and wind resources, there is an opportunity for the country to become a renewable energy superpower. It is important for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to benefit from these projects, as they can provide income, jobs, and access to clean energy, which can help protect their culture and heritage. The Australian government is developing a First Nations Clean Energy Strategy and is seeking public input on the matter. It is crucial to invest in First Nations-led clean energy projects to ensure a successful transition and to address past injustices. Indigenous peoples have recognized land interests covering around 26% of Australia's landmass and want to be part of the energy transition, but they need support and resources. This can include federal grants for energy-efficient initiatives, workforce training, and feasibility studies. Governments must engage First Nations people early in the planning process and ensure their consent is obtained. The First Nations Clean Energy Network is working to ensure that First Nations communities benefit from the clean energy boom and is calling on the government to invest an additional A$100 billion into the renewables industry. The US and Canada have made significant investments in First Nations-led clean energy projects, which have resulted in fewer legal delays and a social license to operate. Climate change poses a significant risk to First Nations people, and investing in clean energy projects led by them can build climate resilience. Australia must respond to the global push [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses how Australia's skilled migration policy, implemented by the Howard government from 1996 to 2007, shifted the focus from family migration to skilled migrants. The research analyzes changes in migrant clusters at the local neighborhood level and examines where these clusters are located. The study aims to understand the impact of skilled migration on job opportunities for highly educated immigrants and assesses whether they are finding jobs that match their qualifications. The research also explores settlement and integration theories, finding that segmented assimilation best characterizes migrant experiences. The article highlights the importance of understanding cultural diversity and assimilation for effective policymaking in areas such as health, urban planning, and disaster risk management. The research reveals that diversity is higher in urban areas compared to rural areas, with pockets of diversity in rural regions. The article also discusses the dominance of Asian-born migrants, particularly from China, in diverse clusters and the shift towards migrants with good English skills and tertiary education. Surprisingly, these skilled migrants tend to have lower incomes than non-migrants, suggesting they may be overqualified for the jobs they find. The study also examines the physical features associated with diversity, such as public transport and housing characteristics. Overall, the research highlights the long-term changes in Australian cities driven by assimilation based on desires shared by all Australians, including good English, home ownership, suburbanization, and access to public transport. [Extracted from the article]

The article focuses on the life and achievements of Hubert Wilkins, an Australian explorer, aviator, war photographer, and environmentalist, highlighting his significant contributions to polar exploration, pioneering flights, and wartime service. Topics include Wilkins's expeditions to Antarctica and the Arctic, his role as a war photographer during World War I, and the challenges in preserving his extensive legacy, including the mishandling and destruction of his personal memorabilia.

Matthew Jukes, an Australian wine advocate, has released the 20th anniversary edition of his 100 Best Australian Wines report. In the report, Jukes emphasizes the quality, value, and diversity of Australian wines, debunking the misconception that they are solely big and clumsy. He also praises the ability of Australian wines to age gracefully and highlights the country's expertise in bottling and finishing wines. The report features a selection of top wines from established and emerging wineries, and it includes detailed descriptions of each wine, highlighting their unique characteristics and flavors. The document also provides information on where to purchase each wine and the recommended years for drinking. [Extracted from the article]

Australia's new National Defence Strategy aims to make defense a matter for all Australians and takes a long-term view into the next decade. The strategy focuses on the "strategy of denial" to deter and prevent hostile forces from attacking Australia. It includes the acquisition of nuclear submarines under the AUKUS alliance, as well as immediate priorities such as buying long-range missiles, building up defense base infrastructure, improving workforce conditions, boosting innovation, and deepening Indo-Pacific partnerships. However, there are concerns about the strategy's achievability, particularly regarding the shortfall of well-trained personnel and the lack of consideration for operational innovations and rapid technology developments. [Extracted from the article]

Australia has made significant progress in growing its protected area estate, which now covers 22% of the continent. However, the Australian government's new draft guidelines for area-based conservation propose that 25 years of "intention" to deliver biodiversity outcomes should be enough for land to count towards the 30% protected area target. This proposal is problematic because it lacks binding protection and does not align with international and Australian principles of long-term conservation. The article also discusses the concept of "other effective area-based conservation measures" (OECMs) and the need for country-specific analysis in Australia. The proposed principles for OECM development in Australia deviate from global guidance, particularly in terms of the definition of "long-term." The article highlights the importance of long-term commitments and the need to ensure that all forms of area-based conservation meet the criteria for inclusion in global biodiversity targets. [Extracted from the article]

Australia's big supermarkets are being urged to change their operations through the implementation of a mandatory food and grocery code of conduct. The code, which is currently voluntary, sets standards for fair negotiations over prices for products. The review recommends penalties of up to A$10 million for non-compliance and a complaints mechanism to address retribution against suppliers. However, critics argue that the recommendations do not go far enough in addressing the issue of market dominance by major players Coles and Woolworths. The interim report also proposes independent mediation for suppliers and the need for clarity on the independence of mediators. The article emphasizes the importance of proper regulation and resourcing by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) to effectively enforce the code. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses Australia's response to the killing of humanitarian workers in Israel, specifically focusing on the death of an Australian national named Lalzawmi "Zomi" Frankcom. The Australian prime minister, Anthony Albanese, expressed his distress and called the actions "completely unacceptable." The foreign minister, Penny Wong, emphasized the need for accountability and transparency in the investigation. However, the article highlights Australia's continued support for the Israeli military industry, including the approval of defense exports to Israel. The author suggests that Australia should take stronger action, such as ending arms sales and pursuing legal accountability for civilian deaths. [Extracted from the article]

A study examined why international students choose to study in Australia and identified 22 factors that drive their decision. The top five reasons were career opportunities and life experiences, quality education and qualification, cost of study and living, migration prospects and policy, and the reputation of tertiary education institutions and academic staff. Environmental factors, such as a safe environment and proximity to their home country, were found to have more influence on students' decision-making than academic factors. Australia faces competition from countries like the US, UK, China, and Asian destinations that offer shorter travel distances and rising university rankings. To remain competitive, Australia should provide support for international students to be employable, establish clear migration pathways, promote regional universities, and encourage pathways between vocational education and universities. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted in Australia found that rates of chlamydia retesting among young women remain low, despite guidelines recommending retesting at 3 months post-treatment. The study analyzed data from 62 sites and found that only 16.2% of women were retested within 2-4 months, with 12.6% testing positive again. The odds of retesting were lower during the COVID-19 pandemic. The researchers concluded that increased efforts are needed to improve timely retesting in order to reduce the risk of reproductive complications and onward transmission. [Extracted from the article]

The Australian government has announced plans to remove import tariffs on various consumer goods, such as toothbrushes, chopsticks, and pens, in order to reduce household expenses and business costs. This move is expected to save companies over A$30 million in compliance costs annually and streamline $8.5 billion of trade each year. The government referred to these changes as the "biggest unilateral tariff reform in at least two decades" and stated that the selected tariffs were chosen to benefit businesses without negatively impacting Australian industries or trade negotiations. [Extracted from the article]

The Australian government has announced plans to remove import tariffs on various consumer goods, such as toothbrushes, chopsticks, and pens, in order to reduce household expenses and business costs. This move is expected to save companies over A$30 million in compliance costs annually and streamline $8.5 billion of trade each year. The government referred to these changes as the "biggest unilateral tariff reform in at least two decades" and stated that the selected tariffs were chosen to benefit businesses without negatively impacting Australian industries or trade negotiations. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Monash University in Frankston, Australia have published a report on the methodology for analyzing real-time driving posture data in individuals with low back pain. The study aimed to establish a reliable method for measuring driving posture using validated and repeatable posture measurement tools. The researchers found that mean lumbar flexion was a reliable outcome for characterizing driving posture in drivers with low back pain, while peak lumbar flexion may also be used depending on the study. The study provides valuable insights for occupational drivers with low back pain and has been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

A report from the University of Melbourne discusses the impacts of Australia's first residential peer-support service for individuals at risk of suicide. The study found that psychological distress significantly improved after the intervention and at follow-up. Participants reported improvements in mental well-being, feelings of connectedness, respite, and confidence to engage with other services. The study suggests that residential peer-support services could be a valuable alternative to conventional inpatient treatment for individuals at risk of suicide. However, it is important to note that the study did not include a control group, the sample size was relatively small, and participants may have provided socially desirable answers. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study has found that hearing loss is twice as common in Australia's lowest income groups compared to higher income groups. This disparity is attributed to lifestyle factors such as smoking, unhealthy diet, and lack of exercise, which are more prevalent in lower socioeconomic communities. Additionally, people with lower incomes may face challenges in accessing timely hearing care, leading to missed identification of treatable ear disease. Lack of access to affordable hearing care for working-age adults on low incomes not only has a social cost but also an economic cost, with productivity losses being the largest component. The study suggests that reforming the current government Hearing Services Program and expanding eligibility to lower income working-age Australians could promote a more inclusive and fairer society while reducing lost productivity. [Extracted from the article]

Billionaire Widjaja family's Golden Energy and Resources and partner M Resources will buy the coal business of Australia's South32 for up to $1.65 billion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The alleged altercation occurred early on Tuesday morning, hours after the star finished the Australia leg of her Eras Tour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A report from the University of Adelaide in Australia discusses the findings of a clinical trial comparing two techniques for fetal surveillance during childbirth. The trial aimed to determine if one technique, ST analysis (STan), could reduce emergency cesarean birth rates while maintaining or improving neonatal outcomes. The study also examined the psychosocial outcomes of participants, including depression, psychological distress, quality of life, and infant feeding practices. The results showed no significant differences between the two groups in terms of psychosocial outcomes, suggesting that both monitoring types produced similar results. The findings provide valuable information for making informed decisions about monitoring options in childbirth. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from investigators at Bond University in Australia discusses the unique issues and challenges surrounding mandatory vaccination policies in First Nations communities. The report emphasizes that these issues are separate from the safety and effectiveness of vaccines, as well as the arguments for mandatory vaccination of healthcare workers. The researchers argue that cultural responsiveness and safety should be prioritized in engaging with First Nations Peoples, families, and communities, rather than relying on state compulsion. The research has been peer-reviewed and is available for further reading. [Extracted from the article]

Climate change poses a significant threat to Australia's World Heritage sites, including Kakadu National Park, the Great Barrier Reef, and the Sydney Opera House. Rising sea levels, extreme temperatures, changing fire regimes, and erosion are already impacting these sites. To address these threats, a climate change "toolkit" has been developed in collaboration with site managers and Indigenous experts, combining climate science with Indigenous knowledge systems. The toolkit provides practical guidance for adapting to climate change and protecting the cultural and natural heritage of these sites. It emphasizes the importance of engaging with Indigenous communities and respecting their traditional knowledge and intellectual property rights. [Extracted from the article]

Lowitja O'Donoghue, an Indigenous Australian activist and leader, made significant contributions to advocacy on Indigenous affairs in Australia. She served as the inaugural chair of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission (ATSIC) from 1990 to 2005, a position that no other Indigenous leader has held before or since. O'Donoghue played a key role in steering ATSIC's response to important events such as the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody and the Mabo decision. She also advocated for social justice and self-determination for Indigenous Australians, both domestically and internationally. O'Donoghue's legacy as a trailblazer and advocate for Indigenous rights is widely recognized and respected. [Extracted from the article]

A report from Flinders University in Australia suggests that the Australian Medicare Better Access initiative, which provides interventions for mild-to-moderate anxiety and depression, has not improved the overall mental health of the population. The study found that mild anxiety and depressive symptoms were more likely to worsen than improve with Better Access psychotherapy, while severe conditions were more likely to improve. The researchers suggest that similar initiatives worldwide should consider targeting more cost-effective treatments towards severe and complex conditions. [Extracted from the article]

Adelaide Oval in Adelaide, Australia, a multi-purpose sports ground used primarily for cricket and Australian rules football matches that can hold up to 70,000 fans, has deployed 20 Mashgin self-checkout kiosks, according to a press release. Mashgin uses AI-powered computer... [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]