Search
Research
Benchmarking Imputed Low Coverage Genomes in a Human Population Genetics ContextOngoing advances in population genomic methodologies have recently enabled the study of millions of loci across hundreds of genomes at a relatively low cost, by leveraging a combination of low-coverage shotgun sequencing and innovative genotype imputation methods. This approach has the potential to provide abundant genotype information at low costs comparable to another widely used cost-effective genotyping approach-that is, SNP panels-while avoiding potential issues related to loci being ascertained in distantly related populations.
Research
A modular approach to forecasting COVID-19 hospital bed occupancyMonitoring the number of COVID-19 patients in hospital beds was a critical component of Australia's real-time surveillance strategy for the disease. From 2021 to 2023, we produced short-term forecasts of bed occupancy to support public health decision-making.
Research
Rewiring endogenous genes in CAR T cells for tumour-restricted payload deliveryThe efficacy of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy in solid tumours is limited by immunosuppression and antigen heterogeneity. To overcome these barriers, 'armoured' CAR T cells, which secrete proinflammatory cytokines, have been developed. However, their clinical application has been limited because of toxicity related to peripheral expression of the armouring transgene.
Research
The mitophagy receptors BNIP3 and NIX mediate tight attachment and expansion of the isolation membrane to mitochondriaBNIP3 and NIX are the main receptors for mitophagy, but their mechanisms of action remain elusive. Here, we used correlative light EM (CLEM) and electron tomography to reveal the tight attachment of isolation membranes (IMs) to mitochondrial protrusions, often connected with ER via thin tubular and/or linear structures.
Research
The usability and feasibility of a self-compassion chatbot (COMPASS) for youth living with type 1 diabetesAlthough it is well established that youth with type 1 Diabetes (T1D) experience high rates of distress, current clinical care is often under-resourced and unable to provide sufficient or timely psychological support. The current study was designed to evaluate the safety, usability and feasibility of 'COMPASS,' a self-compassion chatbot intervention.
Research
Current gaps in knowledge and future research directions for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children with cancerPaediatric cancer is the leading cause of disease-related death in Australian children. Limited research focuses on cancer in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. Although there appears to be a lower incidence of cancer overall in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children compared with non-Indigenous children, a high proportion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children are diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia.
Research
The Platform Trial In COVID-19 Priming and BOOsting (PICOBOO): The immunogenicity, reactogenicity, and safety of different COVID-19 vaccinations administered as a second boosterPICOBOO is a randomised, adaptive trial evaluating the immunogenicity, reactogenicity, and safety of COVID-19 booster strategies. We report data for second boosters among individuals 50-<70 years old primed with AZD1222 (50-<70y-AZD1222) until Day 84.
Research
NEARER SCAN (LENO BESIK) evaluation of a task-sharing echocardiographic active case finding programme for rheumatic heart disease in Australia and Timor-LesteRheumatic heart disease (RHD) is underdiagnosed globally resulting in missed treatment opportunities and adverse clinical outcomes. We describe the protocol for a study which aims to co-design, implement and conduct an evaluation of a task-sharing approach to echocardiographic active case finding for early detection and management of RHD in high-risk settings in Australia and Timor-Leste.
Research
Pandemic preparedness needs for children with rare diseases and their families: A perspective of COVID-19 experiencesPeople living with rare diseases had a high risk of negative health outcomes due to COVID-19. Pandemic preparedness will ensure best practice procedures and optimal outcomes during future pandemic events. This paper sought to understand the needs of children with rare diseases during the COVID-19 pandemic to inform preparation for future pandemic and disaster events. First, impacts and outcomes from the COVID-19 pandemic on people living with rare disease were identified in the literature.
Research
Functional outcomes in children and adolescents with neurodisability accessing music therapy: A scoping reviewTo determine the evidence for functional outcomes experienced by a population with paediatric neurodisability (such as acquired brain injury, cerebral palsy, spinal cord injury, and other neurological disorders), who access music therapy through neurorehabilitation services across the rehabilitation spectrum.