Regulation Of Extrinsic Death Pathways In Neutrophils
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$84,656.00
Summary
During infection, the lifespan of neutrophils normally increases despite an abundance of neutrophil death signals in inflamed tissues. Altered lifespan of neutrophils has been reported in diseases associated with influenza, Streptococcus, RSV and cytomegalovirus infection. Our research has discovered a relationship between the two dominant death pathways in neutrophils, indicating that alterations in one death pathway protect the neutrophil from death signals from the second death pathway.
Through this project, I will determine how diet and physical activity can improve the health and quality of life of people suffering from chronic kidney disease. I will also assess whether lifestyle interventions have the potential to prevent chronic kidney disease. My results will directly impact the lives of people with kidney disease and could lead to public health interventions to prevent kidney disease.
Assessment Of Non-communicable Diseases And Associated Risks Among Indonesian Adolescents
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$128,224.00
Summary
Adolescents experience a significant burden of disease from preventable non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and several risk factors for later development of NCDs are potentially modifiable during adolescence. In Indonesia, limited data measuring NCD risk factors, prevalence and outcomes in adolescents contributes to a policy and practice gap. This study aims to explore the burden of NCDs experienced by Indonesian adolescents and examine opportunities for health system change.
Understanding The Interplay Between The Gut-kidney Axis In People With Chronic Kidney Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$63,721.00
Summary
In chronic kidney disease (CKD), uremic toxins are believed to alter the biochemical setting, causing trouble in gut microbiota and intestinal barrier. 30% of transplant recipients experience gastrointestinal (GI) intolerance. We aim to understand the role of gut microbial biomarkers, food, and probiotics, for predicting progression of CKD; describe patient experiences; and discover the relationship between GI symptoms, faecal microbial diversity, and bacteria in kidney transplant and dialysis.
Improving Long-term Mortality Rates Following Sepsis.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$99,682.00
Summary
It is estimated that 37.9 million patients survive sepsis each year. Studies have demonstrated that among patients who survive for 30 days after admission for sepsis, over 40% die in the following two years. There are currently no guidelines that provide recommendations on post-hospital management of sepsis. This research programme aims to identify those patients at greatest risk of death and implement post-sepsis care with the aim to significantly reduce long-term mortality after sepsis.
The Effect Of Androgen Replacement Therapy On Bone And Muscle Health In Men With Chronic Kidney Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$122,714.00
Summary
Low testosterone (T) levels are common in men with poor kidney function. Low T is known to cause reduced energy, decreased strength and low libido. Normal T is also needed for healthy bones and muscles. Men with kidney disease are already at risk of fractures, poor strength and quality of life. However, there are few studies that look at replacing T to men with kidney failure. We will investigate how low T affects bone and muscle and assess how giving T can benefit bone, muscle and function.
Understanding The Brain In The Transition From Acute To Chronic Low Back Pain
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$107,049.00
Summary
A critical question in treating low back pain (LBP) is why some people get better after hurting their back while others do not. Physiological mechanisms, such as brain plasticity and central sensitisation, are believed to underpin the transition to persistent pain. This is the first study to evaluate these mechanisms longitudinally and their relationship with LBP outcomes. The result of this research will provide better understanding of pain mechanisms of LBP and assist to develop novel therapy.
Self-compassion: Promoting Resilience And Wellbeing In Adolescent Populations
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$68,946.00
Summary
The importance of targeting early symptoms of poor mental health in adolescence cannot be underestimated. Self-compassion is linked with psychological wellbeing and may serve as a protective mechanism against psychopathological trajectories. I will investigate self-compassion in adolescence, and develop two early-intervention programs; for a high-school and a chronic illness population. To investigate this, my PhD will involve 2 empirical studies, meta-analysis, and 2 intervention studies.
Early Origins Study Of Cystic Fibrosis-related Diabetes
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$128,188.00
Summary
Cystic Fibrosis is a genetic condition that causes recurrent lung infections and early death. Some patients also develop diabetes which causes a more rapid decline. Many young children with CF have “pre-diabetes” but guidelines do not recommend screening high glucose in this group. In order to intervene early, this study aims to determine if “pre-diabetes” in very young children with Cystic Fibrosis causes poorer growth, lung function or an increase in bacterial infections to.