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A Randomised Controlled Trial Of Enhanced Parenting Capacity To Improve Developmental Outcomes In Preterm Infants
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$1,045,141.00
Summary
In Australia there are 2, 600 very preterm survivors each year. 50% will have education/behavioural difficulties and 10% major disability. We aim to optimise the development of infants born very preterm through a tailored Positive Parenting Program. We predict reductions in child behavioural and emotional problems at 2 years corrected age.
Motor problems, ranging from clumsiness to cerebral palsy, are one of the most common adverse outcomes in children born early. This study will investigate the motor development of children born <30 weeks’ gestation compared with peers born at term from birth to 5 years. We will determine whether early clinical evaluations or neuroimaging in the newborn period can predict later motor impairment at 5 years to be able to identify those who will benefit most from early intervention.
Optimising Non-invasive Ventilation At Birth For Preterm Infants
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$735,912.00
Summary
Infants born very premature require respiratory support at birth to make the transition to newborn life. As these infants are very immature and prone to injury, modern respiratory care strategies utilise the least invasive approaches mainly applied using a facemask. However, we have discovered that the larynx is closed at birth and thereby prevents air from entering the lung. This application is focussed on optimising the efficiency of facemask ventilation at birth and stimulating breathing.
Neuroprotective Role Of Sulphate Among Preterm Babies (SuPreme Study)
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$749,338.00
Summary
Magnesium sulphate administered to mothers shortly before preterm birth, reduces the risk of cerebral palsy. The mechanism of its neuroprotective effect is unknown, and our studies suggest sulphate is the protective element. Preterm babies rapidly become sulphate deficient, and magnesium sulphate mitigates this deficiency in most infants. In this study we will investigate whether low blood sulphate levels at 1 week of age correlate with cerebral palsy.
Mental Health Across Generations: Pre-and Post Conception Predicators Of Early Life Risks
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$666,231.00
Summary
In 2003, mental illnesses were among the ten leading causes of disease burden in Australia, accounting for 13% of the total burden of disease, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Mental health problems and mental illness are among the greatest causes of disability, diminished quality of life, and reduced productivity. People affected by mental health problems often have high levels of morbidity and mortality, experiencing poorer general health and higher rates of death f ....In 2003, mental illnesses were among the ten leading causes of disease burden in Australia, accounting for 13% of the total burden of disease, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Mental health problems and mental illness are among the greatest causes of disability, diminished quality of life, and reduced productivity. People affected by mental health problems often have high levels of morbidity and mortality, experiencing poorer general health and higher rates of death from a range of causes, including suicide. These conditions are significant in terms of prevalence and disease burden, and have far-reaching impacts for families, carers and others in the community. Mental health problems commonly cluster in families. However, few studies have previously been able to investigate the range of ways in which mental disorders may pass from one generation to another. Further, evidence suggests that influences that arise prior to conception may have major effects on early life risks such as development in utero, birth outcomes and early maternal infant bonding. Mental Health across Generations: Pre- and post-conception predictors of early life risks is a unique study that will examine antenatal maternal mental health and risk behaviours during pregnancy. The study will also examine the links between prior maternal mental health and later birth outcomes, and post natal maternal infant bonding. The risk processes to be tested will include genetic, epigenetic (changes in gene expression), physiological and psycho-social parameters.Read moreRead less
The Identification Of Thoracic Targets For Prevention And Intervention In Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$316,449.00
Summary
The persistence of breathing problems from infancy to later life is a complication of premature birth with lifelong consequences. Breathing problems often occur together with lung disease, but prematurity can also affect heart and blood vessel development, and weakness of the main breathing muscle. We will find out how much the heart, lungs and diaphragm contribute to breathing problems in babies; helping us to better predict, diagnose and treat severe breathing problems in babies born preterm.
This project will test if the ratio of the two different estrogens found in the blood of pregnant women is the critical factor in determining the onset of contractions in the uterus at labour. The studies will also determine the role of a newly discovered receptor for estrogens in allowing powerful contractions at labour. Results will allow development of new treatments to prevent premature birth that block the actions of estrogen at this new receptor or change the ratio of the two estrogens.
Good nutrition is a vital element in a healthy start to life. Determining the correct foods to ensure that pregnant women meet both their needs as well as those of their new baby can be very confusing. Do I need to take iron supplements? How can I ensure I get enough iodine? This project will develop new methods for evaluating the effects of nutrients and to pass that information on to health practitioners so that Australian mothers will be in no doubt about the best diet for them and their chil ....Good nutrition is a vital element in a healthy start to life. Determining the correct foods to ensure that pregnant women meet both their needs as well as those of their new baby can be very confusing. Do I need to take iron supplements? How can I ensure I get enough iodine? This project will develop new methods for evaluating the effects of nutrients and to pass that information on to health practitioners so that Australian mothers will be in no doubt about the best diet for them and their children.Read moreRead less
We aim to predict neurodevelopmental disability in babies born very preterm, earlier and more accurately than currently possible, by identifying structural and functional connectivity features that correlate with clinical measures of motor and neurodevelopmental functions. To do this we will use brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), dense array electroencephalography (EEG) and structured clinical neurodevelopmental assessments to provide a cutting edge view of the state of brain development.
Centre Of Research Excellence (CRE) In Newborn Medicine
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$2,622,320.00
Summary
Problems around birth are common and can have long-term implications, including into adulthood. Our goal is to improve health outcomes for all newborn babies and their families by determining factors that enhance outcome and assessing the benefits and consequences of new treatments for mothers and babies. We are world leaders in this field and are dedicated to training the next generation of health professionals in the care of newborn babies, in Australia and the rest of the world.