A large-scale survey found that cats fed vegan diets had 34% lower odds of being assessed as overweight after accounting for other factors. Vegan-fed cats were also less affected by body weight-related problems such as arthritis and diabetes.
A new study by Griffith University found eastern Australian humpback whales grow rapidly during early life before slowing down, reaching 10.9m in length by age 5. The research provides the first contemporary growth curves for this recovering whale population, shedding light on their biology and response to environmental change.
Researchers analyzed exhaled breath to distinguish between cancerous and non-cancerous lung nodules, showing substantially better discrimination than standard clinical information alone. The study's findings support earlier lung cancer diagnosis and potentially reduce unnecessary procedures.
Researchers observed a humpback whale mother showing prolonged post-mortem behavior and attention towards her deceased calf, indicating strong maternal attachment. This rare observation challenges current understanding of baleen whale behavior and cognitive-emotional responses to death.
A Griffith University team discovered evidence of ancient betel nut use, dating back 25,000 years, which challenged the current timeline of drug use origins. The researchers found skeletal remains with unusual dental wear patterns, indicating early humans habitually sucked whole betel nuts, causing severe periodontal disease.
A 20% sugar tax could prevent millions of cases of tooth decay and gum disease in Australia, saving the country from 3.7 million tooth decay cases and 115,000 complete tooth losses. The research also found that a sugar tax could generate approximately half a million health-adjusted life years for the 2019 Australian population.
A nationwide Swedish study found that people with bipolar disorder who took semaglutide had significantly lower rates of psychiatric hospitalization. The study suggests that GLP-1 signaling may help protect the brain and improve mood stability.
Exposure to a mild strain of Streptococcus pyogenes (Strep A) triggers the body's immune response and builds protection against future infections. This natural immunity mechanism may also apply to other common infections, offering new insights into prevention and treatment strategies.
Researchers found that dietitians recommend fish oil and creatine to support concussion recovery. The study also highlights the importance of a food-first approach, focusing on energy intake, hydration, and healthy eating patterns. More clinical research is needed to inform safe and consistent nutrition advice for athletes.
Researchers found a link between periodontitis and osteoporosis through gut bacteria, showing how oral inflammation can accelerate whole-body bone deterioration. This study suggests maintaining oral health may play a role in systemic bone health.
A scientific review of 31 studies on vegan pet diets found they are generally well digested by dogs and cats. Nutritionally sound vegan options provide all essential nutrients, reducing the risk of nutrient absorption issues.
A new study from Griffith University reveals how different cave environments leave distinct 'fingerprints' on skeletal remains, providing a powerful tool for reconstructing past environments and histories in challenging conditions. Bones preserved in underwater caves often preserve their structure and surfaces remarkably well, while un...
Research found that night owls consume more energy, carbohydrates, and fats late at night, leading to increased body fat percentage, belly fat, and higher blood sugar. This eating pattern was associated with poorer lipid profiles and less favourable indicators of glucose regulation.
Pregnant women who engage with child protection services often experience fear, mistrust, and stigma, leading some to avoid health and support services. The study identified missed opportunities for early intervention and support during pregnancy, which could improve outcomes for mothers and babies.
A new study highlights the annual AU$7 trillion value of nature in mental health benefits and calls for urgent government action to expand access to nature as a frontline response to the worsening global mental health crisis. Regular, intentional exposure to natural environments is proposed as a proven yet underused solution to improvi...
A scoping review of male perpetrator programs for domestic and family violence in the Indo-Pacific reveals gaps in community-based approaches and evidence. The study highlights the need to engage men who use violence in their communities, with only 14 countries producing peer-reviewed literature on the topic.
Researchers found impaired glymphatic function in ME/CFS patients, leading to brain fog and sleep disturbances. The study suggests that dysfunction in the brain's natural cleaning system may drive this condition.
Researchers at Griffith University identified a key immune cell dysfunction in ME/CFS patients, finding impaired calcium entry into mitochondria which triggers a chain reaction in the body. This deficiency affects energy production and immune cell function.
New research from Griffith University reveals how Florida Governor Ron DeSantis' anti-ESG politics are reshaping financial markets. The study found that fossil fuel companies played a significant role in limiting banks and pension funds' investments in ESG-aligned companies.
A new study by Griffith University introduces 'target trial emulation,' a rigorous and practical approach to conducting research in rural areas. This method utilizes real-world data from routine care to produce robust evidence, addressing workforce constraints and limited infrastructure.
Researchers created two new measures to assess attitudes towards cosmetic procedures, focusing on individual views rather than general opinions. The study aims to improve understanding of personal differences in attitudes towards surgical and non-surgical procedures.
Scientists have documented humpback whales travelling over 14,000km between their breeding grounds in eastern Australia and Brazil, setting new records for the greatest distances ever confirmed. The findings highlight the value of citizen science and suggest climate-driven changes may be making such crossings more likely.
A new malaria vaccine has demonstrated strong protection against the disease, inhibiting transmission by mosquitoes and requiring no refrigeration. The vaccine targets two critical stages of the malaria parasite's life cycle, reducing infection rates by up to 80%.
A new portable sensor developed by Griffith University can rapidly detect 'forever chemicals' in water at a lower cost than traditional laboratory-based methods. The test has the potential to make high-quality PFAS monitoring more accessible, particularly for regional areas and developing nations.
Researchers at Griffith University and Queensland University of Technology have developed a machine-learning model to design efficient urea catalysts using waste gases. The model accurately predicted key co-adsorption energy values, narrowing down over 1,400 candidates to promising ones.
A study by Griffith University found microplastics and nanoplastics reduced plant growth and entered plant tissues through soil, raising concerns about food safety. Fibre-shaped plastics had the most effects on plant growth, with nanoparticles transported within plants.
A recent study by researchers at Griffith University and others found that exposure to cocaine contamination altered the movement patterns of Atlantic salmon in Lake Vättern, Sweden. Fish exposed to benzoylecgonine swam up to 1.9 times farther than unexposed fish, with dispersal distances reaching up to 12.3km.
A Griffith University study found that male and female leaders' emotional behavior influences employees' wellbeing, attitudes, and workplace behavior. Female employees prefer emotional support from female leaders, while male employees value task-focused support from male leaders.
Rock art discovered in northwest Arnhem Land reveals up to 14 new images of the Tasmanian tiger, challenging the theory that it became extinct around 3,000 years ago. The artwork, created using red ochre and white pipe clay, provides rare insight into the cultural importance of thylacines in everyday life.
Researchers have discovered that compounds from seaweed can block norovirus infection by creating a shield in the human body. Fucoidan, a compound found in brown seaweed, showed the strongest blocking activity against two major norovirus strains, GII.4 and GII.17.
Collaborative teams of AI-powered robots successfully navigated and extinguished simulated and hybrid simulation-physical fires, demonstrating a 99.67% success rate in real-world deployment potential.
Researchers at Griffith University have successfully engineered a biopolymer particle vaccine that mimics the Chikungunya virus, inducing an immune response without causing disease. The vaccine's potential to prevent long-lasting joint pain and autoimmune responses makes it a promising solution for global health threats.
Researchers developed a rapid zebrafish-based functional assay to determine the pathogenicity of novel SMN1 mutations, potentially informing urgent clinical decisions. The test showed that many previously uncertain variants were harmless, reducing distress for families and saving lives.
A new Griffith University study found altered brain connection in people with ME/CFS and Long COVID, leading to cognitive difficulties such as memory problems and slowed thinking. The research used ultra-high field MRI technology to investigate the disruption in brain connectivity during a mentally demanding task.
A newly excavated archaeological site in central China has uncovered evidence of advanced stone tool technologies, dating back 160,000-72,000 years ago, challenging long-held assumptions about early hominin behaviour in Eastern Asia. The findings suggest that hominins in this region were more inventive and adaptable than previously bel...
The discovery of hand stencil rock art in Sulawesi, Indonesia, dates back at least 67,800 years, pushing back the known history of human settlement in Australia. The findings support the idea that modern humans arrived in Sahul via the northern migration route, with implications for our understanding of Australian Aboriginal culture.
Researchers at Griffith University have successfully conducted a Phase II clinical trial in China, showing promising results for a carbohydrate-based drug candidate called STC3141. The treatment aims to reduce organ damage and reverse biological responses associated with sepsis.
Researchers at Griffith University found a consistent biological feature of ME/CFS: faulty TRPM3 ion channel function in immune cells. This discovery provides clear evidence for developing a diagnostic test and guiding new therapeutic targets.
A study found that maintaining a bedroom temperature of 24°C at night reduces stress responses and helps the heart recover from heat exposure. Dr. Fergus O'Connor's research suggests this can be especially beneficial for individuals aged 65 years and over.
A new study reveals a deep sequence of archaeological deposits at Leang Bulu Bettue cave in Sulawesi, Indonesia, dating back to at least 8 meters below the current ground surface. This finds suggest that an archaic human species and Homo sapiens may have overlapped in time on the island.
Dr Bandit Heeler, a celebrated archaeologist and Father of the Year, has been offered a professorial chair at Griffith University. His research on canine origins and language capacity will contribute to the university's commitment to academic excellence.
Researchers found altered brain tissue microstructure and neurochemical profiles in Long COVID and recovered COVID-19 individuals through advanced MRI techniques. This study provides vital insights into how COVID-19 affects the central nervous system, potentially explaining cognitive problems reported after infection.
Children from low-income groups were disproportionately disadvantaged by online testing, with numeracy and spelling subjects most affected. Researchers call for targeted support for disadvantaged communities to address educational inequality and promote equal access to digital resources.
A study led by Griffith University's National Centre for Neuroimmunology and Emerging Diseases has mapped inflammatory pathways and genetic signatures in Australian veterans with Gulf War Illness (GWI). The research offers new hope for targeted treatment development and biomarker identification.
A large bundle of stone tools was deliberately buried near a waterhole in the remote outback around 170 years ago. The tools were likely used by Indigenous Australians to facilitate trade and daily life. Archaeologists from Griffith University have uncovered this cache, providing valuable insights into the region's history.
To mitigate excessive heat strain, it is essential to limit physical exertion and maintain hydration. Griffith University researchers recommend resting in shaded or cool spaces for 15-45 minutes per hour depending on work intensity.
A study by Griffith University researchers reveals that smartphone sharing is a growing issue, with 20% of identity theft perpetrators being current or former intimate partners. The study argues that one-user/one-device threat models are inadequate for addressing interpersonal cybersecurity risks.
Two pioneering studies explore consumer acceptance of vegan and alternative protein-based pet diets among dog and cat guardians worldwide. Overall, 43% and 51% of respondents would consider at least one type of more sustainable diet for their pets, with cultivated meat-based and vegan options gaining popularity.
Alcohol-related diseases and injuries in Australia have the potential to cost the healthcare system a staggering $68 billion over 60 years. If action is taken to eliminate alcohol consumption, it could prevent over 25 million cases of diseases and injuries, and save the system $55 billion in the first 25 years.
A simple sit-stand ratio of 30 minutes sitting followed by 15 minutes standing improves lower back pain, focus, and reduces stress. The study found that participants using the fixed ratio had greater reductions in pain and additional benefits such as lowered stress levels.