An Australian Face-Space for enhancing human identification in forensics and security. Safeguarding Australia from terrorism and crime requires accurate identification of suspects and offenders. Current methods rely heavily on photographs and video images. A new 3D imaging system for comparing faces has been developed but the information about Australian faces needs to be added to provide robust evidence to Australian courts.
Mathematical modelling can provide vital information on the effectiveness and practical implementation of microbicides and vaccines against HIV. This project will produce mathematical models of the earliest stages of HIV infection suitable for investigation of the implementation of vaccines and microbicides. It will provide a framework to investigate why these interventions have performed poorly to date, and how these may be better implemented.
Modelling and estimation techniques for the transmission and control of Tuberculosis with new and existing vaccines. Most Tuberculosis in Australia is seen in foreign-born people. Australia has an important role in providing leadership in the Asia-Pacific region in Tuberculosis control, which will have flow-on benefits to TB control in this country. Using mathematical models, this project will assess the use of vaccines for Tuberculosis in the developing world. Rising levels of extremely drug r ....Modelling and estimation techniques for the transmission and control of Tuberculosis with new and existing vaccines. Most Tuberculosis in Australia is seen in foreign-born people. Australia has an important role in providing leadership in the Asia-Pacific region in Tuberculosis control, which will have flow-on benefits to TB control in this country. Using mathematical models, this project will assess the use of vaccines for Tuberculosis in the developing world. Rising levels of extremely drug resistant infections make this a timely and important study with significant policy implications, both externally and in the Australian context. Read moreRead less
New mathematics of fractional diffusion for understanding cognitive impairment at the neuronal level. As Australia's population ages, cognitive impairment due to cortical ageing and neurodegeneration is looming as the nation's greatest health problem. The project will deliver new, more realistic, mathematical models for a mechanistic understanding of cognitive impairment at the neuronal level. This understanding is a vital first step in targeting drugs, e.g., to influence neuronal spine proper ....New mathematics of fractional diffusion for understanding cognitive impairment at the neuronal level. As Australia's population ages, cognitive impairment due to cortical ageing and neurodegeneration is looming as the nation's greatest health problem. The project will deliver new, more realistic, mathematical models for a mechanistic understanding of cognitive impairment at the neuronal level. This understanding is a vital first step in targeting drugs, e.g., to influence neuronal spine properties, for preventative health care. The project will maintain international collaborations, between applied mathematicians at UNSW, Sydney and biomathematicians and neuroscientists at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, providing ongoing training opportunities for Australian scientists in this cutting edge biomathematical research.Read moreRead less
Fluid mechanics and physiology of blockages in vascular systems. Vascular disease is a major health problem both in Australia and worldwide. In particular, cardiovascular disease is a major killer of adult Australians. Engineers and mathematicians working with biologists will gain a greater understanding of vascular diseases, a major health problem, including cardiovascular disease, which is one of the biggest killers worldwide, as well as tackling renal circulation problems, which are a signifi ....Fluid mechanics and physiology of blockages in vascular systems. Vascular disease is a major health problem both in Australia and worldwide. In particular, cardiovascular disease is a major killer of adult Australians. Engineers and mathematicians working with biologists will gain a greater understanding of vascular diseases, a major health problem, including cardiovascular disease, which is one of the biggest killers worldwide, as well as tackling renal circulation problems, which are a significant problem and may contribute to hypertension. Detailed measurement and prediction will be undertaken of the mechanical loading and response of cells to their microenvironment, an important first step to controlling pathological responses which lead to a variety of autoimmune problems.Read moreRead less
Real-time analysis of tumour-infiltrating T cells using novel analytical tools. By dynamic visualization of immune cells within intact tumours, we have shown that active screening for target cells optimises their anti-tumour effect. This project will develop novel mathematical/analytical tools to unravel the basic strategies that enable immune cells to position themselves at the right location at the right time.