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Research

Acute rheumatic fever is an autoimmune disorder resulting from Group A Streptococcus pharyngitis or impetigo in children and adolescents, which may evolve to rheumatic heart disease (RHD) with persistent cardiac valve damage. RHD causes substantial mortality and morbidity globally, predominantly among socioeconomically disadvantaged populations, with an interplay of social determinants of health and genetic factors determining overall risk.

Research

We compared the effect of a heterologous wP/aP/aP primary series (hereafter mixed wP/aP) versus a homologous aP/aP/aP primary schedule (hereafter aP-only) on antibody responses to co-administered vaccine antigens in infants and toddlers.

Research

This study aimed to characterise bacteriophages for potential therapeutic use against Staphylococcus aureus, focusing on clinical respiratory isolates of methicillin-sensitive (MSSA) and methicillin-resistant (MRSA) strains. Specifically, it sought to evaluate phage lytic activity, host range, stability, biofilm disruption capabilities, and overall safety for therapeutic use.

Research

Processed electroencephalography (EEG) indices used to guide anesthetic dosing in adults are not validated in young infants. Raw EEG can be processed mathematically, yielding quantitative EEG parameters (qEEG). We hypothesized that machine learning combined with qEEG can accurately classify expired sevoflurane concentrations in young infants. Knowledge from this may contribute to development of future infant-specific EEG algorithms.

Research

Azithromycin improves symptomology in various chronic airway diseases exacerbated by viral infections. However, the mechanisms underlying the apparent antiviral effects of azithromycin remain unclear.

Research

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women experience a disproportionate burden of hyperglycaemia in pregnancy. A multi-component health systems intervention aiming to improve antenatal and postpartum care was implemented across Australia’s Northern Territory (NT) and Far North Queensland (FNQ) between 2016 and 2019. Components included clinician education, improving recall systems, enhancing policies and guidelines, and embedding Diabetes in Pregnancy (DIP) Clinical Registers in systems of care. This program was evaluated to determine impacts on clinical practice and maternal health.

Research

The prevalence of taeniasis in Thailand has decreased over the past six decades. However, it remains a public health concern, particularly in focal areas, especially along the border regions where migration between Thailand and neighboring endemic countries is frequent. Spatial distribution analysis provides a useful method for identifying high-risk areas and implementing targeted integrated control measures. This study aimed to examine the spatial patterns of taeniasis in 2008 and 2014, along with their associated One Health risk factors at the sub-district level.

Research

Adolescents living with type 1 diabetes (T1D) are faced with unique challenges to nutrition management. The current Perth Children's Hospital (PCH) T1D management model includes individualised education at diagnosis and annual reviews. Currently, no group education is provided to develop self-management skills for healthy meal preparation. Teaching Kitchens offers a skills-based program in food literacy and nutrition. This feasibility study explored if a Teaching Kitchens program at PCH engaged adolescents aged between 13 and 17 years, living with T1D.

Research

Diabetes camps for children and adolescents living with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) offer an important opportunity to foster self-efficacy and 'common humanity', a sense that they are not alone in their challenges. The current study primarily aimed to assess whether psychological wellbeing, diabetes self care behaviours and HbA1c improved amongst campers and their caregivers, and whether these would be sustained at 3- and 6-months.

A diet and lifestyle mobile app targeting a critical window in early pregnancy is being introduced to women in the northern suburbs of Perth, hoping to assist with breaking the ‘transmission’ of obesity from one generation to the next.