The study reveals that Antarctic minke whales switch companions frequently, forming short-term associations and engaging in both foraging and non-foraging activities. Larger individuals tend to socialize more, and this interaction correlates with reduced feeding efforts.
A Griffith University study reveals that informal carers of loved ones with arthritis incur a significant economic burden, losing around $1,000 per week in earnings. By 2030, this figure is expected to rise to $576.9 million, highlighting the need for improved support systems and policies to alleviate this financial strain.
A new study predicts that future climate change will disrupt humpback whales' krill-heavy diet, as their primary prey item Antarctic krill becomes less abundant. The research found that all tested whale populations relied on Antarctic krill, which is essential for their migratory lifestyle.
Researchers at Griffith University propose catalysis as a transformative solution to create a circular economy in the chemical industry. By leveraging sustainable waste resources, catalysts can minimize reliance on finite fossil fuels and reduce CO2 emissions significantly. The study explores various lenses for catalysis, including was...
Scientists have discovered a previously unknown population of the Australian brook lamprey, an ancient and endangered species, in Queensland. The find expands the species' geographic range into truly tropical waters, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect this unusual fish.
A new study revises the age of human fossils in southern China, determining they date back to 33,000-23,000 years ago. This finding provides insight into human dispersals and adaptations in Eastern Asia.
A study highlights the urgent need for coordinated action to address issues impacting nearly 21 million lakes worldwide. Lakes face various ailments, including thermal, circulatory, and metabolic challenges, posing risks to millions of people reliant on their services.
A team of researchers calls for a logging loophole to be remedied within the Great Koala National Park to prevent harmful outcomes for the South East Australian koala population. The proposed park must also consider the integrity of its broader reserve habitat system and be accorded World Heritage status.
A team of researchers from Griffith University has uncovered evidence of human occupation in a lava tube cave in northern Saudi Arabia, spanning the Neolithic to Chalcolithic/Bronze Age periods. The discovery sheds light on ancient pastoralist activities and cultural exchange along pastoral routes.
The study leverages quantum entanglement and nonlocality to overcome noise challenges in quantum communication. By adding an extra connectivity link, researchers recovered lost quantum nonlocality, advancing our understanding of quantum phenomena and paving the way for resilient quantum technologies.
A new plan published in Nature Communications advocates for conserving natural areas and promoting biodiversity to prevent pandemic outbreaks. The roadmap aims to prevent pathogens from spilling over into humans by preserving habitats and ensuring animals have adequate food sources and safe havens.
A new study reveals the Persian Plateau as a pivotal geographic location for Homo sapiens during their early migration out of Africa. The research highlights the plateau's significance as a hub for early human settlement, with genetic and palaeoecological evidence supporting its role in shaping human history.
A study by Griffith University reveals high levels of microplastics in Australian biosolids, which can accumulate in soils and break down into smaller plastics. The research found that synthetic clothing fibres were the dominant type of microplastic, with highest concentrations during cold and wet seasons.
Researchers have discovered microplastics and cellulose-based fibres in the intestine samples of four apex shark species caught off the coast of South East Queensland. The study found that 82% of analysed intestine samples contained microplastics, with a mean abundance of 31 particles/kg of samples.
A new study found that floating macroalgal rafts in the Ningaloo Coast World Heritage Area provide habitat for a diverse array of juvenile oceanic fish. The rafts, formed by dislodged algae, attract large numbers of juvenile fish and other animals, serving as a potentially important transitional habitat for pre-settlement coastal fishes.
A new study found a statistically significant increase in ambulance callouts for all causes by 10%, with cardiovascular causes rising by 5%. As heatwaves intensify, the risk of ambulance callouts is expected to rise further, highlighting the need for proactive measures to address heat-related health issues.
Research on the ancient landscapes of Sahul reveals an extensive archipelago that existed during Marine Isotope Stage 4, potentially supporting populations ranging from 50,000 to 500,000 people. Sea level rise events led to the inundation of approximately 50% of the Northwest Shelf, triggering changes in human life spans and cultural d...
A new study by Griffith University and Andrés Bello University found that surfing contributes significantly to the global economy by improving mental health, with benefits estimated to be valued at ~US$1.0–3.3 billion per year on the Gold Coast. The mental health benefits from surfing comprise 57–74% of the total economic benefits of s...
A new study estimates that most corporations are not reporting the full scope of their carbon footprint, particularly in Scope 3 categories. This lack of transparency could be indicative of greenwashing, as companies focus on reporting Scope 1 and 2 emissions instead.
A study by Griffith University found that pollution can compound the female-biasing influence of rising global temperatures on sea turtles. The research, published in Frontiers in Marine Science, discovered that exposure to heavy metals and organic contaminants can feminize green sea turtle embryos.
A group of renowned experts has cast doubt on claims that Homo naledi deliberately buried their dead and produced rock art in Rising Star Cave, South Africa. The team suggests that natural agents and post-depositional processes may be responsible for the accumulation of bodies and the alleged engravings.
Researchers identified four new algae species, challenging previous taxonomic assumptions, with far-reaching implications for coral reef ecosystem management. The discovery highlights the importance of continued research and conservation efforts to protect this unique biodiversity.
Climate-induced loss and damage in the Pacific are undermining fundamental human rights, including the right to a healthy environment and land ownership. Research suggests that countries must share responsibility for violating these rights if they fail to mitigate and adapt to climate change.
A Griffith University study used the COM-B framework to explore young drinkers' capability, opportunity, and motivations. The review identifies factors contributing to excessive alcohol consumption, including social environment, motives, and physical environment.
A new nasal vaccine is being developed to provide long-term protection against Streptococcus A, a deadly bacteria causing 700 million human infections annually. The vaccine approach uses a liposome-based delivery system and has shown robust local protective immunity.
A study found that microplastic exposure negatively affected the survival, growth, and emergence of sediment-dwelling invertebrate larvae, but not their offspring. Ingestion of microplastics may inhibit food acquisition or nutrient assimilation in parentals, which can lead to negative impacts.
Researchers found that humpback whales worldwide were observed rolling with and playing in clumps of kelp and seaweed at the water's surface. The behavior may serve benefits in ectoparasite removal, skin treatment, and socializing.
A Griffith University-led randomised controlled trial found midline catheters failed significantly less often than peripheral intravenous catheters. Midline catheters were associated with fewer insertion attempts, increased dwell time, and lower healthcare costs, improving patient satisfaction.
A Griffith-led study found urban stormwater particles from tyre wear are the most prevalent microplastic, with up to 59 particles per litre of water. Researchers developed strategies to capture and remove these contaminants, including a bag made of 0.2 millimetre mesh that reduced microplastics in treated water by up to 88%.
Researchers uncover charcoal drawings at Gua Sireh Cave, dating back to the 1600s and 1800s AD, depicting Indigenous resistance to frontier violence. The site's unique artwork sheds light on the region's complex history of colonization and territorial violence.
A team of Griffith University researchers has developed a novel vaccine approach using reprogrammed bacterial cells to assemble vaccine particles. The new vaccine modality has shown promise in early development and has the potential to be a game-changer for developing many vaccines globally.
Researchers found shared sewing trends of Nautilus shell beads across three Indonesian islands dating back at least 12,000 years. The beads indicate a shared culture and practice of collecting Nautilus shells for aesthetic purposes.
Researchers found a significant increase in global bird feeding interest during COVID-19 lockdowns, with dramatic increases in search terms like 'bird feeder' and 'bird food' across 115 countries. The study suggests that this trend may have implications for avian communities, migration patterns, and biodiversity.
Griffith University researchers have developed a method to control the assembly of virus capsids using DNA origami templates. This technique allows for precise control over the shape, size, and topology of viruses, which could lead to breakthroughs in vaccine development and delivery systems.
A recent study led by Griffith University found that whales do not significantly contribute to the removal of atmospheric carbon, contrary to previous hopes. The research suggests that other methods, such as protecting marine environments and natural carbon capture, are more effective in reducing greenhouse gases.
A randomized trial found that ultrasound diagnosis of forearm fractures in children resulted in similar recoveries and reduced the need for follow-up x-rays. The study suggests using bedside ultrasounds could alleviate hospital waiting times and costs, benefiting rural areas with limited access to healthcare.
A new study calls for enhanced chemical pollution monitoring in Antarctica to support global chemical policy. The research highlights the need for Antarctic Treaty consultative parties to extend their national monitoring programs to their research stations and territories.
Frequent YouTube users under 29 have higher levels of anxiety and depression, according to a study. Neutral or positive online relationships between creators and followers can also occur, but these can exacerbate issues when replaced for face-to-face interactions.
Humpback whales use sandy bays to remove dead skin cells and barnacles through 'sand rolling' behavior. This exfoliation method helps maintain a healthy bacterial skin community, reducing drag and energy loss.
Researchers have discovered that peer support following a suicide attempt can significantly reduce risk and improve outcomes for individuals with complex needs. The PAUSE program, which incorporates holistic and responsive support, has been shown to be an effective model for supporting people after hospitalizations.
Researchers found that dairy pastoralism began on the highland plateau by about 3500 years ago, supported by palaeoproteomic analysis of ancient milk proteins. This early adoption enabled expansion into the region's vast, non-arable highlands, facilitating long-term human occupation.
The study found that ME/CFS patients have a significantly larger brainstem compared to those without the condition. Smaller midbrain volumes were associated with more severe breathing difficulties in ME/CFS patients. The research suggests that brainstem dysfunction may contribute to neurological and cardiorespiratory symptoms.
Researchers used cumulative pressure mapping and machine learning to understand the impact of human pressures on six vector-borne diseases. They found that changes in land use can lead to abrupt shifts in infectious disease burdens and public health needs.
Researchers found that girls generally fared better than boys in terms of wellbeing, but boys tended to improve when returning to school. The study also showed that children with lower family support scores suffered more from the lockdowns.
A new study found that future incidents of simultaneous climate extremes will be exacerbated by human-driven climate change, with the strongest increases in tropical regions. Increasing concurrent temperature extremes will weaken tropical ecosystems' ability to act as carbon sinks, amplifying global climate change.
A new study published in PLOS ONE found that weight loss surgery significantly improved health outcomes for people with type 2 diabetes and morbid obesity. After 12 months, patients experienced a 24% decrease in body weight and a 24% improvement in blood glucose levels.
A world-first model highlights favourable routes for Neanderthals and modern humans to expand eastwards into Asia during humid periods. The research identifies two pathways, one through the Alborz and Kopet Dagh Mountains and another along the Zagros Mountains towards Pakistan and Afghanistan.
A study found that nearly half of under-25 couchsurfers identified as queer, with poor mental health and psychological distress common among this group. Sexual exchange, including labor, was a significant concern, particularly for bisexual and queer women.
Researchers at Griffith University have identified Streptolysin O (SLO) as a crucial factor in the severity of Strep A infections. The study found that SLO alters host cell interactions and increases Strep A viability, leading to more severe cases.
Researchers from Griffith University have shed light on a large species of ancient 'giant wombat' found in Queensland, which belonged to the modern-day wombat family. The discovery provides unprecedented insights into the biology and appearance of this previously little-known species, including its cranial sinuses and premaxillary spine.