Researchers captured first known underwater footage of humpback whale calves nursing in Quandamooka Sea Country. The study found frequent bouts of nursing in around half of tagged individuals, supporting the bay's critical role as a humpback whale nursery and rest area.
A Griffith University study published in Nature Mental Health found that integrating nature-based therapies into clinical healthcare could address global declines in mental health. Nature experiences designed to improve mental health are not yet incorporated in regulated clinical healthcare, but embedding nature therapy into clinical h...
Researchers built a digital archaeology framework to learn about ancient humans creating finger flutings, which are marks drawn on cave walls. The study used tactile and VR setups to explore AI image recognition methods, finding promising insights but also limitations.
Griffith University researchers have developed a method to tune cancer cell behavior using re-entrant microstructures, which can guide cell attachment, spreading, and multiplication. The study uses simple design rules to achieve mechanosensitive behaviors that emerged when curvature and confinement were introduced.
Researchers discovered monumental camel rock art in northern Saudi Arabia, dated between 12,800 and 11,400 years ago. The engravings, including over 130 life-sized figures, likely marked water sources and movement routes, revealing insights into early desert communities' resilience and innovation.
New research from Griffith University finds that ceiling fans are not effective in fully alleviating heat-induced physiological strain for vulnerable populations. The study recommends using ceiling fans early during heat exposure and combining them with air conditioning to minimize health risks.
Griffith University research found Legionella prevalence stable but L. longbeachae increased in soil, posing risk to vulnerable individuals through gardening and potting soil use. The study emphasizes the importance of awareness and preventive measures to minimize exposure.
Researchers at Griffith University developed a publicly available tool to analyze unknown sound-types in large acoustic datasets. The new protocol pinpoints river species, providing valuable insights into river ecosystems.
A Phase 1 human clinical trial has commenced at Griffith University to test the efficacy and safety of a revolutionary new treatment using olfactory ensheathing cells. The trial aims to repair and regenerate nerves in patients with chronic spinal cord injury, with intensive rehabilitation before and after transplantation.
A new study found that dolphins and whales interact in a mostly mutual way, with humpback whales displaying positive behaviors towards dolphins. Humpback whales were observed rolling from side to side and moving slowly towards the dolphins with their head and rostrum.
A recent international collaboration found significant biodiversity loss in multiple types of arthropod, including butterflies, beetles, and spiders, in tropical forests. The study suggests that climate change, specifically changes to the El Niño cycle, are causing these declines.
Researchers at Griffith University have discovered stone tools on Sulawesi that date back to at least 1.04 million years ago, challenging previous estimates of human presence in the region. The finding provides significant insights into the migration and evolution of early humans across Wallacea.
A critical water source for the Northern Territory is experiencing significant losses since 2014, with groundwater levels reaching their lowest recorded storage level in 2021. The study, published in Ecological Informatics, uses satellite data to track groundwater depletion and highlights the need for improved water regulation.
A new study published in Ecology reveals traditional methods of tracking animal movement may be underestimating the actual distance travelled by whales, particularly for marine species.
Researchers found humpback whales lose 11,000kg of blubber during annual migrations, equivalent to energy from 57,000 kg of Antarctic krill. The study reveals a dramatic seasonal change in body condition, with whales fattest in autumn and slimmest in spring.
A new study by Griffith University highlights the need to rethink wildlife tourism and move away from objectifying animals. The researchers argue that even non-consumptive wildlife tourism can result in harm if it distorts public perception of animals.
Researchers developed pulsating, fabricated microneedles that can deliver medication into the body without causing pain. The PIDES method produces microneedles with a sharp and rigid tip, ideal for skin penetration, and demonstrates controlled time-dependent drug release profiles.
Research reveals extreme coral mortality after bleaching, with mortality exceeding 99% in some areas. The study highlights the urgent need for action on climate change, as repeated disturbances have compounded the ecosystem's vulnerability.
A study of 151 bluebottle specimens found four distinct species with unique morphologies and genetics, contradicting the long-held assumption of a single globally distributed species. The research team matched genomic lineages with physical forms identified from citizen-science images, verifying previously proposed but dismissed species.
A new study found that half of the remaining habitat of Australia's most critically endangered species is unprotected, posing a significant risk to their survival. The research identifies 85,000sqm of habitat as crucial for protection and management to halt new extinctions.
A new study reveals that microbes have sophisticated strategies to deal with phosphorus scarcity, shaping how ecosystems function and evolve over long timescales. Microbes act as 'phosphorus gatekeepers', competing with plants for the nutrient while also providing a source of carbon for themselves.
Researchers develop technique to make high-dimensional quantum info encoded in light more practical and reliable. This advancement enables the generation and measurement of high-dimensional quantum signals called qudits, which can process and transmit more information securely.
A new study by Griffith University reveals that the term 'nature positive' is being used more for political rhetoric than actual conservation efforts, posing a threat to biodiversity. The research found that only 0.01% of the global tourism sector makes net positive contributions to conservation.
Researchers discovered that exposure to clobazam increased the migration success of juvenile Atlantic salmon, allowing them to navigate through dams more efficiently. The study highlights the potential risks of pharmaceutical pollution on wildlife behavior and ecology.
Researchers found evidence of hunter-gatherers accessing remote islands like Malta thousands of years earlier than previously thought. They discovered stone tools, hearths, and cooked food waste at the Latnija cave site, indicating that these ancient seafarers were capable of sustained journeys across open water.
Researchers found evidence of recurring humid phases in the region over the past 8 million years, allowing for animal and hominin migrations. These wet conditions supported diverse species such as crocodiles and hippopotamids, facilitating biogeographic exchanges between Africa and Eurasia.
A Griffith University study reveals that reframing stress as a motivator can lead to improved problem-solving skills and personal growth. Participants who underwent a 15-minute online stress mindset intervention showed no negative impact on their willingness to support others.
Research by Griffith University warns that over 43% of Queensland's productive aquaculture sites are expected to be impacted by sea level rise. The study projects significant economic losses due to the impact on prawn production, with annual losses estimated at AUD$12.6-127.6 million.
A new study estimates it would cost $15.6 billion per year for 30 years to prevent extinction for 99 of Australia's priority species, due to habitat destruction, invasive species, and climate change. The Australian Government has committed to reversing the decline of 110 priority species, but experts warn that urgent action is needed t...
A recent study found that electric fans provide little cooling relief for older adults indoors during extreme heat due to their limited sweat production. Dr. Fergus O'Connor from Griffith University suggests using air conditioning at a higher temperature in conjunction with a fan to provide effective cooling and reduce operating costs.
Researchers found Homo erectus, a human ancestor, survived for over 1.5 million years in hyper-arid landscapes one million years ago. They adapted to diverse and unstable environments, challenging assumptions about early hominin dispersal limits.
The survey reveals critical low lion numbers in Queen Elizabeth and Kidepo Valley National Parks, while hyena populations show resilience across four major protected areas. Advanced spatial capture-recapture methods set a new standard for wildlife monitoring in Africa.
A new study led by Griffith University researchers found that increasing physical activity could add up to five years to an individual's life, with the most active quarter having a 73% lower risk of death. Even modest increases in movement could lead to significant life-extension benefits.
A Phase I human clinical trial is commencing to test the efficacy and safety of transplantation of olfactory cell nerve bridges to treat chronic spinal cord injury. The trial combines olfactory ensheathing cells with long-term intensive rehabilitation.
Researchers combined GPS and GRACE-based data to develop a new multivariate drought indicator, which showed strong temporal consistency with traditional drought indicators. This approach enabled the detection of previously unidentified drought events and their cascading impacts on freshwater systems.
Wildlife rangers from the Uganda Wildlife Authority successfully monitored lion populations in the Murchison Falls Nile Delta, estimating a density of 13.91 lions per 100 km². The study highlights the cost-effectiveness and value of rangers' skills in conservation efforts.
A new automated malnutrition screening tool called AutoMal has been developed by Griffith University researchers to help detect malnutrition in Australian aged care homes. The tool uses BMI and weight change data to predict the likelihood of malnutrition, requiring fewer resources than existing methods and enabling regular reporting an...
Red blood cells undergo a regulated process of removal to prevent premature ageing and potential health issues. The study highlights the role of proteins in regulating this process, paving the way for novel therapeutics and early diagnostics for anaemia.
A recent study found that synthetic opioid drug overdoses are becoming increasingly common in Australia, particularly due to the presence of fentanyl. The researchers highlighted the need for safe consumption spaces and increased awareness about the risks of fentanyl contamination.
A new study reveals critical insights into the challenges faced by women who use anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) in Australia, highlighting a significant knowledge gap in sports medicine. The research emphasizes the need for tailored harm-reduction interventions and education on AAS use to mitigate risks associated with counterfeit ...
A next-generation COVID-19 vaccine has been developed using a live attenuated intranasal approach, inducing strong memory responses and long-term protection. The vaccine provides cross-protection against all variants of concern and is highly effective against major SARS-CoV-2 proteins.
Researchers at Griffith University found that early retirement of coal-fired power plants can be financially advantageous for investors. The study highlights the potential benefits of accelerating the transition from coal to renewable energy in developing Asian economies., Key findings include: Younger coal plants can potentially be re...
Researchers found that 49% of respondents experienced a moderate to extreme impact on their mental or emotional wellbeing after encountering negative experiences in virtual environments. The study highlights the need for metaverse companies to instill clear regulatory frameworks for safe virtual spaces.
A new study has discovered the world's smallest adult arm bone, dating back 700,000 years, which provides crucial evidence on the evolution of Homo floresiensis. The fossil, found at Mata Menge in Indonesia, suggests that early humans were even smaller than previously thought.
A global analysis of wildlife on money reveals that native fauna are depicted on 15.2% of banknotes, with a strong bias towards terrestrial species and bird and mammal representations.
A recent study suggests that eco anxiety and 'lie-flat' lifestyles are costing the world trillions in lost productivity. The research, published in One Earth journal, highlights the need for major changes in global economic and political systems to address climate and biodiversity crises.
Researchers found that forests with less than 29% biomass loss retain high biodiversity and ecological value. Above 68% removal, serious conservation is needed to maintain biodiversity.
A recent study reveals that Australia's forests have declined significantly over the past 30 years, contributing to a troubling trend of deforestation and forest degradation. The country's extensive deforestation for agriculture has been a major driver of carbon emissions.
Researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery that faulty cell function in veterans with Gulf War Illness (GWI) is likely caused by intense exposure to hazardous biological and chemical agents during war service. This breakthrough provides clear scientific evidence for the condition, offering hope for new treatments.
A record-breaking swim by two lion brothers across a predator-infested African river has been documented. The study, led by Griffith University and Northern Arizona University, highlights the incredible journey of Jacob, a 10-year-old local icon known for surviving multiple life-threatening incidents.